Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA's Farm Service Agency will offer certain producers the opportunity to modify and extend their Conservation Reserve Program contracts that are scheduled to expire on Sept. 30, 2009. USDA can only extend approximately 1.5 million acres out of a total 3.9 million acres expiring this year. This extension will ensure that FSA meets the statutory CRP acreage limitation of 32-million acres established in the Food, Conservation, and Energy Act of 2008.
FSA will notify participants by letter beginning Wednesday. The sign-up for this voluntary extension will begin on May 18 and run through June 30, 2009. Farmers and ranchers may apply for this extension at their FSA county office.
A general CRP signup is not scheduled during fiscal year 2009. However, producers may continue to enroll relatively small, highly-desirable acreages, including land that is not extended, into Continuous CRP. Continuous CRP includes such practices as filter strips and riparian buffers.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
National Animal ID Listening Sessions Set
Sites in Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Texas and Washington State will host USDA listening sessions on the National Animal identification System. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said, during the sessions, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service will seeks to gather not only producer comments and concerns, but also potential or feasible solutions to create program producers can feel comfortable supporting.
The listening sessions will include information about the current program, as well as an opportunity to give public testimony or ask program-related questions. Discussion sessions related to NAIS' cost, impact on small farmers, privacy and confidentiality, liability premises registration, animal identification and animal tracing will allow producers to provide their input on ways to make the program into something they can support.
The public listening sessions will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time, with registration one hour prior to each meeting. The Schedule is:
Thursday, May 14: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania,
Monday, May 18: Pasco, Washington,
Wednesday, May 20: Austin, Texas
Thursday, May 21: Birmingham, Alabama,
Friday, May 22: Louisville, Kentucky,
Wednesday, May 27: Storrs, Connecticut, and
Monday, June 1: Greeley, Colorado.
The listening sessions will include information about the current program, as well as an opportunity to give public testimony or ask program-related questions. Discussion sessions related to NAIS' cost, impact on small farmers, privacy and confidentiality, liability premises registration, animal identification and animal tracing will allow producers to provide their input on ways to make the program into something they can support.
The public listening sessions will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time, with registration one hour prior to each meeting. The Schedule is:
Thursday, May 14: Harrisburg, Pennsylvania,
Monday, May 18: Pasco, Washington,
Wednesday, May 20: Austin, Texas
Thursday, May 21: Birmingham, Alabama,
Friday, May 22: Louisville, Kentucky,
Wednesday, May 27: Storrs, Connecticut, and
Monday, June 1: Greeley, Colorado.
Farm Service Issues Failed Wheat Crop Directive
Farm Service Agency offices across the nation have received guidance on how to handle producer claims of a failed wheat crop under the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Program. The guidance goes something like this. The producer obtained crop insurance for his wheat crop. It failed and the deadline for NAP coverage on a second crop has passed. In almost all cases, it appears USDA will grant a release on those wheat acres, allow the farmer to pay a $250 fee and have that second crop come under the umbrella of the SURE program if it becomes relevant at the end of the crop year.
H1N1 Another Name and a Plea
The H1N1 influenza virus has yet another name. The World Health Organization has named the virus - Influenza A, - and the World Organization for Animal Health said the H1N1 influenza should never have been named – swine flu. The OIE added - there is no justification for the imposition of trade measures on the importation of pigs or their products. Officials at USDA, the CDC, and DHS agree, - the virus is not in the U.S. hog herd and there are no food safety issues.
The National Pork Producers Council says it expects the restrictions placed on U.S. pork exports by certain nations due to concerns about the H1N1 virus to be temporary. NPPC Vice President and International Trade Counsel Nick Giordano says - the H1N1 virus is transmitted through human contact and that pork is 100 percent safe to consume. He said, - it is imperative that our trade officials stop the export bleeding now.
While the current export restrictions are manageable, Giordano pointed out, it will be difficult to withstand the loss of further markets. Despite those facts, Ukraine, St. Lucia, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, Thailand, Honduras and Croatia have banned U.S. pork imports. Russia and China, which are significant markets for U.S. pork exports, and Kazakhstan, have banned U.S. pork from certain states.
