| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 3, 2023 |

Corteva, Bayer, Supply Majority Corn, Cotton and Soybean Seeds Two companies—Corteva and Bayer—provided more than half the U.S. retail seed sales of corn, soybeans, and cotton in 2018–20, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. In recent decades, the U.S. crop seed industry has become more concentrated, with fewer and larger firms dominating seed supply. Today, four firms—Bayer, Corteva, ChemChina’s Syngenta Group, and BASF—control the majority of crop seed and agricultural chemical sales. In 2015, six firms led global markets for seeds and agricultural chemicals. The concentration can be traced to the expansion of intellectual property rights to private companies for seed improvements in the 1970s and 1980s. As biotechnology advanced, companies created genetically modified seed varieties, such as herbicide-tolerant or insect-resistant corn, soybeans, and cotton. Mergers occurred between companies that produced and sold pesticides, seed treatments, crop seeds, and seed traits. As a result, the U.S. crop seed sector has become highly integrated with agricultural chemicals and more concentrated. *********************************************************************************** Farm Real Estate Market Holding Steady As combines roll into fields this fall, there is a renewed sense of optimism when looking at the real estate market. The current state of the ag land market is resilient, and the demand for high-quality farmland remains strong in the face of higher interest rates and lower commodity prices, according to Farmers National Company. However, the market will likely return to a more normal flow, evidenced by the slowdown of the appreciation rate of ag land, as well as the sales volume at Farmers National Company. Regional drought pressure across portions of the Corn Belt have also softened short-term demand for land. Areas highly impacted by the drought have seen seasonal pressure, with the lowest-quality farms impacted the most, while demand for higher-quality land has remained stable. The solid demand for ag properties from people interested in expanding their farm operations or investment opportunities seems to be driving the interest in high-quality cropland. *********************************************************************************** USDA Restricts Poultry Imports from France, EU The Department of Agriculture recently placed restrictions on the importation of poultry from France and the European Union. The restrictions, enacted by USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, include live ducks, duck eggs, and unmitigated or untreated duck products from the APHIS-recognized European Poultry Trade Region, as well as Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, but excluding Great Britain. The restrictions are due to increased risk of introducing Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza into the United States and were enacted October first. The restrictions are based on the World Organization for Animal Health's definition of poultry and result from France's decision to vaccinate commercial meat ducks against HPAI. France’s decision to vaccinate presents a risk of introducing HPAI into the United States. The United States does not currently allow the import of poultry from countries affected with HPAI or from flocks that have been vaccinated by HPAI. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Margin Coverage Provides Critical Support for Dairy Operations The August milk margin triggered the eighth consecutive payment for dairy producers who obtained Dairy Margin Coverage for the 2023 program year. August's income over feed margin is $6.46 per hundredweight, with projected DMC payments totaling $120 million. To date, including the projected August payments, dairy producers have received more than $1.2 billion in much-needed economic support for 2023, and margin forecasts indicate the likelihood of more to come before the end of the calendar year. USDA Farm Service Agency Administrator Zack Ducheneaux says, "While livestock and crop producers alike have been financially impacted by catastrophic natural disaster events, dairy producers' financial stressors have been compounded by significant market volatilities." DMC is a voluntary risk management program administered by USDA's Farm Service Agency that offers protection to dairy producers when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed price (the margin) falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer.   *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Weaned Calf Risk Protection USDA recently announced Weaned Calf Risk Protection, a new insurance option for livestock producers in several states. This policy, offered by USDA's Risk Management Agency, offers Actual Production History coverage for beef cow-calf producers to ensure revenue from their spring calving operations. Weaned Calf Risk Protection will be available for the 2024 crop year. The policies insure producers against yield losses due to natural causes such as drought, excessive moisture, hail, wind, frost, insects, and disease. Coverage is provided for a decline in price and loss of yield due to a decrease of overall weaning weight, like revenue coverage offered for other crops. The program will be available in Colorado, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Texas, beginning with the January 31, 2024, sales closing date for the 2024 crop year. Coverage levels between 50 and 85 percent will be available, along with catastrophic coverage. Interested producers should contact their local RMA office. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Fuel Prices Decline Again For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline fell, posting a decline of 3.5 cents from a week ago to $3.77 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average is up 2.8 cents from a month ago and 1.0 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 0.7 cents last week and is $4.52 per gallon, 36.2 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "we're likely to see nearly the entire country see gasoline prices trend lower in the week ahead." After bouncing around near and above $90 for the last few weeks, oil has not maintained its upward trend as renewed fears about further interest rate hikes lower demand prospects in the months ahead. Meanwhile, OPEC+ plans to hold the line on its current production levels at a key meeting this week.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday October 3, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports due out Tuesday. Traders will continue to watch over the latest weather forecasts, harvest anecdotes and any news out of Ukraine. Weather A frontal boundary is moving into and through the Plains Tuesday, creating areas of showers and thunderstorms from north to south. Showers will move into the western Midwest overnight. A significant drop in temperatures will occur behind the front, but it continues to feel like summer ahead of it.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 2, 2023 |

Corn and Soybean Ending Stocks Lower in 2023 The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released its Grain Stocks report that showed lower numbers for corn and soybeans. Old crop corn stocks on hand as of September 1 totaled 1.36 billion bushels, one percent lower than the same time last year. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions were down two percent from September 1, 2022, and all wheat stocks were up slightly from a year earlier. Of the total corn stocks, 605 million bushels were stored on farms, 19 percent higher than last year. Old crop soybeans stored in all positions on September 1, 2023, totaled 268 million bushels, two percent lower than last year. Soybean stocks stored on farms totaled 72 million bushels, up 14 percent from a year ago. All wheat stored in all positions on September 1 totaled 1.78 billion bushels, up slightly from September 1, 2022. On-farm stocks were one percent higher than in 2022. *********************************************************************************** USDA Issues 2023 Small Grains Summary All wheat production totaled 1.81 billion bushels in 2023, up ten percent from last year’s total of 1.65 billion bushels. The harvested area totaled 37.3 million acres, up five percent from the previous year. The U.S. yield was estimated at 48.6 bushels an acre, 2.1 bushels higher than in the prior year. The levels of production and changes from 2022 by type were winter wheat, at 1.25 billion bushels, was up 13 percent from last year. Other spring wheat totaled 505 million bushels, up five percent, and Durum wheat production hit 59.3 million bushels, seven percent lower than the previous year. Oat production was estimated at 57 million bushels, one percent lower than 2022 totals. USDA estimated the yield at 68.6 bushels an acre, 3.8 bushels higher than the previous year. Barley production hit 185 million bushels; six percent higher than in 2022, and yield was 72.4 bushels an acre. *********************************************************************************** Drought Monitor Shows Improvements After Rainfall Western parts of the Midwest were inundated with heavy rains while the eastern part received little to no moisture. Large areas in Minnesota and Wisconsin and parts of Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri all received two inches or more. Abnormal dryness and moderate to exceptional drought were reduced in these areas. Meanwhile, drought continued expanding over Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky, and in parts of Missouri, Michigan, and Illinois. Northern and eastern parts of the High Plains region received as much as two inches of rainfall, while parts of Wyoming and Kansas stayed dry. Drought conditions contracted in North and South Dakota and Nebraska. In the South, bands of heavy rain fell in eastern Oklahoma, western Arkansas, and the Louisiana and Texas borders with Arkansas, with some amounts topping five inches of rain. But the western half of Texas and Oklahoma, along with much of Mississippi and Tennessee received little to no rain. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Will Require Crop Insurance Transparency Looking for less secrecy in the Crop Insurance Program, representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Ralph Norman (R-SC) introduced the Crop Insurance Transparency Act. If passed, it would require USDA to publicly disclose the names of producers and insurers who receive federal crop insurance subsidies and the amount received. “At a time when federal crop insurance payments are at an all-time high, it is an abject failure that a majority of our small farmers and ranchers do not even have access to the crop insurance safety net,” says Blumenauer. “Reform begins with accurate and transparent information.” Norman adds that one-third of all crop insurance subsidies don’t make it to farmers, but instead go to massive insurance companies. “Millionaires and billionaires are likely receiving crop insurance subsidies at a time when most farmers are struggling to get by,” says Scott Faber of the Environmental Working Group. “It’s time to lift this veil of secrecy.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory Rises Slightly The U.S. inventory of all hogs and pigs on September 1, 2023, was 74.3 million head. That was slightly higher than September 1, 2022, and up two percent from June of this year. The breeding inventory was 6.08 million head, down one percent from last year and one percent from the previous quarter. The market hog inventory was 68.2 million head, slightly higher than last year and two percent higher than the previous quarter. The June-August pig crop was 34.2 million head, slightly higher than in 2022. Sows farrowing during the period totaled 2.95 million head, down four percent from 2022. U.S. hog producers intend to have 2.93 million sows farrow between September and November, down five percent from the actual farrowings during the same period a year earlier. Intended farrowings between December 2023 and February 2024 total 2.91 million sows, down one percent from the same period a year ago. *********************************************************************************** State Attorneys General Against the Eats Act A coalition of 16 State Attorneys General sent letters to Congressional leadership regarding the EATS Act. Sponsors of the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act have positioned the bill as a regulatory solution, but it will undermine states’ rights to regulate agriculture within their local jurisdictions and nullify numerous state and local laws that already exist. Those hundreds of laws that would be invalidated support family beef, dairy, egg, and pork producers, as well as hundreds of laws related to food safety and invasive pest control. The letter states that, “For over 200 years, state and local governments have been responsible for ensuring that there is a safe and healthy food supply for their consumers and that locally sold farm products are governed by locally accountable elected officials.” Groups like the Organization for Competitive Markets and Competitive Markets Action say the Act would up-end the crucial balance between state and federal authority.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 2, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Government Shutdown Avoided, Record-Breaking Heat May Turn to Frost Later in Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Oct. 1. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Grain trade reaction: How will traders respond to the weekend political moves to avoid government shutdown for now with a 45-day funding bill that President Joe Biden signed late Saturday? That will be a key focus for the week, starting with grain comments available to DTN subscribers Sunday night. 2. Weather messes with harvest: Some areas of the Corn Belt had record heat during the weekend. However, if you caught the Sept. 29 Ag Weather Forum, you know DTN's weather models all did an about-face mid-afternoon. That ushers in a strong cold front expected Oct. 3-6, which will produce showers and thunderstorms up and down the Plains to the Mississippi Valley. There may even be frost by the end of the week. I 3. Low rivers still an issue: Despite the potential for rains, we're continuing to track low river levels in the Mississippi Valley. 4. Digging into the details: DTN's Clayton will dig deeper into what was decided by the government during the weekend and assess what are the consequences. What is being funded, what still hasn't been decided, and what will this mean for farmers and ranchers? 5. Reports this week: Here's what is tentatively expected to come out this week, based on the government shutdown being avoided. We'll update if we hear more. Monday, International manufacturing indices reports trickle in overnight, joined by the U.S. report at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly grain export inspections hit at 10 a.m., followed by NASS Fats and Oil report at 2 p.m. and weekly Crop Progress at 3 p.m. On Tuesday, U.S. new home sales are released at 7:30 a.m., followed by U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Wednesday, we'll watch U.S. factory orders at 9 a.m., with the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. On Thursday USDA's weekly export sales are due at 7:30 a.m., as is weekly U.S. jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for August and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Friday we hope to see the U.S. Labor Department reports on non-farm payrolls and the unemployment rate for September at 7:30 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday October 2, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the latest weather forecasts and have likely heard the deadline for a possible U.S. government shutdown has been moved to November 17. International reports of manufacturing indices will trickle in overnight and be joined by the U.S. report at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly grain export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by NASS's Fats and Oil report at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather Hot temperatures east of the Rockies will be near daily records in many locations. Some isolated showers may develop in the Plains, otherwise the country will be rather dry as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 29, 2023 |

USDA Sees Record Demand to Advance Clean Energy in Rural America The Department of Agriculture reports record demand for funding to advance affordable and reliable clean energy in rural America. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “The Inflation Reduction Act is driving investment in rural communities across the nation, particularly in places that for too long have been left out or left behind.” The Inflation Reduction Act made nearly $13 billion available to support clean energy infrastructure for rural America through USDA Rural Development programs. In May, USDA made $9.7 billion available under the New Empowering Rural America program for member-owned rural electric cooperatives, and received 157 proposals from nearly every state. Also in May, USDA made $1 billion available under Powering Affordable Clean Energy to fund new clean energy projects and energy storage in rural America. So far, USDA has received requests for more than $7.8 billion through letters of interest. USDA has also seen substantially more interest than funding available under the Inflation Reduction Act in USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. *********************************************************************************** Animal Rights Groups Welcomes Bill to End Milk Mandate Legislation introduced recently would give kids a nutritionally equivalent, plant-based milk option to cow’s milk in the National School Lunch Program. Welcomed by animal rights groups, the Addressing Digestive Distress in Stomachs of Our Youth Act requires public schools to offer a nutritionally equivalent soy milk option and allows USDA to reimburse schools for those purchases, just as it does for cow's milk. Animal Wellness Action President Wayne Pacelle says, “The federal government is overreaching by subsidizing and promoting milk beyond its natural appeal to consumers.” Under law, USDA provides a reimbursement of $1 billion for cow’s milk to public schools across the country, placing a carton of milk on every tray. Earlier this year, the National Milk Producers Federation responded, “The latest ploy among the vegan, animal rights and plant-based lobbies is to suddenly paint themselves as social justice crusaders, demanding that their nutritionally inferior products should now be treated as legitimate milk substitutes in federal nutrition programs.” *********************************************************************************** Federal Complaint Alleges Environmental Violations by eBay The Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Justice this week filed a complaint against eBay. The complaint alleges eBay allows the unlawful selling of pesticides, violating the Clean Air Act, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act, commonly known as FIFRA and the Toxic Substances Control Act. FIFRA prohibits the unlawful distribution or sale of unregistered, misbranded, and restricted-use pesticides, and authorizes EPA to issue Stop Sale, Use, or Removal Orders. The complaint also alleges that eBay has unlawfully distributed or sold at least 23,000 such products, and that some of those sales directly violate a stop sale order issued to eBay in 2020 and amended in 2021. Examples of these pesticides include a high-toxicity insecticide banned in the U.S., restricted-use pesticides that only certified applicators may apply, and products fraudulently claiming to protect users against SARS-CoV-2. The complaint also targets aftermarket parts that defeat motor vehicle emission controls. *********************************************************************************** 2022 Potato Production Down 3 Percent The Department of Agriculture this week released the 2022 Potatoes Summary. The report presents potato estimates of acreage, yield per acre, production, farm disposition, season average price, value, and utilization of sales, including processing for the 2022 season. All potato production in 2022 totaled 399 million hundred-weight, down three percent from the 2021 crop. Harvested area, at 911,400 acres, was down one percent from 2021. The average yield of 438 hundred-weight per acre was down six hundred-weight from the previous year. The value of all potatoes sold in 2022, at $4.80 billion, increased 23 percent from the previous year. The average price, at $12.90 per hundred-weight, was up $2.70 from 2021. The quantity of potatoes sold from the 2022 crop totaled 373 million hundred-weight, down three percent from 2021. Potatoes used for chips increased three percent, while frozen French fries utilization dropped one percent, and dehydrated potatoes fell seven percent. *********************************************************************************** Turkey Growers Increase Flock Size While U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai visited a North Carolina Turkey Farm to celebrate market access to India, USDA reported increased turkey production this week. The September USDA Turkey Raised report indicated a four percent increase from 2022. Turkeys Raised in the United States during 2023 is forecasted at 219 million this month. The top six states account for 68 percent of the turkeys produced in the United States during 2023. The largest turkey-producing state is Minnesota, at 39.0 million turkeys, up five percent from the previous year. North Carolina produced 29.0 million turkeys, up four percent from a year ago. Arkansas produced 27.5 million turkeys, up six percent from last year. Indiana produced 20.0 million turkeys, unchanged from last year. Missouri produced 18.0 million turkeys, up six percent from last year, and Virginia is up one percent from the previous year at 15.4 million turkeys. Turkeys raised preliminary estimates include young turkeys intended for meat production and breeder turkeys reaching maturity during the calendar year. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Lower Income Countries Spend More on Food Consumers in low-income countries spend a greater proportion of their budgets on food than those in higher-income countries, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. As incomes rise with economic development and urbanization, the share of income spent on food tends to fall, while discretionary spending on household goods, education, medical services, and recreation tends to increase. In low-income African and South Asian countries, spending on food accounted for more than 40 percent of total consumer expenditures in 2022. This contrasts with higher-income economies in Latin America, including Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico, where an average of about 22.5 percent of budgets was spent on food. In emerging markets such as Brazil, India, and China, where incomes are rising, the share of discretionary income spent on nonfood categories has increased. In higher-income economies, including the United States, Switzerland, Australia, and Canada, disposable incomes remain larger, and the food share of consumer expenditures is smaller than those in countries where urban communities are still expanding.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 29, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The Federal Reserve's favorite inflation indicator, the PCE index is due out at 7:30 a.m., the same time as reports on U.S. personal income and consumer spending. USDA's September 1 Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary are both due out at 11 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by DTN's webinar at 12:30 p.m. Weather A frontal boundary moved into the Northern Plains Thursday and will largely stall there into Minnesota for Friday. Pockets of scattered showers and thunderstorms will be possible in these areas. Some isolated showers may pop up farther south across the Plains as well. Temperatures south and east of the front will continue to climb higher.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 28, 2023 |

Americans Want Their Food Produced Domestically A new survey from the American Sugar Alliance shows American voters recognize the importance of agriculture. The poll says they want Congress to prioritize American farmers in the next farm bill, provide them with a strong and reliable safety net, and protect them from foreign businesses that could displace American farmers and workers and disrupt our national food supply. Almost two-thirds of the respondents in the survey say the nation’s food supply should be less dependent on foreign suppliers. The results cut across political parties and geographical regions. As far as where America should buy its sugar from, eight times as many voters preferred American-made sugar compared to those who preferred imported sugar. “Clearly, voters value domestic sugar production and don’t want to depend on foreign suppliers for an essential food ingredient,” says Cassie Blaedow, Chair of the American Sugar Alliance. Approximately 11,000 family farmers raise sugar beets and sugarcane. *********************************************************************************** USDA Will Begin Issuing $1.75 Billion in Emergency Relief The USDA began issuing more than $1.75 billion in emergency relief payments to eligible farmers and livestock producers. These much-needed payments are helping farmers and ranchers recover following natural disasters in 2020, 2021, and 2022. “USDA provides substantial economic support for America’s farmers and ranchers through its critical farm payments,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “These payments reflect the incredible and cumulative financial hits brought on by devastating natural disasters which agricultural producers nationwide have endured while fulfilling their commitment to produce our food, fiber, and fuel.” He also says the additional assistance offsets tremendous losses and is a valuable investment not only for farmers and ranchers but also for the economic success of rural and urban communities and our nation’s food security for generations to come. This week, the Farm Service Agency will issue more than $581 million in 2021 and 2022 drought and wildfire emergency relief to eligible ranchers. *********************************************************************************** Merck Awards Scholarships to Future Veterinarians Merck Animal Health announced it has awarded $90,000 in scholarships to 18 bovine veterinary students in partnership with the American Association of Bovine Practitioners. Scholarship recipients were selected based on their academic achievements, career goals, work experience, and interest in veterinary medicine. The scholarships were recently given out during the 2023 AABP Annual Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with each winner getting $5,000. “Merck Animal Health is proud to honor these veterinary students who represent the future of our field and the cattle industry,” says Justin Welsh, DVM and executive director of livestock technical services for Merck. Fred Gingrich, DVM and executive director of AABP, says he’s very excited about what the future holds for these outstanding students and the talents and skills they will bring to the veterinary profession as they embark on their careers. “We are incredibly grateful to Merck Animal Health for its continued partnership and support,” Gingrich says. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Helps Organic Producers Meet Growing Demand New legislation was introduced in both chambers of Congress to give organic producers the tools they need to increase their capacity, reach new markets, and grow their businesses. The Organic Market Development Act would codify and increase support for a newly announced USDA program that aims to solve supply chain gaps for the organic market through grants to farmers and businesses as demand increases for organic products. In 2021, U.S. sales of organic food products reached $52 billion, nearly doubling the sales done in 2010. Senate bill sponsor Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) says the legislation will build on the success of the Organic Market Development Grant Program and allow more producers to access these resources and tools to grow America’s agriculture economy. The legislation builds on the initial $75 million annual authorization by maintaining the base CCC investment and adds $25 million in appropriations for 2024 and each fiscal year thereafter. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Campaign Call for a Level Playing Field The National Corn Growers Association launched a grassroots advocacy campaign to encourage the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to provide a level playing field for biofuels like ethanol. The organization wants corn growers and advocates to make their voices heard by submitting comments to the agency. The campaign comes after NHTSA proposed hiking the Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standard, referred to as the CAFÉ Standard. It regulates how much fuel a vehicle consumes per mile. The agency’s current proposal would move the fleet average for small cars and light trucks from 44 to 58 miles per gallon by 2032. NCGA President Tom Haag says the proposal sets an unattainable goal and concerning precedent. “Auto manufacturers will be forced to overlook viable solutions in high-octane biofuels like corn ethanol to meet these standards,” Haag says. “This would minimize the role biofuels play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and saving consumers money.” *********************************************************************************** Missouri Farmland Sale Sets New Record A Missouri farmland auction broke the previous record set in Iowa as 115 acres of land sold for a record amount. The Missouri farmland sale smashed the previous record of $30,000 an acre set in Iowa. The bill of sale from Dyer and Fenner Auctioneers said the record sale happened last week in Saline County, Missouri. Two farmers got into a bidding war, and, in only 15 minutes, the 115 acres set the new record at $34,800 per acre. The buyer wasn’t an investor. The winning bid came from a farmer named Jeff Baxter from neighboring Carroll County, Missouri. Area farmers say the competing bidder was a farmer whose home farm touches the land that was up for sale. Farm Journal’s AgWeb says the bidding started at $15,000 an acre for the piece of ground that’s been in the same family for four generations, and the bids climbed very fast.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 28, 2023 |

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, an update of second-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's Hogs and Pigs report for September 1 is due out at 2 p.m. Weather An upper-level trough that has been meandering through the Midwest all week continues across eastern regions with areas of showers on Thursday. A new front has moved into the Northern Plains and will be the focus for areas of showers and thunderstorms going into next week. Above-normal temperatures continue to build where showers and clouds do not occur.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 27, 2023 |

USDA Expands Access to School Breakfast and Lunch The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced it is giving an estimated 3,000 more school districts in high-need areas the option to serve breakfast and lunch to all students at no cost. The expansion is possible through the Community Eligibility provision, commonly known as CEP. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the effort "Will decrease childhood hunger, improve child health and student readiness, and put our nation on the path to better nutrition and wellness." CEP is a simplified meal service option that allows schools to provide meals at no cost to all students without requiring families to apply for free and reduced-price meals. School districts receive federal funding based on a formula using existing data, and local or state funds must fill any gap between program costs and federal support. Previously, at least 40 percent of students had to live in households participating in federal assistance programs for a school or school district to be eligible for CEP. This final rule lowers that threshold from 40 percent to 25 percent. *********************************************************************************** Report: Organic Strawberries Bring Higher Prices New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows organic strawberries offer growers higher prices than conventional strawberries. Fresh strawberry prices tend to exhibit strong seasonal trends partly because of their relatively short shelf life. In the United States, grower prices for fresh organic strawberries move in tandem with conventional strawberry prices throughout the year while also typically running 40 to 50 percent higher than conventional prices—this difference is known as a price premium. In late fall and throughout winter, supply wanes even though demand remains robust. During this period, grower price premiums for organic strawberries rise above typical levels. From 2018–2022, the highest average price premium was in January, when organic strawberry prices were 74 to 88 percent higher than conventional strawberries. Price premiums in July averaged 18 to 24 percent. Since 2008, domestic organic strawberry acreage has tripled in California, which provides about 75 percent of U.S. organic strawberry production. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Seek Action on Wildland Firefighter Pay Reform A group of Senators called on Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to consider wildland firefighter pay reforms. Led by Colorado Democrat Michael Bennet, the lawmakers seek advancement of permanent, comprehensive pay reform for the country's wildland firefighters as temporary pay increases are set to end. Short-term pay increases for over 22,000 federal firefighters will run out this week unless Congress takes action. In a letter, the senators note the increasing threat posed by wildfires in the U.S. and issues that have contributed to firefighter recruitment and retention challenges in recent years – including low pay, unaffordable housing, and strain on their mental health. The lawmakers say, “Firefighters deserve fair pay, support for their mental and physical health, and time to recover from their dangerous work.” They conclude by urging Schumer to move forward on permanent, comprehensive pay reform in line with the President’s Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2024 and the Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection Act. *********************************************************************************** USDA Report Details Cold Storage Food Supply USDA’s September Cold Storage Report shows lower dairy and meat supplies and seasonally higher frozen fruit and vegetables. The report released this week shows total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on August 31, 2023, were down slightly from the previous month but up one percent from August 31, 2022. Butter stocks were down 12 percent from last month but up four percent from a year ago. Total frozen poultry supplies were down slightly from the previous month, but up one percent from a year ago, and total pounds of turkey in freezers were up two percent from last month. Frozen fruit stocks were up six percent from last month but down two percent from a year ago, while frozen vegetable stocks were up 18 percent from last month and five percent from a year ago. Finally, red meat supplies in freezers were up one percent from the previous month but down 15 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** USTR Visits North Carolina Turkey Farm U.S. Trade Representative Kathrine Tai visited a North Carolina Turkey Farm Tuesday, celebrating recent market access wins for U.S. agriculture in India. Tai joined North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper for a tour of North Carolina State University’s Talley Turkey Education Unit, and participated in a roundtable event with turkey producers. Earlier this month, the U.S. and India reduced tariffs on frozen turkey, frozen duck, fresh blueberries and cranberries, frozen blueberries and cranberries, dried blueberries and cranberries, and processed blueberries and cranberries. The effort will give North Carolina farmers and agriculture producers greater opportunity to reach India’s large, untapped market for turkey exports. North Carolina is one of the United States’ largest exporters of turkey, accounting for about ten percent of U.S. turkey exports to the world each year. From 2017 through 2022, North Carolina averaged $50 million in annual exports of turkey products to the world. From 2017 through 2022, the U.S. exported over $3.1 billion of turkey to the world. *********************************************************************************** NOAA Providing Funding for Tribal Lands Drought Resiliency The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration this week announced funding to support drought resilience on tribal lands. NOAA is providing the funding to support projects that will help tribal nations address current and future drought risk. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo says, “Enhancing drought resilience with tribal partners in the West is a crucial step in building a Climate-Ready Nation.” Proposals may request funding of up to $700,000 total to be disseminated in the first year and expended over three years in the form of cooperative agreements. A total of 3-5 projects may be funded depending on the project budget requested. Applications should be developed by or in full partnership with tribal nations to fund the implementation of activities that address current and future drought risk in the context of a changing climate on tribal lands across the Western U.S. The NOAA Climate Program Office’s National Integrated Drought Information System anticipates a funding allocation of approximately $2 million, pending the availability of funds in Fiscal Year 2024.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 27, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report of U.S. durable goods orders is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Traders continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and any news from the Black Sea region. Weather An upper-level low pressure system continues to meander slowly through the Eastern Corn Belt Wednesday, with areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms. Some pockets of heavy rain have developed in the rainfall over the last few days, which continues Wednesday as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 26, 2023 |

Bill Introduced to Protect Farmland Used for Renewable Energy Senators Tammy Baldwin and Chuck Grassley Monday introduced the Protecting Future Farmland Act. The new legislation supports farmers’ land stewardship efforts as many choose to deploy solar energy on their land. The legislation will ensure that federal investment in rural energy projects prioritizes both land stewardship and responsible deployment of renewable energy to protect America’s farmlands for future cultivation. Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, says, “we need to support our farmers’ land stewardship efforts and help them protect the farmland that is critical to the future of our rural economies and national food security.” Grassley, an Iowa Republican, adds, “We must be certain that embracing solar doesn’t damage our most valuable commodity: our rich Iowa soil.” Agricultural landowners are increasingly interested in using their land for solar energy production. About 83 percent of new solar projects are installed on farmland and ranchland, with almost 50 percent placed on the most productive, versatile, and resilient land. *********************************************************************************** Legislation to Boost Oversight of Foreign Ag Purchases Advances The U.S. House Committee on Financial Services Last week advanced a bill supported by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association that strengthens oversight of foreign agricultural purchases. Introduced by Representative Frank Lucas, an Oklahoma Republican, the Agricultural Security Risk Review Act would add the Secretary of Agriculture as a member of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States. The committee reviews the national security impact of foreign investments in the United States. NCBA’s Kent Bacus says the effort “Would provide a critical voice for American farmers and ranchers, and ensure that the federal government does not overlook agriculture's role in national security." The Secretary of the Treasury chairs the committee with members from the Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Commerce, Department of Defense, Department of State, Department of Energy, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and Office of Science and Technology Policy. The legislation passed in committee and now goes to the full House of Representatives for consideration. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Group Applauds Hawley’s Anti-Monopoly Bill Senator Josh Hawley last week introduced the Strengthening Antitrust Enforcement for Meatpacking Act. The Missouri Republican’s bill would empower antitrust enforcers to break up giant meatpacking and poultry monopolies. R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard said his group “applauds Senator Hawley’s novel approach to addressing the untenable market concentrations faced by America’s cattle and sheep producers.” The bill would establish two thresholds for determining the market concentration in the meatpacking industry. Using the Herfindahl-Hirschman Index, or HHI, which is a measure of market concentration presently employed by the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission, the bill would prohibit a merger or acquisition by a meatpacker if the HHI would exceed 1,800, or if a proposed merger or acquisition would increase the meatpacker’s current HHI Index by 100. The current guidelines consider an HHI below 1,500 to be unconcentrated, an HHI between 1,500 and 2,500 to be moderately concentrated, and an HHI above 2,500 to be a highly concentrated market. The Hawley bill would prohibit mergers currently considered moderately concentrated. *********************************************************************************** USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission Delegation Arrives in Chile A U.S. agribusiness delegation arrived in Santiago, Chile, Monday, led by USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis M. Taylor. The delegation includes representatives from the U.S. food and agriculture sectors and state departments of agriculture. Taylor says, “Customers in Chile are especially interested in U.S. consumer-oriented products, such as dairy, beef, poultry, pork, condiments and distilled spirits, providing U.S. exporters with many new and exciting opportunities.” While in Santiago, the members of the delegation are looking to establish business relationships and explore opportunities for U.S. agricultural exports to the region. Buyers from Chile, as well as from neighboring Ecuador and Peru, have been invited to participate and meet with U.S. exporters. In addition, this trade mission will allow participants to learn about production and marketing practices throughout South America. Chile is among the top three markets in South America for U.S. agricultural and related products, and the second-largest market in South America for consumer-oriented agricultural products. *********************************************************************************** K-State Launches Next-Gen Institute for Digital Agriculture Kansas State University is setting the stage as a national leader in digital agriculture with the launch of the interdisciplinary Institute for Digital Agriculture and Advanced Analytics. The institute is a people-centered interdisciplinary collective transforming learning, research and outreach around digital technologies and advanced analytical methods to enhance agriculture. Work done at the institute will include developing and integrating analytical methods and digital technologies -- like sensors, automation and robots -- that enhance food production and inform decision making for sustainable and resilient systems. K-State President Richard Linton says, “Kansas State University is working across disciplines to solve global agricultural problems and build the economic prosperity of Kansas and one of our state's key industries." The culmination of this collaborative effort will ensure that K-State is positioned as a leader in digital agriculture with an effective foundation to develop programs that sustain the long-term competitiveness of agriculture in Kansas. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Diesel and Gas Prices Decline For the first time in two weeks, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 3.1 cents from a week ago to $3.80 per. The national average is up 1.3 cents from a month ago and 13.6 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price decreased 1.4 cents last week and stands at $4.53 per gallon, 38.0 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "It's been a mostly quiet week for the national average price of gasoline," but adds, "New and continued refinery issues in some regions have had an oversized effect on gas prices in some states, especially in Southern California, Arizona, and Nevada." With some worry over the Fed's statements last week hinting that more interest rate hikes could be coming, oil prices saw some profit-taking last week, falling after Jerome Powell's latest statements. Meanwhile, U.S. retail gasoline demand saw an increase of 2.4 percent last week, bouncing back after several poor readings.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 26, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by a report on U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest weather forecasts and scour contacts for harvest anecdotes. Weather An upper-level cutoff low continues to meander slowly through the Midwest Tuesday, producing scattered showers. Outside of some showers near the Gulf Coast and in the Mid-Atlantic, it should be dry east of the Rockies. A large trough continues to bring rainfall into the Pacific Northwest, which will slowly progress deeper into the country later in the week.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 25, 2023 |

Farmers Take EATS Act Opposition to Capitol Hill American farmers and ranchers were in Washington, D.C., September 17-22, to state their opposition to the EATS Act. The Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression Act was introduced by Representative Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS). Groups like the Organization for Competitive Markets, Competitive Markets Action, and several others said the act would nullify more than a thousand state and local agriculture laws. Those laws are in place to protect communities from a number of issues like invasive pests and livestock diseases. The absence of local regulations would create an environment in which foreign conglomerates could rapidly expand across all 50 states. “If EATS is included in the upcoming farm bill, it will mark the end of American family farming as we know it,” says Deborah Mills, a director with the Organization for Competitive Markets. The organizations also advocated for the inclusion of the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming Act. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grants to Help Solve Workforce Challenges Employers can begin applying for a pilot program designed to improve the resiliency of the food and agricultural supply chain by addressing workforce challenges faced by farmers and ranchers. The USDA and other federal agencies are announcing up to $65 million in grants available for the Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program. The program will help address workforce needs in agriculture, promote a safe and healthy working environment for farmworkers, and aims to support expanding lawful migration pathways for workers through expanding the H-2A Visa Program. “Our country is facing growing agriculture workforce challenges that jeopardize our farmers’ ability to be competitive, threaten the resiliency, abundance, and safety of our food system, and have repercussions for the overall economy,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The program will benefit producers and farmworkers.” Program applications must be received by November 28. More information about the application process is available at ams.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Pushes Back Against EPA Board The National Corn Growers Association pushed back against commentary made by a science advisory board with the Environmental Protection Agency. The Board questioned the effectiveness of ethanol in lowering greenhouse gas emissions. “There is no shortage of studies on the environmental benefits of corn ethanol,” NCGA CEO Neil Caskey told the advisory board members. “The Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory has conducted extensive research on the matter and concluded that corn ethanol has reduced greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. by 544 million metric tons from 2005-2019.” He also says the feedstock’s carbon intensity is 44 percent lower than that of petroleum gasoline. The testimony comes after the board provided commentary to the EPA administrator raising doubts about the effectiveness of ethanol. Caskey also responded to assertions that ethanol production impacts land use, noting that data shows as corn production has risen, land used to grow corn has not. *********************************************************************************** AFT Announces Farmers’ Market Celebration Contest Winners American Farmland Trust and the Farmers Market Coalition announced the winners of the 15th annual America’s Farmers Market Celebration. It’s an annual event honoring the role of farmers’ markets. More than 2,000 markets nationwide participated in the 2023 celebration with over ten million supporters engaged in voting. “America’s farmers markets serve communities across the nation, providing access to fresh, healthy food and building farmers’ opportunity,” says David Thayer, AFT’s director of marketing and digital outreach. “It’s a pleasure hosting the Celebration and witnessing the incredible national support for local food.” The first-place winner was the farmers’ market in North Tonawanda, New York, which was awarded $5,000. Since 2008, the celebration has highlighted the important role farmers’ markets play in American communities and the larger U.S. food system. Food markets are on the leading edge of educating consumers about where food comes from and reinforcing AFT’s message of No Farms, No Food. *********************************************************************************** Increasing Competition in Global Pork Trade A recent Rabobank report says competition between major exporters has intensified in the global pork trade, meaning the competitive landscape will continue shifting in the years ahead. Low-cost producers like Brazil and the U.S. will likely have an advantage, while Europe’s position is expected to weaken following increasing market and regulatory requirements concerning animal welfare and sustainability. Countries adopting effective disease mitigation strategies may secure a competitive edge as disease pressure looms over the pig sector. Meanwhile, global pork consumption is poised for growth until 2030, creating ongoing opportunities for global pork trade. Rabobank says disease pressure will continue creating challenges in the pork industry, though the impact will be contingent on trade policies and the success of mitigation efforts. Pork trade will persist despite China’s pork production rebounding to pre-ASF levels in 2022, achieving 95 percent self-sufficiency. The report also says despite disruptions, global pork consumption will grow through 2030. *********************************************************************************** World Grain Conference Brings Buyers and Sellers Together The U.S. Agricultural Cooperators Conference is a cornerstone buyers conference in Southeast Asia. The event is hosted by the U.S. Grains Council, the U.S. Soybean Export Council, and the U.S. Wheat Associates and has actively served the region for 20 years. This year’s event addressed the pressing global challenges of food security, sustainability, and innovation. “We continue to strive to keep this conference fresh and relevant,” says Caleb Wurth, USGC Southeast Asia and Oceania regional director. “We decided to bring an even more diverse group of customers to our member exporters than ever before, and broader Asian participation was well received by our customers.” ACC is an opportunity for the Council’s U.S. exporter members to market their products and engage with buyers from around the globe in one spot. Along with buyer delegations from the Southeast Asia region, the Council invited constituencies from China, South Korea, South Asia, and Taiwan.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 25, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Seed Selection, DC Dramas, Receding Rivers Lead News Coverage OMAHA (DTN) -- Fall is officially here, and with that we turn attention to ending fiscal years, grain reports and harvest news. Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Sept. 24. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Grain Stocks Friday: Grain markets will focus on Friday when the USDA Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary reports hit at 11 a.m. CDT. We'll have our normal immediate coverage, followed by commentary updates throughout the hour. DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will head up a live webinar on the reports at 12:30 p.m. 2. D.C. budget chaos: We continue to watch the fallout of the Congressional failure to put together a budget or a continuing resolution to keep government doors open. In addition to our news team's coverage, DTN subscribers can keep up with the latest news in their streaming AP News section and in our Ag News segments.. 3. Harvest break and rivers drop: The weekend's waves of rainfall should diminish early in the week as the current system slowly fades away to the east or south. Rain is largely too late to benefit summer crops and will delay early wheat harvest plans in some areas. Midwest rains will give some farmers a brief break for some in-season combine and harvest equipment maintenance and to finish seed orders. Dry soils will quickly suck up that moisture, though, meaning the rains won't hold up harvest for long. The past week's Drought Monitor Map update showed increasing dry conditions across most of the country, including wetter areas of East and South. We're watching how lack of inflow will affect the Ohio, Missouri and Mississippi river systems as fall transportation picks up. 4. Speaking of seed buying: We'll continue to post stories from the September Progressive Farmer issue featuring the latest on seeds and related technology. Watch for those in our Top Stories segments and blogs. 5.. Reports fill this week ... and then?: Government economic reports this week should flow as normal. Beyond Sept. 30, the chances are murkier as a government shutdown would cut the cord on such updates. Monday's market-influencing reports include USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. We'll watch for harvest progress of the past week and how much rains will slow that down. Tuesday sees U.S. new home sales report at 7:30 a.m. and a report on U.S. consumer confidence at 9 a.m. On Wednesday, we'll watch the U.S. durable goods orders, which hits at 7:30 a.m., and the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Thursday morning is a busy one, with USDA's weekly export sales report, the weekly U.S. jobless claims, an update of second-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor all hitting at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's Hogs and Pigs report for Sept. 1 is due out at 2 p.m. Then, Friday is the reveal of the Federal Reserve's favorite inflation indicator, the PCE index, at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. personal income and consumer spending reports hit at the same time, followed by USDA's Sept. 1 Grain Stocks and Small Grains Summary, which as noted above, are out 11 a.m. CDT.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 25, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking rainfall amounts and the latest weather forecasts. News from the Black Sea may also play a part as Ukraine appears to be getting bolder with its attacks. USDA's weekly grain export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A cutoff low from the weekend is stuck in the Midwest and will be producing some areas of showers Monday. Most places will see little or no rainfall, but a couple of lucky pockets could see some meaningful rain in and around Wisconsin.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 22, 2023 |

NPPC Past President Testifies on Reforming GSP National Pork Producers Council Past President Randy Spronk testified at a House subcommittee hearing on reforming the generalized system of preferences to safeguard American supply chains and combat China. The U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) provided duty-free treatment of goods exported to America from developing countries before expiring in 2020. “American pork producers support the renewal of GSP, a valuable program that will give U.S. trade negotiators another tool to persuade countries to eliminate trade restrictions on U.S. products,” Spronk said. In the past, the U.S. pork industry has utilized GSP to gain market access to countries like Argentina and India. “A renewal of GSP should include stronger enforcement mechanisms that provide U.S. trade negotiators with the tools to ensure countries are meeting their obligations,” Spronk adds. America’s pork industry shipped $7.68 billion worth of pork to more than 100 foreign countries in 2022, supporting approximately 155,000 U.S. jobs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Payments to Help Organic Dairy Producers The USDA is announcing a second round of payments for dairy producers through the Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program. The agency is providing an additional $5 million to help dairy producers mitigate market volatility, higher input and transportation costs, and unstable feed supply and prices that have created unique hardships in the organic dairy industry. The Farm Service Agency has already paid out $15 million in the first round of payments to eligible producers. “The program is critical to keeping small, organic dairies sustainable as they continue to weather a combination of challenges outside their control,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “In total, the Farm Service Agency is providing $20 million to give organic dairy producers additional economic support to stay in operation until markets return to more favorable conditions.” FSA accepted applications for assistance from May 24 to August 11. Eligible operations produce milk from cows, goats, and sheep. *********************************************************************************** NACD Applauds Establishment of the American Climate Corps The National Association of Conservation Districts applauds the establishment of the American Climate Corps. Developing the next generation of conservationists has been a top priority and a major outcome of NACD’s Climate Action Task Force. The government-wide American Climate Corps will provide for a robust and diverse recruitment pipeline that’s critical for the future success of conservation and climate programs. With 3,000 conservation districts across the U.S. and its territories, NACD can also provide valuable learning opportunities for participants. Conservation districts work with landowners and operators across rural and urban communities. “Opportunities to get ‘boots on the ground’ with conservation districts provides the next generation meaningful development opportunities and leadership roles within local communities,” says Kim LaFleur, NACD President. “These emerging leaders can benefit greatly from the decades of expertise that exist within conservation districts, empowering them to tackle challenges and deploy numerous innovative solutions through the locally-led delivery system.” *********************************************************************************** ASI Investigates Trade Case Against Lamb Imports The American Sheep Industry Association updated the status of a legal process initiated several months ago toward possibly filing a U.S. trade law violation by lamb importers. ASI Executive Director Peter Orwick offered an update as the association awaits the results of a preliminary investigation. “We are specifically looking for the estimate of trade case strength, which depends on two parts,” Orwick says. “One is injury to the industry – the entire industry, the sheep producers, the lamb feeders, and the lamb companies. The second piece is the estimate of any violation, including dumping and subsidy margins, so the board can project an impact on American lamb returns should a case filing result in tariffs on imported lamb meat.” Pursuing a trade case against lamb import countries would cost a minimum of $1.3 million in legal expenses alone and require almost a year to see the case through to the end. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Union Supports Right to Repair Bill The Agricultural Right to Repair Act was introduced in both the House and Senate, and the legislation is strongly supported by the National Farmers Union. NFU President Rob Larew says the Right to Repair Act is an important step in the fight to ensure farmers across the country have fair and affordable access to the parts, tools, and information they need to fix farm equipment. “I want to thank the officials who introduced the bill to guarantee farmers the Right to Repair their equipment,” he says. “NFU stands ready to help push this bill forward.” Right to Repair is a pillar of NFU’s Fairness for Farmers campaign to address the monopoly crisis in agriculture. Just three manufacturers control the majority of farm equipment production, sales, and repairs, and use software locks to prevent farmers and independent mechanics from completing certain repairs. Right to Repair could save farmers $4.2 billion every year. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Groups Appreciate the American Farmers Feed the World Act U.S. Wheat Associates and the National Association of Wheat Growers thanked several lawmakers for introducing the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 in the Senate. The bipartisan legislation would restore the original intent of the Food for Peace program without spending additional farm bill resources. It also safeguards the interests of hard-working American farmers in providing food to those in need around the world. The wheat groups have joined the broader agriculture industry in backing the legislation. “The American Feed the World Act of 2023 offers an important rebalancing to ensure that Food for Peace remains focused on effectively delivering as much American-grown food to as many people in need as possible,” says USW Director of Trade Policy Peter Laudeman. “As Congress considers the new farm bill, this legislation provides an opportunity to revitalize the role of American agriculture in addressing global hunger,” says NAWG President Brent Cheyne.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 22, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's cattle on-feed report for September 1 will be out at 2 p.m. CDT Friday. Dow Jones' survey expects the on-feed total to be down 2.2% from a year ago and placements to be down 5.2% from a year ago. Traders will keep an eye on rainfall totals over the weekend and any changes in the forecasts. Weather A storm system in the Pacific Northwest is sending plenty of energy into the Plains to produce areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms in the middle of the country early Friday. Shower coverage should expand with time today, with the more consistent and heavier rains across the Northern Plains. Some severe weather will be possible, as will localized flooding.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 21, 2023 |

New Crop Insurance for Tropical Storms Benefits Producers Impacted by Idalia USDA's recent hurricane crop insurance policy expansion to cover tropical storms this year has already provided farmers $85.4 million to help them recover from Hurricane Idalia. USDA's Risk Management Agency rolled out the new Tropical Storm Option for its Hurricane Insurance Protection-Wind Index Endorsement earlier this year after working with farmers to improve coverage. Additionally, producers have received $84.8 million in indemnities for hurricane-related losses for a total of over $170 million in crop insurance payments that will directly help farmers and rural communities recover from Hurricane Idalia. This coverage was unavailable this time last year. RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger says, "I commend farmers and their organizations for reaching out to RMA to discuss new coverage, and our staff for promptly working on creative solutions to make this coverage a reality." Farmers do not need to file a claim to receive payment. If a county is triggered, then the Approved Insurance Provider will issue a payment in the coming weeks. *********************************************************************************** Stratovation to Launch Collaborative Specialty Crop Biologicals Study Stratovation Group is engineering a new study on how specialty-crop growers perceive agricultural biologicals for vegetable, leafy greens and fruit and nut crops. The new study, "Biologicals: Specialty Crop Growers' Perceptions, Values and Potential," will be conducted in collaboration with Western Growers, the Agricultural Retailers Association, DC Legislative and Regulatory Services, and The Fertilizer Institute. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, "This effort provides a unique opportunity to gather insights directly from growers, enabling our members to support their input needs effectively and drive sustainable innovation deeper into agriculture." The specialty crop effort will be a comprehensive market research effort focused on understanding farmer/grower opinions on the current use, issues and potential for biologicals, but specifically for vegetable, leafy greens and fruit and nut production at the farm level. The 2023 study will set benchmarks around the use of biologicals by specialty crop growers and provide a roadmap to companies seeking to grow and develop the market category. *********************************************************************************** Russian Wheat Exports Remain Biggest Risk to U.S. Elevators A modest rebound in U.S. wheat production and supplies is improving the outlook for profitability among grain elevators that store wheat. Futures market carries have improved for all three major classes of wheat, and the buy basis is widening following a bigger harvest. The larger harvest follows two years of poor production and a historic run of inverted futures markets that sapped profitability for storing wheat. However, according to CoBank, the major risk to elevators in the year ahead is a sharp rally in wheat prices. Wheat stocks among major exporters are historically tight, and any disruption to the flow of Russian exports through the Black Sea could trigger a sharp price run-up. CoBank economist Tanne Ehmke says, “The flood of cheap Russian wheat into the global market may have created a false sense of security in the world wheat market.” Russia is currently harvesting a near-record wheat crop with substantial carryover inventories from last year's record-sized harvest. *********************************************************************************** Oilseed Groups Urge Use of GREET Model for SAF Tax Incentives Oilseed groups delivered a letter this week to the Biden administration seeking support for investments made by U.S. companies and farmers who are ramping up production of sustainable aviation fuel. Using the GREET model will support investments by farmers, oilseed processors and domestic producers to meet the sustainable aviation fuel challenge, according to the groups. Clean Fuels Alliance America, the American Soybean Association, the National Oilseed Processors Association, and the U.S. Canola Association came together to make the request. The letter states, “Without this, our combined members and others in the industry may not be able to follow through on investments in sustainable aviation fuel production.” GREET is the Argonne National Laboratory’s Greenhouse Gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy Use in Transportation model. The letter asks the administration to consider the billions of dollars that members of the associations have made to build new or optimize existing production facilities and expand availability of sustainable, homegrown, low-carbon feedstocks like soybean oil and canola. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Efforts to Prevent and Reduce Food Waste The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced an additional $25 million investment to expand efforts to prevent and reduce food loss and waste. The investment, funded under the American Rescue Plan Act, is part of a joint agency initiative between USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and USDA’s Office of the Chief Economist. More than one-third of all available food goes uneaten through loss or waste. When food is tossed aside, so too are opportunities for improved food security, economic growth and environmental prosperity. The funding will support the Community Food Projects, Competitive Grants Program to reduce food loss and waste, get surplus wholesome food to individuals, and develop linkages between food producers, providers and food recovery organizations. Since 2017, NIFA has committed $123.5 million across 527 projects relating to food loss and waste. This latest investment will expand several of NIFA’s core programs by $25 million, and has awarded $4.3 million in fiscal year 2023. *********************************************************************************** Majority of U.S. Apples Used in Juices Apples are a fall staple, showing up in lunch boxes, pies, cobblers, crisps, and cider. However, new data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows a majority of apples are used in juices. In 2021, 45.9 pounds of apples per person were available for domestic consumption, according to USDA’s Food Availability data product. Fifty-two percent of the available apples for U.S. domestic use, 23.7 pounds per person, was in the form of juice or cider, or about two gallons per person. Fresh apples accounted for 34 percent, 15.8 pounds per person. Canned, frozen, dried, and other forms made up the remaining 14 percent of apple availability in 2021. Over the last ten years, per-person apple availability reached a high of 49.2 pounds per person in 2016. Much of the decrease since 2016 was because of declining availability of fresh apples. In 2016, fresh apple availability was 19.3 pounds per person.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 21, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales and leading indicators are set for 8 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Weather A system entering the Plains will produce areas of scattered showers throughout the day, some of which could be severe. Another disturbance is bringing showers to Illinois as well. Rains will be heavy enough to stop harvest for the next few days but will help to reduce the impact of the ongoing drought

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 20, 2023 |

AFBF: Dairy Make Allowances Reform a Must American Farm Bureau Federation economist Danny Munch presented testimony Tuesday at the ongoing Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula hearing. This is the third time an AFBF representative has testified at the hearing. The testimony focuses on adjusting make allowances, or the estimated costs that dairy processors incur to convert milk to consumable dairy products, like cheese and butter. This price directly impacts the price paid to farmers for their milk. AFBF is advocating for make allowances to be adjusted based on a mandatory, audited USDA survey, which USDA says it does not have the authority to conduct. AFBF is pursuing legislation that would direct USDA to conduct such a survey. AFBF opposes increasing make allowances based on potentially biased voluntary survey data that could reduce farmers’ prices unfairly. AFBF submitted nine proposals for consideration during the hearing, and four were accepted by USDA. Additionally, AFBF largely supports four of the five proposals submitted by the National Milk Producers Federation. Full AFBF testimony is available at fb.org. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces 100th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum USDA's 100th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum, "Cultivating the Future," will take place on February 15-16, 2024, at the Crystal City Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia. The forum is USDA's longest-running and largest public event and aims to help stakeholders understand and plan for the opportunities and challenges facing the agricultural sector at home and abroad. Each year, it attracts more than 1,800 people in person, and nearly 5,000 virtual attendees from the U.S. and worldwide. The program will include remarks from the Secretary of Agriculture and other top Department officials, along with 30 breakout sessions featuring more than 120 leading experts on a wide range of timely food and agriculture-related topics. Whether you're a farmer, policymaker, industry leader, market analyst, or simply interested in the future of agriculture, the Agricultural Outlook Forum is the perfect place to connect, learn, and engage. Registration will open at the end of October. *********************************************************************************** AVMA Reignites Efforts to Address Rural Veterinary Shortages Lawmakers have reintroduced the Association, the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act, formerly known as the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program Enhancement Act. Introduced in both the House and Senate, the legislation would expand the reach of the Medicine Loan Repayment Program. The program helps increase access to food animal veterinary services in rural areas by assisting with the significant obstacle of educational debt. The legislation would end the federal taxation on awards, enabling more veterinarians to participate in a program that offers up to $75,000 over three years for student loan repayment in exchange for service in USDA-designated shortage areas. In 2023, the USDA declared 237 rural veterinary shortage areas in 47 states, more than any year. American Veterinary Medical Association President Dr. Rena Carlson says, "we look forward to working with the congressional champions to enact this bill and help rural communities across the country access the many essential services veterinarians provide.” *********************************************************************************** McKalip to Travel to Oakland, California Port The U.S. Chief Agricultural Negotiator Doug McKalip will visit Oakland, California, on Thursday. McKalip will visit the Port of Oakland to tour its facilities and engage with stakeholders during his trip. McKalip will be joined by local International Longshore and Warehouse Union leadership and local members of the Pacific Maritime Association. Ensuring the success of America's farmers and producers has been a topline priority for the U.S. Trade Representative's Office under Ambassador Katherine Tai's leadership. The trip follows the recent labor agreement between West Coast port workers and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association. Most recently, USTR secured an agreement with India on September 8, 2023, to resolve the last World Trade Organization dispute and lower tariffs on certain U.S. agricultural products. This built upon the agreement finalized with India in June, which terminated six other WTO disputes and removed retaliatory tariffs on other U.S. agricultural products. *********************************************************************************** Lely Robotic Milkers Class Action Suit Settled Producers and their law firm reached a settlement agreement this month against a manufacturer of allegedly defective milking robots. On September 1, 2023, the Court granted final approval of the settlement for the Lely A4. The settlement allowed class members to replace their existing robot with Lely's newer A5 model or receive cash relief. Nearly all of the approximately 400 class members participated, and the relief selected is worth approximately $121 million. Based on the claims submitted and options chosen, the cash fund is approximately $51 million, and those opting for trade-ins will receive approximately $71 million in value for trading in their A4s for new A5s. In approving the settlement, the Court called it an "excellent result," noting that it provided "outstanding relief" and received "overwhelming, unprecedented" support from the class. The terms of the settlement were agreed upon after nearly three years of litigation. *********************************************************************************** USDA Study Underscores Importance of Food Safety Education Month USDA Tuesday released results from the final year of a five-year study that observed how consumers prepared meals. The study observed food safety behaviors, including participants' thermometer use for ground pork sausage, handwashing, and cleaning and sanitizing food preparation surfaces. The most recent data shows that 87 percent of participants self-reported they washed their hands before starting to cook in the test kitchen. However, only 44 percent of participants were observed doing so before meal preparation. In the study, 50 percent of participants used a food thermometer to check the doneness of the sausage patties. However, 50 percent of those participants did not check all the food. The study used a harmless tracer bacteria, which was injected into the pork sausage, to simulate the spread of foodborne illness-causing bacteria. Among the surfaces tested, the kitchen sink was most often contaminated, with 34 percent of participants contaminating the sink during meal preparation.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 20, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories is at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Many expect the Fed to keep the federal funds rate unchanged at their 1 p.m. announcement, but a quarter-percent hike is possible. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts with rain expected to start in the western Plains on Thursday. Weather A couple of disturbances in the middle of the country continue to produce showers on Wednesday, especially one moving through the Ozarks which may yield some areas of heavy rain. A front that has set up in the Northern Plains will also be active with periods of showers and thunderstorms as well. That is in advance of a system that will have a major influence on the middle of the country later this week and weekend.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 19, 2023 |

USDA Seeking Beginning Farmer and Ranchers Committee Members The Department of Agriculture Monday announced a call for nominations to the Advisory Committee on Beginning Farmers and Ranchers. First established in 1992, the committee advises the Agriculture Secretary to enhance USDA’s goals for new farming and ranching operations. Members of the public are invited to submit nominations for themselves or other qualified experts by October 10, 2023. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “USDA is committed to helping the beginning farmer, the young farmer, access and make use of USDA programs.” USDA is soliciting nominations from interested organizations and individuals from among ranching and farming producers, related state and tribal agricultural entities, academic institutions, commercial banking entities, trade associations, and related nonprofit enterprises. The Agriculture Secretary may appoint up to 20 members to the committee. An organization may nominate individuals from within or outside its membership. Interested candidates may also nominate themselves. Find the nomination requirements and information on the committee website. *********************************************************************************** USDA Data Shows Crop Improvement R&D Spending Expanding Total research and development spending on crop improvement by the seven largest seed companies increased from less than $2 billion in 1990 to more than $6.5 billion by 2021. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports the spending closely tracks with increases in company revenues from seed and agrichemical sales. Intellectual property rights protections for new seed innovations—especially genetically modified seeds—allow seed companies to set product prices with a temporary legal monopoly. The profits earned are a return for research and development investments and costs to commercialize the inventions. The profits also allowed seed companies to spend more on crop research and development, accelerate the rate of new variety introductions with higher productivity potential, and charge higher prices reflecting the value of improved seeds, according to USDA. Collectively, the seven companies have invested about ten percent of their agricultural revenues in research and development. The top companies include Bayer, Corteva, Syngenta, BASF, Limagrain, KWS and Rijk Zwaan (rike-svan). *********************************************************************************** USTR to Deliver Speech on WTO Reform Trade Representative Katherine Tai will deliver a speech on the World Trade Organization and participate in a fireside chat Friday at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, D.C. Tai will also participate in a fireside chat with the WTO Director-General. In her speech, Ambassador Tai will underscore the importance of reform at the World Trade Organization to make it a more effective, responsive, and inclusive forum for solving today's global challenges. She will also highlight areas of reform that are a priority to the United States, and how the United States is engaging with other WTO Members to advance these priorities. The Center for Strategic and International Studies is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization dedicated to advancing practical ideas to address the world’s greatest challenges. The organization is self-described as one of the world’s preeminent public policy institutions on foreign policy and national security issues. ********************************************************************************** Cargill, Soil Health Institute Create Water Stewardship Partnership The Soil Health Institute and Cargill recently partnered to implement regenerative agriculture practices through water stewardship within agricultural supply chains. The three-year, $3 million partnership will equip farmers, conservation planners, and sustainability experts across North America with tools to enhance drought resilience, improve soil health, and encourage sustainable water use. Soil Health Institute President and CEO Wayne Honeycutt says, "We're expediting adoption of regenerative systems by offering stakeholders practical insights to assess improvements in water storage and availability resulting from changes in on-farm practices." Research has demonstrated that increases in available water-holding capacity associated with soil organic carbon gains from soil health practice implementation can lead to twice as much water storage in the topsoil compared to previous estimates. The partnership will enable farmers, businesses, researchers, governments, and other sustainability experts to assess their progress toward water stewardship objectives and build industry convergence around the value of soil health in enhancing drought resilience and sustainable water management. *********************************************************************************** Rail Safety Week Raising Awareness to Save Lives Operation Lifesaver this week is promoting Rail Safety Week. The annual week-long event concentrates public attention on the need for rail safety education and saves lives by educating and empowering the public to make safe decisions around tracks and trains. Operation Lifesaver’s national office and state Operation Lifesaver programs across the U.S. will connect with their communities through in-person and online events, sharing rail safety messages and urging the public to get involved. Every year, 2,100 North Americans are killed or seriously injured when they engage in unsafe behavior around tracks and trains. In the U.S. alone, a person or vehicle is hit by a train every 3 hours. Operation Lifesaver Executive Director Rachel Maleh (mall-lay) says, “Everyone can help make their communities safer. Know the facts, recognize the signs, make good decisions and join us.” The organization is partnering with Operation Lifesaver Canada and the Association of Mexican Railroads to promote the week across North America. *********************************************************************************** Refinery Outages Increase Fuel Prices For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline increased, climbing 4.6 cents from a week ago to $3.83 per gallon. The national average is down one cent from a month ago but 19.9 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price increased 9.9 cents last week and stands at $4.53 per gallon, 42.1 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "With the transition back to cheaper winter gasoline now upon us in nearly every state, we should see prices eventually cooling back off, but if refinery issues continue to develop or linger, especially now that we're entering maintenance season with less available capacity online, the expected decline could certainly be offset.” U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a decline of 1.5 percent last week, as demand continues to weaken seasonally while rising prices could also be playing a role.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 19, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday. The Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting, discussing whether to increase the federal funds rate target another quarter-percent or to leave it alone for now. Traders will digest Monday's harvest progress data from USDA, the latest weather forecasts and keep an eye on Black Sea events. Weather A couple of disturbances in the middle of the country will be responsible for areas of showers from Texas to areas around Lake Michigan on Tuesday. Most areas will see light rain, but pockets of heavier rain will be possible, especially farther south across Oklahoma and Texas, where there is a greater risk of severe weather, especially hail.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 18, 2023 |

Wheat Growers Complete Second Farm Bill Fly-In The National Association of Wheat Growers completed the second part of its 2023 summer Farm Bill Fly-Ins. The first round of visits to Capitol Hill took place in July. During the visit, wheat growers from across the country reinforced the association’s core priorities and underscored the need for Congress to work together to ensure farmers can continue providing safe and affordable food for everyone. Last week, growers from 14 states met with their delegations, staff from each Ag Committee, and Congressional leadership to continue educating lawmakers and advocating for an effective farm safety net. The group’s priorities include working to strengthen Title 1 and crop insurance to better protect farmers. They want support for financial and technical assistance through voluntary conservation cost-share programs for producers in all climates and regions. They’re also encouraging additional investment in agricultural trade promotions and U.S. commodities as part of the farm bill’s trade title. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Industry Supports GREET Model for Scientific Emissions Accuracy American ethanol organizations like the U.S. Grains Council, Growth Energy, and the Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on sustainable aviation fuel. When it comes to global actions to decarbonize the aviation transportation sector using Sustainable Aviation Fuel, the industry wants to encourage the use of updated carbon-intensity scoring in the GREET model. They don’t want scoring used in the CORSIA model for corn-based ethanol SAF. The letter says, “We strongly support adopting the DOE’s GREET Model as the standard for carbon intensity scoring of conventional aviation fuels and SAF. The latest GREET model relies on the most current information and highest-resolution data regarding the energy use, carbon emissions, and potential land use impacts associated with the corn ethanol-based SAF process.” The letter also says GREET allows the Treasury to unlock the full potential of agriculture to meet the growing global aviation industry SAF demand. *********************************************************************************** House Bill Targets California’s Electric Vehicle Mandate The U.S. House of Representatives approved a bill prohibiting California’s attempt to eliminate all gas-powered vehicles. The bill passed the House 222-190. It would keep states from limiting the sale of gas-powered cars and revoke any federal approvals allowing states to do so issued since the beginning of 2022. The vote was along party lines, but eight Democrats did vote with Republicans in favor of the legislation. The legislation doesn’t specifically mention California in its language. States can implement tighter clean car rules stricter than those from the federal government under the Clean Air Act. But those states have to get permission from the Environmental Protection Agency first. The Hill says the EPA reinstated a waiver allowing a California rule aimed at limiting vehicle pollution to take effect. Since then, the state intends to completely phase out the new sales of gas-powered cars. The bill isn’t expected to become law. *********************************************************************************** U.S. HRW Exports Hit Record Low Levels U.S. Hard Red Winter Wheat exports are forecast down 10 million bushels this month to 155 million bushels, the lowest since records began in 1973-1974. HRW supplies have seen a long-term downturn in U.S. acreage as corn and soybeans gained acres in many locations. International wheat competition has also surged, resulting in exports of this class being less competitive on the global market. U.S. HRW supplies have recently been affected by significant drought in consecutive years, which has dented crop prospects and contributed to exports of this class being uncompetitive with other suppliers like Russia and the European Union. Historically, HRW was the leading class of American exports, but this year it’s forecast to be the third-largest class of U.S. exports, surpassed by both Hard Red Spring and White Wheat. Production of HRS and White is down year-over-year with lower yields, but drought hasn’t hit those classes as hard as HRW. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Announces Grant Opportunity for New Livestock Vaccines Iowa Secretary of Ag Mike Naig (NAYG) announced the new Livestock Protection Innovation Grant Program. The program will provide grant funding to assist Iowa-based companies in the development of safe and effective vaccines that may help protect livestock from foreign animal diseases. “Protecting Iowa’s nation-leading livestock industry from devastating foreign animal diseases is enormously important to the farm families and local communities that benefit from its 13-billion-dollar impact,” Naig says. “Vaccine development is one of the many steps we are taking to help safeguard our farm animals because it’s important to have tools available to effectively respond to disease and protect our food supply.” The Iowa Legislature, with support from Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, appropriated $250,000 for livestock vaccine development within Iowa during the last legislative session. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is working in collaboration with many stakeholders and officials to swiftly respond to any threat. *********************************************************************************** Purdue Survey Shows Consumer Attitudes on Higher Pork Prices A new Purdue University survey indicates that consumers appear to be more willing to live with higher pork prices if they are the result of meeting animal welfare standards like California’s Prop 12. In the nationwide survey, consumers said they would scale back their purchases if pork prices went higher. But fewer of them would cut back on buying pork if Prop 12 was the reason for the increase. A small segment of survey respondents said they would buy even more pork in that case. “We saw responses that suggest animal welfare is more important to consumers than previously thought,” says Elijah Bryant, a research analyst at Purdue. “Even though the hypothetical price increase is the same size, fewer consumers would decrease their spending on pork knowing the price increase was caused by animal welfare regulations.” The Purdue survey results will get tested on January 1 when Prop 12 is fully implemented.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 18, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Harvest Picks up, Will Washington Lie Down OMAHA (DTN)-- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of September 17. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Harvest reports roll in: You'll find continued harvest reports from the field in our View from the Cab feature as well as coming stories from select combine cabs. 2. Washington's failure to launch: DTN's Chris Clayton will be in D.C. next week covering potential Farm Bill conversations as well as watching for the potential shutdown of government operations at the end of the month. Watch for news stories as well as sharp commentary in his Ag Policy blog. 3. Cattle on Feed Friday: The latest USDA Cattle on Feed Report hits at 2 p.m. CDT Friday, with analysis by DTN's ShayLe Stewart soon after. 4. Harvest Weather Questions: Early harvest conditions continue to be mostly favorable, but more rain would be welcome for immature crops and winter wheat establishment. A system moves into the Plains in the middle of next week, bringing a chance of showers to at least the western half of the region later this week. Central and southern plains areas have the best chance for heavier rains. Rain chances increase for the northern Plains by the weekend, while the South stays dry. 5. Reports Fill the Week: USDA's weekly grain export inspections hit the wires at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by USDA's Livestock, Poultry and Dairy Outlook at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. We'll have analysis of Crop Progress Report following the data release. Tuesday we'll see U.S. housing starts for August at 7:30 a.m., while the Fed begins its next two-day meeting. Wednesday the Energy Department releases its weekly energy inventories report at 9:30 a.m., while the Fed is expected to raise the federal funds rate by a quarter-percent at 1 p.m. Thursday we'll see USDA's weekly export sales report at 7:30 a.m., the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales and leading indicators are set for 8 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Friday, as noted above, features the Cattle on Feed report.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 18, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts, watch for harvest anecdotes and any news from the Black Sea region. USDA's weekly grain export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's Livestock, Poultry and Dairy Outlook at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A front will bring some rain, which may be intense, along the East Coast on Monday. High pressure over the middle of the country will keep most other areas dry. That shifts east tonight with showers being possible in isolated clusters overnight into Tuesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 15, 2023 |

State Ag Departments Set Policy Priorities The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture set policy priorities for the upcoming year during its annual meeting. NASDA will advocate to give the USDA more authority to be flexible in serving farmers and ranchers who often face challenges in seeking disaster assistance. NASDA members also want existing gaps in insurance coverage and federal disaster relief programs closed to protect farmers from an increasing number of natural disasters. Members will also advocate for standards that ensure clear and consistent labeling for cell-based meat products, also referred to as cultured meat. During the meeting, NASDA also adopted a new policy of supporting laws that protect farmers’ right to farm. The new policy advocates for protecting agricultural and forestry operations from nuisance lawsuits. NASDA members also amended the organization’s policy to support increased investment in apprenticeships and educational programming because of a tremendous need for workers with training specializing in agricultural fields. *********************************************************************************** NASDA Elects News Leadership at Annual Meeting The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture finished its annual meeting by electing new leadership for 2023-2024. Blayne Arthur, Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture, will serve as NASDA’s 2023-2024 President and host the 2024 NASDA Annual Meeting on September 22-25, 2024. “The opportunity to serve as NASDA President is incredibly humbling and certainly an honor, and I appreciate the support of my fellow Ag Commissioners in this new role,” Arthur says. “Agriculture looks different all across the U.S., but I look forward to working together to cultivate common ground as we help producers feed, fuel, and clothe the world.” She also says NASDA members will remain steadfast in their commitment to strengthen and promote agriculture in this country and she’s excited to continue this work. Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture Wes Ward is the new Vice President, Amanda Beal of Maine is Second VP, and Washington’s Derek Sandison is the Secretary-Treasurer. *********************************************************************************** September is National Chicken Month September is National Chicken Month, celebrating the most-consumed meat in the U.S. Two-thirds of all chickens in America are raised in Alabama, Georgia, Arkansas, North Carolina, Mississippi, and Texas. Chicken is also one of the top agricultural exports for the U.S. Foreign markets are increasingly important, accounting for $4.4 billion and 16 percent of world production in 2022. The U.S. is the second-largest exporter in the world as more than 145 countries imported U.S. frozen chicken leg quarters, legs, and thighs last year. While American consumers prefer chicken breast meat, dark meat is more widely desired and consumed internationally. Most U.S. chicken meat exports are often destined for low and middle-income countries that value safe, affordable, and tasty high-protein options. In 2022, almost all of the U.S. broiler meat exports went to developing economies. Fourteen percent of shipments were exported to some of the least developed countries in the world. *********************************************************************************** EPA Resolves Long-Standing ESA Litigation The U.S. Justice Department, on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency, resolved long-standing litigation covering over 1,000 pesticide products. The resolution allows EPA to fulfill its obligations to protect endangered species while conducting reviews and approvals of pesticides in a safe and protective manner. In 2011, a lawsuit was filed against EPA alleging it violated the Endangered Species Act when it registered or reevaluated the registration of 382 pesticide active ingredients. A settlement entered in a federal court resolves all outstanding claims. “The agreement is a win-win to protect endangered species, ensure the availability of pesticides needed to grow food across America, and save considerable time and taxpayer expenses further required to litigate this case,” says Michael Freedhoff of the EPA. “This settlement allows EPA time to fulfill its obligations under the ESA and adopt key elements from the Agency’s 2022 ESA work plan, which has a wide range of stakeholders’ support.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests $6.5 Million in Risk Management Education The USDA is awarding approximately $6.5 million to 22 organizations to educate underserved, small-scale, and organic producers on-farm risk management and climate-smart farm practices. The funding from the Risk Management Agency provides assistance through its Risk Management Education partnerships for organizations like non-profits and land grant universities. “This funding and these partnerships are integral to our outreach efforts in communities that historically have not had access to training about risk management options,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “As a farmer, I know first-hand that agriculture is a risky business.” She also says because of that risk, the agency is determined to work with growers and livestock producers to provide them with training and resources about risk management options and how to apply them to their farming businesses. RMA first advertised the available funds in January, and this year’s recipients include nonprofits, historically black colleges, and university extensions, among others. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Show High Interest in Harvest Autonomy Farmers in the U.S. and Canada appear to be embracing autonomous technology to optimize their operations and boost productivity. A survey conducted by Forward Group revealed that 65 percent of the operators surveyed expressed enthusiasm for adopting autonomy solutions, while 29 percent showed high levels of enthusiasm. The survey findings emphasize the positive impact of autonomous solutions on farming efficiency, profitability, and sustainability. Sixty-seven percent of the farmers intend to adopt autonomy technology by 2027, with 47 percent planning integration into their operations by 2025, provided the technology proves effective for the tasks. The survey also shows that 59 percent of farmers believe the autonomy will bring significant value to their carting operations. A substantial 51 percent of respondents expressed trust in autonomy technology for their harvesting. The driving factors behind the growing interest include 42 percent of the farmers interested in the technology wanting the autonomy to increase their productivity.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 15, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. industrial production in August is out at 8:15 a.m., followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index at 9 a.m. The National Oilseeds Processors Association will report on members' soybean crush for August later Friday morning. Weather A weak frontal boundary is moving through the Western Corn Belt on Friday with mostly light showers. Heavier showers and thunderstorms are forecast for parts of Texas. Some showers will also develop in the Southeast, otherwise the country will be dry.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 14, 2023 |

Consumer Price Index: Food Prices Rise Again The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.6 percent in August on a seasonally adjusted basis, after increasing 0.2 percent in July. Over the last 12 months, the all-items index increased 3.7 percent before seasonal adjustment. The index for gasoline was the largest contributor to the monthly all-items increase, accounting for over half of the increase. The food index increased 0.2 percent in August, as it did in July. The index for food at home increased 0.2 percent over the month, while the index for food away from home rose 0.3 percent in August. The six major grocery store food group indexes were split over the month, with three increases and three decreases. The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs rose 0.8 percent in August as the index for pork increased 2.2 percent. The index for other food at home increased 0.2 percent over the month, and the index for cereals and bakery products rose 0.5 percent. *********************************************************************************** Voters Want Congressional Support for Low-Carbon Ethanol A new survey from Morning Consult found continued strong voter support for policies promoting the use of lower-cost, lower-carbon American-made ethanol. Registered voters also indicated robust support for specific legislation allowing the year-round sale of E15 and policy promoting the production of more flex-fuel vehicles capable of using the lower-cost E85 fuel blend. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "This nationwide poll of more than 2,000 voters shows strong support for important legislative proposals that are currently pending in the House and Senate." Among the results, 62 percent of those surveyed had a favorable opinion of ethanol, while only 17 percent had an unfavorable opinion. Further, 67 percent also support the United States increasing the availability of the E15 blend, and only 14 percent opposed the expansion of E15. Of those surveyed, 63 percent support the Flex Fuel Fairness Act, 61 percent support the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, and 61 percent support the Next Generation Fuels Act. *********************************************************************************** Clean Fuels Releases Used Cooking Oil Outlook for Biodiesel Clean Fuels Alliance America Wednesday released a new report assessing potential global supplies of used cooking oil. Specifically, the report looks at used cooking oil to meet the growing demand for biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel through 2030. In 2022, global used cooling oil trade reached 3.7 billion gallons. With anticipated demand and added value from biodiesel and renewable diesel production, the supply could grow to between five billion and ten billion gallons by 2030. With additional global used cooking oil collection, the potential supply could increase by an additional four billion to seven billion gallons. The report indicates that the United States has the most well-developed used cooking oil collection system, due to long-standing practices for its use and disposal. In 2022, the U.S. supply reached 850 million gallons. Increasing biodiesel and renewable diesel production incentivizes domestic use of that supply – curbing recent export trends. Global used cooking oil trade reached 1.3 billion gallons in 2022. *********************************************************************************** AEM: Overall Tractor Sales Lower Heavy-duty row crop tractor unit sales continued to increase in the U.S., while overall farm tractor unit sales in the U.S. and Canada declined in August. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers reports 100-plus horsepower, two-wheel-drive tractors, and four-wheel-drive tractors, were the only segments to grow year over year. Both those segments, along with self-propelled combines, remain positive for the year. The biggest overall growth among tractors happened in four-wheel-drive units, growing more than 20 percent in August. AEM's Curt Blades says, "North American row-crop farmers continue to add and adopt new technology to their equipment fleets to help reduce costs and improve yields." Overall unit sales of U.S. tractors are down 4.6 percent compared to sales in August 2022, while combine sales declined slightly by 2.4 percent. Canadian tractor sales improved their pace versus the previous month, falling just over six percent, with combines declining more than 17 percent. *********************************************************************************** APHIS Finalizes Changes to Import Regulations for Horses USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wednesday announced the finalized amendments to its import regulations for horses. The amendments will better align regulations with international standards and allow more flexibility for permitted imports while continuing to mitigate the risk of bringing equine diseases into the United States. The regulations also provide APHIS with more regulatory authority to enforce standards for transporting horses. The changes include increasing the amount of time allowed for horses to be in a contagious equine metritis-affected region without testing upon their return to the United States from 60 to 90 days. The amendments also update ports designated for the importation of horses, adding requirements for health certifications and requiring that horses transiting Central America or the West Indies comply with the same regulations that apply to horses directly imported from these regions, given the greater risk of equine diseases of concern from these areas. The final rule goes into effect on October 16, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Few US Adults Rate Their Diet Good or Excellent New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service show Americans don’t have high ratings for their diets. In the period covering January 2017 to March 2020, just under three in ten adults, or 29 percent, reported the healthfulness of their diets was very good or excellent.” That is 3.5 percentage points lower than the corresponding share reported in 2005–06. The data can be found in the latest publicly available wave of the Flexible Consumer Behavior Survey, which collects information on U.S. consumers’ knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about nutrition and food choices. For context, 41 percent of adults surveyed in the 1989–1991 Continuing Survey of Food Intakes of Individuals rated the healthfulness of their diets as “very good” or excellent, suggesting a continuing downward trend in the health quality individuals ascribe to their diets. FCBS is a module of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, and its data reflect national trends about changing dietary behaviors of U.S. consumers.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 14, 2023 |

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, U.S. retail sales and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Weather A new front and an old one will make for showers in the Plains on Thursday, with any pockets of moderate to heavy rain likely to stay confined in parts of Texas. Mild temperatures continue to be the case for most areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 13, 2023 |

USDA Releases September WASDE Report USDA released the September World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report Tuesday. This month’s corn outlook calls for slightly larger supplies and ending stocks. Projected beginning stocks for 2023/24 are five million bushels lower, and corn production is forecast at 15.1 billion bushels, up 23 million from last month. The national average yield is forecast at 173.8 bushels per acre, down 1.3 bushels. Ending stocks are up 19 million bushels to 2.2 billion. The season-average corn price is unchanged at $4.90 per bushel. Soybean supply and use changes for 2023/24 include lower beginning stocks, production, crush, exports, and ending stocks. The soybean yield of 50.1 bushels per acre is down 0.8 bushels from last month. Ending stocks are projected at 220 million bushels, down 25 million from last month. The season-average soybean price is forecast at $12.90 per bushel, up $0.20 from last month. The wheat outlook for supply and use is unchanged this month. The projected 2023/24 season-average farm price is also unchanged at $7.50 per bushel. *********************************************************************************** Crop Production Report Shows Higher Corn Production Corn production is up, while soybean and cotton production is down from 2022, according to USDA’s Crop Production report issued Tuesday. Corn production is up ten percent from last year, forecast at 15.1 billion bushels. Soybean growers are expected to decrease their production three percent from 2022, forecast at 4.15 billion bushels. Finally, cotton production is down nine percent from 2022 at 13.1 million 480-pound bales. Planted and harvested acreage estimates for corn, cotton, and soybeans were reviewed based on all available data, including the latest certified acreage data from the Farm Service Agency. As a result, area planted to corn is estimated at 94.9 million acres, up one percent from the previous estimate, area planted to soybeans is estimated at 83.6 million acres, up slightly, and area planted to cotton is estimated at 10.2 million acres, down eight percent from the previous estimate. USDA surveyed more than 7,000 producers across the country and conducted objective yield surveys for the report. *********************************************************************************** Basil Gooden Nominated as USDA Rural Development Undersecretary President Joe Biden this week nominated Dr. Basil Gooden to serve as USDA Undersecretary for Rural Development. If confirmed by the Senate, Gooden would fill the undersecretary position left vacant by Xochitl Torres Small, who was confirmed in July 2023 as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack responded, “Dr. Basil Gooden is a widely-respected, accomplished champion for affordable housing, community advancement, and economic development.” One of USDA’s seven mission areas, Rural Development helps to expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. Gooden recently served as a Visiting Scholar in the Sustainable Food Access Core of the Institute for Inclusion, Inquiry and Innovation at Virginia Commonwealth University. From 2016-2018, he served as the 3rd Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Before that, Gooden served as the Virginia State Director for Rural Development at USDA. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Awards to Support One Health Initiatives USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is awarding 36 research awards totaling more than $56 million to support One Health surveillance and coordination. One Health is a collaborative, multisectoral, and transdisciplinary approach – working at the local, regional, national, and global levels – to achieve optimal health outcomes. It recognizes the interconnection between animals, people, plants and their shared environment. The announcement includes eight Agriculture and Food Research Initiative projects from USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture, one National Science Foundation Ecology and Evolution of Infectious Diseases program project, and 27 projects identified through the USDA APHIS SARS-CoV-2 in animals funding opportunities. The awards will help APHIS accomplish its goal of building an early warning system to potentially prevent or limit the next zoonotic disease outbreak. APHIS Acting Administrator Dr. Michael Watson says, "This important work will strengthen our foundation to protect humans and animals for years to come." *********************************************************************************** FFAR Renews ESMC Partnership to Grow Market Program The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research Tuesday announced the renewal of its partnership with Ecosystem Services Market Consortium, or ESMC. The foundation awarded $10.3 million in 2019 to ESMC to support its research arm, matched by ESMC for a total of $20.6 million. That research resulted in Eco-Harvest, launched in May 2022. Eco-Harvest is an ecosystem services market program that financially rewards participating producers for using regenerative agriculture practices that generate beneficial environmental outcomes. Eco-Harvest program regions include the corn and soy belt, Northern Great Plains, Southern Great Plains, Southeast and Great Lakes regions for corn, soy, wheat, oats and alfalfa cropping systems. FFAR announced an investment of $5.15 million for additional research, and ESMC is matching the award for a total $10.3 million. ESRC will conduct the research, development, demonstration and deployment activities that facilitate Eco-Harvest participating in all major U.S. agricultural regions. FFAR’s Dr. LaKisha Odom says, “These practices are critical in protecting farmers’ livelihoods and the environment, while increasing productivity.” *********************************************************************************** CHS Intends to Return $730 Million to Owners CHS Inc., the nation's leading agribusiness cooperative, has announced it intends to return $730 million in cash patronage and equity redemptions to its owners in calendar year 2024. The CHS Board of Directors determines the total amount of cash to be returned to CHS owners at the close of each fiscal year. Based on business done with CHS in fiscal year 2023, which ended on August 31, 2023, the CHS Board has elected to return $365 million in cash patronage and $365 million through equity redemptions to CHS owners. CHS owners are member cooperatives and farmer-owners in hundreds of communities across rural America. The cash returns earmarked for distribution in 2024 will combine with the previous year's cash returns for more than $1.7 billion shared with owners over two years and more than $3.2 billion returned to owners over the past ten years. Final financial results for fiscal year 2023 are expected to be announced in November 2023.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 13, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for August will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. The U.S. Treasury reports on the federal budget for August at 1 p.m. Weather A front continues to work across the far south and east on Wednesday, with mostly quiet conditions throughout the Corn Belt. A few isolated showers remain possible in the Great Lakes. Temperatures remain mild for most areas, even in Texas as the front moves through.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 12, 2023 |

Ag Labor Expenses Forecast to Increase in 2023 Total cash labor expenses for the U.S. agriculture sector are forecast to be $43.35 billion for 2023, based on new data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. This would be an increase of $0.78 billion, or 1.8 percent, over the 2022 level of $42.57 billion in inflation-adjusted 2023 dollars. The projected 2023 level would remain below the high set in 2017. Labor expenses are an important component of agricultural production costs. For every $100 spent on production expenses, almost $10 goes toward labor. Total labor expenses include contract and hired labor payments but exclude non-cash employee compensation. Generally, the animal production sector uses less hired and contract labor than the crop sector. In 2021, the animal production sector accounted for about one-third of total hired and contract labor expenses, with the remaining roughly two-thirds incurred by the crop production sector. This is because some large specialty crops are more labor-intensive than most industries in the animal sector. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Applauds Natural Disaster Assistance for Dairy Farmers New funding announced Monday from the Department of Agriculture will help dairy producers affected by natural disasters. The Milk Loss Program administered by the Farm Service Agency will compensate eligible dairy farms and processors for milk dumped due to qualifying disaster events from 2020 to 2022. Eligible disasters include droughts, wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, winter storms and smoke exposure. The Milk Loss Program will help farmers and, in certain cases, cooperatives, recover losses previously overlooked by disaster assistance. The National Milk Producers Federation applauded the announcement. NMPF president and CEO Jim Mulhern says, “We’re very appreciative of USDA’s diligent work over several months to finalize the compensation plan that will address this backlog of disaster assistance.” Dairy farmers and cooperatives can sign up for the program through October 16, 2023. In other FSA dairy safety-net support, Dairy Margin Coverage program payments have triggered every month, January through July, for producers who obtained coverage for the 2023 program year. *********************************************************************************** TFI Welcomes STB’s Proposed Rule on Reciprocal Switching The Fertilizer Institute praised the Surface Transportation Board’s recent Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on providing rail customers access to reciprocal switching as a remedy for poor rail service. STB Chairman Martin Oberman stated in the announcement, “In the past several years, and particularly since 2021, it has become clear that many rail customers nationwide have suffered from inadequate and deteriorating rail service.” The proposal from the STB would provide a streamlined path for rail customers to obtain a reciprocal switching order by including specific, objective, and measurable criteria for determining eligibility. That criterion includes measures of service reliability, service consistency, and adequacy of local service. The proposal would also standardize these three service metrics across all Class 1 carriers for the first time. President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, “More than 60 percent of fertilizer moves by rail and is therefore critical to the on-time delivery of fertilizer to farmers exactly where and when they need it.” *********************************************************************************** AEM: Market Challenges Lie Ahead, But Optimism is Warranted As equipment manufacturers look ahead to the remainder of 2023 and beyond, the landscape continues to present challenges for the industry and the ag and construction customers it serves. AEM members report demand for products across both industries has softened. However, particularly in construction, investments in infrastructure, energy and utilities, point to better days ahead. And a wealth of data suggests optimism – both in the short term and long term. AEM Director of Agriculture Austin Gellings says, “Essentially, everything hinges on where a farmer is going to be able to improve their efficiency the most and in turn see the greatest return on investment.” With input costs continuing to rise, the best ways for a farmer to respond and continue to reap the rewards of strong commodity prices is to operate on those margins and find wins where they can. As farmers are looking for ways to minimize inputs while still increasing yields, technology and data provides the answer. *********************************************************************************** NASDA Foundation welcomes Next Generation class of 2023 The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture Foundation welcomes NASDA's Next Generation class of 2023, featuring 13 students from ten states. The NASDA Next Generation class of 2023 will network with commissioners, secretaries and directors of agriculture, industry leaders, and stakeholders at the NASDA Annual Meeting. The program aims to advance future leaders' understanding of agriculture policy and the role of state departments of agriculture in ensuring a healthy and thriving food system for all. Through the NASDA Next Generation programming, students learn about pressing food and agricultural policy issues, NASDA's mission, and careers in public service. During the meeting events, students can also explore Wyoming's community-based agriculture. NASDA CEO Ted McKinney says, “This cohort of students represents the wide variety of experience and dedication to agricultural excellence that will enable the industry to thrive and impact the entire food system moving forward.” You can find the list of students on the NASDA website. *********************************************************************************** GasBuddy: Weekly Fuel Prices Rise Again After falling for two straight weeks, the nation's average price of gasoline increased, rising 1.6 cents from a week ago to $3.79 per gallon. The national average is down 3.0 cents from a month ago but 11.4 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 0.9 cents last week to 4.42 per gallon, 58.6 cents lower than one year ago. The West Coast and the Corn Belt saw the brunt of last week's increases. More than ten states saw prices rise by more than ten cents per gallon compared to last week, while some, like Iowa and Minnesota, have seen average prices spike by over 30 cents per gallon. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "We should see more price decreases for most of the nation in the weeks ahead, barring further refinery disruptions and hurricane season." U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a hefty 3.9 percent decrease last week, as post-Labor Day travel appeared to drop significantly.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 12, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets USDA's Crop Production and WASDE reports are due out at 11 a.m. CDT Tuesday with prompt coverage on DTN and a post-report webinar at 12:30 p.m. The U.S. Energy Department will also release its Short-Term Energy Outlook Tuesday morning. DTN will also have a presentation of weather and markets at Husker Harvest at 2 p.m., at the DTN building, Lot 802. Weather A front continues to trek southeast through the country Tuesday, producing areas of showers from the Southern Plains to the Northeast. Temperatures behind the front continue to be mild.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 11, 2023 |

