Progress in Washington for this year’s Farm Bill is nearing a halt, but that has not stopped ag groups from letting lawmakers know their priorities.
Ted McKinney, President of NASDA, says the U.S. is falling behind in funding for ag research and trade programs. He tells Brownfield Ag News spending on land grant institutions has been a low priority in the last two Farm Bills, and he feels that has led to a decline in new talent for the food and ag sector.
NASDA members are also calling for more market access and development. McKinney says that is the only way to level the playing field around the world.
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Ohio’s 90-day fuel-tax suspension provides temporary relief as farmers work through harvest, but Brad Bales with the Ohio Farm Bureau says longer-term solutions are needed to address higher production costs.
Kansas farmers are facing harvest delays after heavy rain followed a summer of drought and extreme heat, while lower yields and higher diesel costs add pressure.
Producers are watching Congress as weaker demand puts pressure on the pork sector.
Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue says heavy rain is delaying harvest, while high fuel and input costs squeeze margins. Cattle producers are watching developments on the Farm Bill and beef import policy.
Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor says permanent year-round E15 could create a larger domestic market for U.S. corn as the Farm Bill moves toward a Senate vote.
The Renewable Fuels Association says emergency waivers do not provide retailers with long-term certainty.