The National Pork Producers Council says it expects the restrictions placed on U.S. pork exports by certain nations due to concerns about the H1N1 virus to be temporary. NPPC Vice President and International Trade Counsel Nick Giordano says - the H1N1 virus is transmitted through human contact and that pork is 100 percent safe to consume. He said, - it is imperative that our trade officials stop the export bleeding now.
While the current export restrictions are manageable, Giordano pointed out, it will be difficult to withstand the loss of further markets. Despite those facts, Ukraine, St. Lucia, Indonesia, United Arab Emirates, Thailand, Honduras and Croatia have banned U.S. pork imports. Russia and China, which are significant markets for U.S. pork exports, and Kazakhstan, have banned U.S. pork from certain states.
Hormone Free U.S. Beef to EU?
The European Union’s blockade of U.S. beef, in place for about the last 20 years, is showing signs of weakening. Members of the European Union have expressed interest in accepting larger quotas of beef not produced with hormone implants. In exchange the US would drop tariffs that were allowed under a previous WTO ruling against the trading bloc.
NCBA’s Gregg Doud says, maybe, we are getting closer to making a deal. What has turned things around is the fact that the EU is a major beef importer. And the United States beef industry would like to have a piece of the action. Even if it is hormone free beef.
Doud expects that if a deal is accomplished, a substantial amount of U.S. hormone free beef could be headed into the European Union. But first, Doud says, we need to gain access.
NCBA’s Gregg Doud says, maybe, we are getting closer to making a deal. What has turned things around is the fact that the EU is a major beef importer. And the United States beef industry would like to have a piece of the action. Even if it is hormone free beef.
Doud expects that if a deal is accomplished, a substantial amount of U.S. hormone free beef could be headed into the European Union. But first, Doud says, we need to gain access.
Lamy Sets Stage for Next Four Years
Director-General Pascal Lamy has presented to the WTO General Council his vision for WTO for the next four years. He said, - the reinforcement of the multilateral trading system, in particular through the conclusion of the Doha Round, should be our guiding light. In the constellation of global governance, Lamy says, - let’s work together to see the WTO star shining ever brighter. His presentation was made in the context of the Director-General appointment process.
Lamy pointed out four areas which the WTO should work to improve. These four areas are: negotiations; implementation; coherence; and outreach. As for the present H1N1 Virus outbreak, Lamy said, the WTO - should continue to improve its capacity to rapidly react to global challenges, as we are seeing in the current crisis, and contribute to devising solutions to those challenges.
Lamy pointed out four areas which the WTO should work to improve. These four areas are: negotiations; implementation; coherence; and outreach. As for the present H1N1 Virus outbreak, Lamy said, the WTO - should continue to improve its capacity to rapidly react to global challenges, as we are seeing in the current crisis, and contribute to devising solutions to those challenges.
Results of How Farmers Are Viewed Released
Results of a survey, called the 2009 National Agricultural Image Survey have been released. The survey was conducted with funding from the United Soybean Board and soybean checkoff. The results provide insights into seven main issues, including: the image of U.S. poultry and livestock producers; a farmer attribute analysis; and consumer attitudes on confinement, food prices, confinement legislation, biobased products and biodiesel.
Some of the key findings from the study include:
Individuals who are somewhat or very favorable toward U.S. poultry and livestock producers rose from 69 percent in 2008 to 78 percent in 2009.
Top positive farmer attributes among consumers are that farm families know about protecting air and water quality and that most farmers take good care of their animals.
Nearly 90 percent of consumers do not see farmers as a major reason for increases in food prices.
Most consumers agree that it's important to subsidize farmers to ensure a safe food supply.
After hearing that anti-confinement legislation could force Americans to get their milk, eggs and meat from foreign producers, 78 percent of consumers are against the legislation. And,
Consumers see energy security as the most important benefit of biobased products.
Some of the key findings from the study include:
Individuals who are somewhat or very favorable toward U.S. poultry and livestock producers rose from 69 percent in 2008 to 78 percent in 2009.
Top positive farmer attributes among consumers are that farm families know about protecting air and water quality and that most farmers take good care of their animals.
Nearly 90 percent of consumers do not see farmers as a major reason for increases in food prices.
Most consumers agree that it's important to subsidize farmers to ensure a safe food supply.