World Food Prices Lower in August The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization’s Food Price Index averaged 121.4 points in August, a 2.6-point drop from July, reversing the rebound registered that month. The August drop pushed the index 38 points lower than its peak reached in March 2022. The overall drop was driven by declines in the index for dairy products, vegetable oils, meat, and cereals, while the sugar price index rose modestly. The Dairy Price Index averaged 111.3 points in August and took the biggest drop, down 4.6 points from July, the eighth-straight monthly decline. The Vegetable Oil Index averaged 125.8 points, 4.6 points below July. The Meat Price Index averaged 111.3 points in August, down 4.6 points from July, the eighth-consecutive monthly drop. The Sugar Price Index averaged 148.2 points in August, up 1.9 points from July and as much as 37.7 points, or 34 percent, from its level in the same month last year. *********************************************************************************** July Pork Exports Stay Above 2022 Levels Building on a robust first half of 2023, July pork exports continue to outpace 2022 levels. USDA data showed July pork exports at 219,000 metric tons, up five percent from last year, while export value rose one percent to $628.7 million. Exports to the top market, Mexico, continued at a record pace. “Market diversification has been the top priority for the U.S. pork industry, and those efforts certainly reflect these results,” says Dan Halstrom, President and CEO of the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Through the first seven months of this year, exports were 13 percent higher than last year’s pace at 1.69 million metric tons. Beef exports stepped back in July, posting the lowest volume since January. July beef exports totaled 103,167 metric tons, 18 percent below last year. Beef export value was down 19 percent to $810.4 million, the lowest since February. Exports posted gains in Mexico, Taiwan, and Canada. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Wants Aviation Biofuel Tax Decisions Tied to Emissions Model Asserting that U.S. tax policy should be tied to the best standards the government has, 17 of the nation’s top corn grower leaders sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. It encourages her to adopt an emissions model developed by the Energy Department as her agency works with the IRS to determine which biofuels lower greenhouse gas emissions enough to qualify for sustainable aviation fuel tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. The letter comes as corn ethanol has been used for years in cars and trucks while saving consumers money on fuel. Ethanol is being considered for use in the aviation arena, where experts say the biofuel would do for airplanes what it has done for autos. Corn grower leaders point out that the tax credit from the IRA will be crucial to ensuring ethanol is quickly made available in the aviation sector. A decision will get made this month. *********************************************************************************** U.S. and India Resolve Outstanding WTO Poultry Dispute U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai says the U.S. and India resolved their last outstanding dispute at the World Trade Organization. As a part of the agreement, India also agreed to reduce tariffs on U.S. products like frozen turkey, frozen duck, and fresh and frozen blueberries and cranberries. Tai says the tariff cuts will expand economic opportunities for American agricultural producers in a critical market and help bring more U.S. products to consumers in India. “Resolving this last outstanding WTO dispute represents an important milestone in the U.S.-India trade relationship while reducing tariffs on certain American products enhances crucial market access for American farmers,” says Tai. In June, the U.S. and India agreed to terminate six outstanding disputes at the World Trade Organization. India agreed to reduce tariffs on certain U.S. products like lentils, almonds, walnuts, apples, and others. “This agreement resolves a long-standing dispute and deepens the relationship,” Tai adds. *********************************************************************************** August Rainfall Provides Inflow to the Missouri River System Rainfall in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was above normal during August, resulting in above-average runoff. However, because of drier-than-normal conditions in previous years, total storage in the Missouri River reservoir system remains lower than normal. Based on September 1 system storage, releases from the Gavins Point Dam will be 13,000 cubic feet per second, slightly above the minimum rate. “August rainfall provided some inflow into the Upper Missouri River Basin Reservoir System,” says John Remus, chief of the Army Corps’ Missouri River Basin Water Management System. “Some areas received up to 400 percent of normal rainfall.” August runoff was 1.7 million acre-feet, 121 percent above average in Sioux City. The updated 2023 forecast for the upper basin is 29.1-million-acre feet, 113 percent of average. The annual average runoff for the upper basin is 25.7-million-acre fee. The total volume in the System was 55.5 MAF on September 1. *********************************************************************************** New Checkoff Website for the Sheep Industry America’s Lamb producers can now turn to LambBoard.com for resources on checkoff production, promotion, and other programs. The new American Lamb Board site officially launched on September 7. “This is a totally new site for America’s Lamb industry,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair. “That includes commercial and seedstock producers, feeders, direct marketers, sale managers, auction markets, and processors.” He also says it’s home to everything about the American Lamb Board and the checkoff program. A wealth of information is available on the site, including the best practices for sheep productivity and efficiency, lamb quality, and recipes. There are also premium items for local promotions in the ALB store, free downloadable handouts, and details on ALB’s cooperative funding program. Producers can find the latest news and results of the American Lamb Checkoff’s activities and an online assessment payment tool. Producers selling directly to consumers can check out toolkits on marketing to ethnic markets.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday September 11, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. DTN will be watching for any new sales of corn or soybeans, private production estimates, and any weather issues around the globe, especially in Argentina, Brazil and Australia. The September WASDE will be out on Tuesday morning. Weather A front continues to sag through the Corn Belt on Monday. It brought scattered showers to many areas over the weekend and continues its pursuit to the Southeast with more showers. Heavier precipitation will likely remain relegated to the Plains, though some bursts through the Midwest will also be possible.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 8, 2023 |

Federal Reserve Releases August Beige Book The Federal Reserve released its August Beige Book update, a summary of commentary on current economic conditions from the Fed. The report includes several observations on the U.S. agricultural economy. Drought was affecting several of the Fed’s districts across the country. In the Tenth District, the Kansas City Fed says the farm economy was strong, but conditions softened alongside lower commodity prices and persistent drought. In the Eleventh District in Dallas, a significant portion of the district entered or re-entered drought during the past six weeks. In the Minneapolis Fed’s Ninth District, prices were retreating to levels that could be below break-even for some producers because of high input costs. In the Eighth District of St. Louis, the percentage of cotton and rice rated fair or better stayed stable despite record-breaking heat and heat-dome-induced thunderstorms. In the Twelfth District of San Francisco, conditions in the agriculture and resource-related sectors remained largely unchanged. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Reorganizes Leadership The National Milk Producers Federation announced staff reorganization as it transitions to new leadership. Incoming President and CEO Gregg Doud began working with the organization as the organization’s Chief Operating Officer, a position he will hold until the current President and CEO Jim Mulhern retires in January. “I am excited to announce these changes, which will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of our structure,” Mulhern says. “They also recognize the contributions of the affected individuals to our overall success.” He also says these changes also position the organization well for even greater success in the future. NMPF named three new Executive Vice Presidents as part of the reorganization, recognizing responsibilities that are expanding across NMPF teams. Paul Bleiberg is the Executive Vice President of Government Relations, Shawna Morris is the Executive VP of Trade Policy and Global Affairs, and Alan Bjerga is the Executive VP of Communications and Industry Relations. *********************************************************************************** CAB Launches New Direct-to-Consumer Program Certified Angus Beef launched a brand-new Ranch to Table Program. That means Angus farmers and ranchers now have the option to market their beef directly to consumers as a CAB product. Ranch to Table is a direct partnership program between CAB and cattle operations using Angus genetics that allows ranchers to use the brand’s trusted reputation for increased gain. “This is another way for Angus ranchers to continue taking pride in and having equity in the brand by being able to hang brand standards on those cattle that ultimately qualify,” says Kara Lee, director of producer engagement for CAB. To participate in the program, a producer’s cattle must incorporate registered Angus genetics, which may require American Angus Association active membership or proof of bull registrations. Producers must also be Beef Quality Assurance certified. As with any CAB product, the cattle must meet the brand’s live-animal evaluation with a predominantly solid-black hide. *********************************************************************************** Another Challenge to GMOs The Center for Food Safety filed a legal appeal against the USDA in response to its genetically engineered labeling rules. The organization says those rules do not mandate clear on-package food labeling and allow unlabeled hidden GMOs to proliferate in the U.S. food marketplace. The CFS was victorious in a 2022 district court ruling in its original USDA lawsuit, which found it unlawful to use inaccessible digital QR codes on food products instead of clear and accessible labeling. Despite the decision, the court refused to vacate USDA’s decision allowing this practice. “USDA is hiding the presence of the majority of GMO food ingredients from American consumers with its exemption for highly-refined foods despite a law passed by Congress,” says Meredith Stevenson, CFS attorney. “The Court rubber-stamped USDA’s decision to exclude highly refined foods like sodas and oils from labeling and use unfamiliar terminology, keeping consumers in the dark about their food.” *********************************************************************************** The First Autonomous Tractor Arrived at the University of Missouri It took more than a year, but University of Missouri researchers welcomed the arrival of one of the nation’s first-of-its-kind electric, autonomous tractors. It’s known as the Monarch MK-V tractor. Researchers called it a “revolutionary piece of technology” that will get studied for its ability to refine agricultural practices and support farmers with disabilities. The University received the tractor as part of a grant awarded by the USDA’s Equipment Grants Program. The new tractor, to be charged with a biofuel generator, will serve as a tool for teaching and research in the agriculture and engineering programs. Researchers will explore the autonomous functions of the tractor, like making use of the sensors and cameras to collect images and then store the data from those images. They also want to understand the tractor’s ability to use artificial intelligence to enhance precision agriculture. Researchers are quite excited about the next generation of technology. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Breaks Soybean Export Record with Surprise Sales The University of Illinois Farmdoc Daily says Brazil’s farmers are shipping out a lot of soybeans. Brazil’s farmers harvested almost 160 million tons of soybeans during the previous crop season. That resulted in record exports in the first seven months of 2023. Price competitiveness led to a significant increase in the volume of soybeans shipped to China. Brazil also benefited from sales to a nation that’s not on its regular customers list: Argentina, the third-largest soybean producer behind Brazil and the U.S. Argentina lost almost half its soybean crop because of drought. To meet its crushing industry contracts for soybean oil and meal, Argentina purchased Brazilian soybeans and became the second-leading destination for Brazil’s soybeans after China. Argentina is also losing its top position as soybean meal exporter this season, giving up its spot to neighboring Brazil. Brazil’s soybean exports reached 72.47 million tons during the first seven months of 2023.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 8, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. government reports are scarce on Friday with only wholesale Inventories and the consumer credit report. The weekly Export Sales report will be released at 7:30 a.m. CDT. DTN will be watching for grain and soybean export sales on Friday, and weather issues in primarily Australia and Brazil. Weather A front remains across the East and portions of the Southern Plains Friday. Some clusters of thunderstorms will be possible in both areas. Another system is moving into the Northern Plains and will develop some isolated showers. But most areas will be dry with mild temperatures.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 7, 2023 |

Monthly Monitor Forecasts a Positive Crop Outlook The University of Missouri’s Monthly Monitor surveys economists nationwide about their projections for agricultural trends. The report, compiled by the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center and Farm Journal, is forecasting a positive outlook for farm finances even as the weather has created significant challenges in North America. July’s results showed more optimism than the previous Monthly Monitor in June. Economists seem to be more positive about the crop side of the ag economy compared to livestock. Sixty-four percent of the economists surveyed were positive about crops, and 55 percent had a negative view of livestock. Despite the weather challenges, farmers are seeing continued productivity and efficiency gains that lead to strong balance sheets. Looking ahead, the economists say global competition and geopolitical risks could impact crop prices in the next six months. In livestock, economists worry about feed costs and how they could affect livestock prices and profitability. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Testifies at FMMO Hearing American Farm Bureau Federation Chief Economist Roger Cryan testified at the ongoing Federal Milk Marketing Order Pricing Formula hearing. Farm Bureau membership includes cooperatives and independent dairy farmers, most of whom are directly or indirectly affected by the pricing provisions in the FMMOs. Farm Bureau’s testimony focused on the reduction or elimination of negative producer price differentials and the de-pooling they cause. An orderly pool is the key to orderly marketing and the continued benefits of the Federal Milk Marketing Orders for farmers, cooperatives, processors, and consumers. The key to an orderly pool is the proper alignment of the four Class prices. Other proposals include supporting the National Milk Producers Federation’s suggestion to drop barrel cheese from Class 3 component and price calculations. AFBF also proposes that 640-pound blocks get added to the National Dairy Sales Report, to the cheddar cheese price calculation, and to the Class 3 protein calculation. *********************************************************************************** Stabenow, Boozman Want USDA Funds for Market Development The National Corn Growers Association applauds Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and John Boozman (R-AR) for sending a letter to the USDA on increasing market development opportunities. The Senate Ag Committee leaders want the agency to allocate funding from the Commodity Credit Corporation to support creating new and better market opportunities for farmers, as well as in-kind international food assistance. “Cultivating new foreign markets is one of our top priorities,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (HAYG). The letter says, “Farm bill trade promotion programs help address the need to build new markets. We believe that resources available under the CCC can support similar efforts to open access to markets and promote American-grown products overseas.” The CCC funds are used by government to implement specific programs established by or to carry out activities under the CCC Charter Act. NCGA has called on Congress to increase investments in these programs. *********************************************************************************** Idalia Kills at Least Five Million Chickens in Florida Almost a week after Hurricane Idalia hit Florida, the livestock body count is climbing higher, especially in poultry operations. The Messenger says estimates say as many as five million chickens died from the Category Three storm. Winds were around 125 mph when the storm hit land. The hurricane tore apart barns and fence lines and killed livestock from cattle to chickens. Chicken coops were ripped apart by high winds or high waters, and many coops were crushed by falling trees. The chickens that survived the storm were seen roaming around looking for food as their feeders were destroyed in the storm. Many others died in the heat and humidity. The storm hit farmers hard, tearing up crops and multiple livestock facilities. A spokeswoman for the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences says the actual death count of poultry could take months after all the assessments are completed. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grant Helping Promote Sustainable Aviation Fuel Gevo (JEE-voh), Incorporated, announced that it’s received a $30 million grant from USDA for its Climate-Smart Farm-to-Flight Program. The grant is from USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. The Gevo program is intended for tracking and quantifying the carbon-intensity impact of climate-smart practices while creating market incentives for low-carbon-intensity corn to help accelerate the production of sustainable aviation fuel and low-CI ethanol. “Our Farm-to-Flight Program aims to count all the carbon at the field level and reward farmers on a performance basis for delivering low-CI corn, as well as to accelerate the production of SAF to reduce dependency on fossil-based fuel,” says Dr. Paul Bloom, Chief Carbon Officer and Chief Innovation Officer for Gevo. “The program will also focus on deploying our Verity Tracking platform to farmers to help them measure, report, and verify their CI reductions.” The grant will also help count all carbon through the entire business system and reward farmers. *********************************************************************************** Governors Standing Firm on States’ Rights in the Farm Bill Groups like Competitive Markets Action and the Organization for Competitive Markets applauded the National Governors Association for urging Congress to prioritize the next farm bill. The co-chairs of the NGA’s Education, Workforce, and Community Investment Task Force sent a letter to Congressional leaders urging them to consider several key priorities for the new bill. The governors emphasized the importance of avoiding preempting state-level laws regarding agricultural production. They said, “States succeed when the federal government avoids granting a private right of action against states that maintain their own production or manufacturing standards on agricultural products.” The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act is a controversial bill currently being considered by Congress. The groups say it would upend states’ rights by nullifying more than a thousand state and local agriculture laws. Marty Irby, president of Competitive Markets Action, says they applaud the Governors Association for advocating on behalf of farmers and states’ rights.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday September 7, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's report on U.S. productivity is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, along with weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10:00 a.m. Weather Temperatures across most of the Corn Belt are mild, with some higher temperatures briefly in the far west the next couple of days. A front has essentially cleared the region with showers on the periphery, some of which may be stronger across the East, Southern Plains, and Nebraska later Thursday. It remains hot in and around Texas.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 6, 2023 |

Lower Beef Demand in Most Worldwide Markets Other than in the U.S., beef markets around the world are seeing softer consumer demand. A Rabobank Q3 Global Beef Quarterly Report says cattle prices are split into two groups: those in North America and Europe, and those in the rest of the world. Declining supplies and strong consumer demand in the U.S. are driving cattle prices higher, and lower domestic beef supply has also held up prices in Canada and Europe. It’s the opposite in most other regions, where increased supply and lower demand are making prices softer. Rabobank says U.S. cattle prices have increased almost 30 percent over the past 12 months, while Australian cattle prices have dropped by more than 30 percent, calling it the largest spread they’ve seen in the past decade. In a number of regions, particularly in Asia, beef purchases made in anticipation of COVID recovery haven’t been consumed yet, leaving supply chains full. *********************************************************************************** Farmer Sentiment Drops in August Producer sentiment lowered during August as the Purdue University/CME Group’s Ag Economy Barometer dipped eight points to a reading of 115. The month’s decline was driven by producers’ weaker perception of current conditions on their farms and throughout U.S. agriculture. The Current Conditions Index fell 13 points to a reading of 108. The Future Expectations Index also dropped by five points to a reading of 119 in August. Rising interest rates and concerns about high input prices continue putting downward pressure on producer sentiment. When asked about their top concerns over the next year, 34 percent of survey respondents said higher input prices and 24 percent said rising interest rates. Even though crop prices weakened during the summer, only one in five producers chose declining commodity prices as one of their top concerns. The Farm Capital Investment Index was lower this month, dropping eight points to a reading of 37. *********************************************************************************** FAPRI Releases U.S. Baseline Outlook The Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute at the University of Missouri released its annual U.S. Baseline Outlook report. It includes projections for agricultural and biofuel markets and helps in evaluating alternative scenarios for agricultural policy. “Projected prices for most crops, poultry, and dairy products all retreat in 2023 from recent peaks, and so do some production expenses,” says FAPRI Director Pat Westhoff. Among the findings, the report says if weather conditions allow crop yields to return to trend-line levels in 2023, prices for corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, and many other crops are likely to fall. Higher fertilizer, fuel, and feed costs contributed to a very sharp increase in farm production costs last year, but a smaller increase is projected in 2023. Lower prices in some inputs will likely bring down production costs in 2024 and 2025. Hog, poultry, and dairy prices will fall, but beef prices will remain high. *********************************************************************************** Entries Open for 2024 Dairy Checkoff’s New Product Competition Dairy Management, Inc. is accepting applications from college students for the 2024 New Product Competition. The competition seeks innovative dairy product concepts and is open to undergraduate and graduate students in the U.S. DMI wants students to develop innovative, dairy-based products for health and wellness consumers. Successful entries must meet competition criteria, demonstrate innovation, and provide value to consumers. The competition is an opportunity for students to develop new products in line with current industry and consumer insights to uncover innovative dairy-based products for health and wellness. Consumers are emphasizing health and wellness, so they’re looking for products that provide benefits to digestion, immunity, joint health and mobility, and overall health. The judging panel will include experts from across the dairy industry. Winning teams get recognized at the American Dairy Science Association’s annual meeting in West Palm Beach, Florida, from June 16-19, 2024. The contest will award a combined $27,000. *********************************************************************************** Agriculture On Guard Against Cyber-Attacks Agriculture has seen increasing online attacks in recent years. Global AgTech says technology makes running daily operations easier and helps increase output. Different types of technology help with efficiency, yield, and profitability, and they include computers, robotics, drones, software, and vehicles. One of the biggest reasons agriculture has become an online target is due to the vital role it plays in the country’s economy. Farms are also considered easy targets. Many farmers haven’t implemented cybersecurity measures and are unaware of the vital role those measures play in the success of their operations. Industry experts recommend farmers implement security measures to protect their businesses. Among some of the recommended best practices, farmers should have a dedicated contingency plan. It’s also important to protect all login information. Make sure to put measures in place to protect against phishing attacks. It’s also very important to install antivirus software and make sure it stays updated. *********************************************************************************** World Record Soybean Yield Set in Georgia Alex Harrell of Smithville, Georgia, set the world record for soybean yield with an average of 296.7 bushels per acre. The yield was harvested on August 23 and verified by the University of Georgia Extension Service. “We knew it was going to be good, but maybe not quite this good,” says Alex Harrell. “There’s no silver bullet when it comes to high yields, but it’s important to have good products, people, and timing.” Harrell’s world record soybean yield is indicative of advancements in precision breeding, biotechnology, and increased knowledge of farm management practices. Harrell experienced favorable conditions through the growing season. Only two significant weather events with excess rain caused emergence challenges and some flooding. “I’m used to soybeans being in the average range of about 40 bushels an acre,” says Doug Collins, University of Georgia Lee County Extension Agent. “Neither Alex nor I thought the yield would be that high.”

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday September 6, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will report on the U.S. trade deficit for July at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest weather forecasts and news from Ukraine. Weather A front that pushed through the Western and Central Corn Belt on Tuesday will move through eastern areas on Wednesday. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected with the front, some of which may be stronger. The front will not make it down through the Southern Plains, though. Temperatures behind the front are significantly cooler than the extreme heat noted ahead and south of it.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 5, 2023 |

RMA Makes Changes to Whole Farm Revenue Protection Policies The USDA announced it is improving crop insurance options for small and diversified farmers by improving the Whole-Farm Revenue Protection and Micro Farm Insurance plans. The updates are a part of the Risk Management Agency’s efforts to increase participation and access to crop insurance. “The improvements in both policies are a direct response from feedback we’ve received from producers,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “These are two of the most comprehensive risk management plans available, and they are especially important to specialty crop, organic, urban, and direct-market producers.” Changes to the Whole-Farm policy include allowing all eligible producers to qualify for 80 and 85 percent coverage levels. Producers will also be able to purchase catastrophic coverage level policies for individual crops. Micro Farm policy improvements include moving the sales closing date to a less busy time of year, especially helpful for agents to assist growers with important risk management decisions. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: Drought, Heat Threaten Soybean Crop at a Critical Stage Prolonged drought and record heat are threatening soybean yields in several key growing states across the Midwest. With most of the soybean crop still in the critical pod-setting phase that depends on August moisture, persistent dry conditions are lowering yield production and raising concerns about the availability of supplies. CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange did research that found soybeans have a much tighter supply situation than corn due to the loss of planted acres. “If hot and dry conditions continue in the Midwest and yield loss for soybeans increases, the U.S. soybean supply will tighten further,” says Tanner Ehmke, lead grains and oilseeds economist for CoBank. “That will result in stronger interior cash basis and lower exports.” More pods will likely get aborted if the hot and dry conditions continue. In addition to drought and heat stress, scouts on the recent Pro Farmer Crop Tour noticed sudden death syndrome across multiple soybean fields. *********************************************************************************** What’s Ahead for the Farmland Market? Recent farmland sale prices and values have increased to levels never before seen in the agricultural land market. Paul Shadegg (SHAH-deg), senior vice president of Real Estate Operations at Farmers National, says the momentum in the farmland market began building 25 years ago. But is it sustainable moving forward? There continues to be strong interest in buying ag land across the U.S. Both individual buyers and land investors have created this competitive atmosphere in the agricultural real estate market. Shadegg and Farmers National predict that will increase moving through the second half of 2023. At the same time, properties offered to the market will likely be limited, which will help sustain current values. They also expect to see a plateau in land values based on past agriculture cycles and a new normal in land values. Land values will continue to be driven by buyer competition and available supply for sale. *********************************************************************************** Barge Freight Rates Climb on Lower Water Levels The cost of transporting harvested commodities down the Mississippi River is climbing. The rates are rapidly rising as shrinking water levels drive barge freight rates higher. The forecast calling for below-average rainfall isn’t offering any relief. Bloomberg says barge spot rates on August 29 were up 49 percent from the prior week and 42 percent from last year at $23.34 per ton. USDA data says that’s 85 percent higher than the three-year average. Last year, extremely low water levels stranded more than 2,000 barges on the Mississippi River, bringing commerce to a halt on the waterway. The Mississippi River carries more than 45 percent of all U.S. agricultural exports to ports in the South. Water levels resumed dropping in June, restricting the amount of grain allowed on each barge. In turn, that leads to a tighter supply of barges as more of them are required to transport the same amount of grain. *********************************************************************************** West Coast Port Workers Ratify Contract Dock workers at West Coast ports ratified a six-year contract that improved pay and benefits for 22,000 employees at 29 ports from California to Washington state. Members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union voted 75 percent in favor of approving the West Coast port worker agreement that runs until 2028. Reuters says longshore workers covered by the agreement are based at some of the busiest seaports in the nation, including the Port of Los Angeles/Long Beach, which is the busiest ocean trade gateway in the U.S. “The contract negotiations were protracted and challenging,” says ILWU International President Willie Adams. The union and the Pacific Maritime Association employer group reached a tentative agreement back in June, ending 13 months of talks. The agreement eased worries that more West Coast disruptions could hit the all-important retail holiday shipping season. West Coast ports lost business to others on the East and Gulf Coasts. *********************************************************************************** Drought Intensifies in the Weekly Drought Monitor The weekly Drought Monitor showed drought getting worse across areas in the Midwest, South, Southwest, and the Pacific Northwest. In the Midwest, extreme heat impacted areas like Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Illinois. Record high temps were set in cities like Chicago (98), Milwaukee (101), and Minneapolis (101). Areas in the South, including the Texas Gulf Coast, Louisiana, and Southern Mississippi, saw continued drought-related deterioration on this week’s map. Temperatures continued to push over 100 degrees during the week, breaking records. Houston reached 109, San Antonio hit 104, Austin was 107, and Dallas topped out at 109. Some areas on the map did see some improvement, including southern Texas, where heavy rains from Tropical Storm Harold provided much-needed relief to the region. Rainfall accumulation along the southern Gulf Coast and South Texas Plains regions ranged from two to six inches. In the Southeast, areas of Florida were impacted by Hurricane Idalia.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 5, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Seed Buying, Looming Harvest, South America Planting Season Get Focus OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Sept. 3. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Markets closed Monday: Reminder that commodity markets are closed for the Labor Day weekend on both sides of the U.S./Canada border. Our coverage will pick up late Monday night and DTN subscribers will see updates in our Tuesday Early Word and Before the Bell pieces. 2. Harvest looms: DTN reporters are beginning to hear of fields being opened up in the Corn Belt. Watch for news from the field as it comes in and look for the latest on propane prices and expectations as drying season begins. 3. Land values stay strong: We're continuing to watch land sales after some interesting numbers of late, we'll have additional sales information from the staff and from the pages of Progressive Farmer magazine. 4. Weather eyes shift South: While harvest weather is top of mind, the grain trade is beginning to shift its gaze below the equator as Brazil, Argentina and other South American producers begin to pull planters into the field. Expect continued updates on their weather and prospects from the DTN meteorological team. 5. Seed-buying season: Seed-buying season gets earlier and earlier. The September issue of Progressive Farmer magazine is chock-full of articles to help you think through your choices for next year's seed lineup.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday September 5, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, traders will pay close attention to the latest changes in weather and any news regarding Ukraine and Russia. OPEC is also expected to make an announcement regarding oil production this week. USDA's weekly grain export inspections are due out at 10 a.m. Tuesday, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A system and cold front are moving through the Northern Plains early Tuesday with scattered showers, followed by much cooler temperatures. The system will move through the central Corn Belt throughout the day, bringing scattered showers especially to northern areas, but also some isolated showers for other parts of the Corn Belt as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 1, 2023 |

USDA Funding Will Help Farmers Lower Energy Costs Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says his agency is awarding $266 million in loans and grants to agriculture producers and rural small businesses. The funds will be for making investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements that will lower energy costs, generate new income, and strengthen the resilience of their operations. “Creating opportunity for rural communities means investing in farmers, ranchers, and small businesses,” Vilsack says. “These funds will make sure our producers and business owners are not only a part of the clean energy economy but are also directly benefiting from it.” The secretary also says these once-in-a-generation investments in renewable energy, like wind and solar, and energy-efficient technologies create new markets and deliver real cost savings for our small and mid-sized agricultural operations and Main Street businesses, building and keeping wealth in rural America. The department is making the funds available through the Rural Energy for America Program. *********************************************************************************** EPA is Right to Deny Refinery Exemptions Growth Energy, the nation’s largest biofuels trade association, filed briefs to intervene in three cases this week to support the Environmental Protection Agency. More specifically, Growth Energy supports the agency’s decisions to deny small-refinery exemptions for refiners who are seeking to avoid complying with their blending obligations under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, says petitioners have tried over and over again to avoid complying with the RFS because less biofuel in America’s fuel supply means more money in their pockets. “Thankfully, EPA has continued to rightly deny the exemptions, having demonstrated again and again that refiners have no good reason not to meet their blending obligations,” she says. “In this week’s filings, Growth Energy continues to seek to defend the RFS, which is the nation’s most successful climate policy to date, from any attempts to weaken it.” The filings in each case are available at growthenergy.org. *********************************************************************************** Brazil Now the World’s Biggest Corn Exporter For more than 50 years, U.S. farmers were dominant in the international corn market, far and away shipping more corn than anyone else to help feed the world’s stockpiles and manufacture food. A Bloomberg article says that’s no longer the case. In the agricultural year that ended on August 31, the U.S. gave up that top spot in corn exporting to Brazil, and it might not be coming back in the near future. In the 2023 harvest year, Brazil will dominate the world’s global corn exports at 32 percent, well ahead of the 23 percent of corn shipped by the U.S. into the export market. America has only dropped out of the top spot once, doing so in 2013 because of a severe drought. Losing the lead in corn exports may unfortunately be familiar to U.S. producers, who lost the top spot in soybean and wheat exports during the last ten years. *********************************************************************************** U.S. and Canadian Cattle Herds Drop Three Percent Downsizing in the U.S. and Canadian cattle herds continued through the first half of 2023. All cattle and calves in the U.S. and Canada combined to total 108 million head on July 1, 2023, down three percent from the 111 million head on July 1, 2022. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 43.4 million head, were down two percent from last year. All cattle and calves in the U.S. totaled 95.9 million head on July 1, 2023, down three percent from July 1, 2022. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 38.8 million head, were down two percent from a year ago. All cattle and calves in Canada as of July 1, 2023, totaled 12.2 million head, down one percent from the 12.3 million head on July 1 of last year. All cows and heifers that have calved totaled 4.62 million head, down one percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** World’s Rice Supplies Get Tighter Rice prices are climbing around the world as supplies get tighter. Key exporting countries like Thailand and Vietnam have seen rice prices climb as much as 20 percent since India banned shipments of a key rice variety in July. India is the world’s largest shipper of the grain, and the export ban is squeezing global supplies. Reuters says traders expect similar export cuts by other countries that need to ensure their domestic food security. That’s leaving importers scrambling to acquire other shipments of rice. India banned exports of broken rice last year and imposed a duty on shipments of various grades of rice. That ended price stability that ran for over ten years. India did allow traders to ship out non-basmati white rice cargoes that were stuck in ports when India imposed its export ban. India’s farmers have planted 89.2 million acres of rice, 4.3 percent higher than last year. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production Hits Three-Month Low The Energy Information Administration says ethanol output dropped to a three-month low while inventories hit the lowest point since November. Ethanol production dropped to an average of 1.007 million barrels a day during the week ending on August 25. The EIA report says that’s down from 1.048 million barrels during the previous week and the lowest level since May 26. In the Midwest, by far the largest-producing region in the country, output dropped to 952,000 barrels a day from 992,000 the prior week. Rocky Mountain production fell by 2,000 barrels a day to 11,000. That was the entirety of the losses as West Coast output was unchanged at 10,000 barrels a day. East Coast and Gulf Coast production each rose by 1,000 barrels per day, coming in at 13,000 barrels a day and 22,000 barrels a day, respectively. Ethanol inventories dropped to 21.61 million barrels, the lowest since November 11.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday September 1, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for August are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday. Indices of world manufacturing activity will come in overnight and the U.S. index is due out at 9 a.m. NASS will report on Fats and Oils and Grain Crushings at 2 p.m. Weather As we begin meteorological fall, temperatures are increasing in the Plains and will continue to spread eastward through the weekend. A small disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico may provide some showers along the central coast, but most areas will stay dry today.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 31, 2023 |

U.S. Ag Groups React Negatively to WOTUS Changes U.S. ag groups and elected officials all expressed disappointment with the revised Waters of the U.S. rule issued this week by the Environmental Protection Agency. “The agency failed to open the process to public comment, which would have been extremely valuable,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (HAYG). American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates says, “These revisions are window dressing and leave in place much of the rule’s confusing and harmful foundations.” Corey Rosenbusch, president of The Fertilizer Institute, says they’re disappointed in the agency’s disregard for both the procedural need to invite public input for consideration and for May’s Supreme Court ruling. House Ag Committee Chair Glenn Thompson says EPA’s “sleight-of-hand” in circumventing the rulemaking process leaves the door open to agency abuse and uncertainty for U.S. agriculture. Darren Coppock (COP-uhck), president and CEO of the Ag Retailers Association, says this is a missed opportunity by the EPA. *********************************************************************************** Farm Futures Releases 2024 Planting Estimates Farmers are gearing up for the 2023 harvest season with an eye already on next year’s crop. A Farm Futures August survey finds growers are expecting to plant 93.1 million acres of corn in 2024, down one percent from this year’s total acreage. Shrinking revenue prospects amid relatively high costs will likely tighten profit margins for the 2024 crop, giving alternative crops more opportunity for acreage next spring. Soybeans are one crop that farmers expect to plant more of next year. Farmers in the survey expect a two percent increase in soybean acres next spring at a total of 85.4 million acres. Wheat acres are also expected to expand. Winter wheat acres are forecast to be five percent higher at 38.7 million acres, and spring wheat acres will rise eight percent to 52.7 million acres. If those predictions prove true, this would be the largest wheat acreage planted since 2015. *********************************************************************************** Senators Show Opposition to EATS Act In another show of opposition to the EATS Act, 30 senators sent a letter to Ag Committee leaders opposing a sweeping bill to nullify state agricultural laws called the EATS Act. The letter came a week after 172 House members signed a similar letter addressed to House Ag Committee leaders. Over 200 federal lawmakers spanning 35 states have publicly stated that neither the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act nor anything similar should be a part of the upcoming farm bill. “It’s not one state that’s trying to foist its standards on the rest of the country,” says Sara Amundson, president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. “It’s the NPPC that’s trying to force every state to accept the terms of any other state that chooses not to ensure humane safety standards for agricultural products within its borders.” Additionally, 577 veterinary professionals and 78 veterinary students signed letters opposing the EATS Act. *********************************************************************************** Grape Growers Have New Insurance Program Against Natural Hazards The USDA is expanding crop insurance options with a new grapevine insurance program. It will provide coverage for the loss of grafted vines caused by natural perils like frost or fire. The new program will also complement the grape crop insurance program that covers the fruit growing on the vine. “We strive to offer the strongest risk management resources for our nation’s agricultural producers,” says Marcia Bunger, administration of the Risk Management Agency. ‘Sometimes that’s by improving an already existing product or creating a new product like this one to fill a gap.” It’s especially critical when you realize that the loss of fruit can affect a grower for a season, but losing a grapevine is a much costlier situation in terms of the money and time needed to reestablish a productive vine. The program pays losses when the vine is dead or so badly damaged that it won’t recover within a year. *********************************************************************************** Farm Incomes Flatten in the Second Quarter The Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank’s Second Quarter ag credit conditions survey shows that after several strong years of growth, that stalled in 2023. Compared to earlier this year, farm incomes dropped slightly from April through June. Spending on capital equipment also dropped while farm household purchases increased. More than a third of ag bankers surveyed in the Ninth District said farm incomes decreased in the second quarter of this year compared to 2022. Thirty-nine percent of the lenders report that borrower liquidity had dropped in the past three months compared to last year. The Fed also says despite the falling incomes, lenders haven’t seen a boost in loan demand and the rate of loan repayment remained strong. Loan renewals and extensions also remained steady. Farmland values rose, as did cash rents. The third-quarter outlook calls for further farm income declines, though the overall financial conditions are expected to stay relatively stable. *********************************************************************************** Unified Vision Driving Beef Checkoff Success The Federation of State Beef Councils has supported an effective and coordinated state and national Checkoff partnership since 1963. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff and state beef councils, continues setting a positive course for beef. Recent program successes include Nutrition Research which serves as the foundation for all Beef Checkoff-funded initiatives. Nutrition research proves beef has a role in a healthy and sustainable diet. The National Beef Quality Audit is the foundational research providing an understanding of what quality means to the various industry sectors. The 2022 NBQA results showed that the industry is more efficiently producing a high-quality product that consumers want. One of the industry’s top focus areas across the supply chain remains food safety. Cow-calf producers, stockers, and feedyards implement Beef Quality Assurance practices on their operations to produce the highest-quality cattle and the best possible eating experience for consumers.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 31, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending in August, the index of personal consumption expenditures for July and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. Thursday. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m. Weather With Idalia continuing to move further offshore on Thursday morning, it will be a largely quiet day across most of the U.S. Some isolated showers will be possible across the north and near the Gulf of Mexico, but that should be it. Though still milder in the Eastern Corn Belt, temperatures are starting to rise in the Western Corn Belt, though extreme heat is still a day or two away.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 30, 2023 |

EPA and Army Amend “Waters of the United States” Rule The Environmental Protection Agency and the Army Corps of Engineers Tuesday announced a final rule amending the 2023 definition of “waters of the United States.” The final rule intends to conform with the recent Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA. With this action, the Army Corps of Engineers will resume issuing all jurisdictional determinations. The rule will take effect immediately. In response, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart says, “Today’s revised WOTUS definition is an important step toward bringing the EPA more in line with the Supreme Court's ruling." AFBF President Zippy Duvall says the EPA chose to continue government overreach and revise only a small slice of the rule that the Supreme Court rejected. Duvall adds, "We're pleased the vague and confusing 'significant nexus' test has been eliminated as the Supreme Court dictated. But EPA has ignored other clear concerns raised by the Justices, 26 states, and farmers across the country about the rule's failure to respect private property rights and the Clean Water Act." *********************************************************************************** US Cattlemen’s Association Welcomes LIP Update The U.S. Cattlemen's Association applauds recent action by the Department of Agriculture to update the 2023 Livestock Indemnity Program payment rate. Late last week, USDA announced the payment rate for beef calves over 800 pounds will increase from $1244 per head to $1618, an increase of $374. The payment will apply retroactively to all qualifying losses since January 1, 2023. No action is necessary for retroactive payments, and producers will receive an additional payment if applicable. Payments will be queued up for current losses as early as next week. FSA acknowledged that some animals might have lost weight due to extreme weather conditions, and they are working on how to handle those cases. USCA President Justin Tupper says, "A loss in today's market has a significantly higher impact on a producer's bottom line, and the updated indemnity better reflects the value of that animal," while giving thanks to FSA for the update. *********************************************************************************** Study: US Soybean Industry Has $124 Billion Impact on the Economy A new study from the National Oilseed Processors Association and the United Soybean Board highlights how the soybean industry impacts the U.S. economy. This 33-page study analyzes the soybean value chain’s impact on the U.S. economy based on data from crop years 2019/20 to 2021/22. The data shows the total economic impact from the U.S. soybean sector averaged $124 billion, including $85.7 billion from soy production and $9.8 billion from soybean processing. The U.S. soy sector accounts for approximately 0.6 percent of the U.S. gross domestic product. There are more than 500,000 individuals involved in soy farm decision-making. This includes 223,000 paid, full-time equivalent jobs and an additional 62,000 family members, beyond growers, who reside on farms and are integral to soybean farming operations. The total wage impact of the sector averaged $10 billion. USB Chair and Missouri farmer Meagan Kaiser says, “It’s reaffirming to see that the U.S. soybean industry has such a tremendous impact on U.S. farmers and the economy overall.” *********************************************************************************** Pivot Bio names Chris Abbott CEO Pivot Bio Tuesday announced Chris Abbot as its Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. As previously announced, Pivot Bio co-founder and current CEO Karsten Temme will become Chief Innovation Officer. Pivot Bio calls Abbot an industry leader and hands-on strategist who has focused his career on agriculture, water, sustainability, and technology. Pivot Bio Board Chairperson Roger Underwood says, "His commercial acumen, financial know-how, and strong relationships across the agriculture industry are exactly what the company needs at this critical juncture to further accelerate our substantial momentum." The company is also announcing another year of rapid growth, with revenue increasing over 60 percent in fiscal year 2023, surpassing $100 million for the first time. It was the fourth consecutive year of growth for revenue and acres. The company anticipates this momentum to continue in 2024. Pivot Bio also revealed plans to increase manufacturing and distribution across the country to support continued growth and expand customer service for growers. *********************************************************************************** Nearly Half of Potatoes Now go into Frozen Products New Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the majority of potatoes in the United States are now sold in processed forms such as frozen, chipped, dehydrated, or canned. With the introduction of french fries as a key side dish in quick-service restaurants, the share of potatoes that go into frozen products has risen in each decade since 1979. As a result, almost half of all potatoes going into food in the United States are now used to create frozen products—most of which are french fries. Meanwhile, the share of potatoes used as fresh table potatoes has declined decade by decade. Per capita frozen potato availability during the pandemic-influenced 2019–21 period, up eight percent from a decade earlier. According to industry data and USDA research in the early 2000s, about 90 percent of frozen french fries move through various food service venues. Quick-service restaurants alone account for about two-thirds of french fry usage. *********************************************************************************** Forest Service Announces Landscape Scale Investments USDA’s Forest Service Tuesday announced it will invest $16.2 million to restore forests across tribal, state and private lands. The funded projects mark the first time the Forest Service will make Landscape Scale Restoration program grants directly available to federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native Corporations to restore priority forest landscapes. The Forest Service selected 64 proposed projects for fiscal year 2023 to help Tribes, state agencies, local governments, and partners restore healthy, resilient, climate-adapted forests, including $3 million to restore landscapes on tribal lands. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore says, "These grants are critical for improving the nation's forests that provide a range of environmental, social, and economic benefits to the American people." The Landscape Scale Restoration program also supports the Forest Service's ten-year strategy to protect communities from catastrophic wildfires. The Forest Service reviewed project requests from federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native Corporations, and selected 11 projects for funding.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 30, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will have an update of second-quarter U.S. GDP at 7:30 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to keep close watch over weather developments and any news regarding Ukraine. Visit DTN at this week's Farm Progress show in Decatur, Illinois, lot 360 on Third Street. Weather A rather quiet day is in store for most of the country outside of the far southeast. Hurricane Idalia, a Category 4 storm, will move into northern Florida this morning, across southeast Georgia and into the Atlantic later Wednesday and Wednesday night. Heavy rainfall, storm surge, and wind damage can be expected from northern Florida through the eastern Carolinas.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 29, 2023 |

Vilsack Making Clean Energy Announcement at Farm Progress Show Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will attend the 2023 Farm Progress Show Wednesday to announce a major investment in clean energy for rural Americans. Wednesday morning, Vilsack will join Representative Nikki Budzinski, an Illinois Democrat, at a meeting of her Agriculture Advisory Council. There, Vilsack will hear firsthand from producers and officials about the state of agriculture in Illinois. Later, Secretary Vilsack will deliver remarks at the main Farm Progress stage. USDA says Vilsack will announce a significant investment to help producers and small businesses in rural communities invest in clean energy systems, improve energy efficiency, lower energy costs, and generate income. Vilsack is scheduled to make the announcement at noon central time, which will be livestreamed at farmprogress.com. Meanwhile, Vilsack announced $808 million to help rural cooperatives and utilities build and improve electric infrastructure Monday. The funding will also help provide clean drinking water and sanitary wastewater systems in rural areas. The announcement will benefit nearly 480,000 people in 36 states and two U.S. territories. *********************************************************************************** USDA Updates Livestock Disaster Payment Rate USDA’s Farm Service Agency updated the Livestock Indemnity Program payment rate recently. The update will support livestock producers in the Midwest who have lost cattle to the extreme heat and humidity experienced this summer. To help indemnify ranchers to reflect a trend towards higher cattle weights in feedlots, the 2023 Livestock Indemnity Program payment rate for beef calves over 800 pounds will increase from $1244 per head to $1618, an increase of $374. The program provides benefits to livestock owners and some contract growers for livestock deaths exceeding normal mortality from eligible adverse weather events, certain predation losses and reduced sales prices due to injury from an eligible loss. Indemnity payments are made at a rate of 75 percent of the prior year's average fair market value of the livestock. The updated payment rate is effective immediately and will be applied retroactively starting January 1, 2023, for all eligible causes of loss, including excessive heat, tornado, winter storms, and other qualifying adverse weather. *********************************************************************************** Farm Credit Farmer-Owned Cooperatives Merger Effective October 1 The merger of Farm Credit of New Mexico and American AgCredit Farm Credit cooperatives will be effective October 1, 2023. The merger will create one Farm Credit Association with enhanced marketplace stability, increased funding capacity, and better access to technology. The voting stockholders of Farm Credit of New Mexico re-voted for the proposed merger after a reconsideration process established by the Farm Credit Administration. American AgCredit CEO Curt Hudnutt says, "This merger makes us a better partner for our customers." Hudnutt will lead the merged American AgCredit, which will have more than 900 employees. The October 1, 2023, effective merger date is pending final Farm Credit Association approval. American AgCredit was chartered in 1916 as part of the nationwide Farm Credit System and is the nation's fourth-largest Farm Credit association. Farm Credit of New Mexico is the largest agricultural lender in New Mexico, a $2 billion cooperative specializing in agricultural lending and related services. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Smoothie Program Expands The results of a checkoff-initiated smoothie program pilot showed increased milk and yogurt consumption and will be offered to more schools this fall. Research shows fruit smoothies are more popular than energy drinks, flavored water, juices and soft drinks with Gen Z consumers. Dairy Management Inc. partnered with Chartwells K12, a food management company that serves more than two million meals in 4,500 schools daily, for the pilot last year. The results were encouraging enough for the company to make the smoothie program available to its entire suite of schools this year. General Mills joined the effort by providing culinary support and training, and Hubert, a food service equipment manufacturer, offered blenders and other materials at a discounted rate. Chefs from Chartwells and General Mills collaborated to produce 30 recipes that contain at least one of the daily recommended servings of dairy and fruit. A survey conducted after the pilot showed a very positive response from students, school food service staff and administrators. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Obesity Rates Grew During First Year of Pandemic Regional obesity rates grew further apart during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. From 2019 to March 2020, adult obesity rates ranged from a low of 36.7 percent in the West to the highest rate at 43.1 percent in the South, a 6.4-percentage point difference. The regional differences expanded to 7.2 percentage points during the first year of the pandemic, from a low of 37.4 percent in the Northeast to a high of 44.6 percent in the Midwest. The West had the lowest adult obesity rate before the pandemic but experienced the largest increase of any region during the first year, a 2.8-percentage point increase. The obesity rate increase in the West was nearly twice that in the South, which had the highest regional obesity rate before the pandemic. The Midwest had the second-highest rate before the pandemic, but increased nearly twice as much as the South, emerging as the region with the highest obesity rate as of March 2021. *********************************************************************************** Gas Lower, Diesel Higher, Ahead of Labor Day Weekend For the first time in over a month, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 4.0 cents from a week ago to $3.78 per gallon. The national average is up 5.8 cents from a month ago but 3.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price rose 3.3 cents in the last week to $4.33 per gallon, 70.7 cents lower than one year ago. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "The drop may be short-lived, as one of the nation's largest refineries partially shut last week after a fire at a storage tank, and as we see more tropical activity that could lead to further disruption." After rallying for seven straight weeks, oil prices have lost some of their luster, much of which can be blamed on continued weakness in China’s economy, and refinery issues in the U.S. limiting how much crude oil refineries will be able to process.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 29, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Statistics Canada will have crop estimates out at 8 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by an index of U.S. consumer confidence at 9:00 a.m. CDT. DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman discuss weather and markets in the DTN building, Lot 360 at the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois, Tuesday through Thursday. Weather A small front moving through the Midwest may produce a few showers on Tuesday and a few more may be found in the High Plains, but it should be a rather quiet day. The Southeast will be more active with a front there as the region waits for Hurricane Idalia to build over the next 24 hours prior to landfall in the Big Bend of Florida on Wednesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 28, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - New Equipment, Land Rental Rates Out This Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Aug. 27. 1. From the Show: We'll have a steady stream of news on the latest equipment, seed, chemicals and other inputs from the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Illinois. You can also hear the latest outlooks and chat with DTN journalists and experts in our building at Lot 360 on the show grounds. DTN's Ag Meteorologist John Baranick and Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will give their thoughts on the weather and markets at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. CDT Tuesday and Wednesday, and at 10 a.m. on Thursday. We'll also have experts talk about the new Farmers for Soil Health signups which can earn you up to $50 per acre for cover crops and other soil health practices. DTN is a partner in this USDA-funded project. 2. Farm rental rates: USDA released its latest farmland cash rental rates by county; look for our story that digs into the data to spot the latest land trends. 3. Cooler weather, until it's not: The weekend's cold front, which knocked 15-20 degrees off of some areas of the country, won't bring a lot of rain to help crop recovery. Best rainfall chances are in the eastern Great Lakes states and the Central Plains, the latter thanks to remnants of Tropical Storm Harold. The break from the heat will last about a week, with models showing above-normal temperatures east of the Rockies as the calendar turns to September. 4. Crop harvest begins: Some of the first corn and soybean plots are beginning to come out. Watch for news on some of the early results. 5. Weekly business reports: (Note: all times are CDT) Monday will see USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. and the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. On Tuesday, we'll have the U.S. consumer confidence index numbers at 9 a.m. On Wednesday, the second-quarter U.S. Gross Domestic Product numbers hit at 7:30 a.m., followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Then Thursday is a busy one, with USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending in August, the index of personal consumption expenditures for July and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor all due at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. That Thursday is also the last day of the 2022-23 crop year for the corn and soybean complexes. On Friday, we'll see U.S. nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for August, due at 7:30 a.m. World manufacturing activity indices come in overnight and the U.S. index is due at 9 a.m. The latest Fats and Oils and Grain Crushings report from NASS is at 2 p.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 28, 2023 |

Pro Farmer Releases National Crop Yield Estimates The Pro Farmer Crop Tour recently wrapped up its 2023 expedition after traveling through corn and soybean fields in multiple states. After predicting yield estimates for each state, Pro Farmer puts all the numbers together to come up with its national harvest predictions for corn and soybeans. Pro Farmer predicts a national corn yield of 14.96 billion bushels and an average yield of 172 bushels per acre. The Pro Farmer national soybean yield prediction is 4.11 billion bushels and an average yield of 49.7 bushels an acre. The national estimates reflect Pro Farmer’s views on production and yields. They consider the data gathered and weather conditions during the Crop Tour, crop maturity, historical differences in Tour data versus USDA’s final yields, and areas outside those sampled on the tour. Based on August FSA-certified acreage data, Pro Farmer increased harvested corn acres by 675,000 from August. They didn’t change the soybean harvested acres. ********************************************************************************** RFA Blasts Panel Report on Ethanol and Emissions The Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan blasting the agency’s Science Advisory Board. The RFA accuses the panel of making misleading and unfounded claims about corn ethanol’s impact on greenhouse gas emissions. In draft commentary sent to Regan, the board attempted to downplay the climate benefits of corn ethanol and recommended that the EPA conduct more extensive research on ethanol’s carbon footprint. “The overwhelming evidence of scientific analysis and data clearly show that corn starch ethanol significantly reduces GHG emissions relative to the gasoline it replaces,” says RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We adamantly disagree with the SAB’s statement saying the ‘best available science’ suggests there are minimal, or no climate benefits related to substituting corn ethanol for gasoline.” Cooper also points out that no scientists with biofuels industry experience were invited to participate in the working group when putting the board together. *********************************************************************************** McConnell: Farm Bill Will Be Late Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell says Congress will deliver a farm bill, but not likely in September. Roll Call says McConnell told the Kentucky Farm Bureau that Congress is running out of working days on the legislative calendar before the current law expires on September 30. McConnell is one of the highest-ranking members of Congress to admit the timeline for a new farm bill is shifting past September. When asked about reauthorizing the five-year farm bill, McConnell says, “We’ll figure it out.” While the current bill runs out on September 30, it looks like the new deadline for farm legislation will be December 31. On January 1, some American farm policies will revert to 1940s-era controls on production and costly price supports. If the farm bill does get pushed to 2024, a one-year extension becomes likely as it’s a presidential election year, and both parties will battle for Congressional control. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Drought Monitor Shows Spotty Improvement The weekly U.S. Drought Monitor saw improvements in parts of California and Nevada because of the impacts of Tropical Storm Hilary. The storm brought record-breaking rainfall accumulations and incidents of flash flooding and mudslides. In the Midwest, light precipitation accumulations fell in northern Wisconsin, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and northern Michigan. Drought conditions worsened in areas of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois, where both short and long-term precipitation deficits continue. Areas of Moderate Drought (D1) and Severe Drought (D2) were removed in Michigan. No changes were made this week in the Plains states, while some minor improvements took place in northwest Wyoming, and some conditions worsened in South Central Colorado. While some improvement took place in areas of Kansas and Nebraska, long-term dry signals remain in place through most of the region. In the South, drought-related conditions continued deteriorating as the hot and dry pattern continued across most of the region. *********************************************************************************** Record-Low Number of Federal Wage and Hour Investigations of Farms The Economic Policy Institute says employers routinely underpay farm workers, among other workplace violations, but federal investigations into problems like these have dropped to an all-time low. The institute says that’s likely because of funding and staffing constraints. A new report says Congress must increase funding for labor standards enforcement to protect farmworkers. Since 2000, the Labor Department’s Wage and Hour Division has seen investigations drop by more than 60 percent. The division only has 810 investigators to protect all 165 million workers in the U.S. That means fewer than one percent of farm employers get investigated every year. From 2000 to 2022, H-2A visa program violations accounted for almost half of back wages and civil money penalties owed by farm employers. The EPI wants Congress to stop hobbling the Department of Labor and provide resources for strong investment in farm worker protections. They also want stiffer fines imposed on chronic offenders. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for USDA Trade Mission to Angola USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (so-CHEEL) Torres Small will lead the first-ever agribusiness trade mission to Angola from November 28-December 1. The Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters who want to take part. “When it comes to trade opportunity, Sub-Saharan Africa is both promising and often overlooked,” says Torres Small. “The USDA mission to Angola presents an incredible prospect for U.S. food and agricultural exporters to expand and explore new business opportunities.” Angola is one of the largest markets in Africa, and imports make up more than half of its food market. She says that makes it a perfect location for U.S. exporters to introduce more American-made products to African consumers. Angola has a population of almost 36 million people, many of whom are middle and high-income consumers, which means they’re looking for high-quality imported products. In 2022, U.S. food and ag exports to Angola totaled $236.8 million

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 28, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest forecasts for signs of rain and any new events regarding Ukraine. Monday will have its usual USDA reports of weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A front that crept through the country over the weekend has found itself somewhat stalled across the Southeast on Monday. Scattered showers are forecast there. Another front is dropping south out of Canada and will move through the Midwest Monday night into Tuesday with a few limited showers and a reinforcing snap of cooler air again. Eyes are on the tropics as Tropical Storm Idalia makes its way north into the Gulf of Mexico Monday night as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 25, 2023 |

Drought Threatens Shipping on the Panama Canal The Panama Canal is responsible for facilitating trade as 40 percent of worldwide cargo ship traffic uses it to move between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Marine Insight says almost two-thirds of the canal’s traffic load is either heading to or leaving the United States. The group managing the Canal restricted the number of ships passing through each day, as well as the amount of cargo they could carry. They made the decision because of the decreasing water supply caused by the ongoing drought due to El Niño conditions. That will mean fewer than 34 ships can move through the canal in both directions every day. That’s compared to the 34 to 42 it can handle at peak capacity. The new restrictions are in place until Monday, August 21, and could force companies to find alternative routes. The canal system depends on lakes whose levels are now close to their minimum points. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Publishes 2022 Annual Report Dairy Management, Inc., the planning and management organization running the national dairy checkoff program for America’s dairy farmers and importers posted its 2022 annual report. The report provides checkoff funders and other members of the dairy community with an audited financial report and highlights from 2022 focused on strategies and programs. Those include accelerating dairy sales growth and building trust in dairy foods and dairy farming with youth and other important consumer audiences. “Farmers and importers seek transparency in their checkoff strategies, and the 2022 annual report is a great way to deliver on those expectations,” says Marilyn Hershey, a Pennsylvania farmer and DMI chair. “Our checkoff team works daily to fulfill its goal of building sales and trust in dairy, and this report offers a comprehensive overview of how that plan delivered the results.” More information on the checkoff program’s budget summary and audited financial statements are available at usdairy.com. *********************************************************************************** Breakthrough in Fight Against African Swine Fever Scientists have discovered a gene in pig DNA that’s needed by the deadly African Swine Fever virus to cause an infection. National Hog Farmer says this discovery could be a springboard into the development of pigs resistant to ASF, a swift-acting and severe condition that causes widespread illness and death, leading to steep financial losses for the world’s pork industry. The disease has killed more than 200 million pigs worldwide and is a major issue across Asia. It also has the potential to cause outbreaks in Europe and America. A team of researchers found that the gene is involved in a pig’s immune system and essential for replication of the ASF virus. This finding increases the possibility of changing the gene through gene editing to raise pigs that are resistant to the disease. It could improve how farmers manage the infection for which no vaccine or treatment is currently available. *********************************************************************************** NCGA President Testifies on the Value of Atrazine National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (HAYG) testified Thursday before an Environmental Protection Agency panel on the importance of atrazine to corn farmers. He says NCGA commends the scientific and risk-based analysis and conclusions of the EPA in this reevaluation of the 11 atrazine studies identified by the 2012 Scientific Advisory Panel calling for further review to assess the effects on aquatic plant communities. “NCGA points to conclusions in the white paper that continue to affirm scientific evidence which supports the safe use of atrazine while protecting the vital aquatic plant communities and their related ecosystems,” he says. Haag also points out that management of weeds and their resistance to herbicides is a constant challenge for corn farmers. “Access to atrazine puts an important tool in the hands of U.S. corn growers to effectively adopt conservation practices while managing destructive weeds and delivering an abundant and quality crop,” he says. *********************************************************************************** Potato Exports Break Value and Volume Records America’s potato exports reached record value and volume between July 2022 and June 2023. Export values rose 19 percent to $2.2 billion, and export volume rose almost four percent to 3.3 million metric tons. Those export values increased across all categories, including frozen, fresh, dehydrated, seed, and chips. Double-digit increases in value took place in all categories but seed potatoes. The increase in volume was led by dehydrated potatoes and chips, which rose 25 and 11 percent, respectively. During the year, Mexico became America’s largest potato export market for the first time, followed by Canada and Japan. The entire Mexican market opened to fresh U.S. potato exports in May 2022. The value of exported dehydrated potatoes took the biggest jump, rising 24 percent to reach $257 million. The top destinations for the category were Canada, Japan, and Mexico. Frozen potato exports rose 20 percent in value despite a decrease in volume. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Relaunches its Photo Contest Fields-of-Corn.com, the official photo contest of the National Corn Growers Association is set to relaunch on September 1. Along with a new look that’s built to showcase the rich history of visual storytelling comes a more robust interface for entry. The reboot is just in time for the tenth annual photo contest. “The Fields-of-Corn.com site will house voting for the first time with higher reliability than we had through social media in the past,” says Graphic Communications Manager Beth Musgrove. The contest is open to everyone, and NCGA invites photographers to help tell the story of farming field corn in America. Through this contest, NCGA seeks high-resolution photos to document the rich history of growing corn, captured from seed to harvest as well as the tenacious and hard-working families that grow it. Entries will be accepted through the end of November. Photographers will compete for 26 awards over eight categories.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 25, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment is due out at 9 a.m. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell is expected to speak in Jackson Hole, Wyo., Friday. Knowing energy prices have climbed higher, he will likely mention another rate hike is on the way. Traders continue to pay attention to the latest weather forecasts and any news regarding Ukraine. Weather A pair of fronts across the Corn Belt will be drifting southward on Friday. The extreme heat has ended over northern areas, though it remains hot. The fronts will produce some isolated showers and thunderstorms for the next few days as they move into the South and Southeast. Temperatures will fall back down toward normal after the fronts pass through.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 24, 2023 |

FMMO Hearing Heralds Farmer-Led Progress for Dairy Wednesday marked the first day of a once-in-a-generation hearing on federal milk pricing. USDA’s Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing is underway as dairy producers make their case for changes to the pricing program. National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern says, “Thanks to the tireless efforts of dairy farmers and their cooperatives, this industry is poised for progress as Federal Milk Marketing Order modernization is now in sight.” The industry expects five to seven weeks of testimony and discussion on proposals to modernize the FMMO system. Following USDA’s initial presentations, the hearing will then launch into discussions of specific issues placed within the scope of the hearing. After the hearing’s conclusion, entities involved in the hearing then have a period of time to respond to the testimony, followed by a USDA draft decision, then more discussion, and ultimately a vote among dairy farmers on a final proposal, likely in the second half of 2024. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Funding to Support U.S. Specialty Crop Producers USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service Wednesday announced $72.9 million in grants awarded to 55 states and territories through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The grant program provides funding to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops and support specialty crop growers through marketing, education, and research. Fiscal year 2023 funding is awarded to the departments of agriculture in the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. States are encouraged to sub-award funding to projects that address the needs of U.S. producers of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops. Funded projects include investing in food safety, specialty crop research, including research to focus on conservation and environmental outcomes, developing new and improved seed varieties and specialty crops, and pest and disease control. This year's awards mark over $1 billion invested in nearly 12,000 projects supporting the U.S. specialty crop industry. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Supports EPA Refinery Exemption Decisions Growth Energy has filed a motion to intervene in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, supporting the Environmental Protection Agency’s refinery exemptions decision. The motion is in response to the Hunt Refining Company's lawsuit seeking to reverse the EPA decision to reject unwarranted Small Refinery Exemptions. The motion is just the latest in a series of legal efforts Growth Energy has led to protect the integrity of the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, " EPA made the right call by following the data, which show there is no economic justification for exempting another oil company from its obligations under the RFS." Skor adds, "Past abuse of SREs destroyed demand for billions of gallons of biofuels, undermining our ability to hold down prices at the pump with clean, American renewable fuel.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Lowers Rice Trade Forecasts for 2023 and 2024 Global rice trade forecasts for both calendar year 2023 and 2024 are sharply lowered this month. USDA lowered the forecast in response to India's July 20 immediate ban on further sales of select rice varieties, resulting in urgent buying by some importers and rapid Asian price increases. The 2024 global export forecast is lowered 3.4 million tons to 52.9 million, with exports from India lowered 4.0 million tons to 19.0 million. Increased export forecasts for Brazil, Pakistan, Russia, and Vietnam partially offset the 2024 export reduction for India. For 2023, global exports are reduced 1.9 million tons to 53.8 million, with India's export forecast reduced 2.0 million tons to 20.5 million. Import forecasts are lowered for several major importers in Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa for both 2023 and 2024. The 2023/24 production forecast in the U.S. rice market is raised 1 percent to 203.6 million hundredweight, based on a higher yield of 7,700 pounds per acre. *********************************************************************************** Emergency Allotments Central to SNAP Spending Growth During Pandemic USDA’s Economic Research Service says emergency allotments were central to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program spending growth during the pandemic. SNAP participation and inflation-adjusted spending grew each year from fiscal year 2007–13 following the Great Recession and from FY 2019–21 following the COVID-19 pandemic. Average monthly participation increased faster, for longer, and by a greater amount following the Great Recession than during the pandemic, peaking at 47.6 million participants in FY 2013. Emergency allotments were issued as monthly supplements in response to the pandemic, bringing all recipients’ benefits to the maximum allowed each month beginning in 2020. In 2021, emergency allotments and other disaster supplements accounted for $39.2 billion, almost a third of total spending. Excluding spending on emergency allotments and other disaster supplements, total spending was only $81.6 billion in FY 2021, about $15 billion less than FY 2013 spending, adjusting for inflation. Emergency allotments ended in all states in early 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Publishes Child Nutrition Program Integrity Final Rule USDA Wednesday published a final rule on program integrity to ensure that child nutrition programs are properly operated and managed to protect federal funds and taxpayer dollars. The final rule impacts the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Special Milk Program, Summer Food Service Program, and Child and Adult Care Food Program. The final rule introduces targeted flexibilities in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs that streamline monitoring requirements and lower administrative burdens for states. The rule also finalizes provisions in the Child and Adult Care Food Program, that have already been in place. The provisions streamline processes, provide additional resources, and increase accountability. The rule also allows for more efficient use of state agency resources by ensuring that organizations at risk of serious management issues receive more frequent oversight, and that financial transactions are appropriately reviewed. USDA improved the ability to address the rare instances of severe or repeated violations of program requirements in the child nutrition programs.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 24, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. durable goods orders and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. Thursday. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. and traders remain attentive to the latest weather forecasts. Weather An upper-level dome of high pressure continues to cause extreme heat across the middle of the country for Thursday. The edges of the heat dome are becoming more active, however. We are seeing a slight shift southward of the front across its northern edge, though it will be a system moving through the Canadian Prairies that pushes it southward tonight and tomorrow. On the northeastern edge, heavy rainfall has developed over Ohio this morning. While that may peter out this morning, it will be an area for redevelopment later today

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 23, 2023 |

USDA Announces Forest Management Funding Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Tuesday announced $150 million to help underserved and small acreage forest landowners connect to emerging voluntary climate markets. The markets can provide economic opportunities for landowners and incentivize improved forest health and management. The Forest Service Funding comes from the Inflation Reduction Act. Vilsack announced the funding opportunity at the Sustainable Forestry and African American Land Retention Conference. Forests are powerful tools in the fight against climate change, according to USDA, and emerging voluntary private-sector markets are now creating economic incentives to keep forests healthy and productive. However, high acreage requirements and prohibitive start-up costs have caused many small-acreage and underserved private forest owners to be left behind. Without financial incentives, these landowners may not have the resources to manage forests for long-term health and resilience. Without proper management, forests are more susceptible to wildfire, loss of habitat, and reduced water quality. The Forest Service anticipates future funding opportunities, including one specifically targeted to engage tribal nations. *********************************************************************************** Farmers for Free Trade Calls on Presidential Candidates to Prioritize Trade Farmers for Free Trade this week implored all 2024 presidential candidates to prioritize new market access trade agreements to strengthen U.S. agriculture and decrease reliance on China. The organization also called on the presidential candidates to hold China accountable in a responsible manner that does not endanger U.S. food and agriculture's largest export market or threaten American farmers with new retaliatory tariffs. In a letter, the organization says, "The U.S. needs to again take the lead in negotiating new FTAs with other countries and work to strengthen and reform the rules-based multilateral trading system." Such agreements could protect American workers and the environment, help contain China's growing geopolitical influence, and open new export markets for our farmers by meaningfully reducing and eliminating tariffs and non-tariff trade barriers. The letter, which comes shortly before the first presidential debate of the 2024 election cycle, was sent to all presidential campaigns. *********************************************************************************** Youth Employment Trends in the Midwest New research shows labor shortages present persistent challenges for regional economies but can also create opportunities for young workers. The research, published Tuesday on the University of Illinois farmdocDAILY website, shows youth employment can also help employers fill the part-time, low-wage, and often seasonal positions. Generation Z is relatively smaller than the millennial generation. As a result, fewer young people are working because there are simply fewer young people. However, every Midwestern state had a higher labor force participation rate among workers aged 16 to 19 than the nation. The highest levels of youth employment occur in relatively small, rural counties. Additionally, the food service and accommodation industry and the retail sector employ the most young workers. The research concludes that connecting young people to beneficial, rather than exploitative, work opportunities is a critical step in building and sustaining the local labor force, but it also directs them toward opportunities that might lead to a career. *********************************************************************************** New Grants to Support Wild Horse Initiatives New grants from the Bureau of Land Management focus on managing and protecting wild horses and burros on public lands. The federal government awarded grants to six organizations and universities in Colorado, Oregon and Utah. The BLM manages and protects free-roaming wild horses and burros on public lands as required by the 1971 Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. Most herds on public lands are in arid environments and lack natural predators that can control herd growth. The grants are part of efforts to work with community partners on projects that will benefit wild horses and burros and their habitat, including increasing the use of fertility control to slow herd growth. The latest population estimates found more than 82,000 wild horses and burros on BLM-managed public lands. Though down from a record high in 2020, this population is more than three times the level that is healthy for the herds and their habitat. *********************************************************************************** Cotton Board Elects New Officers The Cotton Board recently elected a new slate of officers to serve one-year terms. During its Business Session, The Cotton Board elected Mark Nichols, a cotton producer from Altus, Oklahoma, to serve as Chairman of the Board. Nichols is the President of Jess Mark Nichols Farms, Inc. and President of Hess Farms, Inc., a fourth-generation farm he has managed since 1980. He farms with his brother-in-law, son, and son-in-law, growing irrigated cotton, wheat, and milo. Nichols commented on his new role, " During the upcoming year, we will continue to work closely with Cotton Incorporated to ensure our industry is moving forward and leading the way to increase the demand for and profitability of cotton." Other elected officers are Akiko Inui (ah-kee-koh in-you) of New York as Vice Chairman, Matt Famer of Texas as Secretary, and Rusty Darby of South Carolina as Treasurer. The Cotton Board is funded by the cotton checkoff, with efforts managed by Cotton Incorporated. *********************************************************************************** California Continues to Lead U.S. Peach Harvest While Georgia is on many consumers' minds when it comes to fresh, juicy peaches, California is by far the largest peach-producing state in the United States. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that last year, California's harvest yielded 475,000 tons of fruit, with South Carolina a distant second at 67,400 tons, and Georgia in third place with production at 24,800 tons. California has been the leading producer of freestone peaches for the fresh market and clingstone peaches for processing. However, the state's peach production has been trending lower for almost two decades, contributing to an overall drop in U.S. peach production. Total production in the United States in 2022 was estimated at 625,680 tons, eight percent smaller than the crop in 2019. In 2022, California’s peach harvest was about five percent smaller than in 2019 and nearly 27 percent lower than ten years earlier. USDA forecasts 2023 peach production 13 percent lower than last year.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 23, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales in July is set for 9:00 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. USDA's monthly cold storage report is due out at 2 p.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch over the latest weather forecasts and news regarding Ukraine. Weather A dome of heat continues to bake the middle of the country with records likely to be broken again today. The remnants of Tropical Storm Harold will continue through the Rio Grande Valley and into the Four Corners area today and across the north, a front may be active with showers, especially for the eastern Great Lakes. Otherwise, the heat comes with complete dryness as soil moisture continues to rapidly evaporate.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 22, 2023 |

USDA Announces Nearly $700 Million in Rural Broadband Funding Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Monday announced nearly $700 million in grants and loans as part of USDA’s ReConect Program. The funding will connect thousands of rural residents, farmers and business owners in 22 states to reliable, affordable high-speed internet. Vilsack says, “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 along the way.” The high-speed internet investments are part of the fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. Many residents and businesses in rural areas would not have high-speed internet service without the ReConnect Program, as the program is a key part of the Administration’s Internet for All initiative to connect everyone in America to high-speed internet by 2030. Funding for this round of grants comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and includes $667 million of funded projects. A full list of funded projects is available on USDA's Rural Development website. *********************************************************************************** Farmland Partners: Strong Market Still Adding Value Farmland values across the country climbed this year and hit record levels despite challenges like rising interest rates and extreme weather, according to data from the federal government. The Department of Agriculture found that U.S. farm real estate values, which includes all land and buildings on farms, increased 7.4 percent over the past year. Cropland values have grown 8.1 percent since 2022. Nationwide value of farm real estate and cropland also increased sharply from 2021 to 2022, 12.4 percent and 14.3 percent, respectively. Additional reports from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, confirm the USDA data. Farmland Partners Inc. President and CEO Luca Fabbri says, "These studies and similar reports coming from farm country show that the farmland market is still strong and adding value." Farmland Partners is an internally managed real estate that owns and/or manages nearly 186,000 acres in 20 states. *********************************************************************************** USTR Tai Visiting Indonesia, India U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai met with Indonesia's Minister of Trade Monday. Tai and Zulkifli Hasan discussed progress through the U.S.-ASEAN Trade and Investment Framework Arrangement Work Plan, including issues related to trade facilitation, standards and the digital economy. Ambassador Tai and Minister Hasan also discussed progress and updates on the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. The ministers also discussed the U.S.-Indonesia Trade and Investment Framework Agreement. Ambassador Tai noted that the United States views this TIFA as an important mechanism for discussing bilateral trade issues. Later this week, Tai will travel to India for the G20 Trade & Investment Ministers' Meeting. Tai will also meet with business leaders and hold bilateral meetings with government officials. The meetings follow last week’s effort with Taiwan, as USR and Taiwan held an in-person negotiating round for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade in Washington, D.C. *********************************************************************************** Healthy Watersheds, Healthy Communities Act Introduced Lawmakers Monday introduced the Healthy Watersheds, Healthy Communities Act. Led by Colorado Democrat Micheal Benet, a bipartisan group of Senators introduced the bill that would improve the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations program. The bipartisan legislation would streamline the planning and administration processes to enable more watershed-wide projects, shift decision-making to local NRCS staff, expand program eligibility, and allow federal funding to count toward state and local match requirements. The bill also prioritizes projects with multiple conservation and public benefits and makes drought resilience an explicit purpose of the program. With more frequent and severe drought and flooding, farmers and ranchers are using the program to mitigate the effects of these natural disasters through watershed improvement projects. However, the lawmakers say as demand for this program grows, inadequate funding and burdensome red tape keeps applicants from accessing its full benefits. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposal to Strengthen Horse Protection Act USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service seeks public input on a proposed rule to strengthen Horse Protection Act requirements. Announced last week, the proposed changes aim to eliminate horse soring, a cruel and inhumane practice that gives horse owners and trainers an unfair advantage in walking horse competitions. Walking horses are known for possessing a naturally high gait, but to be more successful in competitions, some owners and trainers use improper training methods to exaggerate a horse's gait. The methods may cause the horse to suffer from physical pain, distress, inflammation, or lameness while walking and moving. USDA's Jenny Lester-Moffitt says, "By strengthening the HPA regulations, we can all work to eliminate soring, which will improve the welfare of horses competing in these shows and level the competitive playing field.” You can submit comments by searching for the proposal at regulations.gov. APHIS will consider all comments received on or before October 20, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Registration Open for CattleCon24 Registration and housing are now open for CattleCon24, the cattle industry's largest event of the year. It's "Onward to Orlando," where cattle producers from across the country will gather, January 31-February 2, for business meetings, educational sessions, engaging speakers and family fun. Kristin Torres of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association says, "By opening registration early this year, we hope to give producers the ability to plan a family vacation in conjunction with CattleCon." Attendees can look forward to a variety of educational opportunities, including the CattleFax Outlook Seminar, weather and industry updates, grazing management workshop, sessions featuring guest speakers on the NCBA Trade Show floor and the 31st annual Cattlemen's College. Cattlemen's College is being reimagined in 2024 with classroom sessions and hands-on demonstrations throughout all three days of CattleCon. Also new are trade show cooking demos and a beef culinary tour. A variety of ticket packages are available, as well as payment plan options. Visit convention.ncba.org to learn more.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 22, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. existing home sales for July is set for 9:90 a.m. CDT Tuesday, the only significant report of the day. Traders will continue to watch over the latest weather developments and keep track of news regarding Ukraine. Weather The most intense section of the heat wave starts on Tuesday with widespread 90s and triple-digit temperatures across the middle of the country, which will be in place through Thursday. The outer edges of the heat will continue to be active with showers in the west and far north and across Texas with Tropical Storm Harold moving through.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 21, 2023 |

Farmland Values Resilient as Economy Moderates Strength in farm real estate values persisted in the second quarter despite some moderation in the farm economy and higher interest rates. The Kansas City Federal Reserve says growth in farmland values eased from the surge in recent years but remained strong through the first half of 2023. Broad strength in farm finances during recent years throughout the district continued supporting agricultural credit conditions. Margins for many commodities have thinned in recent months alongside elevated production costs and softening prices. Farm loan performance remained historically strong through early 2023, and liquidity levels at many agricultural banks were well-positioned to meet growth in lending demand that could be on the horizon. Farm incomes moderated in all the participating Districts during the second quarter. Following almost two years of considerable strength, improvement in farm income waned according to Federal Reserve Surveys of Ag Credit Conditions. Loan demand remained subdued despite moderating incomes. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Support USTR in Mexican Trade Dispute The U.S. Trade Representative requested a panel formation under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement over Mexico’s decision to ban imports of biotech corn used in human consumption. “Mexico’s decree runs counter to scientific findings and is in direct violation of USMCA, which negatively impacts American corn growers,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). U.S. Grains Council President and CEO Ryan LeGrand says the U.S. and Mexico have had a long and productive relationship. “It’s our number one market for U.S. corn, and we support this action because it will likely be the quickest way to make sure the positive relationship continues in the future.” Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says his group appreciates U.S. Trade Rep Katherine Tai for her continued commitment to holding Mexico to its agreements under USMCA. “America’s farmers are upholding their obligations by meeting demand while achieving important sustainability goals,” says Duvall. “Mexico must do the same thing.” *********************************************************************************** Most Cow-Calf Operations Remain Small Most cow-calf operations in the U.S. remain relatively small and have fewer than 50 cows. USDA says at the other end of the spectrum, a few very large operations with more than 1,000 cows can be found. USDA data from the National Agricultural Statistics Service Ag Census indicates that between 1997 and 2017, most cow-calf operations remained small. In 2017, 54 percent of farms with beef cows had fewer than 20 animals, down slightly from 1997. However, during the two decades, the overall number of cow-calf operations in the U.S. dropped by 19 percent, while the average herd size on the remaining operations grew. These changes in farm numbers and herd sizes, while notable, haven’t been as significant as industry shifts in hog and dairy production. The combination of relatively lower cow-calf-specific startup costs and pasture as a primary source of feed has resulted in a variety of operation sizes. *********************************************************************************** India’s Rice Export Ban Has Benefits and Challenges for U.S. Growers America’s rice producers and exporters will benefit from India’s recent decision to ban exports of white rice as global demand for U.S. rice will likely rise. The higher world demand will temporarily lift prices for U.S. rice growers, and the industry is well-positioned to meet higher demand for exports. However, CoBank says the short-term benefits of India’s rice export ban will give way to the longer-term consequence of an oversupplied global market and severe price correction when the ban is eventually reversed. New research from CoBank’s Global Knowledge Exchange says higher global rice prices resulting from the export ban will push other countries to expand rice production, increasing global supplies. When India does lift its export ban, the country’s surplus of rice will get dumped on the world export market. That means world rice prices will overcorrect from the sudden boost in supplies. India’s government imposed the ban on July 20. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Drought Monitor Shows a Mix of Dry Weather and Recent Rainfall The latest Weekly Drought Monitor showed similar conditions to last week. Above-normal temperatures and mostly-dry weather continued through parts of Texas and into the lower Mississippi Valley, where ongoing drought conditions continued deteriorating. Drought intensified in eastern Texas, Louisiana, and south-central Mississippi. Increasing short-term drought continued across Arizona, New Mexico, and southwest Colorado. Frequent rounds of heavy rainfall occurred from the Northeast into the Central Mississippi Valley and into southern Missouri and the Upper Midwest. The continued wet conditions are improving drought across parts of the Corn Belt and much of the southern and central Midwest. Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois saw continuing improvement, with D1 removal from Ohio and Indiana. Farther north, drought continued to intensify across northern Wisconsin, North Dakota, Montana, and Washington. Eastern parts of the High Plains saw continued precipitation and below-normal temperatures. Kansas saw heavy precipitation continue from last week, further improving the east and central regions. *********************************************************************************** Corn Export Sales Move Higher Corn sales to overseas buyers for this current marketing year improved in the seven days ending on August 10. USDA data shows that soybean export sales declined during the same period last year. Exporters sold 233,500 metric tons of corn for delivery for 2022-2023, up 55 percent from the previous week and 16 percent above the prior four-week average. In its weekly Export Sales report, the agency says the top three buyers were all unknown destinations. Sales for delivery in the 2023-2024 marketing year that starts September 1 totaled 704,700 metric tons. Soybean sales were 77 percent lower week-over-week and down 42 percent from the four-week average to 93,600 metric tons for 2022-2023. Sales for delivery in 2023-2024 totaled over 1,400,000 metric tons. Wheat sales for the current marketing year dropped 37 percent from the previous week but were up three percent from the four-week average to 359,500 metric tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 21, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Crop Rebound, Pipelines all on Tap This Week OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Aug. 20. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Rebound crop: There seems little letup on the ongoing discussion on how well the 2023 corn and soybean crops have rebounded following recent rains. We'll continue to have reports from the field as we track grain fill and pod set, leading up the USDA's next World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report Sept. 12. If you participated in our DTN Summit Series event Aug. 15, you know Gro Intelligence added a bit to the 177-bushel-per-acre average estimate on corn revealed during our Digital Yield Tour the week prior. Will those yields hold through August? Stay tuned. 2. Weather: The wall of hot weather taking hold across the country will be the most-watched weather factor, but we're also tracking Hurricane Hilary as it moves onto the West Coast and potentially up into the Pacific Northwest and Idaho, and on into the Canadian Prairies. An early view on the hurricane can be found in our Ag Weather Forum blog; watch for updates in that space as well. . 3. Pipeline dreams: Tuesday marks the beginning of hearings on the Summit Carbon Solutions pipeline, which is proposed to cross Iowa and into North Dakota. Summit wants to pipe carbon dioxide to be injected into the Bakken geology formation. The Iowa Utilities Board will hold a hearing in Fort Dodge to discuss the pipeline's permit, including Summit's request for eminent domain rights on parcels of land that have not signed easements. 4. Broadband update: USDA scheduled an update on its investments in rural broadband, something we watch closely here at DTN. We should have results of the latest report early in the week. 5. Weekly reports of note: Monday we'll have USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, USA Crop Progress report comes in at 3 p.m. Tuesday morning we'll see U.S. existing home sales for July, with new home sales numbers out Wednesday. Wednesday also sees U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Then, Thursday features USDA weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, U.S. durable goods orders and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. On Friday is the University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 21, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking the latest weather forecasts and any news regarding shipments of grain from Ukraine. USDA will have its usual weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A dome of heat has parked itself across the middle of the country and will be turning it up on Monday with significantly high readings and near-records in some areas between the Rockies and Appalachians. Western states continue to deal with heavy rainfall from the remnants of Hurricane Hilary as it moves north through the region.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 18, 2023 |

U.S. Establishes Dispute Panel on Mexico’s Biotech Measures U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced the United States is establishing a dispute settlement panel under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The U.S. is challenging Mexico’s measures on biotech corn. Mexico set rules in place during a decree in February that banned the use of biotech corn in tortillas or dough. The Mexican government also instructed its agencies to gradually substitute – i.e., ban – the use of biotech corn in all products for human consumption and for animal feed. Mexico’s measures aren’t based on science and undermine the market access it agreed to provide in the USMCA. “The United States has used the tools provided by the USMCA in attempting to resolve concerns with Mexico’s biotechnology measures,” says Tai. “We’re taking the next step in enforcing Mexico’s obligations under the agreement.” She also says Mexico’s approach to biotechnology isn’t based on science and runs counter to decades worth of evidence clearly demonstrating its safety. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Exports to Hit 52-Year Low The U.S. Department of Agriculture says America’s all-wheat exports are projected to be 700 million bushels, the lowest level since the 1971-1972 marketing year. That’s a 25-million-bushel reduction from the prior month’s forecast. Despite an increase in Hard Red Winter Wheat production, exports are cut 25 million bushels to 165 million, the lowest level since by-class supply and utilization records began in 1972-1974. U.S. exports of HRW remain uncompetitive on the global market as shown by shipment and sales data. HRW exports in June were 10 million bushels, down from 19.2 million bushels in June 2022. Using data for the Foreign Agricultural Service’s Export Sales Reporting, all-wheat U.S. total commitments are about 6.4 million metric tons as of August 3, down 26 percent from the same point last year. It’s also 37 percent below the recent ten-year average at this point. HRW total commitments are 53 percent lower compared to last year. *********************************************************************************** Johnson Introduces Bill to Reinstate MCOOL U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-SD) introduced the Beef Origin Labeling Accountability Act to bring clarity and to reinstate mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) for beef products. “Consumers don’t know where their beef comes from,” Johnson says. “It could be South Dakota, Brazil, or Canada. U.S. producers raise better beef, and they’re not getting credit for it.” The act will direct the U.S. Trade Representative and Ag Secretary to work together to determine a process of reinstating Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for beef that is compliant with World Trade Organization rules. It also directs the U.S. Trade Rep to consult with the Canadian and Mexican governments to resolve the outstanding MCOOL trade disputes the two countries have open against the U.S. “This bill is a step in the right direction to get accurate labels back on these products to increase consumer confidence in American-made and grown products,” Johnson adds. *********************************************************************************** Investments to Growing Animal Feed Indoors Forever Feed Technologies announced a multimillion-dollar investment from a renowned group of dairy and agricultural leaders to develop sustainable automated indoor-growing feed mills. The climate-controlled technology will greatly reduce water, land usage, and methane emissions in helping the industry reach its goal of being “climate neutral by 2050. The new investment funds will go to building the largest and most reliably controlled environmental mills, capable of feeding thousands of animals with fresh high-quality feed year-round. In turn, that helps producers to responsibly expand their operations to meet growing demands. Steve Lindsley, Forever Feed Technologies CEO, says, “We’re pleased to have assembled some of the most respected dairy and agricultural leaders in the country to participate in our funding round. Forever Feed is committed to building world class water-saving technology that will allow our customers to sustainably grow cattle feed 365 days a year anywhere in the world.” Information is available at foreverfeed.tech. *********************************************************************************** Wheat Organizations Support Recent Food for Peace Donation Organizations representing Pacific Northwest wheat growers and the U.S. milling industry are celebrating the latest Food for Peace donation of 28,000 metric tons of soft white wheat. U.S. wheat farmers, U.S. Wheat Associates, the National Association of Wheat Growers, and the North American Millers’ Association have partnered with the U.S. international food assistance program for 70 years. Since 2020, America has donated more than one million metric tons of wheat and millions of dollars in food aid every year. The soft white wheat donation was grown in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Wheat growers and the milling industry applauded the introduction of the American Farmers Feed the World Act last June. It would “put the food back into food aid” by restoring Food for Peace to its roots as a purely in-kind commodity donation program and require at least half of all Food for Peace funds be used to buy American commodities. *********************************************************************************** CattleCon24 Registration Opens Early Registration and housing are now open for CattleCon24, the cattle industry’s largest event of the year. “It’s “Onward to Orlando,” where cattle producers from across the country will gather January 31-February 2, for business meetings, educational sessions, engaging speakers, and family fun. “By opening registration early this year, we hope to give producers the ability to plan a family vacation in conjunction with CattleCon,” says Kristin Torres, executive director of meetings and events with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “Orlando and the surrounding areas offer a variety of family-friendly activities, and we want attendees to take advantage of a great location.” Attendees can look forward to a variety of educational opportunities including the CattleFax Outlook Seminar, weather and industry updates, grazing management workshops, guest speakers on the trade show floor, and the 31st annual Cattlemen’s College. Leaders in sustainability, quality, and cattle feeding will get recognized during a stewardship program reception.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 18, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's monthly cattle-on feed report for August 1 at 2 p.m. CDT is the only significant report of the day. Traders will keep up with the latest weather forecasts and news regarding Ukraine's efforts to ship grain, while under attack. Weather A hot ridge is moving into the Plains and bringing the heat on Friday. Cooler temperatures in the Midwest will only be temporary as the heat spreads over the weekend. Western areas are on the watch for Hurricane Hilary, which is expected to induce flooding rains for California and the Desert Southwest over the weekend into early next week.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 17, 2023 |

Fertilizer Prices Continue Decline Fertilizer prices have continued their more than year-long decline through the first two weeks of August 2023. The University of Illinois’ FarmdocDAILY website shows that on a per pound of nitrogen basis, urea and liquid nitrogen fertilizers have historically been priced at a premium of 35 to 40 percent above anhydrous ammonia. However, the premium narrowed in 2022 as the Russia-Ukraine conflict disrupted global fertilizer markets. The premium on liquid, relative to anhydrous, has returned to more historical levels while the gap has continued to narrow between urea and anhydrous prices. This is attributed to continued expansion in global production capacity combined with lower demand prospects. The continued decline in fertilizer prices improves return and income prospects as we look ahead to soon-to-be-released crop budgets for 2024. If the low premium on urea relative to anhydrous extends into the coming months, it may make urea a more attractive nitrogen option for farmers in 2024. *********************************************************************************** US Welcomes WTO Report on China Trade Retaliations The U.S. Trade Representative's Office welcomed a report from the World Trade Organization calling U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs justified for security reasons. The WTO report recognized that U.S. Section 232 actions on steel and aluminum are security measures, and that China illegally retaliated with sham "safeguard" tariffs. The panel rejected China's argument that the U.S. Section 232 actions are safeguard measures that may be "rebalanced" under WTO rules. However, officials from China called on the U.S. to lift the tariffs imposed on Chinese products following the report. China's commerce ministry claims the root cause lies in "the unilateralist and protectionist" nature of the United States. China maintains that its actions "are a legitimate move to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests." Tariffs imposed on American agricultural exports in retaliation for Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum imports led to an overall $27 billion reduction in U.S. ag exports from mid-2018 to the end of 2019. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases August Oil Crops Outlook USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service published its first survey-based forecast of the 2023/24 U.S. soybean yield this month. At 50.9 bushels per acre, the current soybean yield forecast is down 1.1 bushels per acre from last month. The soybean crush forecast is unchanged at 2.3 billion bushels, supported by the greater demand for soybean oil and domestic soybean crush capacity expansion. A waning supply of canola oil and drought conditions in Canada and the United States have elevated prices for both old and new crop soybean oil. The average soybean oil price is forecast at 62.0 cents per pound, up 2.0 cents from last month but down from a revised 2022/23 price of 65.0 cents per pound. Soybean oil used for biofuels production supports strong domestic demand. In contrast, domestic soybean meal demand is lower than expected as livestock growth is slower than anticipated. USDA lowered the forecast for domestic soybean meal demand by .25 million short tons to 39.73 million short tons. *********************************************************************************** New Falling Number Test Prevents Wheat Contamination As wheat harvesting season comes to an end, farmers brace for a potential threat to their crop that costs tens of millions of dollars each year. High levels of alpha-amylase (am-uh-laze) protein in wheat can lead to a low falling number score, a factor that determines the quality and price of wheat. If growers cannot detect wheat with a low falling number, the wheat may mix with sound wheat on farms, in grain elevators or during transport, compromising the entire bushel. The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research is awarding a $835,800 Seeding Solutions grant to Washington State University to develop a faster, cheaper and more accurate test, to prevent mixing of low and high falling number wheat. The current falling number test, developed almost 70 years ago, is slow, expensive, exhibits high variability and does not assess alpha-amylase levels directly. In addition to developing new rapid tests, the grant also includes developing an early warning system to alert grain handlers to weather patterns likely to cause spikes in alpha-amylase. *********************************************************************************** Adult Obesity Rates Increased During First Year of COVID-19 Pandemic New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows that adult obesity increased during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Broad efforts to contain COVID-19 included travel, work, and social restrictions. Such behavioral adjustments disrupted the dietary and activity patterns of U.S. adults. The percentage of adults with obesity was 40.7 percent in early 2020. One year later, the rate grew by 1.8 percentage points to 42.5 percent. There was not an immediate, substantial increase when the pandemic began. Rather, the obesity rate was statistically indistinguishable from the pre-pandemic prevalence during the first three months of the pandemic, March–May 2020, at 40.8 percent. The next three time periods saw statistically significant increases relative to the baseline pre-pandemic period. The total obesity rate increase from March 2020 to March 2021 was more than triple the average yearly growth rate of 0.5 percentage points in the preceding decade, 2011–2019. *********************************************************************************** Ag Lenders Donate to Hawaii Relief Efforts Farm Credit Association American AgCredit, rural banking partner CoBank, and The Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation, also known as Farmer Mac, are donating $40,000 to Maui Food Bank to help aid during the devastating wildfires that are wreaking havoc in Hawaii. AgCredit CEO Curt Hudnutt says, “When natural disasters impact the communities in which we live and work, we stand ready to support.” CoBank’s Brenda Frank adds, “The contribution to the Maui Food Bank is intended to address the immediate needs and reduce suffering of those impacted by the wildfires in Maui.” Farm Credit has had a presence in Hawaii for over 50 years. The association has been a strong provider of financial support to Hawaiian farmers and ranchers. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden says he intends to ensure people in the state have "everything they need" to recover. Biden plans to visit the area Monday. More than 100 deaths were reported, with 1,300 people still missing following the wildfires.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 17, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday. U.S. leading indicators for July are at 9 a.m. and the U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook follows at 2 p.m. Weather A front is pushing a line of showers and thunderstorms through the Great Lakes on Thursday, some of which could be stronger. Temperatures behind the front are going to be briefly cool while heat in the West starts to bulge out into more of the Plains. Drier conditions are expected for most other areas except in the West, which is seeing monsoon showers increasing ahead of the potential flooding from Tropical Storm Hilary that will move in this weekend and early next week.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 16, 2023 |

