Independent Ag Network

Ag Groups Applaud House Vote on E15 Sales

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Fri, 15 May 2026 13:46:15 +0000

Farm and biofuel groups praised the U.S. House after lawmakers approved legislation allowing the nationwide year-round sale of E15 gasoline, a move supporters say would boost corn demand, lower fuel costs and strengthen rural economies. The House voted 218-203 on Wednesday to pass the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, which would permanently allow sales of gasoline blended with 15% ethanol during summer months. Current federal rules restrict E15 sales in many states during the summer because of air-quality regulations. The American Farm Bureau Federation called the measure a “win-win” for farmers and consumers. President Zippy Duvall said expanded E15 access would increase corn demand and provide drivers with fuel often priced below standard gasoline. The National Farmers Union, American Coalition for Ethanol and other biofuel groups also applauded the bipartisan vote, arguing permanent E15 sales would provide more certainty for ethanol producers and rural communities. Supporters said the bill could help farmers facing weak commodity prices and rising production costs while offering consumers another lower-cost fuel option. The legislation now moves to the Senate.

Farm Bill Debate Intensifies as Congress Eyes 2026 Legislation

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Fri, 15 May 2026 13:45:57 +0000

Congressional negotiations over the next farm bill intensified this week as lawmakers continued debating funding priorities, nutrition programs and conservation spending tied to the legislation that shapes U.S. agriculture policy. House and Senate agriculture leaders are working to advance a new multiyear farm bill after repeated delays in recent years. Discussions have focused heavily on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program funding, crop insurance protections and conservation initiatives important to farmers and ranchers. Agricultural organizations remain divided on several provisions, including pesticide liability protections and proposed changes to commodity support programs. Farm groups have urged lawmakers to complete the legislation this year amid ongoing uncertainty in commodity markets, high input costs and global trade concerns. Supporters say the bill is critical to providing stability for producers facing weather challenges and fluctuating prices, while critics argue disagreements over spending priorities could slow progress. The current farm bill framework has been extended several times as negotiations continue.

USDA Soybean Oil Export Outlook Raises Concerns About Market Volatility

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Fri, 15 May 2026 13:45:38 +0000

New USDA projections for soybean oil exports are increasing concerns about price volatility in agricultural markets as demand tied to renewable fuels continues reshaping the soybean sector. Analysts with the University of Illinois’ farmdoc daily said the government’s first 2026-27 soybean outlook projects stronger domestic soybean crushing and growing soybean oil exports, while overall soybean ending stocks are expected to remain tighter than many traders anticipated. The report said increased reliance on soybean oil for renewable diesel and biofuel production could disconnect U.S. soybean oil prices from broader global vegetable oil markets, potentially leading to sharper swings in prices. Researchers noted export projections remain uncertain because global demand, biofuel policy and trade conditions could change quickly. Market analysts said volatility in soybean oil prices could eventually influence soybean acreage decisions, processing margins and farm profitability across major soybean-producing states.

U.S. Wheat Associates Welcomes USDA Announcement of Award for Food for Peace Program

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Fri, 15 May 2026 13:45:20 +0000

U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) welcomes the announcement of the award of 20,000 metric tons (MT) for emergency feeding programs under the USDA administration of the Food for Peace program. “We appreciate the efforts of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg and their teams for their hard work to bring this first award of wheat under the USDA’s administration of the Food for Peace program,” said Dalton Henry, USW vice president of communications and policy. The wheat is destined for emergency feeding programs in East Africa, which will be delivered by the World Food Program. Shipment is expected to take place later this summer along with other commodities, including rice and sorghum. “This is the first of hopefully many shipments under the USDA’s administration of the Food for Peace program,” said Amanda Hoey, chief executive officer of the Oregon Wheat Commission and chair of the USW Food Aid Working Group.

USDA Data Shows Record Corn, Soybean Yields in 2025

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Fri, 15 May 2026 13:45:03 +0000

Newly released USDA county yield estimates show U.S. corn and soybean production reached record levels in 2025, with the highest yields concentrated across the central Corn Belt. The National Agricultural Statistics Service reported the national average corn yield reached a record 186.5 bushels per acre last year, while soybean yields averaged a record 53 bushels per acre, according to an analysis published by farmdoc daily at the University of Illinois. Winter wheat yields averaged 54.9 bushels per acre, the second-highest on record. Illinois led many yield categories, with several counties topping 240 bushels per acre for corn and more than 73 bushels per acre for soybeans. Yields generally remained strongest across Illinois, Iowa, Indiana and parts of Nebraska and Minnesota. Researchers also noted a continued decline in the number of counties reporting USDA yield estimates, largely tied to lower farmer survey participation rates.