After hearing that anti-confinement legislation could force Americans to get their milk, eggs and meat from foreign producers, 78 percent of consumers are against the legislation. And,
Consumers see energy security as the most important benefit of biobased products.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Weedy Advantage
New research shows that two key causes of plant invasion act in concert. They are escape from natural enemies and increases in plant resources. This study shows that fast-growing, weedy exotic species have a double advantage in today's world. Increases in resources enable them to out compete slow-growing plants. An escape from an unusually large number of enemies enables them to out compete even fast-growing native plants.
The research also found that global change is likely to exacerbate invasion by exotic plants. As global change proceeds, continuing increases in resource availability are likely to exacerbate such plant invasions.
Fast-growing weedy species thrive in environments with ample plant resources. And global change increases key plant resources, such as carbon dioxide and soil nitrogen, through increases in the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, respectively.
The research also found that global change is likely to exacerbate invasion by exotic plants. As global change proceeds, continuing increases in resource availability are likely to exacerbate such plant invasions.
Fast-growing weedy species thrive in environments with ample plant resources. And global change increases key plant resources, such as carbon dioxide and soil nitrogen, through increases in the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide, respectively.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Egypt Slaughtering Hog Population
Egypt has started the task of slaughtering its pig herds. The action is seen as a precaution against the H1N1 virus, even though no cases have been reported in that country. The government’s action is infuriating farmers. At the minimum they want compensation for their losses. Others are fighting back. North of Cairo, farmers refused to cooperate with Health Ministry workers who came to slaughter their animals. The workers left without completing their tasks.
Most farmers in that region of the world are poor and will find it difficult to survive the pig slaughter. Only about 10 percent of Egyptians raise pigs. They are the Christian minority. Health Ministry spokesman Abdel-Rahman Shaheen estimates that there are between 300-thousand and 350-thousand pigs in Egypt.
The decision to slaughter Egypt’s hog population was announced after President Hosni Mubarack met with his cabinet. The slaughtering will use the full capacity of Egypt’s slaughterhouses.
Most farmers in that region of the world are poor and will find it difficult to survive the pig slaughter. Only about 10 percent of Egyptians raise pigs. They are the Christian minority. Health Ministry spokesman Abdel-Rahman Shaheen estimates that there are between 300-thousand and 350-thousand pigs in Egypt.
The decision to slaughter Egypt’s hog population was announced after President Hosni Mubarack met with his cabinet. The slaughtering will use the full capacity of Egypt’s slaughterhouses.
NFU Favors Cap and Trade System
Farmers Union President Roger Johnson represented his organization Wednesday in testimony before the House Committee on Small Business. Johnson says - NFU believes the flexibility of a cap and trade program holds the most promise in making actual greenhouse gas emissions reductions while mitigating the overall energy cost increases that would result from such a program. NFU policy supports a national, mandatory carbon emission cap and trade system, with an optional agricultural offset program, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Johnson said the voluntary Farmers Union Carbon Credit Program has taught NFU valuable lessons on how to properly construct a cap and trade program. He said the program demonstrates the commitment America's farmers and ranchers have to protecting the environment.
Currently, NFU is the largest aggregator of agriculture carbon credits on the Chicago Climate Exchange. The program has more than five million acres enrolled across 31 states and nearly 9.5-million dollars has been earned for the almost 4-thousand producers participating.
Johnson said the voluntary Farmers Union Carbon Credit Program has taught NFU valuable lessons on how to properly construct a cap and trade program. He said the program demonstrates the commitment America's farmers and ranchers have to protecting the environment.
Currently, NFU is the largest aggregator of agriculture carbon credits on the Chicago Climate Exchange. The program has more than five million acres enrolled across 31 states and nearly 9.5-million dollars has been earned for the almost 4-thousand producers participating.
NCGA Supports Cap and Trade
National Corn Growers Association Past President and Climate Change Task Force member Fred Yoder said agriculture can play a positive role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Yoder pointed out that - greenhouse gas reductions from livestock and agricultural conservation practices are the easiest and most readily available means of reducing greenhouse gas on a large scale. He told the House Committee on Small business, - the Environmental Protection Agency estimates that agricultural and forestry lands can sequester at least 20 percent of all annual greenhouse gas emissions in the United States.