Thompson: Farm Bill Extension Likely House Agriculture Chairman Glenn GT Thompson says, "We're probably going to need an extension," referring to the timing of the 2023 Farm Bill. At a listening session in Missouri this week, the Pennsylvania Republican acknowledged that "the clock is ticking," with the current farm bill set to expire at the end of the fiscal year, September 30. The event is one of many held by the committee that Thompson calls a "perpetual barnstorming tour" across rural America. The House Agriculture Committee is expected to release a draft version of the 2023 Farm Bill, possibly by the end of the month, according to Thompson. The chairman says, "There's a lot of competition" for time on the House floor next month, with appropriations bills still needing attention, as well. However, any continuing resolution would likely have a farm-bill extension included. Thompson adds, "I hope it's a very short extension," if one is needed. *********************************************************************************** Plant-Based Meat Alternatives Sales Declining U.S. consumers remain interested in plant-based meat alternatives, but higher prices have led many prospective return consumers to taper off their purchases. Plant-based meats are often several dollars a pound higher than equivalent meat and poultry products. Beyond cost, lingering negative perceptions surrounding taste, value and versatility are also obstacles the category has yet to overcome. According to a new report from CoBank, the market for plant-based meats has likely reached a tipping point as the initial period of exceptional sales growth appears to be over. Plant-based meat sales peaked in 2020 when consumers had more discretionary income and were curious about broadening their food spend in the wake of pandemic-era food shortages. But fewer than half of Americans who tried the products at the time repeated their purchase. Sales of meat alternatives have fallen steadily since 2021 and more sharply over the last year. Volume sales dropped 20.9 percent for the 52-week period ending July 2, 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Offers Disaster Program Flexibilities for Flood-Impacted Producers USDA’s Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency authorized flexibilities for disaster assistance programs and crop insurance to aid Northeast farmers impacted by flooding this year. USDA Undersecretary Robert Bonnie says, “The production and physical losses to flooding have devastated farmers and ranchers in the Northeast.” Bonnie visited the region this week, announcing that “USDA is committed to assisting these producers in their ongoing recovery efforts.” FSA has authorized policy exceptions in all flood-impacted counties in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Vermont. The flexibilities apply to Farm Storage Facility Loans, the Livestock Indemnity Program, the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program, and other programs and efforts. Additionally, Producers experiencing financial hardships and finding themselves behind on their FSA Marketing Assistance Loan repayment should contact their USDA Service Center to discuss repayment concerns with FSA staff. *********************************************************************************** Variable Rate Technology Adoption Increasing New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows variable rate technology adoption is on the rise. Farmers use variable rate technologies to control the amount of farm inputs—such as seed, fertilizer, and chemicals—applied as farm machinery moves across a field. Data from USDA’s Agricultural Resource Management Survey show that initial adoption in the late 1990s and early 2000s was sluggish, remaining below ten percent of planted acres for several field crops. However, adoption rates for corn and cotton have increased markedly over the last decade. The adoption rate for corn stood at 37.4 percent of planted acres in 2016, up from 11.5 percent in 2005. Cotton acreage showed a similar increase, rising from 5.4 percent in 2007 to 22.7 percent in 2019. Recent adoption rates across other crops included 13.9 percent for sorghum in 2019, 18.8 percent of winter wheat planted acres in 2017, and 25.3 percent of soybean-planted acres in 2018. *********************************************************************************** USDA to Open Urban Service Center in Philadelphia The Department of Agriculture is opening a new Urban Service Center in Philadelphia as part of a broader effort to support urban agriculture in Pennsylvania. NRCS Pennsylvania State Conservationist Denise Coleman says, “Every producer deserves USDA support in their own community, whether that community is urban or rural. The Urban Service Center in Philadelphia is one of 17 across the country. The Urban Service Centers are staffed by Natural Resources Conservation Service and Farm Service Agency employees. The facilities offer farm loan, conservation, disaster assistance and risk management programs. USDA works with agricultural producers through a network of more than 2,300 Service Centers nationwide, and the new Urban Service Centers will strengthen services to urban producers, according to the department. The Philadelphia Urban USDA Service Center will open the week of August 21, 2023. To learn more about Urban Service Centers, or to find a location near you, visit farmers.gov/urban. *********************************************************************************** Tractor Supply Company to Host National Farmers Market Tractor Supply Company, the largest rural lifestyle retailer in the United States, will host a nationwide Farmers Market on Saturday, August 19 in all of the retailer's 2,100+ communities. The event will showcase the talent and products of local farmers, growers, craft makers, artisans and other producers. Customers and community members are invited to stop by, explore the wide range of offerings and support their neighbors by purchasing homemade and homegrown goods and products. The free event takes place outside Tractor Supply stores nationwide, with local vendors selling products like fresh fruit and vegetables, arts and crafts, accessories, specialty food and drink and more. Although registration for local sellers is closed, customers can contact their local store for additional information regarding partners and activities. As of July 1, 2023, the Company operated 2,181 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states, including 81 stores acquired from Orscheln Farm and Home in 2022 that will be rebranded to Tractor Supply by the end of 2023.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 16, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts in July is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by U.S. industrial production in July at 8:15 a.m. The Energy Department's weekly energy inventories will follow at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to check the latest weather forecasts and follow the news from Ukraine. Weather An overall quiet day is in store for most of the country. But a system going through Canada will send a cold front through the Upper Midwest on Wednesday. The front could produce some showers and thunderstorms and also bring some breezy winds as it works through.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 15, 2023 |

APHIS Proposal to Strengthen Quarantine and Inspection Program USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is seeking comments on a proposed rule to amend regulations governing its Agricultural Quarantine and Inspection program user fees. APHIS and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Customs and Border Protection jointly administer the program, ensuring that cargo and passenger baggage entering the country is inspected for plant pests and potential sources of animal diseases that could affect U.S. agriculture, trade and commerce. Foreign pests and diseases can devastate U.S. agriculture and the broader U.S. economy, and the AQI program is highly successful at preventing such disruptions. Fees for the AQI program were last updated in 2015. The outdated fee structure and recent changes in international travel and shipping mean that current fees do not generate enough revenue to cover the costs of the AQI services provided. APHIS will consider all comments received on or before October 10, 2023.  Go to www.regulations.gov to search for the proposal and comment. *********************************************************************************** USDA Providing Additional Assistance to Loan Borrowers Facing Financial Risk The Department of Agriculture is providing additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying guaranteed Farm Loan Programs borrowers who are facing financial risk. The announcement is part of the $3.1 billion to help certain distressed farm loan borrowers provided through the Inflation Reduction Act. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "The financial assistance included in today's announcement will provide a fresh start for distressed borrowers with guaranteed farm loans and will give them the opportunity to generate long-term stability and success." Since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed in August 2022, USDA has provided approximately $1.15 billion in assistance to more than 20,000 distressed borrowers as a part of an ongoing effort to keep borrowers farming. The additional financial assistance will provide qualifying distressed guaranteed loan borrowers with financial assistance similar to what was already provided to distressed direct loan borrowers. Based on current analysis, the financial assistance will assist an estimated approximately 3,500 eligible borrowers, subject to change as payments are finalized. *********************************************************************************** Income Spent on Food Increased 13% in 2022 U.S. consumers spent an average of 11.3 percent of their disposable personal income on food in 2022, a level not observed since the 1980s, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Disposable personal income is the amount of money consumers have left to spend or save after paying taxes. Consumers spent 5.62 percent of their incomes on food at supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouse club stores, supercenters, and other retailers in 2022 and 5.64 percent on food at restaurants, fast-food establishments, schools, and other places offering food away from home. In 2022, the share spent on total food had the sharpest annual increase, 12.7 percent. This followed an 8.2-percent decline, the sharpest annual drop in total food spending since 1967, during the first year of the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020. The recent volatility in spending was driven by consumers’ sudden drop in eating out at the beginning of the pandemic followed by a return to food-away-from-home purchases as pandemic-related restrictions and concerns eased. *********************************************************************************** Training Available to Help Producers Manage Phosphorus Losses A series of online training modules is now freely available to farmers, interested in designing on-farm systems to remove phosphorus from field runoff or subsurface drainage. Available on the Internet, the modules comprise seven narrated videos, starting with a basic overview of the need for phosphorus removal systems, followed by how to design, build and install them, as well as how to properly dispose of or recycle the absorbent materials used to help capture the nutrient in drainage water and runoff. Phosphorus is a critical nutrient for optimal plant growth, health and yield. However, phosphorus that leaves agricultural fields in runoff or drainage water can accumulate in bodies of surface water, like rivers and lakes. Management practices and engineered systems that prevent phosphorus loss are vital to maintaining environmental quality. The modules can help users navigate their way through the process, as well as provide “lessons learned” from the field. *********************************************************************************** Graduate Students Encouraged to Apply for Beef Industry Scholarships The National Cattlemen’s Foundation is accepting applications for the annual W.D. Farr Scholarship program. Established in 2007, the scholarship recognizes outstanding graduate students pursuing meat science and animal agriculture careers. 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. 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, goals and experience, a short essay, statement of belief in the industry, as well as a review of the applicant's graduate research and three letters of recommendation by September 22, 2023. The 2023 scholarship recipients will be recognized at CattleCon 2024. The scholarship honors the successful career of the late W.D. Farr, a third-generation Coloradan, pioneer rancher, statesman and banker known for his extraordinary vision. For more information and to apply for the scholarship, visit www.nationalcattlemensfoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Gas and Diesel Prices Rise Again For the fifth straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline increased, rising 2.5 cents from a week ago to $3.82 per gallon. The national average is up 29.1 cents from a month ago but 9.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price rose 12.3 cents last week and stands at $4.270 per gallon, 77.3 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says prices "could climb slightly higher as we get closer to Labor Day, as oil prices remain under pressure from recent OPEC+ production cuts." Gasoline prices stand just over a dime away from rising back above their year-ago level—something that is possible by the closing summer holiday. In addition, the largest refinery in the Midwest moved up its seasonal maintenance to several weeks earlier than expected, causing a somewhat unexpected jump at the pump in the Great Lakes.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 15, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales for July will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by the start of DTN's Ag Summit Series at 8:30 a.m. Soybean crush estimates from members of the National Soybean Processors Association will follow later Tuesday morning. Traders will keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts and news from Ukraine. Weather A low-pressure center continues to spin around Michigan and will produce areas of showers there and over the far eastern Midwest on Tuesday, but the focus for showers will be along the East Coast. Quieter and relatively cooler air is flowing through more of the country behind it, though hotter temperatures in the Pacific Northwest are leaking out into the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 14, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be paying close attention to the latest weather data and forecasts. Any news from the Black Sea is also high on the list. USDA's weekly export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT and USDA's Crop Progress report is set for 3 p.m. Weather A storm system that plowed through the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest over the weekend continues eastward for Monday, spreading areas of showers and thunderstorms and heavy rain to portions of the Eastern Corn Belt. Some severe weathe

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 11, 2023 |

U.S. Pork Exports Outstanding in First Half of 2023 U.S. pork exports concluded an excellent first half of the year with another strong performance in June. Pork exports in June hit almost 246,000 metric tons, 12 percent higher than in 2022. Export value rose six percent to $691.4 million. Through the first half of 2023, exports were 14 percent above last year’s pace at 1.47 million metric tons and valued at $4.05 billion, 12 percent higher than in 2022. “While Mexico is the pacesetter for U.S. pork exports, what’s exciting is the industry is achieving broad-based growth internationally,” says USMEF president and CEO Dan Halstrom. While below last year’s record pace, June beef exports topped $900 million in value, pushing first-half export value to almost $5 billion. June’s beef exports totaled 115,107 metric tons, down 12 percent from a year ago and slightly below the May volume. Value was $905.5 million. First-half beef exports were 10 percent behind last year. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Positive Economic Impact of Soil Health The Soil Health Institute and the National Association of Conservation Districts announced the results of a nationwide study showing how improving soil health can improve a farmer’s profitability. The study shows farmers can build resilience across a diversity of soil types, geographies, and cropping systems. Among the key findings across 29 farms, Soil Health Management Systems increased net farm income by an average of $65 per acre. On average, when implementing soil health systems, it costs producers $14 an acre less to grow corn, $7 an acre less to grow soybeans, and $16 an acre less to grow all other crops. Yield increases were reported for 42 percent of farms growing corn, 32 percent of farms growing soybeans, and 35 percent of farms growing other crops. Farmers reported additional benefits like decreased erosion and soil compaction, earlier access to fields in wet years, and increased resilience to extreme weather events. *********************************************************************************** Groups Applaud First Senate Veterinary Medicine Caucus The U.S. Senate has established a Veterinary Medicine Caucus for the first time ever. The caucus will focus on increasing awareness toward veterinary-related matters in Congress, educating lawmakers and their staffs about the challenges facing the profession, and advancing the legislation that benefits the veterinary community. The bipartisan caucus will be led by Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). In past years, the House Veterinary Medicine Caucus led the way in introducing key legislation that impacts veterinary medicine, such as the Rural Veterinary Workforce Act and the Healthy Dog Importation Act. The Senate caucus will extend these efforts to their side of the chamber while also helping secure important funding for veterinary-related federal programs. “The AVMA and American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges are dedicated to working with the caucus on raising awareness of the essential services veterinarians provide and the challenges they currently face,” says Dr. Rena Carlson, AVMA president. *********************************************************************************** June Food Price Index Rebounds Slightly The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization’s Food Price Index averaged 123.9 points in July, up 1.5 points, or 1.3 percent, from June. However, it remains 16.6 points or 12 percent below its value in the corresponding month last year. The July rebound was led by a solid rise in the vegetable oils price index and partially offset by a significant decline in the sugar price index. There were small decreases in the price index for cereals, dairy, and meat. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 129.8 points in July, 14 points, or 12 percent higher, than in June. It’s the first increase after seven straight months of declines. The FAO Sugar Price Index averaged 146.3 points in July, 5.9 points, or 3.9 percent lower, than during June. The Dairy Index was down 0.5 points at 116.3. The Meat Price Index was 117.8 points in July, down 0.4 points from June. *********************************************************************************** Most Americans Are “Food Satisfied” The latest Purdue University Consumer Food Insights Report shows consumers who are most satisfied with their food consumption also spend the lowest share of their incomes on food. The July 2023 survey-based report from Purdue’s Center for Food Demand Analysis and Sustainability assesses food spending, consumer satisfaction and values, support for agriculture and food policies, and trust in their information sources. Three of every four Americans who responded say their food satisfaction is thriving. The researchers found that consumers have yet to embrace meat alternatives as better than beef from cattle. Other results include household food-at-home spending is up 4.6 percent from July 2022, reaching its highest level yet. Consumers’ predictions for food inflation over the next 12 months have dropped to 3.7 percent, the lowest level recorded by the Purdue University survey. Food insecurity is a percentage point down from the previous month but higher than the 2022 average. *********************************************************************************** American Lamb Board Survey Deadline is August 14 The American Lamb Board is gathering data about how sheep are raised, cared for, and fed, for use in U.S. Lamb Checkoff Programs and needs producer input. “Our industry needs this information from America’s producers and feeders for consumers but also to help determine where to invest research and industry outreach funding,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair from Buffalo, Wyoming. One lucky U.S. lamb producer or feeder will win a paid trip, including registration, airfare, and hotel, to the 2024 American Sheep Industry Convention in Denver, Colorado, just for completing the survey. The ALB will compare the results of this survey to the findings from a similar survey done in 2011, and this will let the industry identify areas where the industry has improved and issues that need addressing. Also, the survey data will be utilized to communicate with retailers, chefs, consumers, and guide industry education and research efforts.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 11, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets U.S. producer prices for July will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early August at 9 a.m. USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports are set for 11 a.m., followed by estimates of prevented plantings from the Farm Service Agency at noon. DTN's WASDE webinar begins at 12:30 p.m. Weather A system will bring periods of showers and thunderstorms to the central Corn Belt on Friday. Early morning storms are not likely to be severe but are hitting some of the driest areas in northeast Iowa and southern Wisconsin. Additional development this afternoon and evening could end up being severe from eastern Minnesota and Wisconsin through Missouri and adjacent areas. A front across the southern tier remains active with some clusters of showers as well and continues to bottle-up extreme heat to the south.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 10, 2023 |

Getting More Farmers in Carbon Markets American Farmland Trust and Sierra View Solutions released a report titled “Agricultural Carbon Programs: From Chaos to Systems Change.” The report analyzes 22 agricultural carbon markets and recommends changes that would help these programs succeed. The challenge was underscored by Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack, who says, “Among the many reasons why farmers aren’t enrolling in ag carbon programs, one of the most obvious reasons is the offered payments are too low.” Farmers also don’t take part because the ag carbon programs do not adequately define what a “new practice” is, and they are setting arbitrary caps on participation in different areas. A third problem area is that carbon programs originally designed for forestry projects are being applied to farmers and create unrealistic requirements to sequester carbon for 40 to 100 years. There are also concerns about the length of time for each carbon program and data and technology barriers for agriculture. *********************************************************************************** NASS Releases 2023 Land Values Summary The U.S. farm real estate value, a measurement of the value of all land and buildings on farms, averaged $4,080 per acre for 2023. That’s up $280 per acre, or 7.4 percent, from 2022. The U.S. cropland value averaged $5,460 per acre, an increase of $410 per acre, or 8.1 percent, from the previous year. The U.S. pasture value averaged $1,760 per acre, up $110 per acre, or 6.7 percent from 2022. Among the notable state-level data, the NASS Iowa Field Office says that “Cropland cash rent paid to Iowa landlords in 2023 averaged $269 per acre. Non-irrigated cropland rent averaged $269 per acre, while irrigated cropland averaged $271 an acre, $13 and $19 higher, respectively, compared to last year. Cropland was valued at $10,100 per acre, $750 higher than 2022. In Minnesota, cropland cash rent averaged $198 per acre. Cropland, at $6,820 an acre, was $620 higher than 2022. *********************************************************************************** NACD Targets Local Climate-Smart Conservation Projects The National Association of Conservation Districts is looking for concept papers as it launches the first phase of its $90 million program funded by USDA’s Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities. The program will advance grassroots efforts to ensure producers and local communities are prepared to meet the growing demand for climate-smart commodity markets. Through its network of 3,000 conservation districts and partners, NACD anticipates reaching more than 1,400 producers, more than half of which will be small and underserved producers. With nearly half of the program budget dedicated to producer incentives and payments, it aims to implement climate-smart practices on over 430,000 acres and reduce or sequester over 1.5 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent. NACD wants concept papers detailing innovative ideas that scale implementation of climate-smart practices, advance greenhouse gas measurement, monitoring, reporting, and verification, or support producer participation in resulting markets. The organization will then support project development through a matchmaking process. *********************************************************************************** Bill Would Expand Access to Dairy Products in SNAP A new bipartisan bill introduced in Congress looks to expand access to dairy products for all program recipients. The legislation would amend the Healthy Milk Fluids Incentive program and allow SNAP recipients to get more products like yogurt and cheese. The bill, introduced by Jim Costa and Nick Langworthy, is intended to boost dairy intake and support U.S. dairy farmers. Ninety percent of Americans don’t get enough dairy in their diet. Food Navigator says the bill is endorsed by the International Dairy Foods Association, National Milk Producers Federation, and the National Grocers Association. The bill’s title says it aims to “amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to establish a dairy nutrition incentive program.” The IDFA says the new Dairy Incentives Program Act will enhance the HFMI program’s scope by adding whole and reduced-fat milk, cheese, and yogurt. Michael Dykes of IDFA says milk, cheese, and yogurt are “nutritional powerhouses.” *********************************************************************************** China’s Ag Imports Rise So Far in 2023 China imported more agricultural products in the first six months of 2023 than it did during the same period in 2022 as soybean prices surged higher. The value of those agricultural imports in the first half of this year rose over eight percent compared with the same time in 2022. USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service report says exports overall were relatively flat. Soybean imports jumped 11 percent to a value of $30 billion, while volume rose 14 percent to 52.6 million metric tons. Grain import purchases were up seven percent year-over-year to $45.4 billion as volume gained 4.% percent to 83.4 million metric tons. The agency says Edible vegetable oils saw the biggest percentage increase as the value of those imports rose 139 percent to $5.3 billion, and volume jumped 79 percent higher to 4.5 million metric tons. Chinese imports of U.S. soybeans. gained 12 percent to almost 20 million metric tons. *********************************************************************************** Drought Covers 100% of Iowa A few consecutive dry weeks are giving crops in Iowa varying degrees of drought stress. An Iowa State University Extension expert says there hasn’t been much measurable rainfall for as many as three weeks in many areas. Prior to that dry spell, Iowa had been getting just enough rain at times to get by. Much of the dry weather came when corn and soybeans entered their reproductive stages, which is when those crops need rain the most. A corn or soybean crop typically needs 20 inches of moisture from rainfall and subsoil moisture to produce a crop. However, ISU expert Gentry Sorenson told Successful Farming, “We had a couple of counties that didn’t get any substantial soil moisture recharge through this year. ” Over 17 percent of Iowa’s acres are abnormally dry while 52 percent of the state is in D1 moderate drought. D2 severe drought is impacting 26 percent of the state.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 10, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, consumer price index for July and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Treasury budget for July at 2 p.m. Weather A system that moved through the southern end of the Corn Belt over the past couple of days is pushing into the Southeast where clusters of thunderstorms continue, some of which may be severe. Another system is moving through the Northern Plains. While showers are scattered and light Thursday morning, they are expected to intensify this afternoon and evening as they go through the eastern Dakotas and Nebraska, then into Minnesota and Iowa this evening and overnight.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 9, 2023 |

States Pushing for Year-round E15 Ethanol groups welcome efforts by Nebraska and Iowa prompting the Environmental Protection Agency to create regulations to allow for year-round sales of E15 in at least eight Midwest states. Earlier this year, the governors of Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, and Ohio sent letters to EPA calling for parity between E10 and E15 in their states. EPA proposed a rule in March to make regulatory changes to implement year-round sales of E15 in those states beginning in the summer of 2024.EPA issued temporary emergency waivers to allow continued E15 sales this summer and last summer, but the industry seeks a long-term solution. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "We're hopeful that the action taken by Iowa and Nebraska today will help break the logjam and cause EPA to complete the process as soon as possible." Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor adds, “EPA needs to act now so that fuel retailers have the regulatory clarity they need to make investments and expand access to E15.” *********************************************************************************** NCBA Slams Presidential Overreach in Latest Antiquities Act Designation the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association slammed President Biden’s use of the Antiquities Act to put sweeping federal designations on over a million additional acres of land in Arizona. NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says, “NCBA is strongly opposed to the continued abuse of the Antiquities Act, and we urge President Biden to listen to the local communities that will be hurt by this designation.” The organization says the designation “adds insult to injury” for communities that are unheard and intentionally removed from land management conversations. Additionally, the Biden administration failed to communicate with the affected landowners prior to the designation and their so-called public opinion meeting and poll failed to gather perspective from the people most impacted by this decision. The Antiquities Act gives the President of the United States broad power establish national monuments from existing federal lands. NCBA says the designations are especially harmful to rural communities that rely on federal lands for their livelihood, such as public lands ranchers. *********************************************************************************** EPA Affirms Farmers’ Right to Repair In a letter to the National Farmers Union, the Environmental Protection Agency affirmed that the Clean Air Act cannot be used as a basis to restrict independent repair of farm equipment. In their opposition to Right to Repair legislation, equipment manufacturers and dealers have invoked EPA regulations and the Clean Air Act – specifically related to tampering with emissions control systems – as justification for their need to restrict repair. NFU President Rob Larew says, “EPA confirmed what farmers have known all along – equipment manufacturers have been using bad faith justifications to restrict independent repair.” EPA Administrator Michael Regan stated that “Like NFU and its members, EPA believes barriers to the proper repair and maintenance of nonroad equipment is harmful to the environment.” NFU strongly supports a federal legislative solution that guarantees farmers and independent mechanics the Right to Repair farm equipment on fair and reasonable terms and costs. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Suppliers Meet with Latin American Buyers Red meat buyers from Central and South America and the Caribbean recently met with U.S. suppliers in Colombia, during the 11th edition of the U.S. Meat Export Federation Latin American Product Showcase. With 70 U.S. exporting companies exhibiting at the showcase, 220 importers had the opportunity to meet U.S. suppliers and arrange purchases of a wide range of U.S. red meat products. The value and versatility of underutilized pork, beef and lamb cuts were a focus of the educational activities during the showcase. U.S. industry leaders in attendance also toured a distribution center and several types of retail outlets. Randy Spronk, a farmer from Edgerton, Minnesota, who serves as USMEF chair-elect, attended his third Latin American Product Showcase. He says, "It's great for those that fund USMEF to be able to see what those funds actually do and show the return on their investment." *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Foods Closing 35 Missouri Hog Farms Smithfield Foods will close 35 hog farm operations in Missouri, according to a state-required workforce adjustment notification. The notice indicated 92 employees would be affected by the closures, slated for August. Murphy Brown LLC, a division of Smithfield Foods, is reducing hog farming operations in Missouri and "must reduce its workforce accordingly," a company spokesperson told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Employees impacted by the closures were offered the chance to relocate to other hog-producing facilities operated by the company. Smithfield Foods is the world's largest pork processor and is owned by Hong Kong's WH Group. The announcement follows Tyson Foods' plans to close four chicken processing plants across the United States. Tyson plans to close operations next year at four facilities located in Arkansas, Indiana and Missouri. The U.S. meat industry is facing demand struggles in both pork and poultry thanks to increased prices and inflation, amid higher feed and labor costs. *********************************************************************************** USDA: WIC Participation Increased in 2022 USDA's Economic Research Service reports an increase in participants in the Women, Infants and Children, or WIC program, in 2022. The increase represents the first growth in the program in more than a decade. Participation averaged 6.26 million people a month, up from 6.24 million a month in fiscal year 2021. This was the first increase in overall participation since the record high 9.18 million in fiscal year 2010. Women participants increased by 1.5 percent in fiscal year 2022 after declining for the previous 12 fiscal years, whereas infant participants continued to decline. Declines in the number of births in the United States, beginning in 2008, may be a factor in drops in infant participation, according to USDA. WIC provides supplemental food packages, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and health care referrals at no cost to low-income pregnant and postpartum women, infants younger than one-year-old, and children one to five years old who are at nutritional risk.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 9, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report, including ethanol production is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT, Wednesday's only significant report. Traders will continue to keep close watch on weather and events in Ukraine. Weather A system in the Central Plains will move eastward through the southern half of the Corn Belt Wednesday and into Thursday as well. Widespread showers and thunderstorms, some heavy and strong, will follow the system. Other showers will develop over northern areas with a front dropping south.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 8, 2023 |

Tyson Foods to Close Four Chicken Facilities Tyson Foods Monday announced the planned closure of four chicken processing facilities in the United States. Tyson Foods will close facilities in North Little Rock, Arkansas, Corydon, Indiana, Dexter, Missouri and Noel, Missouri. The company will shift production to other facilities and cease operations at the impacted locations in the first half of fiscal year 2024. Donnie King, Tyson Foods President and CEO, says, "While current market dynamics remain challenging, Tyson Foods is fully committed to our vision of delivering sustainable, top-line growth and margin improvement." Tyson made the announcement as part of its third-quarter fiscal year 2023 results. The company reported a 7.5 percent, or $324 million, operating loss on chicken operations, and a 5.6 percent loss in pork. Tyson Foods will evaluate the financial statement impact of the closures for charges related to contract terminations, impairments, accelerated depreciation, severance and retention and estimates total charges of $300 to $400 million. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Shifts Schools Strategy The dairy checkoff marked its 13th year of impact through Fuel Up to Play 60 –while preparing a strategy to bring more partners together. Beginning this school year, the checkoff will shift to the "Fuel Up" platform. The effort will expand opportunities to increase access to dairy with other foods and engage youth around healthy eating and food production. With the announcement, Dairy Management Inc. is transitioning from a partnership with the NFL to a no-cost collaboration, which paves the way to co-create programs that support youth wellness. DMI President and CEO Barbara O'Brien says, "We need to think differently to protect farmers' ability to deliver long-term value to children and in schools." Fuel Up will work with schools and partners to deliver solutions and resources that increase access to dairy products, expand meal participation and educate students on the role of nutrition in physical wellness and academic achievement. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests Nearly $30 Million to Boost School Nutrition The Department of Agriculture Monday announced nearly $30 million in subgrants to improve school nutrition. The funding is part of USDA's Healthy Meals Incentives Initiative, Action for Healthy Kids. The funding will span 264 school districts across 44 states and the District of Columbia. USDA Deputy Secretary Xochitl (So-CHEEL) Torres Small says, "With these funds, small and rural school districts will be able to modernize their operations and provide more nutritious meals." Each small or rural school district will receive up to $150,000 to support improving the nutritional quality of their meals and modernizing their operations. The efforts include innovative staff training, kitchen updates and renovations, redesigning food preparation and service spaces, and school-district-led initiatives. An online map features the selected school districts and their grant amounts. The map will be updated on a rolling basis as schools formalize their grant agreements. To learn more about other resources USDA provides to strengthen school meal programs, visit the USDA Support for School Meals webpage. *********************************************************************************** Organic Fresh Produce Sales up 1.5% Organic fresh produce grew slightly in sales dollars and volume in the second quarter of 2023, reversing a trend of volume loss seen in 2021 and 2022. Overall, organic fresh produce dollar sales increased by 1.5 percent for Q2 2023 compared to the same period last year, with sales for the quarter topping $2.4 billion. Volume movement nudged up slightly less than one percent, reversing a downward volume trend that started in 2021. During Q2 2023, conventional produce dollar sales grew by two percent, while volume declined by 1.3 percent, as total sales topped $18.8 billion. The Organic Produce Network and Category Partners reports, “The rate of organic sales growth--while still positive--slowed compared to past years, giving volume a chance to match that growth.” In the second quarter of this year, 11 of the top 20 organic fresh produce categories posted increases in dollar sales compared to the same period last year. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Membership Reaches All-Time High The National FFA Organization Monday announced a record-high student membership of 945,988, an increase of 11 percent from last year. In addition, the number of FFA chapters continues to grow — increasing by 168 this year, resulting in 9,163 chapters in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. National FFA CEO Scott Stump says, “It’s exciting to see our numbers grow and know we continue to influence the next generation of leaders,” adding, “We’re excited to see the enthusiasm for agricultural education and FFA reflected in our membership.” The top five membership states are Texas, California, Georgia, Illinois and North Carolina. This year, the organization has more than 150,000 Latino members, more than 50,000 Black members, more than 9,000 Asian members, more than 14,000 American Indian and Alaska Native members, and more than 2,400 Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander members. More than 43 percent of the membership is female, and 49.8 percent is male. *********************************************************************************** Gas and Diesel Prices Move Higher Again The nation's average price of gasoline rose 7.8 cents last week to $3.79 per gallon, and diesel jumped 14.9 cents to $4.14 per gallon. The increases follow the rise in oil prices and pressure from hot weather that impacted refineries. However, the pace of increases has started to slow and appears to have peaked over the weekend and is beginning to gently fall, according to GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan. The fuel market expert says, “Diesel will likely continue to see upward momentum while gasoline price increases should become more limited.” The price of crude oil has rallied for six straight weeks. In recent days, fundamentals have remained solidly in control behind the upward move, as Saudi Arabia continues its severe one million barrel per day production cut, driving prices higher. In addition, government data last week showed the largest weekly decline in U.S. crude oil inventories on record.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 8, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. trade deficit for June is due out at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, followed by the Energy Department's Short-Term Energy Outlook later Tuesday morning. Traders will continue to keep a close watch on weather and events in Ukraine. DTN's Digital Yield Tour continues Tuesday with closer looks at Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. Weather A front that has set up from Oklahoma to the Southeast will be active Tuesday with scattered showers and thunderstorms occurring. A piece of energy moving into the Central Plains will produce more widespread showers and thunderstorms, some of which could be severe. With a front dropping south into the northern states as well, it remains an active pattern for Tuesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 7, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Yield Tour, WASDE, and Drought Relief OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of Aug. 6. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms. 1. DTN Digital Yield Tour: Monday we'll have national yield numbers to kick off the sixth DTN Digital Yield Tour Powered by Gro Intelligence. With all the hit-and-miss rains, the heat, and relatively low pest issues so far this season, it will be truly interesting to see what the satellites and yield models see in terms of yield potential in corn and soybean fields. 2. August WASDE Friday: It will be a market-critical week, culminating in the August World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report. As always, we'll have flash coverage moments after 11:00 a.m. CDT, with updates and analysis throughout the morning. 3. Heat continues retreat: The slow-moving front that drove weather this past week will move south, bringing rain potential to Kansas, Oklahoma, and areas further south. We'll look for the U.S. Drought Monitor update Thursday morning, which will only add to a week full of information on crops as they work through pollination and fill periods. Expect more rains where it has rained, driven by the humidity in those areas. 4. Prop 12 news continues: We had extensive coverage this past week on the influence of California's Proposition 12, which regulates pork sales in that state. Look for more discussion around federal efforts to overrule those regulations. 5. Expected economic reports: We'll be watching and responding to a host of government economic reports. Monday sees USDA's weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT and the weekly Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Note that Canada markets are closed. On Tuesday, the U.S. trade deficit report for June hits at 7:30 a.m., with the Energy Department's Short-Term Energy Outlook later that morning. Wednesday the Energy Department releases weekly energy inventory numbers at 9:30 a.m. On Thursday, we'll look for USDA weekly export sales report, the U.S. weekly jobless claims, and the consumer price index for July. Those and U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy report on natural gas storage hits at 9:30 a.m., with the Treasury budget for July at 2 p.m. On Friday the U.S. producer prices for July are revealed at 7:30 a.m., while the University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for early August comes at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 7, 2023 |

Minneapolis Fed Says Interest Rates Hit Least-Profitable Producers Hardest The Minneapolis Federal Reserve took a look at interest rates and how they are affecting producers in recent months. Interest rates have risen dramatically since last year, raising the cost of borrowing money. Ag producers in the Ninth District face additional expenses arising from supply issues and economic uncertainty. Interest rates have doubled since 2022 for agricultural producers after a decade of historically low and stable rates. The district’s least-profitable producers have higher debt per crop acre compared with the most profitable ones. As rates rapidly increase, cash flow projections for the least-profitable farmers are more sensitive to interest expenses. Increased production expenses could require them to secure even more funding due to lower working capital levels per acre farmed. In most years, the least-profitable producers spend up to three times more on interest expenses per crop acre farmed. Elevated interest rates will continue impacting producers this year and beyond. *********************************************************************************** Large Pork Producers Don’t Favor Overturning Prop 12 Legislation has been introduced in Congress that would overturn California’s Prop 12. Reuters says some of the country’s biggest pork producers who’ve already spent money to comply with the California requirements don’t favor throwing out Prop 12. The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act would curb states’ ability to regulate agricultural products sold within their borders. The bill was introduced in the Senate by Roger Marshall (R-KS) and the House by Representatives by Ashley Hinson (R-IA) and supported by the National Pork Producers Council. Prop 12 bans sales within California of pork, veal, and eggs from animals whose housing conditions fail to meet certain standards. Clements Food Group, the fifth-largest pork processor in the country, says it won’t support the EATS Act. Some of the larger producers in the country like Tyson Foods and Smithfield have said publicly that they’ll be complying with the law when it takes effect on January 1. *********************************************************************************** Support for Crop Insurance is a Theme at Minnesota Farmfest Farmers and policymakers gathered at Farmfest in Minnesota to discuss the important issues in rural America. One regular topic during the House Ag Committee’s listening session was crop insurance. Farmers asked the elected officials in attendance to protect and strengthen crop insurance as they write the next farm bill. Richard Syverson, President of the Minnesota Corn Growers Association, said, “On behalf of thousands of farm families in this state, as you craft this bill, please do no harm to crop insurance. It’s the cornerstone of the farm safety net.” Bob Worth, president of the Minnesota Soybean Growers, expressed the need to protect and strengthen crop insurance so that younger farmers can afford crop insurance coverage. Without the protection provided by crop insurance, those young farmers might not be able to get the working capital they need to plant another season.” House Ag Chair G.T. Thompson was a part of the panel. *********************************************************************************** Drought Conditions Persist in the Missouri River Basin July runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 3.3 million acre-feet, 99 percent of the average. Runoff was near or above average in all reaches except the Fort Peck reach, which was 68 percent of the average. “Soil moisture conditions deteriorated in Montana, North Dakota, and northern South Dakota over the last month and improved across southern South Dakota and into the lower basin,” says John Remus, Army Corps of Engineers Chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. Precipitation was below normal over most of the upper Missouri River basin last month except for small areas in Wyoming and southern South Dakota. The lower basin saw a mix of above-and-below-normal precipitation. The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City is 28.5-million-acre feet, 111 percent of average. System storage on August 1 was 56.3-million-acre feet, 0.2-million-acre feet above the base of the Annual Flood Control and Multiple Use zone. *********************************************************************************** USGC Host Japanese Delegation to Show Off Ethanol Benefits A Japanese delegation recently visited the U.S. to meet with several key policymakers, U.S. Grains Council Staff in Washington, D.C., and visit corn fields and ethanol plants. As part of the Council’s ethanol promotion efforts in Japan, this program aimed to promote ethanol direct blending and new uses of ethanol, including sustainable aviation fuel. The delegation was able to learn more about U.S. policies and incentives in place related to climate change and ethanol. The delegation was led by Akira Amari, a member of the Liberal Democratic Party and the House of Representatives in Japan. “It was important to make sure that Mr. Amari, an influential policy maker, and a strong biofuel advocate, understands the supply capacity of U.S. corn ethanol to meet the growing demand for direct blending and SAF in Japan,” says Tommy Hamamoto, USGC director in Japan. “He was impressed by our robust corn production and ethanol supply.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Holds Ribbon Cutting at New Texas Lab The USDA’s Agricultural Research Service held a dedication last week for the opening of a newly-renovated Grassland, Soil, and Water Research Laboratory in Temple, Texas. The new building will help scientists continue their mission of developing solutions for more efficient use of soil and water resources, enhancing forage and crop production, and supporting sustainable agricultural production by utilizing modern technology. The new lab will focus on several research projects, including enhancing decision support tools for crop and forage production and watershed management. Other projects include developing improved soil, water, and crop management techniques and developing sustainable crop, forage, and biofuel production systems. The scientists also want to increase rangeland productivity and quality and mitigate global climate change effects on agriculture.. ARS Laboratory Research Leader Dr. Douglas Smith says they’re excited to have the facility ready to meet the research needs to support agricultural producers and decision-makers in the years ahead.”

| Rural Advocate News | Monday August 7, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check rainfall amounts and look at the new forecasts. There will also be interest in any news regarding Ukraine. DTN's Digital Yield Tour kicks off Monday with national corn and soybean estimates from Gro Intelligence. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Canada's markets are closed. Weather A system from the weekend that brought widespread precipitation to the Corn Belt will continue over eastern areas on Monday, exiting to the east overnight. The system left behind a front from Oklahoma to the Southeast which will remain active today as well. Another system moving through the West will get into the Central Plains Monday evening, sparking additional showers and thunderstorms as the week becomes very active.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 4, 2023 |

Farm Credit System’s Net Income Drops in 2023 The Farm Credit System’s combined net income decreased 1.4 percent to $1.78 billion for the three and six months ending on June 30, 2023. That’s compared with net income of $1.81 billion and $3.57 billion for the same periods during 2022. “Despite a challenging external environment, the System recognized solid financial results for the first half of 2023,” says Tracey McCabe, president and CEO of the Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corporation. “A strong balance sheet and seasoned underwriting professionals continue to position the System to support the needs of our member-borrowers.” Net income increased $200 million or 7.6 percent to $2.8 billion for the second quarter of 2023 and $420 million or 8.1 percent to $5.6 billion for the six months ending on June 30, compared to the same periods last year. The net income increases primarily resulted from higher levels of earnings driven in part by increased loan volume. *********************************************************************************** Mandatory Base Acre Update Creates “Winners and Losers” For more than 20 years and the last four farm bills, farm program payments were based on a farm’s historical planted acreage, or base acres, and not on actual plantings each year. Several agricultural groups and stakeholders are pushing for an update to base acres in the next farm bill. However, Senate Ag Committee Republicans released a report saying a mandatory base acre update would force farmers to update their farm’s base acres to reflect a more recent snapshot of their planting history. The economic effects would be significant and are conservatively estimated to result in an overall loss of $2 billion to farmers and rural communities because of a decline in farm program benefits in fiscal years 2024 to 2033. “Few in agriculture would benefit from a base acre update,” the report says. “It would create winners and losers and would certainly complicate efforts to pass a farm bill.” *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Create a Permanent Disaster Relief Program Four elected officials from California introduced the “Agricultural Emergency Relief Act” to create a permanent USDA structure that would provide relief to farmers hurt by natural disasters. While Congress routinely provides disaster relief to farmers hurt by natural disasters, the lack of a permanent program has resulted in multiple administrative changes. That can cause confusion for farmers and result in unnecessary delays in implementation. Representative Mike Thompson of California was one of the co-sponsors. He says, “California and many other states have been hit hard by disasters. It’s clear we need a permanent disaster relief program. This bill will help streamline the process for all farmers and growers to receive the relief they deserve.” The legislation would formally authorize a program that already has funding from 2022 and 2023 omnibus bills. It will require farmers who apply for relief payments to purchase crop insurance for two years after receiving a payment. *********************************************************************************** Young Agricultural Leaders Win Awards at Ag Media Summit During the 2023 Ag Media Summit in California, agricultural communications students were honored for their excellence, professionalism, and leadership. The Livestock Publications Council Student Award, sponsored by Alltech, provides travel scholarships for four students to attend the AMS. Following a competitive application and interview process, Carlye (CAR-lee) Winfrey of Texas Tech University won the LPC Forest Bassford Student Award. She’s a senior currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Communications and minoring in political science. “In my future career, I want to help shape policy to best serve the people of rural America,” Winfrey says. “My degree will allow me to walk through the halls of Congress and share the stories that rural America is so desperately needing to be told.” Jenn Norrie, Alltech’s communications manager for North America and Europe, says, “Alltech is proud to support the next generation of agricultural communicators as the ambassadors and voice of our industry.” *********************************************************************************** House Farm Bill Will Address California’s Prop 12 The House Ag Committee Chair says he plans to use the upcoming farm bill to deal with California’s Prop 12 that was upheld by the Supreme Court. Roll Call says pork producers across the country have said this will lead to patchwork laws between states that will interfere with commerce. At Minnesota’s Farmfest, Glenn “GT” Thompson said the Supreme Court did say in its decision that Congress has the power to address the issues caused by Prop 12. However, Congress has chosen not to deal with those issues in the past. Thompson addressed the audience during a farm bill listening session and said the court let it stand because they’re tired of handling Congressional work. Thompson didn’t specify if the Ag Committee would write its own legislation or use pending legislation to deal with California’s law. Bills have already been introduced in both congressional chambers that would nullify Prop 12. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Production and Stockpiles Fall Energy Information Administration data shows that ethanol output and inventories dropped to three-week lows during the week ending on July 28. The biofuel production dropped to an average of 1.06 million barrels a day during the week. The EIA report says that’s down from 1.094 million barrels the previous week and the lowest level since July 7. In the Midwest, the largest producing region in the country, output dropped to 1.005 million barrels a day, on average, from 1.02 million a week earlier. The agency said that’s also the lowest point in three weeks. West Coast production was closer to normal levels of 13,000 barrels a day, down from the previous week’s record total of 25,000 barrels. Production on the Gulf Coast, Rocky Mountain region, and East Coast levels were unchanged from the previous week. Ethanol inventories shrank to 22.86 million barrels a day, down from 23.28 million a week earlier.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday August 4, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for July at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the only significant reports of the day. Traders will remain focused on the latest weather forecasts and events in Ukraine. Weather A stalled frontal boundary continues to be active from the Central Plains to the Tennessee Valley Friday morning, producing areas of heavy rain and flooding. A system is moving out of the central Rockies and into the Northern Plains and is forecast to produce areas of thunderstorms, some of which may be severe toward the front in the south, as well as bouts of heavy rain which may improve soil moisture, but also lead to potential flooding. As has been the case all week long, areas south of the stalled front continue to be very hot.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 3, 2023 |

USDA Partnership Will Strengthen Rural America’s Workforce The U.S. Department of Agriculture is partnering with the Community College Alliance for Agriculture Advancement to strengthen the nation’s rural workforce. USDA’S Acting Rural Development Undersecretary Roger Glendenning made the announcement this week. Through this partnership, USDA and the Alliance will provide community college students in the Midwest with the resources and skill sets that will help them advance in careers in agriculture and rural economic development. This will help ensure America’s rural communities have the leaders and workforce needed to thrive. “USDA works with rural communities to make sure people everywhere have the resources they need to access quality education and good-paying jobs,” Glendenning says. “That’s why we’re finding new ways to work with our partners to ensure our students have the tools they will need to succeed in their coursework today so they can thrive in their careers tomorrow.” For more information on the partnership, go to rd.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Battle Continues Over EATS Act Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) recently said, “We’re getting the heck beat out of us” on the Ending Agriculture Trade Suppression Act. While Marshall led the Senate introduction, U.S. Representative Ashley Hinson (R-IA) introduced a companion bill in the House. For two months, members of the Organization for Competitive Markets, Competitive Markets Action, the Kansas Cattlemen’s Association, and several other groups and organizations have declared their opposition to the EATS Act. The groups call the measure “an assault on state’s rights, and a gift to Chinese pork conglomerates like Smithfield. They are determined to prevent the measure from marginalizing American family farmers and “opening the floodgates” to China’s takeover of American agriculture. Enacting the EATS Act via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws and pave the way for even more foreign intrusion without guardrails. OCM and CMA are spearheading an anti-EATS Act campaign that began in June. *********************************************************************************** RFA Asks EPA to Approve Midwest E15 Petition The Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter this week to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan regarding the E15 RVP Petition from several Midwest Governors. The association wants Regan and his agency to finalize its regulations accepting the petition of eight Midwest governors that would reduce evaporative emissions and allow summertime sales of the lower-cost, low-carbon E15 fuel blend in their states. “Three months have passed since EPA’s public comment period ended, and more than a year has passed since EPA’s statutory deadline to promulgate a final rule approving the Governors’ petition,” wrote RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “And yet, despite strong public support for EPA’s proposal, the agency still has not finalized the rule or publicly provided a schedule for doing so.” He also said the RFA wants the final rule published as soon as possible because the 2024 summer ozone control season is only nine months away. *********************************************************************************** Fertilizer Prices Continue Dropping From Peak Levels in 2022 After reaching historic highs in 2022, prices for major fertilizers have trended consistently lower since then. Farmdoc Daily from the University of Illinois says supply and demand fundamentals, as well as some resolution of the ongoing impacts of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, were contributing factors. Fertilizer prices peaked during the second quarter of 2022. Anhydrous ammonia reached $1,635 per ton in June 2022 and has since declined by almost 47 percent to $870 per ton on July 27. Urea and liquid nitrogen, at $497 per ton and $536 per ton on July 27, have dropped over 50 percent and almost 22 percent, respectively, from their highs reached in 2022. DAP prices have fallen by 20 percent from more than $1,000 per ton in June 2022 to $822 per ton on July 27. Potash prices have fallen over 35 percent to $558 a ton from a peak of $865 in April 2022. *********************************************************************************** Pork Producers Sue Massachusetts Over Animal Housing Law Triumph Foods and a group of Midwest pork producers are suing Massachusetts over its Question 3 law and others that set minimum housing requirements for livestock. The plaintiffs are challenging the constitutionality of the Q3 law and seeking immediate relief from the law before it takes effect on August 24. They also want enforcement stayed until the litigation is complete. The law was approved by voters in 2016, and the plaintiffs say it creates challenges to interstate commerce and places burdensome costs on pork producers outside of Massachusetts. The complaint comes months after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of California’s Prop 12 animal housing regulations. While both California and Massachusetts laws impose housing standards for pork, producers argue Q3 goes further by not allowing the transshipment of whole pork throughout the state. That nuance in the Massachusetts law set off multiple lawsuits filed by restaurant, hospitality, and agriculture groups. *********************************************************************************** Corn Used for Ethanol Down Compared to Last Year USDA data shows corn used to make ethanol and other fuels increased month-to-month in June but were down year-over-year. The amount of corn used to make fuel alcohol was 442.5 million bushels during June, up from 439 million in May. But that was down from the 444.2 million bushels processed during the same month in 2022. The bulk of the corn, at 407.7 million bushels, was used in dry milling, and the rest was wet-milled. Dried Distiller’s Grain production fell six percent on a monthly basis to 390,664 metric tons. The output of DDGs with solubles rose five percent to 1.79 million tons. Processors are expected to use 5.23 billion bushels of corn to produce ethanol in the 2022-2023 marketing year that ends on August 31. Corn use is forecast to rise to 5.3 billion bushels in the next marketing year. Production is projected to be 13.73 billion bushels this year.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday August 3, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly jobless claims, a report on second-quarter productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. factory orders for June are set for 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Traders remain attentive to weather and Ukraine. Weather A front that has been stalled out from the Central Plains through the Tennessee Valley all week remains active on Thursday with areas of showers and thunderstorms Thursday morning and likely again later in the day. Some heavy rainfall across the eastern end of the front could produce some flooding. Another system will be moving through the central Rockies, inducing some stronger thunderstorms on the western end of the front Thursday afternoon and evening. Some severe weather and heavy rain will be possible there as well. South of the front it continues to be very hot.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 2, 2023 |

Farmers Remain Cautiously Optimistic About Ag Economy Farmer sentiment rebounded in June as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer rose 17 points to a reading of 121. June’s sentiment improvement left the index near the April reading of 123 after a one-month swoon in May. Producers report a more optimistic view of the future as the Index of Future Expectations rose 25 points to 123, while their perception of the current situation was unchanged. The Index of Current Conditions reading, at 116, was the same as in May. This month’s Ag Economy Barometer survey was conducted from June 12-16, 2023. The more optimistic view of the future held by respondents was reflected across the board as the Farm Financial Conditions, Short and Long-Term Farmland Value Expectations, and Farm Capital Investment indices all improved in June compared to May. Looking ahead, one-fourth of corn/soybean producers said they expect farmland cash rental rates to rise in 2024. *********************************************************************************** House Ag Chair Hoping for September Farm Bill Markup The Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee plans to release a draft Farm Bill at the end of August. During a Farm Bill listening session in Maine this week, Representative Glenn GT Thompson told the Hagstrom Report he plans a markup "in mid-September," but only if the leadership has told him what week the bill will be scheduled to come up on the House floor. However, that depends on when House leadership will schedule floor time for the bill. The Pennsylvania Republican told attendees of the listening session, "This farm bill is going to be bipartisan, bicameral, on time and highly effective," adding, "Now the time part, we only control the House, we do not control the Senate, but we are doing our job." The House Agriculture Committee is holding additional listening sessions, including one Wednesday (today) at FarmFest in Minnesota. The current Farm Bill expires at the end of the Fiscal Year, September 30, 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases 2022 Farm Expenditures Report At the end of July, the Department of Agriculture released the 2022 United States Total Farm Production Expenditures summary. Farm production expenditures in the United States are estimated at $452.7 billion for 2022, up from $392.9 billion in 2021. The 2022 total farm production expenditures are up 15.2 percent compared with 2021 total farm production expenditures. The four largest expenditures totaled $219.6 billion, accounting for 48.5 percent of total expenditures in 2022. These include feed, 18.5 percent, farm services, 10.8 percent, livestock, poultry, and related expenses, 10.1 percent, and labor, 9.2 percent. In 2022, the United States total farm expenditure average per farm is $226,986, up 15.8 percent from $196,087 in 2021. On average, United States farm operations spent $41,917 on feed, $22,864 on livestock, poultry, and related expenses, $24,469 on farm services, and $20,858 on labor. California contributed most to the 2022 United States total expenditures, with expenses of $46.0 billion. Iowa, the next leading state, has $35.7 billion in expenses. *********************************************************************************** Bipartisan Bill Supports Rural Fishing Communities New legislation would allow businesses that directly support the fishing industry to access existing agriculture loan programs. Introduced by Representatives Chellie Pingree, a Maine Democrat, and Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican, the Fishing Industry Credit Enhancement Act would allow businesses that provide direct assistance to fishing operations, like gear producers or cold storage, to access loans from the Farm Credit System. Pingree says, “Small businesses that directly help our iconic fishing industry should be able to depend on the Farm Credit System as countless farmers, ranchers, and loggers have for decades.” Higgins adds, “Our legislation provides greater parity for America’s seafood producers and the supporting industries.” Farm Credit Council President and CEO Todd Van Hoose says, “Supporting rural communities is a vital piece of Farm Credit’s mission, and this bill will provide more financing options for our rural fishing communities.” Senators Angus King, an Independent from Maine, and Lisa Murkowski, a Republican from Alaska, introduced a companion bill in the Senate. *********************************************************************************** Draft Guidance Not Enough to Prevent Misleading Labeling, NMPF Tells FDA The National Milk Producers Federation says the Food and Drug Administration’s plant-based beverage proposal “falls woefully short of ending the decades-old problem of misleading plant-based labeling using dairy terminology.” In comments to the FDA on the proposal, NMPF emphasized the importance of transparent product labeling to ensure consumer understanding. NMPF president and CEO Jim Mulhern says, "FDA's draft guidance is an encouraging first step toward promoting labeling transparency in the marketplace, but it's not enough." In its comments, NMPF commended FDA for its acknowledgment of consumer confusion over the nutritional content of dairy imitators. Still, NMPF cautioned FDA to adhere to the law by going through the proper legal process, as outlined in NMPF's Citizen Petition and comments. Because of the voluntary nature of the proposed guidance and FDA's undependable labeling enforcement history, NMPF continues its work in Congress to pass the bipartisan, bicameral DAIRY PRIDE Act, which would direct FDA to enforce its own rules and clarify that dairy terms are for true dairy products. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Groups Welcome Flex Fuel Fairness Act Ethanol groups welcome new legislation that seeks to level the playing field for vehicles running on low-carbon liquid fuels like ethanol. Senators Pete Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, and Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, introduced the Flex Fuel Fairness Act last week. The legislation, according to the lawmakers, would provide a meaningful incentive for automakers to manufacture flex-fuel vehicles in addition to battery electric vehicles. Currently, the Biden administration's Environmental Protection Agency has prioritized regulations that favor dramatically increasing production of EVs and forcing them on consumers, according to Senator Rickets, who says, "The Biden EPA has made a mistake and ignored the proven benefits of flex fuel vehicles that can run higher ethanol blends.” Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, “This bill would level the playing field, so both electricity and low-carbon biofuels can drive progress toward a net-zero future.” Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper adds, “This legislation helps unlock the potential of renewable fuels and puts more tools in the toolbox for automakers.”

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday August 2, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The Energy Department's weekly energy inventories will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday and is the only significant report of the day. Traders continue to keep close watch over the weather and any news regarding Ukraine's grain shipments. Weather A stalled boundary around Missouri is especially active early Wednesday morning with heavy rain and training thunderstorms from southern Iowa and along the Mid-Mississippi Valley. This zone is forecast to be especially active for much of the day, which could bring flooding rains to areas in significant drought and potential severe weather. The boundary will be active across the Central Plains as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 1, 2023 |

Farmer to Farmer Education Act Introduced in Senate Senators recently introduced the Farmer to Farmer Education Act. Senators Ben Ray Luján, a New Mexico Democrat, and Jerry Moran, a Kansas Republican, introduced the bill last week. The legislation would leverage existing technical assistance resources by supporting farmer-led education networks and build capacity for new ones—particularly for communities historically marginalized from existing systems—as a key strategy to increase adoption of conservation practices. As farmers and ranchers are met daily with unique challenges, including unexpected weather, droughts, and floods, they often turn to colleagues to find the right answer. The lawmakers say the bill fills a critical gap in federal programs to support and provide guidance to those networks. Specifically, the bill would authorize the National Resources Conservation Service to enter into cooperative agreements with community-based organizations in each state that can identify and build on established and burgeoning peer-to-peer networks, and/or create new ones. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Importing More Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Imports are vital and increasingly important in ensuring fresh fruit and vegetables are available year-round in the United States. Since the 2008 completion of the North American Free Trade Agreement, U.S. fresh fruit and vegetable imports have increased with few interruptions, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Between 2007 and 2021, the percentage of U.S. fresh fruit and vegetable availability supplied by imports grew from 50 to 60 percent for fresh fruit and from 20 to 38 percent for fresh vegetables. The import share increased by more than 20 percentage points during this period for ten crops: asparagus, avocados, bell peppers, blueberries, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, raspberries, snap beans, and tomatoes. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, implemented on July 1, 2020, continues NAFTA's market access provisions for fruit and vegetables. In 2022, Mexico and Canada supplied 51 percent and two percent, respectively, of U.S. fresh fruit imports, and 69 percent and 20 percent, respectively, of U.S. fresh vegetable imports in terms of value. *********************************************************************************** Precision Technology Growth Continues The 2023 Precision Agriculture Dealership Survey shows continued growth in technology to streamline and increase the efficiency of operations, such as in sprayer boom section/nozzle control, turn compensation, fleet management and telemetry. These are possible reactions to input costs and skilled worker shortages, according to Purdue University and CropLife America, organizers of the survey. The enthusiasm continues for applying crop inputs with drones. More dealers will offer drone imagery, but fewer dealers are offering satellite or aerial imagery, and dealers say imagery use is declining on farms. On-farm data continues to be used the most for fertilizer-related decisions and for hybrid/variety selection, but in the last few years, dealers have not increased their use of on-farm data for decision-making. The survey shows 89 percent of dealers use auto guidance on their application equipment/GPS-guided boom section/nozzle controllers on sprayers, which reduce doubling-up and skips, are used at 82 percent of dealerships, and sprayer turn compensation continues to grow, now at 41 percent. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Wildfire Protection Grants The Department of Agriculture Monday announced the application period for the Community Wildfire Defense Grant program. Now in its second year, the competitive program is designed to assist at-risk communities, including Tribal communities, non-profit organizations, state forestry agencies and Alaska Native Corporations with planning for and mitigating wildfire risks. Applications will be accepted for 90 days. The announcement comes after $197 million was awarded to 99 project proposals across 22 states and seven Tribes during the first year of funding. The projects directly support the Forest Service’s ten-year strategy to treat up to 20 million acres of national forests and grasslands and 30 million acres of other lands to reduce wildfire risks. Individual grants will fund up to $250,000 to create and update community wildfire protection plans and up to $10 million for associated wildfire resilience projects. The number of projects selected will be determined by available funding, which is up to $250 million. *********************************************************************************** Brent Boydston Elected U.S. Grains Council Chairman The delegates of the U.S. Grains Council elected Brent Boydston, corn, cereal grains, digital agriculture and carbon lead at Bayer Crop Science, as chairman of its Board of Directors. USGC elected Boydston as chair last week during its 63rd Annual Board of Delegates Meeting in Calgary, Canada. Boydston grew up in a family farming operation near Centerville, Kansas, that raised cattle, corn and soybeans. He assumed his current position with Bayer Crop Science in 2016 and has been on the Council’s Board of Directors ever since. Previously, Boydston served as vice president of public policy at the Colorado Farm Bureau and spent more than seven years working on Capitol Hill. In addition to Boydston, Verity Ulibarri of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program was nominated as vice chairwoman and Mark Wilson of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board was elected secretary-treasurer. Jim Reed of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board and Jim O’Connor of the Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council were also elected as at-large directors. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Surge as Heat Hits Refinery Output The nation’s average gasoline price soared 16.5 cents in the last week to $3.72 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average diesel price jumped 15.5 cents last week, reaching $3.99 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “Prices suddenly soared over the last week due to heat-related refinery outages that impacted some of the largest refineries in the country.” The outages come at a time when summer gasoline demand peaks and as gasoline inventories slid to their lowest July level since 2015. Average gasoline and diesel prices are rising at the fastest pace in over a year, but the rise seen in the last week should now start slowing. As we get closer to the peak of hurricane season, any new issues could easily push the national average over $4 per gallon for the first time in 2023, according to De Haan. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 0.9 percent fall last week, potentially having peaked for the summer as August brings the return to school for millions.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday August 1, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Manufacturing reports from the world will roll in overnight and the ISM index of U.S. manufacturing will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. Traders will keep track of the latest forecasts and any news regarding Ukraine. NASS's Fats and Oils report will be out at 2 p.m. Weather A front continues to be stalled from the Central Plains to the Tennessee Valley where heavy rain is already falling in Missouri early Tuesday morning. Additional showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop near the front later Tuesday and could become severe with potential for heavy rain as well. The more likely scenario for severe storms occurs farther north as a system moving through Canada brings a front through the Northern Plains. Scattered thunderstorms are likely to develop and could be severe around North Dakota, possibly into northern Minnesota as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 31, 2023 |

NPPC Releases Q3 Economic Update The National Pork Producers Council released its third-quarter pork industry economic update covering the top pork industry issues, current trends, and marketing issues impacting U.S. farmers. Among the biggest takeaways, California’s Prop 12 creates significant challenges and market uncertainty for pig farmers across the country and has far-reaching implications beyond the pork industry. High production costs continue to be a major challenge to pig farmers’ profitability. The average cost and breakeven levels are nine percent higher than a year ago and have risen 60 percent in the last three years. Hog slaughter and pork production increased an estimated 1.2 percent and 0.3 percent respectively through mid-July 2023. USDA now says pork production will increase 1.4 percent this year, while domestic pork availability is expected to drop 2.5 percent to 49.8 pounds per capita for this year. “Despite the challenges, our pork industry is incredibly resilient,” says Scott Hays, NPPC President. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Target Farm Payments Where Needed Most Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) introduced legislation to rein in abuse of the farm payment system and ensure support goes to those actively engaged in farming. The “Farm Program Integrity Act” would create a hard cap of $250,000 in total commodity support for any one farm operation and require beneficiaries of the system to spend at least 50 percent of each year engaged in farm labor or management. Currently, just ten percent of farm operations receive 70 percent of all yearly farm payment subsidies. “It isn’t right to send bloated farm payments to people who are more familiar with an office chair than a tractor seat,” says Grassley. “This bill brings honesty to the farm payment system and prioritizes farming families over mega-farms.” Brown also says, “Too often, farm program payments have gone to producers who don’t need support or to people who aren’t even involved in farming.” *********************************************************************************** Rabobank Issues Quarterly Hog and Pig Update The latest Rabobank quarterly pork report shows global pork markets are being influenced by sluggish economic growth, weak consumption, and recurrent disease outbreaks. After a strong first half of 2023, global trade is expected to weaken in the months ahead. Despite lower food prices, production costs should remain above pre-COVID levels. The first-half strength was driven by an increase in Chinese imports. Sales in the Philippines saw a major decline. Japan, another major U.S. pork importer, saw flat trade, with a slight shift in sourcing pork from Europe to the U.S. The EU and United Kingdom pork supply dropped in the first four months of 2023, with some countries seeing declines at double-digit rates. Sluggish economic growth has been impacting pork consumption around the world. But pork is still cheaper than beef and premium seafood and more expensive than poultry, so it holds a relatively stable position on consumers’ palates. *********************************************************************************** Farmers, Ranchers Storm Capitol Hill Opposing EATS Act The Organization for Competitive Markets and the Competitive Markets Action led several organizations on a trip to Capitol Hill to oppose the EATS Act. The groups say the Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression Act via the farm bill would eliminate hundreds of state agricultural laws, effectively paving the way for even more foreign intrusion without safety measures in place. The absence of these rules, especially those that support family farms and ranches, would mean Chinese corporations like Smithfield Foods could easily expand into all 50 states. The groups support the OFF Act, or “Opportunities for Fairness in Farming.” The OFF Act would create a system of checks and balances within USDA’s Commodity Checkoff Programs, prohibit checkoffs from utilizing taxpayer dollars to lobby against farmers’ best interests and prohibit disparagement of one product by another. The groups say that practice has long allowed the federal government to pick winners and losers in the marketplace. *********************************************************************************** CNH Industrial Net Income Jumps 35 Percent CNH Industrial reported Q2 consolidated revenues of $6.57 billion, eight percent higher than the same quarter in 2022. The company’s net income totaled $710 million and Adjusted Net Income was $711 million. Net cash used by operating activities totaled $139 million and Industrial Free Cash Flow generation hit $386 million in the second quarter of this year. Net sales for industrial activities hit $5.95 billion, up $341 million compared to the second quarter of last year. The company saw significant improvements in Gross Profit Margin for the Agriculture and Construction segments. A release from the company says, “The CNH Industrial team delivered great results in Q2 as we capitalized on favorable market fundamentals and solid operational execution. Our Agriculture segment set margin records, and for the first quarter in the company’s history, Construction net sales surpassed $1 billion. We are transforming the business and expanding our technology investments to drive growth.” *********************************************************************************** Export Sales of Corn, Soybeans, and Wheat Rise A report says corn, soybean, and wheat export sales all rose week-to-week during the seven days ending on July 20. USDA data says corn sales during the week rose 33 percent from the previous week to 314,000 metric tons, 15 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Mexico was the biggest buyer at 175,900 metric tons. For the next marketing year beginning on September 1, sales hit 335,800 metric tons. Soybean sales were noticeably higher from the previous week and surged 73 percent higher than the previous four-week average. Sales totals for 2023-2024 totaled 544,6000 metric tons, with China as the biggest buyer at 275,000 metric tons, followed by Mexico’s 70,300 metric tons and Egypt at 63,000 metric tons. Wheat export sales of 233,200 metric tons for the 2023-2024 marketing year were up 37 percent from the previous week. However, that total was down 17 percent from the prior four-week average.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 31, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Temperatures Cool, Heat Effects Linger on Crops, Congress and Markets OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 30. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Heat brings feedlot deaths: The weekend saw scattered reports of cattle deaths from feedlots in Nebraska and other sweltering states. Numbers, while devastating locally, seemed to not be at the level to move market prices. We'll monitor those areas. 2. Welcome cooling: Scattered rains late last week and into this week bring a slight cooling to major cropping areas. Monday's USDA weekly Crop Progress Report will give a look at crop condition going into those rains, we'll watch through the week for signs of improvement. For our latest thoughts on weather and markets, 3. Ukraine watch: Markets so far have calmed following the crumbling of the Ukraine grain deal and subsequent shelling of the Odesa grain port. But at some point, the bushels missing in the global grain bin could regain traders' attention, noted DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman. 4. Recess lights dumpster fire on House playground: With Congress taking summer recess without passing an appropriations bill, the scene is set for another government shutdown threat come September. It bears watching whether the time back home soothes divisions or whether hanging with the base simply throws gas on this smoldering dumpster fire. 5. Reports to watch: In addition to Monday's Crop Progress report, there is a stream of business and economic news coming throughout the week. On Tuesday the latest world manufacturing indices come out at 9 a.m. CDT. Latest NASS Fats and Oils report hits at 2 p.m. that day. The Energy Department's weekly energy inventories is released at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Thursday morning, we'll watch USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, second-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due out at 7:30 a.m. The latest (June) report on U.S. factory orders is at 9 a.m.; the U.S. Energy Department natural gas storage numbers hit at 9:30 a.m. Then, Friday sees Labor Department reports on nonfarm payrolls and U.S. unemployment at 7:30. We'll also gear up for the sixth DTN Digital Yield Tour, powered by Gro Intelligence, which kicks off the week of Aug. 7.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 31, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will remain focused on changes in weather and events from Ukraine. As usual, USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Monday being the final day of July is also first notice day for August soybean and soy product futures. Weather A frontal boundary has stalled out from the Central Plains to the Tennessee Valley on Monday. South of the front, it remains hot with stressful conditions for both crops and animals. The front will be a focus for showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, as will a weak system sliding south along the Mississippi River. Yet another system moving through the Canadian Prairies will keep that area and the Northern Plains a bit active as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 28, 2023 |

New Jersey Signs Gestation Crate Legislation New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed a bill into law that bans crates used to confine mother pigs and calves. The bill requires the state’s Department of Agriculture to update humane standard regulations allowing the animals to move more freely and turn around. A coalition including the Humane Society of the U.S. and the Animal Legal Defense Fund included over 60 businesses, environmental organizations, and animal protection groups in pressing the case. They said this kind of measure enhances public health, promotes food safety, and reduces animal suffering on “factory farms.” They also point out that numerous scientists and a landmark United Nations report on pandemic risks have noted that the extreme confinement of farm animals is one of the top drivers of diseases transmitted from animals to humans and the spread. “Now, we can properly address both animal misery and public health risks,” says Elissa Frank, N.J. HSUS State Director. *********************************************************************************** Partnership to Combat Misinformation on Animal Agriculture The Animal Agriculture Alliance and the National Institute for Animal Agriculture have partnered to combat misinformation about animal ag. The combination will maximize their areas of expertise to ensure sound scientific information about animal agriculture is getting communicated effectively to key audiences. As part of the relationship, NIAA will serve as a resource for scientific research and educational expertise. The AAA will work to communicate this information to key audiences. “This partnership will give us greater access to technical experts to make sure we’re communicating accurate, science-backed, and expert-supported information to these audiences,” says Hannah Thompson-Weeman, Alliance President and CEO. JJ Jones, NIAA executive director, says, “Working alongside the AAA means we are positioned to better support the animal agriculture community in communicating science while combating misinformation.” The partnership will entail coordinating media responses on technical issues with third-party expertise and hosting regular issue updates with key stakeholders from each organization. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Producers Direct Action on Cell-Cultured Products Members of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association passed a directive to continue advocating for transparent labeling and inspection of cell-cultured protein products. While NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says cattle producers aren’t afraid of competition, he knows that consumers will continue choosing real high-quality beef over cell-cultured imitations. “Our priority is ensuring that consumers know the difference between real beef and cell-cultured products through transparent and accurate labeling,” Wilkinson says. “We have already been successful at encouraging the USDA to conduct robust inspections and oversight to protect food safety.” The directive was brought forward by the Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association, California Cattlemen’s Association, and the Florida Cattlemen’s Association and passed during the NCBA’s summer business meeting. All policies passed at the meeting get forwarded to NCBA’s general membership for a full vote this fall. Earlier this year, the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued two grants of inspection to cell-cultured chicken imitation products. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Videos Tell Farm Bill Stories The National Corn Growers Association released a video series featuring corn growers from around the nation telling their stories about how the farm bill affects each of their operations. The videos were unveiled at Corn Congress, which was recently held in Washington, D.C. The series features four farmers from Pennsylvania, Texas, Kansas, and Ohio. These NCGA members shared the importance of crop insurance, trade, farm safety net programs, and USDA’s conservation programming. Brooke Appleton, NCGA vice president of public policy, says the project’s goal is to help directly communicate with policymakers and their staff about the importance of the farm bill to corn growers and their families. “Nearly half of all House members weren’t around during the 2018 Farm Bill debate,” Appleton says. “We’ve known for some time that new member education would be key to our comprehensive advocacy efforts on the farm bill.” Check out the videos at ncga.com. *********************************************************************************** Biotechnology Organization Lists Farm Bill Priorities The Biotechnology Innovation Organization says the next farm bill offers opportunities to invest in long-term food security, climate resiliency, and growing the national bio-economy. The group has submitted recommendations to the agriculture committees in both chambers of Congress as they work on writing the new legislation. “A farm bill centered on innovation stands to incentivize the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and practices, resulting in benefits to the environment and rural economies,” says Beth Ellikidis, BIO’s vice president of agriculture and environment. Among their recommendations, they say they’d like increased funding for the Biobased Markets or BioPreferred Program, which directs federal agencies to increase their biobased and renewable product purchases. They’d like to see Congress increase funding and make administrative improvements to the federal program to help build or retrofit facilities to produce advanced biofuels, renewable chemicals, and other biobased products. Among several other recommendations, BIO wants streamlined regulations for biotechnologies. *********************************************************************************** House Bill Would Help Farmers and Ranchers Combat Drought Congresswoman Yadira (Yah-DEER-ah) Caraveo (Care-ah-VEY-oh) (D-CO) introduced a bill that would help family farmers and ranchers fight drought. The Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act gives farmers and ranchers the flexibility they need to protect groundwater sources while also keeping agricultural lands in production under a new voluntary groundwater easement program. The legislation comes as aquifers in the Western U.S., a crucial source of water for rural communities and farmers, are in decline. The bill creates a new Groundwater Conservation Easement Program at USDA to encourage voluntary, compensated reductions in groundwater consumption on agricultural land and advance local, regional, or state groundwater management goals. Additionally, it will guarantee long-term management flexibility for a producer to continue farming and choose how they reduce water use, as long as they conserve the amount they’ve committed to reducing. Producers would also get paid based on the market value for the water right instead of per acre.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 28, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. index of personal consumption expenditures, an inflation gauge for June, is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending for June and the Labor Department's employment cost index for the second quarter. The University of Michigan's final index of consumer sentiment for July follows at 9 a.m. For grain traders, weather and events in Ukraine remain high on the list of interest. Weather Heat continues to envelop most of the U.S. on Friday, stressing areas with inadequate moisture. But the northern edge of the heat continues to be a good place to produce showers and thunderstorms. That is especially true with a cold front across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest slowly sagging southward. Strong to severe thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and evening in and around Iowa and extending east through the southern Great Lakes in a couple of waves. Any rainfall will be welcome to limit the effects of the heat during a critical time for corn and soybean development.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 27, 2023 |

USDA: Food Inflation Mostly Lower in 2023 Compared to 2022 Retail food prices increased 4.8 percent in the first six months of 2023, lower than the rate of midyear inflation in 2022, of 8.2 percent. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports the 20-year average for midyear inflation from 2002 to 2021 was 1.6 percent. All food categories except for sugar and sweets experienced smaller price increases through the first half of 2023 compared with the same period in 2022. Prices for eggs increased the most, 13.7 percent, so far in 2023, followed by fats and oils and cereals and bakery products. All food categories increased in price in the first six months of 2023 compared with 2022, but the increases for meats, fresh fruits, fish and seafood, and fresh vegetables, were below their historical average price increases. Inflationary pressures and trends differ by food category. Prices will continue to change during the remainder of 2023, according to USDA, and may affect the annual inflation rate. *********************************************************************************** Global Shocks Disproportionately Hurt Farmers Global shocks over the past few years have created an unprecedented “polycrisis” that has disproportionately hurt small-scale farmers and people living in food-deficit countries. The data comes from a new report commissioned by Farm Journal Foundation. The COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts including the Russia-Ukraine war, and climate change have created far-reaching impacts across global food systems, affecting food, fertilizer, feed, fuel, and financing available to producers. The resulting polycrisis has left humanity vulnerable to future “black swan” moments that could have even more severe and far-reaching consequences for global food supplies. One of the researchers says, “Already, millions of smallholder farmers and their families were teetering on the edge of survival due to long-term structural challenges, and this polycrisis has pushed countless into disaster.” To alleviate global food insecurity, the report says the U.S. should invest more in international agricultural research and innovation. More research is needed across climate change adaptation and mitigation, soil health and nutrient management, crop diversity and nutrition, access to markets and finance, supply chain infrastructure, and local capacity building. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Reject Anti-checkoff Legislation Agriculture checkoff groups jointly announced opposition to legislation they say attacks commodity checkoff programs. An Amendment by Representative Victoria Sparts, a Republican from Indiana, would prohibit USDA from using any tax dollars to administer commodity Checkoff programs. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association, American Soybean Association, National Pork Producers Council, and National Milk Producers Federation, along with the Indiana Beef Cattle Association, jointly voiced opposition to the effort. NCBA Policy Division Vice Chair Tim Schwab, an Indiana cattle producer, says, "Representative Spartz's amendment targets programs like the Beef Checkoff and is a direct attack on America's farmers and ranchers." The groups say the legislation is "frivolous" as "no taxpayer dollars are being used to administer Checkoff programs." USDA oversees 22 commodity Checkoff programs that boost demand for products like beef, eggs, lamb, cotton, blueberries, honey, mangos, peanuts, mushrooms, watermelons, dairy, cotton, popcorn, and even Christmas trees. Farmers and ranchers invest in these programs, and that funding supports agricultural research and promotional efforts. *********************************************************************************** Growth Energy Sides with EPA in Lawsuit Growth Energy recently filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in The San Antonio Refinery, LLC, v. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The case pertains to a group of refineries seeking to avoid complying with the Renewable Fuel Standard, which requires oil refiners to blend a specific amount of biofuels into their fuel each year. The petitioning refineries allege that the EPA's "Alternative RIN Retirement Schedule for Small Refineries"--an adjustment made to allow refineries to meet their RFS obligations over an extended period of time--did not go far enough and should have allowed the refineries not to comply with the RFS at all. Growth Energy's amicus brief reiterates the fact that the oil industry continues to look for ways to avoid complying with the RFS. Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says, "The oil industry should stop playing the victim and get on board with the most successful climate policy enacted to date." *********************************************************************************** USDA Continues Field Evaluation of Oral Rabies Vaccine USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wednesday announced it will continue field evaluation of the oral rabies vaccine bait ONRAB in eight states. The effort is part of a larger-scale rabies prevention effort and will assess distribution methods and effectiveness in raccoons, skunks, and other wildlife. Beginning in late July, APHIS and cooperators will distribute approximately 3.5 million vaccine baits in parts of Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia to test the immune effects in targeted wildlife. During October, APHIS also will distribute vaccine baits in parts of Tennessee. The vaccine bait is a blister pack filled with the vaccine and coated with a sweet attractant. When an animal bites into one of the baits, it will release the vaccine into their mouth and, with an adequate dose, develop immunity to rabies. Humans and pets cannot get rabies from contact with the bait but are asked to leave the bait undisturbed if they encounter it. *********************************************************************************** USDA Launches Pilot to Increase Affordable Homeownership on Tribal Lands USDA Wednesday announced it is launching two pilot programs to increase affordable homeownership opportunities for people on Tribal lands. USDA Rural Development Acting Under Secretary Roger Glendenning says, "The assistance I'm announcing today will help people across this nation have the resources they need to build, purchase or repair homes in Tribal communities." USDA is launching the Tribal Property Valuation Pilot Program. It provides approved lenders the opportunity to obtain desktop appraisals for mortgage transactions on Tribal land. This program will help decrease the cost and eliminate potential inaccuracies of appraisal reports completed on properties located on Tribal land. The Department is also launching the Tribal Rehabilitation Pilot Program to help people remain in safe and improved housing on Tribal lands and improve their quality of life. Many homes on Tribal lands have been passed on from one generation to the next and need renovations to make them safe and bring them up to current codes. Funds under this program may be used to finance repairs to these homes.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 27, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be released at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly jobless claims, U.S. durable goods orders for June, a report on second-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Weather A hot ridge continues to dominate the U.S. with widespread heat and humidity causing stress to anything living outside. The northern edge of the ridge continues to be an active place with thunderstorms expected to develop across the Corn Belt, some of which may be significantly severe across the Upper Midwest Thursday afternoon and evening. A cold front has worked itself through Canada and will bring relieving temperatures from north to south in the coming days.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 26, 2023 |

USDA Introduces Data to Show Crop Rotation Patterns The Department of Agriculture Tuesday unveiled a geospatial product called Crop Sequence Boundaries that offers national-scale visual crop rotation data for the first time. Crop Sequence Boundaries, or CSB technology, is a cutting-edge map of agricultural fields that provides crop acreage estimates and historical planting decisions across the contiguous United States. The open-source product uses satellite imagery and other public data to allow users to analyze planted U.S. commodities, enhancing agricultural science and research and providing producers an innovative resource to help make farming decisions. The new tool was developed by USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service and Economic Research Service, two of the department's statistical scientific research agencies. CSB incorporates technological advances in satellite imagery and high-performance cloud computing with Google Earth Engine. It is one of several tools that NASS and its partners have developed to support agricultural analyses and make data more accessible and valuable to the public. Access CSB at nass.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Emergency Rural Health Care Grants The Department of Agriculture Tuesday announced Emergency Rural Health Care Grant recipients. Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small made the announcement in Charlottesville, Virginia. The funds will expand access to health care for more than five million people living in 39 states and Puerto Rico. Torres Small says, "USDA's Emergency Rural Health Care Grants are helping strengthen rural America's health care infrastructure to build for the future." USDA is awarding $129 million to improve healthcare facilities in rural towns nationwide. These grants will help 172 rural healthcare organizations expand critical services. The investments will help regional partnerships, public bodies, nonprofits and Tribes solve regional rural healthcare challenges. For example, in the Midwest, Southern Illinois Hospital Services is partnering with local healthcare organizations to build an in-patient psychiatric unit to address a regional need to expand access to mental healthcare services for people in Southern Illinois. Find a list of grant recipients at USDA.gov. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Egg Production Increased in June United States egg production totaled 9.08 billion during June 2023, up four percent from the same time last year. USDA’s monthly Chicken and Eggs report shows production included 7.78 billion table eggs, and 1.3 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.2 billion were broiler-type and 95.8 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during June 2023 totaled 387 million, up five percent from last year. June egg production per 100 layers was 2,348 eggs, down one percent from June 2022. Total layers in the United States on July 1, 2023, were 386 million, up five percent from last year. The 386 million layers consisted of 317 million layers producing table or market-type eggs, 65.0 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.69 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on July 1, 2023, averaged 78.5 eggs per 100 layers, down one percent from July 1, 2022. *********************************************************************************** Bayer Lowers Outlook on Reduced Glyphosate Sales The Bayer Group adjusted its full-year outlook for 2023 downward this week, mainly due to a significant further decline in sales of glyphosate-based products. For full-year 2023, Bayer now anticipates sales of between 48.5 billion and 49.5 billion euros, or roughly $54 billion in U.S. funds. The company also adjusted its forecast for core earnings per share to between 6.20 and 6.40 euros, which was previously forecasted at 7.20 to 7.40 euros. Bayer already guided towards the lower end of its Group sales and earnings forecast for this year. Further price declines and lower volumes due to channel de-stocking, especially for glyphosate-based products, as well as adverse weather conditions, have increased pressure. Based on the anticipated market development, in particular with respect to the glyphosate business, Bayer also expects to record a goodwill impairment of approximately 2.5 billion euros. This will result in negative Group net income of approximately two billion euros for the second quarter of 2023. *********************************************************************************** AFIA Accepting Nominations for Friend of Pet Food Award The American Feed Industry Association is now accepting nominations through August 28 for its annual Friend of Pet Food Award. Launched in 2019, the award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to support the growth of the pet food industry. Louise Calderwood, AFIA director of regulatory affairs, says the award “recognizes the tireless efforts of those committed to ensuring the well-being and happiness of our furry friends through cutting-edge nutritional discoveries.” An ideal nominee will be currently employed and active in the pet food industry or an associated area, such as new product development, transportation, regulatory, academia, media or promotion. There is no restriction by company or industry affiliation, or the function performed by the nominee. The award winner will be invited to attend the 2024 AFIA Pet Food Conference , which is being held in conjunction with the International Production & Processing Expo in Atlanta, Georgia, in January. To nominate someone, visit afia.org. *********************************************************************************** RFA Safety Programs Win National Awards The Renewable Fuels Association’s nationally recognized safety programs have been honored with their 11th consecutive National Achievement Award from the Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response, a national hazardous materials safety coalition. RFA's Director of Safety and Technical Programs, Missy Ruff, received an Individual Recognition Award for her efforts. More than 12 years ago, RFA created comprehensive training programs for first responders and other stakeholders on the topics of ethanol safety and emergency management. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "The ethanol industry continues to maintain an impeccable safety record, which is a direct result of RFA's ongoing safety efforts." In 2022, more than 1,200 attendees were trained via 37 training opportunities supported by RFA. Since its inception in 2010, RFA's safety program has been responsible for training over 15,000 individuals and conducting over 400 training sessions and events. RFA has trained individuals from all 50 U.S. states and 40 other countries.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 26, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets U.S. new homes sales will be out at 9 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. The Federal Reserve announcement is scheduled at 1 p.m., followed by a press conference with Fed Chairman Powell. Traders remain focused on the latest weather forecasts and on Russia's attacks on Ukraine. Weather A system moving through Canada is providing enough energy across the northern Corn Belt for thunderstorm development early Wednesday from Minnesota into Wisconsin. A little disturbance with these thunderstorms will continue eastward Wednesday, which may turn into more severe clusters across the Great Lakes later in the day. Additional storms may develop in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies as well. All of this activity is coming on the northern end of a ridge of heat that continues to spread throughout the U.S. with significantly hot temperatures.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 25, 2023 |

Legislation Would Exempt Farms From Emission Reporting A group of lawmakers last week introduced legislation to exclude reporting of routine emissions from livestock farms to state and local emergency response authorities. The National Pork Producers Council supports the legislation. Pork producers and other livestock industries have engaged with federal and state regulators for decades over permitting and reporting of air emissions. This engagement has included both the air consent agreements that many producers signed, exempting them from having to file emergency reports to first responders. In 2018, Congress permanently exempted livestock farmers from having to report emissions under the Superfund law to the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Response Center. At the same time, EPA exempted those same farms from making similar reports to state and local first responders. Following litigation, the Biden Administration agreed to re-open that rulemaking to reconsider the exemption from the emergency release reporting rule. The new legislation would clarify that the 2018 Farms Act, and EPA’s prior regulations, were correct and that livestock farms should not be required to inundate local fire departments with emission reports. *********************************************************************************** USDA Invests in Research, Extension and Education at 1890 Land-grant Universities The Department of Agriculture announced Monday an investment of more than $33 million to support capacity-building efforts at 1890 Land-grant Universities. The investment, administered through USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, will support 82 research, Extension, and education projects across the nation’s 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities designated as 1890 Land-grant Universities. The projects are part of NIFA’s 1890 Capacity Building Grants Program, which is designed to build capacity for teaching, research, and Extension activities. Eligible institutions are receiving funding for a range of activities, including curriculum design, materials development, faculty development, student recruitment and retention, and Extension program development support. Research investments will strengthen the quality and diversity of the nation’s higher-education workforce, bolster research and knowledge delivery systems, and equip 1890 Land-grant Universities with resources needed to better address emerging challenges and create new opportunities. All 19 eligible 1890 Land-grant Universities will receive funding through the program. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Elects Corn Board Delegates Delegates attending the National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Congress last week elected four farmers to serve on the organization’s Corn Board. The leaders will take office October 1, the start of NCGA’s 2024 fiscal year. The new board members are Troy Schneider of Colorado, Kelly Nieuwenhuis (new-in-house) of Iowa and Bill Leigh of Illinois. Current board member Jed Bower of Ohio was re-elected. All four candidates were elected to three-year terms. NCGA Nominating Committee Chairman Chris Edgington says, “This year’s Corn Board candidates brought impressive records of service to their fellow farmers." The NCGA Corn Board represents the organization while directing policy and supervising day-to-day operations. Board members represent the federation of state organizations, supervise the affairs and activities of NCGA in partnership with the chief executive officer and implement NCGA policy established by the Corn Congress. Members also act as spokesmen for the NCGA and enhance the organization's public standing on all organizational and policy issues. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Mostly Use Manure Sources from Their Own Operations Farmers who utilize manure as a fertilizer mostly get the aromatic livestock byproduct from their own operations. New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows most manure applied to U.S. cropland, 78 percent, comes from animals raised on the same operation. Meanwhile, 14 percent is purchased, and eight percent is obtained at no cost from other animal operations. In 2020, manure was applied to about 8 percent of the 240.9 million acres planted to 7 major U.S. field crops. For most crops, farmers use manure that either comes from their own farm or at no cost from other farms. However, cotton and peanut producers are the most likely to purchase manure, typically from poultry growers. Among all animal manure types, poultry litter has the highest nutrient content, making it less costly to transport. Animal producers who apply their operations’ manure to their own crops account for a high proportion of manure used on oats, corn, and barley crops, followed by soybean and wheat. *********************************************************************************** California Consumes Nearly All U.S. Renewable Diesel California accounts for nearly all renewable diesel consumption in the United States, according to data released last week by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. California's consumption of renewable diesel was more than eight times the amount produced there in 2021. Instead, most of California’s renewable diesel was produced in other states or was imported. California’s renewable diesel consumption grew substantially after its Low Carbon Fuel Standard went into effect in 2011. Between 2011 and 2021, consumption grew from one million barrels to 28 million barrels per year, over 18 times its original volume. Six states—Louisiana, North Dakota, California, Wyoming, Washington, and Kansas—accounted for all renewable diesel production in the United States in 2021. Many of the plants in the other states have exclusive agreements to send all of the renewable diesel they produce to distributors in California. U.S. renewable diesel production capacity could more than double by 2025, boosting domestic production. *********************************************************************************** Gasoline Supply at Lowest Level Since 2015 The nation's average price of gasoline increased 2.1 cents last week to $3.55 per gallon. The national average diesel price increased 2.7 cents in the last week and stands at $3.83 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "It's been a remarkably quiet summer for gas prices, which have been far less active than normal." The national average gas price has remained in the same ten-cent range since April. The rally in oil prices has been sustained into a fourth straight week, with refined products joining in with oil to show impressive strength, with the last week seeing a sharper upside than previous weeks. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 0.6 percent rise last week as demand pushed higher into late July, typically when summer demand peaks. Diesel prices at the top ten percent of stations in the country average $4.90 per gallon, while the bottom ten percent average $3.30 per gallon.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 25, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets An index of U.S. consumer confidence in July is set for 9 a.m. CDT Tuesday. The Federal Reserve begins a two-day meeting Tuesday that is expected to result in a quarter-percent increase on Wednesday afternoon. USDA's monthly cold storage report will be out at 2 p.m. CDT. Traders remain fixated on the latest weather developments and events from Ukraine. Weather A dome of high temperatures continues to expand and intensify across the U.S. on Tuesday. On the northern edge of the heat, a system going through Canada will make for some showers across the Northern Plains and into the Upper Midwest, some of which may be severe and lessen the impact of the increasing heat.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 24, 2023 |