Senate Democrats Question USDA Research Reorganization Plans

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Fri, 15 May 2026 13:44:45 +0000

Sen. Amy Klobuchar and 23 other senators are raising concerns about the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s planned reorganization of its Research, Education and Economics mission area, saying the changes could disrupt agricultural research and economic reporting. In a letter sent to USDA officials, the lawmakers said they support efforts to improve efficiency but warned the restructuring could weaken the department’s research agencies and limit their ability to provide scientific innovation and economic data to farmers and rural communities. The senators asked USDA to provide details about steps being taken to reduce disruptions for farmers, ranchers and agricultural researchers during the transition. They also urged the department to follow Government Accountability Office recommendations related to federal agency reorganizations. The Research, Education and Economics division oversees several USDA agencies, including the Economic Research Service and the National Agricultural Statistics Service, which provide data and research widely used throughout the agriculture industry. The letter was signed by Democratic senators and two independents who caucus with Democrats.

Friday Watch List

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Fri, 15 May 2026 13:43:25 +0000

Markets

On Friday, traders will continue to watch for details emerging from the second day of meetings between President Trump and President Xi in Beijing. After the close, CFTC will wrap up the week with the Commitments of Traders report, updating positions as of Tuesday, May 12.

Weather

A stalling front is the focal point for some scattered showers and thunderstorms for the middle of the country on Friday. From southwest Kansas through Wisconsin, we should see thunderstorms developing Friday afternoon and evening. A risk of strong winds and hail are expected. Breezy winds in the Northern Plains and Canadian Prairies continue, though weaker than the past couple of days. Rain will change to snow for some in the northern Canadian Prairies.

Soybean Markets Watching Trump/Xi Meeting for Possible Export Implications

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Thu, 14 May 2026 13:45:20 +0000

Soybean markets are closely watching this week’s meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping for signs of renewed agricultural trade between the two countries. Analysts say the talks could lead to additional Chinese purchases of U.S. soybeans, corn and sorghum, though expectations remain tempered because China has increasingly relied on lower-priced Brazilian soybeans in recent years. Market observers said any large export commitments could support soybean futures, which recently climbed to two-year highs. Farm groups and grain traders are also watching for progress on broader trade issues that could affect agricultural exports. Reuters reported discussions may include grain, meat and ethanol products as both nations seek to preserve a fragile trade truce. However, analysts cautioned that previous high-level meetings have not always produced long-term agreements. China remains one of the largest overseas markets for U.S. agricultural products.

Possible Strike at Colorado Cargill Plant

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Thu, 14 May 2026 13:45:00 +0000

Contract negotiations at a Cargill beef processing plant in Fort Morgan, Colorado, have fueled speculation of a possible worker strike, though the company has not confirmed any labor action. Cargill said only that discussions with employees are ongoing, while the local union has not responded to requests for comment. Industry analysts said the reports have not disrupted cattle markets, noting the facility has sufficient shackle capacity and there is no clear indication of either a formal strike or a wildcat walkout. The Fort Morgan beef plant is closed this week as negotiations continue, according to sources familiar with the talks. Some reports also pointed to a related legal dispute, though few details were immediately available. Separately, union workers at Denver Processing, a subsidiary of JBS, voted to authorize an unfair labor practice strike. The authorization does not automatically trigger a walkout but allows union leaders to call one if bargaining efforts fail.

House Dems Planning Strategy to Undo Trump Environmental Policy

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Thu, 14 May 2026 13:44:40 +0000

House Democrats are preparing a broad oversight campaign targeting the Trump Administration’s energy and environmental policies if they regain control of the chamber in the midterm elections. Lawmakers on the House Natural Resources Committee said they plan to investigate potential conflicts of interest, industry ties and administration dealings involving public lands, energy development and environmental policy. Rep. Jared Huffman, the committee’s top Democrat, said lawmakers already have multiple investigations “teed up” and would pursue subpoenas and testimony requests if Democrats reclaim the majority. E&E News reports Democrats and allied groups, including the League of Conservation Voters, have been reviewing administration actions involving offshore wind leases, California water policy and energy projects. Republicans and administration officials have denied wrongdoing. An Interior Department spokesperson said associate deputy secretary Karen Budd-Falen has complied with all ethics requirements amid Democratic scrutiny of her ranching interests and public lands policies.