Yoder outlined several of NCGA’s key policy priorities under a cap-and-trade system and stressed that agriculture should not be subject to an emissions cap. He said, - any efforts to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from America’s two million farms and ranches would be costly and burdensome. Agriculture accounts for about seven percent of all greenhouse gas emissions. Yoder said, - it would seem unreasonable to concentrate on regulations for such a small and diffuse industry.
Yoder outlined several of NCGA’s key policy priorities under a cap-and-trade system and stressed that agriculture should not be subject to an emissions cap. He said, - any efforts to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from America’s two million farms and ranches would be costly and burdensome. Agriculture accounts for about seven percent of all greenhouse gas emissions. Yoder said, - it would seem unreasonable to concentrate on regulations for such a small and diffuse industry.
Subcommittee Investigates Civil Rights at USDA
The House Agriculture Subcommittee on Department Operations, Oversight, Nutrition, and Forestry Wednesday held a hearing to review the USDA’s Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights. Chairman Joe Baca said - after decades of unsuccessful attempts to establish and enforce equitable civil rights policies within USDA, I am pleased with the initial commitment of the Obama administration and Secretary Vilsack to right this situation. Baca says he is hopeful wounds will begin to heal and we will begin to see equal opportunity of success for all farmers and producers.
The oversight hearing focused on USDA's handling of civil rights violations and the findings of a GAO report released in October 2008 entitled - Recommendations and Options to Address Management Deficiencies in the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights. The Subcommittee heard testimony from the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights and the author of the recent GAO report.
The oversight hearing focused on USDA's handling of civil rights violations and the findings of a GAO report released in October 2008 entitled - Recommendations and Options to Address Management Deficiencies in the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights. The Subcommittee heard testimony from the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights and the author of the recent GAO report.
Farm Bureau Supports Raising Blend Wall
The American Farm Bureau Federation says the federal government should increase the ethanol blend level to 15 percent, which will promote environmental protection, help create jobs and reduce dependence on foreign oil. In a letter sent to EPA administrator Lisa Jackson, the farm organization said - increasing the ethanol blend level to 15 percent from the current level of 10 percent is critical to the sustained health and expansion of corn and cellulosic ethanol production in the United States.
In its response to a request for public comments on a proposed waiver of the Clean Ari Act, Farm Bureau President Bob Stallman wrote - increasing our use of domestically produced biofuels is key to helping improve our nation’s energy security. Stallman continued, - if recent events have taught us anything it is that our nation should develop energy resources right here at home.
Farm Bureau believes increasing the blend ethanol level shows our nation’s commitment to renewable fuels as we work to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.
In its response to a request for public comments on a proposed waiver of the Clean Ari Act, Farm Bureau President Bob Stallman wrote - increasing our use of domestically produced biofuels is key to helping improve our nation’s energy security. Stallman continued, - if recent events have taught us anything it is that our nation should develop energy resources right here at home.
Farm Bureau believes increasing the blend ethanol level shows our nation’s commitment to renewable fuels as we work to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.
Grants for Improving Rural Businesses Available
USDA is accepting applications for grants for cooperative development centers to improve economic conditions in rural areas. Grants of up to 200-thousand dollars may be awarded to colleges, universities and non-profit groups to create and operate centers that help individuals or groups establish, expand or operate rural businesses, especially cooperatives. The grants are being provided through USDA Rural Development's Rural Cooperative Development Grant program.
USDA may award up to 4.4-million dollars in grants through this notice. Grants may finance up to 75 percent of the cost of establishing and operating the cooperative centers. Recipients must match 25 percent of the total project cost. Applications are due by the close of business June 29, 2009.
USDA may award up to 4.4-million dollars in grants through this notice. Grants may finance up to 75 percent of the cost of establishing and operating the cooperative centers. Recipients must match 25 percent of the total project cost. Applications are due by the close of business June 29, 2009.
Senate Influenza Hearing Opens
The outbreak of North American Influenza has centered in Mexico but there have been 47 confirmed cases in five U.S. states and additional possible cases are being analyzed. Many are already calling this a flu pandemic because this is a virus for which people have little or no immunity and for which there is no vaccine. And it is capable of human-to-human transmission.
In opening a Senate committee hearing on the flu situation, Iowa senator Tom Harkin said - the current swine flu virus is, obviously, a different virus. Like H5N1, it is one for which people have little or no immunity and for which there is no vaccine. However, unlike H5N1, this H1N1 flu virus is capable of human-to-human transmission.