Milk Producers React to USDA Announcement on FMMO U.S. dairy farmers applaud the USDA for moving forward by including the full scope of the National Milk Producers Federation proposal on the Federal Milk Marketing Order system, which the agency is in the process of modernizing. The recognition of National Milk’s consensus-based leadership allows the industry to continue the momentum for the changes achieved so far. Each piece of the proposal - from returning to the “higher-of” Class One mover as soon as possible to updating both Class One price differentials and manufacturing cost allowances - has been crucial toward building that consensus. “All the components of our plan are critical to a successful update to this important program,” says NMPF Board chair Randy Mooney. “There is still a long journey ahead toward a modernized federal order system that works better for farmers, but NMPF is ready.” The Federation is excited to help lead the industry toward solutions that work for everyone. *********************************************************************************** Senate Bill Would Bring Transparency to Foreign Land Purchases Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) introduced bipartisan legislation to increase the transparency and oversight of foreign ownership in America’s agricultural industry. The “Farmland Security Act of 2023” builds on the “Farmland Security Act of 2022” by ensuring that all foreign investors, including “shell companies,” who buy American agricultural land report their holdings and strengthens the penalties for those who evade the required filing. It also invests in research to better understand the impact foreign ownership of American farmland and agricultural production capacity has on our domestic food supply, family farms, and rural communities. Current reporting shows that foreign-owned agricultural acreage has increased in recent years. However, the data that’s been collected is incomplete or inaccurate. The new legislation will direct USDA to conduct an annual compliance audit to ensure accuracy and provide annual training to state and county-level USDA staff on identifying non-reporting of foreign-owned agricultural land. *********************************************************************************** CBO Director Responds to Complaints on Farm Bill Numbers House and Senate Agriculture Committee leaders recently sent a letter to the Congressional Budget Office complaining about the slow response to their requests for scores on farm bill provisions. CBO Director Phillip Swagel said in a letter that they have already responded to more than 1,000 requests, and they expect to respond to hundreds more in the weeks ahead. The Fencepost says the leaders’ letter strongly encouraged the Budget Committees in both Chambers of Congress to use all their available resources to reorganize the CBO staff to prioritize farm bill requests. They also encouraged the office to hire or contract additional staff or find qualified professionals outside the agency to help. However, Swagel says, “Securing additional personnel from outside the agency isn’t practical at this point as it would delay work on the current legislation. It would take too much time to bring them up to speed on CBO’s procedures.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Providing $250 Million to Ukraine Farmers U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Samantha Power says the U.S. will provide another $250 million in aid to Ukraine’s agricultural producers. Feedstuffs says the money will get distributed through AGRI-Ukraine, an initiative that began in 2022 to help support Ukraine’s agricultural exports and to combat global food security issues made worse by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Power says multiple groups are working together to keep Ukraine farming and producing commodities. USAID has already been helping Ukraine’s farmers store the grain they can’t sell. It’s also working with private sector partners to provide financing, seed, and fertilizer. Power says the additional investments should help Ukraine’s producers to plant new crops even if they can’t sell grain from their previous harvests. “These investments that the U.S. and partners are making will not only help Ukraine win the war but also help them to build a much more resilient future,” Power adds. *********************************************************************************** Students Hit Capitol Hill A select group of nine college students from around the nation completed the Ag Voices of the Future Program July 10-13 while in Washington, D.C. The program, sponsored by the American Soybean Association and Valent, U.S.A., gives students an inside look at how agricultural policies are made in the nation’s capital. The class was held in conjunction with ASA’s summer board meeting and other soy events. “It’s important that young people have an understanding of the significant policy issues that directly impact the productivity and economic well-being of our farms and the soybean industry,” says ASA President Daryl Cates. “ASA appreciates Valent’s support of this valuable program that helps to cultivate future voices for agriculture in D.C." The three-day program was busy with multiple activities and networking opportunities. Students heard from ASA and Valent’s industry and government affairs representatives and a House member about their current position and past career experience. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing in Urban Agriculture, Food, and Market Access USDA announced a series of investments that will increase market access and revenue streams for producers while strengthening the food system. The investments will also give consumers better access to locally-grown foods and healthier choices. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and Deputy Secretary Xochitl (So-CHEEL) Torres Small made the announcement in Philadelphia. “The USDA announced 17 new Urban Service Centers and ten new urban county committees, as well as approximately $10.7 million in investments in Farm to School and an expansion of the Healthy Food Financing Initiative,” Vilsack says. “It also includes $30 million in funding availability for the new Local and Regional Healthy Food Financing Partnerships Initiative.” The secretary also says these investments will allow families and farmers alike to benefit from healthier food produced close to home. “Families should have access to locally grown food wherever they live, and farmers should have profitable markets regardless of zip code,” says Torres Small.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 24, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Heat Domes, Missiles and Wheat Tour Lead Stories This Week 1. Missiles Fall, Temperatures Climb: The drivers in grain markets short-term are the oncoming heat (see below) and Vladimir Putin's ongoing onslaught of Ukraine grain ports. That puts pressure on overland movement of grain out of Ukraine through neighboring countries, and the storage backlog will eventually influence how much farmers there can plant. . 2. Weather Patterns Quiet, Hot: Recent rain systems, and the active weather pattern that spawned them, have improved soil moisture conditions in a lot of areas. But the patterns, they are a changing, says our Ag Meteorologist John Baranick. A high-pressure dome and less active patterns will bring heat and dryness. The critical question is did rains bring enough soil moisture reserves to help crops get through the coming heat, which could generally last through the end of July and into August? There is a lot of pollination, grain fill and pod set going on as things heat up. Baranick notes the predicted conditions are pushing the boundaries of current weather models; some have spit out temperature possibilities above 110 Fahrenheit in the western and central Corn Belt. It's unlikely temps will get that high in any sustained way, Baranick adds, but it will be unpleasant. Stay hydrated, take breaks out of the sun and heat, and pay special attention to livestock and those that can't take care of themselves 3. Spring Wheat Tour: We'll have daily coverage of the 2023 Hard Spring Wheat and Durum Tour. DTN Crops Editor Jason Jenkins will be on the tour, with his reports starting Tuesday evening. This year's tour, sponsored by the Wheat Quality Council, will cover North Dakota and Western Minnesota. It will not include South Dakota due to low wheat acres there. Final yield predictions will be out mid-day Thursday. 4. Preparing for 2023 DTN Digital Yield Tour: The sixth DTN Digital Yield Tour, powered by Gro Intelligence, kicks off Aug. 7. In the weeks ahead, DTN reporters and editors will be out gathering on-the-ground information on crop conditions as we prepare to learn where Gro's satellite-driven yield models put the 2023 crop. This year we'll also get additional dirty-boots data from our friends at Farmers Independent Research of Seed Technologies, or FIRST. 5. Economic News This Week: We'll cover the latest USDA Crop Progress reports, hitting Monday afternoon. Wednesday will see news on latest U.S. new homes sales out at 9 a.m. CDT, followed by the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. The latest Federal Reserve announcement is scheduled at 1 p.m., followed by a press conference with Fed Chairman Jerome Powell. Thursday sees USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. weekly jobless claims, durable goods orders for June and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due at 7:30 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's natural gas report follows at 9:30 a.m. Friday brings a collection of reports to help gauge inflation: At 7:30 a.m. we'll see the U.S. index of personal consumption expenditures for June, the report on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending for June and the Labor Department's employment cost index for the second quarter. The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment for July hits at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 24, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be paying close attention to the latest weather reports and any news from the Black Sea region. USDA's weekly inspections report is set for 10 a.m. CDT and will be followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A cluster of thunderstorms is moving down the Missouri Valley early Monday and some additional showers and thunderstorms are expected in the Midwest Monday as a ridge of heat over the West spreads eastward. Heat will be stressful this week, but some areas are going to see rain and potential severe weather.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 21, 2023 |

USDA Accepts Almost 2.7 Million Acres in CRP The USDA is accepting offers for nearly 2.7 million acres from agricultural producers and private landowners in this year’s Grassland Conservation Reserve Program signup. The program received a record-setting signup of 4.6 million acres in offers. The working lands program allows producers and landowners to continue grazing and haying practices while protecting grasslands and furthering the CRP’s impacts. “This year’s Grassland CRP signup demonstrates the continued popularity and success in voluntary, producer-led, working lands conservation programs,” says Zach Ducheneaux, Farm Service Agency Administrator. “Grassland CRP clearly demonstrates that conservation priorities and agricultural productivity can coexist, complement, and enhance one another.” USDA had to accept fewer acres and a lower percentage of offers than in 2022 because the program has reached its acreage cap. “With the low number of future expiring acres, getting closer to the statutory cap of 27 million acres would hinder the ability to conduct future signups,” Ducheneaux adds. *********************************************************************************** USB Sets Fiscal Year 2024 Budget The 77 people serving on the United Soybean Board approved $191.5 million for the 2024 fiscal year budget. The budget supports research, promotion, and education investment portfolios selected through USB’s Portfolio Development Process. These investments help drive demand for U.S. soy and return value to all U.S. soybean farmers. The total budget also includes execution, oversight, and program support. “I hope U.S. soybean farmers are proud of their checkoff as we pool our resources to improve our reliability and sustainability in delivering our crop to the global marketplace,” says Meagan Kaiser, USB Chair and Missouri farmer. “As we look to next year, we know that soy delivers solutions, and in many cases, it serves as a drop-in replacement to improve our carbon footprint across thousands of products.” She also says it’s important to make significant gains and drive return on investment back to farmers. “The future is bright,” she adds. *********************************************************************************** Animal Ag Alliance Releases Extremism Report The Animal Agriculture Alliance released reports detailing the interconnectedness of the animal rights movement and their tactics targeting animal agriculture. “No matter the animal rights extremist group or the tactics used, they all share the same goal of eliminating animal agriculture and taking meat, dairy, poultry, eggs, and seafood off grocery store shelves and family tables,” says Abby Kornegay, AAA manager of issues and engagement. Almost one-third of all animal rights extremist attacks documented in 2022 targeted farmers and food workers, putting them and the animals in danger. Some of their documented actions against animal ag include 95 vandalism incidents, 70 stolen animals, 60 criminal trespasses, ten arson cases, and nine harassment and intimidation incidents. “Extremists are getting ever bolder in their efforts against animal agriculture, and direct actions at the farm, processing facility, and retail store continue rising,” Kornegay adds. For information about proactive security measures, go to animalalliance.org. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Introduced to Improve Credit for Critical Rural Facilities The Investing in Rural America Act was introduced in the House of Representatives, and the Farm Credit Council reacted positively. “We thank those who introduced the legislation for their commitment to rural communities,” says FCC President and CEO Todd Van Hoose. “This legislation will spur the development of critical facilities in rural communities, such as hospitals, childcare centers, schools, and more.” He also says the bill will facilitate partnerships between Farm Credit, community banks, and other lenders to provide much-needed capital to build, renovate, and modernize rural community facilities. “Those kinds of facilities are critical to the viability of rural communities because they play key roles in improving the quality of life for rural families,” Van Hoose adds. “Yet, many communities lack these essential facilities, while many other facilities need modernization.” Minnesota Rep Michelle Fischbach says one way Congress can support rural communities is by eliminating unnecessary barriers to capital investment. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Cotton Ending Stocks Set to Increase The USDA cotton projections for August-July indicate that global cotton ending stocks will increase by 570,000 bales (0.6 percent) to 94.5 million bales. That’s the second-highest level since 2014-2015. As production exceeds mill use for a second year in a row, world cotton prices are forecast lower than the $1.01 per pound estimated for 2022-2023 and the recent high in 2021-2022 of almost $1.32 per pound. Although the world harvested area is projected to increase two percent, or 600,000 hectares, a projected decrease in the global yield reduces the production estimate year-over-year. Global cotton production is forecast to decrease by 1.1 million bales, or one percent, from 2022-2023 to 116.8 million bales in 2023-2024. The largest gains in the world are expected to come from Pakistan and India. World trade expectations (43.5 million bales) show a considerable increase from 2022-2023, rising with the projected rebound in 2023-2024 global cotton mill use. *********************************************************************************** MN Rep Wins NCGA President’s Award Minnesota Representative Angie Craig is the winner of the National Corn Growers Association’s 2023 President’s Award. She was honored during the organization’s annual Corn Congress summer meeting in Washington, D.C. Tom Haag (HAYG), NCGA President and a Minnesota corn grower, had high praise for the congresswoman. “Whether it’s ensuring that consumers have access to higher levels of ethanol or it’s working to advance corn grower priorities in the farm bill, Craig has been a tireless advocate for growers and is one of our biggest Congressional allies.” Craig, Minnesota’s Second District Representative, says, “My district is home to so many of the corn growers who get food on our tables and fuel in our vehicles. I’m honored to represent them.” Craig has championed many issues important to corn growers. Earlier this year, she joined a bipartisan group of House members in re-introducing a bill that would allow year-round access to E15.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 21, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's monthly cattle on-feed inventory and U.S. cattle inventory reports, both for July 1 are due out at 2 p.m. CDT, the only significant reports on Friday. Traders continue to keep close watch on the latest weather developments and happenings in Ukraine. Weather A cold front pressing south through the country will continue to produce areas of showers and thunderstorms, some possibly severe with heavy rain. Fairly comfortable temperatures remain north of the front with largely drier conditions. Some isolated showers may be possible farther north in the Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 20, 2023 |

USDA Partnership to Reduce Anticompetitive Barriers USDA launched a partnership with bipartisan attorneys general in 31 states and the District of Columbia to enhance competition and protect consumers in food and agricultural markets. Through the agreement, this partnership will assist the state attorneys general in tackling anticompetitive market structures in agriculture and related industries that are raising prices and limiting choices for consumers and producers. “Through these cooperative agreements, we can ensure a more robust and competitive agricultural sector,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “I’m happy to see that a bipartisan group of states is committed to joining USDA in better protecting the fair and competitive markets that are a critical cornerstone of the American economy.” Areas of focus for the Agricultural Competition Partnership include anti-competitive market structures and practices, as well as price gouging and other anti-consumer practices in food, retail, meat, and poultry processing. Others include a lack of choices for consumers and producers. *********************************************************************************** Methane Emissions Reduction for Beef Cattle Cargill recently partnered with TREES Consulting to develop a new Gold Standard-approved methodology giving beef producers a way to measure methane emissions reductions. The methodology uses feed supplements incorporated into beef cattle diets. The new methodology defines a set of parameters that beef producers can adopt to quantify reductions in methane emissions, a greenhouse gas derived from the digestion process in cattle as well as manure handling. It’s now available for beef producers to quantify, audit, and verify methane reductions, enabling them to register their GHG mitigation projects for Gold Standard Certification. Those verified emissions reductions can be traded in carbon markets, allowing credit purchasers to directly support the projects. “We are committed to finding ways to ensure that producers can get recognized and rewarded for their emissions reduction efforts,” says Margaret Kim, CEO of Gold Standard. For more information about the new methodology, go to Cargill’s “Feeding Intelligence” site. *********************************************************************************** Newhouse Launches ESA Working Group Washington Representative Dan Newhouse, the Congressional Western Caucus, and the House Committee on Natural Resources launched the Endangered Species Act Working Group. The new group will look into how the Endangered Species Act is being implemented by federal agencies, the practical impacts on the American people, how litigation is driving ESA decision-making, and how success is currently defined under the act. The group intends to publish a series of policy recommendations that reform the ESA to the benefit of the American people and species conservation. “It’s clear the ESA desperately needs reform,” Newhouse says. “Not just for the sake of our species, but for the people who are negatively impacted because of its land-use restrictions, impact on property values, and costly permitting requirements.” Hundreds of species are listed under the act, but only three percent have been delisted. “Clearly, something is not working,” says Natural Resources Chair Bruce Westerman of Arkansas. *********************************************************************************** NACD 2023 Summer Conservation Forum Held This Week in ND The National Association of Conservation Districts held the 2023 Summer Conservation Forum and Tours in Bismarck, North Dakota. This summer’s meeting brought together conservation leaders from across the country to discuss emerging natural resource concerns and innovative solutions. The meeting included a grassland conservation and grazing management panel, as well as remarks from Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief Terry Cosby and Farm Service Agency Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. North Dakota Senator John Hoeven spoke about the importance of locally-led conservation, partnerships, and an approach that isn’t one size fits all. “Make the approach fit farmers and ranchers,” he said. NACD President Kim LaFleur emphasized the importance of developing next-generation leaders at all levels and engaging new audiences and partners. The event also gave attendees the opportunity to see conservation in action, including a tour of the Black Leg Ranch. Several other conservation leaders addressed changing natural resource challenges in their regions. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for Southeast Asia Trade Mission USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an agribusiness trade mission to Malaysia and Singapore from October 30-November 3. The Foreign Ag Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters wanting to take part in the trade mission. “Malaysia and Singapore are important markets in our efforts to diversify prospects for U.S. food and agricultural exports in Southeast Asia,” Taylor says. “These markets provide both a source of stability for American exports and a tremendous opportunity to further expand U.S. trade in the region.” She also says consumer demand for American products in both countries is on the rise, making this agribusiness trade mission extremely timely. America’s agricultural and related product exports to Malaysia reached $1.13 billion in 2022. U.S. agricultural exports to Singapore grew 190 percent between 2012 and 2022, reaching a record $1.4 billion in 2022. For more information or to apply, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** National FFA Organization Names American Star Finalists The National FFA Organization has announced the 16 finalists for its 2023 top achievement awards. The awards include the American Star Farmer, American Star in Agribusiness, American Star in Agricultural Placement, and the American Star in Agriscience. The American Star Awards represent the best of 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, the 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 experience and report the results. Other requirements for receiving an 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 accomplishment. For more information about the American Star Awards, go to FFA.org/Stars.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 20, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report, U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor are all due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday. U.S. existing home sales and U.S. leading indicators, both for June are out at 9 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to pay close attention to the weather and latest events out of Ukraine. Weather A system moving through the eastern Midwest will continue to produce areas of showers and thunderstorms on Thursday, some of which may be severe with wind and hail. The front to the system will be an area to watch for significant severe storms Thursday afternoon and evening across Colorado and Kansas with a significant severe wind threat and heavy rain potential. To the south of the front, heat and humidity continue to be intense.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 19, 2023 |

Russia Attacks Ukraine Grain Port One day after Russia terminated the Black Sea Grain Initiative, the country attacked Ukraine grain facilities at the Odesa port. Russia terminated the deal following an attack by Ukraine on a bridge in the Crimean Peninsula. The port attacks were in retaliation to the Ukraine attack. The Black Sea grain export deal allowed for the safe transport of grain through the Black Sea by Ukraine. Reuters reports that any attempt to reopen Ukrainian grain shipments without Russia's participation would depend on insurance companies agreeing to provide coverage. Russia could return to the grain deal, but only if its demands are met for rules to be eased for its own exports of food and fertilizer. The country, for now, has not guaranteed the safety of ships in the Black Sea carrying products from Ukraine. Ukraine has invested in other ports, and could shift grain to those, but at a reduced shipping capacity. *********************************************************************************** Ad Hoc Government Payments Caused Farmers to Store More Grain University research shows ad hoc payments result in farmers holding more grain in storage. Published by the University of Illinois’ FarmdocDAILY, the research estimated the impact of the unprecedented surge in ad hoc farm payments from 2018 to 2020 on grain inventories held by farmers. Under the Market Facilitation Program, U.S. farmers received approximately $23 billion during the 2018-19 and 2019-20 marketing years. While USDA designed MFP to avoid distorting farmer planting and production decisions, these payments may still have affected farm decision-making, in particular, the decision to store production after harvest. However, the research estimates the impact of MFP payments on the market-level inventories was modest. Even in the case of soybeans in December 2018, the market and quarter where with the largest impact, U.S. soybean stocks were only 226 million bushels or six percent higher than they would have been in the absence of MFP payments. The conclusion: MFP did impact outcomes relevant to commodity price levels, though any potential market distortion was likely small. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Again a Top Beef Supplier to Japan The United States is again a top supplier of beef to Japan, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. U.S. market share collapsed in 2004 after a single case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy, commonly referred to as “mad cow disease,” was detected in a cow shipped from Canada to the United States. In response, Japan placed an embargo on all U.S. and Canadian beef products. In 2006, Japan began phasing out the ban on U.S. beef and fully lifted it in May 2019. Over this period, U.S. beef imports rebounded nearly to pre-ban levels, shipping 233,000 metric tons to Japan in 2021. The U.S. is now the second largest supplier of beef to Japan, behind Australia. Recently ratified trade agreements between Japan and these partner countries are expected to contribute to changes in Japan’s market for imported beef. Researchers estimate that by 2033, annual scheduled reductions in Japan’s import tariffs will increase imports of U.S. beef by 27 percent, or $413.8 million, from 2018 levels. *********************************************************************************** AEM Study Shows Environmental Benefits of Precision Agriculture A new study for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers shows the environmental benefits of precision agriculture. The study examined the impact of various technologies on the production of row crops, broad acre crops, roots and tubers, as well as forage. The data overwhelmingly shows that precision agriculture can have a positive environmental impact in all of these areas. Precision agriculture leverages technologies to enhance sustainability through more efficient use of land, water, fuel, fertilizer and pesticides. Essentially, farmers who use precision agriculture technologies use less to grow more, reducing both cost and environmental impact. In consultation with several environmental groups, AEM identified five areas with the most potential to impact the environment. Precision agriculture results in a four percent increase in crop production, seven percent increase in fertilizer placement efficiency, a nine percent reduction in pesticide use, a six percent reduction in fossil fuel use and a four percent reduction in water use. *********************************************************************************** USTR Announces Fiscal Year 2024 WTO Sugar Tariff-Rate Quota Allocations The U.S. Trade Representative’s office Tuesday announced the country-specific and first-come, first-served in-quota allocations of the tariff-rate quotas for imported sugar. The tariff-rate quotas, or TRQs, apply to raw sugar, refined and specialty sugar, and sugar-containing products, for fiscal year 2024, that begins October 1. TRQs allow countries to export specified quantities of a product to the United States at a relatively low tariff, but subject all imports of the product above a pre-determined threshold to a higher tariff. Earlier this month, the Department of Agriculture announced the establishment of the in-quota quantity for raw cane sugar for FY 2024. The in-quota quantity for the TRQ on raw cane sugar for FY 2024 is 1,117,195 metric tons raw value, which is the minimum amount to which the United States is committed under the World Trade Organization Agreement. USTR is allocating the raw cane sugar TRQ of 1,117,195 metric tons raw value, to a set of countries included in the announcement. *********************************************************************************** Hot Summer Means More Natural Gas Consumption The U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasts record-high natural gas consumption in the United States for electricity generation in July and August. The forecast comes as another hot summer increases demand for air conditioning. In its July Short-Term Energy Outlook, EIA expects about four percent more U.S. electricity generation from natural gas in July and August 2023 than in 2022. Natural gas will provide about 46 percent of U.S. electricity for those two months and provide 41 percent of U.S. electricity for the year, according to EIA's forecast. EIA also expects a six percent increase in electricity generation from renewables and a two percent increase in generation from nuclear energy. Also, EIA reduced its forecast for growth in U.S. renewable diesel production from previous forecasts. An EIA spokesperson says, "We still expect significant growth in renewable diesel production, but changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard slightly lower the growth rate in the short term.” EIA expects the United States to produce about 161,000 barrels per day of renewable diesel in 2023, which is a 66 percent increase from 2022.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 19, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts for June will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to pay close attention to the latest weather developments in a summer of volatile pricing for corn and soybeans. Events in Ukraine are also getting attention as summer fighting escalates. Weather A front across the Tennessee Valley and a system moving through the Upper Midwest are producing areas of showers and thunderstorms for Wednesday, under mainly mild temperatures for the Corn Belt. Some stronger storms may be possible from Nebraska into Minnesota and Wisconsin. Heat continues to be in place across the Southern Plains and across the Southeast.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 18, 2023 |

EPA Denies 26 RFS Small Refinery Exemptions The Environmental Protection Agency has denied 26 Small Refinery Exemption petitions for the Renewable Fuel Standard spanning compliance years 2016-2018 and 2021-2023. The action demonstrates the agency’s continued commitment to ending the backlog of pending SREs. The American Soybean Association welcomed the continued transparent and fair assessment of SREs through more stringent hardship and economic impact requirements. Historically, significant SRE approvals without clear and consistent metrics for evaluation created vast market uncertainty and undermined the intent of the RFS, creating a challenging environment for continued growth in the biomass-based diesel industry. EPA has worked in recent years to develop new parameters for petition approvals that have proven effective at strengthening the RFS. ASA is pleased with this progress and hopes EPA will continue to work with the biofuels industry to implement the RFS as intended. With the finalization of these 26 SRE petition denials, EPA has cut down SRE backlogs significantly, with only two outstanding petitions remaining from compliance year 2018. *********************************************************************************** CoBank: U.S. Economic Slowdown Likely Ahead The U.S. economy continues to defy gravity and remains strong despite lingering inflationary pressures, higher borrowing costs and a barrage of other headwinds. However, looming risks to the economy are increasing in number and size. CoBank's Knowledge Exchange says the full impact of monetary policy actions--raising interest rates, quantitative easing and contracting the money supply--have yet to be felt. Those policy actions, combined with depleted consumer savings, tighter commercial bank lending standards and the persistently inverted yield curve are likely to result in a mild recession by the fourth quarter of 2023. Ag retailers faced a more challenging environment in the second quarter as fertilizer prices continued to fall. Despite an overall slowdown in inflation, ag retailers continued to face rising costs, especially for property insurance. While food manufacturers generally indicate they are back to business as usual in the post-pandemic era, many consumers continue to harbor a crisis-management mentality regarding food costs. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Introduce Women in Agriculture Bill Lawmakers recently introduced the Women in Agriculture Act. The legislation would establish a research priority for agriculture machinery and equipment designed to be used by women, and create a funding set aside for childcare facilities in rural areas. The bill also creates a Women Farmers and Ranchers Liaison position at the Department of Agriculture. Although the number of women in the agriculture industry is growing, the majority of tools are designed and manufactured the height, strength and body type of a man. Representative Chellie Pingree, a Democrat from Maine, led the introduction of the bill. She says, “The Women in Agriculture Act provides resources specifically for women farmers and ranchers to level the playing field and work towards a fairer agriculture industry." In 2019, women accounted for 26 percent of the farm labor workforce, a 19 percent increase since 2009. However, farms operated by women earn 40 percent less income compared to male-dominated farms. *********************************************************************************** Deadline July 26 to Apply for Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Organic Dairy producers have a few days left to apply for Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance from the Department of Agriculture. The Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program assists certified organic dairy producers facing unique challenges in recent years, including higher costs attributed to the pandemic and drought conditions across the country. USDA's Farm Service Agency provides financial assistance for a producer's projected marketing costs in 2023 based on 2022 costs. The program provides a one-time cost-share payment, based on marketing costs, on pounds of organic milk marketed in the 2022 calendar year. The financial assistance provides immediate support to certified organic dairy operations during 2023, keeping organic dairy operations sustainable until the markets return to more normal conditions. SDA will invest $104 million in financial assistance to certified organic dairy producers. Organic dairy producers should apply by July 26, 2023, at their local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Consumers’ Food Spending Hit Record High in 2022 New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows consumer spending on food reached a record in 2022. Real, or inflation-adjusted, annual food spending in the United States increased steadily from 1997 to 2022, except in 2008 and 2009 during the Great Recession and in 2020 during the Coronavirus pandemic. Food spending includes food at home, described as food intended for off-premises consumption from retailers such as grocery stores, and food away from home, described as food purchased at outlets such as restaurants or cafeterias. Total food spending increased 70 percent from 1997 to 2022. During this period, food at home spending increased at a slower rate, 53 percent, than for food away from home at 89 percent. Total food spending increased on an annual basis by 7.2 percent in 2021 and 4.5 percent in 2022. Food away from home spending increases, 19 percent in 2021 and eight percent in 2022, drove overall increases in food spending. *********************************************************************************** MGP Ingredients to Close Industrial Alcohol Distillery MGP Ingredients last week announced the planned closure of its industrial alcohol distillery expected in January 2024. The facility in Atchison, Kansas, produces grain neutral spirits, industrial alcohol products and related co-products. The decision to close this distillery is consistent with the company’s plan to address profitability headwinds associated within the sector. MGP Ingredients will continue to operate and invest in its Ingredient Solutions business located in Atchison, Kansas, including the previously announced $16.7 million-dollar texturized protein facility scheduled to be completed by the end of the year. The company will also continue to operate and invest in its Lawrenceburg, Indiana, distillery operations. MGP President and CEO David Colo says, “The additional supply of grain neutral spirits and industrial alcohol that has entered the market during the past few years has had a meaningful and structural impact on the market.” The company also cited the increase in local corn basis costs that reduced profitability.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 18, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales in June is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook is due out at 2 p.m. Traders will keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts. Weather Remnants of a storm complex from western South Dakota Monday night will continue across eastern Nebraska and Missouri Tuesday morning. By Tuesday afternoon, storms will expand into the Tennessee Valley and Ohio Valley. More scattered storms will also form across the eastern Dakotas, Minnesota, and northern Iowa by Tuesday evening. The strongest storms are expected across Missouri, southern Illinois, eastern Kentucky and Tennessee, as well as eastern North Dakota. Damaging winds and isolated, large hail will be the main threats with thunderstorms Tuesday.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |

CoBank: U.S. economic slowdown likely ahead Full impact of monetary policy actions have yet to be felt. The U.S. economy continues to defy gravity and remains strong despite lingering inflationary pressures, higher borrowing costs and a barrage of other headwinds. Consumers continue to spend aggressively on services, businesses are still investing and the labor market remains incredibly strong. Secure jobs are the most important element in consumer spending and well-employed Americans have powered the economic recovery for three years. However, looming risks to the economy are increasing in number and size. According to a new quarterly report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, the full impact of monetary policy actions—raising interest rates, quantitative easing and contracting the money supply—have yet to be felt. Those policy actions, combined with depleted consumer savings, tighter commercial bank lending standards and the persistently inverted yield curve are likely to result in a mild recession by the fourth quarter of 2023. “There is still a lot of wind at the back of this economy, and we don’t believe a severe contraction is coming,” said Dan Kowalski, vice president of CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange. “But we do believe it is important to not misinterpret delayed impacts for minimal impacts. Monetary effects can be slow in developing, and history tells us that the economy can seem just fine right before a recession hits.” The labor market remains relatively tight, but the situation has improved significantly as female and non-native workers have stormed back into the work force. The labor force participation rate for women between the ages of 25-54 now stands at an all-time high, up more than 4% from the low in April 2020. Foreign-born employment has increased at roughly double the pace of native-born employment since April 2020. The successes in these two groups have been critical so far in the economic recovery. But looking forward, it raises the question of how many more workers are available to be coaxed in off the sidelines. Ultimately, the U.S. labor force challenges are far from over. Grains, farm supply & biofuels With the corn and soybean growing season in full swing, drought across the Central U.S. is driving heightened seasonal market volatility. Markets are balancing the quickly deteriorating crop conditions against the potential for El Nino to bring wetter conditions later in the growing season. Wheat harvest is advancing northward in the U.S. and is revealing high variability in crop quality. USDA expects the U.S. hard red winter wheat crop to be the smallest since 1957 on substantially higher abandonments and lower yields. Ag retailers faced a more challenging environment in the second quarter as fertilizer prices continued to fall. Prices were weighed down by reduced demand, as farmers took advantage of pre-payment programs last fall to purchase fertilizer in advance. Despite an overall slowdown in inflation, ag retailers continued to face rising costs, especially for property insurance. Grain and farm supply cooperatives paid about 50% more for property and casualty insurance coverage during the January and April 2023 renewal seasons. The ethanol complex delivered strong second quarter results with steady production and above-average profitability. Operating margins averaged 45 cents per gallon, nearly double the long-term average. While the finalized blending requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) were somewhat disappointing for ethanol, they were incrementally positive for biomass-based diesel. The new rules call for 2.82 billion gallons of biodiesel and renewable diesel in 2023 and 3.35 billion gallons in 2025. Animal protein & dairy As the summer grilling season kicked off, beef demand remained incredibly resilient despite elevated prices for consumers. Retail beef prices averaged $7.50 per pound in May, a record high for the period, and an increase of 2% year-over-year. Robust demand combined with tighter cattle supplies spurred market momentum for cattle. Fed cattle values reached record levels, above $180 per cwt. and feeder cattle shot above $240 per cwt. While consumers have yet to balk at higher beef prices, things could quickly change when seasonal support wanes. Excess hog supply and weak pork demand put hog prices in jeopardy this spring. After a steady start to the year, the CME lean hog index tumbled about $10/cwt., to $72 from mid-March to late April. However, more favorable market conditions across the animal protein segment drove lean hog values up 30% through May and June. While still down about $15 year-over-year, the pork cutout landed in the upper $90s, gaining about $20 per cwt. through the quarter. Domestic chicken consumption was up about 4% year-over-year through June 1, which has helped chip away at elevated cold storage holdings. Wholesale broiler meat prices have largely rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, following significant declines in late 2022 and early 2023. Feed costs have come down about 10% from last year but remain well above their historic averages. For broiler integrators, increased feed costs coupled with higher operational expenses have crimped profitability. U.S. milk producers continue to struggle in the current price environment. The national all-in mailbox milk price has dropped below the $20/cwt. mark after averaging $25.34/cwt. in 2022. While several factors are to blame for this year’s milk price decline, the sharp drop in American/cheddar-style cheese prices is the most significant. Prices for the category have dropped by one-third since the beginning of the year. Milk and feed futures suggest producer profitability should improve considerably by October when Class III milk prices are anticipated to increase by about $3.00/cwt. Cotton, rice & specialty crops U.S. cotton production is rebounding from last year’s crop that was devastated by extreme drought across the southwest. Recent rainfall in top-producing Texas is expected to reduce abandonment following three years of severe drought. The U.S. cotton crop is now estimated at 16.5 million bales, up 14% from last year. Price inflation for clothing and apparel in the U.S. continues to ease with the moderation of cotton prices, which may work to draw in new consumer demand. U.S. rice production is expected to recover from last year’s small crop, although concerns over dryness and worsening conditions in the mid-South have led to increased volatility of rough rice prices. With improved water availability this year, California medium grain rice production is also expected to rebound with planted acreage at 465,000 acres. That’s a substantial increase from last year’s planted acreage of 220,000 acres that were restricted by historic drought conditions. Sugar prices remain historically high as markets ration tight global supplies. USDA currently calls for a rebound in world sugar production for 2023-2024, but concerns are growing that El Nino will result in smaller harvests in 2023-2024. In the U.S., there is no relief in sight for high prices as wet weather delayed planting across northern states this spring, which resulted in a smaller U.S. sugarbeet crop. The tight farm labor market continues to be especially challenging for U.S. specialty crop producers. The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco reported that weekly median wages for farm workers swelled to a record high $915 in April, a 24% increase from the year earlier. In June, the House Agriculture Committee created a bipartisan working group, tasked with evaluating the H-2A program and finding solutions for the labor supply challenges facing farmers. Food & beverage While food manufacturers generally indicate they are back to business as usual in the post-pandemic era, many consumers continue to harbor a crisis-management mentality when it comes to food costs. Rising food prices are challenging both at-home and away-from-home food spending. The Consumer Price Index for all food in May was 6.7% higher than May 2022, while food away-from-home prices were up 8.3%. To offset higher prices, consumers are continuing behaviors initially seen during the pandemic, namely eating more meals at home. Foot traffic in restaurants remains well below pre-pandemic levels.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |

High Production Costs Won’t Ease Next Year USDA’s first cost of production forecast for major field crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, rice, and others shows that input costs are expected to remain elevated into the next growing season. The costs will likely be at the third-highest level of all time and only slightly lower than the record high in 2022. While some input costs like fertilizer and chemicals are expected to decline from 2023 to 2024, other expenses like seed costs, labor, machinery and equipment, taxes, and insurance are expected to rise. Since 2020, the total costs paid by farmers to raise crops and care for livestock have increased by more than $100 billion, or 28 percent, to an all-time high of $460 billion this year. Based on USDA’s current input cost projections, trend yields, and commodity price trends, several major field crops may experience marketing year average prices below breakeven levels this year and possibly into 2024. *********************************************************************************** White House Hosts Event on Competition in the Farm Bill The USDA and White House co-hosted a meeting to discuss competition priorities in the farm bill. National Farmers Union President Rob Larew took part, saying that the U.S. needs a farm bill that prioritizes fair and competitive markets. “Today’s event shows the need for this issue to be addressed in the 2023 Farm Bill,” Larew says. “Our Fairness for Farmers Campaign has sounded the alarm on monopolies, and this meeting is a sign our concerns are being heard by our decision-makers.” The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association also took part in the event. USCA Vice President Lia Biondo says the discussion marked progress toward a fairer, more competitive marketplace. “A Texas A & M study shows that without the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act, negotiated trade in Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico is expected to fall to zero by 2026,” she says. “Zero percent negotiated trade is a wholly vertically-consolidated industry.” *********************************************************************************** Minnesota Company Launches Relief Effort for Ukrainian Farmers The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization says Ukraine’s farmers have suffered $3.9 billion in losses since Russia invaded in February 2022. A U.N. study says cultivated area has decreased nine percent since last year, and 12 percent of Ukraine’s farms report unexploded ordinances in their fields. EarthDaily Agro of Maple Grove, Minnesota, launched ‘Farmerhood,’ a fund-raising initiative to help farmers impacted by war. A Twin Cities TV station says the group’s fundraising goal is $1 million, enough to help 200 farmers. Dave Gebhart of EarthDaily says they’ve reached about $300,000 thanks to corporate sponsors. The group has received 300 requests for help from farmers in Ukraine. The farmers must have 1,200 acres or less to be eligible for assistance. The group says there is a thorough audit of the farmer’s property and location to make sure they can help those who suffer the most. For information, go to Farmerhood.org. *********************************************************************************** Cattle Producers Praise Congressional Support of Beef Checkoff Cattle industry leaders praised the introduction of a bipartisan congressional resolution recognizing the importance of commodity checkoff programs, including the Beef Checkoff. As a cattle producer who invests in the checkoff, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Todd Wilkinson says he knows how important the program is to the industry’s success. “The Beef Checkoff was created by cattle producers and provides immense benefits to those producers,” he says. “I’m grateful for the resolution and the fact that lawmakers are standing with cattle producers to recognize the importance of checkoff programs.” He’s also hopeful that more members of Congress will listen to farmers and ranchers and reject animal rights activist-led proposals like the OFF Act that undermine producer control of checkoffs. “Checkoff-funded programs have led to the development of new cuts of beef and strengthened consumer trust in the cattle industry’s animal welfare and sustainability,” says NCBA Policy Division Chair Gene Copenhaver. ‘*********************************************************************************** Lamb Industry Sustainability Survey Needs Producer Input The American Lamb Board is looking for help from U.S. lamb producers and feeders regarding their environmental stewardship and other sustainability practices. The goal is to better inform consumers and direct checkoff programs about those practices. The survey runs until Monday, August 14. “It’s so important to have solid data that actually represents what our diverse American Lamb industry does, the progress we’ve made, and that helps us continually improve productivity, animal care, and sustainability,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair from New York. “The U.S. lamb industry is often misrepresented, so we need solid, new data to correctly tell our story.” The ALB says the sustainability survey will help them communicate with retailers, chefs, and consumers. Also, the ALB will use the information to guide its industry education and research efforts so that checkoff funds are invested where they will make the most difference. For more information, go to bit.ly/USLambSurvey. *********************************************************************************** USDA Requests Input on GHG Measurement Plans USDA is requesting public input on the draft “Federal Strategy to Advance Greenhouse Gas Measurement and Monitoring for the Agriculture and Forestry Sectors.” The draft Federal Strategy outlines a framework for enhancing greenhouse gas measurement, monitoring, reporting, and verification within the agricultural and forestry sectors, with a special focus on the administration’s Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Initiative. It also aligns with ongoing work across the federal government to quantify carbon sequestration and carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide emissions. USDA recently announced a $300 million investment to advance priorities set by the strategy. The Notice in the Federal Register seeks information on four topics: general comments or questions about the draft Federal Strategy; animal agriculture; croplands; and data & data sharing. Comments are invited from a variety of stakeholders, including users and providers of agriculture and forestry data, methods, and analyses, state and local agencies, private sector researchers, and non-governmental organizations.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Emergency Haying, WASDE Fallout Among Coming Stories OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 9. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. OMAHA (DTN)-- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 16. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Market Maneuvers: Last week's WASDE kicked off all kinds of market reactions. The "will he or won't he" on Russian President Putin extending the Black Sea export agreement is also playing with the trade. Watch for the latest in our Markets sections. 2. Tar Spot Spread: Several areas of Iowa, Indiana, Missouri and surrounding states are seeing outbreaks of tar spot in corn. We're continuing to track the spread of the disease, which can cut yields by as much as 50 bushels per acre. For our latest information on the disease, see Crop Editor Jason Jenkin's story here: 3. Some hay relief: USDA last week approved haying and grazing on some CRP acres due to drought. We're continuing to watch the tight forage and hay situation and will keep you informed on what that means to cattle and dairy. 4. Be safe in that hay field: In addition to CRP release, many states have opened roadside areas to haying by local farmers. It's a helpful resource, but it also puts hay crews out among speeding vehicles and potentially inattentive drivers. Be safe, use cones, flags or flashers (or all the above) in haying areas and have a guide vehicle on hand when moving equipment and hay bales in and around public roadways. 5. Learning top cuts: The "field to fork" movement, and concern over meat packer concentration, have driven a number of colleges and universities to either start or expand meat cutting education. We'll be looking into where that's happening and if it's keeping up with local slaughter demand. Watch for those stories coming soon.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 17, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check over the latest weather forecasts and news happenings. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT and will be followed later Monday morning by soybean crush estimates for June from the National Oilseeds Processors Association. USDA's Crop Progress report is set for 3 p.m. Weather Daytime thunderstorms will develop across the Ohio Valley and Mid-Mississippi Valley Monday afternoon. Later Monday evening and into Monday night, more storms will develop across South Dakota and Nebraska. Some storms could become strong to severe across Kentucky, southern Indiana, and far southern Illinois Monday afternoon while the main threat for severe storms across the Plains Monday night will be in southwest South Dakota into northeast Nebraska.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 14, 2023 |

Farm Lending Slows as Interest Rates Climb Farm lending activity at commercial banks in the Kansas City Fed’s district slowed through the first half of 2023 as interest rates continued pushing higher. The volume of non-real estate farm loans at commercial banks declined for the second-consecutive quarter. The survey of commercial banks shows the volume of non-real estate loans was 15 percent below last year, and the drop was attributed to a lower average size of loans and a smaller number of loans compared with 2022. The average interest rates on agricultural loans increased for the sixth-consecutive quarter. The U.S. farm economy outlook has moderated in recent months as risks of more limited profit opportunities have grown alongside softening in commodity markets and elevated production expenses. Broad strength in farm finances has continued to support historically-strong loan performance, but farm profitability will remain important for agricultural credit conditions and lending demand in the coming months. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Brazil’s Higher Corn Exports Not a Trend Brazil is positioned to surpass the U.S. in corn exports this year. However, the National Corn Growers Association says the data shows the trend leading to this development won’t continue. The South American country faces several challenges when it comes to agriculture and trade. “U.S. exports have been hindered by droughts that have affected key areas of the Corn Belt,” says NCGA Lead Economist Krista Swanson. “But the U.S. has several relative advantages in the global corn market that can be harnessed to support our $90 billion corn industry.” The U.S. is bolstered by superior infrastructure and sustainable farming practices. While there is additional pasture area available to expand Brazil’s cropland, efforts are also underway to rein in deforestation of valuable rainforest critical to global sustainability. NCGA is calling on Congress to double farm bill funding for important trade programs like the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program. *********************************************************************************** U.N. says 122 Million More People Facing Hunger Since 2019 Over 122 million more people around the world are facing hunger since 2019 due to COVID-19 and repeated weather shocks and conflicts like the war in Ukraine. That’s according to the latest “State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World” report published this week by the United Nations. Several agencies within the U.N. says if the trends remain as they are, the Sustainable Development Goal of ending hunger by 2030 won’t be reached. The latest report shows that between 691 and 783 million people faced hunger in 2022. While the numbers have stalled between 2021 and 2022, there are many places in the world facing increasing hunger. Hunger was still rising in western Asia, the Caribbean, and throughout all the subregions of Africa in 2022. Africa remains the hardest-hit region in the world with one in five people facing hunger on the continent, more than twice the global average. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investments in Lowering Energy Costs for Rural America The USDA’s Rural Business-Cooperative Service is making $21 million in technical assistance grants available through the Rural Energy for America Program. The funds will help agricultural producers and rural small businesses access federal funds for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements. “This will make sure rural Americans get access to the grants to make energy more affordable, create new economic opportunity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says Rural Business-Cooperative Service Administrator Dr. Karama (kah-RA-mah) Neal. Grant recipients can include state, tribal, or local governments, colleges and universities, electric cooperatives and utility companies, and for-profit and non-profit organizations. “The technical assistance grants will provide hands-on support to farmers, ranchers, and rural small business owners seeking federal funds for renewable energy systems like wind and solar,” she says. “This will help small businesses and producers lower energy costs and strengthen their operations.” Interested applicants should contact their USDA Rural Development state Office for information. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Lower the Cost of Biofuel-Blending Compliance A bipartisan group of lawmakers wants to lower the cost of complying with biofuel-blending mandates. Reuters says legislation was introduced that would direct the White House to let oil refiners purchase compliance credits (RINs) for biofuel blending laws at a lower cost than they’d pay on the open market. The group behind the bill says it would help struggling refineries stay afloat during a time of upheaval in the energy markets across the globe. Refiners have said for years that the costs of complying with the Renewable Fuel Standard mandates is too high. However, biofuel proponents like ethanol producers and corn farmers say the RFS increases the marketplace for their products. A news release says under the proposal, refiners could buy those biofuel credits at a fixed price only if they aren’t able to purchase them at cost-effective levels on the open market. The bill’s introduction caused RIN prices to drop. *********************************************************************************** CHS Reports Third Quarter Earnings Agribusiness cooperative CHS Inc. released the results for its third quarter that ended on May 31. The company reported a quarterly net income of $547.5 million. That’s compared to a record third-quarter net income of $576.6 million in fiscal year 2022. For the first nine months of fiscal year 2023, the company reported a net income of $1.6 billion and revenues of $36.1 billion. During the same period in 2022, the company reported net income of $1.2 billion and revenues of $34.4 billion. Third-quarter highlights include the energy segment delivering strong earnings, reflecting sustained favorable market conditions in their refined fuels business. Another highlight is improved soybean and canola crush margins due to strong meal and oil demand resulting in higher earnings in the company’s oilseed processing business. “Entering the end of our fiscal year, opportunities remain for profitability and growth in the agriculture industry,” says CHS President Jay Debertin.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 14, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets An index of U.S. consumer sentiment is set for 9 a.m. Friday and this is also the last trading day for July grain futures. Traders continue to keep close track of changes in weather and watch for an occasional export sale announcement. Weather A thunderstorm complex currently extends across western Arkansas while another cluster of storms is moving out of the Texas Panhandle. Farther north, a line of storms is moving through southern Wisconsin into northern Illinois while another complex of storms extends across southern South Dakota and northern Nebraska. The storms across northern Nebraska may try to expand and become stronger across eastern Nebraska early Friday afternoon and eventually extend into eastern Kansas, southern Iowa, and northern Missouri late Friday afternoon into the evening. Strong to severe storms will be possible across southern Kansas and northern Oklahoma, with damaging wind gusts and large hail being the main threats.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 13, 2023 |

U.S. consumers less willing to pay for beef, pork in June U.S. consumers have lowered their willingness-to-pay for six evaluated retail products, including ribeye steak, ground beef, pork chops and bacon, in June compared to May, according to the latest Meat Demand Monitor. WTP also decreased for all evaluated food service meals last month. Retail and food service demand in June 2023 was also lower than the year prior for all examined beef and pork offerings. The combined beef and pork projected market shares for June are 32% and 21%, respectively at the grocery store, and 39% and 13% at the restaurant. "I think base willingness-to-pay is declining, consistent with the general demand statement around June 2023 having lower domestic meat demand than June 2022," says Glynn Tonsor, professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University. "Per the extended chart above, this aligns with higher rates of no-protein, particularly among those indicating their finances have stagnated or declined from last year." Launched in February 2020, the MDM project is funded in-part by Beef Checkoff and Pork Checkoff and tracks U.S. consumer preferences, views and demand for meat with separate analysis for retail and food service channels. The monthly survey is conducted online with more than 2,000 respondents reflecting the national population. Taste, freshness, price and safety remain most important when purchasing protein, however freshness increased most since May, with environmental impact declining. Consumers are also eating lunch and dinner at home more often since last month's report. The survey noted 54% of respondents dined in for lunch and 69% for dinner in June, compared to May's 48% for lunch and 65% for dinner. In June, 14%, 21% and 33% had beef their prior day for breakfast, lunch and dinner, while pork was included in 18%, 12% and 18% of these meals. The protein source for at-home meals was predominantly grocery stores. Meals consumed away-from-home vary in frequency, however quick service is the most popular for breakfast and lunch meals, casual dining for dinner. Consistent with a special report shared in late May on the role of financial sentiment in meat consumption and demand, in June a small minority (16%) indicated their household finances have improved over the past year. The survey noted 47% of respondents indicated their finances are the same while 36% said their finances are worse. Inclusion of beef and pork in prior day meals is much higher for those reporting improved household finances reaffirming the role of macroeconomic conditions in domestic beef and pork demand. Tonsor says the trend of those 16% reporting household finances that are better than last year including meat protein in prior day meals at higher rates is not unique to beef and pork. This holds true for chicken and fish/seafood as well. "Those indicating their household financed are the same (47%) or worse (36%) than last year report much higher cases of other (something besides beef, pork, chicken and fish/seafood) or no protein in prior day meals," Tonsor says.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 13, 2023 |

USDA Releases July WASDE Report The Department of Agriculture Wednesday Issued the latest Monthly World Agricultural Supply and Demand report. This month’s corn outlook is for fractionally higher supplies and ending stocks. Corn production is forecast up 55 million bushels as greater planted and harvested area from the June 30 Acreage report is partially offset by a four-bushel reduction in yield to 177.5 bushels per acre. The season-average farm price is unchanged at $4.80 per bushel. Oilseed production is projected at 127.6 million tons, down 5.6 million from last month. Harvested area, forecast at 83.5 million acres in the June 30 Acreage report, is down four million from last month. The season-average soybean price is forecast at $12.40 per bushel, up $0.30 from last month. Changes this month to the wheat outlook increase supplies and domestic use, leave exports unchanged, and increase ending stocks. The projected season-average farm price is forecast at $7.50 per bushel, down $0.20 from last month. *********************************************************************************** Monthly Food Prices Unchanged in Consumer Price Index The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.2 percent in June, after increasing 0.1 percent in May, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The index for food at home was unchanged over the month, while the index for food away from home rose 0.4 percent in June. The index for fruits and vegetables increased 0.8 percent in June, following a 1.3 percent increase in May. The cereals and bakery products index rose 0.1 percent over the month, while the index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs decreased 0.4 percent in June. The other food at home index decreased 0.2 percent in June after increasing 0.4 percent the previous month. The index for dairy and related products fell 0.3 percent over the month, and the index for nonalcoholic beverages declined 0.1 percent in June. The food at home index rose 4.7 percent over the last 12 months, while the index for food away from home rose 7.7 percent. *********************************************************************************** AEM Releases June 2023 Equipment Sales Numbers Total farm tractor unit sales in the U.S. turned positive for the first time in 2023, led by continued strength in large tractors and combines. The Association of Equipment Manufactures reported Wednesday gains in the U.S. market were led by 100-plus horsepower two-wheel-drive units, up 25.4 percent, closely followed by four-wheel-drive units, up 21.9 percent. However, a change from the previous month is a small gain in the sub-40 horsepower two-wheel-drive segment, up 0.2 percent, that took overall sales positive since they represent more than 66 percent of total unit sales volume for the month. U.S. combines also marked another large gain of 9.8 percent. At the mid-year mark, year-to-date unit sales of farm tractors are down 9.7 percent despite a gain of 45.5 percent in the four-wheel-drive segment over that same period, and combines are up 51.5 percent. Total farm tractor unit sales year-to-date in Canada are down 14.4 percent, while combines are up 81.8 percent. *********************************************************************************** Farm, Forestry, Environmental and Hunger Advocates Unite Behind 2023 Farm Bill Twenty groups representing agricultural, environmental, forestry, wildlife, nutrition and hunger advocates have launched the “Farm Bill for America’s Families: Sustaining Our Future” campaign. The effort urges lawmakers to pass the 2023 farm bill this year. Farm Bill for America’s Families brings together stakeholders who support the farm bill and recognize its impact on all Americans. The campaign seeks to engage consumers, leaders and lawmakers alike on the importance of the farm bill and highlights five core objectives: food security, job creation, conservation, risk management and addressing hunger. The groups say the farm bill’s impact extends beyond the farm by protecting our nation’s food supply – providing millions of jobs, ensuring access to nutrition for families facing hunger; protecting farms from risks like weather disasters; advancing conservation efforts; and spurring innovation through agricultural research. Other organizations that share the campaign’s mission are invited to join at FarmBillforAmericasFamilies.com/join. *********************************************************************************** Baldwin, Blackburn Introduce Bill to Support American Dairy Businesses Lawmakers just introduced the Dairy Business Innovation Act of 2023, bipartisan legislation that will reauthorize and strengthen the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives. Senators Tammy Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, and Marsha Blackburn, a Tennessee Republican, introduced the bill Wednesday. Baldwin created the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives through the Dairy Business Innovation Act in 2018, which passed as part of the 2018 Farm Bill. Baldwin says, "expanding this program will give more small- and medium-sized dairy businesses the tools and opportunity to reach new markets." The Initiatives provide resources to serve prospective and established businesses that produce a product made from milk from a dairy animal, including dairy farms with their own production facilities and dairy processors with cheese, ice cream, and bottling facilities. Since the program was established in 2019, Initiatives have supported over $150 million in awards through regional centers across the country. FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative, along with other members of the Midwest Dairy Coalition, endorsed the legislation. *********************************************************************************** Land Sales Slowing, Prices Remain High The agriculture real estate market entered a period of de-escalation beginning in the fourth quarter of 2022. The market experienced a reduction in both sales volume and value growth since that time, as interest rates increased, and inflation pressures became more apparent, according to Farmers National Company. That trend has continued into the first half of 2023 with fewer properties being offered for sale and market values that are dramatically off the pace seen in the first half of 2022. Value growth is still positive across the Midwest, but increases are now in the single digits instead of the double digits seen in 2021 and 2022. Farm operators remain the largest group of buyers through Farmers National Company, accounting for nearly 80 percent of all land sale transactions. The sales volume at Farmers National Company through the first half of 2023 continues to exceed the five-year average but is slightly off the "exceptional" pace set in 2021 and 2022.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 13, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, a report on producer prices and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders will keep close watch over the latest weather developments. Weather Remnants of a storm complex are exiting southern Missouri and southern Illinois Thursday morning. By Thursday afternoon and through the evening, scattered showers and storms will develop across the Northern and Central Plains as well as the Ohio Valley. Some of the strongest storms are expected across western Nebraska, western Kansas, the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles, and southern Ohio. Damaging wind gusts and large hail will be the main threats with storms that develop Thursday, but an isolated tornado or two also cannot be ruled out.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 12, 2023 |

Senate Confirms Torres Small as Deputy Agriculture Secretary The Senate Tuesday confirmed (SO’chill) Xochitl Torres Small as Deputy Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, welcomed by agriculture groups and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. In a statement following the vote, Vilsack says, "I have witnessed her lead with energy, authenticity and personal investment that I know will leave an impact on USDA for years to come." Since October 2021, Torres Small has served as Under Secretary for Rural Development at USDA. Effective July 14, Rural Development Chief Operating Officer Roger Glendenning will serve as Acting Under Secretary. Before joining USDA, Torres Small was a United States Representative for the fifth largest district in the country. As a Member of Congress, she served as a member of the House Agriculture Committee, the House Armed Services Committee, and chairwoman of the Oversight, Management, and Accountability Subcommittee of the House Homeland Security Committee. She was the first woman and first person of color to represent New Mexico's second congressional district. *********************************************************************************** USDA Spending Accountability Act Introduced A group of farm-state Senators Tuesday introduced the USDA Spending Accountability Act. The bill was introduced by Republican Senators Chuck Grassley of Iowa, Roger Marshall of Kansas and Mike Braun of Indiana. The legislation would limit the disbursal of funds through the USDA’s financing institution, known as the Commodity Credit Cooperation, to be permitted only when authorized by Congress. The Secretary of Agriculture has broad discretionary authority in spending excess CCC funds. This includes reimbursing farmers for losses due to trade disputes and funding climate grants, often to multinational corporations. Recent instances of discretionary spending abuse have prompted bipartisan concern, as these programs are enacted without input from Congress and allow USDA to act as authorizer and appropriator. By removing this discretionary authority, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that the USDA Spending Accountability Act would save $8 billion over ten years. The substantial savings created by this bill would assist Congress in its goal to find savings in the Farm Bill. *********************************************************************************** National 4-H Council Appoints New President And CEO The National 4-H Council Tuesday announced the departure of Jennifer Sirangelo, the current President and CEO. Sirangelo will depart on August 18, 2023, when she will transition leadership of the organization to an experienced National 4-H Council executive and 4-H alumna, Jill Bramble. After an 18-month, externally-led executive succession process, the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees unanimously supported the appointment of Bramble, current Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer, as its new President and CEO. She has more than 18 years of successful leadership experience at the organization and a deep commitment to National 4-H Council's mission, values, and goals. Sirangelo has been an executive leader at National 4-H Council for 17 years, including nearly ten years as President and CEO. As the new President and CEO of National 4-H Council, Bramble brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the organization's mission, as she is a fourth-generation 4-H alumna. *********************************************************************************** Gavins Point Releases Increased After System Storage Check Above-average rainfall and fast-melting snow led to above-average runoff in the upper Missouri River Basin in June. Runoff above Sioux City, Iowa, was 6.7 million acre-feet, 122 percent of average. The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa is 29.2-million-acre feet, 114 percent of average, and about 2.4 million acre-feet higher than last month's forecast. Precipitation was normal to much-above-normal for June in much of Montana, southern and east-central North Dakota, and western South Dakota. Below-normal precipitation occurred in eastern South Dakota and into the lower Basin. Based on the July 1 System storage, flow support for navigation increased from minimum service to 1,500 cfs below full-service level. Per the guidelines in the Master Manual, this will also result in a full navigation flow support season ending December 1 at the mouth of the Missouri River. Gavins Point releases were increased to 29,000 cubic feet per second in early July to account for the increase in navigation flow support. *********************************************************************************** FMC Decreases 2023 Outlook FMC Corporation Tuesday updated its expectations on the second quarter and full-year 2023 outlook. Revenue in the second quarter is now expected to be between $1.00 billion and $1.03 billion. The revised guidance is driven by substantially lower-than-expected volumes due to an abrupt and significant reduction in inventory by channel partners, which only became evident towards the end of May and continued through the remainder of the quarter. Based on current channel dynamics, the company is revising its full-year financial outlook, with revenue now expected to be $5.20 billion to $5.40 billion. FMC President and CEO Mark Douglas says, "Towards the end of May, we experienced unforeseen and unprecedented volume declines in three out of our four operating regions, as our channel partners rapidly reduced inventory levels." FMC is a global agricultural sciences company with approximately 6,600 employees at more than 100 sites worldwide. *********************************************************************************** Wholesale Egg Prices Tumble as Egg Supplies Recover Wholesale egg prices reached record highs in 2022 after avian flu resulted in significant reductions in egg-laying flocks, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Avian flu is a disease that spreads rapidly in birds and poultry and is often lethal. Cumulative losses attributable to the disease amounted to more than 43 million egg-laying hens. At the height of the disease, in the last weeks of December 2022, weekly egg inventories were 29 percent lower than at the beginning of the year, and prices reached a high of $5.37 per dozen. With no new outbreaks reported in 2023, the size of the egg-laying flock has gradually increased since late 2022. In turn, wholesale prices have fallen sharply, reaching $0.89 per dozen in the first week of May 2023. As of the week ending June 30, 2023, egg inventories were about 24 percent higher than the lowest 2022 values. During the same week, the average price was $1.23 per dozen, about 77 percent lower than the highest average weekly price in 2022.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 12, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Department of Labor's consumer price index for June is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. USDA's WASDE report and the Crop Production report from NASS are both out at 11 a.m., followed by DTN's report webinar at 12:30 p.m. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will be released at 1 p.m. Weather Scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue to develop across southern and Eastern areas of the Corn Belt Wednesday, with some of the strongest storms expected across southern Iowa, eastern Kansas, western Indiana, and most of Illinois and Missouri. A thunderstorm complex may form across Missouri Wednesday evening and lead to a threat of strong to severe wind gusts up to 75 mph.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 11, 2023 |

USMEF Releases May Export Data Led by another outstanding month in Mexico and robust demand for variety meat, exports of U.S. pork continued to gain momentum in May, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. While well below the record-large volume and value posted in May 2022, beef exports improved from April and were the second largest, behind March 2023. May pork exports reached 261,361 metric tons, up 16 percent from a year ago, the ninth largest on record and the largest since May 2021. Export value climbed 12 percent to $731.1 million, also the highest since May 2021 and the seventh highest on record. Pork variety meat exports were particularly outstanding in May, setting a value record of $127 million. Beef exports totaled 116,159 metric tons, down 14 percent from the May 2022 record but up four percent from the previous month. Export value was $874.7 million, down 19 percent year-over-year but two percent above April. *********************************************************************************** Canned, Frozen Corn Industry Struggling For those whose primary experience with corn is the butter-drenched cob variety, it might come as a surprise that other forms of sweet corn are in trouble. A new University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign analysis shows sweet corn production for frozen and canned products has been steadily shrinking in the U.S. over the past 27 years, particularly in rainfed portions of the Midwest. Study author Marty Williams says, "We saw a decline in acreage throughout production areas in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest, the regions where most processing sweet corn production is happening." Although the analysis was designed to illustrate long-term trends, not causes, the study found a strong relationship between extreme temperatures and sweet corn yield loss, implicating climate change. The dataset can't predict where the industry will go next, but Williams sees potential regional shifts in production areas, such as moving into locations with more irrigation infrastructure. *********************************************************************************** USDA Opens Financial Assistance for Borrowers Who Have Faced Discrimination The Department of Agriculture recently opened the financial assistance application process for eligible farmers who experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending programs prior to January 2021. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "The opening of the application process is an important step in delivering on our commitment of providing financial assistance to those who faced discrimination in USDA farm lending." The program website, 22007apply.gov, is now open. The website includes an English- and Spanish-language application that applicants can download or submit via an e-filing portal, information on how to obtain technical assistance in-person or virtually, and additional resources and details about the program. Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination by USDA in its farm loan programs prior to January 1, 2021, and/or are currently debtors with assigned or assumed USDA farm loan debt that was the subject of USDA discrimination that occurred prior to January 1, 2021, are eligible for this program. *********************************************************************************** Food-at-home Spending Varies by Race and Ethnicity U.S. households shifted away from buying foods at restaurants and other food service venues to food-at-home outlets such as grocery stores and other retail establishments in 2020. The largest shifts came from a category designated by USDA’s Economic Research Service as "all other FAH," which includes prepared meals and salads, desserts, and foods not elsewhere classified such as soups, savory snacks, candy, sweeteners, margarine, and butter. "All other FAH" was by far the largest category before 2020, and its share of the household food budget increased by 2.6 percentage points in 2020 compared with the period from 2016 to 2019. However, this increase was unevenly distributed across racial and ethnic populations and subcategories. All U.S. racial and ethnic subpopulations except Hispanic households increased their total food budget share for “all other FAH” during this period. Black households increased their budget shares for “all other FAH” the most, followed by Asian households. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Program Unveils Curriculum for Grades Kindergarten through 12th The United Sorghum Checkoff Program recently launched its first Farm-to-School Curriculum. The curriculum is an agricultural education initiative that aims to integrate the science and production of sorghum, in addition to its nutritional value, into classrooms across the United States. The curriculum provides educators with an array of engaging resources that introduce students to the importance of sorghum as a sustainable, versatile and flavorful grain that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. The program also aims to ignite the passion for agriculture in the next generation, cultivating an understanding and appreciation for sorghum. The Sorghum Farm-to-School curriculum engages students of all grade levels, from Kindergarten to 12th grade, through experiential learning. Tailored modules for elementary, middle, and high school students offer rich, multisensory experiences. Students not only grow and taste sorghum, but they also explore various subjects by writing about and applying their knowledge of sorghum. Find tailored curriculum content and activities by exploring SorghumCheckoff.com/educators. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Demand Plummets After Holiday The nation's average price of gasoline has remained unchanged from a week ago, holding at $3.50 per gallon, according to GasBuddy. The national average diesel price fell 1.3 cents in the last week and stands at $3.79 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “After declining going into July 4, average gasoline prices have struggled to find much momentum in either direction as the price of crude oil has continued to bounce around.” U.S. retail gasoline demand saw an 8.6 percent drop last week as the July 4 holiday closed and motorists returned from their holiday plans. However, De Haan says there is a risk of hurricane season and potential disruptions. Colorado State University recently released its third forecast for the 2023 hurricane season, showing a sharp uptick in the number of expected major hurricanes. Oil markets have seen a rally over the last week after Saudi Arabia extended its 1-million-barrel-per-day production cut to August, and Russia joined in by slowing oil exports.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday July 11, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's Short-Term Energy Outlook is the only significant report on Tuesday's docket. Wednesday will be busier with the consumer price index for June and USDA's WASDE report for July set for release. As usual, traders will be watching the latest changes in weather as export sales have been a rare sight. Weather A cold front will continue to provide chances for scattered rain showers and thunderstorms across the Dakotas, Iowa, Nebraska, northern Missouri, and northern Illinois Tuesday into Tuesday night. Some of the strongest storms are likely across South Dakota, eastern Nebraska, and western Iowa. Damaging hail, wind gusts, and tornadoes are all threats with storms that develop across these states.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |

Ag Groups Motion Court to Vacate Biden WOTUS Rule Instead of Issuing Stay LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- Agriculture groups have asked a federal court to order the Biden administration to implement immediate changes to the waters of the U.S. rule following the Supreme Court's ruling in Sackett v EPA that essentially left the current rule unenforceable. Among the immediate changes sought in a motion filed by the groups in federal court in North Dakota is for the agencies to apply the Sackett ruling and formally declare ephemeral and isolated waters as no longer jurisdictional. A preliminary injunction against the WOTUS rule remains in place in 24 states, as ordered by the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota. A federal judge in Texas also issued a preliminary injunction in Texas and Idaho. In Sackett v EPA, the Supreme Court ruled the agency's use of the "significant-nexus" test in making Clean Water Act determinations was unconstitutional. The test is one of two the Biden rule uses to make determinations. The Biden administration had asked the federal court in North Dakota for a stay in the case, telling the judge the agency plans to issue a rewrite by September. "Federal defendants assert that a stay will preserve resources because the 'new rule may resolve, or at least narrow, the issues in this case,'" the ag groups led by the American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, said in a motion they are against a stay. "... Sackett already narrowed the issues in this case," the groups stated in their motion. "Indeed, all five of the categories of WOTUS as defined in the rule are invalid as a result of Sackett's rejection of the agencies significant-nexus test, definition of adjacency to mean having a continuous surface connection and not merely neighboring, adoption of the relatively permanent test from Rapanos, limitation of federal jurisdiction to interstate waters and further limitation of federal jurisdiction to navigable waters." The groups said they have no confidence that any new rule put forward by the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will "fairly account" for the Sackett opinion. "As the Supreme Court highlighted, federal defendants have 'sought to minimize (prior WOTUS rulings') impact," the ag groups said. "And businesses have watched federal defendants evade prior WOTUS decisions in SWANCC and Rapanos. The EPA has provided no details to the court on how it will apply Sackett, has given the Corps no direction as to how to apply Sackett and instead has only stated that it plans to issue a new rule by Sept. 1, 2023." The groups argue that allowing the Biden rule to remain in effect until a new rule is promulgated would put farmers, ranchers and other landowners at "continuing risk of criminal and civil penalties" for "ordinary" use of their property. Injunctions against the Biden rule are in effect in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. EPA and the Corps of Engineers have used significant nexus for years. The standard essentially allows regulators to claim jurisdiction over even dryland features if there is scientific evidence of a chemical and biological connection to an actual navigable water such as lakes, streams and rivers. The Sacketts have filed many appeals on the EPA decision in the past 15 years. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit had sided with EPA's wetland assessment on the Sacketts' property. The court's ruling sends the appeals court decision back to the court for reconsideration. Justice Samuel Alito said in writing the majority opinion that EPA's interpretation of the law "gives rise to serious vagueness concerns in light of the CWA's criminal penalties." "Due process requires Congress to define penal statutes 'with sufficient definiteness that ordinary people can understand what conduct is prohibited,'" Alito wrote, "and 'in a manner that does not encourage arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.' Yet the meaning of 'waters of the United States' under the EPA's interpretation remains hopelessly indeterminate. "The EPA contends that the only thing preventing it from interpreting 'waters of the United States' to 'conceivably cover literally every body of water in the country' is the significant-nexus test."

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |

Food Price Index Continues Downward Trend The U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization’s World Food Price Index averaged 122.3 points in June, down 1.7 points from May, continuing a downward trend. The current level is 37 points or 23 percent below the peak in March 2022. The monthly decline reflected drops in sugar, vegetable oils, cereals, and dairy products, while the meat price index was virtually steady. The Sugar Price Index took the biggest drop, averaging 152 points in June, down 5.1 points from May, the first drop after four consecutive increases. The Cereal Price Index averaged 126.6 points in June, down almost three points from May and almost 40 percent below last year. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 115.8 points in June, three points lower than May and the lowest level since 2020. The Dairy Price Index was 116 points in June, down one point, and the Meat Index was unchanged at 117.9 points in June. *********************************************************************************** Still Mostly Dry in the Weekly Drought Monitor Heavy rains fell during the week in parts of the Midwest, Ohio River Valley, and the Northeast. That led to widespread improvements from southeast Nebraska to central Illinois and parts of Indiana and Kentucky. Further south and west, in southern Missouri, the Texas-Louisiana border, and other parts of central Texas, drier weather led to larger precipitation deficits and significant hay production problems in parts of Missouri. Many warmer-than-normal temperatures covered the South as it is blanketed by the continuing heat wave, especially in eastern Texas and Louisiana. Dry weather in parts of the Upper Midwest led to worsening conditions in parts of Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Conditions in parts of the western Great Plains led to some improvements in long-term dryness and long-term moderate drought in the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandle region and in western Nebraska and eastern Wyoming. A mix of worsening and improving conditions occurred in the Pacific Northwest. *********************************************************************************** PLC Leads Coalition Comments on BLM Proposal The Public Lands Council submitted grazing coalition comments raising concerns with the Bureau of Land Management’s proposed “Conservation and Landscape Health” rule. The PLC’s comments had signatures from 55 state and national organizations, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, American Sheep Industry Association, and the American Farm Bureau. PLC President Mark Roeber says public lands ranchers lead conservation out West. “Our cattle and sheep are the tools we use to feed this country and protect these landscapes,” he says. “We are committed to protecting these lands and the legacies we’ve built on them, especially when it means working to oppose government efforts that will cause more harm than good.” He also says if BLM is serious about lasting conservation, they should have talked to ranchers first and not forged ahead blindly with a controversial rule that will cause billions of dollars in harm to our western states and the American economy. *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Risk Management Options The USDA is expanding insurance coverage options for specialty crops and other actual production history crop programs. Through the Risk Management Agency, it will expand the availability of enterprise units to crops where they were previously not available, giving agriculture producers greater options to manage risk. An enterprise unit allows a producer to insure all acres of the insured crop in the county together, as opposed to other unit structures that separate the acreage for insurance. Enterprise units are beneficial because of the lower premium rates offered to recognize the lower risk associated with geographic diversification. In general, the larger the enterprise unit, the lesser the risk and the greater the enterprise discount. “This expansion gives producers more choices on how they can protect themselves,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. Several crops will have enterprise units available next year, including alfalfa seed, cultivated wild rice, forage production, onions, and others. *********************************************************************************** “Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner” Live Cook Along Cookbook author and social media influencer Shereen Pavlides (Sheh-REEN Pav-LEE-days) will host a live cook-along from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Culinary Center. The event is on Tuesday, July 11, at 4 pm Mountain time. Pavlides will showcase beef on her popular “Cooking with Shereen” Instagram page. Her social media work has earned her more than six million followers across her Instagram, Tik Tok, and Facebook pages. Her followers will be invited to visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com prior to the cook-along, where they’ll see a grocery list and the event details. During the event, she’ll teach her audience how to make one of her favorite recipes – Jamaican Jerk Steak with Coconut Rice. The NCBA is excited to partner with a well-known influencer. “Partnering with an influencer like Shereen allows us to tap into a new audience and introduce the brand to thousands of consumers,” says Clark Price, Federation Division Chair for NCBA. *********************************************************************************** River Level “Whiplash” Continues The Upper Mississippi River experienced high water conditions due to significant snowfall in the Upper Midwest in late winter and early spring. Even after the high-water conditions that resulted from the snow melt, Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook) of the Soy Transportation Coalition says he was worried about quickly returning to low water levels on the river system. “I was worried that any prolonged stretch of dry weather could result in swinging right back to low water conditions,” Steenhoek says. “That has unfortunately occurred.” He also says it serves as a reminder that drought not only inhibits the ability to grow a crop, but it also inhibits our ability to transport that crop. Recent low river gauge readings in St. Louis and Memphis show how barge transportation could be challenging when our export season picks up in late summer and early fall. Low levels may again force companies to reduce tow sizes and freight amounts.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - July WASDE and Weather Patterns OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 9. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. WASDE Wednesday: Markets get an early week shot of news, with Tuesday's WASDE (World Supply and Demand Estimates) report from USDA. A preview of report expectations will be available on all our digital platforms Monday. On Tuesday, we'll have initial numbers in our Flash story just after 11:00 a.m. Central, followed by updates and analysis through the following half hour. As always, DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will have an online discussion of the report at 12:30. 2. Acreage Flip-Flop: In addition to the WASDE report, we'll be watching continued market reaction to recent flip-flops between corn and soybeans news. Last month USDA set planting estimates at 94.1 million acres of corn. DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman notes that even with drought-stricken conditions, 94 million acres can produce a lot of corn, and that could begin to weigh on prices, frustratingly so to those in the dry. Soybeans did on 180 on that, with USDA's June 30 report pegging acres in at 83.5 million: That's not enough, even with bushel-per-acre averages in the mid-50s, to meet all the demand folks have been talking about for a year. 3. Did we Mention the Weather? The week of July 9 temperatures will be near to below normal across the Corn Belt, near to above normal elsewhere. The southern U.S. should continue to see showers from an active front. A low in Canada sends a couple of cold fronts into the Corn Belt, which also ups the shower potential there. But these will unlikely be enough to fix any shortages of subsoil moisture. DTN subscribers can get more details from our Ag Weather Brief, prepared daily by DTN ag meteorologists. 4. Hear our Experts: To catch the latest on the markets and weather crossroads, see our new weekly video "In the News." DTN Farm Business Editor Katie Dehlinger hosts this chat with analyst Todd Hultman and DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick. 5. Weekly Economic Reports: In addition to WASDE, we'll continue to track ag and non-ag economic signals throughout the week. Monday we'll see export inspections numbers at 10 a.m. CDT, with reaction to USDA Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Wednesday will see the release of the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for June at 7:30 a.m.; the Energy Department's weekly energy inventories is at 9:30 a.m., followed by USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports at 11 a.m. On Thursday morning we'll see USDA's weekly export sales report, the U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, all due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT. U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. We finish the week with USDA's export sales report and the U.S. unemployment report are set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 10, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the latest weather events and forecasts affecting crops. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. DTN's preview of Wednesday's USDA reports will also be out early Monday. Weather A disturbance will bring scattered, strong to severe storms to the central and Southern Plains and portions of the Upper Midwest Monday afternoon into Monday evening. Most areas will see less than a half inch of rain from these storms, but isolated higher amounts up to one inch are possible.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 7, 2023 |

Purdue Study Reports 40% More Injuries in Grain Storage Facilities Last year saw a 40 percent increase in the number of injuries and fatalities in confined spaces across agriculture. Purdue University released its 2022 summary of accidents involving agricultural confined space-related injuries and deaths. The summary reported 83 cases, 24 of which were fatal and 59 nonfatal cases involving agricultural confined spaces. That’s almost a 41 percent increase over the 59 cases in 2021. These numbers are approximate, as the study authors realize not every case gets reported. Additionally, the 42 grain-related entrapments represented a 45 percent increase over 2021. Of the 41 non-grain-related cases, incidents included livestock waste handling facilities, entanglements inside confined spaces, falls from confined space structures, and grain dust explosions or fires. Edward Sheldon of Purdue’s Agricultural Safety and Health Program says confined-space incidents continue to result in a significant number of injuries and fatalities. “Use best-management practices to keep yourself and employees safe,” Sheldon says. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Don’t Pick Winners and Losers The National Corn Growers Association submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding its proposed emissions standards. The corn growers are calling on the agency to open pathways for all low-carbon fuels and technologies as it finalizes its multi-pollutant emissions standards for light- and medium-duty vehicles for model years 2027-2032. “For automakers to use new technologies and enhanced engines to meet stringent standards, they need updated fuel that enables new vehicles and fuels to work as a system to enhance greenhouse gas and other tailpipe emissions reductions,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). NCGA says the proposal picks winners and losers and places ethanol on the losing side. “Clean octane from today’s ethanol is 50 percent lower in GHG emissions than gasoline and replaces the most harmful hydrocarbon aromatics to improve air quality and prevents adverse health impacts,” Haag says. “EPA failed to broaden the solutions that reduce transportation emissions.” *********************************************************************************** Soybean Meal Opportunities in Animal Nutrition Collaboration between animal nutritionists and the soy checkoff could bring additional value opportunities for U.S. soybeans, ultimately benefiting both animal agriculture and American farmers. The impact spans the poultry, pig, dairy, and aquaculture sectors. The checkoff brings together industry leaders as a part of its Animal Nutrition Working Group. The group advises checkoff leaders on research investments with the highest value for farmers and the industry. USB’s new strategic plan consists of three priorities for soybean meal, including the overall nutritional composition, improved measurement of anti-nutritional factors, and the resulting benefit to animal production, performance, and health. Soybean meal continues to be the standard for all other protein feedstuffs. This team of nutritionists examines how soybean meal can get used properly beyond just its protein content. One big goal of the collaboration is to encourage a shift toward total value-based ingredient decisions on the production and processing sides of the supply chain. *********************************************************************************** EU Agency Sees No Reasons to Block Glyphosate The European Food Safety Agency says it hasn’t identified areas of concern that would stop the reapproval of glyphosate for use in the EU. Market Screener says EU approval of the widely-used chemical is set to expire at the end of 2023. The agency’s conclusion is a key part of the process of deciding whether renewal will happen. The World Health Organization decided in 2015 that glyphosate was “probably” carcinogenic to humans. Bayer points out that decades worth of health studies show that glyphosate is safe for humans to use. The European Commission will determine whether to propose glyphosate for renewal based in part on the EFSA conclusion. Bayer says it welcomes the agency’s finding and feels it laid the groundwork for successfully renewing glyphosate in the European Union. The food safety agency says even with missing residual trials, its experts concluded there would not be a major concern for consumers. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bill Doubtful to Override California’s Prop 12 Farmers and ranchers are slightly more optimistic that Congress will get a new farm bill passed this year. However, Successful Farming says they don’t think the farm bill will get used to overturn California’s Prop 12 animal welfare law. The pork industry is looking for a legislative way to override the requirement after losing a Supreme Court challenge. About 36 percent of the farmers surveyed in the Purdue University/CME Group’s Ag Economy Barometer say it’s not likely that Congress will overturn Prop 12 in the new farm bill, while 40 percent say they are uncertain about the prospects of a legislative fix. One-fourth of the farmers in the most recent Purdue Survey say it’s at least somewhat likely that Congress will take on Proposition 12 in new farm bill legislation. In contrast, only 37 percent of farmers say it’s still likely a farm bill will get put into law this year. *********************************************************************************** Organic Association Elects New President The Organic Trade Association announced its new leadership team consisting of the board of directors and the president. Tracy Favre (FARV) is the new president and is excited to jump into her new role. She’s worked in natural resource management and the organic sector for over 30 years. Favre served on the National Organic Standards Board from 2012-2017, ending her tenure as the board president. “I’m honored to be serving as the new OTA Board president,” she says. “The organic industry is at an important point in its growth.” Tom Chapman, CEO of the OTA, says they’re excited to welcome the new president and board. “We look forward to working with these dedicated volunteer leaders to keep moving organic forward,” he says. “The new board is committed to working together with members and staff to achieve OTA’s mission of growing and protecting organic.” The 15 board members serve three-year terms.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday July 7, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as the U.S. Labor Department provides nonfarm payrolls and the monthly unemployment report for June, and Canada provides its unemployment report -- possible clues for future interest rates. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to keep a close watch on the latest weather forecasts. Weather A disturbance in the Plains will continue to bring areas of showers and thunderstorms eastward into the western half of the Midwest on Friday. Some of these thunderstorms could be strong to severe, but most likely in the Southern Plains. Milder temperatures are filling in across the Corn Belt and will continue to trend that way through next week.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 6, 2023 |

Farmer Sentiment Rebounds on Future Optimism Purdue University/CME Group’s Ag Economy Barometer Index rose 17 points in June to a reading of 121. The upswing in farmer sentiment was driven by producers’ more optimistic view of the future. However, their perception of current conditions remained unchanged from May. The Index of Future Expectations rose 25 points to 123, while the Index of Current Conditions held flat at 116 in June. Optimism about U.S. agriculture’s future and a more optimistic outlook on interest rates helped explain producers’ more positive view of the future in the June survey. But current conditions continue to present challenges for some producers. This month, four out of ten producers stated that their financial situation has deteriorated compared to a year ago. The Farm Financial Performance Index also rose this month, up ten points from May. The Farm Capital Investment Index rose five points in June to 42, while optimism on farmland values also rose. *********************************************************************************** Three Years of USMCA July 1 was the third anniversary of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement going into effect, and the U.S. pork industry is happy to celebrate the occasion. Pork exports to America’s neighbors, especially Mexico, have soared under the successor to the North American Free Trade Agreement. Since USMCA took effect, U.S. pork exports to Mexico have increased from almost $1.2 billion in 2020 to more than $2 billion last year. Exports to Canada have grown from about $853 million in 2020 to $867 million in 2022. For the first four months of this year, both countries are on pace to take in record amounts of American pork during 2023. Exports to Mexico and Canada totaled nearly $3 billion, accounted for 38 percent of all U.S. pork exports in 2022, and supported more than 16,000 jobs. The USMCA maintained the zero-tariff rate on pork traded in North America which was first established under NAFTA. *********************************************************************************** Groups Want Fairness in Tailpipe Emissions Standards America’s farmers, fuel marketers, retailers, and renewable fuel producers called on the Environmental Protection Agency to change its proposed standards for tailpipe emissions. The groups want the agency to adopt a market-oriented, technology-neutral approach to transportation decarbonization in its final tailpipe emissions standards for 2027-2032 light- and medium-duty vehicles. In a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, the groups say the proposed rule favors electric vehicles while failing to consider the decarbonization potential of existing biofuels that can improve the emissions profile of a majority of cars on the road today. “EPA should use the best available science to accurately account for the full lifecycle carbon intensity associated with particular fuels and technologies,” the groups say. They also feel the proposed rule “artificially tilts the scale” toward electric vehicles without considering other options. The National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, and Growth Energy were among the groups signing the letter. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Checkoff Program Celebrates 15 Years Sorghum industry leaders marked a milestone on July 1, the 15th anniversary of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program. Since its founding, the Sorghum Checkoff has dedicated its efforts to advancing sorghum profitability through innovative research, promotion, and education. “We’ve made significant strides in the past 15 years, and we’re deeply committed to continuing to advance the crop for U.S. sorghum producers and end-users around the world,” says Sorghum Checkoff CEO Tim Lust. “Our board has invested more than $46 million into research aimed at optimizing sorghum as a robust, profitable crop for several value-added end-use markets.” The Checkoff has invested in cutting-edge research to advance production techniques. Key agronomic milestones include introducing the first-ever over-the-top weed and grass control in sorghum. The Sorghum Checkoff also plays a key role in expanding international markets, including countries like China, and it’s boosted public awareness about the nutritional and environmental benefits of sorghum. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for AFTs Brighter Future Fund American Farmland Trust has opened applications for 2023’s Brighter Future Fund Program. It helps farmers nationwide improve farm viability, access, transfer, or permanently protect farmland or adopt regenerative agricultural practices. The last day to submit applications is July 15. The Brighter Future Fund provides grants of up to $10,000 per project. A project may involve one or more individual farmers or farm families, and projects will be awarded on a one-per-farm basis. “Farmers and ranchers work hard to provide for their communities, their families, and their land, but they sometimes need help,” says an AFT news release. “The Brighter Future Fund can provide that help.” The Brighter Future Fund was launched in 2020 to help farmers launch, grow, and sustain farms despite forces impacting the food and agricultural system, including COVID-19, changing markets, and severe weather. Applications will be reviewed and awarded in the order they are received. Go to farmland.org. *********************************************************************************** Retailers Support Reliable Rail Service Act The Agricultural Retailers Association applauded Senator Tammy Baldwin’s Reliable Rail Service Act. “ARA appreciates Senators Baldwin (D-WI) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) for leading legislative efforts to address the continuous rail service problems faced by our industry,” says ARA President and CEO Daren Coppock. “Those challenges have caused supply chain disruptions and negatively impacted other shippers within the agricultural industry.” The retailers want Congress to tackle head-on the significant cost increases and service disruptions that harm the businesses of its ag retailer members and their farmer customers who rely on freight rail transportation to deliver the critical crop input products to feed and fuel the nation. Common carrier obligations still lack a clear definition. “This proposal will provide some needed clarity to the common carrier obligation, improve the Surface Transportation Board’s oversight authority and help ensure railroads provide a reliable service at reasonable rates for shippers, which ultimately benefits consumers,” says Coppock.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday July 6, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets U.S. weekly jobless claims, the U.S. trade deficit for May and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor will all be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. USDA's weekly export sales report will be out Friday, due to this week's holiday schedule. Weather A cold front has stalled in the Southern Plains where some heavier showers are located Thursday morning. The eastern section of the front will continue to relieve heat across the eastern Midwest and will produce some showers as well. An old front will also be active across the Southeast, but it will be back in the Plains that will garner most of the attention Thursday. The front will be a focal point for severe storms but so will a disturbance moving toward the Rockies this evening across the central High Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 5, 2023 |

NCGA Call to Action on EPA’s Emissions Standards Proposal The National Corn Growers Association is urging farmers to submit comments to the Environmental Protection Agency regarding a new proposal on multi-pollutant emissions standards. The call-to-action was launched after the agency first announced the proposal in April. The comment period deadline closes on July 5. The new standards would effectively force automakers to produce electric vehicles at an increasingly rapid rate to comply with the stringent proposed rule. NCGA leadership believes with this one-size-fits-all approach, EPA is ignoring other low-carbon solutions like ethanol. The proposal picks winners and losers in the energy sector and puts biofuels on the losing side. If it’s left unchanged, this rulemaking has the potential to remove hundreds of millions of bushels of domestic corn demand from the market each year. The NCGA is encouraging all members and advocates to let the EPA know that ethanol is a low-carbon solution to emissions reduction that is readily available. *********************************************************************************** Farmers Planted More Sorghum in 2023 Growers planted 6.81 million acres of sorghum for all purposes this year, up eight percent from last year. Kansas and Texas, the top sorghum-producing states, account for 77 percent of the country’s acreage. Growers expect to harvest 5.94 million acres for grain, up 30 percent from last year. Approximately 73 percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was planted by June 18, five percentage points behind the previous year and nine percentage points behind the five-year average. By, June 18, 15 percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage had reached the headed stage, equal to last year but one percentage point behind the five-year average. Sixty percent of the nation’s sorghum acreage was rated in good to excellent condition on June 18, three percentage points above the previous week and 14 percentage points above the previous year. In the meantime, the National Sorghum Producers are now accepting entries for the 2023 National Sorghum Yield Context. *********************************************************************************** USDA: SNAP Payment Error Rates Rise The combined payment error rate for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payments went from 7.3 percent in fiscal year 2019 to 11.5 percent in fiscal year 2022. During those years, USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service says states were providing pandemic-related benefits while coping with staff shortages. The individual state error rates varied dramatically. The report says Alaska was the highest state at almost 57 percent, while many other states were far below the national average. ‘”As part of the flexibilities granted to states beginning in the spring of 2020, Congress removed the requirement for states to conduct quality control reviews, which resulted in USDA being unable to publish the annual national and state payment error rates for fiscal years 2020 and 2021,” FNS said in a release. Stacy Dean, USDA Undersecretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services, says, “The circumstances put an incredible strain on program administration. The rates reflect those challenges.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Expands Crop Insurance Coverage for Camelina The Risk Management Agency announced it will expand insurance for camelina (Kam-eh-LEE-nah) in the Southern Plains and the Pacific Northwest. The move is intended to provide additional grower certainty as demand for the renewable fuel feedstock crop rises across the U.S. The newly adopted program by the RMA now allows written agreements in select counties in many states, including Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and several others. Global Clean Energy Holdings and its subsidiary, Sustainable Oils, Inc., the world’s largest camelina producer, collaborated with the USDA to make this expansion happen. “We like to say that camelina protects like a cover crop and pays like a cash crop, benefits that are increasingly important to strengthening our soil health and rural agricultural communities,” says Mike Karst, President of Sustainable Oils. Camelina is a nonfood crop used as an ultra-low carbon feedstock for renewable fuel. For information, go to the USDA Risk Management website. *********************************************************************************** New ASF Variant Found in China Chinese scientists say they’ve identified what appears to be a new strain of the African Swine Fever virus working its way through three counties in the country. A paper published in the journal Nature Communications says the new virus appears to be a hybrid of the new genotype 2 strain that caused the 2018 outbreak of ASF that began in China and a more recent but less deadly strain identified in 2021. Chris Netherton, head of ASF Vaccinology at the Pirbright Institute, says that the new variant is called genotype 1 for its apparent similarities to older versions of the virus. It causes chronic disease in pigs, but it’s not as deadly as genotype 2, which can kill over 80 percent of the hogs it infects. Feed Strategy Magazine says the data from the Chinese study doesn’t appear to show the new strain is more contagious than the existing variants of ASF. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for the Research Ambassador Program The National Corn Growers Association is looking for qualified graduate students to apply for the Research Ambassador Program. If you’re interested in building a personal network of future agricultural leaders as you begin your career, apply today. To ensure all interested applicants have a chance at this opportunity, NCGA has extended the deadline for applications to its Research Ambassador Program to July 15. Graduate students who are citizens or permanent residents of the United States and are involved in research broadly related to corn production are eligible to apply. Selected students get a $2,500 award, up to $750 to offset travel and registration costs for scientific conferences, and fully-funded travel to participate in NCGA events throughout the year. Ambassadors must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and be actively involved in research relevant to producing corn. The program’s goal is to build a network of future leaders in the agriculture sector.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday July 5, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Back from the 4th of July, U.S. grain and livestock futures open at 8:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by a report on U.S. factory orders for May at 9 a.m. and minutes from the latest Fed meeting at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to keep a close watch on weather and the latest forecasts. Weather An old front continues to be active across southern portions of the country on Wednesday. But it's one that is moving through the Corn Belt garnering most of the attention as it produces areas of showers and thunderstorms over some of the driest parts of the country. Not all areas will be hit as the front moves through, but chances are good across the Central Plains into the southern Midwest for another round of good rain but also some severe storms.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 3, 2023 |