Harkin declared, - our past investments in pandemic preparedness are paying off in this outbreak. We have been able to improve surveillance, which may have played a part in recognizing some of these early cases. We have stockpiled antivirals and other medical supplies which are now being transported to other parts of the country to help local governments’ respond to the current outbreak. We have strengthened the capacity of CDC to respond and we have moved forward in developing this country’s capacity to quickly produce vaccine in response to a pandemic.
In opening a Senate committee hearing on the flu situation, Iowa senator Tom Harkin said - the current swine flu virus is, obviously, a different virus. Like H5N1, it is one for which people have little or no immunity and for which there is no vaccine. However, unlike H5N1, this H1N1 flu virus is capable of human-to-human transmission.
Harkin declared, - our past investments in pandemic preparedness are paying off in this outbreak. We have been able to improve surveillance, which may have played a part in recognizing some of these early cases. We have stockpiled antivirals and other medical supplies which are now being transported to other parts of the country to help local governments’ respond to the current outbreak. We have strengthened the capacity of CDC to respond and we have moved forward in developing this country’s capacity to quickly produce vaccine in response to a pandemic.
HSUS President Addresses Farm Broadcasters
Our Nation’s Farm Broadcasters, meeting in Washington, D.C., heard from the President of the Humane Society of the United States - Wayne Pacelle. Pacelle says he believes his organization is a voice nationally to speak for dignity of animals- to make sure that all animals are treated humanely and that they have - a chance to live a decent life. He adds that his group is being unfairly portrayed by agricultural groups and the ag media.
HSUS policy is set by their board of directors. Pacelle said - they do not consider sound science research when they set policy for how they want animals to be cared for. Pacelle promised that HSUS was not going away and they would continue to pursue an agenda on the confinement of livestock across the country.
The HSUS President cited the case of Colorado, where livestock interests in that state sat down with the HSUS with the two sides compromising on what they wanted animal confinement issues to look like in that state- and then took that compromise to the Legislature to be put into law. Similar discussions are underway in Ohio.
HSUS policy is set by their board of directors. Pacelle said - they do not consider sound science research when they set policy for how they want animals to be cared for. Pacelle promised that HSUS was not going away and they would continue to pursue an agenda on the confinement of livestock across the country.
The HSUS President cited the case of Colorado, where livestock interests in that state sat down with the HSUS with the two sides compromising on what they wanted animal confinement issues to look like in that state- and then took that compromise to the Legislature to be put into law. Similar discussions are underway in Ohio.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Canada Begins WTO Action Against U.S.
Following his notification meeting with U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk, Canada’s International Trade Minister Stockwell Day announced that Canada is filing a World Trade Organization complaint over Country-of-Origin-Labeling on Canadian meat products exported to the United States. Day said Canada is objecting to provisions it considers – damaging to Canada’s agriculture industry.
The dispute revolves around labeling regulations that require U.S. producers to indicate the country of origin of food including cuts of beef, poultry, lamb, chicken and pork, plus fruits, vegetables and some nuts. Day said, when the regulations were first announced, they were flexible and - seemed to address Canadian concerns. But that changed when Ag Secretary Vilsack asked meat packers to voluntarily comply with even stricter country-of-origin rules detailing where an animal was born, raised and slaughtered.
Day says, Canada has asked the Obama administration to clarify its position because Vilsack's request is causing uncertainty among Canadian farmers whose business has already declined amid the implementation of country-of-origin labeling. According to USDA Canadian pork exports to the U.S. have dropped by more than 40 per cent this year.
The dispute revolves around labeling regulations that require U.S. producers to indicate the country of origin of food including cuts of beef, poultry, lamb, chicken and pork, plus fruits, vegetables and some nuts. Day said, when the regulations were first announced, they were flexible and - seemed to address Canadian concerns. But that changed when Ag Secretary Vilsack asked meat packers to voluntarily comply with even stricter country-of-origin rules detailing where an animal was born, raised and slaughtered.
Day says, Canada has asked the Obama administration to clarify its position because Vilsack's request is causing uncertainty among Canadian farmers whose business has already declined amid the implementation of country-of-origin labeling. According to USDA Canadian pork exports to the U.S. have dropped by more than 40 per cent this year.