USDA Releases June Planted Acreage Estimates The USDA released its June Planted Acreage Estimates Report, and it shows corn planted area in 2023 is estimated at 94.1 million acres, up six percent or 5.52 million acres higher than last year. It’s the highest planted acreage in the United States since 1944. Soybean planted area for 2023 is estimated to be 83.5 million acres, down five percent from last year. The all-wheat planted area for 2023 is estimated at 49.6 million acres, up nine percent from 2022. At 37 million acres, the 2023 winter wheat planted area is up 11 percent from last year but down one percent from the previous estimate. Of that total, about 25.7 million acres are Hard Red Winter Wheat, 7.66 million acres are Soft Red Winter Wheat, and 3.68 million acres are White Winter Wheat. The all-cotton planted area for 2023 is estimated at 11.1 million acres, down 19 percent from last year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Grain Stocks Report Shows Lower Corn, Beans, and Wheat The USDA released its June Grain Stocks Report, and corn, soybean, and wheat stocks are all down compared to June 2022. Corn is down six percent from last year, soybean stocks are down 18 percent, and all-wheat stocks are 17 percent lower than last June. Corn stocks in all positions on June 1 totaled 4.11 billion bushels. Of that total, 2.22 billion bushels are stored on farms, five percent higher than last year, while off-farm stocks were 1.89 billion, 15 percent lower. Soybeans in all positions were 796 million bushels. On-farm stocks at 323 million bushels were three percent lower. Off-farm stocks were down 26 percent from last year at 473 million bushels. Old crop all-wheat stored in all positions was 580 million bushels, down 17 percent from June 2022. On-farm stocks were 124 million bushels, up 34 percent, and off-farm stocks of 456 million bushels were 25 percent lower. *********************************************************************************** Derecho Hits Farm Country A derecho (deh-RAY-cho) storm system hit parts of the Midwest last week. Hundreds of thousands had no power, homes and cars were smashed, and fields of crops were flattened by the high winds. The line of severe thunderstorms contained wind gusts of 90 miles per hour. The storm moved quickly, starting in southeast Nebraska and northeast Kansas before pushing further east into Illinois and Indiana. “It was a classic line of severe thunderstorms that met all of the criteria for a typical derecho,” says Jonathan Erdman, a senior meteorologist with weather.com. “These types of storms typically form in late spring or early summer and are long-lived, widespread, and damaging wind events.” A derecho typically forms along the edge of an excessively hot and humid airmass like the heat dome that’s been parked over the Southern Plains and lower Mississippi Valley. “They often ride the northern edge of heat domes,” Erdman says. *********************************************************************************** Farmers’ Share of July Fourth Food Dollar Continues to Shrink The National Farmers Union released the 2023 numbers for the Farmers’ Share of the Food Dollar Report covering several items typically found at a Fourth of July cookout. The NFU says every year, the troubling trend of farmers earning less of the dollars Americans spend at the grocery store is continuing. “Whether it’s the highly consolidated meatpacking industry or harmful mergers in the private sector, farmers and consumers are being squeezed out of their hard-earned money,” says NFU President Rob Larew. “It doesn’t have to be that way.” For example, eight-count hamburger buns retail for $3.49, but the farmers’ share is only ten cents. Party-size potato chips are $5.99, but the farmers’ share is 29 cents. Two pounds of ground beef is $11.07, but farmers get just $3.42. Last year, the USDA said the farmers’ share of the food dollar bottomed out at only 14.5 cents of every dollar spent. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Hog Inventory is Slightly Higher As of June first, U.S. farms contained 72.4 million hogs and pigs, which was up slightly from June 2022 and down one percent from March 1, 2023. That’s according to the Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report published last week by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Of the 72.4 million hogs and pigs, NASS says 66.2 million were market hogs, while 6.15 million were kept for breeding purposes. Between March and May 2023, 32.9 million pigs were weaned on U.S. farms, one percent higher than last year. During the same period, America’s hog and pig producers weaned an average of 11.36 pigs per litter. Producers intend to have 2.94 million sows farrow between June and August of this year and 2.95 million sows farrow between September and November. Iowa hog producers had the largest inventory among the states at 23.8 million head. Minnesota had the second-largest inventory of 8.7 million head. *********************************************************************************** ERS Finds Increasing Concentration in Ag and Food Sectors The USDA’s Economic Research Service looked into market concentration and its impact on competition. It’s a subject that’s attracted growing public scrutiny. The ERS study says market concentration, which is measured by the share of industry sales held by the largest firms, has increased sharply over the last four decades in many seed, livestock, and food retail markets. From 2018-2020, two seed companies accounted for 72 percent of planted corn acres and 66 percent of planted soybean acres in the U.S. In 2019, the four largest meatpackers accounted for 85 percent of steer and heifer slaughter and 67 percent of hog slaughter. In most metropolitan areas, five to six store chains account for most supermarket sales. Economic theory and empirical analysis demonstrate that high concentration can facilitate the exercise of market power, with firms driving sales prices above or livestock prices below the prices that would prevail in competitive markets.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 3, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - High Winds and Market Holidays OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of July 2. Watch for coverage of these and other topics throughout the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Weather Damage Updates: We'll continue to watch and update how these strong weather systems bring good and not-so-good news to various parts of the country. Rain will be easing drought conditions, and looks to be particularly good for the southern half of the U.S. Hopefully that won't include more damaging winds and hail. 2. Happy Independence Day: Markets will be closed July 4, with electronic markets reopening at 8:30 CDT Wednesday. We'll have grain and livestock market updates first thing Wednesday morning. Have a safe day celebrating and don't eat too many hotdogs. 3. Field Day Season: If you're traveling rural roads you can't help but see the sudden flush of bright field signs, a clue that field day season is upon us. The DTN/Progressive Farmer crew will be out and about, reporting on new products and things to come, as well as connecting with you. If you spot us at a field day in your area, say hello! 4. Hay and Forage Conditions: We're continuing to watch hay markets and forage conditions, particularly in the drier areas of the country. Farmers are in general reporting smaller grass hay crops, and prices remain strong. 5. Key Reports through the Week: Markets will key up on a number of economic reports coming out in the shortened week. Monday will see world manufacturing indices, including one from the U.S., at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is at 10 a.m. and the Crop Progress report hits at 3 p.m. A new Fats and Oils report is due out at 2 p.m. Wednesday markets reopen, and we'll get the May U.S. factory orders report as well as the minutes from the latest FOMC (Fed) meeting. Thursday sees the weekly U.S. jobless claims report, the U.S. trade deficit for May and the highly anticipated U.S. Drought Monitor update. All those hit at 7:30 a.m. U.S. Energy Department's report on natural gas storage comes in at 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. Friday we'll be watching the USDA export sales and the latest U.S. unemployment report, both set for 7:30 a.m. CDT.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday July 3, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Manufacturing indices from around the world will be out early Monday, along with one for the U.S. at 9 a.m. CDT. USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m., followed by the Fats and Oils report from NASS at 2 p.m. and Crop Progress at 3 p.m. U.S. grain futures close at their normal times Monday and open next at 8:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. Weather A front from the weekend over the South and another moving down from Canada into the Northern Plains will produce areas of showers and thunderstorms Monday. Some severe weather will be possible in both areas. Some leftover heat remains across the Southeast and temperatures will be quite warm from Texas up into Minnesota as well, but fall dramatically behind the second front in the Northern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 30, 2023 |

NCBA Files Motion to Strike Down WOTUS The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association filed a motion in the U.S. District Court of Southern Texas asking it to strike down the Biden administration’s Waters of the U.S. Rule. The motion comes in light of the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA. “A full rewrite of the Biden administration’s WOTUS definition is the only path to comply with the Sackett decision,” says NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. “NCBA is seeking summary judgment in our lawsuit against the Biden WOTUS rule and urging the Southern District of Texas to strike the rule from the books.” Separate from the Sackett case, NCBA led a coalition in filing suit against the Biden rule to keep it from taking effect. NCBA helped secure injunctions in 27 states to temporarily halt the rule. “NCBA has been fighting the overreaching WOTUS rules for years, and this is the latest example of our fight,” says Hart. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investments Promote Competition and Strengthen the Supply Chain The USDA is making investments to increase independent meat and poultry processing capacity, expand market opportunities for farmers, and support a growing workforce in rural areas. “While American farmers and ranchers have been responding to the demand to produce more, their communities have struggled to see their share of benefits,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We’re committed to championing meat and poultry processors, increasing competition, and lowering the costs for working families.” USDA is providing 15 awards totaling $115 million in 17 states. The agency is also providing another five awards totaling $38 million through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program. USDA will also provide ten awards totaling $77 million under the Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program. The announcement supports projects from Colorado, Connecticut, Maryland, Montana, and several other states. The investments will build a pipeline of well-trained meat processing workers and support safe workspaces with fair wages. *********************************************************************************** Colombia Lifts Ban on U.S. Poultry Exports Quick action resolved an issue that temporarily stopped American poultry product exports to Colombia, the tenth-largest market for those products. Colombia’s Ag Ministry instructed all Colombian ports to deny import permits to any poultry products beginning June 1 due to concerns about Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Approximately $1.1 million worth of U.S. exports were impacted between June 3 and June 8. The Foreign Ag Service, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, and the U.S. Trade Representative worked together to leverage the free trade agreement to pressure Colombian officials to lift the ban. The cooperative effort brought a reversal to fruition on June 8. The previous denial of import licenses, stuck shipments of U.S. poultry, and the uncertainty of market access directly impacted consumers and American businesses. Tyson Foods, PriceSmart, and McDonald’s were some of the main companies hit by the ban. The market accounted for over $100 million in 2022. *********************************************************************************** Drought Tightens Grip on Midwest, Eastern Great Plains The Midwest and east-central Great Plains saw conditions worsen with widespread crop stress and lower stream flows in this week’s Drought Monitor. Heavy rains in parts of Ohio and Kentucky led to some improvements in the short-term drought. However, much of the Midwest saw conditions stay the same or get worse, especially in central Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, southwest Wisconsin, southeast Minnesota, and southeast Iowa. Almost completely-dry weather in Missouri and southern Illinois created potential problems for corn and soybean production. In southeast Iowa, producers reported rolling corn leaves and stunted soybeans. The weather was varied in the High Plains. Much of the northern parts, except for eastern Nebraska and eastern Kansas, saw widespread precipitation, some of it heavy. Conditions got drier in southeast Nebraska and northeast Kansas. Much warmer than normal temperatures covered the western half of the South. Most of the West was near to below-normal in temps during the week. *********************************************************************************** Former NCGA President to Lead MAIZALL John Linder, a former president of the National Corn Growers Association, was elected to serve as the president of MAIZALL (Mayz-all). The Ohio corn grower will lead the international farm organization that focuses on eliminating regulatory obstacles to innovation in agriculture. The group contains members from the U.S., Brazil, and Argentina. His one-year term starts on July 3, and NCGA’s current leadership expressed enthusiasm over the news. “John is a dedicated leader, and he will no doubt do an outstanding job leading MAIZALL,” says current NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). MAIZALL engages private sector stakeholders, national government officials, and leaders from international organizations like the World Trade Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The goal is to work towards alignment on regulatory barriers to trade. “Trade is vital to American farmers,” Linder says. “As MAIZALL president, I will encourage foreign governments and international organizations to embrace science-based regulatory decision-making.” *********************************************************************************** NMPF Issues Letter on Lab-Produced “Milk” The National Milk Producers Federation sent a letter to the Food and Drug Administration regarding lab-produced fake “milk.” A company called Bored Cow calls its product milk, which the U.S. dairy industry says is completely false. “They take water and add what we believe to be one unidentified, lab-engineered ‘whey protein’ along with a highly processed concoction of food additives, preservatives, oil, sugar, and several added vitamins, and claims it is ‘animal-free dairy milk,” says NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “It’s baseless, absurd, and preposterous to call the resulting product ‘milk.’” The federation has repeatedly called on FDA to enforce its identity standards for milk as plant-based fakes have proliferated. It’s now warning the agency that lab-based milk imposters will be next without agency action. Lab-based milk imitators are following the plant-based playbook and plastering “milk” and other standardized dairy terms on products that have nothing in common with true dairy.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 30, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets Reports on U.S. personal incomes and consumer spending are due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, along with the PCE index for May, the Federal Reserve's favorite inflation indicator. The University of Michigan's index of consumer sentiment is set for 9 a.m., followed by USDA's Acreage and Grain Stocks reports at 11 a.m. Weather A hot ridge continues over the South-Central U.S. on Friday, and areas of thunderstorms will pass along the northern rim from Kansas and Nebraska through the Ohio Valley again throughout the day. While another derecho, like one that occurred on Thursday, is not anticipated early this morning, some areas of severe weather are likely to occur.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 29, 2023 |

Ag Groups Motion Texas Court to Vacate Biden Waters of US Rule as EPA Starts Rewrite LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- Agriculture groups asked a federal court in Texas to strike down the Biden administration's waters of the U.S. rule (WOTUS) even as the EPA announced this week it would rewrite and issue a new proposed rule by Sept. 1. Ag groups led by the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, American Farm Bureau Federation and others filed a motion for summary judgement in the U.S. District Court for the District of Southern Texas in Galveston on Wednesday, telling the court the recent ruling by the Supreme Court in Sackett v EPA establishes the Biden rule as "unlawful." The Texas court previously issued a preliminary injunction against the rule for the states of Texas and Idaho. The ag groups asked the court to require the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to apply the Supreme Court's decision as the "operative framework" for making jurisdictional determinations and approving permit applications, until the administration promulgates a new rule. The Supreme Court declared unlawful the agencies' use of the significant-nexus test when making Clean Water Act determinations. The EPA motioned for a stay in a lawsuit filed in a federal court in North Dakota this week, telling the court the agency will be issuing a new proposed rule by or before Sept. 1. "Business plaintiffs' members and their clients who operate in every state remain subject to that rule in the 23 states in which it is not enjoined," the ag groups said in their Texas motion. "Worse, although Sackett determines the agencies' jurisdiction in the vast majority of circumstances, the Corps has announced that it will not issue AJDs (jurisdictional determinations) anywhere until the agencies promulgate a new rule, putting business plaintiffs' members and their clients at continuing risk of criminal and civil penalties for ordinary use of their property. Only vacatur of the rule, agency adherence to Sackett to process AJDs and permits and prompt promulgation of a new rule can end this arbitrary roadblock to the lawful use of the land." NCBA's Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart said in a press release, "A full rewrite of the Biden administration's WOTUS definition is the only path to comply with the Sackett decision." In its motion for summary judgement the ag groups said the court should "immediately supply clear directions to Corps offices and other stakeholders that ephemeral and isolated waters are no longer jurisdictional" and that jurisdictional determinations should reflect that. "Delay in providing clear direction perpetuates the conduct for which the agencies were admonished in Sackett," ag groups said. "There is no warrant for the agencies, after nearly two decades during which they unlawfully expanded their authority by imposing a significant nexus test on land users, to continue to hold the threat of criminal and civil sanctions over businesses for ordinary land uses now that the Supreme Court has established clear jurisdictional rules."

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 29, 2023 |

Reintroduced Legislation Would Improve Freight Rail Service Lawmakers in the U.S. Senate Thursday reduced the Reliable Rail Service Act. The legislation seeks to help address the unreliable service and high costs of rail shipping for American businesses. Supported by members of the agriculture industry, labor organizations, energy producers, and manufacturers, the bill ensures the largest freight railroads provide American businesses reliable services at reasonable rates. Rail shippers, including farmers, continue to face poor service, significant service disruptions, and sky-high prices that are impacting communities, and consumers, all while the nation's largest railroads' profits are at record highs. Senators Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, and Tammy Baldwin, a Wisconsin Democrat, reintroduced the legislation. Marshall says, "Service failures hurt our shippers who use the rail to deliver their products to key export facilities." The bill establishes specific criteria for the Surface Transportation Board to consider when evaluating whether carriers are meeting their common carrier obligation to give shippers much-needed certainty that is currently lacking. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Seek PFAS Farm Bill Funding A group of lawmakers is asking for Farm Bill funding to help rural communities with PFAS contamination. In a letter to leadership of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees, the lawmakers say, "It is imperative that we take decisive action to provide assistance and relief to those affected by PFAS.” The use of PFAS chemicals in various industrial and commercial applications has led to widespread contamination, posing a significant threat to our environment, public health, and agricultural systems. Farmers and rural communities, in particular, bear the brunt of PFAS contamination, according to the letter, as it affects their drinking water, soil quality, and livestock health. The lawmakers urge Farm Bill writers to include the Healthy H2O Act within the legislation. The bill aims to address PFAS contamination in water supplies by funding water testing, treatment, and remediation. The effort was led by Senator Democrat Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine. *********************************************************************************** USDA Solicits Nominations to the Tribal Advisory Committee The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced it will establish a Tribal Advisory Committee and is requesting nominations for membership. The notice is among USDA’s efforts to remove barriers to service for tribal governments, citizens, and tribal nations. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack called the committee “an important step towards ensuring tribal perspectives are well represented at USDA and positioned to inform how the Department meets its trust responsibility to tribes across the nation." Authorized in the 2018 Farm Bill, the Tribal Advisory Committee provides advice and guidance to the Secretary of Agriculture on matters relating to tribal and Indian affairs. As a federal advisory committee, the Tribal Advisory Committee will provide invaluable recommendations on USDA programs and policies, including through an annual report to Congress. The nomination period for membership to serve on this advisory committee will be open through August 14, 2023. Specific information and nomination instructions are available in the Federal Register. *********************************************************************************** Genetically Modified Seed Prices Rising Faster Than Non-GM Prices farmers paid for crop seed increased significantly faster than the prices farmers received for crop commodities between 1990 and 2020. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that during that period, the average price farmers paid for all seed rose by 270 percent, while the crop commodity price index rose 56 percent. For crops planted predominantly with genetically modified seed – corn, soybeans, and cotton – seed prices rose by an average of 463 percent between 1990 and 2020. During this period, GM seed prices peaked in 2014 at 639 percent above 1990 price levels. Despite their higher cost, GM crop varieties have provided significant productivity gains for farmers, partly through higher yield, but also by lowering farm production costs. For example, GM traits for insect resistance reduce the need for insecticide applications. Similarly, GM traits for herbicide tolerance provide a substitute for mechanical tillage, thus reducing labor, machinery, and fuel previously used for controlling weeds. *********************************************************************************** Survey Highlights Barriers to Effective Herbicide-Resistant Weeds Management A recent survey of certified crop advisors in all 50 U.S. states shows they are concerned about the escalation of herbicide resistance and the impediments to effective weed management. The Weed Science Society of America survey found that four out of ten crop advisers were concerned about the challenges in managing herbicide-resistant weeds over the next five years – a significantly higher percentage than those concerned about resistance to insecticides or fungicides. Concern was greatest among those working with large-scale growers in the West or the Great Plains states and those supporting corn, rice or beet production. Crop advisors listed economics as the number one barrier to effective management of herbicide-resistant weeds, followed by management complexity, supply constraints, limited available technology, time constraints and the misguided perception that a "silver bullet" will emerge to support the management-resistant weeds. In addition, 82 percent of those surveyed agree or strongly agree that growers need to evolve how they think about resistance management. *********************************************************************************** NACD Applauds USDA Bolstering Working Lands for Wildlife Program The National Association of Conservation Districts welcomed this week’s expansion of USDA’s Working Lands for Wildlife program. The expansion includes close alignment of the Natural Resources Conservation Service and Farm Service Agency, centered around WLFW Frameworks for Conservation Action. The frameworks are biome-level conservation strategies rooted in the latest science and best practices. Their research and conservation tools are used to align stakeholders and prioritize conservation actions to achieve landscape scale objectives and benefit both people and wildlife. NACD President Kim LaFleur says, “This strategy will provide producers and land stewards in critical biomes across the country the opportunity to voluntarily implement conservation that enhances wildlife habitats. Since 2010, more than 8,400 producers in 48 states have teamed up under WLFW to conserve and enhance nearly 12 million acres of working agricultural lands. Conservation districts, land operators, and partners can learn more about participating in the WLFW program by visiting the program’s webpage and talking with their local NRCS staff.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 29, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, first quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas supplies follows at 9:30 a.m. and traders will continue to pay close attention to the latest weather forecasts. Weather Disturbances moving through the Corn Belt will bring rounds of showers and thunderstorms on Thursday, especially from Nebraska to Indiana. Some of these storms may become severe with wind and hail the most likely threats and centered on Illinois, where the rain would be most welcome. South of this zone of precipitation, heat continues to build with triple digits extending up into Missouri and perhaps southern Illinois.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 28, 2023 |

Cost of Summer Cookout Down Slightly From 10-Year High Celebrating the 4th of July with a cookout will cost significantly more than two years ago, although prices have fallen slightly from record highs in 2022. Families will pay $67.73 to host an Independence Day cookout with ten family members or friends, based on the 2023 American Farm Bureau Federation marketbasket survey. The $67.73 grocery bill is down three percent from 2022, but still approximately 14 percent higher than prices were just two years ago. Last year set a record high since AFBF began the survey in 2013, and 2023 comes in as the second-highest cost. The cookout favorites include cheeseburgers, chicken breasts, pork chops, homemade potato salad, strawberries and ice cream, among other products. The marketbasket survey shows a year-to-year increase in the cost of hamburger buns, beef and potato salad, while there are drops in the cost of chicken breasts, lemonade and cookies. Although historically high, the cost of the cookout breaks down to less than $7 per person. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Cost of Home-grilled Cheeseburger up 10 Cents From 2022 Following the Farm Bureau marketbasket survey, USDA’s Economic Research Service Tuesday reports that cheeseburgers will cost more this year for an Independence Day cookout. USDA says that in May 2023, the ingredients for a home-prepared ¼-pound cheeseburger totaled $2.17 per burger, an increase of 10 cents from 2022. Prices for cheeseburger ingredients grew more slowly over the year than prices for all groceries, which rose 5.8 percent from May 2022 to May 2023. Ground beef made up the largest cost of the burger at $1.24, and Cheddar cheese accounted for $0.37. Both these items increased in price by 3.5 percent between 2022 and 2023 and together accounted for half the increase in costs. Bread prices rose the fastest, by 21.5 percent, and added 4 cents to the cost of a burger between 2022 and 2023. Tomato prices fell slightly over the year, but an increase in lettuce prices added one cent to total costs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Investment in Wildlife Conservation The Department of Agriculture Tuesday expanded wildlife conservation investments by $500 million over the next five years. The effort leverages all available conservation programs, including the Conservation Reserve Program, through its Working Lands for Wildlife effort. The commitments will ramp up the conservation assistance for farmers, ranchers, private forest owners and tribes with a focus on working lands in key geographies across the country. The funding will help deliver a series of cohesive Frameworks for Conservation Action, which establish a common vision across the partnership of public and private interests and goals for delivering conservation resources in a given ecosystem, combining cutting-edge science with local knowledge, according to USDA. The new funding includes $250 million from the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program and $250 million from the Environmental Quality Incentives Program. USDA Undersecretary Robert Bonnie says, “Working Lands for Wildlife is ready to go to the next level, and today’s incorporation of the Conservation Reserve Program into its vision is a major leap forward.” *********************************************************************************** CFTC Announces Second Voluntary Carbon Markets Convening July 19 The Commodity Futures Trading Commission announced the second voluntary carbon markets convening set for next month. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 19, at the CFTC's Washington, D.C. headquarters at 11:30 a.m. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss recent private sector initiatives for high-quality carbon credits, current trends and developments in the cash and derivatives markets for carbon credits, and public sector initiatives related to carbon markets. CFTC Chairman Rostin Behnam says, “The voluntary carbon markets are at a critical point in their development and growth, and the has an important policy responsibility to promote product innovation, price discovery, and liquidity for high-quality carbon credits.” As the voluntary carbon markets evolve, the goal of the meeting is to build upon the information discussed at the CFTC’s first convening and the information learned from public comments as submitted in response to the Commission’s June 2022 Request for Information on Climate-Related Financial Risk. *********************************************************************************** Animal Food Manufacturers Vital to US Economy New research from the American Feed Industry Association shows the industry drives economic growth across the national and local economies. The organization's economic contribution study estimates that in 2023, the total animal food industry, including indirect and induced effects, will generate $267.1 billion in sales. The industry will employ roughly 760,000 full- and part-time and contract employees, paying out $55 billion in salaries and employee benefits before year-end. At the local, state and national levels, the industry will file $18.5 billion in taxes in 2023. The 83-page report showed that the top five states for feed and pet food sales this year will be California, with an estimated $19.5 billion, Missouri at $18.6 billion, Texas at $17.1 billion, Iowa at $16.5 billion, and Kansas at $16.2 billion. The states with the most feed mills included Texas, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. Missouri employs the most animal food manufacturing employees with over 54,350, followed by California, Texas, Iowa and Pennsylvania. *********************************************************************************** Biden Administration Announces Allocations for High-Speed Internet Program The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration this week today announced allocated funding for reliable high-speed internet. States, D.C., and territories will use funding from the $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program to administer grant programs within their borders. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo says, “What this announcement means for people across the country is that if you don’t have access to quality, affordable high-speed Internet service now – you will.” The funding will be used to deploy or upgrade broadband networks to ensure that everyone has access to reliable, affordable, high-speed Internet service. Once deployment goals are met, any remaining funding can be used to pursue eligible access-, adoption-, and equity-related uses. States, Washington D.C., and territories will receive their formal notice of allocation on June 30, 2023. To view state-by-state funding across the Biden Administration's high-speed Internet portfolio, visit InternetforAll.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 28, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT, including ethanol production. Traders continue to keep a close watch on weather and the latest forecasts ahead of Friday's Acreage and Grain Stocks reports from USDA. Weather A few weak disturbances will be moving through the Corn Belt on Wednesday with areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms. Some severe weather will be possible, mostly centered on Wisconsin, though we may see that threat expand elsewhere in the region. Heat that had been over Texas early this week will expand up into Kansas and the Ozarks Wednesday and farther north and east the rest of the week with triple-digit readings for a few days.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 27, 2023 |

Biden Administration Set to Issue New WOTUS Rule by Sept. 1, Asks for Court Stay LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- EPA plans to complete a proposed rewrite of the 2023 waters of the U.S. rule on or before Sept. 1, 2023, after a Supreme Court ruling in May essentially struck down the Biden administration rule. The agency filed a motion to stay an ongoing WOTUS lawsuit in federal court on Monday, telling the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota that a rewrite is on the way. "Federal Defendants respectfully request that the court stay this case," EPA said in its motion. "Good cause exists for this request. Federal defendants are developing a new rule to amend the 2023 rule consistent with Sackett." The agency said in its motion it would be best to preserve resources and conserve "judicial economy" by staying the case. The federal court in North Dakota had issued a 24-state preliminary injunction against the Biden rule. "Federal defendants' new rule may resolve, or at least narrow, the issues in this case," the agency said in the motion. "A stay will allow the parties time to assess the new rule and determine whether to continue to litigate this case. A stay will also serve the interest of judicial economy because it may result in avoiding unnecessary litigation and/or narrowing the issues." The injunction is in effect in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. In addition, an injunction is in place in Texas and Idaho as a result of a lawsuit filed in Texas. In Sackett v EPA, the Supreme Court ruled that a tract of land owned by Michael and Chantell Sackett in Idaho was not a WOTUS. In addition, the court struck down the agency's use of the so-called "significant-nexus" standard to make Clean Water Act determinations. EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have used significant nexus for years. The standard essentially allows regulators to claim jurisdiction over even dryland features, if there is scientific evidence of a chemical and biological connection to an actual navigable water such as lakes, streams and rivers. The Sacketts have filed many appeals on the EPA decision in the past 15 years. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit had sided with EPA's wetland assessment on the Sacketts' property. The court's ruling sends the appeals court decision back to the court for reconsideration. Justice Samuel Alito said in writing the majority opinion that EPA's interpretation of the law "gives rise to serious vagueness concerns in light of the CWA's criminal penalties." "Due process requires Congress to define penal statutes 'with sufficient definiteness that ordinary people can understand what conduct is prohibited,'" Alito wrote, "and 'in a manner that does not encourage arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.' Yet the meaning of 'waters of the United States' under the EPA's interpretation remains hopelessly indeterminate. "The EPA contends that the only thing preventing it from interpreting 'waters of the United States' to 'conceivably cover literally every body of water in the country' is the significant-nexus test." Alito's ruling noted in defining "waters of the U.S.," the court revisits what has been "a contentious and difficult task." Alito said the phrase "waters of the U.S." has sparked decades of EPA action and litigation. The boundary between "significant" and insignificant is far from clear, Alito wrote. EPA argued that "waters" also include wetlands. But Alito points to the presence of puddles and noted in an earlier decision that ponds are not considered part of waters of the U.S.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 27, 2023 |

Plan Would Increase Access to Crop and Livestock Insurance Representatives Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Angie Craig (D-MN) introduced the Crop Insurance for Future Farmers Act. It would equip new producers, beginning farmers, and U.S. veterans with the crop insurance protections they need to be productive, profitable, and successful. The legislation would align the definition of “Beginning Farmer” to match most other beginning-farmer programs, extending crop and livestock insurance protections to ten years for new and beginning farmers. This increase to ten years would apply to all federal crop insurance programs, including livestock policies. “We have to do a better job of helping new farmers build successful operations,” Craig says. “We’re working to strengthen the farm safety net and ensure we’re preparing the next generation of family farmers.” Recent estimates say 34 percent of all U.S. producers are over 65 years old, while only eight percent were under 35. Forty percent of all farmlands will transfer ownership over the next 20 years. *********************************************************************************** USDA Investing $500 Million to Expand Domestic Biofuels The USDA is planning to invest up to $500 million to increase the availability of domestic biofuels and give Americans additional cleaner-fuel options at the pump. “By expanding the availability of homegrown biofuels, we’re strengthening our energy independence, creating new market opportunities and revenue streams for American producers, and bringing good-paying jobs and other economic benefits to rural and farm communities.” The first group of applicants for funding through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program will receive $25 million for 59 infrastructure projects. In July, the USDA will start accepting applications for another $450 million in grants through the HBIIP. These grants will support the infrastructure needed to lower out-of-pocket costs for transportation, fueling, and distribution facilities to install and upgrade biofuel-related infrastructure like pumps, dispensers, and storage tanks. Grants cover up to 75 percent or $5 million of total project costs to help facilities convert to higher-blend fuels. *********************************************************************************** BLM Extends Public Comment Period on Conservation Rule The Bureau of Land Management extended the public comment period on its new land use rule through July fifth. The bureau wants more feedback on its proposal to elevate conservation on federal lands. The announcement is getting significant pushback from the Public Lands Council, conservatives, energy companies, and ranchers in the Mountain West. Under the proposal, conservation would get equal footing to other land uses like oil and gas drilling, mining, grazing, and timber harvesting. Environmental groups would be allowed to lease federally owned parcels for preservation and habitat restoration. Opponents say changes to the rules for 246 million acres of land would undermine the industries that rely on those lands. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon says, “Simply put, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. It pits productive uses of public lands against conservation – a gross mischaracterization of the concept.” The House and Senate already have bills to halt the rule. *********************************************************************************** Lawmaker Reintroducing Bill to Get EV Industry into Biofuel Program A Democratic lawmaker announced plans to reintroduce a bipartisan bill that would get electric vehicles into the national biofuel blending program. The legislation would allow electricity generated from renewable biomass to qualify for credits under the Renewable Fuel Standard. The White House recently stopped plans to do so for fear of lawsuits. Under the bill, companies that produce power generated from renewable gas used for charging EVs would be eligible to generate lucrative credits under the RFS. That’s a slight but important difference from the Environmental Protection Agency’s approach, which would have allowed EV manufacturers like Tesla to generate the credits. “The manufacturers don’t produce the electricity,” says California Representative John Garamendi, the bill’s sponsor. “We know that the biomass/biogas industry can produce electricity in a way that benefits the overall economy and ecology of the nation.” The bill directs the EPA, which oversees the RFS, to implement the plan. *********************************************************************************** USDA Approves Lab-Grown Chicken The USDA gave two startup companies the go-ahead to sell lab-grown chicken. GOOD Meat, a subsidiary of food tech company Eat Just, Inc., and UPSIDE Foods will be allowed to sell their products that have been cultivated from real animal cells. Investopedia says chicken from GOOD Meat and UPSIDE has been declared safe to eat by the USDA. The announcement followed a “no questions” letter from the Food and Drug Administration earlier this year. Cultured meat, also called cell-based or lab-grown, uses stem cells from animal fat or muscle tissue to feed cells, allowing them to grow. It’s then grown to the proper density in bioreactors before getting separated by a centrifuge. “This news was a major moment for our company, the industry, and the food system,” says Josh Tetrick, CEO of GOOD Meat and Eat Just. Analysts predict the cell-cultured meat industry will eventually be worth approximately $25 billion. *********************************************************************************** Lawmaker’s Working Group to Address Farm Labor Shortage Members of the House Agriculture Committee have formed a bipartisan Agricultural Labor Working Group to tackle the ag industry’s continual labor shortage and address other workforce issues. The group is chaired by Representatives Rick Crawford (R-AR) and Don Davis (D-NC). It will look at solutions to the agriculture industry’s labor needs, including reforming the existing H-2A visa program. Those visas currently allow agricultural employers who meet specific requirements to bring a limited number of foreign nationals to the U.S. to fill temporary, seasonal farm jobs. However, in recent years the number has been insufficient to meet the workforce needs of livestock farmers that need year-round employees. The National Pork Producers Council supports expanding the H-2A visa program to year-round agricultural laborers. It also backs reforming the visa system to help with complexity, backlogs, predictability, and costs. The committee will issue an interim report detailing both the challenges and potential solutions.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 27, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. durable goods orders in May will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday, followed by May U.S. new home sales and a report on U.S. consumer confidence in June at 9 a.m. Traders remain keen on the latest weather forecasts and USDA has not had a daily export sales announcement since June 9. Weather Another couple of disturbances will be moving through the Plains on Tuesday, over the top of a strong heat ridge in Texas. Thunderstorms could be very strong in a few areas, especially along the Kansas-Oklahoma border, where conditions are more favorable for very strong winds out of a convective system that may invoke the term derecho if it comes together.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 26, 2023 |

U.S. and India Announce Resolution on Key Trade Issues U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced that the United States and India have agreed to terminate six outstanding disputes at the World Trade Organization. India also agreed to remove retaliatory tariffs that it imposed in response to the U.S. Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum. The Indian tariffs included American products like chickpeas, lentils, almonds, walnuts, and apples. These tariff cuts will restore and expand market opportunities for U.S. agricultural producers and manufacturers. “This agreement represents the culmination of intensified bilateral engagement over the last two years to deepen our economic and trade ties,” Tai says. “The result is U.S. producers and manufacturers will now enjoy renewed access to a critical global market, and we will strengthen our trade relationship with one of our closest partners.” As India’s Prime Minister makes an official state visit to the U.S., Tai says the agreement opens a new chapter of bilateral cooperation. *********************************************************************************** Ag Reacts to the Dispute Settlement Between the U.S. and India Farmers for Free Trade issued a statement responding to the resolution of a number of trade disputes between India and the U.S. FFT Executive Director Brian Kuehl (KEEL) says India has always represented an enormous market for America’s ag exports. “While there has long been frustration over unnecessary barriers to entry into the Indian market, this announcement is a positive step forward in removing tariffs and opening trade,” he says. “The fact that India placed tariffs on U.S. products in the first place is a reminder of the damage trade wars caused here at home.” Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says the removal of the tariffs is a major win for America’s farmers. “Producers will now be able to increase sales of apples, chickpeas, lentils, almonds, and walnuts to one of America’s top trading partners,” Vilsack says. “USDA applauds the Office of the USTR for their diligence in reaching this welcome agreement.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Supporting American Producers, School Meals, and Emergency Operations Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA is providing $2.7 billion to support American farmers, students participating in school meal programs, and emergency food operations. Almost $1.3 billion goes to states to purchase foods to be distributed to schools for their meal programs, and almost $1 billion for states to order commodities from USDA vendors for emergency food providers. Those emergency providers include food banks and community kitchens that face high demand and supply chain disruptions. USDA is also making up to $400 million in grants available to help support domestic fertilizer production capacity and lower costs for producers. “American agriculture has continued to be resilient in the face of significant and unpredictable challenges,” Vilsack says. “Today’s comprehensive set of investments will help producers by increasing commodity purchases for schools and emergency food providers and supporting expanded domestic fertilizer capacity to help lower costs. This better prepares us for the future.” *********************************************************************************** Senate Appropriations Approves Ag-FDA Funding Bill Senate appropriators unanimously approved a bill to fund the Agriculture Department and Food and Drug Administration through fiscal year 2024. That’s a level of consensus that stands in stark contrast to the deep partisan divides on display during the House’s markup of their agriculture and FDA spending bill last week. The Senate spending bill, which the panel approved 28-0 after just over an hour of discussion, would fund the agencies at $25.993 billion, more than $8 billion above the funding level in the Republican-led House bill. That House spending proposal drew intense pushback from Democrats on the Appropriations Committee over the course of a more than eight-hour markup on June 14. That session ended very abruptly after a particularly heated exchange between Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD) and committee chair Kay Granger (R-Texas). New Mexico Democrat Martin Heinrich, chair of the subcommittee, lauded the bipartisan collaborative nature of the Senate’s spending bill. *********************************************************************************** American Agri-Women Release Vision for 2023 Farm Bill The American Agri-Women released their vision for what’s important in the 2023 Farm Bill. “Agriculture is on the front lines of challenges like dealing with climate, food security, national security, and world-class telecommunications to enable further developments in natural resource management,” says AAW President Heather Hampton-Knodle (Kuh-NO-dle). The group’s recent work builds on concepts the group published in 2022 that include fundamentals like well-funded, flexible crop insurance; revitalizing research infrastructure; access to markets and inputs and credit to help pay for exponential increases in inputs and equipment; and modernizing aging utilities for water and underserved telecommunications in rural areas. Their additions to the original vision include using export programs to secure global supply chains, increasing programs to support rural large-livestock veterinarians, and workforce development for the timber industry. “The farm bill is needed for food security and national security as well as playing roles in a positive trade balance,” says Hampton-Knodle. *********************************************************************************** Drought Intensifies in Several Parts of Rural America Despite mostly near- to below-normal temps in much of the Midwest, excluding the Upper Midwest and Western Corn Belt, much of the region didn’t see appreciable rainfall. As a result, short-term dryness continued to worsen, leading to widespread deterioration. The only improvements took place in the Eastern Corn Belt and Kentucky. Much of the Northern Plains had below-average rainfall during the week, adding to short-term precipitation deficits. Above-normal temps and high winds only made drought conditions worse by increasing moisture loss from soils and vegetation. Several rounds of heavy rainfall with thunderstorms traveled through the south from Oklahoma to Mississippi, leading to targeted improvements in abnormal dryness. Improvements took place in the Texas Panhandle because of well-above-average rainfall. However, the Lower Mississippi and Tennessee Valleys saw short-term dryness continue to increase. Another week of above-normal rainfall across many areas of the Intermountain West resulted in widespread but targeted improvements.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 26, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will examine rainfall amounts and the latest forecasts. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather A cold front moving through the Mid-Atlantic and South will keep areas of showers and thunderstorms going for Monday, after bringing widespread rains to much of the Corn Belt over the weekend. The Great Lakes will see some showers as well as small parts of the Plains and Prairies. South of the front it will be very hot, with another round of triple digit heat for Texas and nearby areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 23, 2023 |

Lawmakers Introduce American Farmers Feed the World Act Lawmakers this week introduced the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023. The bipartisan bill would “keep food in America’s international food aid programs.” Specifically, the legislation aims to restore the original intent of the Food for Peace program without spending additional Farm Bill resources, all while safeguarding the interests of U.S. farmers. U.S. Wheat Associates joined the National Association of Wheat Growers and other agricultural organizations for the introduction of the bill Thursday. USW Director of Trade Policy Peter Laudeman says, “The reforms in the American Farmers Feed the World Act of 2023 will ensure that more food gets to more people in need throughout the world, without spending any additional resources.” Representative Tracy Mann, a Kansas Republican who joined colleagues to introduce the legislation, says, “This bill puts a stake in the ground: it’s a noble thing to feed hungry people, and we should use American commodities as we do it.” *********************************************************************************** Vilsack to Announce Biofuels Funding Monday Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack heads to the Twin Cities area in Minnesota Monday. The Department of Agriculture says Vilsack will announce significant new funding being awarded by USDA to bolster and expand the availability of homegrown biofuels nationwide. During the event, USDA says Vilsack will also underscore USDA's efforts to invest in climate-related research and development in states like Minnesota, which helps result in scientific breakthroughs such as innovative biofuel technologies that combat the climate crisis, lower costs for American producers and families, and boost American energy independence. In the briefing regarding the announcement, USDA did not announce an exact location for the event. The announcement is part of President Biden's Investing in America agenda to rebuild our economy from the bottom up and middle out by rebuilding our nation's infrastructure, creating good-paying jobs, and building a clean energy economy to tackle the climate crisis and make our communities more resilient. *********************************************************************************** California Delays Prop 12 Implementation California this week delayed the implementation of Proposition 12. Granting six months of additional relief for products in the supply chain allows grocery stores to remain stocked so Californians have uninterrupted access to pork products, especially with rising food prices, according to the National Pork Producers Council. In a statement, NPPC claims, “While this temporary solution does not solve the challenges and uncertainty California Proposition 12 brings to our industry, NPPC looks forward to working with Congress to find a permanent solution to this problem.” The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of the law earlier this year, stating Congress, not the courts, has the authority to block the law. Proposition 12 requires veal calves, breeding pigs, and egg-laying hens to be housed in systems that comply with specific standards for freedom of movement, cage-free design, and specified minimum floor space. Implementation of Proposition 12 is now set for January 1, 2024. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces $300 Million Investment for Underserved Producers The Department of Agriculture Thursday announced its selection of 50 projects for potential award, totaling approximately $300 million, for underserved producers funding. The projects will help improve access to land, capital, and markets for underserved farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners. The funding comes from the Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access Program. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "By providing the resources, tools and technical support needed to directly help local farmers and ensure we have a strong agricultural system across the country." For one of the projects, the Community Development Corporation of Oregon will work to provide long-term and sustainable land access to disadvantaged refugee and immigrant beginning farmers in Oregon's east Multnomah and Clackamas counties. Another project by Maine Farmland Trust will work with low-income farmers on access to low-interest capital for land purchase or business operations, farm upgrades and infrastructure investments. See the full list of Increasing Land Access Program selected projects at www.fsa.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Access to Primary Care Varies Across the Country New data released this week from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows access to primary care physicians varies across the United States. The number of primary care physicians per 10,000 residents is generally higher in much of the Northeast, along the West Coast, in Hawaii, and parts of the mountainous West and upper Midwest. The availability of primary care physicians per capita is generally lower in much of the Great Plains—especially the Southern Great Plains—and the Lower Mississippi Delta and Southeast. However, there are substantial variations in the availability of physicians within these regions. For instance, in rural counties, there are fewer physicians per capita in counties adjacent to urban counties than in those farther from urban areas. USDA says this is likely because residents travel from nearby rural areas to urban doctors. The lowest rates of physicians per capita are in rural counties with an urban population of less than 2,500. *********************************************************************************** Pivot Bio Releases First Impact Report Pivot Bio, a sustainable agriculture company, released its inaugural impact report this week. The report documents how farmers are using their products to improve their productivity and profitability without synthetic fertilizer polluting local rivers or contributing to climate change. In 2022 alone, Pivot Bio helped its customers replace over 32,000 tons of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer, avoiding roughly 226,400 metric tons of CO2e - equivalent to powering 44,000 U.S. homes for a year. Pivot Bio CEO Karsten Temme says, "This data shows farmers are using biological nitrogen to reliably increase their productivity, profitability, and sustainability." The company's microbial nitrogen is manufactured with an emissions footprint that is just two percent that of synthetic fertilizer and uses 1,000 times less water. Pivot Bio's microbial nitrogen can replace approximately a quarter of a farmer's synthetic nitrogen. In 2022, it was used by farmers on over three million acres in the United States, and the company reported revenue of over $60 million.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 23, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, but expectations are low as the week only had one modest soybean sale announcement, reported to unknown destinations. At 2 p.m., USDA's June 1 cattle on-feed and monthly cold storage reports are set to be released. The latest weather forecasts remain the primary concern of grain traders. Weather A front that has been stuck in the Northern Plains all week continues to be active on Friday. Showers and thunderstorms have been rather sporadic this week but are expected to increase in intensity as a system in the West approaches Friday night. Additional severe storms are possible near the Texas Panhandle yet again today. An upper-level system continues to spin around the East Coast where showers will be possible across the far eastern Midwest. In between the two, another day of hot and dry conditions continue to stress crops.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 22, 2023 |

EPA Sets Final Renewable Fuel Volumes for 2023-2025 The Environmental Protection Agency Wednesday released final volume requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard for 2023, 2024 and 2025. EPA Administrator Michael Regan says, “Today’s final rule reflects our efforts to ensure stability of the program for years to come.” The announcement provides for annual growth in total renewable fuel volumes, although with lower conventional biofuel volumes than EPA had proposed. For 2023, EPA set an implied 15.25-billion-gallon requirement for conventional ethanol, which includes a supplemental 250 million gallons a prior court decision required EPA to restore to the RFS. For 2024 and 2025, EPA holds the implied conventional volume level at 15 billion gallons, despite proposing 15.25 billion gallons for those two years. National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag says, “A multi-year RFS volume rule offers stability and certainty for renewable fuels. However, when it comes to addressing pressing energy, environmental and economic challenges, EPA’s final rule falls short of the emission reductions and cost-saving benefits the higher proposed ethanol volumes would have provided.” *********************************************************************************** Grassley Condemns Biden Biofuels Bait-And-Switch Senator Chuck Grassley Wednesday criticized the Environmental Protection Agency’s final rule setting minimum biofuels blending levels for the next three years below current production capabilities. The Iowa Republican says, “For an administration obsessed with reducing carbon emissions, this rule makes absolutely no sense.” While the plan makes modest increases to blend levels for certain biodiesel products, the overall biofuels volume remains unchanged, and ethanol volumes were reduced from proposed rule levels. The American Soybean Association also criticized the EPA announcement, as the rule does not accurately reflect the growth expected in the industry and falls far below the industry's current production. ASA President Daryl Cates of Illinois says the announcement fails "to account for the progress being made in biofuels investment and growth." Expanded crush capacity coming online in the next few years translates into about 700 million gallons of renewable diesel, far above EPA's three-year RVO growth of only about 590 million gallons. *********************************************************************************** Ernst, Stabenow, Introduce FARMLAND Act Senators Joni Ernst and Debbie Stabenow this week introduced The Foreign Agricultural Restrictions to Maintain Local Agriculture and National Defense, or FARMLAND Act. The legislation would overhaul the current system that has allowed China’s malign influence to threaten American food security and national security by buying up agricultural land in the United States. Ernst, an Iowa Republican, says, “America needs to know how our foreign adversary has been allowed to use loopholes to attempt to exploit any potential vulnerability and assert control over our agriculture industry.” Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, adds, “This bill safeguards our nation’s farmland and food supply by overhauling the system for federal oversight of foreign land ownership.” Foreign ownership and investment in U.S. agricultural land has nearly doubled over the last decade, according to USDA. Among other things, the FARMLAND Act would develop a publicly available database of agricultural land owned by foreign persons, and prohibit them from participating in Farm Service Agency programs. *********************************************************************************** USDA Reminds Producers to File Crop Acreage Reports by July 17 Agricultural producers who have not yet completed their crop acreage reports after planting should make an appointment with their local USDA office before the applicable deadline, which for many places and crops is July 17. USDA’s Farm Service Agency also reminds producers with login access to farmers.gov of several features that can help expedite acreage reporting, such as the ability to view, print and label maps. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says, “Filing an accurate and timely crop acreage report is an important step in receiving USDA program benefits, including safety net, conservation, and disaster assistance support.” July 17 is a major deadline for most crops, but acreage reporting deadlines vary by county and by crop. Producers should also report crop acreage they intended to plant but were unable to plant because of a natural disaster. Producers can contact their FSA county office for acreage reporting deadlines that are specific to their county. *********************************************************************************** 2022 USDA Nutrition Assistance Spending Declines Federal spending on USDA’s food and nutrition assistance programs totaled $183.0 billion in fiscal year 2022, down six percent from the record-high spending of $194.7 billion in 2021, adjusted for inflation to 2022 dollars. Before adjusting for inflation, total 2021 spending was $183.3 billion. In 2022, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program maximum allotment permanently increased after the Thrifty Food Plan was re-evaluated, and several States also ended SNAP emergency allotments, which temporarily raised all recipients’ benefits to at least the maximum for their household size. SNAP spending totaled $119.5 billion in FY 2022, one percent less than the inflation-adjusted record-high spending in 2021. Spending on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, or WIC, totaled $5.7 billion—an increase of seven percent from inflation-adjusted spending in 2021, reflecting an increase in program food costs per participant. Combined spending on child nutrition programs totaled $35.1 billion in FY 2022, increasing 19 percent from the inflation-adjusted total in the previous year. *********************************************************************************** USDA Promoting Summer Food Safety Whether you’re a grill master or a first-time barbecue cook, food safety should always be part of your routine to ensure a healthy and happy Fourth of July. USDA is promoting summer food safety tips as consumer behavior studies have shown that individuals don’t always properly wash their hands or use a food thermometer. Ensure your food is safe to eat this Fourth of July by following a series of food safety steps. Start with cleaning the grill and other items before the touch food, avoid cross contamination of raw meats and vegetables, and use food thermometers to ensure your grilled food is ready. Although frozen products may appear to be pre-cooked or browned, treat them as raw food and cook thoroughly. The final tip is to chill food properly. Perishable food should be consumed or refrigerated within two hours, one hour if outdoor temperatures are 90 F and above.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 22, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets Thursday morning activities start with weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor at 7:30 a.m., but no export sales report until Friday. U.S. existing home sales and leading indicators for May follow at 9 a.m. U.S. Energy Department's report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by weekly energy inventories at 10 a.m. Federal Chairman Jerome Powell goes before the Senate, likely repeating Tuesday's testimony to the House. Weather A persistent weather pattern this week continues on Thursday with a front stuck up in the Northern Plains that should remain active and a system in the Southeast that continues to spin. Thunderstorms are expected to develop in the High Plains yet again Thursday, which may be severe. Elsewhere in the Corn Belt it will be hot and dry, with stresses continuing to mount as the region looks forward to weekend rainfall.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 21, 2023 |

Poll Shows Voters Think Rural Health Care Lags Behind Urban Areas A new survey from One Country Project shows that voters think health care in rural communities is markedly worse than in the rest of America. Those findings were revealed soon after the OCP hosted its annual Rural Progress Summit. Stakeholders from across the U.S. gathered to discuss challenges facing rural communities and the importance of elevating rural priorities on the national stage. “Access to quality, affordable health care shouldn’t be determined by your zip code,” says OCP Founder and former Senator Heidi Heitkamp. More than 130 rural hospitals have closed since 2010. That leaves rural residents with no option but to travel hours to the nearest medical center, which is especially dangerous in a life-threatening emergency. Air ambulances are often relied on, and the survey shows overwhelming support, at 84 percent, for increasing the Medicare reimbursement rate for air medical services. Medicare currently covers just 50 percent of the associated costs. *********************************************************************************** Rural Mainstreet Index Reaches Highest Level Since 2022 After dropping below growth neutral in March, the June Rural Mainstreet Index expanded above the threshold for a third-straight month to its highest point since May 2022. That’s according to the June monthly survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a ten-state region dependent on agriculture. The overall June reading is 56.9, the highest since 2022 and up from May’s 55.8. The index range is zero to 100, with 50 representing growth neutral. “After negative growth during the first quarter of 2023, the Rural Mainstreet economy experienced positive but slow economic growth for the second quarter,” says Ernie Goss of Creighton University. The region’s farmland price index jumped from 56.3 in May to 59.3 in June. Bank CEOs ranked Federal Reserve rate hikes as the greatest challenge ahead during the next 12 months. Bankers also continue to have a positive outlook for payment of farm loans in the next year. *********************************************************************************** Five Benefits of Modern Dairy Practices Dairy is an important part of the diets of millions of Americans. The average person consumes about 276 pounds of dairy in a year. However, despite its positive impact, a significant portion of the population often misunderstands dairy. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ Dairy Leadership Group put together the top five benefits of modern dairy. The first is the U.S. dairy industry produces more milk than in 1944 with 16 million fewer cows. The dairy industry accounts for 3.5 percent of total U.S. GDP. By way of comparison, the entire auto industry accounts for three percent. Dairy is also more environmentally friendly, having reduced its GHG footprint by 17 percent and water usage by 10 percent in the last 15 years. Ninety-seven percent of the 34,000 dairy farms are family-owned and operated. Dairy is also an excellent source of 18 of the 22 essential nutrients needed for a healthy life. *********************************************************************************** American Farmland Trust Applauds No EMIT’s Act Representatives from Wisconsin and California introduced the “Naturally Offsetting Emissions by Managing and Implementing Tillage Strategies” or “NO EMIT’s Act.” The bill would help support farmers in improving soil health. American Farmland Trust applauded the bipartisan bill’s introduction and its inclusion of one of AFT’s top farm bill priorities: establishing a federal match for state and Tribal soil health programs. “In recent years, states have begun creating innovative soil health programs that fill current gaps in support and help producers voluntarily adopt soil health practices in locally tailored ways,” says Tim Fink, AFT Policy Director. “State programs can struggle to keep pace with producer demand, so creating a federal program to match state and Tribal funding would help leverage existing soil health programs and incentivizes others to create programs of their own.” Creating that federal matching program has broad support from AFT, six state agencies, and stakeholders from 29 states. *********************************************************************************** USDA Accepting Applications for Chile Agribusiness Trade Mission The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for a trade mission to Santiago, Chile, September 25-29. American agribusinesses will participate in business-to-business meetings with potential importers from both Chile and Peru. The trade mission coincides with Peru’s USDA-endorsed food trade show that offers additional networking opportunities for participants. “This year, we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of U.S.-Chile diplomatic relations,” says FAS Administrator Daniel Whitley. “Chile and the neighboring Peru are some of our key trading partners, representing the second and third-largest markets in South America.” Total agricultural exports to these markets have grown significantly since establishing the Chile Free Trade Agreement and the Peru Trade Promotions Agreement. Exports to this region exceeded $2 billion in 2022. During January-April 2023, U.S. ag exports to Chile have increased by four percent from the same period last year. The region features relatively high per capita incomes and purchasing power. *********************************************************************************** PLC Leads Grassroots Campaign Against BLM Land Rule The Public Lands Council launched a grassroots campaign regarding the Bureau of Land Management’s Proposed rule titled “Conservation and Landscape Health.” The proposed rule creates significant concerns about changes to the BLM’s authority to manage the nation’s public lands and opens the door to removing livestock grazing from the range. “The BLM must follow the law in managing our nation’s public lands for multiple uses and sustained benefits for all,” says PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover. “Public lands grazing is an important conservation tool that protects these landscapes and is integral to national food security.” PLC also wants to remind the bureau that grazing is an essential use of America’s public lands, and they hope all stakeholders will join the agency in sending a letter to the BLM’s leadership underscoring the responsibility to be good partners, especially since they’ve “fallen short,” according to Glover. The agency stops accepting comments on July 5.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 21, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets Traders will be paying attention as Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell speaks to Congress Wednesday and to the Senate Thursday, interested in any comments about the future of interest rates. The Environmental Protection Agency is expected to release renewable volume obligations sometime Wednesday, as rumored numbers began circulating Tuesday. Traders will stay close to the latest weather forecasts and consider Tuesday afternoon's lower crop ratings for corn, soybeans and spring wheat. Weather A system continues to spin in the Southeast on Wednesday, which will continue to produce scattered showers and thunderstorms. A front in the Plains will be active as well. Between the two, hot and dry conditions will pressure remaining soil moisture.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 20, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, traders will be paying close attention to weather data and the latest forecasts, the main focus of June's grain markets. A report on May U.S. housing starts is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT, followed by USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. The Crop Progress report will have the latest crop condition ratings at 3 p.m. Weather A pair of ridges are trying to connect up early this week, causing heat to build from Texas into parts of the Midwest. The ridges have stalled a front across the Northern Plains and eastern Canadian Prairies, where showers will come in waves the next few days. A system stuck in the Southeast will see showers continue there as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 19, 2023 |

USDA Investing $320 Million to Strengthen Supply Chains The USDA is investing $320 million to create new and better markets for agricultural producers and food businesses in 19 states across rural America. “Our goal is to expand processing capacity, create fairer markets and more revenue streams and market opportunities to help bring down food costs for families at the grocery store,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “We’re partnering with entrepreneurs in rural areas to build brighter futures, connect business owners to new markets, and create good jobs for generations to come.” USDA is investing the funds to strengthen food supply chains and create more opportunities for producers and entrepreneurs in 19 states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Iowa, Minnesota, and others. For example, family-owned businesses like a meat market and a bison processing facility will be able to expand their production capabilities, maintain the highest quality control possible, and save jobs. For more information on opportunities through USDA Rural Development, go to rd.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** National Drought Summary Showing a Mixed Outlook The Weekly Drought Monitor showed above-normal precipitation and below-normal temperatures resulting in another week of some improvements in the western U.S. The exception is the Pacific Northwest, where drought conditions continue to worsen along the northern Cascade Mountains. The monitor shows a mix of improving and worsening conditions in the Great Plains. Improvements are confined mainly in the western Great Plains. The Corn Belt is seeing widespread degradation of moderate drought and abnormal dryness. High evaporation rates have resulted in significant loss of soil moisture. Any rainfall over the past week in the Southeast U.S. fell in areas that didn’t need it. Virginia is showing moderate drought and abnormal dryness is showing in other locations through the southeast. The Southern U.S. has more mixed totals. Locations in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee experienced increasing dryness. In western parts of the Southern Plains, pockets of heavy rainfall continued adding to 60-day precipitation surpluses. *********************************************************************************** Young Cattlemen’s Conference Graduates 71 Leaders The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Young Cattlemen’s Conference program concluded its successful relaunch after a three-year hiatus. This year’s class included 71 leaders from across the country and every sector of the beef industry. After nine days of intensive training, including a five-city tour showcasing every facet of the beef industry, members completed the trip with a full day of representation in Washington, D.C. The event is designed to expose participants to the full supply chain. Completing the YCC prepares participants to serve as leaders within their state associations in addition to being advocates for the NCBA and the beef community. “During the YCC, each member of the class has had the opportunity to better understand the cattle and beef industries and the complex relationships that represent the industry today,” says 2023 YCC Chair Jake Feddes of Montana. “Each member has also made connections that will benefit them in the future.” *********************************************************************************** County Committee Nominations are Now Open The USDA is accepting nominations for county committee members. Local elections will occur later this year. County committee members make important decisions on how federal farm programs are administered locally. All nomination forms for the 2023 election must be postmarked or received by the local Farm Service Agency by August 1. “Producers serving on FSA county committees play a critical role in the day-to-day operations of the agency, serving as the eyes and ears of the producers who elected them,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. Elections for members will take place in certain Local Administrative Areas (LAA). Ag producers who participate or cooperate in a USDA program or reside in the LAA that’s up for election this year may be nominated for candidacy. Nationwide, more than 7,700 dedicated members of the agricultural community serve on FSA county committees, which are made up of three to 11 members serving three-year terms. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Supports Advancements in Ag Research and Innovation Several senators introduced legislation to invest in public research, develop regionally adapted seed varieties and animal breeds, and enable the U.S. to maintain a robust food and ag system. The Seeds and Breeds for the Future Act promotes the development of ready-to-use, regionally adapted, and publicly available seed varieties and animal breeds. This would give farmers more tools to confront drought and varying growing conditions, and to have plant and animal varieties that are better suited to their area. Regionally developed seed varieties often result in substantial increases in hardiness and yields. It will also ensure America’s farmers have access to domestically produced seeds and breeds that are developed through publicly available research. “We must make sure our farmers and producers have the tools they need to adapt and compete on a global stage,” says bill co-sponsor Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin. “This will make sure our research keeps up with farmer innovation.” *********************************************************************************** Lamb Board Building Local Relationships The continuing trend toward local food sourcing has put hometown butchers and specialty meat shops on the radar of likely lamb consumers. In June, the American Lamb Board connected with 50 of these U.S. businesses through its new “Butcher Box” direct mail kit. The goal is to reengage with this audience for long-lasting relationships that lead to increased sales of domestic lamb. ALB research found that 24 percent of consumers made retail lamb purchases at independent markets and-or butcher shops. Of those consumers, 30 percent were heavy lamb users, and 35 percent were light lamb users. Some of the selected shops already carry lamb, while some don’t routinely offer it. The initial 50 butchers have a chance to get selected as one of 25 “American Lambassadors” to advocate for American lamb. For information on the new list of the 25 American Lambassadors and places to buy lamb, go to americanlamb.com.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 16, 2023 |

Tentative Labor Agreement at West Coast Ports On Wednesday night, the Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union announced a tentative agreement on a new six-year contract. The agreement covers all of the West Coast ports and must still be ratified by both sides. “We are pleased to have reached an agreement that recognizes the heroic efforts and personal sacrifices of the ILWU workforce in keeping our ports operating,” says MPA President James McKenna and ILWU President Willie Adams in a joint statement. “We’re also pleased to turn our full attention back to the operation of the West Coast Ports.” U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom says this is tremendous news for U.S. red meat exporters and their overseas customers. “This agreement will restore stability and confidence in the performance of the West Coast ports and is essential for our industry,” Halstrom says. “We thank both sides for their hard work.” *********************************************************************************** Senate Bill Will Address Prop 12 Kansas Senator Roger Marshall will introduce a bill designed to address California’s Prop 12, which was recently upheld by the Supreme Court. The Hagstrom Report says Marshall’s bill would stop states from enacting laws that affect agricultural production in other states. The Ending Agricultural Trade Suppression (EATS) Act will preserve the right of states and local governments to regulate agriculture within their jurisdictions free from the interference of other jurisdictions. “U.S. agriculture currently lacks access to new markets because of non-tariff trade barriers overseas,” Marshall says. “The last thing we need is a big state like California imposing its will on ag-heavy states with regulations that will restrict our ability to trade among the states.” Bill co-sponsor John Cornyn of Texas says California shouldn’t be able to tell ranchers in his state how to do their jobs. Iowa Representative Ashley Hinson plans to introduce a companion measure at a later date. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Continues Advancing Farmers’ Right to Repair The American Farm Bureau Federation signed a memorandum of understanding with CLAAS (CLAHS) of America regarding the right to repair. This brings the number of signed MOUs with ag manufacturers to five. Combined, the agreements cover about three-quarters of the agricultural machinery sold every year in the United States. “The MOU with CLAAS demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring farmers have access to the tools they need to keep their farms running and America’s families fed,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farmers and ranchers are more dependent on technology than ever, and they asked us to find a private-sector solution on the right to repair.” Eric Raby, senior VP for the Americas with CLAAS says, “We’re providing the promised solutions for our customers’ businesses, as their success and ours go hand in hand.” The agreement means farmers and independent repair shops can now access everything needed to self-repair their machines. *********************************************************************************** USDA Updates ERP Phase Two The USDA is updating the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) Phase Two. The goal is to provide a method for valuing losses and accessing program benefits to eligible producers of certain crops. Those crops can include grapes grown and used by the same producer for wine production or forage that’s grown, stored, and fed to livestock, that don’t generate revenue directly from the sale of the crop. These updates ensure that ERP benefits better reflect these producers’ actual crop losses resulting from 2020 and 2021 natural disaster events. The Farm Service Agency will begin accepting Phase Two applications from eligible wine grape and forage producers once the technical correction to ERP is published in the Federal Register, which should happen by this Friday (today), June 16. The deadline to submit applications for ERP Phase Two is July 14. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says these updates address the unique needs of different producers. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Elects New Leadership The National Corn Growers Association’s Board of Directors elected Ken Hartman, Jr., as the organization’s next first vice president for the new fiscal year starting on October 1. He’s a fifth-generation farmer operating a grain farm with his wife, Anita, daughter, Amanda, and mother, Joan, in Illinois. “I’m honored to continue serving America’s corn farmers with NCGA,” says Hartman. “I look forward to working with my fellow officers as we tackle issues that are critically important to corn growers and rural America.” Hartman currently chairs the NCGA Finance Committee. Hartman was honored by Prairie Farmer magazine with a Master Farmer Award in 2021 for his exceptional ag production skills and commitment to family and service. On October 1, Tom Haag (HAYG) of Minnesota becomes chairman, and the current first vice president, Harold Wolle (WO-lee) of Minnesota, becomes NCGA president. In October 2024, Wolle becomes chairman, and Hartman becomes the organization’s President. *********************************************************************************** Public Lands Council, Western Governors Lead BLM Rule Opposition A proposed rule allowing the Bureau of Land Management to offer conservation-only leases was written without consulting people like farmers and ranchers who depend on the land. In a letter to BLM director Tracy Stone-Manning, about 60 livestock groups say cattle and sheep producers have partnered with BLM in managing 245 million acres of federal land in the West for generations. However, BLM didn’t engage them in developing the proposed rule and gave no warning ahead of time that it was developing a rule. “Individually, each of the components of the proposal would have required detailed discussion,” the letter says. “Together, the components demand BLM do the necessary work of engaging stakeholders to avoid conflict and develop lasting outcomes.” BLM’s five public information sessions have done little to compensate for the agency’s lack of advanced discussions. Instead of engaging stakeholders where they operate, BLM is holding briefings in urban areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 16, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets Other than the University of Michigan's report on U.S. consumer sentiment, due out at 9 a.m. CDT, there are no significant reports Friday. Traders will be closely watching the latest weather forecasts. Markets will close at their normal times Friday, ahead of the Juneteenth market holiday on Monday and resume trading at 7 p.m. CDT Monday evening. Weather A system that has moved into the Plains will continue to slowly progress eastward on Friday. Areas of showers and thunderstorms continue to be possible there as well as across the Gulf Coast. Some severe weather cannot be ruled out but should not be as widespread as the last few days.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 15, 2023 |

USDA Launches Effort to Strengthen Substantiation of Animal-Raising Claims The Department of Agriculture Wednesday began implementing a multi-step effort to strengthen the substantiation of animal-raising claims. The agency says the effort builds on the work of USDA to protect consumers from false and misleading labels. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack adds, "USDA is taking action today to ensure the integrity of animal-raising claims and level the playing field for producers who are truthfully using these claims." Animal-raising claims, such as "grass-fed" and "free-range," are voluntary marketing claims that highlight certain aspects of how the source animals for meat and poultry products are raised. These claims must be approved by USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service before they can be included on the labels of meat and poultry products sold to consumers. FSIS will conduct a sampling project to assess antibiotic residues in cattle destined for the "raised without antibiotics" market. FSIS will also issue a revised industry guideline to recommend that companies strengthen the documentation they submit to the agency to substantiate animal-raising claims. *********************************************************************************** Biden Administration Outlines Strategic Priorities for Wildfires The Biden administration Wednesday announced guidance to federal agency leaders with wildfire responsibilities outlining their vision and goals for managing wildland fires this year. The guidance comes from a joint memo issued by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. The memo highlights other strategic priorities to reduce wildfire risk, restore ecosystems, engage in post-fire recovery, and make communities more resilient to fire. The memo also references the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy as a guide to working with partners to restore and maintain landscapes and help communities become fire adapted. Vilsack says, “We need to better support our firefighters and that’s why President Biden has proposed long-term reforms that will provide permanent pay increases, better housing, better mental and physical health resources, and better work-life balance.” USDA and the Interior Department aim to have more than 17,000 wildland firefighters on board by the end of this year to help support communities increasingly impacted by wildfires. *********************************************************************************** Midwest Lawmakers Aim to Expand Biofuel Production Opportunities Midwest lawmakers this week introduced the Sustainable Aviation Fuels Accuracy Act of 2023. The bipartisan legislation would update federal standards to align with the definition of sustainable aviation fuel at the Federal Aviation Administration. The bill would also require agencies to adopt the Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Technologies, or GREET Model, the most accurate tool for measuring lifecycle emissions. Iowa Republican Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst introduced the bill along with Deb Fischer from Nebraska, and Democrat Tammy Duckworth of Illinois. Grassley says, “Our bill fixes the problem by requiring the FAA reference the most accurate GREET model for emissions assessments, consistent with many other federal agencies.” The GREET Model was commissioned by the Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory. It considers crops, land uses and carbon reduction practices and is the best available model that recognizes the agriculture industry’s contributions to advancing domestic energy goals. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Would Bring Whole Milk Access to All Schools Senator Roger Marshall this week introduced legislation that amends the Richard Russell National School Lunch Act to allow schools participating in the program to serve whole milk. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans reports that nearly 90 percent of Americans do not meet their daily dairy intake recommendations. The Kansas Republican says, "I truly believe food is medicine, and by increasing kids' access to milk, we will help prevent health complications down the road and encourage nutrient-rich diets for years to come." In 2010, Congress passed the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act which amended nutrition standards in the School Lunch Program. Among the changes, the law mandated that flavored milk must be fat-free within the program. In May of 2017, USDA announced a rule that allowed schools to receive waivers for low-fat flavored milk, rather than only fat-free. Leading nutritionists have found that whole dairy fats have no negative effect on a diet, and may even reduce risk of heart disease. *********************************************************************************** CRP Reaches 22 Million Acres in 2022 USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that in 2022, Conservation Reserve Program acreage rose to 22 million acres. USDA's Conservation Reserve Program was established by Congress in 1985. By 1986, the program began to use contracts to retire highly erodible cropland from crop production for 10–15 years. Enrollment grew quickly, reaching 33 million acres in 1990. After the initial contracts were awarded, program goals expanded to include water quality and wildlife habitat improvements in addition to soil erosion reduction. Between 1990 and 2008, CRP enrollment fluctuated around 33 million acres before falling to a 30-year low in 2021. Annual enrollment caps for eligible land are set at each iteration of the Farm Bill. Earlier this week, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced USDA would accept more than one million acres from the signup period this year. Offers for new land in the general signup totaled about 295,000 acres. Producers submitted re-enrollment offers for about 891,000 expiring acres. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeks Fiscal Year 2024 Suggestions for Plant Protection Projects USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service seeks input for fiscal year 2024 Plant Protection Act funding to protect American agriculture and natural resources. The open period for submitting suggestions for Plant Pest and Disease Management and Disaster Prevention Program funding runs through August 9, 2023. APHIS will provide $75 million in plant protection funding for the projects, including at least $7.5 million for projects under the National Clean Plant Network. APHIS will set aside up to $4 million in funding to support Tribes, Tribal organizations and universities, as well as other minority-affiliated organizations. Under the Plant Pest and Disease Management and Disaster Prevention Program, APHIS provides funding to its partners to help them safeguard against, detect, and respond to invasive plant pests and diseases. Climate change has increased the level of plant pest infestations and disease infection, allowed pests to produce more generations each year, and extended the suitable habitat for plant pests. To submit suggestions, visit www.aphis.usda.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 15, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. retail sales in May and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor, followed by a report on U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m. and USDA's Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Outlook comes out at 2 p.m. Traders will continue to keep close track of the latest weather forecasts. Weather A front that has remained stalled across the southern tier of the country with active weather continues to be active on Thursday. Clusters of strong to severe storms will again be possible near the Gulf Coast while a more significant severe threat exists in the Southern Plains, including the word derecho. More areas of showers and thunderstorms will spread north through the rest of the Plains and Canadian Prairies, being heavier in Alberta and easing drought concerns there. Some needed showers will go through eastern areas of the Midwest as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 14, 2023 |

USDA Enrolls Over One Million Acres in CRP Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says that USDA is accepting over one million acres in this year’s Conservation Reserve Program general signup. This is one of several signups that the Farm Service Agency is holding for the program. The results of CRP’s general signup reflect the continued importance of the program as a tool to help producers invest in the long-term health, sustainability, and profitability of their land and resources. Offers for new land in the general signup totaled about 295,000 acres nationwide. Producers submitted re-enrollment offers for about 891,000 expiring acres, reflecting the success of participating in CRP for the long term. The total number of acres will climb when FSA accepts acres from the Grassland CRP signup that closed on May 26. Producers will still need to develop a conservation plan before contracts go into effect on October 1. The number of accepted acres will be confirmed later this year. *********************************************************************************** Over $700 Million Available to Expand Rural Internet Access USDA is making $714 million dollars in grants and loans available to connect thousands of rural residents, farmers, and business owners to reliable high-speed internet. “High-speed internet is a key to prosperity for people who live and work in rural communities,” says USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. “With this funding, we can ensure that rural communities have the internet connectivity needed to continue expanding the rural economy to make sure it’s a place of opportunity to live, work, and raise a family.” The announcement includes $714 million available for investments in 19 states, including Arizona, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, and several others. USDA continues connecting more and more people to high-speed internet in this fourth funding round of the ReConnect Program. The department has invested in a total of 142 ReConnect projects that will bring high-speed internet access to 314,000 rural Americans. More information on rural investment resources is available at rd.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Food Prices Rise Slightly in May After two straight months of flat food prices, the cost of food increased slightly during May. Overall food prices rose 0.2 percent from April to May. The New York Times says U.S. grocery prices rose 0.1 percent in May, up from April, when prices dropped 0.2 percent. The price of food at restaurants continued climbing, up 0.5 percent during the month. Food prices are rising at a slightly slower rate than they were during recent months but are still much higher than the prices were before COVID-19. Food prices have risen 6.7 percent higher during the past 12 months. After rising 0.5 percent in April, fruit and vegetable prices rose 1.3 percent in May. The index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs dropped 1.2 percent during May after dropping 0.3 percent in April. The price of eggs dropped almost 14 percent, the largest drop in that index since January 1951. *********************************************************************************** NCGA Leadership Academy Applications Are Now Open Applications for the National Corn Growers Association’s Leadership Academy Class are now open. The program is designed to bring together a diverse group of grower-leaders who want to improve their ability to serve their state organizations, enhance their communication skills, and understand the important role of advocacy – all to advance the priorities of the nation’s corn growers and build the next generation of industry leaders. Through the program, NCGA members are empowered to pursue their leadership journey and utilize their skills to inspire others to act. The 2023-2024 class will meet in St. Louis, Missouri from August 7-9, for sessions on leadership, communication, and personal branding. The class then comes together in Washington, D.C., from January 22-24, 2024, for advocacy training. NCGA puts on the program with help from sponsors like UPL and FMC. First launched in 2019, the NCGA Leadership Academy has become the organization’s primary leadership development tool. *********************************************************************************** Concerns Remain at West Coast Ports Agricultural exporters are paying close attention to contract negotiations at the nation’s West Coast ports. The Pacific Maritime Association is accusing workers of deliberately slowing down operations. The union says that’s not happening. The association says terminal operations at the Port of Seattle halted over the weekend. Capital Press says International Longshore and Warehouse Union President Willie Adams points out that the West Coast ports are open while negotiations continue. Over 22,000 workers at 29 ports on the West Coast are working without a contract and have done so since July 1, 2022, and negotiations have lasted 13 months. During the last lengthy negotiations as recently as 2015, farm goods were delayed in getting shipped out. “We aren’t hearing about delays yet,” says Washington Potato Commission director of government affairs Matt Harris. “That doesn’t mean it can’t happen, and it would potentially disrupt the export growth that we’re trying to achieve.” *********************************************************************************** Soybean Stocks Rise Higher in June The Economic Research Service issued its June Oil Crops Outlook that predicted higher soybean ending stocks for the month. A higher carryover raised the 2023-2024 U.S. soybean ending stocks forecast by 15 million bushels to 350 million bushels. The increase in expected carryover stocks is due to a reduced 2022-2023 soybean export forecast from 2.01 billion bushels to two billion bushels on strong foreign competition. Despite an unchanged soybean crush volume in June, the higher extraction rates increased U.S. soybean meal supply. With higher supply and lower domestic demand, soybean meal exports for the 2022-2023 marketing year increased this month by 0.2 million short tons to 14 million short tons. The 2023-2024 global soybean ending stocks are estimated higher this month at 123.3 million metric tons on increased carryover from 2022-2023 and reduced crush in Argentina. Reduced soybean meal supplies in Argentina are partially offset by Brazil’s higher soybean meal exports.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 14, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department will release its May report of producer prices at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by weekly energy inventories at 9:30 a.m. from the Energy Department. Many will tune in at 1 p.m. to see if the Federal Reserve raises the federal funds rate target or not, followed by a press conference for Fed Chairman Jerome Powell. The Environmental Protection Agency was supposed to announce final renewable volume obligations for biofuels Wednesday, but postponed the deadline one week to June 21. Weather remains the main attraction for grain traders. Weather A disturbance moving along an old frontal boundary will continue to create widespread areas of showers and thunderstorms from the southeastern Plains through the Southeast on Wednesday. Conditions favor some strong thunderstorms with potential for significant severe weather. All hazards are possible out of these storms. Meanwhile, another system is moving into the Canadian Prairies with promises for heavier rain in dry parts of Alberta. The front to that system will move into Montana with scattered showers later in the day.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 13, 2023 |

Farm Credit System Issues Ag Economic and Outlook Report The Farm Credit Administration board received a quarterly report on economic issues affecting agriculture recently. According to the report, inflation remains elevated in certain sectors of the economy despite interest rate hikes and supply chain improvements. For agriculture, drought has declined substantially across the western half of the country, and good spring weather conditions sped up planting progress for many crops. For several states in the Great Plains and Southwest, drought conditions will need to continue to be monitored. With strong prospects for large crops and the building of grain stocks in 2023, prices have weakened. While many input costs also have fallen, crop producers are likely facing tighter margins this year. Because of rising interest rates and seasonal lending fluctuations, Farm Credit System growth was slower in the first quarter of 2023 than it was for the same quarter the previous three years. The loan portfolio continued to perform well, but nonperforming assets increased. Despite the increase, the overall level of nonperforming assets remained low, at 0.53 percent of loans outstanding and other property owned. *********************************************************************************** Safe American Food Exports Act Introduced Lawmakers Monday introduced the Safe American Food Exports Act. The legislation would codify USDA’s role in negotiating regionalization agreements that allow livestock, poultry, and other animal products from unaffected areas of the country to continue to be safely exported in the event of an animal disease outbreak. Although USDA already works with the U.S. Trade Representative to develop the agreements, the legislation explicitly expresses congressional support for establishing regionalization agreements and promoting robust agricultural trade policies before any animal disease impacts the nation. Representative Randy Feenstra, an Iowa Republican, and Jimmy Panetta, A California Democrat, introduced the legislation in the House of Representatives. Feenstra says, “Like every producer fears, foreign animal disease can devastate flocks and herds, preventing our farmers from selling their high-quality product on the global market.” Feenstra says his bill ensures a disease outbreak in one part of the country does not impact other regions' ability to produce and export agricultural goods. *********************************************************************************** Canada Canola Council Supports Canada Joining USMCA Dispute Settlement The Canola Council of Canada supports the Government of Canada in joining the dispute settlement consultation with Mexico on agricultural biotechnology. The consultation was initiated by the United States under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, and Canada joined today as a third party. There have been challenges to regulatory predictability in Mexico over the last few years, according to Canola Council. Regulatory approaches not grounded in sound science risk stifling access to innovations that farmers need to contribute to food security challenges, address climate-related production issues, and remain competitive and profitable. Canola Council of Canada President Jim Everson says, “It is essential that Canada's trading partners support and implement science-based regulatory systems.” Everson says more formal and substantive assurance is required to provide clarity and certainty about the regulatory approach moving forward. Mexico is a leading and valued market for Canadian canola and is Canada's largest agri-food export to that country, valued at $1.6 billion in 2022. *********************************************************************************** USDA Welcomes 2023 Tribal College Fellows to Washington, D.C. The Department of Agriculture Monday welcomed five faculty and staff from tribal colleges and universities and one state land-grant university to learn about USDA. The visitors are learning about research opportunities, programs, and services through The Tribal Fellowship. The program is part of USDA’s commitment to remove barriers to service for tribal nations. The Tribal Fellowship Program is administered by USDA’s Office of Tribal Relations. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, "Tribal colleges are anchors in their communities, and these fellowships enhance the collaborations between tribal nations and USDA." The fellows will participate in intensive cross-training with USDA program leaders across the Department to identify areas for collaboration. At a later date, select fellows will spend a week at a USDA Agricultural Research Service research facility to collaborate on research between the tribal colleges and USDA. On their return home, the fellows can share their insights and experiences with students and colleagues in their communities. *********************************************************************************** Rural Social Connections Draw Healthcare Professionals The availability of healthcare professionals in rural areas lags that of urban areas, partly because of difficulties in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. USDA's Economic Research Service reports that when choosing rural locations to practice, healthcare professionals most often cite social aspects, such as the friendliness of the town, as an important factor in their decision. Similar factors come into play when these professionals choose to stay in their rural small towns. Other factors that reflect the importance of social relationships included being a good place to raise a family, having relatives or friends living nearby, familiarity with the area, the quality of professional contacts, and if the professional's family was settled in the town. Other factors, such as the quality of the medical community, the quality of schools, and opportunities for professional growth, also were cited as important. USDA compiled the data for its Healthcare Professionals Seek Social Connections When Moving to Rural Towns publication. *********************************************************************************** Demand Pushing Gas Prices Higher After falling last week, the nation’s average price of gasoline rebounded, rising 5.6 cents from a week ago to $3.57 per gallon. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “The good news has continued for average diesel prices, which again fell last week to their lowest since early 2022, helping to relieve some pressure on hard-hit consumers of diesel.” The national average diesel price fell 1.6 cents in the last week and stands at $3.87 per gallon. Diesel prices at the top ten percent of stations in the country average $4.91 per gallon, while the bottom ten percent average $3.17 per gallon. While oil prices had rallied last week on OPEC+’s production cuts announced for 2024 and Saudi Arabia’s July cut of 1 million barrels, markets are still jittery over the potential for more rate hikes amidst stubborn inflation and banking sector challenges. In addition, Goldman Sachs cut its price forecast for crude by nearly ten percent as it sees Russian supply recovering.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 13, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for May will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday and the Federal Reserve will begin its two-day meeting with a rate announcement due out Wednesday at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to keep close watch on the latest forecasts and will consider USDA's latest crop ratings from Monday afternoon. Weather A system wrapped up in the Great Lakes will bring scattered showers to some areas that missed out over the weekend on Tuesday. The front to that system has settled across the South, which will remain active today, potentially with more severe weather and heavy rainfall.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |

Despite WOTUS Loss at Supreme Court, EPA Continues Fight for Biden Rule LINCOLN, Neb. (DTN) -- Despite a significant loss in the Supreme Court that likely will require the EPA to rewrite the Biden administration's waters of the U.S. rule, the agency on Monday filed an appeal seeking review of a preliminary injunction against the rule in 24 states. The Supreme Court on May 26 sided with Michael and Chantell Sackett in their ongoing wetlands battle with the EPA. In particular, the court ruled the agency has no legal basis to use the so-called significant-nexus test when making Clean Water Act determinations. The significant-nexus test is the backbone of the Biden administration's rule, meaning the administration likely has no choice but to withdraw and rewrite the rule. On the same day as the court's ruling, the Biden administration asked for and received an extension to June 29 of a court deadline in the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota. That court issued a preliminary injunction, stopping the EPA from enforcing the rule in 24 states. On Monday, the EPA filed an appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit in St. Louis, Missouri, asking for review of the preliminary injunction. So far, the Biden administration has given no indication of its intentions with the WOTUS rule. That injunction is in effect in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. The Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the significant-nexus test used by the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was illegal. EPA Administrator Michael Regan issued a statement following the court's ruling, saying in part the decision "erodes longstanding clean water protections." Regan added, "The Biden-Harris administration has worked to establish a durable definition of 'waters of the United States' that safeguards our nation's waters, strengthens economic opportunity, and protects people's health while providing the clarity and certainty that farmers, ranchers, and landowners deserve. These goals will continue to guide the agency forward as we carefully review the Supreme Court decision and consider next steps." The Sackett case is considered by many experts to be a turning point in determining the reach of the Clean Water Act. Writing the majority opinion in the May 26 ruling, Justice Samuel Alito said the CWA's reach was far narrower than EPA and the Corps of Engineers have interpreted for years. "The EPA, however, offers only a passing attempt to square its interpretation with the text and its 'significant nexus' theory is particularly implausible," Alito wrote. He said the definition of waters of the U.S. is more limited. "And, in any event, the CWA never mentions the 'significant nexus' test, so the EPA has no statutory basis to impose it," Alito stated. The Sacketts have been battling EPA since 2007 for the right to build on land the agency has deemed to be a wetland. Their property sits on a lakefront and they've argued that there is no surface connection between the lake and their land.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |

USDA Releases June WASDE Report USDA Friday released the June World Agricultural Supply and Demand Report. The forecast includes a decline in exports for corn and soybeans. The 2023/24 U.S. corn outlook is little changed from last month with increases to both beginning and ending stocks. Corn area and yield forecasts are unchanged. The season-average farm price received by producers is unchanged at $4.80 per bushel. This month’s U.S. soybean supply and use projections include higher beginning and ending stocks. Higher beginning stocks reflect reduced exports for 2022/23, down 15 million bushels to 2.0 billion based on lower-than-expected shipments in May and competition from South America. The soybean price is forecast at $12.10 per bushel, unchanged from last month. The outlook for wheat this month projects larger supplies, unchanged domestic use and exports, and higher stocks. The 2023/24 season-average farm price is lowered $0.30 per bushel to $7.70 on larger U.S. and foreign wheat supplies. *********************************************************************************** Commodity Groups Oppose OFF Act A coalition of 18 commodity groups recently voiced opposition to the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming, or OFF Act, in a letter to leadership of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees. If enacted, the groups say the legislation would substantially undermine their members’ ability to promote U.S. agriculture- and natural resource-based commodity products. The Trade Associations represent American farmers, ranchers, foresters, and processors of raw materials. The letter states, “Each of these industries plays a critical and irreplaceable role in the U.S. economy through the production of food, fiber, and other essential goods—all while creating jobs, stewarding resources, and supporting local communities across the country.” Proponents of the bill argue this legislation would increase transparency and close perceived loopholes in the statutes enabling checkoff programs. However, the commodity groups charge, “The bill would not create any new checks and balances to ensure compliance and fairness.” The groups urge lawmakers to oppose the legislation. *********************************************************************************** New USDA Tool Available for Small Businesses A new tool from the Department of Agriculture seeks to help industry and small disadvantaged entities identify potential opportunities for selling their products and services to the department. USDA's Procurement Forecast lists the types of anticipated solicitations that small businesses, small, disadvantaged businesses, women-owned businesses, HUBZone businesses, service-disabled veterans, and other businesses may be able to participate in contracts with USDA, or through subcontracting opportunities. USDA has eleven organizations that issue solicitations for anticipated purchases tied to the procurement forecast. Using the tool, interested parties can search USDA's procurement forecasts, filter the results, manipulate the display and download the results. Currently, forecast data for Fiscal years 2023 to 2025 is available. The effort complies with the Business Opportunity Development Reform Act of 1988, which amended the Small Business Act to place new emphasis on acquisition planning. The law requires agencies to compile and make available small business contracting opportunities. To learn more, visit usda.gov/procurement-forecast. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Dairy Industry Grants The U.S. Department of Agriculture last week announced $23 million in grant funding for the dairy industry. The funding is available to support processing capacity expansion, on-farm improvements, and technical assistance services to producers through the Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives. The Dairy Business Innovation Initiatives provide valuable technical assistance and subgrants to dairy farmers and businesses across their regions, supporting them with business plan development, marketing, and branding, as well as increasing access to innovative production and processing techniques to support the development of value-added products. The funds will be awarded noncompetitively to the current initiatives at the California State University Fresno, the University of Tennessee, Vermont Agency of Agriculture - Food & Markets, and the University of Wisconsin. Through the Request for Applications, the initiatives will have an opportunity to submit proposals for this year’s funding. Dairy farmers and businesses interested in the program must contact the appropriate initiative to be considered for direct technical assistance or a subaward. *********************************************************************************** Survey Details Farmland Ownership in Iowa As the average age of Iowa's farmland owners continues to rise, other trends in landownership have begun to emerge. According to an Iowa State University study, 58 percent of Iowa's farmland is now leased out, a significant increase from the last time the same study was conducted in 2017. An Iowa State researcher says, “This represents a relative increase of roughly one million acres over five years, which is quite significant.” Conducted by Iowa State since the 1940s, the Iowa Farmland Ownership and Tenure Survey--completed every five years--focuses on forms of ownership, tenancy and transfer of farmland in Iowa, and characteristics of landowners. Farmland leases also increasingly favor cash rent over crop sharing and owner-operating arrangements. In 2017, 82 percent of leased farmland was cash rented, but cash rent, predominantly fixed-cash rental contracts, now account for 87 percent of leased land. The survey found that the average age of Iowa's farmland owners is still increasing. *********************************************************************************** SNAP Online Purchasing Now Available in All 50 States Online purchasing using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits is now available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The expansion represents a major milestone in the history of SNAP and continues to provide greater convenience and access to healthy food options for tens of millions of Americans. Alaska recently became 50th state to join the steady expansion since USDA first launched SNAP online purchasing four years ago as a pilot in New York. The availability of online purchasing in Alaska is an important step in promoting equity and access to food in remote and rural areas. The Department of Agriculture has been expanding the SNAP online purchasing pilot by approving and adding additional retailers. Since March 2020, 208 additional retailer chains have joined the program, representing thousands of actual stores. USDA’s Stacy Dean says, “Expanding the diversity and reach of SNAP online shopping helps advance our goal of modernizing SNAP and providing better access to healthy, safe, affordable foods.”