Acre Signup Under Way
The National Corn Growers Association reminds growers that signup for the Average Crop Revenue Election Program is underway. The ACRE program, included in the 2008 farm bill, represents a fundamental reform in the farm safety net. Sign up ends on August 14.
NCGA First Vice President Darrin Ihnen says, - this revenue based option goes a long way toward filling a big gap in our farm safety net. NCGA recognizes that enrollment is going to require more work and preparation by producers considering this option. When you consider all the uncertainty in our commodity markets and the rise in production costs, Ihnen says, - we believe it is time well spent learning how ACRE can fit into your risk management plan.
Access to calculators to evaluate the potential benefits of the ACRE program and related information are available at the NCGA ACRE Resource center web site at ncga.com/acre-resource-center.
NCGA First Vice President Darrin Ihnen says, - this revenue based option goes a long way toward filling a big gap in our farm safety net. NCGA recognizes that enrollment is going to require more work and preparation by producers considering this option. When you consider all the uncertainty in our commodity markets and the rise in production costs, Ihnen says, - we believe it is time well spent learning how ACRE can fit into your risk management plan.
Access to calculators to evaluate the potential benefits of the ACRE program and related information are available at the NCGA ACRE Resource center web site at ncga.com/acre-resource-center.
California Action Brings Reactions
California has become the first state in the Union to mandate carbon-based reductions in transportation fuels. Late last week the California Air Resources Board approved a phased-in reduction starting in 2011, with a goal of shrinking carbon impacts 10% by 2020. Many predict the ruling will be replicated in other parts of the country and adopted by federal regulators.
ARB Board Chairwoman Mary Nichols hailed the low-carbon fuel standard as a major step in moving the nation away from oil dependence and toward alternative fuels that generate lower greenhouse gas emissions. However, biofuel and oil industry critics warned that the air board was moving too quickly and basing some decisions on - shaky science.
Ethanol advocates challenged the report's findings, disputing that their corn-based production had a significant impact on greenhouse-gas increases elsewhere. But they also suggested that petroleum and other fuels were not given the same treatment. Nichols did agree to an “ongoing investigation” into both the direct and indirect effects on land use of all transportation fuels and will allow suppliers to independently certify their feedstocks and processes.
General Wesley Clark, co-chairman of Growth Energy, bluntly put it - we're disappointed with the Board's vote. Clark said - this was a poor decision, based on shaky science, not only for California, but for the nation. Today's decision puts another road block in moving away from dependence on fossil fuels and stifles development of the emerging cellulosic industry. He said - the regulation adopted by the ARB unfairly penalizes biofuels by adding an - indirect land use change figure - to the carbon intensity of biofuels.
American Farm Bureau Federation President Bob Stallman called the California Air Resource Board’s decision - the absolute worst move at the worst possible time. The board is unfairly punishing renewable, American-grown biofuels, and has created greater market demand for imported petroleum products. Stallman pointed out that - the standard put in place measures the indirect land use for biofuels without measuring the indirect land use for other fuels. Stallman says - the board has applied a false measurement to American crops that are grown and will continue to be grown regardless of their end use.
National Corn Growers Association President Bob Dickey says, - board members ignored important estimates of corn yield growth trends as well as the expertise of more than 100 scientists, who disagreed with the proposal’s one-sided focus on indirect land use changes that will only penalize biofuels. Dickey points out that - we may lose a tremendous opportunity to spur economic growth in agricultural communities and it will cost us the opportunity to continue reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson says the ruling is disappointing and unfortunate. Johnson believes - a fairly and appropriately crafted low carbon fuel standard could spur opportunities for renewable fuels, but California's scientifically dubious interpretation of international indirect land use change is an unnecessary setback to reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.
ARB Board Chairwoman Mary Nichols hailed the low-carbon fuel standard as a major step in moving the nation away from oil dependence and toward alternative fuels that generate lower greenhouse gas emissions. However, biofuel and oil industry critics warned that the air board was moving too quickly and basing some decisions on - shaky science.
Ethanol advocates challenged the report's findings, disputing that their corn-based production had a significant impact on greenhouse-gas increases elsewhere. But they also suggested that petroleum and other fuels were not given the same treatment. Nichols did agree to an “ongoing investigation” into both the direct and indirect effects on land use of all transportation fuels and will allow suppliers to independently certify their feedstocks and processes.
General Wesley Clark, co-chairman of Growth Energy, bluntly put it - we're disappointed with the Board's vote. Clark said - this was a poor decision, based on shaky science, not only for California, but for the nation. Today's decision puts another road block in moving away from dependence on fossil fuels and stifles development of the emerging cellulosic industry. He said - the regulation adopted by the ARB unfairly penalizes biofuels by adding an - indirect land use change figure - to the carbon intensity of biofuels.
American Farm Bureau Federation President Bob Stallman called the California Air Resource Board’s decision - the absolute worst move at the worst possible time. The board is unfairly punishing renewable, American-grown biofuels, and has created greater market demand for imported petroleum products. Stallman pointed out that - the standard put in place measures the indirect land use for biofuels without measuring the indirect land use for other fuels. Stallman says - the board has applied a false measurement to American crops that are grown and will continue to be grown regardless of their end use.
National Corn Growers Association President Bob Dickey says, - board members ignored important estimates of corn yield growth trends as well as the expertise of more than 100 scientists, who disagreed with the proposal’s one-sided focus on indirect land use changes that will only penalize biofuels. Dickey points out that - we may lose a tremendous opportunity to spur economic growth in agricultural communities and it will cost us the opportunity to continue reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
National Farmers Union President Roger Johnson says the ruling is disappointing and unfortunate. Johnson believes - a fairly and appropriately crafted low carbon fuel standard could spur opportunities for renewable fuels, but California's scientifically dubious interpretation of international indirect land use change is an unnecessary setback to reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.
TB Found in West Texas Dairy Herd
Preliminary test results indicate that a dairy in west Texas is infected with cattle tuberculosis. There is no public health concern as milk from commercial dairies is pasteurized, killing bacteria with heat. Animals from the 26-hundred head dairy were being prepared for sale and some reacted to TB skin tests. Follow-up blood tests also were positive.
Texas state veterinarian Dr. Bob Hillman said samples were collected from two of the cattle slaughtered for examination, and the tissues were submitted to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa for additional testing. The lesions are microscopically compatible with TB, and additional tests have detected the DNA, or the basic genetic material of the disease.
Dr. Hillman said - an epidemiological investigation has been launched to determine the source or possible spread of the disease. Dr. Hillman noted that one TB-infected herd will not affect the state's status, but two infected herds within a 48-month period will result in a loss of TB-free status.
Texas state veterinarian Dr. Bob Hillman said samples were collected from two of the cattle slaughtered for examination, and the tissues were submitted to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa for additional testing. The lesions are microscopically compatible with TB, and additional tests have detected the DNA, or the basic genetic material of the disease.
Dr. Hillman said - an epidemiological investigation has been launched to determine the source or possible spread of the disease. Dr. Hillman noted that one TB-infected herd will not affect the state's status, but two infected herds within a 48-month period will result in a loss of TB-free status.
Food Safety Legislation Could Be Next
Climate change is the current hot issue on Capitol Hill. But, according to produce industry lobbyists and other Capitol Hill sources, food safety legislation could be up for debate as early as this summer. Robert Guenther, senior vice president of public policy for the United Fresh Produce Association, says - headlines make a case for food safety reform.
Lobbyists say the two food safety bills getting the most attention are the Food and Drug Administration Globalization Act from Representative John Dingell, and The FDA Food Safety Modernization Act, co-sponsored by Senator Richard Durbin. A similar bill, HR 875, is from Representative Rosa DeLauro. Guenther calls these – major legislative proposals – that are on the table.
Guenther said the challenge for lawmakers is that climate change and energy policy will grab the spotlight before Memorial Day. After that, Guenther said the health care debate may heat up. It is believed that some members of Congress would like to address food safety by the end of May, if possible.
Lobbyists say the two food safety bills getting the most attention are the Food and Drug Administration Globalization Act from Representative John Dingell, and The FDA Food Safety Modernization Act, co-sponsored by Senator Richard Durbin. A similar bill, HR 875, is from Representative Rosa DeLauro. Guenther calls these – major legislative proposals – that are on the table.
Guenther said the challenge for lawmakers is that climate change and energy policy will grab the spotlight before Memorial Day. After that, Guenther said the health care debate may heat up. It is believed that some members of Congress would like to address food safety by the end of May, if possible.