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Rain Systems, Grain Mergers and Trade Disputes OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of June 11. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Weather systems get active: A persistent upper-level ridge of high pressure has dominated Canada for quite some time now, putting a lid on the jet stream and directing it northward. That has kept conditions rather stagnant for the last several weeks, focusing rain into the Plains states instead of the Corn Belt. DTN meteorologists expect that ridge to fall apart, creating a more "active" weather pattern that should gin up thunderstorms across more of the U.S. in the coming weeks. 2. Brazil corn crop in crosshairs: USDA raised Brazil's current corn production expectations by 2 million metric tons in its June 9 report. But cool weather and frost potential looms, potentially taming those yield increases. We'll keep an eye on temperatures and weather reports from that country. 3. Grain mergers: We'll be continuing to follow the commentary around the proposed merger of grain giants Viterra and Bunge. Already the Wheat Growers Association in Canada has expressed concern over the grain sourcing share the combined company would have. 4. Cattle under stress: Whether hot and dry, or torrential storms, the coming weather patterns are adding to livestock stress. Watch for our coverage on what to look for, and what to do, if conditions get tough on your herd. 5. Reports to watch: This week sees a number of market-critical commodity and economic reports that we'll either be reporting on directly or including in our commentary and analysis through the week. Monday we'll have USDA's weekly grain export inspections and the Crop Progress report. Tuesday sees the U.S. consumer price index for May announced at 7:30 a.m. CDT, and the Federal Reserve begins its two-day meeting. Wednesday we'll have the U.S. producer prices for May, the Energy Department's weekly inventory and a Fed rate announcement at 1 p.m. CDT. Thursday's news is packed with government reports: The USDA weekly export sales report, weekly U.S. jobless claims, U.S. retail sales and another update of U.S. Drought Monitor -- all at 7:30 a.m. U.S. industrial production rings in at 8:15 a.m., followed by U.S. Energy Department's natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. and the USDA Livestock, Dairy and Poultry outlook at 2 p.m. All times CDT. Friday sees that latest U.S. index of consumer sentiment at 9 a.m.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 12, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will pay close attention to observed rainfall amounts, coverage and the latest forecasts. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Outside markets will be aware of the Federal Reserve's next rate announcement on Wednesday. Weather A system that went through over the weekend is wrapping up in the Great Lakes Monday where showers are dwindling but remaining possible. The front to the system has settled across the South where showers and thunderstorms will be active throughout the day, including chances for severe weather and heavy rainfall. Cooler temperatures have settled into much of the country, but it is warmer in the Canadian Prairies again.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 9, 2023 |

Clean Fuels, RFS Stakeholders Send Letter to President Biden on RFS BBD Volumes Clean Fuels Alliance America and 75 industry stakeholders delivered a letter to President Joe Biden on Thursday. The letter urges the president to ensure that the Environmental Protection Agency substantially increases the biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels volumes in the Renewable Fuel Standards for 2023, 2024 and 2025. The letter points out that EPA's proposed volumes fall far below the industry's current production and, if finalized, would undermine investments in the industry's expansion. EPA is expected to finalize the RFS volumes by June 14. The letter states, "The low volumes threaten the ability of new market sectors, like marine and aviation, to decarbonize in the near term." Clean Fuels was joined in the letter by several national industry associations and their members, including American Soybean Association, 22 state soybean associations, Diesel Technology Forum, National Energy and Fuels Institute, National Oilseed Processors Association, North American Renderers Association, and U.S. Canola Association. *********************************************************************************** Study Shows Emissions-Reducing Benefits of E15 A new study from the University of California – Riverside shows that the E15 ethanol blend provides notable emissions reductions compared to California's regular reformulated gasoline. The Renewable Fuels Association hailed the report as proof of the value of E15 for The Golden State, which has yet to allow the E15 blend to be used. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, “This new study shows what we've been arguing all along--that E15 offers emissions benefits that would help meet environmental goals in California.” According to the study, emissions of total hydrocarbons, non-methane hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide all showed either marginally or statistically significant reductions for E15 compared to regular California gasoline. In addition, particulate matter and solid particle number emissions dropped substantially with E15, and E15 showed lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions savings when compared to E10. Nitrogen oxide emissions when using E15 showed marginal reductions in many cases, but the changes in Nitrogen oxide emissions were not statistically significant. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Board of Directors Approves Comprehensive Farm Bill Recommendations The National Milk Producers Federation this week approved a suite of farm bill policy priorities covering the commodities, conservation, trade, and nutrition titles. In the Commodities title, NMPF seeks to build on its successes in the last farm bill to strengthen the dairy safety net and provide producers with access to a range of risk management tools. NMPF’s board voted to support continuing the Dairy Margin Coverage safety net while updating the program’s production history calculation. NMPF seeks farm bill language to direct USDA to conduct mandatory plant cost studies every two years to provide better data to inform future make allowance reviews. This would complement the near-term make allowance update NMPF is pursuing through its Federal Milk Marketing Order initiative via the USDA hearing process announced last week. Similarly, the board also pursues restoring the previous “higher of” Class I mover in the most expeditious manner possible, either administratively via the FMMO process or legislatively through the farm bill, in which the mover was last changed in 2018. *********************************************************************************** R-CALF Opposes Paraguayan Beef Import Proposal In comments submitted to the Department of Agriculture, R-CALF USA requested the agency immediately withdraw its proposal to allow the importation of fresh beef from Paraguay. Historically, the United States has not engaged in trade of beef from Paraguay because APHIS has considered Paraguay to be a country affected with foot-and-mouth disease. The government of Paraguay has requested that the U.S. allow fresh Paraguayan beef to be imported into the United States. In response to this request, APHIS conducted a risk analysis, with the most recent on-site visit to Paraguay being nearly ten years ago, in 2014. The USDA has proposed a rule seeking to allow the importation of fresh beef from Paraguay. In its comments, R-CALF USA urged APHIS to withdraw its proposed rule on the grounds that it will cause an unnecessary and avoidable risk of introducing FMD into the United States, and subject U.S. consumers to beef from cattle that were not raised in compliance with United States' more stringent production standards. *********************************************************************************** Nebraska Farm Bureau Working with SpaceX to Expand Broadband Nebraska Farm Bureau is working with SpaceX’s Starlink to expand broadband access in the state. Mark McHargue, Nebraska Farm Bureau president, says, “We are excited to work with Starlink to deliver high speed broadband to rural areas in Nebraska that are underserved.” Starlink is engineered and operated by SpaceX. Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency broadband internet capable of streaming, online gaming, video calls, and more to users worldwide. While the carriers, providers, and telecoms continue to grapple with federal and state monies to get quality broadband to rural areas of the country, Starlink and NEFB thought it was important to take this broadband service issue into our own hands and deliver the connectivity to our farm, ranch, and rural members in a way that avoids the regulatory hoops and the high cost of getting fiber to the "last mile.” Nebraska Farm Bureau members can take advantage of this new member benefit by visiting the Nebraska Farm Bureau website at nefb.org. *********************************************************************************** United States Serves up Large Chunks of Cheese to Top Destinations In 2022, the United States exported more than 450,000 metric tons of cheese, valued at approximately $2.3 billion. USDA’s Economic Research Service reports that top export markets include Mexico, South Korea, Japan, Australia, and Canada. U.S. cheese is a mainstay among imported cheeses in these countries. In 2022, U.S. cheese accounted for nearly one-fifth of cheese imported by Canada and Japan by value and nearly one-fourth of cheese imported by Australia. More than 43 percent of cheese shipped to South Korea originated from the United States. U.S. cheese dominates the import market in Mexico, with 87 percent of Mexico's cheese imports coming from the United States in 2022. Altogether, these five countries have accounted for nearly two-thirds of U.S. cheese exports since 2019, and U.S. cheese constitutes about a third of the value of all cheese imported by these five markets combined. Free trade agreements have partially supported U.S. cheese exports to each of these markets, including the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 9, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's WASDE and Crop Production reports for June are due out at 11 a.m. CDT Friday with coverage on DTN following the reports. DTN's WASDE webinar starts at 12:30 p.m. The latest weather forecasts continue to capture attention with much of the Midwest in dire need of rain after Thursday's Drought Monitor showed worsening conditions. Weather Isolated showers will be possible yet again for the Plains on Friday, mostly due to a stalled front from north to southeast in the region. But a cold front is sweeping into the Northern Plains and the combination of the two fronts should give rise to more widespread showers there through Friday night.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 8, 2023 |

Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act Moves Out of Committee The Committee on Education and the Workforce this week voted to advance a bill restoring whole milk in schools. The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023 highlights milk's health benefits and nutrients to young Americans, including better bone health, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease or Type 2 diabetes. According to the most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans, milk is a source of three out of four under-consumed nutrients – calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. The bill would allow for unflavored and flavored whole milk to be offered in school cafeterias. Representative Glenn “GT” Thompson, a Pennsylvania Republican and Chair of the House Agriculture Committee, says, “For too long, milk has been demonized, depriving a generation of students of 13 essential nutrients that are key to their overall health and academic success.” *********************************************************************************** NPPC Speaks Up on Policy Priorities at World Pork Expo The National Pork Producers Council hosted a policy panel this week at the 2023 World Pork Expo. NPPC board officers and experts discussed the pork industry’s current priorities vital to protecting producers’ livelihoods and ensuring pork production remains a pillar of the U.S. economy. NPPC President Scott Hays says, “Advocating for reasonable public policy, expanding exports, protecting our animals from foreign animal diseases and defending efforts to restrict what we do all help keep our farms successful.” Preparing for and preventing foreign animal diseases, addressing the agricultural labor shortage, and increasing pork exports are some of the top public-policy issues for pork producers. NPPC CEO Bryan Humphreys commented that recent policy successes and disappointments will impact producers for years to come. With the Supreme Court’s decision upholding California Proposition 12, another NPPC priority is working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture to ensure a smooth transition for farmers and consumers who want to continue buying pork at California grocery stores and restaurants. *********************************************************************************** Office of Small Farms Establishment Act Introduced in House and Senate New legislation introduced this week would increase support for farmers, ranchers, and foresters with small-acreage operations across the country. The Office of Small Farms Establishment Act would create a new office within USDA. The office would ensure that small-acreage operations have equitable access to the critical federal programs that provide farm loans, conservation funding, and crop insurance. New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker introduced the bill in the Senate, and Democrat Representatives Marilyn Strickland of Washington, Alma Adams of North Caroline and Jim McGovern introduced the bill in the House. Small farms are essential to local and regional food supply chains, bolstering rural economic vitality, food security, and community resilience, according to the lawmakers. Although they only cover eight percent of agricultural land, they are responsible for 20 percent of all agricultural sales. American Farmland Trust supports the legislation, as a spokesperson for the organization says, “This bill is really about ensuring equitable access to the full range of essential support” for farmers. *********************************************************************************** Avian Flu Losses in 2022 Impact on Consumer Prices USDA’s Economic Research Service reports frozen wholesale turkey breast prices climbed abruptly in response to the 2022 avian flu outbreak. Before the outbreak started in February 2022, both frozen whole bird and wholesale turkey breast prices had been increasing gradually. Cumulative losses because of avian flu surpassed seven million turkeys, and breast prices peaked at $2.98 per pound in the week ending October 7, 2022. Prices remained elevated for the remainder of the year. Once reports of new outbreaks slowed in mid-December 2022, whole turkey hen prices leveled off. At the same time, breast prices declined, averaging $2.34 per pound in the week ending April 28, 2023. This is $0.32 higher than a similar week in 2022, but down $0.64 from the peak price last year. Divergence in prices between frozen turkey breast meat and whole bird prices is, in part, explained by seasonality. Demand for whole birds is much more seasonal than wholesale demand for turkey breast meat. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Board of Directors Names Gregg Doud New President and CEO The National Milk Producers Federation's Board of Directors unanimously voted to name Gregg Doud as its next president and CEO. Doud will follow Jim Mulhern, who announced his retirement at the end of the year earlier this week. NMPF board chairman Randy Mooney says, “Dairy farmers across the nation are pleased to endorse a true champion of agriculture, someone who both understands the hard work we do and the opportunities and challenges we face both here and abroad.” Doud has served in numerous leadership roles in trade associations and government work in his more than 30-year career in agricultural policy and economics, most recently at Aimpoint Research. From 2018 to 2021, he served as Chief Agricultural Negotiator for the U.S. Office of the Trade Representative. Doud will begin official work at NMPF in September as its chief operating officer before assuming the role of president and CEO upon Mulhern’s retirement. *********************************************************************************** Teachers Share FFA and Agricultural Opportunities Teachers around the country are sharing the word about agriculture and agricultural education. More than 70 agricultural education teachers are sharing the message of agriculture as part of the National Teacher Ambassadors for FFA program. The program began in 2016 and provides teachers with the tools to share information about FFA and agricultural education with their communities. Teachers selected for the program receive intensive training in June and July to learn and collaborate on educational resources. Similar to last year, this year’s training will be virtual. Throughout the year, the ambassadors will present workshops and work with teachers nationwide to brainstorm and share ideas. The ambassadors will also serve as a voice of the organization to teachers. FFA senior educational consultant Sarah Dickinson says, “Through this program, we equip teachers with the tools they need to be successful in not only developing future leaders but also in telling their stories.”

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 8, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage will be out at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to pay close attention to the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front is backing its way westward through the Corn Belt with a string of showers that continues on Thursday. Some locally heavy amounts remain possible from that. A cold front that is sagging through the Canadian Prairies will be another area of isolated showers into Montana. Parts of the Southern Plains may also see some isolated showers as well. Cooler temperatures continue to settle into the Midwest, easing drought stress.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 7, 2023 |

Farmer Sentiment Sours as Crop Prices Decline Producer sentiment fell to its weakest reading since July 2022, as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Index declined 19 points to 104 in May. This month's weak sentiment reading was fueled by declines in both of the barometer’s sub-indices. The Index of Future Expectations declined 22 points to 98, while the Index of Current Conditions fell 13 points below a month earlier to 116. Crop price weakness helped trigger the sentiment decline. Eastern Corn Belt fall delivery bids for corn fell over $0.50 per bushel, down ten percent, and soybean bids declined over $1.00 per bushel, down eight percent. Nearly half of producers feel that the most important aspect of new Farm Bill legislation will be the Crop Insurance Title, while a fourth of producers say the Commodity Title will be the most important. Almost half of corn and soybean producers expect Congress to raise PLC reference prices for both crops when a new Farm Bill becomes law. *********************************************************************************** Barchart Releases 2023 Crop Production and Yield Estimates Barchart Tuesday released their initial 2023 crop production and yield forecasts for U.S. corn and soybeans. The report indicates a cutback to USDA’s projected figures from the May 12 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Report. The Barchart forecast calls for 15 billion bushels of corn production, compared to USDA’s 15.3 billion. Corn yield is projected at 177.9 bushels per acre, compared to USDA’s 181.5. Soybean production is forecasted at 4.4 billion bushels, compared to USDA’s 3.5 billion. Soybean yield is projected by Barchart at 50.6 bushels per acre, compared to USDA’s 52 bushels per acre. Barchart provides market data and services to the global financial, media, and commodity industries. Barchart’s Crop Production and Yield Forecasts provide users with decision-making support for crop marketing and ingredient purchasing ahead of traditional forecasts from the USDA. Bi-weekly crop production forecasts are available to the public for free, while enterprise data and cmdtyView Pro clients have access to daily forecast updates. *********************************************************************************** Research: CRP is Regionally Concentrated New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service finds the Conservation Reserve Program is regionally concentrated. The Conservation Reserve Program, or CRP, covered 22 million acres of environmentally sensitive land at the end of fiscal year 2022, with an annual budget of roughly $1.8 billion. This made CRP the USDA's largest single conservation program in terms of spending in FY 2022. Enrollees receive annual and other payments for taking eligible land out of production for at least ten years. Program acreage tends to be concentrated on marginally productive cropland that is susceptible to erosion by wind or rainfall. A large share of CRP land ranges from Texas to Montana across the Great Plains, where rainfall is limited, and much of the land is subject to potentially severe wind erosion. Smaller concentrations of CRP land are found in eastern Washington, southern Iowa, northern Missouri, the Mississippi Delta, southeastern Idaho, and northwestern Utah. *********************************************************************************** Rapid Snowmelt Results in Higher Missouri River Runoff Warm temperatures in the mountainous region of the upper Missouri River Basin has led to a quick melt of the mountain snowpack. The rapid melting combined with precipitation in the western half of the Basin resulted in above-average inflow into the reservoir system. May runoff for the Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 4.9 million acre-feet, 144 percent of average. John Reemus of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says, "With much of the mountain snowpack already melted, the basin will need additional rainfall to continue the trend of above-average runoff." The annual runoff forecast above Sioux City, Iowa, is 26.8 million acre-feet, 104 percent of average. While portions of the Basin received above-normal rainfall, precipitation was below normal during May. Gavins Point Dam releases will provide minimum-service navigation flow support at all four target locations of Sioux City, Omaha, Nebraska City, and Kansas City through the first half of the navigation season which ends on July 1. *********************************************************************************** Corteva, USAID, Announce Support for Ukrainian Farmers Corteva and the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, recently announced a new collaboration to support Ukrainian farmers. Through the collaboration, USAID and Corteva Agriscience will advance the shared goals of increasing farmer access to crop inputs, financing, and post-harvest storage. A Corteva spokesperson says, “Ukrainian farmers are entering this planting season facing immense challenges.” Corteva Agriscience, which previously announced its decision to withdraw from Russia, is increasing its production of hybrid corn and sunflower seeds in the region by 30 percent over the next five years. The effort will help ensure a stable supply of seeds for Ukrainian farmers. Corteva is also increasing Ukrainian farmer access to the latest crop protection technologies, agronomic support, and financing tools - all key components required to plant a high-yielding, profitable crop. USAID is advancing the $100 million Agriculture Resilience Initiative (AGRI) - Ukraine to bolster Ukrainian agriculture exports and to help alleviate the global food security crisis exacerbated by the war in Ukraine. *********************************************************************************** Mulhern to Retire as NMPF President and CEO National Milk Producers Federation President and CEO Jim Mulhern announced Tuesday that he will retire at the end of this year. Mulhern will conclude a decade of service leading the organization and capping a 45-year career in U.S. agricultural and dairy policy. Mulhern says, "Directing the policy efforts of the nation's dairy farmers and their cooperatives has been the highlight of my professional career." Mulhern began as President and CEO in 2013 and guided NMPF through two completed farm bills, the COVID-19 crisis, and an ever-quickening pace of change in the industry. After coming to Washington to work on Capitol Hill in 1982, he began his first stint with NMPF in 1985, directing the organization's government affairs activities and shaping NMPF's strategy in the face of earlier farm crises. The topic of naming a new top executive at NMPF will be discussed at NMPF’s Board Meeting this week in Arlington, VA.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday June 7, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will report on the trade deficit for April at 7:30 a.m. CDT and provide export data that will be released by USDA later Wednesday morning. At 9:30 a.m., the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out, including ethanol production. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front continues to push south and west through the Midwest on Wednesday, which is bringing in some cooler air into the region from Canada. It is also bringing some isolated showers on the western half of the front, which are sorely needed but not nearly enough. Additional showers and thunderstorms will move again through the Prairies and Plains to the Gulf Coast as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 6, 2023 |

USDA Kicks Off Agribusiness Trade Mission to Japan USDA Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Undersecretary Alexis Taylor Monday launched an agribusiness trade mission to Japan. The U.S. delegation includes representatives from 11 state departments of agriculture, numerous farm organizations, and 40 agribusinesses looking to connect with future business partners in Japan. Taylor says, "As one of the largest world economies, Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States." Japan is one of the top and most reliable trading partners for the United States. Every year over the past two decades, Japan has imported at least $10 billion worth of U.S. food and agriculture products, reaching a record-high $14.6 billion in 2022. Throughout the week, USDA will help facilitate business-to-business meetings between participating small and medium-sized U.S. agribusinesses and Japanese buyers seeking to import American food and farm products. The trade mission itinerary also includes meetings with Japanese and local government officials and industry groups to discuss trade issues and unique opportunities. *********************************************************************************** AFT Releases White Papers Detailing Farm Bill Recommendations American Farmland Trust Monday released two new white papers that further illustrate its priorities to increase adoption of conservation practices in the next Farm Bill. The priorities include the creation of a federal match to help states and Tribes build up their soil health programs, and increased support for farmer-to-farmer education to accelerate adoption of conservation practices. AFT Policy Director Tim Fink says, “AFT’s is working this Farm Bill to keep land in farming, keep farmers on the land, and to help farmers adopt sound farming practices.” Creating a Federal Match for State and Tribal Soil Health Programs in the Next Farm Bill urges Congress to build up locally-led programs that supplement and fill gaps in NRCS conservation support. Improving On and Increasing Access to Conservation Programs in the Next Farm Bill focuses on how programs can continue their work supporting voluntary, locally-led conservation while ensuring equitable access for farmers. AFT also recommends Congress establish an Office of Small Farms at USDA to support lower-acreage producers. *********************************************************************************** Noble Research Institute Launches Regenerative Ranch Management Program Noble Research Institute Monday announced the launch of its Essentials of Regenerative Ranching program. The effort is designed to help ranchers monitor and improve the health of their land, livestock and livelihood. Essentials provides producers with practical tools, hands-on experience and guidance to break free from the cycle of high inputs and low returns. Farmers and ranchers navigate uncertainty from weather, fluctuating market prices and skyrocketing inputs. Many producers seek new skills and tools that offer greater control and reduce operational uncertainty. While regenerative ranching can help mitigate or avoid some of these issues altogether, ranchers may struggle to find reliable information about implementation or fail to receive support needed for lasting success. In response, Noble Research Institute designed Essentials of Regenerative Ranching to offer farmers and ranchers guidance in using core principles and proven monitoring methods. The first in-person training will be offered July 11-12, 2023, at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. Registration is open now at www.noble.org/. *********************************************************************************** FFA Members Attending Washington Leadership Conference For more than 50 years, thousands of FFA members from across the country have converged in our nation's capital each summer to engage with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects to take back to their cities and towns. National FFA Organization members are in Washington, D.C., this week as part of the National FFA Organization's Washington Leadership Conference. The more than 50-year tradition brings thousands of FFA members to Washington, D.C., to interact with legislators, hone civic engagement and leadership skills, and create community impact projects. More than 2,000 FFA members from throughout the country are expected to attend the 2023 conference. FFA members will spend the week under the guidance of agricultural and leadership professionals, facilitators, and FFA staff. FFA members will also have the unique opportunity to participate in congressional visits with legislators from their states during the week. Members can share concerns and challenges from their communities and discuss agricultural-related legislation. *********************************************************************************** “Natural” Labeled Foods Account for 16% of Consumer Spending New Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows foods labeled “natural” accounted for slightly more than 16 percent of consumer retail food purchases in 2018. USDA and the Food and Drug Administration require producers to adhere to specific standards or processes to use certain label claims, such as USDA Organic. The “natural” claim, however, has minimal requirements and using the claim on a food product’s packaging does not require that the product provide any health or environmental benefits. Regulatory agencies treat the claim as meaning nothing artificial was added, and the product was minimally processed. Even so, consumers sometimes attribute benefits to products labeled "natural," research studies show. The share of products labeled "natural" varies by food category. The share of spending on "natural" products in 2018 was highest for dairy products, at 27.7 percent, and lowest for fruits and vegetables, at 5.9 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively. *********************************************************************************** OPEC Could Derail Fuel Price Declines With the summer driving season now underway, the nation's average price of gasoline declined 3.9 cents from a week ago to $3.51 per gallon. The national average diesel price fell 3.4 cents last week and is $3.88 per gallon. However, GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan warns OPEC could change the course of fuel prices this summer. OPEC+ agreed Sunday to additional production cuts, while Saudi Arabia is going above and beyond and cutting July production. As a result, De Haan says, "oil prices are likely to see upward pressure as global supplies, which have remained tight, promise to become even tighter as a result." Oil prices could rally this week and push fuel prices higher, but De Haan says any rise in average prices should be fairly small. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a 2.3 percent fall last week, with the most common U.S. gas price at $3.39 per gallon.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday June 6, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's Short-term Energy Outlook is due out Tuesday with interest in its estimates of world oil supply and demand after OPEC decided to cut production by one million barrels a day Sunday. There are no other significant reports Tuesday, but traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front is slipping south through the Midwest on Tuesday, with part of it pushing southwestward toward the Plains. The front will be somewhat active with some isolated showers developing along it. Isolated to scattered showers will develop in the Southern Plains to the Gulf Coast as well as the Canadian Prairies.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 5, 2023 |

USTR to Initiate USMCA Dispute Settlement with Mexico The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office announced that it is filing a dispute settlement under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement in response to Mexico’s ban on biotech corn for human consumption. The National Corn Growers Association has called on the administration to act and praised the development. “Mexico’s actions, not based on sound science, have threatened the financial well-being of corn growers and rural communities,” says NCGA President Tom Haag (HAYG). Under the agreement, once a dispute settlement gets filed, a group of objective experts will hear the case and make a final determination based on the commitments of both parties under the free trade agreement. Tai says Mexico’s measures are inconsistent with several of its obligations in the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures and Market Access chapters of the agreement. “The USMCA was written to ensure that all producers in the three countries have full access to each other’s markets,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposes Action Plan to Modernize FMMOs The National Milk Producers Federation applauds USDA for proposing its “Action Plan” for a national hearing based on NMPF’s proposal to modernize Federal Milk Marketing Orders. The federation looks forward to the next phase of creating a federal order system that better reflects today’s market conditions and dairy producer needs. “We’re grateful USDA recognizes the comprehensive nature of our proposal and are looking forward to it being considered in full because the whole of our plan adds up to more than the sum of its parts,” says NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “We held more than 150 meetings and wide consultation across dairy producers and the entire industry in coming up with our plan.” The agency says the action plan may include a tentative hearing start date of August 23, 2023. The USDA received the federation’s formal proposal to amend the pricing provisions of all 11 FMMOs on May 2. *********************************************************************************** USB CEO Ruhland Stepping Down Polly Ruhland, CEO of the United Soybean Board, will leave her position effective December 31, 2023. Ruhland has led the organization for six years and played a pivotal role in driving significant organizational changes and setting a foundation for USB’s future. “Polly has been a visionary leader for USB during a very transformative time,” says Meagan Kaiser, USB Chair. “A true servant-leader, her biggest contribution and lasting legacy is building a first-class staff that we can rely on.” During the past six years, USB embarked on a transformative journey marked by numerous accomplishments and milestones, including developing and implementing a comprehensive strategic plan. The plan also reinforced USB’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and market development. Kaiser will form a search committee to identify a new Chief Executive Officer. The committee will begin the search after USB’s July board meeting to have a new CEO in place by the end of 2023. *********************************************************************************** Senate Ag Chair Comments on Debt Agreement Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow of Michigan was pleased that the Senate voted to pass the bipartisan bill to avoid a debt default, calling it critical for our economy and families. “I’m pleased this agreement protects the important steps that we’ve taken over the last two years to rebuild America, bring jobs home, lower the costs of health care, and tackle the climate crisis,” Stabenow says. Stabenow also says she’s deeply disappointed by the changes that were agreed to in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. “As the Ag, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee Chair, I intend to produce a bipartisan farm bill that protects critical nutrition and food assistance programs for all Americans,” she said. “And as far as I’m concerned, the work requirements issue is settled for this Congress.” She intends to in no way further erode the dignity of Americans who need roughly $6 a day to buy food. *********************************************************************************** Milk Producers Oppose Shortsighted Infant Formula Legislation The National Milk Producers Federation strongly opposes legislation introduced in both chambers of Congress that would increase U.S. vulnerability to infant formula supply disruptions. The bill would increase U.S. reliance on imported formula and formula inputs. It would also unilaterally and permanently remove tariffs and tariff rate quotas on infant formula and infant formula base powder, resulting in lost jobs and foreign dependence. “This bill puts in place new one-way street trade conditions that would harm dairy farmers, cooperatives, and processors,” says Jim Mulhern, NMPF president and CEO. “We vehemently object to putting unilateral import expansion on the backs of U.S. dairy farmers.” The organization says the bill is a misguided response to the dire shortages of infant formula that occurred last year after a temporary production crisis at a large U.S. formula manufacturing plant. The FDA says formula stocking levels are higher than those seen before last year’s shortage. *********************************************************************************** Legislators Oppose Discriminatory Brazilian Tariffs on Ethanol A bipartisan group of congressional members is asking U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to prioritize ethanol export competitiveness and address unfair import tariffs Brazil has in place on U.S. ethanol. The letter, signed by 21 members, highlighted the importance of biofuel and ethanol production for rural communities throughout the country. Recently announced import tariffs by Brazil on American ethanol would negatively impact American agriculture, which previously received duty-free treatment from Brazil. “We believe the tariff imbalance is unjustified and puts American ethanol and farmers at risk,” the letter says. “We strongly urge you to prioritize American ethanol export competitiveness in the Brazilian market by addressing these unfair policies.” The letter also says should Brazil’s unfair treatment continue, the lawmakers then stand ready to work with Tai to consider measures that protect American farmers and biofuel producers to help counter these unfair trade practices. Brazil’s tariff was reinstated on February 1.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 5, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - WASDE, El Nino and Debt Next Steps 1. WASDE week again: Friday will see the June World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report from USDA. We'll share expectations in our preview story Wednesday. As for the report itself, our initial report flash posts after 11 a.m. CDT, with updates through the morning. 2. El Nino takes hold: The shift from La Nina to El Nino, something DTN meteorologists have talked about since early winter, appears to be moving along. Already we see winners and losers in terms of timely rainfall, a variability that is common with the "Little Boy" pattern. 3. Debt ceiling next steps: The government default may be averted, but there is much yet to learn about federal spending, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) discussions. All this could affect farm bill negotiations going forward. We'll continue to watch and report what we learn as the details eke out. 4. GOP hopefuls: A smattering of potential Republican presidential candidates gathered in Iowa the last few days and on June 3. DTN Policy Editor Chris Clayton will follow up and what was said and what was heard. 5. Reports to watch: We'll have the weekly USDA Crop Progress Report Monday afternoon. Wednesday sees the U.S. trade deficit numbers and the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory reports. Thursday USDA releases its weekly export sales, plus the weekly U.S. jobless claims numbers come out and we'll see an update of U.S. Drought Monitor.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday June 5, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and note any news from OPEC's meeting on Sunday. U.S. factory orders are scheduled for 9 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by USDA's weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m. USDA's Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. will include initial crop ratings for soybeans and spring wheat. Weather After a weekend of widespread rainfall across a lot of the Plains and western Midwest, Monday looks to be a quieter day for many areas. There will still be isolated to scattered showers from the Prairies to the Gulf Coast, however, and more frequent for those southern areas. Temperatures remain quite warm for many areas for this time of year.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 2, 2023 |

USDA Lowers 2023 Ag Exports The USDA says America’s agricultural exports in fiscal year 2023 are forecast at $181 billion, down $3.5 billion from the February forecast. The revision is driven by decreases in corn, wheat, beef, and poultry exports. Corn exports are forecast $2.1 billion lower to $14.5 billion on lower unit values and volumes as Brazil is projected to harvest a record second-corn crop. Wheat exports are projected down $900 million to $7.4 billion because of lower volumes and values, as well as increased competition. Soybean exports are projected up $300 million to $32.3 billion on slightly higher volumes. Total livestock, poultry, and dairy exports are expected to decrease by $1.2 billion to $39.3 billion. Declines in beef and poultry exports will more than offset increases in dairy exports. Cotton exports will be $6 billion, up $200 million, as higher volumes more than offset lower unit values. Ethanol exports were unchanged at $3.6 billion. *********************************************************************************** Rising Cost of Carry is Hitting Grain Elevators’ Bottom Lines A new report from CoBank says grain merchandisers have endured rising costs of storing or carrying grain and oilseed inventories during the past year because of rising interest rates. Higher crop prices and rising operating costs like transportation, insurance, fuel, electricity, and labor are also squeezing grain elevators. CoBank forecasts the financial cost of carry will reach record highs in the upcoming 2023-2024 crop year for corn, wheat, and soybeans. Grain elevators are required to buy and market members’ crops, regardless of whether the economics are favorable. The one thing elevators do control is their local bids. Inverted futures markets further penalize elevators for having to store grains and oilseeds. If interest rates stay at their current high level and futures markets remain inverted into the new crop year, then many grain cooperatives are expected to lower their bids and widen their basis to cover the high cost of storing commodities. *********************************************************************************** National Dairy FARM Excellence Award Nominations Open The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management Program Excellence Awards are back for a third year. The awards recognize farms and evaluators who demonstrate excellence in the FARM Program. Awards are given in four categories, including Animal Care and Antibiotic Stewardship, Environmental Stewardship, Workforce Development, and FARM Evaluator. “We are so proud of the farms that participate in our program areas and our dedicated evaluators,” says Emily Stepp, executive director of the FARM Program. “We believe it’s important to publicly recognize the people that make the FARM Program so successful.” Farms or FARM evaluators can be nominated by fellow dairy farmers, community members, extension, cooperative and processor staff, veterinarians, and themselves. Nominations are open through August 1. Nominated farms must have a current FARM Program evaluation in the respective category area and must be in good standing with the program. Evaluators must be FARM Program certified. More information is at nationaldairyfarm.com. *********************************************************************************** Legislation will strengthen America’s Food Supply Congressman Tom Tiffany of Wisconsin reintroduced the Guaranteeing Robust Agricultural Independence and Nutrition for America (GRAIN) Act. It would place a one-year moratorium on the enrollment of farmland in the Conservation Reserve Program, which pays farmers to leave land uncultivated. After the one-year moratorium, the bill would prevent prime farmland from getting enrolled in the CRP. “Food security is national security, and America needs to be taking the necessary steps to shore up our food supply,” Tiffany says. “We can only have a prosperous future if we allow our nation’s farmers to unleash their full production potential.” He also says the bill came about because the administration expanded the CRP in a “green fantasy” attempting to achieve net-zero emissions. Tiffany’s GRAIN for America Act would not impact farmland that is already a part of the CRP. Additionally, farmers who already have land in the CRP can re-enroll during the moratorium. *********************************************************************************** Reps Push USTR for Actions on Mexico Under the USMCA Representatives Michelle Fischbach of Minnesota and Adrian Smith of Nebraska led 62 colleagues in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai regarding Mexico. The House members are calling on Ambassador Tai to fully utilize the tools available under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement to hold Mexico accountable for its commitments. They’re asking Tai to proceed with a formal USMCA dispute to address Mexico’s discriminatory policies banning U.S. biotech corn. “Now that the thirty-day period for consultations has lapsed without Mexico making any changes, we urge you to take swift enforcement action by initiating a USMCA dispute,” the letter says. “Two months have passed since you made strong comments on Mexico during Congressional testimony, and we strongly believe it’s time to take additional steps in the matter.” The letter also points out that a lack of action would create a dangerous precedent that promises made under USMCA can be ignored without consequence. *********************************************************************************** FFA Hires Equity Executive in Residence The National FFA Organization named Corey Flournoy as the executive in residence for equity, diversity, and inclusion. In the new role, Flournoy will guide the leadership team and national boards in EDI matters. He’ll design, implement, and evaluate an EDI strategy that aligns with the organization’s strategic plan. “We’re excited to have Corey as a part of our team in this role,” says Scott Stump, CEO of the National FFA Organization. “We want to ensure our current and future members feel welcomed, and FFA is indeed a place for all to feel valued and contribute to our mission. Corey is the right person to help us achieve that goal.” Flournoy is a former FFA member and the first African-American FFA president. He brings over 30 years of experience and leadership in diversity and inclusion programming. “My overall goal is to help us rethink how we talk about and approach EDI,” Flournoy says.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday June 2, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as nonfarm payrolls and the U.S. unemployment rate for May. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and keep tabs on the effort to raise the debt ceiling. Weather Areas of scattered showers and thunderstorms will continue to develop in the Plains and parts of the western Midwest on Friday. Areas of heavy rain are expected to occur, most likely around Montana and west Texas, which may cause flooding. Temperatures continue to be above normal for most places.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 1, 2023 |

West Coast Ports Losing Business as Negotiations Continue West Coast ports in the U.S. started negotiating a new labor contract just over a year ago. While working without a new contract in place isn’t unheard of, the contract has now been expired for over 10 months. A report from the U.S. Meat Export Federation says the labor uncertainty is having an impact on red meat exports. “There’s a lot of questions and uncertainty surrounding the west coast ports,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Those ports are a vital starting point for a large number of our shipments to Asia.” The Long Beach and LA ports shut down in mid-April and were followed by further disruptions later that month. He says USMEF is seeing a reduction in imports, and some discretionary cargo is getting diverted away to ports in the Gulf of Mexico and the East Coast. “This isn’t good news for the meat industry,” he says. *********************************************************************************** FAO Issues Report on World’s Hunger Hotspots The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization has issued an early report on places it expects to be hunger hotspots from June to November. The FAO says food insecurity is likely going to increase in magnitude and severity in 18 hunger hotspots in 22 countries. The report spotlights the risk of spillover in the Sudan crisis, raising the risk of negative impacts in the surrounding countries. It also says deeper economic shocks will continue to drive low- and middle-income nations deeper into crisis. FAO is also warning that a likely El Niño climate event will raise fears of climate extremes in the most vulnerable nations around the world. All of the hotspots at the highest level of concern have populations facing or projected to face starvation or are at risk of deterioration towards those conditions. Countries like Afghanistan, Nigeria, Somalia, and South Sudan remain at the highest level of concern. *********************************************************************************** Global Clean Energy Kickstarting a Climate-Smart Camelina Project Global Clean Energy Holdings and USDA have signed a contract for the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities grant for their Climate-Smart Camelina (kam-uh-LEE-nah) Project. Now that the agreement is signed, work can officially begin on their $30 million project to measure and validate the advantages of camelina as an ultra-low carbon nonfood renewable fuel. The project will implement, measure, and validate the advantages of camelina in both rotational and winter crop production systems. The goal is to accelerate farmers’ adoption of camelina grown to produce feedstock for renewable biofuels and chemicals without causing land-use change and while increasing carbon capture in the soil. Climate-Smart Camelina will also support market development to provide additional revenue streams for growers and provide a premium for this low-carbon intensity crop. “We’re excited to begin this important work,” says Richard Palmer, CEO of Global Clean Energy. “Camelina could be the lowest-carbon intensity feedstock option on the market.” *********************************************************************************** Groups Pushing for Passage of Shipping Reform Implementation Act The Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act is designed to help with slowdowns and other issues at U.S. ports. The Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act follows the Ocean Shipping Reform Act passed a year ago. The first bill gave the Federal Maritime Commission the power to address the actions of foreign carriers leaving U.S. ports empty and not carrying American goods back home. The new Reform Implementation Act clarifies the FMC role and focuses attention on shipping exchanges. The goals are to streamline port logistics, reduce disruption, and address the influence of Chinese companies on shippers’ operations. U.S. ports are also prohibited from using Chinese state-sponsored software. The FMC can now investigate foreign shipping exchanges like the Shanghai Shipping Exchange to prevent improper business practices. A report from Supply Management says the sponsoring legislators point out it gives the FMC the authority to protect U.S. ports, shippers, and manufacturers from Chinese influence. *********************************************************************************** Weekly Grain Inspections Drop, Bean Assessments Head Higher A USDA report says inspections of corn and wheat for overseas delivery were down week-to-week, while soybean assessments improved during the week ending on May 25. Corn inspections fell to 1.31 million metric tons during the week, down from 1.33 million tons. That’s also lower than the 1.41 million tons inspected during the same week last year. Wheat assessments drop to just over 382,000 metric tons from over 440,000 the prior week. That was up from the 344,300 metric tons during the same week in 2022. Soybean inspections rose to 239,736 metric tons from 166,590 tons the week before. That’s still down from the 404,300 tons assessed during the same week last year. Since the start of the marketing year, USDA has inspected 28.7 million metric tons of corn for offshore delivery – down from 43.3 billion tons last year - 48.5 million metric tons of soybeans, and 19.6 million tons of wheat *********************************************************************************** Water-Quality Certified Farms Make More Profits A study from the Minnesota State Agricultural Centers of Excellence says using water quality practices on the farm has financial benefits. For the fourth year in a row, farmers enrolled in the state’s Agricultural Water Quality Program had higher profits than those that didn’t. More than 100 farms enrolled in the water certification program throughout the state. Forty-three of the state’s 87 counties were represented. On average, water quality-certified farms brought in $23,500 more than non-certified farms, which was a 7.5 percent increase in profits. The average net income was more than $317,800 for farms involved in the study, while the state average was $257,600. “This clearly states the case for water quality certification,” says Keith Olander, AgCentric director. “I can say this because we’re also doing this with cover crops, and we want to carry that forward and see where the environmental metrics go to help farmers with their decisions.”

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday June 1, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, weekly U.S. jobless claims will be out, along with a report on first-quarter productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. An index of U.S. manufacturing is set for 9 a.m. The U.S. Energy Department's natural gas storage report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT, followed by weekly inventories, including ethanol production at 10 a.m. The monthly Fats and Oils report from NASS is set for 2 p.m. Weather As has been the case all week long, showers and thunderstorms continue to develop in parts of the Plains, being heavy in some spots where they occur, which may produce flooding. The Texas Panhandle has been hit repeatedly but other areas up and down the Plains could see some locally heavy rain as well. Some isolated showers and thunderstorms may occur in parts of the western Midwest and Southeast.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 31, 2023 |

USDA Extends Deadline for Revenue Loss Programs USDA is extending deadlines for the Emergency Relief Program Phase Two and the Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program to July 14. The goal is to give producers more time to apply for the assistance. Also, USDA’s Farm Service Agency is partnering with nine organizations to provide educational and technical assistance to agricultural producers and provide assistance in completing an ERP Phase Two application. “Farm Service Agency recognizes that there is a learning curve for producers applying for the new revenue-based programs, and we want to make sure producers have the time they need to apply for assistance,” says FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Partnering with these organizations through cooperative agreements provides additional assistance to producers who need help with ERP Phase Two.” The groups include Farmers Legal Action Group, Inc., the North South Institute, Rural Coalition, and others. For more information on the nine organizations and their contact information, go to fsa.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Next USDA Trade Mission Heading to Japan USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor will lead an upcoming trade mission to Japan on June 5-8. The delegation will include a large representation of American agriculture, including businesses, state agriculture departments, and commodity groups. “As one of the world’s leading economies, Japan is an important market for U.S. food and agricultural exports,” Taylor says. “It’s an honor to lead this delegation as we work to expand our bilateral trade relationship even further.” Japan is the fourth-largest market for U.S. food and agricultural exports. In 2022, American exports matched the previous record of $14.6 billion. Exports of specific products like soybeans, dairy, and others reached new highs. The United States is vital to ensuring food security in Japan, with almost a quarter of Japan’s food and ag imports coming from American exporters. Trips like this are important for engaging directly with potential buyers and Japanese industry experts. *********************************************************************************** Talks Continue on Merging U.S. and Canadian Ag Giants Glencore, a global commodities trader, is in talks to merge its agricultural division. The Globe and Mail says the company wants to merge Viterra, Ltd, a large Canadian company acquired in 2012, with Bunge Ltd. If the merger takes place, it will create a large North American-based company. Viterra operates a large number of grain elevators, specialty crop facilities, processing plants, and port terminals through most of Canada and parts of the U.S. Glencore wants to merge it with Bunge, based out of St. Louis, one of the world’s dominant ag companies with a market value of $14 billion. Glencore first proposed a merger idea with Bunge in 2017 but was turned down. A source close to the discussions says a deal seems much more likely this time than six years ago, but the sides haven’t agreed on a final price. Glencore originally bought Viterra for $6 billion in 2012. *********************************************************************************** Safety From too Much Sun People working in production agriculture spend a lot of time out in the sun, and their risks are high for skin cancer. While the warm sun often feels good on the skin, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself from overexposure and reduce skin-related risks. The Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center says appropriate sun protection includes covering the whole body with clothing, wearing a hat with a full brim, having adequate sunscreen coverage, and sunglasses. As a part of its safety checklist, they remind farmers to wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when out in the sun. Hats should be wide-brimmed and all the way around the head. An appropriate sunscreen should be anywhere between SPF 30-50 and should be reapplied every two hours or more frequently with heavy sweating. Wear sunglasses to protect the eyes. Check your skin regularly and talk to a doctor about any changes you see. *********************************************************************************** Congressional Leaders, White House Reach Debt Ceiling Agreement Congressional leaders and the White House reached an agreement on extending the debt limit. The new agreement is expected to reach the House floor for debate by Wednesday. The two sides reached an agreement including compromises on work requirements in the SNAP program. Chris Gibbs, Board President of Rural Voices USA, says now that the agreement has been reached, it’s time for Congress to get it passed. “Rural America would be hammered by default and its cascading impacts on retirement savings, farm credit, access to capital, benefits, and more,” he says. “In addition to avoiding this politically-manufactured crisis, Congress needs to get back to the legislating business.” Gibbs also says it’s time to invest in rural America through healthcare and education, expanding new markets for American agricultural products, and protecting every American’s right to vote. With SNAP work requirements settled, it should provide a somewhat smoother path toward the next farm bill. *********************************************************************************** Drought Area Spreading in Parts of Rural America USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey is looking back at May and notes some farmers are still concerned about drought. “It’s been dry over much of the Midwest during the last one to three months, depending on where you’re at,” Rippey says. The American Meteorological Society says a 4-12 week period of dryness fits the definition of a flash drought. A flash drought is an “unusually rapid onset drought characterized by a multi-week timeframe of accelerated intensification that impacts one or more sectors of the U.S., including agriculture. Rippey also says the area around Chicago is going through a flash drought. Data shows the Chicago area is headed for its second-driest May in history. The likely rainfall total for the Chicago area is just .42 of an inch. Rippey says 26 percent of corn acres, 36 percent of cotton, 20 percent of soybeans, and 47 percent of wheat are in some level of drought.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 31, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will be released at 1 p.m. CDT. There are no other significant reports Wednesday. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and follow progress on the proposal in Congress to raise the debt ceiling. Weather As has been the pattern lately, showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop in the Plains for yet another day. However, we should see showers and thunderstorms developing in the western half of the Midwest as well. Models are all over the place with placement and intensity, but some heavier rain should be expected, which could lead to some flooding in spots. Severe weather cannot be ruled out either, especially over west Texas.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 30, 2023 |

More Reaction to Supreme Court’s WOTUS Decision U.S. agriculture groups continue reacting positively to the Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling in the Sackett vs. EPA case that rejected the Biden Administration’s WOTUS definition. “Cattle producers can breathe a sigh of relief,” says National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Todd Wilkinson. “This decision refocuses the Clean Water Act on protecting our water through regulatory clarity.” The Fertilizer Institute also welcomed the decision. “The decision to strike down the ‘significant nexus’ test is a win for agriculture,” says TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “This is a great first step to needed clarity for the fertilizer industry’s long-term planning and capital investments that will allow us to keep providing critical crop nutrients.” The National Pork Producers Council called the decision a “tremendous victory” for pork producers. “This ruling is a clear punctuation point after decades of attempts to expand the federal government’s control of private land,” says NPPC Vice President Duane Stateler. *********************************************************************************** Report Released Showing Crop Insurance Impact by State Crop insurance is the cornerstone of America’s farm safety net and supports the rural economy and America’s national food security. National Crop Insurance Services has assembled several fact sheets highlighting the importance of agriculture and demonstrating how crop insurance keeps America growing. For example, crop insurance protects more than 490 million acres of U.S. farmland. It covers 136 crops and 604 varieties with 36 different insurance plans. Crop insurance does require farmers to invest in their own protection and share the risk. Last year, farmers paid $6.8 billion to buy more than 1.2 million crop insurance policies. The public-private partnership between the federal government and private crop insurers ensures that aid is delivered quickly, usually within 30 days of a claim being finalized. As if that’s not enough, the number of Americans who benefit from a bountiful supply of domestically-produced food totals 336 million. The state-by-state breakdown is available at cropinsuranceinmystate.org. *********************************************************************************** BLM Holds Information Session on New Rule The Bureau of Land Management hosted the first in a series of three informational sessions on a new agency proposal to broaden its conservation efforts. The draft Conservation and Landscape Health Rule would overhaul a variety of existing land management procedures at BLM. The changes would give it clearer authority to prioritize the health and resilience of ecosystems across almost 250 million acres of federally-owned land. Agency officials and supporters of the rule say it would place conservation and outdoor recreation on level ground with industrial uses like ranching and oil and gas drilling that BLM has facilitated for many years. Opponents and their Republican allies say it will likely curb those uses as much of the rule revolves around “conservation leases.” It’s a new mechanism that would protect certain areas from development for up to ten years. And those leases would be proposed by environmental non-profits or other applicants. *********************************************************************************** H-2A Visa Use Increased Dramatically During the Last Decade According to numbers from the U.S. Labor Department, more than 378,000 workers were authorized for H-2A visas for temporary agriculture positions. The number was less than a third of that as recently as 2012. Farmer Mac says that trend is going to continue for some time. “In the short run, I expect that growth to continue as long as pressure remains on labor markets,” says Jackson Takach, the chief economist with Farmer Mac. Back in 2012, the Labor Department said just 103,000 workers entered the U.S. through the H-2A program. H-2A workers are most heavily utilized in states like California and Florida because fruits and vegetables require more manual labor. However, those workers are also vital for agriculture in the Midwest and Great Plains. Iowa tops the list of states with the most H-2A workers in the Central U.S. Iowa was followed by Minnesota and North Dakota on the list. *********************************************************************************** Legislation on Easing Supply Chain Challenges Advances in the House Several industry trade groups say a number of trucking bills passed by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee are a step in the right direction. Food Navigator says the bills should help to further repair and reinforce America’s fragile food supply chains threatened by a severe shortage of drivers. Almost three-fourths of all goods in America’s economy, including all foods sold in grocery stores, get moved by the trucking industry. The bipartisan legislation would reduce the “empty miles” that trucks have to travel by allowing them to increase the weight they carry with an additional axle. A bill from Dusty Johnson (R-SD) would establish a voluntary ten-year pilot program allowing states to increase the weight of six-axle vehicles on federal interstates up to 91,000 pounds. Supporters say increasing the amount of weight trucks can carry would lower greenhouse gas emissions, ease supply chain backlogs, and reduce the number of “empty miles.” *********************************************************************************** Weekly Soybean Sales Rise, Corn and Wheat Drop The USDA says soybean export sales rose during the week ending on May 19, while cancelations of corn and wheat orders from overseas customers resulted in net reductions. Soybean sales rose to 115,000 metric tons during the week, up from the prior week but down 26 percent from the previous five-year average. Germany was the top customer at almost 58,000 metric tons, while Japan bought 53,500 tons. Cancelations of corn orders resulted in a net drop of 75,200 metric tons during the week. However, that’s still better than the net reduction of 339,000 during the prior week. Mexico was the top corn buyer at 216,000 metric tons. But China canceled shipments of almost 332,000 metric tons. Wheat cancelations resulted in net reductions of 45,100 metric tons, the lowest level since the marketing year began. China bought 68,000 tons of wheat while Nigeria took in almost 16,000. Japan canceled shipments totaling 63,000 metric tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 30, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Back from the three-day weekend, trading in grains resumes at 7 p.m. CDT Monday evening. Traders will catch up with the latest weather forecasts and see the House is expected to vote on a debt ceiling compromise Wednesday. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is set for 10 a.m., followed by USDA's Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Weather After a long holiday weekend of widespread showers and thunderstorms for much of the Plains, that general area will again be alight with more rain on Tuesday. Some areas of showers and thunderstorms are also forecast for the northwestern Midwest. Other showers and thunderstorms are forecast in parts of the Midwest, Delta, and Southeast, but at a very isolated coverage pattern.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 26, 2023 |

AFBF: Supreme Court Reaffirms Clean Water Rule The Supreme Court Thursday ruled against the Environmental Protection Agency in the case Sackett vs. EPA regarding the Biden administration's Waters of the U.S. rule. The court stated that wetlands under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act must have a continuous surface connection to bodies of water, making it difficult to determine where the water ends, and the wetland begins. American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall responded, "The justices respect private property rights. It's now time for the Biden administration to do the same and rewrite the Waters of the United States Rule." Representative Dan Newhouse, a Washington state Republican and Congressional Western Caucus Chairman, says, “This landmark decision from the Supreme Court is a clear demonstration of our nation’s commitment to upholding the principles of individual property rights.” Agricultural Retailers Association President and CEO Daren Coppock added, “The decision finally restores common sense back into WOTUS regulation.” *********************************************************************************** Japan Trade Agreement Projected to Grow U.S. Pork Exports Japan’s pork imports are estimated to increase to more than $6 billion over the next five years, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Growth is supported by trade agreements Japan ratified between 2018 and 2021 with its major pork suppliers, including the United States, the European Union, and the ten countries party to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. These agreements mandate reductions in Japan’s trade barriers on pork imports. A recent report from USDA estimates these trade agreements will boost 2028 exports to Japan from the United States, EU, and CPTPP countries to totals of $2.08 billion, $2.04 billion, and $2.03 billion, respectively. For the United States, this is a large gain compared with a scenario in which the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement did not exist. Under that scenario, U.S. pork exports to Japan would have totaled $1.41 billion, and EU and CPTPP countries would have gained market share at the expense of the United States. *********************************************************************************** Drought Monitor: Southern Plains See Drought Relief The Southern Plains saw drought relief over the last week, according to the latest Drought Monitor released Thursday. Still, much of the rain arrived too late to rescue winter wheat, though rangeland, pastures, and summer crops greatly benefited from the soil moisture improvements. In Texas, rangeland and pastures rated in very poor to poor condition by the Department of Agriculture improved from 51 to 36 percent during the week ending May 21. On the same date, topsoil moisture was rated less than one-third very short to short in Texas and Oklahoma. Still, despite abundant showers and thunderstorms, pockets of extreme to exceptional drought persisted in western and central Texas and across the northwestern half of Oklahoma. Farther east, most areas remained free of dryness and drought, aside from a few areas in the central Gulf Coast. Meanwhile, variable rainfall extended westward into the central and southern Rockies and eastward to the southern Atlantic Coast. *********************************************************************************** Lab-Grown Meat Carbon Footprint Potentially Greater than Retail Beef A new report suggests lab-grown meat may have a larger carbon footprint than retail beef. Researchers at the University of California-Davis found that lab-grown or "cultivated" meat's environmental impact is likely to be "orders of magnitude" higher than retail beef based. Researchers conducted a life-cycle assessment of the energy needed and greenhouse gases emitted in all stages of production and compared that with beef. One of the current challenges with lab-grown meat is the use of highly refined or purified growth media, the ingredients needed to help animal cells multiply. The study found that the global warming potential of lab-based meat using these purified media is four to 25 times greater than the average for retail beef. Even the most efficient beef production systems reviewed in the study outperform cultured meat across all scenarios, suggesting investments to advance more climate-friendly beef production may yield greater reductions in emissions more quickly than investments in cultured meat. *********************************************************************************** Program Pays Illinois Farmers to Improve Soil Health American Farmland Trust and ADM are launching the next season of a program that supports Illinois’s farmers and the environment. The Illinois re:generations program encourages farmers to incorporate environmentally friendly practices into their operations while offering financial incentives. The program is an expanded version of the 2022 Illinois Cover Crop Initiative and offers flexible contracts to farmers willing to adopt cover crops 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 acres where practices have previously been used and choose from one to four year contracts. In 2023, farmers throughout the state can enroll for the cover crop incentive, and farmers delivering corn and beans to an ADM elevator can qualify for emissions-scoring payments. Enrollment for the 2023 program launches in June. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Addresses Housing Shortage in Rural Communities Lawmakers this week introduced the Forest Service Flexible Housing Partnerships Act to help address the housing shortage in rural and mountain communities. The bipartisan legislation would strengthen the authority of the United States Forest Service to lease underutilized administrative sites to address local needs, including for building affordable housing. Senator Michael Bennet, a Colorado Democrat, introduced the legislation. Bennet says, “This bill will build on our efforts in the 2018 Farm Bill to help communities and the Forest Service work together to build more affordable housing.” The 2018 Farm Bill secured the authority for the Forest Service to lease underused administrative sites to localities in exchange for in-kind contributions, including housing construction and improvement or maintenance of federal facilities. As a result of the housing crisis in the West, the Forest Service currently experiences a severe staffing shortage. The legislation will also help the agency provide housing for its firefighters and other critical positions to better serve the communities they work for.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 26, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the PCE index for April will be out, the Fed's favorite inflation indicator. We'll also see reports on April durable goods orders, personal incomes and consumer spending. The University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment for May follows at 9 a.m. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and news of grain shipments out of the Black Sea. Weather Showers and thunderstorms that have been persistent in Montana and the southwestern Plains are forecast to spread through more of the Plains on Friday. Heavy rain and some severe weather are possible. Most of the Corn Belt stays dry today, with some growing concern over dryness through the Midwest.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 25, 2023 |

Supreme Court Sides With Sacketts in Clean Water Act Case The Supreme Court sided with two Idaho property owners in their ongoing wetlands dispute with EPA on Thursday, ruling EPA's use of the significant nexus test when making Clean Water Act determinations is too broad. In writing the 5-4 majority opinion, Justice Samuel Alito said EPA has misinterpreted the Clean Water Act's reach when it comes to the property owned by Michael and Chantell Sackett and that the term significant nexus isn't found in the Clean Water Act. "In sum, we hold that the CWA extends to only those 'wetlands with a continuous surface connection to bodies that are 'waters of the United States' in their own right,' so that they are 'indistinguishable' from those waters," Alito said in his opinion. "This holding compels reversal here. The wetlands on the Sacketts' property are distinguishable from any possibly covered waters." The ruling will naturally lead to lower courts examining how the decision applies to the Biden administration's definition of "waters of the U.S." that right now is under court injunctions in at least 26 states tied to two separate courts. The American Farm Bureau Federation praised the Supreme Court decision, stating EPA "clearly overstepped its authority under the Clean Water Act by restricting private property owners from developing their land despite being far from the nearest navigable water." Zippy Duvall, president of AFBF, then called on the Biden administration to rewrite its waters of the U.S. rule. "Farmers and ranchers share the goal of protecting the resources they're entrusted with, but they deserve a rule that provides clarity and doesn't require a team of attorneys to properly care for their land," Duvall said. EPA Administrator Michael Regan expressed disappointment in the court ruling, stating the Supreme Court decision "erodes longstanding clean water protections." Regan added, "The Biden-Harris Administration has worked to establish a durable definition of 'waters of the United States' that safeguards our nation's waters, strengthens economic opportunity, and protects people's health while providing the clarity and certainty that farmers, ranchers, and landowners deserve. These goals will continue to guide the agency forward as we carefully review the Supreme Court decision and consider next steps." The Sacketts have been battling EPA since 2007 for the right to build on land the agency has deemed to be a wetland. Their property sits on a lakefront and they've argued that there is no surface connection between the lake and their land. Alito said in the majority opinion that the Clean Water Act's reach is far narrower than EPA has opined. "The EPA, however, offers only a passing attempt to square its interpretation with the text and its 'significant nexus' theory is particularly implausible," Alito writes. He said the definition of waters of the U.S. is more limited. "And, in any event, the CWA never mentions the 'significant nexus' test, so the EPA has no statutory basis to impose it," Alito stated. One environmental group characterized the court's decision as 'stripping out key protections' from the Clean Water Act. Manish Bapna, president and CEO of the Natural Resources Defense Council, said in a statement to DTN that the court "ripped the heart" out of the law. "The majority chose to protect polluters at the expense of healthy wetlands and waterways," Bapna said. "This decision will cause incalculable harm. Communities across the country will pay the price." The agency's use of the significant-nexus standard has been at the heart of opposition from agriculture and other industries to recent iterations of the waters of the U.S. rule. The standard essentially allows the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to determine waters are covered by the law if there is a chemical connection to larger navigable water bodies. The Sacketts have filed many appeals on the EPA decision in the past 15 years. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit had sided with EPA's wetland assessment on the Sacketts' property. The court's ruling sends the appeals court decision back to the court for reconsideration. Alito said in the majority opinion that EPA's interpretation of the law "gives rise to serious vagueness concerns in light of the CWA's criminal penalties." "Due process requires Congress to define penal statutes 'with sufficient definiteness that ordinary people can understand what conduct is prohibited'," Alito writes, "and 'in a manner that does not encourage arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.' Yet the meaning of 'waters of the United States' under the EPA's interpretation remains hopelessly indeterminate. "The EPA contends that the only thing preventing it from interpreting 'waters of the United States' to 'conceivably cover literally every body of water in the country' is the significant-nexus test." Alito's ruling noted in defining "waters of the U.S.," the court revisits what has been "a contentious and difficult task." Alito said the phrase "waters of the U.S." has sparked decades of EPA action and litigation. The boundary between "significant" and insignificant is far from clear, Alito wrote. EPA argued that "waters" also includes wetlands. But Alito points to the presence of puddles and also noted in an earlier decision that ponds are not considered part of waters of the U.S. Alito went into an extensive writing about where wetlands fall in the CWA. Justice Brett Kavanaugh concurs in his opinion but said that the "wetlands with a continuous surface connection to bodies that are 'waters of the United States' in their own right so that they are "indistinguishable" from those waters." Kavanaugh wrote that he agreed the Sacketts' property should not have been covered under the Clean Water Act, but he said the majority ruling goes too far in removing the significant nexus test. The court's new "continuous surface connection" goes against 45 years of consistent agency practice and court precedents, Kavanaugh wrote. "By narrowing the act's coverage of wetlands to only adjoining wetlands, the court's new test will leave some long-regulated adjacent wetlands no longer covered by the Clean Water Act, with significant repercussions for water quality and flood control throughout the United States."

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 25, 2023 |

Iowa Cash Rents Hit Highest Average Value on Record The recent yearly survey of Iowa’s cash rental rates for farmland shows rates jumped by nine percent so far in 2023. The average is now $279 per acre, the highest average value on record. This new peak rate is three percent higher than the previous high of $270 in 2013. By way of comparison, average nominal (not inflation-adjusted) corn and soybean prices paid to farmers in the first quarter of this year were 2.8 percent higher and 4.4 percent lower, respectively, than in the first quarter of 2013. Of the usable responses to the Iowa State University Extension survey, 42 percent came from farmers, 37 percent from landowners, nine percent from professional farm managers and realtors, and seven percent came from ag lenders. The survey showed considerable variability across counties in year-to-year changes, typical of these surveys. A total of 91 out of 99 counties showed higher rents for corn and soybeans. *********************************************************************************** Ribbon Cutting on National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility USDA and the Department of Homeland Security celebrated the dedication and ribbon-cutting of the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility in Manhattan, Kansas. This facility is the first of its kind in the U.S. It offers the highest level of bio-containment laboratories and safety protocols and will allow scientists to study and diagnose critical animal diseases. “America’s farmers, ranchers, and consumers count on our researchers to understand, monitor for, and develop solutions to combat a variety of high-consequence animal pathogens,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. A facility of this magnitude positions us to respond.” The valuable scientific information delivered by researchers at NBAF will also allow America to remain a leading contributor of countermeasures that will protect agriculture, economies, and citizens across the globe. A USDA news release also says it’s a historic investment for agriculture and our nation in ensuring the health, safety, and security of the U.S. food supply. *********************************************************************************** EPA to Recommend Delaying Electric Vehicles Biofuel Program The Environmental Protection Agency will recommend delaying a program that would allow electric vehicle manufacturers to access tradeable credits under the Renewable Fuel Standard. Two sources told Reuters that the White House will review the EPA’s final rule. The plan would have given EV automakers credits for charging vehicles using power generated from natural gas or methane. The threat of potential lawsuits also could have played a part in the postponement. The initial proposal last November could have generated as much as 600 million tradeable credits in 2024 and 1.2 billion in 2025. Prices for equivalent biofuel credits have recently traded over $2 each. The two sources also say the Biden Administration is still hoping to pass a final rule on the EV program before the end of 2023, even if it gets uncoupled from the yearly blending mandates. Biden is boosting the EV industry in an effort to reduce carbon emissions. *********************************************************************************** China Opposes U.S. Trade Agreement with Taiwan China had a lot to say about the recent trade agreement between the U.S. and Taiwan. Saltwire.com says China’s Ministry of Commerce urged the U.S. to “carefully handle economic and trade relations with Taiwan.” The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office recently announced that the U.S. and Taiwan reached an agreement on the first part of their 21st Century trade initiative. The agreement covers customs and trade facilitation, regulatory practices, and small businesses. The pact is not expected to alter goods tariffs, but supporters say it will tighten economic bonds between the two nations and open up the Chinese-claimed island to more U.S. exports. It will also improve the ability of the island nation to resist Chinese economic coercion. China reacted angrily to the Taiwan president’s recent meetings with high-level U.S. officials, including Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy. The announcement came just ahead of trade meetings between the U.S. and China. *********************************************************************************** USDA Wants Input on Prevented Planting Crop Insurance Coverage The USDA published a Request for Information announcing public listening sessions and soliciting public comments on possible changes to prevent planting crop insurance coverage. In addition to the written public comment period, the Risk Management Agency will hold in-person and virtual listening sessions from June through August. “We truly care about what our customers, the nation’s agricultural producers, have to say,” says RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “That’s why we’re hosting listening sessions in 11 states in addition to accepting written comments.” The request for information is looking for input on the harvest price option, the “1 in 4” Rule, the ten percent additional coverage option, the contract prices, as well as general information on farmers’ willingness to pay additional premiums for expanded prevented planting benefits. They also want recommendations on other potential prevent planting limitations. Additional details on the listening sessions, including the schedule, are available on the RMA website. *********************************************************************************** Soy Innovation Challenge Winner’s New Approach to Soy Meal Processing The United Soybean Board announced Satavie is the winner of the 2023 Soy Innovation Challenge. The Challenge called on entrepreneurs, innovators, startups, and research teams to bring new ways to advance the use of soybean meal and demand in existing markets. Satavie was selected as the winner out of 80 applicants from around the world. The company has a unique approach to extracting concentrated soy protein from soybean meal. Their new method ensures high levels of digestibility, improved nutrient absorption, and increased feed conversion rates that are ideal for swine, poultry, and aquaculture feed. As the winner of the contest, the company gets $100,000 from the United Soybean Board and $5,000 of in-kind technical services and credits from Amazon Web Services. The company’s president says the impact on the soy industry will be enormous. Their water extraction patented technique leads to better health outcomes, overall growth, and improved meat quality.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 25, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, a new estimate of first-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. More reports follow with U.S. pending home sales in April at 9 a.m. and natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. Traders remain attentive to changes in weather. Weather Yet another day of isolated to scattered showers are expected in the Plains, being heaviest in parts of the drought across the southwest. Additional strings of showers and thunderstorms are expected for the Northern Plains into the Canadian Prairies as well. Outside of some cool temperatures across the Midwest, it remains rather warm as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 24, 2023 |

Last Chance to Complete the 2022 Census of Agriculture USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will end data collection for the 2022 Census of Agriculture on May 31. Producers who have not yet returned their completed questionnaires have just one week left to respond. Federal law requires everyone who received the ag census to complete and return it. Recipients can respond online at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail. NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer says, “Not being represented in these widely used data means risking being underserved.” USDA NASS is reminding ag census recipients that if they produced and sold $1,000 or more of agricultural product in 2022, or normally would have produced and sold that much, they meet USDA’s definition of a farm. However, landowners who lease land to producers, those solely involved in conservation programs, and even those who may not have farmed in 2022 are still required to respond. USDA will release the results in 2024. To learn more about the Census of Agriculture, visit nass.usda.gov/AgCensus. *********************************************************************************** NIFA Helps Veterinary Medical Students Repay Loans USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture helped 89 food animal veterinary practitioners with loan repayments from the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program in 2022. NIFA reported this week that the 89 students from 28 American Veterinary Medical Association accredited Colleges received nearly $9 million in loan repayment benefits. The program up to $75,000 in loan repayment over a three-year period to help eligible veterinarians offset a significant portion of the debt incurred in pursuit of their veterinary medical degrees in return for their service in certain high-priority veterinary shortage situations. Funding is authorized by the National Veterinary Medical Services Act. NIFA National Program Leader Bob Smith says, "Award recipients regularly tell us that they wouldn't be able to serve these areas without this support." The program helps address the critical shortage of food animal veterinarians in both private and public practice, particularly in rural communities in the United States. *********************************************************************************** Eating Patterns Differ from Federal Recommendations U.S. consumers’ eating patterns differ from Federal recommendations for many food categories, and where food is obtained plays a role. Researchers from USDA’s Economic Research Service examined diet patterns based on density—amounts of food consumed per 1,000 calories—using the latest available national food consumption data. They compared the average consumption densities of 17 food categories with what would be needed to match the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations, assuming a 2,000-calorie intake. Average total consumption densities for 11 food categories fell more than 20 percent outside of recommended levels, with whole grains more than 70 percent below the recommended amount. Refined grains, on the other hand, had a consumption density of more than 85 percent above the recommended level. Densities of six food categories were within 20 percent of the recommended range. Generally, food purchased at grocery stores, supermarkets, and similar retailers for home preparation had consumption densities more in line with dietary recommendations than food obtained from commercial away-from-home sources. *********************************************************************************** USDA, University of Kentucky Break Ground on New Forage Research Building Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Tuesday participated in a groundbreaking ceremony for a new research facility, known as the Forage-Animal Production Research Unit. The University of Kentucky's College of Agriculture, Food and the Environment will host the new facility. Vilsack says, “Today’s groundbreaking builds on more than two decades of partnership with the University of Kentucky, while demonstrating USDA’s latest commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible for agriculture.” Upon completion, targeted for 2026, the new facility will encompass approximately 52,600 total square feet of office, supporting a research laboratory space, as well as a collaborative area, headhouse and eight-bay greenhouses. It will be staffed by six Agricultural Research Service scientists, seven university researchers, laboratory technicians, and administrative personnel. Earlier this month, USDA released a three-year science and research strategy, which establishes a scientific framework to transform the U.S. food system and support our nation's farmers, ranchers, producers and foresters. *********************************************************************************** The Alltech ONE World Tour begins in Budapest Central Europe's agriculture producers will play a major role in addressing climate and food supply challenges around the world. The region's agri-food leaders discussed collaborative solutions and strategies for success today in Budapest, Hungary, at the first stop of the Alltech ONE World Tour. The event launches a series of international stops that bring the ideas and inspiration of the annual Alltech ONE Conference to the world. Discussions explored collaborative solutions to the greatest challenges facing the agri-food industry as it confronts the "4 Cs" — the major forces of climate, conflict, consumer trends and rising costs. Alltech president and CEO Dr. Mark Lyons says, "In times of uncertainty, it is crucial for businesses like ours to adapt and innovate." The Alltech ONE World Tour will continue with stops in Dublin, Ireland, on June 19–20 and Calgary, Canada, on July 3–4, then on to the U.S., Asia, South America and the Middle East. For more information and to register for an Alltech ONE World Tour stop, visit one.alltech.com. *********************************************************************************** Ford to Keep AM Radio in New Vehicles Ford CEO Jim Farley announced on Twitter Tuesday that the company would include AM radio as part of all newly manufactured vehicles in 2024. Farley says, “After speaking with policy leaders about the importance of AM broadcast radio as a part of the emergency alert system, we've decided to include it on all 2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles.” Any owners of a Ford electric vehicle without AM broadcast capability will be offered the capability through a software update, according to the company. The reversal follows action by lawmakers who introduced the AM for Every Vehicle Act last week, and opposition by broadcast associations. The National Association of Broadcasters, in a statement responded, "In light of Ford's announcement, NAB urges other automakers who have removed AM radio from their vehicles to follow Ford's lead." The AM for Every Vehicle Act cited the importance of keeping communities informed during emergencies, particularly rural communities with a lack of other information resources.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 24, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories, including ethanol production, is due out at 9:30 a.m. CDT. Minutes from the latest FOMC meeting are out at 1 p.m., followed by USDA's monthly cold storage report at 2 p.m. Traders continue to pay attention to the latest weather developments, news regarding Black Sea grain movement and talks surrounding the debt ceiling. Weather The Plains continue to be a focus for showers, especially across the southern drought areas where moderate to heavy rain has developed this week and continues Wednesday. An additional zone from Montana through Saskatchewan is also producing more consistent showers and thunderstorms. Other isolated showers will dot the rest of the Plains and Southeast as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 23, 2023 |

USDA to Bring Jobs and Improved Infrastructure to Rural Partners Network The Department of Agriculture Monday announced an effort to help rural communities to address some of their immediate needs and foster long-term economic growth. USDA is providing loans and grants to help people living in rural and Tribal communities in the Rural Partners Network access good-paying jobs, improved infrastructure, affordable housing and quality health care. The funding will support 52 projects in Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, West Virginia and Puerto Rico. In the West, the funding will help Tribal communities improve water and wastewater services and bring solar power and other forms of renewable energy to Tribal lands and farms. For people in Southern communities, projects will increase access to fresh foods in high-poverty areas and allow electric cooperatives to connect thousands of people to power with smart-grid technologies. The announcement includes $394 million in awards from USDA that will benefit communities and support their long-term visions for strong, local economies. *********************************************************************************** New Right to Repair MOUs Bring Industry Coverage to 70% The American Farm Bureau Federation signed two more memoranda of understanding with two agricultural equipment manufacturers. The new MOUs were signed by AGCO and Kubota, providing farmers and ranchers the right to repair their own farm equipment. The MOUs, negotiated independently with each manufacturer, follow similar agreements AFBF entered into with John Deere and CNH Industrial Brands earlier this year. The four MOUs cover roughly 70 percent of the agricultural machinery sold in the United States. AFBF President Zippy Duvall says, “These agreements represent ongoing efforts to ensure farmers have access to the tools necessary to keep their equipment running.” The MOUs set a framework for farmers and independent repair facilities in all 50 U.S. states and Puerto Rico to access AGCO and Kubota manuals, tools, product guides and information to self-diagnose and self-repair machines, as well as support from the manufacturers to directly purchase or lease diagnostic tools and order products and parts. *********************************************************************************** Atypical BSE Case Detected in South Carolina USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service last week announced the finding of an atypical case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (in-sef-o-lop-athy). The approximately five-year-old or older beef cow tested positive following routine surveillance protocols at a slaughterhouse in South Carolina. The animal possessed a radio frequency identification tag associated with a herd in Tennessee. USDA APHIS and state animal health officials will conduct a thorough investigation of the case. Atypical BSE cases occur rarely and spontaneously, often in older cattle. This is only the nation's 7th case of atypical BSE, following a previous incident in 2018. This is the nation’s 7th detection of BSE. Of the six previous U.S. cases, the first, in 2003, was a case of classical BSE in a cow imported from Canada; the rest have been atypical. U.S. Cattlemen's Association president Justin Tupper responded, “This animal never entered slaughter channels and at no time entered the food supply chain due to the effectiveness of the surveillance team.” *********************************************************************************** Data Shows Few Farm Estates Must File Estate Tax Return New data from USDA's Economic Research Service shows that less than one percent of farm estates created in 2022 must file an estate tax return. Created in 1916, the federal estate tax is a tax on the transfer of property to a person's heirs upon death. In 2022, the Federal estate tax exemption amount was $12.06 million per person, and the federal estate tax rate was 40 percent. Under the present law, the estate of a person who owns assets above the exemption amount at death must file a federal estate tax return. However, only returns with an estate above the exemption after deductions for expenses, debts, and bequests will pay federal estate tax. Researchers estimate that in 2022, 39,500 estates were created from principal operator deaths. Of those estates, ERS forecasts that 305, or 0.77 percent, will be required to file an estate tax return, and a further 87, or 0.22 percent, will likely owe Federal estate tax. *********************************************************************************** USDA Offers Assistance to Help Organic Dairy Producers The Department of Agriculture recently announced assistance for dairy producers with the new Organic Dairy Marketing Assistance Program/ The program helps dairy producers mitigate market volatility, higher input and transportation costs, and unstable feed supply and prices that have created unique hardships in the organic dairy industry. USDA’s Farm Service Agency is offering $104 million in grants to dairy operations to assist with projected marketing costs in 2023, calculated using their marketing costs in 2022. Organic dairy producers have faced significant and unique increases in their marketing costs, compounded by increases in feed and transportation costs and the limited availability of organic grain and forage commodities. FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux says, “Without assistance, many organic dairies, particularly small organic dairies, will cease production.” FSA will begin accepting applications for the program on May 24, 2023. Eligible producers include certified organic dairy operations that produce milk from cows, goats and sheep. *********************************************************************************** Gas Prices Steady Heading into Holiday Weekend As Americans gear up for the start of the summer driving season with Memorial Day weekend, the nation's average price of gasoline is unchanged from a week ago at $3.51 per gallon. The national average diesel price fell 3.2 cents last week and stands at $3.94 per gallon. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “We’ve seen more states see prices climb than fall, which has been driven by oil’s volatility as debt ceiling discussions are ongoing.” De Haan expects prices to rise slightly this week, especially if there are positive developments in the debt ceiling discussions. With continued discussions about reaching a bipartisan agreement to raise the nation’s debt limit, the price of oil has remained somewhat volatile, given the economic repercussions that come with the situation. U.S. retail gasoline demand saw a rise of 1.1 percent last week, and the most common U.S. gas price was 3.39 per gallon, up ten cents from last week.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 23, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. new home sales for April is set for 9 a.m. Traders will keep watch on the latest weather forecasts and digest Monday afternoon's Crop Progress reports. Weather A weak system continues to bring showers to the Southeast Tuesday. Isolated to scattered showers will continue across the Plains and Canadian Prairies as well, being heaviest and most widespread across parts of Alberta. Showers across the southwestern Plains will continue to ease drought conditions.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 22, 2023 |

Winter Wheat Harvest Finds Disappointing Yields The 2023 Wheat Quality Council’s Winter Wheat Tour wrapped up last week with disappointing numbers. After scouting for three days, the tour calculated an average yield of 30 bushels per acre. While an estimated 8.1 million acres of wheat were planted last fall, the winter wheat crop has suffered from a multi-year drought that cut yields and resulted in abandoned fields in Kansas, Nebraska, and Oklahoma. The official tour projection for the total production of wheat to be harvested in Kansas is 178 million bushels. Kansas Wheat says that number shows tour participants thought abandonment might be quite a bit higher than normal at almost 27 percent. The production number is the average of estimated predictions from tour participants who scouted 652 fields across the area. Based on May 1 conditions, NASS predicted the crop to be 191 million bushels, a yield of 29 bushels per acre, and abandonment at 18.5 percent. *********************************************************************************** Updates Begin on Improving Mississippi River Infrastructure The Army Corps of Engineers held a groundbreaking ceremony marking the beginning of repairs to a lock and dam on the Upper Mississippi River that’s crucial to shipping corn and other commodities. Lock and Dam 25, almost 50 miles north of St. Louis, hasn’t been extensively repaired since it was constructed in the early 20th century. Funding for the project was included in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The Illinois Corn Growers Association, long at the forefront of advocating for updates to the Lock and Dam, applauded the development. “Our hope is this will be the beginning of a waterfall of infrastructure work on the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers,” says ICGA President Matt Rush. Lock and Dam 25 is crucially important to corn growers as 60 percent of corn and soybean exports are transported on the Mississippi River. The river is important in shipping products both domestically and abroad. *********************************************************************************** USDA Previews Emergency Relief for Agricultural Producers Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack plans to roll out $3.7 billion in Emergency Relief Program and Emergency Livestock Relief Program assistance to crop and livestock producers. The funds will help producers who sustained losses due to a qualifying natural disaster event during calendar year 2022. USDA is sharing the information early to allow producers time to gather documents in advance of program delivery. “U.S. ag producers nationwide endured crippling natural disaster events in 2022, including a mega-drought, hurricane, flooding, and wildfires,” Vilsack says. “While we have streamlined our delivery of natural disaster assistance, funding is limited and significantly less than the estimated losses.” He also says they’re designing payment factors to help as many producers as possible to offset the significant financial impacts resulting from these ongoing and widespread natural disasters. Producers who have participated in FSA programs likely have the required forms on file. Contact your local USDA Service Center with questions. *********************************************************************************** Senators Ask BLM to Withdraw Draft Rule South Dakota Senator Mike Rounds and 15 other senators sent a letter to the Bureau of Land Management asking them to withdraw the proposed Public Lands Rule. The bureau says this rule would let conservationists lease federal land. The senators say it’s intended to set conservation equal to other land uses. The proposal would negatively affect western states, including South Dakota because their economies rely on public land for cattle grazing, energy development, and tourism. “It’s clear that anti-grazing and anti-development organizations would abuse this tool to attempt to halt ranching and block access to our nation’s abundant energy reserves located on public lands,” the letter says. Supporters of this rule say land conservation is necessary to protect the environment. They argue that the rule will not impede current land uses. The BLM website says the bureau will host public meetings, virtually and in person, to discuss the proposed rule. *********************************************************************************** Bill Incentivizes Use of Cover Crops Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and several state representatives introduced bipartisan legislation to incentivize farmers to plant cover crops to help boost environmental conservation. The Conservation Opportunity and Voluntary Environment Resilience Program (COVER) Act would provide farmers who plant cover crops a crop insurance discount of $5 per acre. It will also lower the long-term cost of crop insurance by making the Pandemic Cover Crop Program permanent, authorizing additional funding for technical assistance in accessing the Good Steward Cover Crop Program, and creating a Soil Health Pilot Program. “Farmers are the original conservationists.,” says Brown. “By utilizing cover crops, they can increase yield, decrease pesticide use, and reduce runoff into waterways, which is good for everyone.” Planting cover crops slows erosion, promotes soil health, improves water availability, suppresses weeds, attracts pollinators, helps control pests and diseases, and increases biodiversity. Cover crops increase yields and reduce crop insurance losses caused by prevented planting. *********************************************************************************** Beef Output Will Drop in 2024 U.S. beef production in 2024 will drop eight percent to 24.7 billion pounds amid tighter supplies of cattle. A USDA report says aggregate domestic beef disappearance will fall more than seven percent to 52.8 pounds per capita on a retail-equivalent basis. That’s the lowest level since record-keeping started in 1970. The declining output will push cattle prices to new highs in 2024. A “core portion” of the beef herd is still seeing drought conditions in the Southern Plains, despite improving conditions. That resulted in a shortage of hay. Inventories on May 1 dropped 13 percent year-over-year to the lowest point in a decade. Despite recent rains, for some producers, the very-low hay supplies may not offset poor pastures to sustain herds this summer and allow producers to retain breeding stock,” USDA says. “As a result, culling continues at a relatively high rate.” On a positive note, feed prices will likely decline.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 22, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - DTN Summit Event Tuesday, Dicamba Deadlines Loom OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of May 21. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Ag Summit Series: Our second DTN Ag Summit Series virtual event is May 23 at 8:30 a.m. CDT. You'll hear crop updates from farmers across the country, as well as learn the latest crop, fertilizer, weather and markets updates from DTN's formidable staff of reporters and analysts. Registration allows you to both watch the event live as well as view rebroadcasts if you missed a session, and you can share those rebroadcasts with others in your operation. 2. Will wheat stay bearish?: Wheat markets continue to take an anti-fundamentals drop. Tough to swallow following the 2023 Wheat Quality Council Hard Winter Wheat tour, which put expected wheat yields near lows not seen since President John F. Kennedy proclaimed, "Ich bin ein Berliner." That would be 1963, for those keeping score. Prices have many exclaiming "Was zur Holle," though our analysts note the current drop is due to speculator selloffs in the futures market. We'll be keeping tabs on all that through the week. 3. Continued drought reduction: We continue to watch the colors lighten on the weekly U.S. Drought Monitor map, and now also turn lighter on the latest Climate Prediction Center's U.S. Seasonal Drought Outlook map, thanks to continued precipitation systems the past few weeks. DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick notes that just over 20% of the Lower 48 states are currently in drought, the lowest level of drought conditions since June 2020. This week a ridge in the West moves east, and the weak trough behind it should bring showers to the High Plains, perhaps bringing even further drought reduction. Showers could stymie planting a little in the Dakotas, but overall crop progress should keep progressing. 4. Soybean head scratcher: Beans also have a lot of us scratching "die Kopfe." We'll watch for signs of any changes in the bean complex this week. 5. Herbicide deadlines loom: Early planted beans are running into a conflict with dicamba postemergence application rules in many states. The latest rules outlaw post application when beans reach V4 or June 12, whichever comes first. Many early planted fields will likely hit the size limit well ahead of the cutoff date. Watch for the details from DTN Crops Editor Jason Jenkins this week.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 22, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the latest weather forecasts and keep tabs on the latest crop comments. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT, but more attention will turn to the latest reports of planting progress in USDA's 3 p.m. Crop Progress report. Weather A leftover front in the Southeast will bring scattered showers and potential for heavy rain to the Southeast on Monday and into Tuesday as well. Meanwhile, daily showers and thunderstorms will pop up for the Plains this week. For Monday, that targets Montana and the southwestern Plains areas and may fall over areas in deep drought not just Monday but throughout the week as well.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 19, 2023 |

Black Sea Grain Deal Extended Two Months The Black Sea grain deal has been extended for another two months, something the United Nations calls “good news for the world.” The news came one day before Russia could have quit the deal because of obstacles to its grain and fertilizer exports. Reuters says Turkey’s president made the announcement, later confirmed by Russia, Ukraine, and the U.N. Moscow was unwilling to extend the deal unless some demands regarding its own ag exports were met. While Russia’s ag exports of food and fertilizer aren’t directly affected by Western sanctions, restrictions on payments, logistics, and insurance are a barrier to shipments. Russia’s ambassador to the U.N. says the deal was extended because they haven’t lost hope that the problems raised by Russia will be resolved. The U.N. also says it hopes that exports of food and fertilizers, including ammonia, from Russia and Ukraine will get to global supply chains safely and predictably. *********************************************************************************** Opposition to House Ag Appropriations Bill The House Agriculture Committee’s Ag Appropriations Subcommittee passed its fiscal year 2024 agriculture funding bill. The National Farmers Union says the legislation includes harmful provisions that would prevent USDA from completing a long-awaited Packers and Stockyards Act rule to protect family farmers and ranchers from abuses of market power by the meat industry. “Our markets are heavily consolidated and ripe for manipulation,” says NFU President Rob Larew. Chris Gibbs, president of Rural Voices USA, a leading rural advocacy group, says it’s hard to watch lawmakers who largely represent rural communities gut funding that goes directly to those same rural communities. “By slashing USDA funding by one-third, the House GOP is showing how backward their priorities are,” Gibbs says. “Instead of allowing rural communities to play a meaningful role in industries of the future, this proposal will leave rural communities behind.” Both groups say rural communities cannot stay silent on proposals like this. *********************************************************************************** NPPC Outlines Industry Priorities During House Hearing Scott Hays, president of the National Pork Producers Council, testified before the House Ag Committee’s Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry and talked about pork priorities. Hays presented policy priorities ranging from funding that supports programs to safeguard the nation’s food supply against the threat of foreign animal diseases to initiatives that expand foreign market access for U.S. agricultural products. Hays outlined the economic challenges facing pig farmers as hog prices have moderated significantly since 2022. Production costs have risen drastically, the industry faced trade retaliation, supply chain issues, labor shortages, and the unfavorable Supreme Court decision on Prop 12. “This is putting a pinch on the pork industry and could drive consolidation at the farm level as producers may be forced to exit the industry,” Hays says. Other priorities include a one-year extension of Livestock Mandatory Price Reporting, opposition to proposed changes to the Packers and Stockyards Act, and others. *********************************************************************************** Biofuels Must Be a Part of Climate Solutions Biofuels like ethanol must not be ignored as a climate solution. That was part of the testimony by Kansas Corn Growers CEO Josh Roe in front of a House Oversight Subcommittee hearing. The discussion centered on vehicle emissions rules and the electric vehicle transition. “Unfortunately, current and proposed EPA rules prevent us from being part of the solution,” says Roe. “While we believe electric vehicles will play a vital role in achieving climate goals, other complementary alternatives like biofuels have a key role to play but are being pushed aside.” Roe also questioned the EPA proposal that considers electric vehicles as zero emission. “They aren’t truly zero-emission vehicles,” he says. “While they don’t have a tailpipe, you still need to account for the emissions that come from the power grid.” The U.S. power grid is 60 percent powered by coal and natural gas, and EPA rules don’t account for upstream emissions. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Endorses Legislation Protecting Animal Health The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association announced its support the Foreign Animal Disease Prevention, Surveillance, and Rapid Response Act of 2023. The bipartisan legislation would continue making critical investments in foreign animal disease response programs currently overseen by USDA. “The threat of a foreign animal disease outbreak in the U.S. represents an existential threat to every cattle producer,” says NCBA President Todd Wilkinson. “As a cattle producer, it is reassuring to see bipartisan support for legislation like this, which will help our industry prepare for, and ultimately prevent a national crisis.” The Act will provide additional funding for three important animal health programs established through the 2018 Farm Bill, including the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank, the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program, and the National Animal Health Laboratory Network. “Together, these three form a three-legged stool that represents our strategy for protecting the cattle and beef industries,” Wilkinson adds. *********************************************************************************** First Quarter Solid for Some Animal Product Exports A USDA report says a comparison between first-quarter 2023 exports of seven animal products with the exports from the same time last year shows some improvement. Four of the categories were year-over-year higher and three were lower so far during this year. In the first quarter of 2023, lamb and mutton exports were up 31 percent, pork was up eight percent, broilers 2.5 percent higher, and dairy product exports were six percent higher than in 2022. USDA says the increases were due mostly to favorable prices and the depreciating value of the dollar. Beef and veal exports were eight percent lower than last year because of lower U.S. production in cattle-producing areas hit by extended drought. Egg and egg-product shipments were 22 percent lower than last year, and turkey exports were 21 percent lower. Fewer egg and turkey shipments were caused by export restrictions related to high pathogenic avian influenza.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 19, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets With the 2023 Hard Winter Wheat Quality Tour wrapped up and the Black Sea grain deal extended for another two months, will we see a quieter grain market Friday? Traders will keep tabs on the latest weather forecasts, but are developing low expectations for export business. USDA's cattle on-feed report for May 1 is due out at 2 p.m. CDT and many expect the on-feed total to be down almost 4% from a year ago. Weather A front is found from the Central Plains through the central Midwest Friday morning, producing some scattered showers in the Midwest, but heavy rain in the Southern Plains. Morning showers will die out across the Plains but redevelop over the south later in the day, which may become severe. Across the Midwest, showers will be lighter. A brief shot of colder air and smoke from Canadian wildfires are following behind the front.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 18, 2023 |

House Ag Spending Bill Released, Markup Thursday The House Agriculture Appropriations bill released this week provides $26.3 billion for total funding, $532 million below the 2023 funding level. The bill provides $17.1 billion to the Department of Agriculture, which is $8.6 billion below current fiscal year spending and $11.7 billion below the budget request. The bill also provides $8.1 billion in funding repurposed from unobligated balances from pandemic-era programs. Conservative leaders in the House say the bill reins in wasteful spending by redirecting billions in American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act funding to help America’s producers and rural communities. The changes include a $32 billion decrease in mandatory SNAP spending from FY23 levels due to the end of increased pandemic-era benefits and a decrease in participation rates. The proposal also eliminates funding for equity initiatives and climate change, and saves $1 billion by restricting the discretionary use of the Commodity Credit Corporation. The House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee was scheduled to markup the bill Thursday morning. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Introduced to Protect Farms from Feral Hogs Lawmakers this week in the Senate introduced the Feral Swine Eradication Act. The legislation would extend and make permanent a pilot program to safeguard public health, agriculture, and local ecosystems against the threat of feral swine. Senators Tommy Tuberville, an Alabama Republican and John Cornyn, A Texas Republican, introduced the bill. Tuberville says, "Over the past five years, feral swine have impacted more than 173,000 acres in Alabama, yet the pigs are still running rampant throughout the South." There are approximately six million feral hogs across the United States, which cause more than $1.5 billion in damages each year. The Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program was established in the 2018 Farm Bill to respond to rampant feral swine outbreaks and was implemented by the Department of Agriculture. The program includes feral swine removal, restoration efforts, and assistance to producers for feral swine control through grants with non-federal partners. *********************************************************************************** Senate Ag Committee Advances Torres Small Nomination The Senate Agriculture Committee Wednesday advanced the nomination of Xochitl Torres Small to be Deputy Secretary of Agriculture to the full Senate for consideration. Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, says, " Ms. Torres Small has a proven track record and a wide-ranging background that make her an ideal candidate to help lead the nearly 100,000 public servants at USDA." Ranking Member John Boozman, an Arkansas Republican, added, "She has shown herself to be a thoughtful leader while overseeing the rural development mission, and I believe those qualities will be an asset in this new role." Torres Small was confirmed by the United States Senate to serve as the Under Secretary for Rural Development on October 7, 2021. She was nominated to serve as Deputy Secretary by President Joe Biden in February following the resignation announcement by Jewel Bronaugh, who stepped away from the role to spend more time with family. *********************************************************************************** Truterra Pays $9 Million to Carbon Sequestering Farmers Truterra, LLC Thursday announced the results of its carbon program for 2022, which paid more than $5.1 million to farmers for approximately 262,000 metric tons of carbon stored. In the first two years of the program, Truterra has paid more than $9 million to farmers for over 462,000 metric tons of carbon. Truterra President Tom Ryan says, “By working with and through farmer's trusted advisor, the carbon program has continued to achieve great success in its second year.” The company reports that 273 farmers participating in the 2022 carbon program, receiving an average total payment per participating farmer of over $18,000. Truterra is a self-described leading sustainability solutions provider, advancing and connecting sustainability efforts throughout the food system at scale – from farmers to ag retailers to value chain collaborators, including food and fiber companies.  Truterra was launched in 2016 by Land O'Lakes, Inc., a member-owned cooperative that spans the spectrum from agricultural production to consumer foods. *********************************************************************************** Food Spending Decreased Unevenly Across States in 2020 The COVID-19 pandemic in the United States disrupted the food industry in 2020, according to fresh data from USDA’s Economic Research Service. Inflation-adjusted total U.S. food expenditures were 6.6 percent lower in 2020 than in 2019. However, individual states experienced varying degrees of food spending decline. The ERS developed State-level Food Expenditure Series helps to illustrate annual food spending changes across States since 1997, including Washington, DC. From 2019 to 2020, each state saw decreases in inflation-adjusted, per capita total food spending. The smallest decreases in food spending were in Iowa, South Carolina, and North Carolina. The states that saw the largest decreases in inflation-adjusted, per-capita food spending were Hawaii, Washington, DC, Florida, and Nevada. These states typically have large out-of-state population inflows from nonresident workers and tourists. The spending changes occurred as health concerns and mobility restrictions during the first year of the pandemic led consumers to spend less at restaurants and other eating-out establishments. *********************************************************************************** Dairy Checkoff Building Trust with Youth The dairy checkoff is bringing a new approach to building trust with young Americans by helping high school curriculum writers across the country incorporate accurate science behind dairy farming. The “On The Farm STEM” experience is co-funded by National Dairy Council and Midwest Dairy. The effort brings leading science educators and curriculum directors to dairy farms to discover ideas that can fit into high school curriculum. Ultimately, the program, created in partnership with the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, will offer a science-based counterbalance to misunderstanding about how dairy is responsibly produced by farmers and its contributions to health and wellness. National Dairy Council’s Lindsay Datlow says, “With education and action, today’s youth will be empowered to understand how dairy foods fit into an overall healthy and sustainable food system.” Some dairy-focused classroom materials already are being used in school pilot programs. The curriculum is expected to be implemented in several states by early 2024.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 18, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. U.S. existing home sales and U.S. leading indicators for April are due at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage at 9:30 a.m. After Russia agreed to extend the Black Sea grain deal Wednesday, traders will be watching for shipments out of Ukraine and the latest weather forecasts. Weather A cold front is moving through the Upper Midwest down through the Central Plains on Thursday with scattered showers likely, especially during the afternoon. Moisture ahead of the front should be good enough to produce widespread precipitation across western Kansas and the Panhandles which could be heavy, helping to ease drought conditions in these areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 17, 2023 |

Biden Administration Announces $11 Billion Clean Energy Investment The Biden Administration Tuesday announced the availability of nearly $11 billion in grants and loan opportunities to help rural energy and utility providers. The funding will help bring affordable, reliable, clean energy to communities across the country. The announcement is the single largest investment in rural electrification since President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Rural Electrification Act into law in 1936. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says that through the effort, the administration is "supporting thousands of new jobs and helping lower energy costs in the future." Funding is available through two programs under the Inflation Reduction Act. Specifically, the Department of Agriculture will open a Letter of Interest process for the Empowering Rural America program, making $9.7 billion available to eligible rural electric. USDA will also open a Letter of Interest process for the Powering Affordable Clean Energy program, making $1 billion available in partially forgivable loans to renewable-energy developers and electric service providers. *********************************************************************************** USDA Releases Black Sea Trade Vulnerability Dashboard The Department of Agriculture Tuesday released a dashboard demonstrating the scope of Black Sea grain and oilseed trade. USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service says millions of tons of grain are shipped through the region annually, making the Black Sea region a major supplier of agricultural commodities worldwide. The dashboard demonstrates the impacts Black Sea trade disruption can have on food access in various countries. The analysis focuses on key commodities, including barley, corn, soybean oil, sunflower seed oil, and wheat. For each country, the largest suppliers are shown, which allows the dashboard to illustrate the potential impact of Russia's war in Ukraine. USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, Alexis M. Taylor, says, "By looking at the Vulnerabilities to Trade Disruption dashboard, it becomes very clear how big an impact Russia's war has on food security in countries." The dashboard and all other USDA FAS tools and reports are available at www.fas.usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Socially Disadvantaged farms Concentrated in South and West Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers tend to be more concentrated in southern and western regions of the country. USDA defines socially disadvantaged farmers as those belonging to groups subject to racial or ethnic prejudice. In some counties, the proportion of operations classified as racially or ethnically socially disadvantaged is more than 58 percent, such as in parts of Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Florida. Overall, socially disadvantaged farms accounted for 9.4 percent of the two million farms in the United States. In 2017, 1.3 percent of all producers identified themselves as Black or African American only, 1.7 percent identified as American Indian or Alaska Native only, 0.6 percent identified as Asian only, 0.1 percent as Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander only, and 0.8 percent of all producers reported more than one race. In addition, 3.3 percent of all producers of any race indicated Hispanic, Latino, or Spanish origin. *********************************************************************************** 2022 National Beef Quality Audit Shows Efficiency Improvements The beef cattle industry is producing a high-quality product that consumers want more efficiently. NCBA this week announced the findings as part of the 2022 Beef Checkoff-funded National Beef Quality Audit results. Since 1991, the Beef Checkoff-funded National Beef Quality Audit has delivered a set of guideposts and measurements for cattle producers to help determine quality conformance of the U.S. beef supply. NCBA's Josh White says, "The NBQA is an important tool for the industry to identify where improvements are being made and where there are opportunities to capture more value.” When comparing 2016 and 2022 NBQAs, the largest improvement was overall increased efficiency across the beef supply chain. Key findings include market segments no longer consider food safety as a purchasing criterion, but as an expectation, and market sectors indicated that their companies strive to increase their sustainability. The NBQA, conducted approximately every five years, provides an understanding of what quality means to the various industry sectors, and the value of those quality attributes. *********************************************************************************** Certified Angus Beef Expands Offering with Grass-Fed Beef Consumer demand for high-quality beef has been a long-time sales driver for Certified Angus Beef, and ultimately, it has increased demand for superior Angus genetics. As consumer preferences evolve, the brand is growing to provide premium beef for every liking. And now, that will include a grass-fed option: Certified Angus Beef Grass-Fed by Niman Ranch. Certified Angus Beef President John Stika says, “This product will represent a small portion of total sales, but it's an important addition that helps us meet the needs of consumers who have different preferences.” The Certified Angus Beef Grass-Fed by Niman Ranch product will make up less than one percent of the total CAB supply. A niche product, the grass-fed, natural beef will initially only be available through a few, exclusive restaurants and grocery stores. Consistent with all Certified Angus Beef brand products, the grass-fed beef must meet all ten specifications to qualify for the brand. *********************************************************************************** Lawmakers Ask Automakers to Keep AM Radio A group of more than 100 lawmakers this week signed a letter to automakers expressing concerns about the removal and planned removal of AM radio receivers in vehicles. Representative Greg Pence, an Indiana Republican, led the effort, and says, “If automakers are seeking to remove access to AM radio, my constituents deserve an explanation as to how this could impact their lives and public safety.” The letter highlights the need of rural Americans to access AM radio, given limited internet and cell phone connectivity. The letter states, “We urge you to maintain AM radio receivers in all vehicles and prioritize consumers and public safety.” Federal data shows that more than 75 radio stations, mostly AM stations, cover at least 90 percent of the U.S. population and are equipped with backup communications equipment for broadcasting during public emergencies. There have been reports that automakers, including Ford, Volkswagen, BMW, Mazda, Volvo, Tesla, Polestar, Rivian, GM, and Mercedes Benz, removed, or are planning to remove, broadcast AM radio receivers from all-electric vehicles.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 17, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. housing starts in April is set for 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and watch for any news regarding the Black Sea grain deal. Weather An old front and humid weather will produce scattered showers in the Southeast on Wednesday. Isolated showers and thunderstorms will develop in the High Plains ahead of a cold front that is moving through the Northern Plains. The front is producing scattered light showers, not enough to impact planting for too many areas today

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 16, 2023 |

Lawmakers Introduce Legislation to Classify Corn as an Advanced Biofuel New legislation introduced Monday in the House of Representatives would allow for ethanol from corn starch to qualify as an advanced biofuel. The Fuels Parity Act would also require the Environmental Protection Agency to use the Argonne GREET model to determine the greenhouse gas emission profile of biofuels under the RFS. Corn is currently prohibited from qualifying as an advanced biofuel, even if it can meet the required scientific thresholds, by a provision in the 2007 RFS expansion known as the “corn discrimination clause.” No other feedstock is limited – only corn starch used for ethanol. Allowing corn to qualify as an advanced biofuel would incentivize lower emissions from ethanol production and allow corn to access another bucket of the RFS. If ethanol can meet the scientific thresholds, then it should be allowed to qualify as an advanced biofuel and generate an advanced biofuel RIN, according to lawmakers introducing the legislation. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Ethanol Bill Would Level the Playing Field The National Corn Growers Association supports the Fuels Parity Act introduced in the House of Representative's Monday. NCGA President Tom Haag says the legislation "Recognizes the declining carbon intensity of today's low-carbon ethanol and helps level the playing field." Published analysis from the Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory concludes corn ethanol's carbon intensity decreased 23 percent from 2005 to 2019 due to increased corn yield, reduced fertilizer intensity and improved ethanol production efficiency, with corn ethanol now between 44 and 52 percent lower in carbon intensity than the gasoline it replaces. Argonne's analysis is consistent with recent research from Environmental Health and Engineering that corn ethanol today is 46 percent lower in carbon intensity than gasoline, with the potential for further reductions from additional corn feedstock and production process improvements. Under the law, advanced biofuels must deliver a 50 percent or more reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to gasoline, a requirement today's ethanol now meets. *********************************************************************************** New Survey Reveals Farmer Use of Automation Growers now spend an average of $500,000 a year on automation in response to the persistent ag labor shortage. Western Growers discovered the data in its Specialty Crop Automation Report. The report, which tracks and measures industry progress in harvest automation across the fresh produce industry, is part of the Western Growers Global Harvest Automation Initiative, which aims to accelerate ag automation by 50 percent in ten years. Most progress was made in the weeding and harvest assist segments; market-ready solutions are able to meet grower economic targets and alleviate key challenges, such as lack of labor availability. Growers reported ROIs for weeding solutions of less than one to two years, depending on the type of crop and technology used. Growers want more trained agtech personnel, with 50 percent indicating that they had internal employees who dedicated the majority of their time to the integration of automation investments. *********************************************************************************** Groundwater Organizations see Nitrate Contamination As Top Concern New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service finds that 30 percent of groundwater organizations cite nitrate contamination as a groundwater quality concern. Nitrates can come from animal manure and chemical fertilizers that leach into groundwater. When groundwater pumping exceeds the volume of groundwater recharge, the concentration of contaminants like nitrates can increase. Nitrate contamination is a concern on more than half of the groundwater-fed irrigated acreage within groundwater organization service areas. USDA’s Survey of Irrigation Organizations collected information on the estimated 735 local entities that manage on-farm groundwater use through statutory, regulatory, or other powers. While nitrate contamination was the most common groundwater quality concern reported, contamination by salinity, other nutrients, and heavy metals are a concern for 27, 19, and 18 percent of groundwater organizations, respectively. USDA’s Economic Research Service says contaminated groundwater can harm crops or make the water unusable for irrigation entirely. *********************************************************************************** Rodale Institute Applauds USDA Investments in Organic Farmers The Department of Agriculture is expanding opportunities for organic farmers, a welcome investment, according to the Rodale Institute. USDA announced the expanded opportunities last week. Through the newly-established Organic Market Development Grant Program, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service will issue up to $75 million in competitive grants to fund projects designed to expand and improve markets for domestically produced organic products. In addition, the Farm Service agency increased the cost share amount under the Organic Certification Cost Share Program, which helps organic producers cover organic certification costs, to the maximum amount allowed by statute. Rodale Institute CEO Jeff Tkach says, “Consumer demand for organic products is growing rapidly and the USDA’s support will help American farmers meet the needs of the market.” Recent USDA data shows farms and ranches in the United States sold over $11 billion in certified organic commodities in 2021, a 13 percent increase from 2019. *********************************************************************************** Gas Prices Edge Higher, Diesel Lower For the first time in several weeks, the nation's average gasoline price increased, rising four cents from a week ago to $3.51 per gallon. The national average is down 14.9 cents from a month ago and 95.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell four cents in the last week and stands at $3.97 per gallon, $1.59 lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, "We're likely to soon see gasoline prices slip to their largest year-on-year deficit since COVID hit, when prices fell over $1 per gallon from 2019, so the relief at the pump has been significant." With continued discussion over the U.S. hitting its debt limit, oil prices have seen additional volatility. De Haan adds that it’s looking more likely that, barring a major hurricane or series of refinery outages, the national average may not end up hitting the $4 per gallon mark.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 16, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on U.S. retail sales for April is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, followed by U.S. industrial production at 8:15 a.m. Traders continue to keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and watch for any update of the Black Sea grain deal. Weather A small system is moving east along the Ohio Valley, producing scattered showers and thunderstorms, some of which may be heavy and severe. Additional showers and thunderstorms are expected to pop up to the south of this system as well across the Gulf Coast and Southeast. Drier weather elsewhere will help to dry out areas that were flooded last week.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 15, 2023 |

USDA Releases U.S. Crop Production Outlook USDA projects a record U.S. corn crop of 15.3 billion bushels, up over 10 percent on increases to both area and yield. The yield projection is 181.5 bushels per acre. The 2023-2024 corn outlook calls for larger production, greater domestic use and exports, and higher ending stocks. Total corn supplies are forecast at 16.7 billion bushels. The season-average farm price is expected to be $4.80 a bushel, down $1.80 from the prior year. The U.S. soybean crop will be 4.51 billion bushels, up five percent from last year on higher yields. Soybean supplies are projected to be up four percent to 4.75 billion bushels. The season-average soybean price is forecast more than $2 lower at $12.10 per bushel. The USDA’s all-wheat production is forecast at 1.65 million bushels, up slightly from the previous year. The all-wheat yield is projected at 44.7 bushels, and the season-average price is down to $8 a bushel. *********************************************************************************** Credit Conditions Strong as Interest Rates Climb Agricultural credit conditions in the Tenth District of the Kansas City Fed remained strong, and farm real estate values continued to increase. However, growth has softened. While improvements in farm finances and credit conditions steadied and some lenders expected a deterioration in the months ahead, multiple years of strong incomes continued to keep credit stress low. The outlook for the U.S. farm economy in 2023 remained favorable as prices of key commodities were at multi-year highs. Financial performance and liquidity at agricultural banks remained solid and farm lenders appeared well-positioned to meet higher credit demand through the early months of this year. Farm loan interest rates rose alongside further increases in benchmark rates. The average rate charged on agricultural loans was about 30 basis points higher than the previous quarter and almost 300 basis points higher than a year ago. The farm real estate market has softened as interest rates rose. *********************************************************************************** More Reaction to Supreme Court’s Prop 12 Decision The Supreme Court decision upholding California’s Prop 12 continues to draw strong reactions from America’s agricultural stakeholders. Kansas Republican Senator Roger Marshall says he’s disappointed in the Court’s decision not to strike down Prop 12. “We can’t allow radical state laws to dictate the agricultural practices in every other state,” Marshall says. “This will only increase food costs for people already suffering from food insecurity and drive farmers and ranchers out of business.” Marshall plans to re-introduce his Exposing Agricultural Trade Suppression Act which will prohibit state and local governments from interfering with agricultural production in other states. Iowa’s Ag Secretary Mike Naig says this decision opens the door for the largest states to dictate laws and regulations to the rest of America. “While the ruling was focused on agriculture, it will certainly creep into other industries,” he says. “It will drive the cost of production and food prices higher.” *********************************************************************************** More Elected Officials Concerned About Lack of AM Radio in New Cars Representatives Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin and Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey sent a bipartisan letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency regarding the future of AM radio in new vehicles. They expressed concerns over auto makers’ decision to drop AM radio access in the new electric vehicles that will be coming to market. The members talked about the important role that AM radio plays in providing life-saving information to the public. They also asked FEMA to outline what impact this would have on the nation’s Emergency Alert System and what steps the agency is taking to prevent this from happening in future vehicle models. “AM radio has extensive geographic reach, including areas where there’s little cell service or broadband internet access,” they say in the letter. “Given the growth in electric vehicle sales, it’s vital that FEMA makes clear the impact that no AM radios will have on public safety.” *********************************************************************************** Industry Groups Want More Biomass-Based Diesel in RFS Volumes Clean Fuels Alliance America joined four other trade associations in sending a letter to EPA administrator Michael Regan regarding biofuel volumes in the Renewable Fuels Standard. They want the EPA chief to substantially raise the biomass-based diesel and overall advanced biofuel volumes in the RFS for 2023-2025. The letter highlights the need for strong RFS volumes to support the goals of the National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization. “Our industries need these fuels to decarbonize air transport, long-haul shipping and trucking, home heating, and to meet the needs of our customers and supply chain partners,” the letter says. “The proposed RFS volumes are simply inconsistent with the investments our industries will make to continue expanding production and commercial availability of these fuels by 2025.” The groups also say in the letter that their industries continue to make significant investments in producing, distributing, and using low-carbon fuels, but more can be done. *********************************************************************************** Groups Urge Congress to Reject Increases in Farm Subsidies A group of taxpayer, agriculture, and environmental organizations held a press conference to urge Congressional leadership to reject attempts to increase reference prices for covered commodities. The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition was one of the groups who opposed raising the Price Loss Coverage reference prices in the 2023 Farm Bill at a time when gross farm income is higher than ever. “Taxpayer commodity program subsidies were designed as a safety net tool, triggered when necessary, to help protect against unpredictable losses that are a part of farming,” says Billy Hackett, NSAC Policy Specialist. “It’s not an annual entitlement program for the country’s most successful farms. Ten percent of the farms get 70 percent of the subsidies and throwing money at an unsustainable system is no solution.” The other organizations taking part in the press conference included the Environmental Working Group, FreedomWorks, the National Taxpayers Union, Farm Action, and several others.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 15, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Wheat Tour Highlights Coverage OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of May 14. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Kansas wheat tour: Crop tours are always highly anticipated, but for certain this year commodity markets are listening for how bad conditions are in hard red winter wheat country. We'll report from the annual Wheat Quality Council Hard Winter Wheat Tour starting Tuesday night, with mid-day updates and a full report from tour scouts each evening Tuesday and Wednesday. Final numbers will be available late-morning Thursday. 2. Markets respond to bullish news: We'll continue to track the market's response to Friday's World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report, which sent wheat futures skyward, and what the wheat tour adds to that. There is also continued news coming on Brazil's safrina (second-crop) corn. 3. Change in the weather patterns: The trough of low pressure that has been situated over the West, supplying energy to fire off the past week's thunderstorms, is about to shift. DTN weather forecasters expect a ridge over the West, heating up western North America. At the same time, a new trough moves into Eastern Canada, chilling that area as well as the Midwest and Northeast. We'll watch for bursts of cold that carry a slight chance for frost in far northern U.S. and Canadian Prairies. 4. Ukraine grain deal: In an ongoing issue, we'll again watch for the latest in the Russia-Ukraine grain sales agreement, set to expire May 18. As the AP has reported, the deal has been extended twice so far, and Ukraine officials and allies are seeking another extension to continue the flow of grain to Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Russia continues to balk at those extensions, pushing to tie renewed ability to move its fertilizer supplies into the market stream. 5. Economic reports fill the week: Monday sees the ongoing USDA Crop Progress and grain export inspections reports, as well as soybean crush reports. On the broader economy, April retail sales and industrial production numbers hit Tuesday, with housing starts and Energy Department inventory numbers on Wednesday. Thursday sees weekly U.S. jobless claims, existing home sales and the April U.S. index of leading indicator numbers. May's Cattle on Feed report hits Friday, with DTN analysis coming in that afternoon.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 15, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will be checking for any movement of news on the Black Sea grain initiative and taking in the latest weather forecasts. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by a soybean crush report from the National Oilseeds Processors Association later Monday morning. USDA's Crop Progress report will have new estimates of planting progress at 3 p.m. Weather A small system in the Ozarks is producing areas of showers for the Southern Plains into the southwestern Corn Belt Monday morning and will spread more showers through these areas and into the Ohio Valley Monday night. Some isolated showers may pop up in the West and through the Southeast as well. Drier conditions are forecast for northern zones into Canada.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 12, 2023 |

Supreme Court Rejects Challenge to Prop 12 The U.S. Supreme Court rejected a challenge to California’s Prop 12. The law bans the sale of pork from pigs that are kept in tightly confined spaces. The justices voted 5-4 to uphold a lower court’s decision to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau that sought to invalidate the law. The groups argued that the measure violated a U.S. constitutional provision called the Commerce Clause that courts say gives the federal government the power to regulate interstate commerce, not the states themselves. “While the Constitution addresses many weighty issues, the type of pork chops California merchants may sell is not on that list,” wrote conservative Justice Neil Gorsuch, who authored the Court’s main opinion. The Prop 12 measure was approved by California voters in 2018. It bans in-state sales of pork, veal, and eggs from animals whose confinements didn’t meet space requirements. *********************************************************************************** Reaction to Supreme Court Decision on Prop 12 The National Pork Producers Council reacted negatively to the Supreme Court’s decision on California’s Prop 12. “We are very disappointed with the Supreme Court’s opinion,” says Scott Hays, NPPC president. “Allowing state overreach will increase prices for consumers and drive small farms out of business, leading to more consolidation.” NPPC is still evaluating the Court’s full opinion to fully understand all the implications. “We will continue fighting for our pork farmers and American families against misguided regulations,” Hays adds. Kitty Block, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the U.S., says she’s “delighted” that the Supreme Court upheld California’s Prop 12. “It’s the nation’s strongest farm animal welfare law, and the Court made clear that preventing animal cruelty and protecting public health are core functions of our state governments,” she says. Also, HS-USA “won’t stop fighting until the pork industry stops confining sows in cages so small they can’t turn around.” *********************************************************************************** Senators Slam Plant-Based Dairy Labeling Senators Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and Jim Risch of Idaho led a bipartisan group in calling out the administration’s draft guidance on labeling non-dairy product imitators. The Biden administration’s guidance allows non-dairy products to use dairy names like milk when labeling their products. The Food and Drug Administration contradicted its own regulations by releasing guidance that would allow plant-based products to continue using dairy terms despite not containing dairy or having the nutritional value of dairy products. “The inaction by FDA harms public health as a result of consumer misperception over dairy products’ inherent nutritional value,” the Senators wrote. “As a result, it’s imperative that FDA enforce existing standards of identity for dairy in both current and future guidance.” The two senators have led the charge to crack down on imitation products using dairy’s name. They authored bipartisan legislation called the Dairy Pride Act to combat the unfair labeling practice. *********************************************************************************** Combine Sales Continued Growing in April Combine harvester sales in the U.S. and Canada continued growing while total tractor sales declined below the five-year average. The Association of Equipment Manufacturers says total U.S. ag tractor unit sales decreased in April, down 16 percent year-over-year. Unit sales of four-wheel-drive tractors climbed 54 percent higher, and the 100-plus horsepower segment sales climbed five percent. U.S. self-propelled combine sales grew 23 percent for the month, leading to a year-to-date gain of 72 percent. Sales dropped in both the sub-40 horsepower segment by 20 percent, and the 40-100 horsepower segment dropped 13 percent during April. In Canada, combine harvester sales continued growing, up 51 percent in April and 133 percent year-to-date. Total unit sales in tractors finished the month down 25 percent due to continued losses in all tractor segments. Curt Blades of AEM says, “Strong commodity prices are behind increases in the sales of the larger segments of tractors and harvesters.” *********************************************************************************** Ag Innovation Challenge Deadline Extended The American Farm Bureau Federation has extended the deadline to May 26 for entrepreneurs to apply online for the 2024 Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge. The tenth year of this national business competition showcases U.S. startup companies developing innovative solutions to the challenges faced by America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. Farm Bureau is offering $165,000 in startup funds through the course of the competition, which will culminate in the top ten semi-finalists competing in a live pitch competition in front of Farm Bureau members, investors, and industry representatives at the 2024 Farm Bureau National Convention. “Start-up companies like those we recognize through the Ag Innovation Challenge play an important role in the future of American agriculture,” says AFBF President Zippy Duvall. Detailed eligibility guidelines and the competition timeline can be found at fb.org/challenge. “Farmers rely on continuous improvements powered by innovation to keep providing food, fuel, and fiber,” Duvall says. *********************************************************************************** South Korea Hit by Foot and Mouth Outbreak Authorities in South Korea have ordered the culling of several hundred cattle and put biosecurity measures in place after cases of foot and mouth disease were found in a central province. The Cattle Site says the cases marked the first confirmed outbreak of FMD since January 2019. The current contagion occurred on three farms in a province south of Seoul, the country’s capital. The South Korean Vice Ag Minister says related agencies and local governments were asked to make all-out efforts on preventative measures to stop the further spread of foot and mouth disease. A team was sent to the area to investigate the outbreak, disinfect farms in surrounding areas, and put a 48-hour hold in place on all movement of people or livestock in the area. Foot and Mouth is highly transmissible and causes lesions and lameness in cattle, sheep, goats, and other cloven-hoofed animals. Authorities plan to cull 360 cattle.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 12, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The University of Michigan's index of U.S. consumer sentiment is set for 9 a.m. CDT Friday. But, for grain traders, the highlights of the day are out at 11 a.m. CDT, when USDA releases its WASDE and Crop Production reports. Traders will also check the latest weather forecasts, watch for any export activity and for any news regarding the extension of the Black Sea grain deal. Weather An upper-level system is meandering in the Plains, spreading showers and thunderstorms across the Plains into the Midwest down to the Southeast on Friday. Rain is slow-moving, causing some heavy rain and potential for flooding. Areas in the northern half of the Plains and across parts of Texas stand the best chance at seeing meaningful, heavy rain that could ease drought conditions. But those same showers could become severe storms with the focus around eastern Nebraska and western Iowa for the greatest threats.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 11, 2023 |

Consumer Price Index Increases, Grocery Story Prices Lower The Consumer Price Index rose again in April, but grocery store prices for food declined. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported Wednesday that the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.4 percent in April. The overall food index was unchanged in April, as the food at home index fell 0.2 percent over the month, following a 0.3-percent decrease in March. Four of the six major grocery store food group indexes decreased over the month. The index for fruits and vegetables decreased 0.5 percent in April, and the index for meats, poultry, fish, and eggs declined 0.3 percent. The dairy and related products index decreased 0.7 percent in April as the milk index fell 2.0 percent, the largest decline in that index since February 2015. The nonalcoholic beverages index declined 0.1 percent over the month. In contrast, the index for other food at home rose 0.2 percent in April, following a 0.4-percent increase the previous month. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Steps to Enhance Organic Markets, Support Producers The Department of Agriculture is taking additional steps to strengthen the market for domestically grown organic goods and support producers seeking organic certification. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday announced funding opportunities through USDA's Organic Transition Initiative. Launched in 2022, the program helps existing organic farmers and those transitioning to organic production and processing. Vilsack says, "For many farmers, the transition period before attaining organic certification can be cost-prohibitive, so USDA is also helping mitigate the risk involved for farmers who want to be able to grow and market organic crops." USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service will issue up to $75 million in competitive grants through the new Organic Market Development Grant Program. The Farm Service Agency increased the cost share amount under the Organic Certification Cost Share Program as part of USDA's broader effort to support organic producers. Specifically, FSA will cover up to 75 percent of costs associated with organic certification. *********************************************************************************** Booker-Grassley Bill Offers CRP Reforms Bipartisan legislation introduced by New Jersey Democrat Cory Booker and Iowa Republican Chuck Grassley in the Senate would change the Conservation Reserve Program. The Conservation Reserve Program Reform Act would prioritize enrolling marginal farmland in the CRP, rather than prime farmland. The lawmakers say the legislation would generate more durable wildlife and environmental benefits while reducing competition for productive farmland between the Department of Agriculture and farmers, especially new and beginning farmers. Senator Grassley says, “The reforms in this bill ensure that CRP is not used on highly-productive farmland and instead focus the program on highly-erodible land.” The CRP Reform Act would set CRP's overall acreage cap at 24 million acres for fiscal year 2024 to 2028, with an emphasis on enrolling marginal land. The bill would increase incentives to enroll marginal farmland through the continuous enrollment and grasslands categories while reducing the rental rate for general CRP sign-ups by ten percent. *********************************************************************************** NCGA: Biofuels Should be Used to Lower Auto Emissions The National Corn Growers Association urges the Environmental Protection Agency to use biofuels to reduce automobile emissions. NCGA Chairman Chris Edgington testified to the EPA during a public hearing earlier this week regarding EPA's proposed Multi-Pollutant Emission Standards for model years 2027-2032. Edgington expressed frustration that EPA only looked at one solution, electric vehicles, to lower greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions. The NCGA leader says, "EPA's proposal limits the ability of clean, low-carbon ethanol to contribute greater emission reductions and support affordable options." Edgington encouraged EPA to address the serious limitations of its proposal and work with NCGA to level the playing field and advance the needed rulemaking to improve fuel standards. Edgington added, “Clean, high-octane fuel from mid-level ethanol blends, used as a system with advanced engines, offers an essential pathway for achieving significant greenhouse gas and complementary criteria emission reductions from model year 2027 and later vehicles.” *********************************************************************************** Gene-Editing Produces First Calf Resistant to Viral Disease Scientists have collaborated to produce the first gene-edited calf with resistance to bovine viral diarrhea virus, a virus that costs the U.S. cattle sector billions of dollars annually. Over the past 20 years, the scientific community discovered the main cellular receptor and the area where the virus binds to that receptor, causing infection in cows. Scientists modified the virus binding site in this recent study to block infection. The first gene-edited calf, named Ginger, was born healthy on July 19, 2021. The calf was observed for several months and then later challenged with the virus to determine if she could become infected. She was housed for a week with a BVDV-infected dairy calf that was born shedding the virus. Ginger's cells displayed significantly reduced susceptibility to BVDV, which resulted in no observable adverse health effects. USDA says the study demonstrates the possibility of reducing the burden of bovine viral diarrhea virus-associated diseases in cattle by gene editing. *********************************************************************************** Apples and Oranges Top U.S. Fruit Choices Apples held the top spot for total fruit available for consumption in 2021 at more than 26 pounds per person after adjusting for losses. USDA’s Economic Research Service’s loss-adjusted food availability data adjusts food availability data for food spoilage, plate waste, and other losses to more closely approximate actual consumption. People in the United States consumed an average of 1.7 gallons of apple juice, roughly nine pounds of fresh apples, and a total of 3.1 pounds of canned, dried, and frozen apples in 2021. Among the top seven consumed fruits in 2021, apples were the only fruit in which data were available for all five forms, fresh, canned, frozen, dried, and juice. Pineapples were the only other canned option among these seven fruits for which data were available, while strawberries were the only other frozen fruit. Bananas, at 13.2 pounds per person, topped the list of most popular fresh fruits, while orange juice, at 1.9 gallons, was the most popular fruit juice.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 11, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, producer prices for April and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage follows at 9:30 a.m. Traders continue to watch the latest weather forecasts and check for either export sales announcements or cancellations at 8 a.m. Weather A weakening upper-level system is slowly moving into the Plains and already has produced areas of heavy rain and severe weather since Wednesday afternoon. More of the same will occur Thursday, though a bit farther east than Wednesday. Some of the driest areas of the country are finding some good rainfall, though rain is not coming to all places. Still, this is an excellent boost to soil moisture for a lot of areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 10, 2023 |

EIA Expects Less Electricity Demand this Summer, More Generation from Renewables The U.S. Energy Information Administration expects a slightly cooler summer in 2023 will lead to less demand for air conditioning than in 2022. The result will slightly reduce overall electricity demand this summer. EIA expects that despite less electricity demand this summer, more electricity will be generated from renewable sources and natural gas throughout 2023. EIA forecasts this summer will see the second-most U.S. natural gas consumption for electricity generation on record, surpassed only by last summer. EIA continues to expect significant growth in U.S. electricity generation from wind and solar, but the wet winter in California and the western United States should also increase electricity generated from hydropower during the coming months. EIA expects U.S. retail electricity costs will remain higher than before the COVID-19 pandemic. Those higher prices mean that even if households consume less electricity, their electricity bills will likely be similar to or slightly higher than last summer. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeking American Agriculture Feeds Kids and Families Acquisitions The Department of Agriculture plans to purchase various protein items to support activities to leverage American Agriculture to feed kids and families. Potential materials may include dairy, meat, fish, and poultry items. The funds, provided through USDA's Commodity Credit Corporation, will support nearly $1 billion to purchase food for emergency food providers like food banks. The purchases are phase two of the program. Interested parties shall be responsible for ensuring that they have the most up-to-date information about this acquisition. The contract type is anticipated to be firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/definite quantity. Commodities and the products of agricultural commodities acquired under this contract must be a product of the United States and shall be considered to be such a product if it is grown, processed, and otherwise prepared for sale or distribution exclusively in the United States. Potential contractors must meet the AMS vendor qualification requirements to be eligible to submit offers. *********************************************************************************** AFBF Urges USDA to Accept Petition for FMMO Hearing The American Farm Bureau Federation urges the Department of Agriculture to accept the National Milk Producers Federation Federal Milk Marketing Order petition. AFBF says the petition provides a long-overdue comprehensive Federal Milk Marketing Order hearing to ensure that consumers can access fresh milk and dairy products while protecting dairy farmers from potentially harmful market conditions. AFBF President Zippy Duvall calls on USDA to hold a hearing on FMMO reform and asks the department to go further than a recent NMPF petition by asking for mandatory, audited surveys of dairy processors to be used when determining the make allowances factored into dairy pricing. The letter indicates USDA's authority to conduct a mandatory audit under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act. This change and the need for additional reforms were part of a farmer consensus formed at the AFBF-hosted FMMO Forum held in Kansas City, Missouri, last October. NMPF filed its petition on May 1, and USDA must respond to the petition within 30 days. *********************************************************************************** Research: Tinplate Steel Tariffs Will Harm American Consumers The Consumer Brands Association says implementing proposed tariffs of up to 300 percent on tinplate steel imports would increase the cost of canned foods and products by up to 30 percent. The association released two studies on the proposal, which would threaten nearly 40,000 union and non-union manufacturing jobs. The economic impact studies bolster Consumer Brands’ efforts to urge the Department of Commerce and International Trade Commission (I to deny a petition submitted by steel conglomerate Cleveland-Cliffs to impose tariffs of up to 300% on imported tinplate steel from eight countries. Because tinplate is used in hundreds of canned goods – everything from soup to shaving cream – imposing the requested tariffs would raise production costs for U.S. can manufacturers and trigger price hikes for every consumer, as supported by the research. According to the research, the proposed tariffs will increase the cost of canned foods and products by up to 58 cents per product. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Imports of Cut Flowers Grew to $3.3 Billion in 2022 Fresh-cut flowers and plants are popular gifts for special occasions such as Mother’s Day. Many bouquets contain flowers grown in countries where cool, wet climates have historically favored production. In 2022, the United States imported nearly $3.3 billion of cut flowers, plants, and nursery stock products from 81 countries, according to USDA’s Economic Research Service. Imports of fresh-cut roses totaled more than $800 million, while other fresh-cut flowers were valued at a combined $1.1 billion. Live plant imports were valued at nearly $860 million, and imports of other nursery stock products, such as bulbs and greenery, were valued at $492 million. Of the many countries supplying flowers and other nursery stock, Colombia made up the largest import value at $1.2 billion. From 2018 to 2022, Colombia provided about 37 percent of U.S. cut flower and nursery stock value. Other leading suppliers in 2022 included Canada, Ecuador, and the European Union, as well as Mexico, Taiwan, and Costa Rica. *********************************************************************************** USDA, Colorado Introduce Conservation Practice to Address Drought Concerns The Department of Agriculture and Colorado are continuing and strengthening their Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program partnership. Announced this week, the effort supports farmers in Colorado in reducing water use and protecting water quality. Specifically, the newly revised Colorado Republican River project will offer producers a dryland crop production practice on eligible cropland. This option will give producers meaningful tools to continue farming as they work toward permanently retiring water rights and conserving the Ogallala Aquifer for future generations. Through the revised Colorado Republican River Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program partnership, USDA and the State of Colorado will make resources available to program participants who voluntarily enroll in CRP for 14-year to 15-year contracts. The program provides participants with two ways to enroll eligible land. Producers can enroll eligible land in “CP100, Annual Crop Production, Non-Irrigated.” Additionally, participants within the Republican River CREP project area may enroll eligible land in “CP2, Permanent Native Grasses,” “CP4D, Permanent Wildlife Habitat,” and “CP23 or CP23A, Wetland Restoration.”

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 10, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets At 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, the U.S. Labor Department will release the consumer price index for April, a number that will get a lot of attention regarding the future of interest rates. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report, including ethanol, will follow at 9:30 a.m. The U.S. Treasury reports on the federal budget for April at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather forecasts and any news regarding grain shipments in the Black Sea. Weather Waves of showers that have been developing this week continue in the Plains on Wednesday and will spread through more of the region tonight as a weak system in the West approaches. Another batch of showers across the western Gulf of Mexico will move north through the South-Central U.S. throughout the day as well. Other sporadic showers will be possible, but a drier stretch will lead to a nice window for planting before more rain moves through the Midwest later this week and weekend. Mild to warm temperatures continue for most areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 9, 2023 |

Economic Research Service: Farm Income Decline Varies by Region After reaching recent highs in 2021 and 2022, the average net cash income of U.S. farm businesses is expected to decline by 18 percent in 2023 compared with 2022. Farm businesses across the country are forecast to see higher production expenses, lower cash receipts, and lower Government payments in 2023, resulting in lower expected average net cash farm income. However, this overall decline will vary considerably across the country. USDA’s Economic Research Service uses resource regions to depict the geographic specialization in production of U.S. commodities. Farm businesses in the Northern Crescent region, which leads the nation in dairy production, are forecast to see the largest average percentage decrease, 30 percent, while those in the Mississippi Portal, which leads the nation in rice production, are forecast to see the smallest percent decrease, nine percent. Meanwhile, the Fruitful Rim will see an estimated 24 percent decline in average net cash income. *********************************************************************************** AEM Offers Ways to Address the Industry’s Technician Shortage It’s no secret to anyone working in equipment manufacturing the ever-growing technician shortage is a problem poised to get a lot worse before it gets better. According to a 2020 report, the industry may need to fill as many as 73,500 heavy equipment technician positions by 2025. In addition, the report stated equipment manufacturing possesses a job opening rate three times higher than the national average. Among survey respondents, 95 percent agreed with the assertion there was a skills gap in the industry, while 89 percent reported a shortage of workers within their companies. Julie Davis, AEM Senior Director of Workforce and Industry Initiatives, says, “Equipment manufacturers can and should embrace and adopt a number of short-term and long-term strategies to set themselves up for sustained success as it relates to workforce development. AEM offers four tips to businesses for addressing the shortage: focus on retention, fill the talent pipeline, diversify and optimize recruitment strategies, and collaborate with others. *********************************************************************************** March Pork Exports Largest in Nearly Two Years; Beef Exports Show Signs of Rebound March U.S. pork exports were the largest since May 2021, and beef export volumes were the largest since October, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation. March pork exports totaled 260,195 metric tons, up 17 percent year-over-year and the ninth-largest volume on record. Export value was also the ninth largest at $724 million, up 18 percent from a year ago. These results capped a strong first quarter for U.S. pork as exports reached 716,691 metric tons, up 14 percent from a year ago, valued at $1.96 billion. Beef exports totaled 120,495 metric tons in March, down five percent from a year ago. Export value fell 17 percent to $892.6 million, but both volume and value were the highest in five months. Through the first quarter, beef exports were down eight percent year-over-year to 326,494 metric tons, valued at $2.35 billion. March exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts totaled 218 metric tons, down five percent from a year ago. *********************************************************************************** Research Reveals How Grazing Management Affects Cattle Weight Gain USDA’s Agricultural Research Service is completing a 10-year study on grazing practices. The study focuses on the two systems of grazing, season-long grazing and intensive rotational grazing, looking at how the systems affect cattle foraging behavior, diet quality, and yearly weight gain in semi-arid, extensive rangelands. The study showed herds in the multi-paddock rotating system feeding in more linear pathways instead of moving around looking for greener grass and selecting bites of more digestible vegetation. They also fed slower, spent more time on the same patch of grass, and didn't turn their heads around much while feeding, compared with steers in the continuous grazing system. These behaviors of less selective foraging resulted in a lower diet quality, reducing weight gain during the growing season. Results, published in Agriculture, Ecosystems, and Environment, show that large herds grazing in small, homogenous paddocks have little opportunity to move around in ways that let them feed on high-quality diet. *********************************************************************************** Smidt Named AFT’s New Director of Land Use and Protection Research American Farmland Trust has named Sam Smidt as National Director of Land Use and Protection Research to develop and implement the organization’s land use protection research agenda. Among his duties, Smidt will lead the Land Use and Protection Research Initiative, which includes and builds upon the existing Farms Under Threat projects. He will also be part of both AFT’s internal virtual research team that discusses and prioritizes overall research needs and AFT’s farmland protection unit, which will work with Sam to help identify and prioritize research questions that could advance farmland protection and retention efforts and AFT’s policy and program development. With an extensive agricultural background, Smidt is skilled at evaluating and modeling land transformation impacts on human and natural systems. Smidt is a native of Morton, Illinois, and he has graduate degrees in both earth and environmental science and policy from Michigan State University and The University of Iowa. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Fall for Third Straight Week For the third consecutive week, the nation's average gasoline price has fallen, declining 7.5 cents from a week ago to $3.50 per gallon. The national average is down 7.5 cents from a month ago and 80.7 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price declined 6.3 cents in the last week to $4.01 per gallon, $1.51 lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “In addition to gasoline prices declining, the average price of a gallon of diesel will join gasoline in the days ahead, falling below $4 per gallon.” De Haan attributes the decline partly due to oil prices holding near recent lows and the transition to summer gasoline being essentially complete. The debt ceiling concerns have also hit oil markets and remain a threat moving forward, should lawmakers approve a solution to the looming potential shutdown of the U.S. government, oil prices may see a stronger rally.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 9, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets There are no significant reports scheduled Tuesday, but traders will act busy, checking on the latest weather forecasts and watching out for any news regarding the Black Sea grain deal. Outside markets also remain a source of concern and we should soon hear estimates for Friday's WASDE and Crop Production reports. Weather Another day of rain in the Plains is expected for Tuesday, though these showers will be largely disorganized and come in clusters across the region. Even so, there is still a risk of severe weather, mostly centered around Kansas. Mild temperatures continue to promote planting progress where rains are missing.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 8, 2023 |

Food Prices Rise in April The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization reports that food prices rose in April for the first time in a year. The organization says the increases stem from higher sugar, meat, and rice prices. The Food Price Index, which tracks the international prices of commonly-traded food commodities, averaged 127.2 points in April, 0.6 percent higher than in March. That reading was 19 percent below April 2022 but still five percent higher than April 2021. The FAO Sugar Price Index rose almost 18 percent in March, reaching its highest point since October 2011. The Meat Price Index rose 1.3 percent during the month, driven primarily by higher prices for pig meat. The Cereal Price Index dropped 1.7 percent in April and averaged almost 20 percent below April 2022. The Vegetable Oil Price Index dropped 1.3 percent in April, its fifth-straight monthly decline. The FAO Dairy Price Index dropped by 1.7 percent. *********************************************************************************** Smaller U.S. Cattle Herd Squeezing Meatpacker Profits America’s beef cow herd hasn’t been this small since 1962. Drought and the high cost of feed forced producers to cut their herd sizes instead of keeping animals for breeding. Livestock producers who fatten cattle suddenly have leverage over meatpackers as they negotiate cattle prices with organizations like Tyson Foods, JBS, and Cargill. U.S. News says meat processors are assessing the future of consumer demand should beef prices rise, along with cattle supplies and margins, to determine how many animals to slaughter in the months ahead. Cargill says it expects cattle prices will rise further and beef prices to rise as well. “The unknown factor is demand: how much will consumers be willing to pay,” says Tom Windish of Cargill. The amount of money that meatpackers make buying cattle and converting them to meat dropped under $40 per head in April. That’s after reaching over $700 a head in May 2020. *********************************************************************************** Corn Export Sales Hit Marketing-Year Low Point The USDA says corn export sales hit the lowest level since the 2022-2023 marketing year began on September 1. Cancelations led to a net reduction in corn sales during the seven days ending on April 27 of 315,600 metric tons. China canceled shipments of 562,800 metric tons. Meantime, exports of corn during the week hit a marketing-year high of 1.7 million metric tons. Soybean sales fell to 289,700 metric tons, a seven percent week-to-week drop and seven percent lower than the five-year average. China was the largest buyer at 134,300 metric tons. Soybean exports rose 24 percent on the week to 561,200 metric tons. Wheat sales rose 26 percent from the prior week to just over 211,000 metric tons, up 14 percent from the previous four-week average. Mexico was the leading buyer at 72,600 metric tons. Wheat exports during the week hit almost 289,000 metric tons, down five percent from the previous week. *********************************************************************************** NRCS Opens Up Soil Conservationist Positions The Natural Resources Conservation Service will hire team members over the next few years to help implement the $19.5 billion in the Inflation Reduction Act for conservation programs. The NRCS announced new jobs are opening up for soil conservationists. This is part of a broader effort by the agency to help producers develop conservation plans and implement conservation practices, including critical climate-smart practices. “The Inflation Reduction Act represents the single largest investment in climate and clean energy solutions in American history, and the NRCS programs are an important part of our efforts,” says Robert Bonnie, USDA’s Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation. “To help agricultural producers invest in conservation on their farms, ranches, and working forests, we need to grow our team that delivers conservation programs.” The announcements are currently open and close on May 15, 2023. Interested candidates can find more information and apply for the job at USAjobs.gov. *********************************************************************************** Ag Export in 2021 Generate Billions in Economic Activity A new USDA report says exports constitute a significant market for American farm and food products and send ripples of activity through the nation’s economy. The Economic Research Service says America’s agricultural exports, valued at $177.3 billion in 2021, generated an additional $190.5 billion in economic activity. That’s a total of $367.8 billion in overall economic output. On average, that means every $1 of U.S. agricultural products exported generated a total of $2.07 in domestic economic activity. The services, trade, and transportation sectors benefited the most from agricultural exports, generating an estimated $79.5 billion worth of economic activity. On the farm, agricultural exports supported an additional $43.6 billion in business activity beyond the value of the agricultural exports themselves. The impact starts at the farm through purchases of inputs like fuel and fertilizer, spurring additional economy in the manufacturing, trade, and transportation sectors, and the impact continues in many other sectors. *********************************************************************************** USCA Applauds Introduction of the DRIVE Act Last week, Oklahoma Republican Representative Josh Brecheen, himself a fourth-generation rancher, introduced the Deregulation Restrictions on Interstate Vehicles and Eighteen Wheelers Act. The bill would prohibit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration from implementing any rule or regulation requiring vehicles over 26,000 pounds that are engaged in interstate commerce to be equipped with a speed-limiting device set to a maximum speed. In 2022, the FMSCA issued a notice of intent that it was considering rules requiring speed-limiting devices for certain large commercial vehicles. USCA Transportation Committee Chair Steve Hilker says their members are responsible for safely transporting millions of animals. “Livestock haulers must take into consideration the welfare of their cargo, which means avoiding rough road conditions, adjusting speed, and being more aware of their surroundings to prevent animal injuries,” says Hilker. “USCA is opposed to any federal mandate that limits a driver’s autonomy over their own truck and trailer.”

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 8, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and rain coverage amounts. They will also be interested in any news regarding the Black Sea grain deal or U.S. banking system. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A small system is producing a line of thunderstorms across Missouri and Illinois early Monday morning. The line is forecast to weaken this morning but redevelop in the afternoon across parts of the Midwest and Tennessee Valley where heavy rain and severe weather may occur. Other areas of showers and thunderstorms will pop up across the Plains and Midwest throughout the day as well, a continuation of the disorganized nature of storms that occurred over the weekend.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 5, 2023 |

Ag Lenders See Tighter Credit Tied to Regional Bank Collapses OMAHA (DTN) -- With regional banks facing stock-price declines, U.S. senators on Thursday asked community bankers, Farm Credit lenders and representatives from the crop insurance industry about lending stability in agriculture and rural America. Less than a day after Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell expressed support for the banking system with the Fed declaring "the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient," at least two publicly traded regional banks were under pressure from investors. PacWest Bancorp, a California-based bank, saw its share price collapse, and the bank announced it was trying to sell a $2.7 billion loan portfolio. PacWest is now the fourth bank in recent months that is under significant financial pressure. Senators asked bankers about systemic risks within the banking industry and the broader implications for farmers and rural America in a hearing Thursday on agricultural credit and crop insurance held by the Senate Agriculture Subcommittee on Commodities, Risk Management and Trade. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., pointed out the country has seen "three of the four largest bank failures in American history" just since early March. Gillibrand said regulators and the private sector have stabilized the situation "to a point," but she said Congress will need to step in to prevent a further collapse. "It's clear Congress must act with some banking reform to guarantee long-term economic stability in the banking sector or risk similar future events," Gillibrand said. Gillibrand asked if the banking disruptions pose a risk to rural lenders and rural creditors. Jase Wagner, president and CEO of Compeer Financial, a member of the Farm Credit System in Wisconsin, said the impact on credit is real "when you have contagion like you have." The increased spreads in interest rates require more collateral for the risks being taken. That is costing farmers and others in rural money. "The impact is not real acute right now," Wagner said. "It is around the edges, new producers coming in, new loans that are being funded, but it is something we are actively watching." The backstop stemming from bank failures is that everyone else also becomes more conservative with their lending practices, Wagner added. "What you are seeing more broadly is everyone talking about risk, and when everyone is talking about risk, you tend to get more conservative," Wagner said. "So, it's immediately impactful to your young, beginning farmers." Gus Barker, president and CEO of First Community Bank in Newell, Iowa, stressed to senators that the problems affecting the stability of "megabanks" are not systemic to community banks. "We have not seen an impact," he said. "Those megabanks were not typical bank management. We just feel there needs to be a distinguished line drawn in the sand between the risk of those megabanks who are investing in far-out ways of doing business compared to what the community bank model has always been," Barker said. "It's been stable. It's survived everything from world wars to the ag crisis and survived that bank model. We just feel we are stable. We have not seen withdrawals of major deposits or anything like that." Barker added that small lenders and customers also shouldn't have to pay higher risk-based fees because of the financial problems facing those larger banks. "We shouldn't be tagged on to paying for those failures of those people." Gillibrand said she was concerned about regional and smaller banks. She asked if other institutions are seeing "capital flight" to larger banks and "misalignment of interest rates." "We have data and information that they have not reached stability," Gillibrand said, pointing to regional banks seeing declines in their stock prices. Phillip Morgan, CEO of Southern AgCredit, a Mississippi-based Farm Credit lender, said all lenders are concerned any time there is discussion of a credit crunch, "whether it is ag or non-ag, that bothers all of us." Morgan added, "I can tell you Farm Credit is well positioned, well capitalized, and does not have the same concerns, and we're well positioned to continue to support local agriculture." Morgan also said the rapid rise of interest rates over the past 12 months affects every farm operator. A number of long-term real-estate loans will "reprice" this year as the original price expires, he said. "They will be facing much higher interest rate costs," Morgan said, adding some producers will be facing both higher operating costs and real-estate loans. William Cole, a Mississippi crop insurance agent and a farmer representing the Crop Insurance Professionals Association (CIPA) at the hearing, said his customers, "for the most part" were able to secure operating loans this year, but that will become more difficult going forward. "It's just apparent the high rates are going to have a severe impact, especially with the cost of production just dramatically rising," Cole said. James Korin, president of NAU Country Insurance in Minnesota and testifying for the American Association of Crop Insurers, said reinsurance costs for the industry overall are up 40% this year, though that is a bigger issue for property and casualty lines of insurance instead of crop insurance. "There's no doubt the change in the banking industry has impacted capital," Korin said. He added, "We're seeing our cost of capital really go up." Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., chairwoman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, also weighed in about the possible impacts on interest rates and credit if the U.S. were to default on its debt obligations. "My bigger worry right now is the economic environment we are in with all of the discussion about default and so on," Stabenow said. Sen. John Boozman, R-Ark., ranking member of the overall Senate Agriculture Committee, asked if any of the bankers or Farm Credit members were now facing more scrutiny. Barker said community banks "have always been scrutinized pretty heavily," but said "our files are up to date," and "our customers are well-positioned. They've had some very good years, and we hope to keep that sustained." Barker added that the farm safety net, such as crop insurance, is critical because bank regulators often ask about it. "That is a question we get asked about every customer from the examiners. Do they have federal crop insurance? As long as we tell them yes, they have much more comfort." FSA LOAN GUARANTEES As part of the farm bill, multiple senators also asked if the borrowing limit on FSA-guaranteed loans should be raised. Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., said a new producer trying to start a four-building poultry operation can cost roughly $2.5 million. Both Farm Credit and the Independent Community Bankers of America would like to see FSA-guaranteed loan limits raised from the current $2.03 million to $3.5 million for construction loans and $3 million in operating loans. Barker also suggested those FSA-guaranteed loan limits should be indexed to inflation. "They need to be adjusted upward. The price of land and inputs has just skyrocketed upward for us," Barker said. TAX-EXEMPT BANK LOANS Barker also said Farm Credit has a better funding system because of the bond market, but community bankers are looking for a way to be more competitive with Farm Credit on interest rates. The Independent Community Bankers of America is pitching a bill, the "Access to Credit for our Rural Economy" or ACRE Act, which would provide banks with tax exemptions on interest earned in rural lending -- agricultural real-estate or rural home sales in towns under 2,500 in population. "We've calculated that could be the difference of 1.5% to 2.5% lower rates for our folks, and that is another tool we would love to use for our beginning farmers and our low-income families in our towns," Barker said.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 5, 2023 |

Michigan Reps Jump Into AM Radio Discussion Eight Michigan Representatives entered into a campaign to reverse Ford’s decision to remove AM radio from most new models in 2024. The eight reps sent a letter to Ford’s board of directors making a case to keep the legacy band in cars. “Not only is AM still widely listened to for entertainment purposes, especially in rural areas, but it is vitally important for emergency services in times of trouble or natural disaster,” the letter says. “Removing AM capability from future vehicles could jeopardize the safety and livelihood of millions of your customers.” Michigan Rep David Prestin says that Ford’s decision represents “a lack of vision or thought towards national security, our ability to communicate on the most basic level in the future for the unknown things we may have to face. I just find it reckless.” He also points out that AM radio is the backbone of the Emergency Alert System. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Welcomes Senate Action on Lesser Prairie Chicken The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association welcomed the Senate passage of a resolution of disapproval that would stop the listing of the lesser prairie chicken on the Endangered Species Act. The Congressional Review Act Resolution of Disapproval was led by Kansas’ Roger Marshall. “The lesser prairie chicken listing will do little to benefit the bird, but it will succeed in shutting down the voluntary conservation work that is responsible for the species surviving today,” says NCBA Policy Division Director Gene Copenhaver. “This resolution puts flexible, locally-led conservation efforts back at the forefront.” Representative Tracy Mann of Kansas is leading a companion resolution in the House to disapprove the lesser prairie chicken listing. The resolution recently passed the House Natural Resources Committee. NCBA is currently suing the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over the listing of the lesser prairie chicken. The lawsuit was filed in Texas in March. *********************************************************************************** NFU Appreciates USDA Funding to Strengthen Food Supply Chain Infrastructure The USDA recently announced the creation of 12 new USDA Regional Food Business Centers, and the National Farmers Union is pleased with the move. “This is the kind of capacity and investment that we need to make meaningful improvements in our food system,” says NFU President Rob Larew. “Providing local and regional access to processing and distribution is one avenue to fight back against the rampant consolidation in the agriculture and food sector.” The new USDA Regional Food Centers will provide national coverage coordination, technical assistance, and capacity building to help farmers, ranchers, and other food businesses access new markets and navigate federal, state, and local resources. “This move provides support for farmers and ranchers to market their products in their own communities, and keeping those resources local is a win for everyone,” Larew says. “This will build resiliency in the food supply and vitality in our rural and agricultural economy.” *********************************************************************************** AEM Looking for Hall of Fame Nominations Nominations are now open for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers’ Hall of Fame. The Hall celebrates the men and women who create the equipment and technologies that help build, feed, and power the world. Since its inception in 1993, the Hall of Fame has inducted 67 individuals who have broken ground, literally and figuratively, on the job sites and farm fields of the world. AEM is looking for nominations for the 2023 induction ceremony, especially individuals that reflect the diverse and inclusive nature of the modern construction and agriculture equipment manufacturing industry. “The oldest member of the AEM Hall of Fame is John Deere, who was born in 1804,” says AEM President Megan Tanel. “A lot has changed since then, and today’s technology would be unrecognizable to Mr. Deere.” The AEM Hall of Fame is accepting 2023 Hall of Fame nominations until Friday, June 16. For more information, go to aem.org. *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Reportedly Closing 37 Sow Farms in Missouri A local Missouri news outlet says that Smithfield Foods plans to close 37 sow farms. An employee who requested anonymity said the closures were to begin on May 1. Smithfield Foods didn’t confirm the story or offer any more details regarding the closures when National Hog Farmer asked for clarification. “We’re always taking steps to enhance our business for consistently strong performance during favorable and unfavorable market conditions,” says Jim Monroe, vice president for corporate affairs with Smithfield. In April, China’s WH Group informed shareholders and potential investors that it was expecting a 56 percent drop in its first quarter 2023 profit outlook, down from $395 million during the same time last year. “Hog raising costs remain elevated while pork prices have been adversely impacted by softer consumer demand,” Smithfield says. The company also says the drop was mainly attributable to the challenging market conditions in the U.S. pork segment. *********************************************************************************** Ethanol Output Rises While Stock Hit Five-Month Low Point The Energy Information Administration says ethanol production rose week-to-week while inventories dropped to the lowest level in five months during the week ending on April 28. Output increased to an average of 976,000 barrels a day. That’s up from 967,000 barrels during the prior week. The Midwest region, which produces the most ethanol in the country, rose to an average of 922,000 barrels a day from 916,000 barrels the previous week. Rocky Mountain output increased to 14,000 barrels a day, 1,000 barrels higher than the week prior. West Coast production also rose by 1,000 barrels a day to an average of 4,000 barrels. Production on the East Coast and Gulf Coast held steady at 12,000 and 24,000 barrels a day respectively. Ethanol inventories during the week plunged to 23.36 million barrels, down from 24.31 million barrels a week earlier, and the lowest levels since the week ending on December 2.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday May 5, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department reports on nonfarm payrolls and the unemployment rate for April at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday. Traders will keep tabs on the latest weather forecasts from around the world as a new growing season begins in the Northern Hemisphere. They will also watch for any sign of movement on the extension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative and any news regarding the health of U.S. banks. Weather A cluster of storms continues across the Delta Friday morning which could see more development later Friday. The focus for rainfall will be across the Plains and Upper Midwest, though. Some thunderstorms may develop across central and eastern Texas this afternoon and evening, and could be severe, but the more widespread precipitation is expected farther north as a system moving through the West starts to move into the Central Rockies tonight. Showers should increase from Nebraska up into Wisconsin with time, and some severe weather may be possible across Nebraska as well. Showers are not likely to be widespread but will be of some benefit to drier areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 4, 2023 |

Farm Sector Chapter 12 Bankruptcies in 2022 Lowest Since 2004 New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service confirms a decline in the farm Chapter 12 bankruptcy rate. In 2022, the Chapter 12 bankruptcy rate reached the lowest level in nearly two decades, with 0.78 bankruptcies per 10,000 farms. Under Chapter 12 bankruptcy, a financially distressed family farmer can propose and carry out a plan to repay their debts fully or partially. The total number of these bankruptcies is an indicator of financial stress in the farm sector. In 2003, the annual bankruptcy rate reached a high of 3.3 per 10,000 farms and then declined to a low of 0.5 per 10,000 farms in 2004. After 2010, the bankruptcy rate declined until 2014 but increased again in 2015, with another peak in 2019 at 2.9 bankruptcies per 10,000 farms. Since then, bankruptcies have declined to the lowest level in two decades after 2004. Wisconsin had the highest rate at 5.66 per 10,000 farms, followed by Nebraska and Kansas. *********************************************************************************** Legislation Seeks to Increase USDA Technical Service Providers Legislation introduced in the House and Senate Wednesday seeks to help address America's shortage of Technical Service Providers at the Department of Agriculture. Technical Service Providers help producers deploy and manage conservation programs through one-on-one assistance. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief Terry Cosby recently projected his agency would need to hire between 3,000 and 4,000 employees to meet demand for technical assistance. Specifically, the bill would help build the workforce by cutting red tape, streamlining Technical Service Provider certification requirements, and ensuring they are paid the market rate. Representative Abigail Spanberger, a Democrat from Virginia, and Senator Mike Braun, a Republican from Indiana, lead the effort. Spanberger says, “This massive workforce issue is having real effects on the ground — and it’s slowing down the ability of producers to make smart management plans for their land.” Braun adds, “Our nation’s farmers and ranchers play a critical role in conservation, so it is important that they have access to Technical Service Providers.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Finalists for 12 New USDA Regional Food Business Centers The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced the creation of 12 new USDA Regional Food Business Centers. The centers will provide national coverage coordination, technical assistance, and capacity building to help farmers and ranchers access new markets and navigate federal, state, and local resources. USDA also announced a $420 million Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program to fund innovative projects designed to invest in processing and distribution capacity to build resilience across the middle of the supply chain and strengthen local and regional food systems. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the efforts will “create new and expanded local market opportunities which will improve farm income.” In September 2022, USDA announced $400 million to fund this initiative and 12 organizations were selected to lead efforts in their region and together serve all areas of the country. Regional Food Centers will target their work to historically underinvested communities. Find the 12 centers and more information on the USDA Regional Food Business Centers Program webpage. *********************************************************************************** Farm Bureau Foundation Fellows Launch Free Digital Skills and Ag Literacy Lessons The 2023 Farm Bureau Foundation Fellows have launched four free Applied Digital Skills lessons dedicated to helping students learn about food, fuel and fiber. The lessons were developed with support from Grow with Google to make digital skills and agricultural literacy more accessible to students across the country, with a focus on rural classrooms. The lessons are part of the Agriculture and Rural Communities Collection, available for free to educators across the United States. Foundation for Agriculture executive director Daniel Meloy says, “Whether you’re a teacher in a rural, urban or suburban classroom, these lessons can be used to teach a broad variety of technical skills while fostering understanding of agriculture.” The lessons were developed over the course of an eight-month fellowship. As part of the program, each Fellow will receive a stipend and Chromebooks for their classroom. For more information, visit the Farm Bureau Foundation website, agfoundation.org. *********************************************************************************** Hershey Company Announces Income Accelerator for Cocoa Farmers The Hershey Company recently announced the launch of its Income Accelerator in the Ivory Coast. The program will support increased incomes for cocoa farming households by providing cash transfers and investments in village savings and loan associations. The Income Accelerator offers a proven, multi-faceted approach to help address cocoa farmer poverty while also supporting sustainable farming practices and mitigating the risk of child labor. As part of the Income Accelerator, Hershey, in partnership with the Rainforest Alliance, will distribute mobile cash transfers of up to $600 per household per year to approximately 5,000 cocoa farming households within its supply chain. These transfers, which will offer an additional source of income for households, will be based on the adoption of sustainable and regenerative farm management practices that increase farm profitability and resiliency to unexpected environmental circumstances. The Income Accelerator is expected to positively impact no fewer than 20,000 households within Hershey's supply chain and related communities. *********************************************************************************** Cargill, Taco Bell, Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Announce Partnership With bold ambitions to operate 10,000 restaurants in the coming years, Taco Bell acknowledges its responsibility to balance global expansion with intentional impact. Taco Bell is now partnering with its long-time supplier Cargill and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to implement conservation and regenerative agriculture practices across cattle grazing lands. The partnership is part of Taco Bell's parent company Yum! Brands' efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 50 percent by 2030. The partnership will support beef producers with technical and financial tools to expand their regenerative ranching practices, from conserving grassland ecosystems to improving river water quality and biodiversity. The commitment from Cargill and Taco Bell will allocate $2 million and will leverage up to $2 million in federal funds for a combined total of $4 million in new grants over the next four years. Taco Bell estimates the partnership will conserve and restore tens of thousands of acres and sequester up to 44,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year in 2030.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday May 4, 2023 |

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 U.S. trade deficit for March, first-quarter U.S. productivity and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Energy Department's weekly report on natural gas storage is at 9:30 a.m. Traders will keep watch over the latest news from Russia, weather happenings and any further news about U.S. bank problems. Weather A cold trough in the East is on its way out and is being replaced by a ridge and warmer temperatures east of the Rockies, though it is a slower process for those farther east. A trough in the Southwest continues to develop showers there and through the Plains on Thursday, with some risk of severe weather from Oklahoma through Texas this afternoon and evening. Those showers should grow into a cluster of heavier rain tonight that will expand north into eastern Kansas and then through the Ozarks overnight.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 3, 2023 |

Farm Bill Hearing: Farmers Need a Stronger Safety Net During a Senate Agriculture Subcommittee hearing Tuesday, a sorghum farmer told lawmakers farmers need a stronger farm safety net. National Sorghum Producers' Past Chairman, Kody Carson of Texas told lawmakers, "Right now, the farm safety net is not adequate." Carson also reaffirmed support for crop insurance, adding, "the tool has been absolutely critical in helping us manage the ongoing drought conditions decimating the Sorghum Belt." Meanwhile, American Soybean Association Secretary Caleb Ragland of Kentucky called crop insurance the most effective and important component of farm policy for soybean farmers. Ragland says that without crop insurance, “the risk would be more than many farmers and lenders could stand—it certainly would be for me,” while calling for improvements to the Title I farm safety net for soybeans. And National Corn Growers Association First Vice President Harold Wolle told the committee NCGA supports increasing the affordability of crop insurance coverage. Wolle adds, “The individual costs of purchasing coverage can discourage higher levels of coverage.” *********************************************************************************** Ag Economy Barometer: Farmer Sentiment Improves Farmer sentiment improved modestly in April as the Purdue University-CME Group Ag Economy Barometer reversed a two-month decline, up six points to 123. The Current Conditions Index rose three points to 129, while the Index of Future Expectations rose seven points to 120. More producers expect prime interest rates to either hold steady or possibly decline during the next 12 months than felt that way earlier in the year. Perspectives on farmland values shifted somewhat in April, with fewer producers expecting values to decline in the upcoming year and more producers looking for values to rise. When asked about the possibility of a new Farm Bill being passed by Congress in 2023, responses were mixed, with 40 percent of producers saying that passage was at least somewhat likely, while nearly 30 percent of respondents think that passage is at least somewhat unlikely. Meanwhile, 40 percent of respondents considered crop insurance the most important Farm Bill title, followed by commodity programs and conservation. *********************************************************************************** Renderers Support Protein PACT Legislation The North American Renderers Association Tuesday endorsed The Protein PACT: For the People, Animals and Climate of Tomorrow. The legislation is the largest effort to strengthen animal protein's contributions to healthy people, animals, communities, and a healthy environment. NARA endorsed the Protein PACT because the association "recognizes the importance of continuous improvement in the animal agriculture industry and see the benefit that the Protein PACT’s accomplishments will have on our organization, our members, and global consumers.” The organization says The Protein PACT uses transparent, data-based reporting to verify progress and keep the industry accountable for achieving its global goals. The Protein PACT Sustainability Framework encompasses more than 100 metrics developed through extensive collaboration with sustainability experts and supply chain partners. The association joins dozens of other food and Agriculture organizations in endorsing the Protein PACT’s vision to place Animal Agriculture at the center of global solutions. *********************************************************************************** NMPF Submits Milk-Pricing Plan to USDA The National Milk Producers Federation this week submitted to USDA its comprehensive proposal for modernizing the Federal Milk Marketing Order system. The proposal follows two years of examination and more than 150 meetings to build consensus behind updates to a program that last saw significant changes in 2000. The NMPF proposal calls for updating the so-called "make allowance," returning to the “higher of” Class I mover, and updating the Class I differential price system, among other updates. Upon acceptance, USDA will have 30 days to review the plan and decide whether and how to move forward with a federal order hearing to review the plan. NMPF will pursue two other components of its Federal Order proposal outside the federal order hearing process. Those include extending the current 30-day reporting limit to 45 days on forward-priced sales on nonfat dry milk and dry whey, and developing legislative language for the farm bill to ensure the make allowance is regularly reviewed. *********************************************************************************** USDA Providing $130 Million to Farmers Facing Financial Risk The Department of Agriculture this week announced nearly $130 million in additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying farm loan program borrowers facing financial risk. The announcement is part of the $3.1 billion to help distressed farm loan borrowers provided through the Inflation Reduction Act. Borrowers who received the automatic payments include Farm Service Agency direct loan borrowers whose interest exceeded principle owed on outstanding debts, borrowers who had a balance up to 60 days past due as of September 30, 2022, and borrowers with a recent restructure between February 28, 2020, through March 27, 2023, or who had accepted an offer to restructure on or before March 27, 2023, but had not yet closed that restructure. FSA is accepting distressed borrower assistance requests from direct loan borrowers who missed a recent installment or cannot make their next scheduled installment. USDA will continue to update borrowers and the public about new eligibility criteria. *********************************************************************************** Nutrient Intakes by Consumers Differ from Federal Recommendations U.S. consumers' intakes of several key nutrients differ from Federal recommendations, and those differences are associated with where they obtain food. Researchers from USDA's Economic Research Service examined diet patterns based on density—amounts of nutrients consumed per 1,000 calories—using the latest available national food consumption survey data collected in 2017–18. They compared average consumption densities of six nutrients with what would be needed to match Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommendations. On average, dietary fiber and iron intake densities were more than 20 percent below the recommended level. Meanwhile, calcium densities were closer to the recommended level but still fell short of recommendations. Total fat intake was within 20 percent of the highest recommended percent of calories from total fats, which is 35 percent. The density of saturated fats for food away from home and densities of sodium from all sources were more than 20 percent above the recommended limit.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday May 3, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories, including ethanol production is set for 9:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday. The Federal Reserve concludes a two-day meeting with a widely anticipated interest rate announcement at 1 p.m. Many are expecting a quarter-percent increase in the federal funds target to an upper limit of 5.25%. Weather A storm system continues its slow movement through the northeast where showers will be possible, but most areas of the country are becoming dry. The exit of the system will mean rising temperatures for the next couple of days. In the warmth, isolated showers will be possible for the Central and Southern Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 2, 2023 |

Farm Sector Real Estate Debt Hits Record High New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows farm sector debt tied to real estate is expected to be at a record high of $375.9 billion in 2023. Farm sector real estate debt has been increasing continuously since 2009 and is expected to reach an amount that is 87.5 percent higher in 2023 compared with 2009 in inflation-adjusted dollars. Real estate debt now far outpaces debt that is not secured by a mortgage. Historically, real estate debt and non-real estate debt have trended similarly, but they have diverged in recent years. Non-real estate debt showed an 11.9-percent year-to-year increase in 2014 in inflation-adjusted dollars but declined after 2017. Meanwhile, there has been a continuous increase in real estate debt since 2009. In 2023, real estate debt is expected to be 33.0 percent higher than the ten-year average, while non-real estate debt is expected to be 10.2 percent lower than the ten-year average. *********************************************************************************** USGC Releases 2022/2023 Corn Export Cargo Quality Report The average aggregate quality of U.S. corn samples tested for the U.S. Grains Council’s 2022/2023 Corn Export Cargo Quality Report released this week was better than or equal to U.S. No. 2 on all grade factors. The report is based on 430 export cargo samples collected from corn shipments undergoing federal inspection and grading processes at export terminals. It also provides information on grading, handling and how U.S. corn is moved and controlled through export channels. USGC Chairman Josh Miller says, “International importers and consumers can know that they are making a smart, informed purchase by seeing the exact benefits and characteristics of this year’s crop.” Average test weight found by the analysis was higher than in 2021/2022 and the five-year average, with 93.3 percent of samples at or above the minimum requirements for U.S. No. 1 grade corn, indicating overall good quality. The export cargo quality report is a companion to the USGC 2022/2023 Corn Harvest Quality Report. *********************************************************************************** TFI Releases 2023-2024 Public Policy Priorities The Fertilizer Institute Monday released its list of 2023-2024 public policy priorities for working with the Biden Administration, regulatory agencies, and a closely divided 118th Congress. TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch says, “we are strongly advocating for policies that ensure the fertilizer industry is able to continue feeding the world sustainably though innovation, efficiency, and legislative and regulatory updates that are long overdue.” TFI’s priorities are broken down into seven key areas: Economic Growth & Competitiveness; Transportation & Infrastructure; Environment; Safety & Security; Farm Bill Reauthorization; Permitting & Registration; and Innovation. Those changes include reforming the National Environmental Policy Act. TFI describes the legislation as convoluted, time-consuming, and expensive, regarding its permitting process. As for the Farm Bill, Rosenbusch says it’s “all about conservation and continuing to push for science-backed 4R Nutrient Stewardship adoption by growers and removing the existing barriers to grower adoption.” TFI also wants hurdles removed for biostimulants, a new innovation in agricultural fertilizers. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Marine Fish Stocks Show Improvements in 2022 The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released the 2022 Status of Stocks report last week, outlining U.S. marine fish stocks managed by NOAA Fisheries. In 2022, U.S. fisheries data revealed that 93 percent of stocks are not subject to overfishing and 81 percent are not overfished. These numbers show slight improvements compared to the 2021 figures of 92 percent and 80 percent, respectively. Positive trends were seen this year with the number of stocks on the overfishing list decreasing by two stocks to 24, and the number of overfished stocks decreasing by three stocks to 48. NOAA administrator Rick Spinrad says, “This annual report reveals the U.S. remains a global leader in maintaining the sustainable fisheries that drive the blue economy, support coastal communities and play a key role in marine ecosystems.” The latest data show that U.S. commercial and recreational fishing supports 1.7 million full- and part-time jobs, generated over $253 billion in sales impacts and contributed $79.4 billion to the gross domestic product. *********************************************************************************** FAA Approves Guardian Agriculture Done System Guardian Agriculture recently announced it has received approval from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to operate its aircraft nationwide. FAA approval makes Guardian Agriculture the first commercially authorized Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing in the U.S., allowing Guardian Agriculture to safely operate its systems across the country. Guardian Agriculture Founder and CEO Adam Bercu says, “FAA approval represents an important turning point for American leadership in this fast-growing market." Commercial farmers are rapidly moving away from ground spraying equipment in favor of unmanned autonomous systems. However, the majority of systems available today are too small to provide growers with full-field coverage at a competitive price point. The Guardian SC1 platform - which already has more than $100 million in customer orders - is the only autonomous, electric, aerial crop protection system designed specifically for large-scale agriculture. Guardian Agriculture will begin commercial operations in support of its Wilbur-Ellis customer in California in the coming months as it continues to ramp up its production capacity. *********************************************************************************** Fuel Prices Slide Again: Diesel Reaches 13-Month Low For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline declined, falling 6.3 cents from a week ago to $3.58 per gallon. The national average is up 8.2 cents from a month ago but 59.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 5.3 cents in the last week and stands at $4.07 per gallon, $1.18 lower than one year ago. Oil prices have come under additional selling pressure alongside wholesale gasoline prices, and diesel prices have followed. The latest data shows diesel prices fell to their lowest level in over 13 months as demand remains weak due to concerns over the economy. GasBuddy’s Patrick De Haan says, “With refinery maintenance wrapping up, we should see supplies start to build in the weeks ahead, just in time for the summer driving season, potentially putting more downward pressure on prices.”