Water Research and Development Act Passed House
The U.S. House has passed H.R. 1145, the "National Water Research and Development Act of 2009." The legislation is designed to improve the federal government's role in implementing federal water research, development, demonstration, data collection and dissemination to address changes in U.S. water use, supply and demand. This initiative calls for an interagency committee led by the U.S. Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The bill now heads to the Senate.
Irrigation Association Federal Affairs Director John Farner says, - this legislation is a definite step in the right direction in coordinating our federal resources to ensure our nation addresses water research in a responsible manner. Farner adds - continued dialogue surrounding water use, supply and demand and how water-use efficiency can play a key role in our nation's water management debate.
The Irrigation Association is the leading membership organization for irrigation equipment and system manufacturers, dealers, distributors, designers, consultants, contractors and end users. Originally founded in 1949, IA is dedicated to promoting efficient irrigation.
Irrigation Association Federal Affairs Director John Farner says, - this legislation is a definite step in the right direction in coordinating our federal resources to ensure our nation addresses water research in a responsible manner. Farner adds - continued dialogue surrounding water use, supply and demand and how water-use efficiency can play a key role in our nation's water management debate.
The Irrigation Association is the leading membership organization for irrigation equipment and system manufacturers, dealers, distributors, designers, consultants, contractors and end users. Originally founded in 1949, IA is dedicated to promoting efficient irrigation.
NSP Clarifies Failed Crop Clause
The National Sorghum Producers says growers who experienced a damaging freeze in recent weeks in wheat can still plant a second uninsured crop and remain eligible for crop insurance payments of the first crop. NSP says some producers have been told that planting a second crop behind wheat may affect their eligibility for the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Program if their wheat had already headed out before a freeze. However, according to NSP, a producer planting a second crop behind failed wheat, regardless of the growth stage of the wheat, will be considered a “ghost crop” and will be eligible for SURE.
But, now the fine print. Point one. If the producer listed sorghum on their insurance policy – remember no premium is due unless you actually insure acreage. And point two. If the producer had purchased NAP on the second crops. FSA has confirmed that a “liberal equitable relief policy” will be in effect for 2009 given the late freeze on wheat.
Producers who did not indicate on their insurance forms that they might plant another crop besides wheat will be at the mercy of this “liberal equitable relief policy.” It is still unclear whether producers will be eligible for SURE if they plant a second crop and did not indicate the intent to do so. If producers have sorghum – or another crop – listed on their policy, then they are safe under SURE and should have no problems.
But, now the fine print. Point one. If the producer listed sorghum on their insurance policy – remember no premium is due unless you actually insure acreage. And point two. If the producer had purchased NAP on the second crops. FSA has confirmed that a “liberal equitable relief policy” will be in effect for 2009 given the late freeze on wheat.
Producers who did not indicate on their insurance forms that they might plant another crop besides wheat will be at the mercy of this “liberal equitable relief policy.” It is still unclear whether producers will be eligible for SURE if they plant a second crop and did not indicate the intent to do so. If producers have sorghum – or another crop – listed on their policy, then they are safe under SURE and should have no problems.
CCC Announces Crop Loan Rates
The Commodity Credit Corporation has announced county loan rates for 2009 crops of wheat, corn, grain sorghum, barley, oats, soybeans and other oilseeds such as sunflower seed, flaxseed, canola, rapeseed, safflower, mustard seed, crambe and sesame seed. Those numbers are available on the Farm Service Agency web site.
The national loan rates for the 2009 crops of wheat, feed grains and oilseeds are as follows:
Wheat $2.75 per bushel
Corn $1.95 per bushel
Grain Sorghum $1.95 per bushel
Barley $1.85 per bushel
Oats $1.33 per bushel
Soybeans $5.00 per bushel
Other Oilseeds $9.30 per hundredweight for each "other oilseed"
The national loan rates for the 2009 crops of wheat, feed grains and oilseeds are as follows:
Wheat $2.75 per bushel
Corn $1.95 per bushel
Grain Sorghum $1.95 per bushel
Barley $1.85 per bushel
Oats $1.33 per bushel
Soybeans $5.00 per bushel
Other Oilseeds $9.30 per hundredweight for each "other oilseed"
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