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday May 2, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets A report on March U.S. factory orders is set for 9 a.m. CDT on Tuesday, the same time as a report on U.S. job openings. The Federal Reserve begins a two-day meeting Tuesday and is expected to conclude with a quarter-percent rate hike on Wednesday. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and digest Monday's Crop Progress numbers from USDA. Weather A storm system continues to spin around the eastern Great Lakes with scattered showers for Tuesday. Temperatures will be on a slow rise Tuesday with temperatures conducive for planting across the Plains up into the Canadian Prairies. Some isolated showers may develop in the southwestern Plains this afternoon but would be very spotty.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 1, 2023 |

Biden Administration Allowing Summertime Sales of E15 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Friday that it will use existing authority to prevent drivers from losing access to lower-cost and lower-emission E15, a higher ethanol blend often marketed as Unleaded 88. “We appreciate Administrator Regan’s timely action to prevent a disruption in E15 availability,” says National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag (Hayg). “EPA’s action will help address the fuel supply constraints and ensure drivers continue to have access to a lower-cost fuel choice that cuts emissions.” The fuel conditions that warranted EPA taking the same successful step last year are continuing today. Haag says the nation’s corn growers are proud to contribute to an energy and environmental solution that saves consumers money at the pump. Continued access to E15 during the summer months will help relieve ongoing energy supply pressures. When EPA took a similar action last year, drivers saved nearly a dollar per gallon in some locations. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Agriculture Reacts to EPA E15 Emergency Waiver The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued an emergency fuel waiver to allow E15 fuel to be sold during the summer driving season. Reaction from some of America’s leading ag and renewable fuel organizations has been positive. “U.S. gas inventories are even tighter than they were last year, and the war in Ukraine continues wreaking havoc on global fuel supplies,” says Geoff Cooper, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association. “We thank the EPA for taking this step.” Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy, says, “This is a win for drivers across the nation, who can rest easier knowing they’ll have access to savings on lower-carbon E15 this summer.” Rob Larew, president of the National Farmers Union, says, “Today’s announcement from EPA is good news for farmers and consumers heading into the summer travel season. Drivers will see increased choice and competition while farmers will see more opportunities for their bottom line.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Trade Consultation Request “Violates Mexican Law” The United States requested trade consultations in March on Mexico’s plan to limit the use of genetically modified corn. Reuters says a top Mexican official called the request an “unacceptable violation” of Mexican law that feeds the interest of giant seed companies. The U.S. is Mexico’s main trading partner and requested the consultations under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which calls for science-based regulations. Mexico’s Deputy Agriculture Minister Victor Suarez says, “The United States’ request to Mexico follows the interests of seed, agrochemical, and other foodproducing oligopolies.” He also points out that seed makers like Bayer, Corteva, ChemChina’s Syngenta, and BASF are winning under U.S. agriculture and trade policies. However, Suarez feels those companies don’t represent all U.S. farmers. The consultations are a first step toward a trade panel that could ultimately mean a ruling calling for placing punitive tariffs on Mexico. Suarez says Mexico’s policy won’t affect U.S. corn farmers at all. *********************************************************************************** Applications Open for NCGA Women and Mentors Program Applications are now open for the third class of the National Corn Growers Association’s Women and Mentors Program on June 22-23 in St. Louis. The program helps women looking to find the next steps of their leadership journey to partner with a mentor who has traveled that path. Mentors help foster leaders of tomorrow and learn how to share the wealth of knowledge and understanding accumulated through years of service. Class members learn how to quiet their inner critic, explore what they can learn from another woman’s leadership journey, and develop an action plan for their own mentorship journey. Each participant also gains a supportive group of peers committed to their success. NCGA officials say everyone leaves the retreat with a concrete action plan and a mentorship pairing to help each other reach their goals. The last day to apply for the program is May 19. For more information, go to ncga.com. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Pork Growing in the Japanese Market National Pork Board representatives recently met with two of Japan’s largest importers of U.S. pork and one of the country’s top retailers. NPB says the meetings were a sign of stronger partnerships and trust established in the market. One of Japan’s largest retailers committed to increasing their purchases of U.S. pork, replacing Canadian pork in the meat case. Also, Japanese authorities are lifting COVID-19 restrictions next month, which is expected to boost the country’s economy. The Japanese market has consistently been proven valuable for U.S. pork exports. In 2022, Japan imported over 534,000 metric tons of American pork, amounting to $1.5 billion, and ended the year as the second-largest value market. The growth of the market can be attributed to its demand for chilled pork and loin products. Japan’s pork demand consists of 62 percent imported products, with the U.S. holding a 24 percent market share in chilled and frozen pork. *********************************************************************************** Fetterman Opposes IRA Funds for Farm Bill Conservation Efforts Late last week, Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman sent a letter to Senate Ag Committee leadership detailing his opposition to Inflation Reduction Act funding for farm bill conservation efforts. “I strongly oppose any measures that would essentially cannibalize IRA conservation funding in order to pay for the farm bill’s conservation efforts,” Fetterman said in the letter. “The bottom line is that to both support our nation’s agricultural producers and mitigate climate change, we must maintain the Inflation Reduction Act programs and include separate robust agriculture conservation funding in the upcoming farm bill.” Fetterman also says the country can and must do both. The letter was supported by multiple Pennsylvania-based environmental and farming-focused groups. Senator Fetterman says he’ll continue to oppose any effort to move Inflation Reduction Act funding away from its original purpose to get used for farm bill conservation efforts. Farmers in Pennsylvania continue to support funding for voluntary conservation programs.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday May 1, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will catch up on the news, the latest weather forecasts and international manufacturing indices that start rolling in early Monday. USDA's weekly report of export inspections is due out at 10 a.m. CDT. At 2 p.m., NASS's Fats and Oils report will be out, followed by Crop Progress at 3 p.m. Weather A storm system has built up in the Great Lakes over the weekend and continues to spin on Monday, producing showers across the eastern Midwest into the Northeast, and some breezy winds. Some of the showers may mix with snow in the colder air swirling around the low. The rest of the country should be rather quiet and mild.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 28, 2023 |

World Bank: Commodity Prices to Drop Through 2024 Global commodity prices are expected to drop this year at the fastest clip since the beginning of COVID-19. A World Bank report says that clouds the prospective growth of approximately two-thirds of the developing economies that depends on exports. The Commodity Markets Outlook says the drop in prices is expected to bring little relief to the almost 350 million people around the world who are facing food insecurity. While food prices are expected to drop by eight percent this year, they will be at their second-highest level since 1975. Food price inflation is at 20 percent globally, the highest level in 20 years. “The surge in food and energy prices after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has largely passed due to slowing economic growth, a moderate winter, and reallocations in commodity trade,” the report says. Overall, commodity prices are expected to fall by 21 percent in 2023, relative to last year. *********************************************************************************** House Amendment Preserves Renewable Fuel Tax Credits Clean Fuels Alliance welcomed an amendment to House legislation that would raise the nation’s debt limit and make substantial changes to clean energy tax credits. The amendment would preserve the biodiesel and renewable diesel blenders’ credits as they are written in current law. “The clean fuels industry thanks all the House members who sought to preserve predictability and stability in tax policy,” says Kurt Kovarik, Vice President of Federal Affairs with Clean Fuels. Midwestern House Republicans were also concerned about the bill’s elimination of ethanol tax credits. A manager’s amendment eliminated those provisions that would have eliminated tax credits for biofuels that were part of the Inflation Reduction Act. The amendment added a grandfather clause in a section that eliminates sustainable aviation fuel and alternative fuel tax credits for those engaged in activities who would have received a credit after the Inflation Reduction Act passed and before it was introduced. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Testify on Farm Bill Priorities American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates testified before the House Agriculture Committee’s Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit. Cates offered ASA’s perspectives on the 2023 Farm Bill and asked for help with two priorities under the subcommittee’s jurisdiction. The first was protecting crop insurance, and the second was improving the Title 1 farm safety net for soybeans. Cates called crop insurance, “The most effective and important component of the farm safety net for soybean farmers.” National Sorghum Producers Chair Craig Meeker also testified during the hearing. “It’s clear that more resources will be necessary to enact a strong farm bill this year as there’s a major shortfall of funding compared to previous bills,” Meeker says. He also reaffirmed his group’s support for crop insurance, noting that he would not be the sixth generation on his family farm without it. Crop insurance has been critical in managing an ongoing drought. *********************************************************************************** From Drought to Flooding in Six Months Last fall, the main topic of discussion with historically-low water levels on the Mississippi River and other navigable rivers. Now, high water levels are presenting a challenge to barge transportation, especially along the Upper Mississippi River levels. Significant snowfall and rain over the past several weeks have resulted in a sizable increase in water levels. Many of the Mississippi River locks between St. Paul, Minnesota, and Quincy, Illinois, have been closed by the high water conditions. Many will likely stay closed until the first and second week of May. Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition, says, “Closures of these locks will obviously impede the delivery of any remaining soybeans or grain for the export markets. However, lock closures at this time of year will particularly impact northern fertilizer shipments.” The USDA estimates that 2.4 million tons of fertilizer have been delivered during the first 12 weeks of 2023. *********************************************************************************** USDA Kicks Off Implementation Phase of Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities The USDA kicked off the implementation phase for projects funded through the $3.1 billion Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities effort. As projects get started, the agency is also launching the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Learning Network, which will generate key lessons learned as projects get implemented. “Farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners are on the frontlines of climate change,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “At the same time, they are uniquely positioned to deliver climate solutions through climate-smart production that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and sequesters carbon.” Vilsack also says through these projects, the agency’s partners are working to create new markets for climate-smart commodities while developing the tools needed to quantify impacts and help producers implement those climate-smart practices on their land. Producers interested in participating in projects can go to the Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities Active Project Dashboard to find projects in their areas. For more information on projects, go to usda.gov. *********************************************************************************** Canadian Farmers Planting More Wheat This Year As Canadian farmers gear up for spring planting, they expect to plant more wheat this year and increase crops of canola and soybeans. The University of Illinois’ Farm Policy News says, “Canada’s farmers forecast planting 26.97 million acres of wheat in 2023, six percent higher than 2022 but still well below the 8.2 percent annual increase recorded last year.” The spring wheat area will increase 7.5 percent to 19.39 million acres, durum wheat is predicted to edge up 0.9 percent to just over six million acres, and the winter wheat area is anticipated to jump more than 12 percent to 1.52 million acres. Geopolitical concerns may be behind Canada’s increasing wheat crop. Canada’s farmers are planting the most wheat in 22 years as the war in Ukraine and a significant drought in the U.S. tighten global supplies. Global wheat stocks and vegetable oil supplies are limited by obstacles facing Ukraine’s exports

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 28, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The Federal Reserve's preferred inflation gauge, the PCE index, will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, the same time as the employment cost index for the first quarter and reports on U.S. personal incomes and spending in March. The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index for April will be out at 9 a.m. Traders will keep up on the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m., not knowing if USDA has an export sale, a cancellation or neither. Weather A couple of systems are pushing through the country on Friday, producing areas of scattered showers from the Southern Plains to the Northeast and places in between. Some stronger thunderstorms will be possible across Texas later today as well as some breezy winds behind a front across the western Plains.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 27, 2023 |

NCGA Outlines Farm Bill Priorities Corn growers are optimistic that Congress can make key farm bill programs more effective and responsive to the needs of farmers, according to the National Corn Growers Association. NCGA President Tom Haag, a Minnesota farmer, testified to the House Agriculture General Farm Commodities, Risk Management, and Credit Subcommittee. The committee hearing focused on stakeholder priorities for the crop insurance and commodity titles. Haag says, "Corn growers consistently rank crop insurance as the most important program and title of the farm bill. NCGA broadly supports increasing the affordability of crop insurance." Haag also offered recommendations for the commodity title, saying NCGA supports increasing the maximum rate in the Agriculture Risk Coverage County program to provide increased assistance to growers who experience significant revenue losses. Haag says NCGA recommends increasing the coverage level for ARC County to make the program more responsive to revenue losses. NCGA supports the improvement of the Price Loss Coverage program, investment to expand international markets and trade promotion. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Reiterates Importance of Food Safety, Opposes PRIME Act The National Cattlemen's Beef Association Wednesday once again announced opposition to the Processing Revival and Intrastate Meat Exemption, or PRIME Act. Representatives Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, and Chellie Pingree, a Maine Democrat, introduced the bill. The legislation would allow beef processed in a non-U.S. Department of Agriculture inspected facility to be distributed interstate, posing a threat to food safety and consumer trust in beef. NCBA President Todd Wilkinson says, "While the PRIME Act is well-intentioned, allowing uninspected beef to enter the retail market is dangerous to consumers." NCBA supports federal and state meat inspection efforts and has previously supported legislation like the DIRECT Act. That legislation would allow state-inspected beef to be sold interstate in limited quantities, direct-to-consumer, and through e-commerce. Unlike the PRIME Act, these measures would create the necessary paper trail to trace and contain any potential food safety concerns. *********************************************************************************** AEM Calls on Congress to Bolster American Competitiveness The Association of Equipment Manufacturers is mobilizing thousands of industry supporters through its I Make American grassroots campaign. The supporters call on lawmakers to address national priorities, including modernizing the permitting process necessary to build critical infrastructure and boost domestic energy production. Other priorities include ensuring that infrastructure funding moves expeditiously from Washington to urgently needed project sites, and passing a farm bill to guarantee a safe and abundant food supply for all Americans. AEM’s Kip Eideberg says, "Lawmakers must act to ensure that the 2.3 million men and women of our industry can out-innovate and outcompete the rest of the world. The campaign includes 88,000 letters to Capitol Hill. AEM’s I Make America campaign engaged CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2023’s 139,000 attendees to raise awareness for the policies that will strengthen the industry and ensure that equipment manufacturers can continue to make the equipment that builds, powers, and feeds the world. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Meat and Dairy Production Lead Food Sector Sales New data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows meat processing and dairy product manufacturing are the largest components of food sector sales. Food and beverage manufacturing plants transform raw food commodities into products for intermediate or final consumption by using labor, machinery, energy, and scientific knowledge. These plants accounted for nearly $267 billion or 16.8 percent of sales, shipment values, and revenue from all U.S. manufacturing plants in 2021, according to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census’ Annual Survey of Manufactures. Meat processing is the largest industry group in food and beverage manufacturing, with 26.2 percent of sales in 2021. Meat processing includes livestock and poultry slaughter, processing, and rendering. Dairy product manufacturing, which ranges from fluid milk to frozen desserts, accounted for the second-most sales at 12.8 percent in 2021. Other important industry groups by sales include other foods, beverages, and grain and oilseeds. Other foods include snack foods, coffee and tea, flavorings, and dressings. *********************************************************************************** NFU: Colorado Right to Repair Law a Win for Farmers Across the Country The National Farmers Union calls the signing of Colorado’s Right to Repair law a win for all farmers and ranchers. Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed the Consumer Right to Repair Agricultural Equipment Act this week. NFU President Rob Larew says, "seeing a bill like this cross the finish line is a testament to the persistence of our members and the need for this issue to be addressed nationally." Major farm equipment manufacturers have refused to make the software tools necessary to repair modern tractors, combines, and other farm equipment available to farmers and independent mechanics. This leaves farmers no choice but to take their broken equipment to licensed dealerships, which has led to repair delays and inflated repair costs. Right to Repair is a key issue in NFU's Fairness for Farmers campaign, which aims to build fairer and more competitive agricultural markets, and to address the monopoly crisis in agriculture. *********************************************************************************** USDA’s CLEAR30 Enrollment Open Farmers and landowners with certain expiring Conservation Reserve Program contracts can receive additional rental incentives and extend that land’s role in conservation for another 30 years. The Department of Agriculture has opened the signup period for its Clean Lakes, Estuaries, And Rivers enrollment, known as CLEAR30, now through July 31, 2023. CLEAR30 is a part of the CLEAR initiative, which prioritizes water quality practices as a part of Continuous CRP enrollment, and is one of several CRP enrollment opportunities. CLEAR30 allows producers and landowners enrolling certain water quality practices to enroll in 30-year contracts, extending the lifespan and strengthening the benefits of important water quality practices on their land. Like other CRP enrollments, CLEAR30 is a voluntary, incentive-based conservation opportunity offered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency. To sign up for CLEAR30, landowners and producers should contact their local USDA Service Center by July 31, 2023.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 27, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Thursday, the same time as U.S. weekly jobless claims, first-quarter U.S. GDP and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. An index of U.S. pending home sales in March is out at 9 a.m., followed by the Energy Department's natural gas storage report at 9:30 a.m. Weather A system is moving across the South with areas of thunderstorms and heavier rainfall. This system continues to press eastward and may contain some severe storms near the Gulf Coast. To the north, another system is moving through the Northern Plains and will produce scattered showers as its cold front dives south throughout the day. Frosts occurred in the eastern Midwest again this morning, yet another day of risk for more-advanced wheat and emergent corn and soybeans.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 26, 2023 |

Number of U.S. Farms Continues to Decline New data released Tuesday by USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the number of U.S. farms continues to decline. After peaking at 6.8 million farms in 1935, the number of U.S. farms and ranches fell sharply through the early 1970s. Researchers say the rapidly falling farm numbers in the mid-20th century reflect the growing productivity of agriculture, increased mechanization, and increased nonfarm employment opportunities. Since 1982, the number of U.S. farms has continued to decline, but much more slowly. In 2022, there were 2.0 million U.S. farms, down from 2.2 million in 2007. Similarly, the acres of land in farms continue a downward trend with 893 million acres in 2022, down from 915 million acres ten years earlier. The average farm size in 2022 was 446 acres, only slightly greater than the 440 acres recorded in the early 1970s. The data comes as USDA this year predicts net farm income at $136.9 billion in calendar year 2023, a decrease of $25.9 billion relative to 2022. *********************************************************************************** Inflation Impacting Organic Fresh Produce Sales Inflation continued to impact organic fresh produce sales in the first quarter of 2023. Overall dollar sales grew by slightly less than one percent, and volume declined by 3.4 percent from the same year-over-year period. The data was released by the Organic Produce Network this week and included in its Q1 2023 Organic Produce Performance Report. Overall, the total produce department gained 2.6 percent in dollars for Q1 2023 compared to the same period in 2022 and declined by 1.3 percent in volume. Sales of organic fresh produce totaled nearly $2.4 billion for the first quarter of 2023, while overall volume topped 703 million pounds. Conventional produce dollars rose higher than organic dollars by about two percent and declined in volume by a smaller degree than organic. Current trends show both conventional and organic produce volume shrinking year over year. However, while volume for conventional produce is below 2020 and organics are on par with 2020, both are consistently gaining in dollars. *********************************************************************************** Coalition Urges Protection of IRA Conservation Funds in Farm Bill A coalition of lawmakers urges the House Agriculture Committee to protect the nearly $20 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act for climate-smart agriculture programs in the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill. The House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition made the request this week in a letter to Committee leadership. The letter states, “The $19.5 billion in Inflation Reduction Act investments for Farm Bill Title II conservation programs and technical assistance within USDA is critical to fighting climate change, and the next Farm Bill represents a significant opportunity to strengthen climate-resilience.” The letter was signed by coalition co-chairs, Representatives Chellie Pingree and Kim Schrier, along with the 16 other members of the task force. The letter explains that because agriculture also holds the potential to store significant quantities of carbon, it represents a unique opportunity to tackle climate change. The coalition was founded in January 2009 to advocate for policies for clean energy innovation, environmental protection, and policies that address global climate change. *********************************************************************************** USDA Proposes Changes to Salmonella Regulations for Select Poultry Products USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service proposed to declare Salmonella an adulterant in breaded stuffed raw chicken products. Under the proposal, FSIS would consider any breaded stuffed raw chicken products that include a chicken component that tested positive for Salmonella at one colony forming unit per gram before stuffing and breading to be adulterated. FSIS also proposes to carry out verification procedures, including sampling and testing the chicken component of breaded stuffed raw chicken products prior to stuffing and breading, to ensure producing establishments control Salmonella. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the proposal "represents the first step in a broader effort to control Salmonella contamination in all poultry products." The announcement is part of USDA's proposed regulatory framework to reduce Salmonella infections linked to poultry products, released in October 2022. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that Salmonella bacteria cause approximately 1.35 million human infections in the United States every year, with 23 percent attributed to poultry consumption. *********************************************************************************** USDA APHIS Announces New Strategic Plan USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Tuesday released a new five-year strategic plan for the agency. The plan incorporates input received from stakeholders on the strategic framework published in June 2022. The plan includes six strategic goals, outlining the objectives and performance measures that set the direction for the agency. The goals focus on protecting agriculture from plant and animal diseases and pests, positioning the agency's workforce to better meet current and future challenges, delivering solutions that reduce the impacts of zoonotic and emerging diseases, and ecosystem changes, such as climate change, expanding safe trade, managing wildlife diseases, and promoting the welfare of animals. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service protects the health of U.S. agriculture and natural resources against invasive pests and diseases, regulates genetically engineered crops, administers the Animal Welfare Act, and helps people and wildlife coexist. APHIS also certifies the health of U.S. agricultural exports and resolves phytosanitary and sanitary trade issues. *********************************************************************************** Vroom Joins Stratovation Group Board Stratovation Group Tuesday announced the addition of Jay Vroom to its Board of Advisors. After retiring as President and CEO of CropLife America, Vroom continues to be active as an agricultural leader and consultant to numerous national agricultural organizations. Vroom says, “Stratovation is bringing exciting new energy to the food and ag market with innovative approaches to both research and strategic advice for clients.” Vroom joins other executives on the Stratovation Group Board of Advisors, including Missouri Farmer Blake Hurst; Russ Green, managing director of MACKAYBEN; Kristen Snow, CEO of Level D&I; Jenn Wells, president of TalentID; and Ward Hill, CEO of Candor Hill. Stratovation Group Chief Operating Officer Mace Thornton says of Vroom, “He’s the kind of person who cares and you want to have in your corner.” Stratovation Group provides market research and intelligence, strategy and consulting, marketing and branding, along with web content services to the agricultural sector.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 26, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets A report of U.S. durable goods orders in March will be watched at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday as the market is wary of a possible slowdown in the economy. The U.S. Energy Department will have its weekly inventory report at 9:30 a.m., including ethanol production. As usual, the latest weather forecasts will also be of interest. Weather A storm system has been and continues to produce heavier rainfall in the Southern Plains on Wednesday. The rain does come with a risk of severe storms, mostly across parts of central Texas, but the heavy rain should reduce the impacts of the deep drought that have gripped the region. Still, one storm will not eliminate drought. Other showers will move across the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies throughout the day as well. Cold temperatures remain in place with frosts this morning and another day of risk tomorrow across the eastern Midwest.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 25, 2023 |

Court issues another blow to WOTUS Another day, another ruling against the Biden Administration’s Waters of the United States rule. This time the Sixth Circuit Federal Court of Appeals issued a stay on enforcing the rule in Kentucky until May 10. That means WOTUS is now the law of the land in only 23 states. Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron says the ruling stops the Biden administration from enforcing what he considers to be a burdensome rule. “This is an important win for Kentuckians, especially our farmers, who were being unnecessarily burdened by these new restrictions,” Cameron says. “We are grateful to the court and will be working to make this ruling permanent in the weeks and months ahead.” A federal judge had previously denied a request by the State of Kentucky and the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce to issue an injunction against WOTUS. The State and Chamber then asked the appellate court to issue a stay pending their appeal. In their ruling, Circuit Court Judges Ralph Guy, Raymond Kethledge and John Bush said they granted the stay because the federal government failed to identify any particular interest in immediate enforcement of WOTUS. “Given the circumstances, an administrative stay is necessary to preserve the status quo and to provide us with the opportunity to give reasoned consideration to the plaintiff’s motion for an injunction pending appeal,” the judges said in their ruling. This is the latest in a series of legal blows against WOTUS. In March, a federal court judge issued an injunction halting the rule in Texas and Idaho. On April 12, a North Dakota District Court Judge issued an injunction against the law in 24 additional states. While multiple lawsuits continue to make their way through various courts, all eyes remain on the Supreme Court and its ruling in the Sacket v. EPA case. That ruling is expected by early summer. Many observers believe the court’s decision could significantly limit EPA’s regulatory authority.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 25, 2023 |

AFBF: Families Deserve Truth in Food Labeling America's families deserve to know what they're buying when shopping in the dairy aisle, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. AFBF Monday filed comments with the Food and Drug Administration. The comments call on the agency to enforce food labeling standards for dairy substitute products and enforce existing prohibitions on the misleading labeling of nut- and other plant-based beverage products as "milk." AFBF supports a consumer's right to access dairy-free products, but one in four Americans, 83 million people, are confused or have been misled about whether dairy alternatives contain milk, according to a survey used by FDA. AFBF Public Policy Vice President Sam Kieffer says, "Consumers know the healthiness of dairy labels such as 'milk' and may infer that any product bearing this term possesses the same or an equivalent nutritional profile." AFBF is urging FDA to require non-dairy products to be labeled accurately, as is required in several markets outside of the U.S. For instance, "almond milk" is labeled "almond beverage" in Canada. *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces New National Institute of Food and Agriculture Director The Department of Agriculture Monday announced the appointment of Manjit K. Misra as the new Director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says, “Dr. Misra is an esteemed scientist and educator whose devotion to studying and sharing his knowledge of seeds with the world will benefit society and inspire generations to come.” Before joining USDA, Dr. Misra served as a Professor of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University. For more than 30 years, he was Director of the university’s Seed Science Center. The center has administered the National Seed Health System, authorized by USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, since 2001. Dr. Misra also was founding Director of the Iowa State’s Biosafety Institute for Genetically Modified Agricultural Products. The NIFA Director leads the agency’s work in advancing agricultural research, education, and extension to solve societal challenges. Dr. Misra will start his new role on Monday, May 8, 2023. *********************************************************************************** Winter Cover Crops Could Reduce Nitrogen in Drainage Water As Corn Belt states seek ways to curb nitrogen flow from farms into the Gulf of Mexico, new research suggests winter cover crops can help. Research from the University of Illinois finds widespread planting of cereal rye in Illinois could reduce nitrate in the state's tile drainage water by 30 percent. The team simulated both cover crop planting and fertilizer timing under real climatic conditions in Illinois between 2001 and 2020. They used a crop simulation model known as Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer, which allows multi-year growth projections for more than 42 crops. Two management implications were revealed in the study. One is that farmers should apply a winter cover crop, such as cereal rye, to reduce tile water flow and nitrate loss by 25 and 30 percent, respectively. The data also reinforced that farmers should switch to spring fertilization, if possible. Cover crop adoption remains low in Illinois and the Midwest despite the availability of cost-sharing programs and growing evidence touting benefits. *********************************************************************************** California Lawmakers Request Disaster Relief for Farmers A coalition of California lawmakers Monday requested a disaster recovery package to aid California farms and ranches devastated by historic storms earlier this year. The coalition, which includes Representatives Jim Costa, Jimmy Panetta and Zoe Lofgren, made the request in a letter to House leadership. The letter states, “We, therefore, request a disaster recovery package be swiftly put together to allow the rebuilding and recovery process to begin,” From December 27, 2022, to January 16, 2023, California had nine atmospheric rivers–each of which held as much water as a hurricane–producing powerful storms. Areas of California saw more than $500 million in estimated flood and storm damage to agricultural operations. Subsequent storms in California from February through March complicate recovery efforts further–with claims filed with the Farm Service Agency already numbering more than 1,000 and assessments still ongoing. California has more agricultural production than any other state in the union, with nearly 70,000 farms operated on 24.3 million acres. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Number of Limited-Service Restaurants in Rural America Growing The food-away-from-home retail landscape continues to evolve. USDA’s Economic Research Service recently examined the changing food-away-from-home landscape in nonmetropolitan counties between 1990 and 2019, with a focus on the most rural counties. As of 1990, full-service restaurants were the most common restaurant type, making up 76 percent of all food-away-from-home establishments in these counties. However, over the last several decades, the composition shifted. While full-service restaurants remain the most common in rural counties, their prominence has fallen from about 75 percent of establishments to about 50 percent of establishments in 2019. By contrast, quick-service restaurants have become increasingly popular. Quick-service restaurants accounted for 18 percent of the total number of establishments in rural counties in 1990 but have since doubled, making up 36 percent of all food-away-from-home establishments in 2019. USDA researchers conclude that the shift could affect overall food options available for consumers in these rural areas. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Bran Rises as an Ingredient for Enhancing Gluten-Free Bread Sorghum bran, often a low-cost byproduct of sorghum milling, can enhance gluten-free bread's nutritional value without compromising its flavor, according to a new study. USDA’s Agricultural Research Service studied sorghum bran to improve gluten-free foods. One of the USDA researchers says, “we used optimization models to create a gluten-free bread with enhanced dietary fiber while preserving other desirable bread attributes such as color, texture, and flavor.” The study found that people liked the gluten-free bread that contains 14.2 percent sumac sorghum bran. According to the National Institutes of Health, about two million people in the United States have celiac disease, an autoimmune condition, and must avoid dietary gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Additionally, over 20 percent of U.S. consumers purchase gluten-free products without a medical reason. The potential health benefits provided by tannin-containing sorghum bran in gluten-free foods can benefit consumers who must avoid gluten as well as those seeking other food options.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 25, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Traders will keep up with the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m. CDT Tuesday for a possible export sales announcement. Reports on U.S. new home sales in March and consumer confidence in April will both be out at 9 a.m. USDA's monthly report of cold storage follows at 2 p.m. Weather A storm system will enter into the Southern Plains on Tuesday, with increasing coverage and intensity of showers and thunderstorms throughout the day, providing some relief for the hardest-hit drought areas in the country. Colder temperatures continue east of the Rockies, limiting fieldwork and planting.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 24, 2023 |

Natural Gas May Get More Expensive in the Future Natural gas is an important source of energy for U.S. farms. While U.S. natural gas futures prices have fallen sharply recently, CoBank says higher prices and increased volatility could be on the long-term horizon as the energy transition accelerates and European markets respond to recent supply constraints. Rising U.S. exports of liquefied natural gas, fewer opportunities for fuel switching between coal and gas, and supply chain bottlenecks may contribute to higher domestic energy costs in the future. “Over the past 100 years, the U.S. has been a natural gas island with domestic supply sufficient to meet the nation’s requirements,” says a CoBank report. “From a pricing perspective, domestic consumers benefited from their proximity to natural gas reserves and experienced only brief periods of high prices.” However, as natural gas production expanded, it became necessary for exports to grow, increasing potential price volatility as the U.S. and EU markets became more connected. *********************************************************************************** Consumers Save 25 Cents a Gallon With E15 A new analysis from the Renewable Fuels Association shows American drivers saved an average of more than 25 cents per gallon since the beginning of 2022 with E15. RFA analyzed more than 3,000 actual pump prices for E15 and E10 submitted by drivers to E15prices.com. The average of 1,520 prices reported for E10 was $3.69 per gallon, while the average for corresponding E15 prices was $3.41 per gallon. Thus, the average discount for E15 was 27 cents per gallon or 7.4 percent. “The review of prices submitted by drivers shows lower-carbon E15 is providing real savings for American families,” says RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “At a time when U.S. drivers were facing record high gas prices, this report confirms that E15 delivered relief at the pump.” As a result, Cooper’s group is urging the administration to carefully review data as it considers allowing the sale of E15 this summer. *********************************************************************************** FDA Extends Comment Period on Plant-Based “Milk” Labeling The U.S. dairy industry is concerned about plant-based milks in grocery stores carrying the label “milk.” The Food and Drug Administration announced it is reopening the public comment period on draft guidance for labeling plant-based products. “The FDA is reopening the comment period in response to requests from industry stakeholders for more time for interested people to develop and submit comments,” the agency says. Food Safety News says the draft recommendations were initially published in February and are for industry comments on naming plant-based beverages that are marketed and sold as alternatives to milk. The draft guidance also recommends voluntary nutrient statements for labeling some of the plant-based milk alternatives. Products made from plant materials like tree nuts and legumes are often labeled “milk.” The FDA’s draft guidance from February doesn’t apply to other plant-based dairy alternatives like plant-based cheese or yogurt alternatives. Interested parties can submit their comments at regulations.gov. *********************************************************************************** China Aims for More Self-Sufficiency in Food Production China is one of the biggest trading partners for the U.S. However, the South China Morning Post says the Southeast Asian nation may be attempting to change that. The country aims to increase soybean production this year in an attempt to become more self-sufficient and import less food. Escalating geopolitical tensions are one of the big reasons for the change. China will try to increase its national soybean yield by 11 pounds per mu, which is a Chinese unit of land measurement equal to approximately 0.165 acres. China imports more than 80 percent of the soybeans used to feed its people and livestock, and shipments come mainly from Brazil and the U.S. That heavy reliance on imported commodities has raised significant governmental concerns about its food security. However, Chinese farmers appear less motivated to grow beans than last year because of the low market price of soybeans and their low benefits. *********************************************************************************** Lamb Board Releases Final Video in Lamb Quality Series The American Lamb Board released the final video in its five-part series emphasizing lamb quality. The final video’s title is “Retail Meat Yield.” The overall goal of the video series is to help the U.S. lamb industry provide a consistently high-quality product for Americans’ dinner plates. “By emphasizing lean meat growth in U.S. sheep, we can make lambs with more muscle and less fat and improved yield and value,” says Peter Camino, ALB Chair. “That increases our commercial lamb industry competitiveness with imported lamb and other animal protein sources.” He also says it’s in the best interest of progressive sheep producers to produce a protein product that consistently meets consumers’ expectations and delights their taste buds.” Trim, muscular lambs harvested at the appropriate time return more value for the entire U.S. sheep and lamb industry. “Retail Meat Yield” is available at LambResourceCenter.com or on the American Lamb Board’s YouTube channel. *********************************************************************************** Corn, Soybean Export Sales Drop Data from USDA shows that corn and soybean sales to overseas buyers declined in the seven days ending on April 13. Exporters sold 312,400 metric tons of corn for offshore delivery for 2022-2023, down 41 percent from the prior week and 79 percent from the four-week average. The top three buyers were China, Saudi Arabia, and Colombia. Exports rose 42 percent to 1.3 million metric tons. USDA says soybean sales were down 73 percent week-over-week to 100,100 metric tons for 2022-2023. The top three buyers were the Netherlands, Mexico, and China. The USDA report says exports dropped 15 percent week-over-week to 582,800 metric tons. Wheat sales improved 91 percent from the prior week and 93 percent from the four-week average, coming in at 259,000 metric tons. South Korea was the top wheat buyer, followed by Taiwan and the Philippines. Overall exports for the week dropped 28 percent to 202,800 metric tons.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 24, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Starting a new week, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and be attentive to any news affecting outside markets. USDA's weekly report of export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT, followed by the Crop Progress report at 3 p.m. Recent concerns include planting in the Northern Plains, falling soybean prices in China and the condition of Brazil's corn crop. Weather A trough of low-pressure overhead continues cold temperatures across most areas east of the Rockies Monday, including some frosty temperatures this morning as far south as Oklahoma and Tennessee. A small trough moving down the Rockies will develop showers in the Southern Plains later today, which will be enhanced over the next couple of days, bringing optimism for those in drought.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 21, 2023 |

U.S. Government Planning Year-Round Sales of E15 Next Year The Biden administration is planning to begin year-round sales of E15 in 2024. Oil Price Dot Com says the Environmental Protection Agency feels the move will help reduce the retail price of fuel. Eight Midwestern states originally asked the EPA for waivers to provide E15 fuel this summer. EPA chief Michael Regan says the agency studied if they could make the change this year but decided there wasn’t enough time to allow for final adequate rule-making. Regan told the House Agriculture Committee that the agency will look into issuing temporary emergency waivers to allow sales of E15 this summer. The EPA proposed a rule in March that would allow year-round sales of E15 beginning in 2024. “There would be a significant disruption to consumer pricing and the like if we moved too quickly in 2023,” Regan says. “We are confident year-round E15 sales will be ready to go in 2024. *********************************************************************************** Oklahoma Signs Trade Pact with the UK British Trade Minister Nigel Huddleston signed a trade deal with the state of Oklahoma during a recent trip to Washington, D.C. Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt says the pact will focus on increasing trade through wider economic development on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean. It will also maintain a focus on reliable and affordable energy. As Oklahoma and the UK grow their economies through increased trade and development cooperation, that will strengthen businesses and create jobs on each side. The agreement will also allow the sides expand academic and research ties, as well as together in agriculture and food production. “Both the United Kingdom and Oklahoma share the same vision for providing reliable, affordable energy for our citizens,” Stitt says. “We can learn a lot from each other.” After the signing, Huddleston said, “I’m delighted that we’ve taken an important step forward in deepening our commercial and economic ties with Oklahoma.” *********************************************************************************** U.S. Dairy Leading on Climate Coalition The National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council have signed a set of principles and a new partnership with National Agricultural Organizations from several other countries. The goal is to constructively engage governments and international organizations around the world on the issues of livestock, agriculture, climate, and trade. The countries in the new partnership include Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Chile, Bolivia, and Colombia. USDEC and the NMPF will coordinate and support engagements with government officials and international organizations in promoting policies that encourage sustainable productivity growth while taking into consideration the unique needs of the livestock industry as well as profitability for farmers. The U.S dairy groups point out that, “Far too often, global convenings and climate proposals reflect ideologies at the expense of science, ignore any progress that the industry already made in reducing emissions, and try to impose one-size-fits-all solutions on industries they don’t fully understand.” *********************************************************************************** Smithfield Foods Wins Environmental and Safety Awards The North American Meat Institute recently held its 2022 environmental awards and worker safety recognition programs. Smithfield Foods won awards for its environmental and safety achievements. “Protecting the environment, including decreasing our carbon footprint, implementing water conservation strategies, and reducing packaging have all been Smithfield priorities for decades,” says Stewart Leeth, chief sustainability officer for Smithfield. “These priorities are all part of our constant commitment to producing good food the right way.” Five Smithfield facilities were recognized with NAMI’s environmental recognition awards, which acknowledge commitment to continuous environmental improvement through the development and implementation of Environmental Management Systems. Forty of the company’s facilities were recognized with Tier 4 awards, the highest recognition in the category. Also, 29 Smithfield locations earned the organization’s highest worker safety recognition awards. Smithfield earned an honorable mention in the DEI category for its industry-leading programs that attract and retain minority and underrepresented employees and customers. *********************************************************************************** Legislation to Improve Flexibility of Farmland Conservation Program Senators Michael Bennett of Colorado and Roger Marshall of Kansas introduced the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program Improvement Act. The bill would provide the flexibility family farmers and ranchers need to conserve water on working lands while fairly compensating them for retiring their water rights or limiting their water use. “With the CREP Improvement Act, we can give farmers the flexibility they need to conserve their water supply and pass their operations to their kids and grandkids,” Bennett says. The act would improve the CREP program in several ways, including directing USDA to allow dryland agricultural uses on CREP acreage where appropriate. Other improvements include specifically adding dryland crop production and grazing to the list of appropriate conservation practices for the CREP program. “Time and again, we hear USDA is being too rigid in their interpretation of good programs, and this bill will help give farmers and ranchers more flexibility,” Marshall says. *********************************************************************************** Iowa Legislature Passes Bill Allowing Raw Milk Sales It’s taken years, but the Iowa Legislature gave its final approval on a bill that would allow Iowa residents to buy fresh-from-the-farm raw milk. After several failed attempts, the state Senate approved the final bill 37-13 and sent it to Governor Kim Reynolds for her signature. The bill previously passed the Iowa House with amendments. It allows producers to sell unpasteurized milk from their farms directly to Iowa residents, as well as cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and other raw milk products. “I call it the fresh milk bill,” says Senator Jason Schultz, the bill’s manager on the Senate floor. He told the Des Moines Register that he’s waited 17 years for a raw milk bill to get through the Iowa legislature. The bill’s supporters say raw milk tastes better and has more nutrients. Opponents say it can contain bacteria that are dangerous to children and could spark a public health outbreak.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 21, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets After two days of bearish risk-off selling, traders may be a little touchy at the end of the week, but Thursday's economic news was not encouraging. Traders will continue to keep watch over the latest weather developments and any talk of what the Federal Reserve will do on May 3. At 2 p.m. CDT, USDA will issue the cattle on-feed report for April 1, the only significant report of the day. Weather A storm system spinning in northern Minnesota is producing scattered snow showers across the Northern Plains and Upper Midwest, which may come in short, heavy bursts at times throughout the day. A front is bringing showers from far east Texas to Indiana that will be pushed eastward throughout the day. Cold temperatures are filling in behind the front, which will lead to some frosty morning temperatures in the Plains over the weekend.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 20, 2023 |

Continuing Contract Negotiations at West Coast Ports Concerning Increasing attention is getting devoted to the West Coast port contract negotiations between the Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union. The concern is because of the recent and continued slowdowns and temporary work stoppages at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. “Given how the tension between the two parties appears to be increasing, this topic will likely remain a significant point of discussion for the foreseeable future,” says Mike Steenhoek (STEEN-hook), executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition. A recent work stoppage from April 6 to April 7 at both ports and the subsequent slowdowns were “deliberately disruptive,” according to the PMA, the group that represents 70 terminal operators. The two parties have been negotiating a new five-year contract since July 1, 2022. These negotiations don’t apply to the bulk of exports of soybeans and grain from Pacific Northwest ports, which operate under separate contracts. *********************************************************************************** Farm Lending Slows as Interest Rates Rise Growth in farm lending activity at commercial banks was limited in the first quarter of 2023 as interest rates climbed higher. The Kansas City Fed says alongside additional increases in the federal funds’ rates, interest rates on farm loans rose sharply. The rapid rise has shifted the range of rates offered to borrowers considerably higher. Non-real estate farm loan volumes decreased about 10 percent from the previous year in the first quarter of 2023, following average growth of 15 percent in 2022. Lending activity was pushed down by fewer new loans and smaller-sized operating loans. The outlook for farm finances remains favorable alongside elevated commodity prices, but higher interest rates, increased production costs, and drought remain key ongoing concerns. Strong farm income during recent years has bolstered liquidity for many producers and supported historically strong farm loan performance. Despite higher interest rates, the availability of credit remains strong at agricultural banks. *********************************************************************************** USCA Affirming Safety, Transparency of Beef Supply Chain The U.S. Cattlemen’s Association responded to efforts in the Missouri State Legislature to regulate products sold, distributed for use, or administered to a person that are designed to alter their genome. Missouri House Bill 1169 attempts to implement a regulatory framework for labeling products that could act as “gene therapy” or that could potentially impact, alter, or introduce genetic material or a genetic change in the user. This came about because of concerns that mRNA vaccines are being introduced into the nation’s cattle supply. “The USCA strongly supports truth in labeling on consumer goods and full transparency throughout the supply chain,” the group said in a statement. “Currently, there are no mRNA vaccines licensed for beef cattle in the U.S..” Similar legislation is also being introduced in Tennessee, Arizona, and other states. The USCA will be forming a task force to develop a fact- and science-based assessment of the issue. *********************************************************************************** WOTUS Veto Override Fails in Congress The House of Representatives was unsuccessful in getting enough votes to override President Biden’s veto of legislation undoing a rule defining the Clean Water Act’s jurisdiction. The vote failed 227-196 and didn’t meet the two-thirds requirement for overriding a presidential veto. Successful Farming says Republicans persuaded ten Democrats to vote against the Biden EPA’s rule, including House Ag Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) and Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-GA). The rule specified what wetlands, streams, and other waterways qualify for federal protection as Waters of the United States. Critics like farmers, land developers, and construction companies have called the policy “extreme government overreach.” In March, both the House and Senate passed a disapproval resolution with bipartisan support that would have scrapped Biden’s Waters of the U.S. Rule. Two federal judges have issued preliminary injunctions against implementing the WOTUS rule in 26 states while lawsuits are heard regarding the validity of the regulation. *********************************************************************************** The Number of Dairy Herds Fell in 2022 A USDA report says roughly six percent of U.S. dairy farms quit milking cows in 2022, but that was a slower rate of decline than during the past five years. Twenty years ago, there were 70,375 dairy herds in the country. In 2022, there were 27,932 herds, down from 29,842 in 2021. Calendar-year 2022 saw an exit of 1,910 dairy herds across the nation, which was about six percent of the country’s dairy operations. That compares to a loss of 1,794 herds nationwide, or 5.7 percent of the country’s total, in 2021. However, the decline was larger during the previous three years. Over the past two decades, the U.S. lost an average of 2,300 dairy herds per year. Meanwhile, dairy cow numbers dropped slightly. The average herd size is growing, and per-cow and total milk production have increased. The average dairy herd size reached a record high of 337 head in 2022. *********************************************************************************** NCBA Files Comments on USDA Traceability Rule The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association filed comments on the USDA’s proposed traceability rule. The rule would emphasize the importance of electronic animal identification to protect the cattle industry from the threat of a foreign animal disease. USDA’s proposed rule would apply to cattle 18 months or older only when moving interstate. “Traceability is about risk protection and ensuring we have the tools to quickly identify and respond to an outbreak while strengthening consumer trust in our high-quality beef,” says NCBA President Todd Wilkinson. “Our comments emphasize protecting U.S. cattle herds from the threat of a foreign animal disease while also protecting producers’ private data, limiting the cost of tagging devices, and operating at the speed of commerce.” Without a national traceability system in place, the impact of a foreign animal disease outbreak would be magnified. The system would also support cattle producers in quickly returning to normal operations after an outbreak.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 20, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department's weekly report of natural gas storage is set for 9:30 a.m., followed by U.S. existing home sales in March and an index of U.S. leading indicators at 10 a.m. Weather A system is moving through the middle of the country Thursday morning with a line of thunderstorms from Iowa to Oklahoma, more in the Great Lakes, and snow in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies. The system will continue to wind up over the middle of the country today, with a risk of severe storms from Illinois down through Texas. Winds across the Plains and Midwest will be breezy and more dust storms are possible for western Kansas. Temperatures are falling rapidly behind a cold front moving through.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 19, 2023 |

NPPC Issues Q2 Economic Update The National Pork Producers Council released its second quarter pork industry economic update that provides a look at the top pork industry issues, trends, and market conditions impacting farmers. The report shows pork production increased 2.3 percent through the first quarter, with the USDA now projecting a 1.4 percent annual increase in pork production this year. Retail, wholesale, and farm-level prices show a year-over-year decline. Pork and variety meat exports gained momentum in the first quarter of 2023. Pork producer returns for the remainder of this year will be influenced by various factors, including domestic and export pork demand and input prices. “The U.S. is a worldwide leader in pork production, which is a significant contributor to the U.S. economy,” says Duane Stateler, NPPC Vice President. “Pork producers will continue navigating the economic challenges to ensure we raise safe, wholesome, and affordable food for communities here and around the world.” *********************************************************************************** USDA Announces Grassland Conservation Reserve Program Signup The USDA announced that agricultural producers and private landowners can begin signing up for the Grassland Conservation Reserve Program now through May 26. Among CRP enrollment opportunities, Grassland CRP is a unique working lands program, allowing producers and landowners to continue haying and grazing practices while conserving grasslands and promoting plant and animal biodiversity as well as healthier soil. “Grassland CRP clearly demonstrates that agricultural productivity and conservation priorities can not only coexist but also complement and enhance one another,” says Zach Ducheneaux, administrator of the Farm Service Agency. “The strength of the program lies in its many benefits.” More than 3.1 million acres were accepted through the 2022 Grassland CRP signup from agricultural producers and private landowners. That was the highest-ever level of signups for the program. The current total participation in Grassland CRP is 6.3 million acres. For information or to signup, go to your local USDA Service Center. *********************************************************************************** Wall Street Rules Don’t Belong on Family Farms Wall Street rules intended for publicly-traded companies shouldn’t extend to family farms. That’s the message from the American Farm Bureau and six other agricultural groups to the Securities and Exchange Commission. The SEC proposed a rule to require public companies to report on Scope 3 emissions, which are the result of activities not owned or controlled by a publicly-traded company but contribute to its value chain. Public companies that produce goods from agricultural products would need to report emissions from the relevant agricultural operations. The farm groups’ concern is that the rule will burden family farmers and ranchers and drive further consolidation in agriculture, all for no real environmental benefit. “The tracking will be extremely expensive, invasive, and burdensome for farmers and ranchers, at the cost of improved production practices that will generate actual environmental gains,” the groups say in the letter to the SEC. “Family farms will get hit hardest.” *********************************************************************************** Scott Condemns SNAP Work Requirements House Agriculture Committee Ranking Member David Scott (D-GA) released a statement responding to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s debt limit framework. If that framework gets passed as proposed, it will include what Scott calls additional “punitive” work requirements for SNAP participation. “Let me be perfectly clear,” Scott says. “Holding food assistance hostage for those who depend on it, including 15.3 million children, 5.8 million seniors, and 1.2 million veterans, in exchange for increasing the debt limit is a non-starter.” He also points out that the “ransom note” McCarthy unveiled in front of a crowd of Wall Street bankers is dead on arrival. “Republican attempts to punish low-income families to pay for tax cuts they pushed through under President Trump will not result in self-sufficiency,” Scott says. “It will only drastically increase hunger for our American people.” He says the additional work requirements on top of already-existing work rules won’t spur economic growth. *********************************************************************************** USDA Offers More Funding for Expanding High-Speed Internet in Rural Areas The USDA announced the availability of $20 million to deliver broadband technical assistance resources for rural communities and to support the development and expansion of broadband co-ops. The agency is offering the funding under the new Broadband Technical Assistance Program. The program supports technical assistance projects such as feasibility studies, completing network designs, and developing broadband financial assistance applications. Applicants can choose from one of three funding pools. “USDA is committed to making sure that people, no matter where they live, have access to high-speed internet,” says USDA Under Secretary for Rural Development Xochitl (zo-CHEEL) Torres Small. “That’s how you grow the economy not just in rural communities but across the nation.” The undersecretary also says the agency is partnering with small towns, local utilities, cooperatives, and private companies to increase access to a critical service. “The service builds brighter futures by creating more opportunities across rural America,” she says. *********************************************************************************** Ag Retailers Association List Top Five Farm Bill Priorities The Ag Retailers Association says it’s cautiously optimistic the Farm Bill gets written on time. However, the association is worried that debt limit discussions may interfere. It’s going to be tough this year with the farm bill coming up right as the debt ceiling discussion hits the deadline,” says Hunter Carpenter with the Ag Retailers Association. “I’m cautiously optimistic.” The group has five priorities they’re advocating for in the bill. They want the continuation of a strong farm safety net and crop insurance. They want to maintain the current acreage dedicated to conservation programs. Other priorities revolve around biologicals. The previous farm bill started to build a structure around defining plant biologicals. The new farm bill can go further in providing uniform definitions. They’d like to see the farm bill support research functions of USDA, including the National Agricultural Statistics Service. “We’re pushing hard to get it done this year,” he says.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 19, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Energy Department's weekly inventory report will be out at 9:30 a.m. CDT, including ethanol production. The Federal Reserve's Beige Book will follow at 1 p.m. Traders will continue to monitor the latest weather events around the world as the northern Hemisphere gradually shakes off a long winter season. Weather A multi-pronged system is moving into the Plains Wednesday and will be setting up conditions that favor increasing showers and thunderstorms across the middle of the country throughout the day, including some severe thunderstorms for the eastern Plains into Iowa. Across the north, it is cold enough for areas of snow in Montana, North Dakota and across the border into Saskatchewan and Manitoba, where snowfall is likely to be heavy. Winds continue to be breezy across the Plains, which is unfavorable for crops in drought, mainly wheat.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 18, 2023 |

Farm Credit Reports on Ag Economy and Condition of Its System The Farm Credit Administration recently received a quarterly update on economic issues affecting agriculture as well as an update on the performance of the Farm Credit System through 2022. Inflation continues to be a core economic issue despite recent declines. Inflation has been driven, in part, by a tight labor market and rising production costs and consumer demand. The report also says strong prices for many commodities have continued into 2023. Tight global grain stocks, declining cattle inventory, and disruptions to specialty crop production continued to support prices. Input costs will remain high this year and curb farm profitability. With the end of the three-year La Niña pattern, drought conditions have improved across many parts of the country. The update also says the System reported strong financial results in 2022, including strong loan growth and higher earnings. The System’s loan portfolio continued to perform well, and portfolio credit quality remained strong. *********************************************************************************** Consider Corn Challenge Still Finding New Uses for Corn The National Corn Growers Association is launching its fourth Consider Corn Challenge. The open-innovation contest invites participants to submit proposals for new uses of field corn as a primary feedstock for producing novel sustainable chemicals and products with quantifiable market demand. “Consumers have a genuine interest in biobased products, and corn is investing in solutions that meet that need,” says NCGA Market Development Action Team Chair Troy Schneider. “In order to continue drawing in game-changing participation, the prize pool has increased to $250,000.” If all 15 winners of the first three Consider Corn Challenges reach full commercialization with products in the marketplace, the potential for additional corn demand would be approximately 3.4 billion bushels. One to six winners will be selected for the fourth Consider Corn Challenge. The submission deadline is June 30 at 5 p.m. Central Time, and winners will be announced in October. To learn more, go to ncga.com/ConsiderCorn. *********************************************************************************** NFU Supports Torres Small for Deputy Ag Secretary The National Farmers Union released a letter in support of the nomination and confirmation of Xochitl (Zo-CHEEL) Torres Small to serve as the Deputy Secretary of Agriculture at USDA. NFU President Rob Larew says current Under Secretary for Rural Development Torres Small has tirelessly served family farmers in New Mexico and the country. “She’s done amazing work for rural communities and supply chains that support our entire economy,” says Larew. “I’m proud to share our support knowing that Under Secretary Torres Small will make a positive impact as Deputy Secretary of the USDA.” NFU has a long history with Torres Small going back to her time as a member of Congress when she represented family farmers and ranchers in New Mexico. NFU urges the Senate Committee on Agriculture to advance Torres Small’s nomination to serve as Deputy Secretary of USDA and looks forward to working with her in the new role. *********************************************************************************** Taylor Leads USDA Trade Mission to the Netherlands USDA’s Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor launched the first-ever regional agribusiness trade mission to the Netherlands in Amsterdam. The delegation includes representatives from 31 agribusiness and farm organizations and ten state departments of agriculture. The group aims to expand economic partnerships between the U.S. and the Netherlands and markets throughout Scandinavia. “As the gateway to Europe for U.S. exports, the Netherlands is an important trading partner,” Taylor says. “Company representatives from Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden are joining us in Amsterdam.” She also says with combined total agricultural and related exports to these markets topping $4.5 billion in 2022, Taylor is confident the delegation will be successful in building new relationships that are critical to expanding opportunities for increased trade. USDA will help facilitate business-to-business meetings between small and medium-sized agribusinesses and regional buyers looking to import American farm and food products. *********************************************************************************** Optimism Despite Headwinds in the Ag Equipment Market Equipment manufacturers are still recovering from pressures brought on by COVID-19, but they’re working toward a state of normalcy despite trials and tribulations. Kip Eideberg is the Senior Vice President of Government and Industry Relations for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Eideberg says supply chain pressures and a lack of workforce retention have been ongoing struggles for the industry, and individual sectors are facing their own problems as well. A recent AEM survey of its members detailed the strains and pressures that have built up in the global ag sector during the last few years. “Overall, far too many equipment manufacturers still feel the impact of COVID and supply chain disruptions in operations, lead times on components, labor force participation, and financial performance,” says Eideberg. In tracking sales and global data, the ag equipment market is in a good position right now, and there’s more optimism moving forward despite economic headwinds. *********************************************************************************** Illinois Farmland Prices Up 45 Percent in Two Years Illinois farmland prices continued their upward curve in the last several years, and it applies to all classes of farmland throughout the state. That’s according to a report issued during the 2023 Illinois Farmland Values Conference sponsored by the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. Last year continued to see a sharp rise in land values. While certain parts of the state saw more strength than others, Illinois land values were up across the board. Class A land across Illinois rose 45 percent from 2021-2022. While premium acreage always carries the flag, the report says lesser quality acreage saw increases of over 25 percent and, in some instances, over 40 percent during the same period. The state’s professional farmland managers and appraisers said reduced transactions in 2020, historically-low interest rates, strong demand, increased commodity prices, and overall fear in other economic sectors all play a role in rising prices.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 18, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets Overnight, China reported first quarter GDP was up 4.5% from a year ago, better than expected, reported RTTNews.com. China's unemployment rate was 5.3% in March, also better than expected. A report on U.S. housing starts in March will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Tuesday. In addition to watching the latest weather developments, traders may be leery of Russia's next move. Weather A storm system in the West will move into the Plains on Tuesday, increasing showers and a few thunderstorms. Bouts of snow will develop over the far Northern Plains and into the Canadian Prairies. Winds will also be a little breezy in the Plains, unfavorable for winter wheat.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 17, 2023 |

Texas Barn Fire Kills 18,000 Dairy Cattle A Texas dairy farm suffered an explosion and fire that possibly resulted in the largest single-incident livestock death toll in history. Agriculture Dot Com says the Southfork Dairy Farm in Dimmitt, Texas, reports approximately 18,000 dairy cattle died in the blaze. The Castro County Sheriff’s Office said that was about 90 percent of the farm’s total herd. Investigators are working to find out the cause of the devastating fire. “They’re trying to determine if it came from machinery known as a honey wagon that sucks out manure and water,” says Castro County Sheriff Sal Rivera. “It may have possibly ignited methane gas.” The farm employs 60 workers, and all were accounted for. One female was trapped inside, and first responders were able to rescue her from the structure and airlifted her to a nearby hospital, where she’s critical but stable. Southfork Dairy Farm had been running for less than a year. *********************************************************************************** Brazil’s Record Soybean Harvest Continuing Brazil’s farmers will produce 153.6 million metric tons of soybeans this year. CONAB (KOH-nab), a private company that works under Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture, says that’s up 1.5 percent from their outlook last month. The USDA had projected Brazil’s soybean harvest to reach 154 million metric tons, one million tons higher than the previous forecast. USDA data showed that Brazil produced 130.5 million metric tons a year ago. Global soybean stocks were forecast by the agency at 100.3 million metric tons, up from the prior forecast of 100 million. If reached, that would be up from 99.7 million tons a year earlier. Brazil’s CONAB also expects the country’s corn production to reach a record 124.9 million metric tons, slightly higher than last month’s forecast. The forecast for Argentina’s soybean harvest continues to drop, coming in at 27 million metric tons. That’s six million tons lower than the March USDA forecast. *********************************************************************************** Farmers, Conservationists Ask Court to Strike Down Dicamba Public-interest groups representing farmers and conservationists filed arguments in court seeking to have the Environmental Protection Agency’s approval of dicamba struck down. The arguments are a continuation of an earlier lawsuit that resulted in a 2020 court ruling overturning prior approvals of dicamba as unlawful. The groups say the new litigation was prompted by the EPA’s decision to ignore the court’s ruling and move forward with reapproving the pesticide. “We now have years of incontrovertible evidence revealing that these dicamba products cannot be used without causing grave harm to other farmers and the environment,” says George Kimbrell, legal director of the Center for Food Safety and counsel in the case. The petitioners say dicamba drift and runoff damage natural areas and wildlife refuges, injuring wild flowering plants, including some federally-protected species on which bees and other insects rely. Plaintiff groups include the National Family Farm Coalition, Pesticide Action Network, and others. *********************************************************************************** Vilsack Urged to Deny Petitions on Make Allowance Hearing The American Dairy Coalition sent a letter to Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack asking him to deny two recent petitions for hearings on the Federal Milk Marketing Order. The petitions from processor groups ask USDA to increase payments from farmers to processors to offset higher input costs. The coalition says holding a federal milk pricing hearing on these “make-allowances” without looking into additional concerns facing dairy farmers is misaligned, and therefore ADC can’t support it. “As a grassroots dairy farmer organization, ADC believes a comprehensive FMMO hearing is needed,” says ADC CEO Laurie Fischer. “We do not support ‘make allowance’ updates based on processors having the ability to voluntarily participate in the cost surveys, which undoubtedly would exclude essential relevant data.” ADC also says farmers need transparency in order to understand how their net payment is calculated, and these make allowances are not line items, but they’re embedded in pricing formulas. *********************************************************************************** Ford Phasing Out AM Radios Globally Ford Canada confirms that it’s removing AM radios from all vehicles globally. Ford’s Canadian division says Canada will no longer have access to the AM band in upcoming vehicles. Radio Ink Dot Com says it’s the first confirmation that removing AM from dashboards won’t be isolated to the U.S. A Ford Canada spokesperson says that to listen to AM, all drivers have to do is link their phones to the vehicles entertainment system and stream the stations they’re looking for. Canada has more than 180 AM radio stations. Many of those stations broadcast news and information needed in remote areas that have less than ideal data coverage, making streaming difficult, if not impossible. The Canadian Association of Broadcasters says this marks another profound challenge to AM radio. “It’s unfortunate that the assumption is made that internet streaming of stations will be a suitable substitute in remote Canadian areas,” the group says. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Wheat Planted Area Projected at Seven-Year High The National Agricultural Statistics Service recently estimated the total U.S. 2023-2024 wheat planted area will be 49.9 million acres. That’s up nine percent from the previous year and would be the highest total since 2016-2017. The total winter wheat area is projected up 13 percent as high prices and strong profitability provides major incentives to plant. Hard Red Winter Wheat is projected up 13 percent to 26 million acres, even higher than the January 12 forecast. HRW production regions continue to be impacted by drought, which is likely to affect harvested area and yield. Soft Red Winter Wheat plantings are forecast up 19 percent from the previous year to 7.8 million acres, slightly below the January forecast. Hard Red Spring area is projected down three percent to ten million acres. But the area planted for this class will depend on planting conditions. Durum is projected up nine percent to 1.8 million acres.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 17, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - Field Progress, Frost Watch and Cattle on Feed OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of April 16. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. Frosty week: Weather models took a turn to the colder side as the weekend approached. DTN Ag Meteorologist John Baranick is watching to see if the trend continues through the week. This could bring frost to hard red winter areas, but unlikely be cold enough or long enough to cause much further damage. And, while planters have begun to move, it's also unlikely that there are too many emerged plants in the path of any significant frosts. Early planted gardens might benefit from some cover, however, on species prone to frost damage. 2. Fertilizer trending lower: Our DTN Staff Reporter Russ Quinn, who keeps a close eye on the fertilizer beat, has been documenting the downtrend in fertilizer prices -- and has noted anhydrous prices getting close to that $1,000 level. He'll report where prices landed the previous week. 3. Dairy disaster: We've been reporting on the terrible fire and cattle deaths at the dairy in Dimmit, Texas. Progressive Farmer Senior Editor Victoria Myers will continue following the saga to see if there are lessons to be learned for other large animal units. 4. Market news on our radar: DTN analysts will watch several market-moving actions through the week, especially the ongoing saga of the Black Sea grain deal. We'll have the USDA weekly export inspections at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, with soybean crush numbers from the National Oilseeds Processors Association later Monday morning. Also on Monday, at 3 p.m. CDT, USDA's Crop Progress and Livestock, Dairy and Poultry reports will be out. It will be interesting to see how planting progressed with the warmer weather the week of April 9. 5. Latest cattle call: Friday will see the USDA Cattle on Feed report, due out around 3 p.m. CDT. Watch for preview thoughts ahead of that, and DTN Livestock Analyst ShayLe Stewart's thoughts on the report soon after its release.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 17, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from the weekend, traders will get acquainted with the latest weather forecasts and any news, especially regarding Russian comments about the Black Sea grain deal. USDA's weekly export inspections will be out at 10 a.m. CDT Monday, followed by a report on members' soybean crush from the National Oilseeds Processors Association, later Monday morning. At 3 p.m., USDA's Crop Progress and Livestock, Dairy and Poultry reports will be out. Weather A storm system continues to bring snow to the Great Lakes area Monday, including heavy snow for parts of Wisconsin. This system will be winding down tonight but there is another one entering the Pacific Northwest which will send several pieces of energy through the country for the rest of the week.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 14, 2023 |

Colorado Passes First Right to Repair Legislation Colorado farmers will get the first opportunity to fix their own equipment next year, thanks to newly-approved right-to-repair legislation. Manufacturers will now be required to provide their customers with diagnostic software manuals and other aids. Colorado is the first U.S. state to approve this kind of law. The “Consumer Right to Repair Agriculture Equipment Act” passed the Colorado Senate 46-14 this week, while the state House passed the bill in February. The bill had bipartisan support as farmers’ profits were squeezed by expensive repairs and rapidly rising input prices. The legislation mandates that farm machinery manufacturers like Deere and CNH Industrial furnish their customers with diagnostic tools, software documents, and repair manuals beginning on January 1, 2024. Manufacturers must also provide those resources to independent technicians. A Deere spokesman told Reuters that the company supports farmers’ right to repair but believes this bill wasn’t necessary and will carry unintended consequences. *********************************************************************************** Ag Groups Respond Positively to Court Halting WOTUS Rule A court ruling out of North Dakota halted implementation of the 2023 Waters of the United States Rule in 24 states, and ag groups responded positively. American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall says his group proudly stood with the 24 states involved and more than a dozen organizations in this challenge. “Two District Courts have acknowledged the new rule oversteps EPA’s authority under the Clean Water Act,” Duvall says. “With the rule on hold in more than half the country, EPA and the U.S. Army Corps should do the right thing, listen to our legitimate concerns, and rewrite the rule.” The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association also applauded the court’s decision. “Cattle producers in a total of 26 states now have some additional certainty while this rule is being litigated, and we’re optimistic the Supreme Court will provide nationwide clarity on the federal government’s water jurisdiction,” says NCBA President Todd Wilkinson. *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Foundation Opens 2023-2024 Scholarship Applications The National Sorghum Foundation opened three scholarship applications for college students studying agriculture in the upcoming 2023-2024 academic year. The application deadline is June 1, 2023. In the 22 years that the National Sorghum Foundation has been in operation, more than 50 scholarships have been awarded to deserving agricultural students who excel in academics, leadership, and service. “The Foundation is excited to announce that three scholarships will be offered during the spring 2023 semester,” says National Sorghum Foundation Chair Jeff Dahlberg. “These scholarships are named in memory of three giants of the sorghum industry who served for many decades.” Each scholarship includes an award of $1,500 to be applied to one semester of tuition expenses, and one scholarship also includes an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., with the National Sorghum Producers. More information about each scholarship’s criteria and application forms for each scholarship can be found online at SorghumGrowers.com/foundation-scholarships. *********************************************************************************** USDA: Most Improved Award Winner in Best Place to Work Rankings The USDA announced that it’s received recognition for being the “Most Improved” for large federal agencies in the Partnership for Public Service’s 2022 Best Places to Work Rankings. The department now ranks 12th among very large agencies in the Best Places to Work Rankings, up from a 16th place ranking in 2020. “At USDA, we are committed to reaching new heights by cultivating a workplace environment that is collaborative, service-oriented, mission-centered, healthy, and inclusive,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “I’m pleased to see these results as we strive to live up to the moniker of ‘the People’s Department,’ and we will continue to move forward with a strong commitment to making improvements on behalf of all employees, attracting talent that represents the diversity of America, and putting people at the center of everything we do.” He says they’re working together to create an engaging environment and cultivate an exceptional workforce. *********************************************************************************** U.S. Potato Exports Hi $2.1 Billion in 2022 Potato exports reached a record $2.1 billion in sales in 2022. Compared to 2021, volume sales dropped 4.2 percent but were higher than in 2018 and 2020. The value of U.S. potato exports rose across all potato types, resulting in an 11 percent increase over the previous year. Global price hikes and inflation can be attributed to this growth. Demand for U.S. potatoes remained strong in 2022, showing that the slight drop in export volume resulted from tight supply. Over the year, the top export markets for U.S. potatoes were Mexico, Canada, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, in descending order. The value of U.S. frozen potato exports rose almost 14 percent, reaching $1.34 billion. However, volume dropped 2.5 percent compared to 2021. The top destinations for U.S. frozen potatoes were Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and the Philippines. Potatoes USA says despite inflation-driven price increases of U.S. products, global potato demand remained strong. *********************************************************************************** Iowa House Passes Bill Restricting Drone Surveillance of Livestock Facilities The Iowa House of Representatives passed a bill that restricts drone surveillance of livestock facilities without permission from the property owner. If House File 572 becomes law, remotely piloted aircraft couldn’t fly within 400 feet of homesteads or other areas where animals are kept. People caught in violation would face a simple misdemeanor for intruding on farm airspace. If the device happens to record images, sounds, or other data, that increases the penalty to a serious misdemeanor charge. Agriculture Dot Com says the bill comes in response to animal welfare organizations documenting the conditions and treatment of animals at Iowa’s livestock and dog-breeding facilities. Iowa’s legislators have repeatedly passed “ag-gag” laws to attempt to criminally penalize activists who record and publish images and videos of livestock facilities. Judges have ruled in the past that those laws are unconstitutional. Rep Derek Wulf says the bill “provides privacy rights for our farmers and ranchers.”

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 14, 2023 |

Friday Watch List Markets The U.S. Commerce Department will report on March retail sales at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday, followed by the Fed's report on March industrial production at 8:15 and a consumer sentiment index for April at 9 a.m. Traders will keep an eye on the latest weather forecasts and watch for a possible export sale announcement at 8 a.m. Weather A disturbance continues to move northeast out of the Gulf of Mexico, spreading showers through the Southeast on Friday. Behind it, another system is leaving the Rockies with increasing showers across the Plains and Upper Midwest. It remains very warm ahead of this system, with another day or two of good weather for fieldwork for some areas before a more active pattern starts back up.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 13, 2023 |

EPA’s Tailpipe Standards Overlook Ethanol’s Low-Carbon Benefits The Environmental Protection Agency released its proposed tailpipe emissions standards for 2027 and beyond. The Renewable Fuels Association says the agency blatantly tipped the scales in favor of electric battery vehicles. The EPA also overlooked a significant near-term opportunity to achieve significant vehicle efficiency improvements and carbon emissions reductions through increased use of high-octane, low-carbon ethanol fuel blends. “We strongly disagree with the policy approaches that arbitrarily pick technology winners and losers with no clear scientific basis,” says RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. RFA points out that a flex fuel vehicle running on E85 made from certain forms of ethanol would provide similar or even lower carbon emissions at a far lower cost. “Today’s EPA proposal would effectively force automakers to produce more electric battery vehicles and strongly discourage them from pursuing other technologies that could achieve the same or better environmental performance at a lower cost for families,” Cooper says. *********************************************************************************** Court Grants Request to Block Biden Administration’s WOTUS Rule in 24 States The U.S. District Court of North Dakota issued a preliminary injunction against the Biden administration from implementing its final rule redefining the Waters of the United States in 24 states. The court’s move comes in response to a motion filed by Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen. According to the Montana Farm Bureau Federation, estimates from the similar Obama-era rule would have placed nearly 90 percent of Montana’s land under the jurisdiction of the Environmental Protection Agency. “This injunction resulting from our lawsuit is welcome relief to farmers and ranchers and workers in mining, energy, and other industries who would be harmed if this unconstitutional rule is allowed to take effect,” Attorney General Knudsen says. “This is just the first step to stopping the overreaching WOTUS rule.” Knudsen also says he will continue to fight the Biden administration and prevent them from claiming federal jurisdiction over massive swaths of land and water. *********************************************************************************** China Is Now the World’s Largest Wheat Importer The USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service issued its “Grain: World Markets and Trade Report” and says China is now the biggest wheat importer in the world. The report says China’s wheat imports are forecast up to 12 million tons this year, the country’s highest level of imports since 1995-1996, when imports totaled 12.5 million tons. China’s domestic grain prices have remained high given the country’s minimum support price policy and reduced auction activity amidst uncertainty surrounding the government’s COVID policies. Chinese wheat prices have lingered around $450 per ton during the past year, while China’s corn prices averaged $400 per ton. FAS says competitive pricing has prompted China to import large volumes of both milling and feed-quality wheat. Australian wheat is especially competitive following three consecutive years of record crops. China continues to aggressively import Australian wheat supplies, with July through February wheat imports up 66 percent compared to the previous year. *********************************************************************************** Harvester Sales Continue Recent Gains Combine harvester sales in the U.S. and Canada continued growing while tractor unit sales stayed close to their five-year average. That’s according to new data from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Overall, U.S. ag tractor sales continued sliding in March despite gains in the four-wheel drive segments, which were up 106 percent. U.S. self-propelled combine sales grew 45 percent in March, keeping the year-to-date gains above 100 percent. All other tractor segments fell, with the sub-40 horsepower segment leading the losses in March by dropping 14.2 percent. Total U.S. farm tractor sales fell 12.1 percent compared to March 2022 and are down 15.1 percent this year. In Canada, combine harvester sales continue growing, up 190 percent for the month and almost 200 percent year to date. Total Canadian tractor sales finished March down 24 percent. “The March tractor and combine report is a mixed bag,” says Curt Blades of AEM. *********************************************************************************** NPB Hires First Chief Sustainability Officer The National Pork Board has hired James “Jamie” Burr as its first Chief Sustainability Officer. Burr brings over 20 years of experience to help the pork industry meet sustainability goals in his new role. “Jamie’s input has been invaluable to several key producer-funded initiatives for over a decade,” says Bill Even, National Pork Board CEO. “He’s served on and chaired several Pork Board environmental and sustainability committees and task forces, so his leadership has already helped shape the industry’s sustainability vision.” Even also says establishing a CSO position and adding Burr to the team continues to demonstrate the industry’s strong commitment to advancing pork sustainability. Burr comes to the NPB from Tyson Foods, where he recently served as director of environmental compliance and was the environmental lead for all of Tyson’s live-animal production businesses. Burr earned a Master’s Degree in Soil Science and a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy from Missouri State University. *********************************************************************************** Food Help on the Way to Arkansas After Tornadoes, Severe Storms Approximately 7,000 families in Cross and Pulaski Counties in Arkansas were hit hard by recent tornadoes and severe storms. They’ll soon get food packages containing nutritious, high-quality foods that are 100 percent grown and produced on farms in the U.S. The packages are known as USDA Foods. “In challenging times like this, USDA plays a critical role in supporting Americans, and none are more challenging than climate-related disasters that threaten lives, destroy communities, and disrupt food systems,” says Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Until their recovery is complete, we will continue to coordinate with our state, local, and federal partners to help get food and nutrition assistance to them when they need it most.” The Disaster Household Distribution program was approved to start on April 7. Arkansas officials will work directly with partners and local food banks to issue food boxes to participants located in affected areas. More information is available at fns.usda.gov.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 13, 2023 |

Thursday Watch List Markets USDA's weekly export sales report will be out at 7:30 a.m. CDT, the same time as weekly U.S. jobless claims, the producer price index for March and an update of the U.S. Drought Monitor. The U.S. Energy Department reports on natural gas in storage at 9:30 a.m. Traders will keep track of the latest weather developments, especially in the U.S. and Brazil. Weather A storm system moving north from the Gulf of Mexico is spreading showers into the Southeast on Thursday. Another system moving through the West will see showers increasing across the Plains as well. Some heavy snow will move through Montana while the snowpack farther east will continue melting. Warm and breezy conditions continue ahead of the storm system with another good day for fieldwork occurring for most areas.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 12, 2023 |

WOTUS Stopped in 26 States After Ruling - Federal Judge in North Dakota Issues Injunction in 24 States OMAHA (DTN) -- The waters of the U.S. rule is now on hold in 26 states after a federal judge in North Dakota issued a preliminary injunction on Wednesday in the 24 states that filed a lawsuit against the Biden administration. The U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota's ruling now prevents enforcement of the WOTUS rule in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming. Texas and Idaho previously received an injunction from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. The states along with several agriculture and other industry groups have argued in the lawsuit the latest WOTUS rule is a federal overreach and would exact serious costs to states and others to comply. In his opinion and order, Judge Daniel L. Hovland said he agreed. "The numerous declarations filed in this case by state officials outline in detail the specific costs of state compliance with the EPA's new 2023 rule, as well as the significant infringement on state sovereignty that confers standing on the named plaintiffs," Hovland said in the ruling. "The 2023 rule does cause injury to states because they are the direct object of its requirements. And the states are also landowners with direct obligations under the Clean Water Act. There is not a mere possibility the new regulations will impact the states -- it is a given. The irreparable harm to the states that occurs with the implementation of the new 2023 rule is clear and undisputed." Ag groups led by the American Farm Bureau Federation had asked the court to issue a national injunction against the rule, but the judge stopped short of that. The track the legal challenges to the new rule are taking is nearly identical to what occurred with the 2015 rule. At one point during the legal battles on the Obama-era rule, there was a near 50-50 split on where the rule was being enforced. AG REACTION The National Cattlemen's Beef Association, one of the ag groups intervening in the lawsuit in North Dakota, said the ruling was important. "Once again, the courts have affirmed that the Biden administration's WOTUS rule is overreaching and harmful to America's beef farmers and ranchers," NCBA President Todd Wilkinson said in a statement. "Cattle producers in 26 states now have some additional certainty while this rule is being litigated, and we are optimistic that the Supreme Court will provide nationwide clarity on the federal government's proper jurisdiction over water." Sometime this spring it is expected the Supreme Court will issue a ruling in Sackett v EPA. A ruling could determine how EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers make Clean Water Act determinations -- particularly when it comes to wetlands. Agriculture and other groups pressed the agencies to hold off issuing the new rule until after the Supreme Court delivers an opinion. Hovland criticized EPA for moving forward with a rule while the Supreme Court ruling was pending. "There is little public interest or any efficiency gained by implementing a new rule which codifies the 'significant nexus' test before the United States Supreme Court issues a decision in Sackett," Hovland said in the opinion. Hovland added, "Common sense dictates that it only makes sense to wait. There is no urgency to implement the 2023 rule. The Supreme Court's decision in Sackett will be issued by June 2023 and will likely address many of the unresolved legal issues and jurisdictional determinations at the heart of this lawsuit." Environmental groups and the federal agencies have tried to make the case that an injunction will lead to further environmental damage to water resources. The judge disagreed. "There is no legitimate concern that natural resources are threatened because all local lands and waters remain under the state's traditional protection," Hovland said in the opinion. "A delay allows for a full and final resolution on the merits and is in the best interests of the public. The court finds that a far broader segment of the public would benefit from a preliminary injunction because it would ensure that federal agencies do not extend their power beyond the express delegation from Congress."

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 12, 2023 |

USDA Releases April WASDE Report USDA’s latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Report offers few changes to the outlook for corn, soybeans and wheat. Released Tuesday, this month's 2022/23 U.S. corn outlook predicts reductions to imports and food, seed, and industrial use, with unchanged ending stocks. Corn imports are lowered ten million bushels based on observed trade to date. The season-average farm price was unchanged at $6.60 per bushel. The U.S. soybean supply and use forecasts for 2022/23 are unchanged relative to last month. Soybean and soybean meal prices are also unchanged. The soybean oil price is projected at 64.0 cents per pound, down two cents. This is the second-straight month USDA did not change the season-average soybean price per bushel, at $14.30. This month's outlook for 2022/23 U.S. wheat predicts slightly higher supplies, reduced domestic use, unchanged exports, and increased ending stocks. The 2022/23 season-average farm price is forecast $0.10 per bushel lower at $8.90. *********************************************************************************** West Coast Port Labor Disagreements Could Be Dangerous, Permanent The lack of a West Coast labor contract between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association could be dangerous and permanent. That's according to the Agriculture Transportation Coalition. Coalition Executive Director Peter Friedmann says, "Too many West Coast marine terminals are operating on reduced schedules, creating massive disruption." Shippers are moving cargo from the West Coast to ports on the East Coast. Friedmann says that could be a permanent move. West Coast ports are essential to the competitiveness of U.S. agricultural exporters. U.S. agriculture's largest international markets are in the Asia Pacific, and the most direct and fastest route is by truck or rail to the West Coast gateways. U.S. ag faces extremely competitive global sourcing competition, so it must be faster and less expensive than other exporters. Friedmann adds, "If the import cargo and the ships carrying it is trending to U.S. East Coast ports and away from the West Coast, exporters have fewer vessel sailings." *********************************************************************************** USDA Grant Funding Research to Reduce Beef Ghg Emissions The Department of Agriculture is investing $40 million this year for 31 projects through its Conservation Innovation Grants. One grant includes the Innovative Technologies to Reduce Beef Industry Ghg Emissions project led by Colorado State University. The investments emphasize adoption and implementation of climate-smart practices, including nutrient management, which helps producers manage nutrients and soil amendments to maximize their economic benefit while minimizing their environmental impact. NRCS Colorado State Conservationist Clint Evans says, “These investments move the needle in helping agricultural producers adopt and implement climate-smart practices, including nutrient management.” This year, NRCS is investing $25 million through On-Farm Trials, which supports adoption and evaluation of innovative conservation approaches. Incentive payments are provided to producers to offset the risk of implementing innovative approaches. Colorado State University received $1 million for the project to generate science-based estimates of CO2-equivalent emissions from the livestock grazing and finishing sectors using novel technologies and evaluate potential CO2e reductions from conservation practices. *********************************************************************************** USDA Seeking Applications to Expand Conservation Assistance to Underserved Producers The Department of Agriculture reminded farmers and ranchers this week the agency is seeking applications for projects that will improve outreach to underserved producers. Specifically, USDA wants to improve outreach about conservation programs and services and opportunities for students to pursue careers in agriculture, natural resources and related sciences. USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service is offering up to $70 million in cooperative agreements with entities for two-year projects encouraging participation in NRCS programs, especially in underserved communities and urban and small-scale producers. NRCS Chief Terry Cosby says, “The projects funded through this opportunity will better ensure these producers receive the benefits our conservation programs deliver.” The funding opportunity builds on NRCS’ fiscal year 2022 investment of $50 million in more than 100 partnerships to expand access to conservation assistance for climate-smart agriculture and forestry. The application deadline is April 27. Applications information and guidance is available online at grants.gov. *********************************************************************************** USDA Researchers Develop Natural, Washable Antimicrobial Cleaning Wipes Most antimicrobial wipes, predominantly made of synthetic fibers like polyester and polypropylene, are discarded after a single use and end up in landfills. However, USDA Agricultural Research Service scientists recently developed sustainable, machine-washable antimicrobial wipes that can be used at least 30 times for cleaning hard and nonporous surfaces. ARS researchers developed antimicrobial wipes by using raw cotton fiber that naturally produced silver nanoparticles inside the fiber. These embedded nanoparticles can then release ions that act as antibacterial agents and kill harmful bacteria. The researchers say people will be able to clean surfaces by wetting the antimicrobial cloths with tap water and then wiping surfaces. In their research, scientists found that the wipes killed 99.9 percent of harmful bacteria on surfaces. The worldwide antimicrobial wipes market is estimated to reach $21.6 billion by 2030, According to the Antimicrobial Wipes Market Outlook report. *********************************************************************************** Alltech Feed Division Announces New Leadership Roles Alltech Tuesday announced new leadership roles within the Alltech feed division. Scot Harold will assume commercial leadership as executive vice president, Feed & Premix, and Brian Gier joins the company as vice president of sales for Hubbard Feeds. Alltech COO Mike Castle says, “Scot and Brian will bring leadership and experience that will enable us to capitalize on opportunities within our feed business.” Harold joined Alltech in 2020 as the director of sales for Ridley Feed Ingredients, part of the Alltech feed division. He will work with the leadership team to develop and implement strategy for growth of the feed business while strengthening alignment across the feed, premix and specialty ingredients teams. Before joining Alltech, Harold served as Cargill Animal Nutrition's national sales leader for both the Dealer & Multi-Store Ag Retailer segments. Alltech welcomes Gier to the team from Purina Mills, where he served as vice president of sales.

| Rural Advocate News | Wednesday April 12, 2023 |

Wednesday Watch List Markets The U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index for March is due out at 7:30 a.m. CDT Wednesday, followed by the Energy Department's weekly report of energy inventories, including ethanol production at 9:30 a.m. At 1 p.m., the Federal Reserve will have minutes from the latest FOMC meeting and the U.S. Treasury will report on the federal budget for March. Weather A pair of systems are entrenching on the country Wednesday. One over the Gulf of Mexico will start to bring showers northward into the coast for the next couple of days. Another is moving into the West and Canadian Prairies where showers will expand into the Northern Plains. That includes some snow in spots. Breezy winds across the Plains and Midwest are a risk for spreading wildfires, though the warmth continues to be a boon for fieldwork and early planting. The snowpack across the north has taken a major hit and flooding is starting up.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 11, 2023 |

World Food Price Index Continues Decline The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Food Price Index averaged 126.9 points in March 2023, down 2.8 points or 2.1 percent from February. The average marks the twelfth consecutive monthly decline since reaching its peak one year ago. During the past twelve months since March 2022, the index has declined 20.5 percent. The Cereal Price Index averaged 138.6 points in March, down 5.6 percent from February and 18 percent below its one year ago. The Vegetable Oil Price Index averaged 131.8 points in March, down three percent from February and 47.7 percent below its level a year ago. The Dairy Price Index averaged 130.3 points in March, down 1.1 points from February and 10.7 percent lower for the year. The Meat Price Index averaged 113.0 points, up slightly in March, but 5.3 percent lower than a year ago. Finally, the Sugar Price Index averaged 127.0 points in March, up 1.5 percent from February, the second consecutive monthly increase, reaching its highest level since October 2016. *********************************************************************************** Coalition Asks Lawmakers to Fund Export Promotion Programs The Coalition to Promote U.S. Agricultural Exports urges congressional appropriators to continue mandatory funding for Market Access and Foreign Market Development programs. The Coalition also asked the Senate agriculture committee to include a provision that would double the dollars for those programs in the next Farm Bill. In letters sent to the chairs and ranking members of the Senate and House agriculture appropriations subcommittees, the Coalition asked that the MAP get at least $200 million and FMD receive a minimum of $34.5 million in fiscal 2024. The Coalition also called on House and Senate Agriculture Committee leaders to include the Expanding Agricultural Exports Act of 2023 in the 2023 farm bill. The legislation would double the annual funding for MAP and FMD over the five years of the new Farm Bill. The Coalition says the outlook for agricultural trade is "uncertain due to continuing supply chain disruptions, surging international competition and the absence of new, near-term trade agreements." The group includes more than 120 agricultural organizations. *********************************************************************************** Academics Predict USMCA Dispute Panel Would Favor U.S. over Mexico Ag economists at The Ohio State University predict a U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement dispute settlement panel over biotech corn would rule in favor of the United States. The U.S. Trade Representative's Office recently requested technical consultations with Mexico under the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures Chapter of USMCA. The dispute has its origins in a decree issued by Mexico calling for GM corn for human consumption to be phased out by the end of January 2024. Given Mexico is the second-largest export market for U.S. corn totaling $4.792 billion in 2022, the original decree ratcheted up trade tensions between the two countries. Following U.S. pressure, Mexico scrapped the 2024 deadline banning GM corn for animal feed and industrial use on February 13, 2023, while retaining the ban on its use for human consumption. The experts say that “if a panel investigation goes ahead, “our expectation is that it will rule in favor of the United States.” *********************************************************************************** Beginning Farm Operations Tend to be in the South and West Beginning farms tend to be more concentrated in Southern and Western States than in other areas of the United States, according to USDA's Economic Research Service. Data published Monday by ERS shows that in some counties in California and Texas, the proportion of beginning farms is more than one-third of the total farms. As of 2017, there were about 340,000 farms—with almost 900,000 operators—on which all operators were beginning farmers with ten or fewer years of farm management experience. Most beginning farms are small-scale operations, about 67 percent of beginning farms produce less than $10,000 worth of output. Less than two percent of beginning farms achieve an annual production value of more than $1 million. Among farms with at least $10,000 in production, principal operators of beginning farms were 43 years old on average. In contrast, the age of operators of established farms averaged 63 years old. USDA offers numerous resources for beginning farmers. *********************************************************************************** Missouri River Runoff Forecast Improves The latest 2023 calendar year runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City, Iowa, is showing improvement. Spring precipitation, including increased mountain snowpack and late-season plains snow, has provided improved runoff conditions. The 2023 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 26.4 million acre-feet, 103 percent of average. The runoff forecast is based on current soil moisture conditions, plains snowpack, mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks. March runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 1.7 million acre-feet, 57 percent of average. System storage is currently 46.8 million acre-feet, 9.3 million below the top of the carryover multiple-use zone. Beginning in mid-March, releases from Gavins Point Dam were adjusted to provide flow support for Missouri River navigation. Navigation flow support for the Missouri River is at minimum service for the first half of the 2023 season, which began April 1 at the mouth of the river near St. Louis, Missouri. *********************************************************************************** Gas Prices Inch Higher, Diesel Lower For the second straight week, the nation's average price of gasoline has increased, up 8.8 cents from a week ago to $3.57 per gallon. The national average is up 13.0 cents from a month ago but 52.6 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average diesel price fell 1.6 cents last week and stands at $4.15 per gallon, 88.9 cents lower than one year ago. GasBuddy's Patrick De Haan says, “Expect the upward trend to continue through much of the rest of spring.” However, once the transition to summer gasoline is complete, prices may slump in June. Over the last few weeks, the price of West Texas Intermediate crude rallied by over 20 percent from a low of $65 per barrel to back over $80 last week after OPEC+’s surprise decision to piece together a 1.15 million barrel per day production cut, and as the banking crisis has eased.

| Rural Advocate News | Tuesday April 11, 2023 |

Tuesday Watch List Markets USDA's WASDE report for April is due out at 11 a.m. CDT on Tuesday, followed by DTN's webinar at 12:30 p.m. Traders will keep up with the latest weather forecasts and any planting anecdotes in the U.S. The market will also pause at 8 a.m., in case USDA has an export sale announcement. Weather A ridge of high pressure continues to dominate most of the U.S. on Tuesday, leading to generally dry and warm conditions. A system moving through the Pacific Northwest and Canadian Prairies is bringing some showers, however. Winds will be a bit breezy in the Plains, but another day of warmth and sunshine should be beneficial for getting out into the fields in a lot of areas, as well as melting the northern snowpack.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 10, 2023 |

Top 5 Things to Watch - WASDE, Warm Weather and Road Warriors OMAHA (DTN) -- Here are the Top 5 things the DTN Newsroom is tracking for the week of April 16. Watch for coverage of these and other topics through the week on our subscription platforms as well as on DTNPF.com. 1. April WASDE: April 11 is the next World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report. DTN Lead Analyst Todd Hultman will post his expectations for the report on April 10. We'll have coverage just after 11 a.m. CDT, as quick as those little electrons can get to your computer, satellite unit and mobile devices. You'll see updated commentary on the report through the 11:00 hour. 2. Change in weather pattern: Troughs, and the clashing storms they create, stay away. Milder conditions are in, at least through most of this week. That may help coax some planters and tillage equipment out of the shed, but it also means the beginning of the Big Melt in the Northern Plains. We'll continue to be on flood watch as the week progresses, and as the potential for rain comes back in the following week. 3. Lively livestock markets: The past week saw significant cash sales around the country, with the dollars to keep the sale rings going. We'll continue to track this hot market. 4. Be safe out there: The first rush of spring always brings the chance of roadway conflicts as the nonfarm world remembers what those big pieces of equipment with orange and red triangle signs are all about. The closing rate between 60 mph and 17 mph is, well, faster than you think. Be watchful, no matter which end of that speed scale you're on. 5. Speaking of safety: One of the nastiest days you can have is standing over or next to an anhydrous ammonia connection that fails. If you're a "gasser," remember: Gloves, goggles, rinse water. And doublecheck those hoses before you crack the valve.

| Rural Advocate News | Monday April 10, 2023 |

Monday Watch List Markets Back from Easter weekend, traders will check the latest weather forecasts and pause at 8 a.m. CDT, in case an export sale is announced. DTN's WASDE preview will be out Monday morning. USDA will have its weekly report of export inspections at 10 a.m., followed by the second Crop Progress report of 2023 at 3 p.m. Weather A very small disturbance may bring some showers to the Plains Monday, while a small system moves through the Pacific Northwest and Canadian Prairies. But most of the county will be rather quiet with rising temperatures. Over the deep snowpack in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies, this will likely lead to snowmelt and some areas of flooding.

| Rural Advocate News | Friday April 7, 2023 |

Ford Keeping AM Radios in Commercial Vehicles A new report says Ford will keep AM radios in certain vehicles. The company plans to exclude AM radio from “most new and updated vehicles we bring to market” but also says commercial vehicles will continue to have AM radios. A Ford Authority report says, “This group of vehicles will likely consist of vehicles that count toward Ford Pro sales – the automaker’s commercial-focused division.” The report also says it’s not, by any means, a given because Ford could ditch the feature in some or all of those vehicles as well. So far, a total of eight automakers say they will remove AM radio from the dashboards of some of their models, mostly in the fast-growing electric vehicle segment. In a series of letters, none of the eight are signaling any second thoughts despite the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s push about the critical role AM plays in delivering public safety information. *********************************************************************************** Asia and Africa are the Future of Trade The best opportunities for increasing agricultural trade in the years ahead will take place in Southeast Asia and Africa. The Hagstrom Report says Foreign Agricultural Service Administrator Daniel Whitley made that observation during a recent speech before the American Association of Port Authorities. “Southeast Asia is the fastest-growing market for America’s products,” Whitley says. “People are moving from low-income to middle-income consumers who eat more fruits and vegetables and patronize restaurants and high-end grocery stores.” He also says Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Singapore already have a “fixation” with the U.S. brand. Whitley says Africa is “visibly shifting before our eyes.” Africa is going from being development recipients to commercial customers. “We need to be in a business relationship and not a developmental relationship with African countries,” he says. “While African countries have traditional ties with the EU, they also want to break some of those ties.” *********************************************************************************** Sorghum Yield Contest is Now Open National Sorghum Producers will now begin accepting entries for the 2023 National Sorghum Yield Contest. State and national winners get selected from contestants split into east and west regions for each division, which includes irrigated, dryland no-till, dryland tillage, and one overall winner for food grade. The entry deadline for the contest is November 15. A complete field of 10 or more continuous acres, planted in the sorghum seed variety named on the entry form, will be designated as the contest field. The contestants must harvest and report at least 1.5 contiguous acres. “The competition motivates farmers and seed companies to explore innovative genetics and techniques for enhancing sorghum yields,” says NSP CEO Tim Lust. “Despite the drought of 2022, we saw excellent top-end yields in the contest from growers nationwide.” To find the entry form, 2023 yield contest rules, and more information, interested sorghum producers can go to sorghumgrowers.com. *********************************************************************************** CHS Reports Second-Quarter Earnings CHS, Inc., released its second-quarter earnings results of $292.3 million in net income compared to $219 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2022. The second quarter ended on February 28. For the first six months of fiscal year 2023, the company reported net income of $1.1 billion and revenues of $24.1 billion. That compares to net income of $671 million and $21.2 billion in revenues during the first half of fiscal year 2022. The report also says decreased prices for agronomy products and ethanol contributed to lower earnings in the company’s agriculture segment. “Strong global demand for commodities and improved market conditions for refined fuels led to increased earnings for the quarter as well as the first half of the fiscal year,” says Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS. “The strength of our diversified portfolio offset margin pressures experienced in our ag segment, particularly wholesale and retail agronomy products.” *********************************************************************************** No mRNA Vaccines in U.S. Cattle Social media has been sharing information that mRNA vaccines are getting used in raising the U.S. cattle herd. A National Cattlemen’s Beef Association statement says there are no current mRNA vaccines licensed for use in beef cattle in the United States. “Cattle farmers and ranchers do vaccinate cattle to treat and prevent many diseases,” the statement says, “but presently, none of these vaccines include mRNA technology.” Texas agriculture commissioner Sid Miller says his department has been working towards a fact and science-based assessment of the risks associated with this technology. “Our analysis will include the clinical research and the public policy, economic, and production impact of the different policy prescriptions we may adopt,” Miller says. “It’s a serious issue we are looking into here at TDA.” A January 12 article on the website Truth Press said if Americans consumed meat from a vaccinated animal, the mRNA vaccines then entered their bodies. *********************************************************************************** Hereford Association Growing Young Leaders Twenty-one National Junior Hereford Association members were selected to accompany the NJHA Board of Directors at the second Building on Leadership Development Conference in Texas. The board created the BOLD conferences for college-aged junior Hereford members seeking opportunities to expand their leadership skills. BOLD is geared toward college and career-focused junior members. It provides them with a personalized learning experience focused on improving their leadership, providing career opportunities, and cultivating life-long relationships. “From the moment I got there, I was laughing and having fun with my peers,” said Lauren Jones, a BOLD conference attendee. “But I was also challenged to think of what I want my future to look like and how to achieve it.” BOLD is an annual leadership opportunity and is scheduled for April 4-7, 2024. Junior members ages 14-22 looking to expand their leadership skills are invited to attend the 2023 Faces of Leadership Conference scheduled for July.

| Rural Advocate News | Thursday April 6, 2023 |

Farmers Seek Comprehensive Reform to Federal Milk Pricing The American Farm Bureau Federation told Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Wednesday that requests to increase make allowances fall short of fairly supporting dairy farmers. Make allowances are used in part to calculate how much a processor pays for milk. Dairy farmers, on average, lose $6.72 per hundredweight of milk produced, according to USDA data. The loss for dairy farms with less than 50 cows was even greater at $21.58 per hundredweight. Two dairy processor associations requested a federal milk marketing order hearing to increase make allowances. While AFBF is not opposed to updating make allowances, the proposals to USDA do not address the wider need for changes to milk pricing regulations, according to AFBF President Zippy Duvall. In a letter to Vilsack, Duvall says, "The petitions we oppose here threaten to undercut trust between farmers who produce the milk and the processors who turn it into the dairy products we all know and love." *********************************************************************************** Boozman, Thune Lead Effort to Permanently Repeal Death Tax Republican Senators John Boozman, John Thune and Mitch McConnell are leading an effort to permanently repeal the death tax. The Death Tax Repeal Act would permanently repeal the federal estate tax, more commonly known as the death tax. Senator Boozman says, “The Death Tax hangs over too many family agriculture operations and small businesses as a potential destroyer of generations worth of work and investment.” Senator Thune adds, “I will continue to do everything in my power to remove these roadblocks for family businesses and repeal the death tax once and for all.” The legislation also has backing from a majority of Senate Republicans and is supported by more than 150 members of the Family Business Coalition and 111 members of the Family Business Estate Tax Coalition, which includes the American Farm Bureau Federation. Senate Majority Leader McConnell concludes, “Washington Democrats need to recognize the economic damage they’ve inflicted and join Republicans in ending this harmful tax.” *********************************************************************************** RFA Calls on Biden Administration to Allow E15 This Summer The Renewable Fuels Association kicked off an advertising campaign this week urging for quick action by the White House to allow summer availability of E15. The campaign comes as the summer driving season is less than two months away, and fuel prices are again rising. The campaign targets ethanol supporters across the Midwest, as well as policymakers and insiders in Washington, D.C. RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper says, "Our message to the Biden administration is simple: Unless the White House acts quickly, American drivers will lose access to the lowest-cost, lowest-carbon fuel at the pump on June 1." Cooper pointed out that a Morning Consult poll conducted late last month found strong voter support for year-round E15 sales. 70 percent of poll respondents support increasing the availability of E15 to help lower fuel prices and support energy independence, while 62 percent support recently introduced bipartisan legislation allowing the lower-carbon E15 blend to be sold year-round nationwide. *********************************************************************************** Application Rates of Manure as a Nutrient Source Vary by Crop Data from USDA’s Economic Research Service shows the use of manure as a nutrient varies by type of crop. Between 2013 and 2019, producers of seven major crops in the U.S. who used manure were asked how much manure they applied per acre, allowing ERS to estimate crop nutrient application rates. Corn received the highest application rate of nitrogen from a manure source—92 pounds per acre—followed by cotton, wheat, barley, oats, soybeans, and peanuts. Cotton led phosphorus application at 37 pounds per acre, and corn led potassium application at 59 pounds per acre. Soybeans and peanuts require less nitrogen fertilization, and they were applied with the lowest manure nitrogen application rates. Manure applied to soybeans and peanuts is valued primarily for its phosphorus and potassium. In 2020, manure was applied to about eight percent of the 240.9 million acres planted to seven major U.S. field crops. *********************************************************************************** Bayer Investing $65 Million in Ukraine Seed Production Site Bayer announced a $65 million investment in its corn seed production facility in Ukraine, as part of its commitment to Ukraine. The investment includes a new seed dryer, state-of-the-art agricultural field equipment, storage facilities and the construction of two bomb shelters to ensure safety. Matthias Berninger of Bayer says, “Bayer has been active in Ukraine for many years and is committed to the country, its people and farming communities.” Before the war, the company made a significant investment to establish corn seed production through a network of skilled Ukrainian farmers and the greenfield seed processing site. The plant was inaugurated in 2018 and operates with around 100 on-site employees and about 250 to 300 seasonal workers. Bayer, with its plant, is one of the biggest investors in the region. This included the donation of more than 40,000 bags of corn and vegetable seeds as well as healthcare product donations. *********************************************************************************** USDA Funding to Support Food Security in Alaska, Hawaii, US Territories The Department of Agriculture Wednesday announced $7.6 million in funding to improve food security in Alaska, Hawaii and U.S. Territories. The funding seeks to increase the quantity and quality of locally grown food through small-scale gardening, herding, and livestock operations in food-insecure communities. USDA announced the funding as part of its Micro-Grants for Food Security Program. This year, the program received an additional $3 million through the Consolidated Appr