Senate Prepares to Take Up House-Passed Farm Bill

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Thu, 14 May 2026 13:44:22 +0000

Senate lawmakers are beginning work on the next phase of the 2026 farm bill after the House approved its version last week, setting up negotiations over commodity programs, conservation funding and livestock regulations. Farm groups are closely watching Senate discussions involving crop insurance, reference prices and livestock provisions tied to California’s Proposition 12 animal housing law. Ethanol organizations are also pushing lawmakers to include permanent nationwide access to E15 gasoline sales. House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson said lawmakers hope to move quickly on final negotiations, though differences remain between Republicans and Democrats over nutrition spending and climate-related conservation programs. Agricultural economists say the bill comes as farmers continue facing lower commodity prices and elevated input costs. Commodity groups warned delays in passing a final package could create uncertainty for producers making planting and marketing decisions this year.

High Fuel, Input Costs Continue to Pressure Farmers

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Thu, 14 May 2026 13:44:03 +0000

Rising diesel fuel and fertilizer prices are increasing financial pressure on U.S. farmers during the peak of spring planting season, according to analysts and farm groups. Energy costs have climbed in recent weeks amid global trade tensions and uncertainty surrounding tariffs and overseas shipping routes. Higher natural gas prices have also increased fertilizer production costs, especially for nitrogen products heavily used by corn growers. Agricultural economists say many row-crop producers are already operating with thin profit margins after several months of lower corn and soybean prices. Diesel prices are affecting everything from fieldwork to grain transportation, adding expenses across the supply chain. The American Farm Bureau Federation said elevated input costs continue to limit profitability for many farms despite improved planting conditions in parts of the Midwest. Market analysts said producers may reduce fertilizer applications or delay equipment purchases if costs remain elevated through the growing season.

Renewable Diesel Demand Driving Soybean Processing Growth

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Thu, 14 May 2026 13:43:45 +0000

Strong demand for renewable diesel is continuing to drive soybean processing growth across the United States, boosting demand for soy oil used in biofuel production. Industry analysts say expanding renewable fuel mandates and favorable processing margins have encouraged crushers to increase capacity as energy companies seek additional feedstocks for low-carbon diesel fuel. Several new soybean processing facilities are expected to begin operations this year across the Midwest. The increased crush demand has helped support soybean markets despite uncertainty surrounding export competition and global grain supplies. Agricultural economists say domestic demand from biofuel producers is becoming a larger factor in soybean pricing. Biofuel groups and soybean organizations continue to support federal renewable fuel policies, arguing they create new markets for farmers and rural communities. Some livestock groups, however, have raised concerns that higher soybean oil demand could contribute to increased feed costs.

Thursday Watch List

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Thu, 14 May 2026 13:42:10 +0000

Markets

USDA will lead off Thursday with the weekly Export Sales report at 7:30 a.m. CDT. Later in the afternoon at 2 p.m. CDT, ERS will release a number of monthly commodity outlooks, following up USDA's forecasts from Tuesday's WASDE.

Weather

A strong storm system is building in the Canadian Prairies on Thursday where areas of heavy rain and thunderstorms may produce some severe weather. Strong winds are found there and into the Northern Plains as well for Thursday. The cold front to the system will push eastward through the Plains and Upper Midwest, sparking some thunderstorms. A few of those could be severe over the Central Plains.

May WASDE Indicates Large Corn and Soybean Stocks, Tightens Wheat Outlook

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Wed, 13 May 2026 13:46:23 +0000

USDA’s May World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report offered the first official look at the 2026-27 crop year, projecting large corn and soybean supplies while tightening the outlook for wheat production. USDA forecast U.S. corn production at about 16 billion bushels, supported by expanded acreage and trendline yields, while soybean production was projected near 4.44 billion bushels. Analysts said the outlook points to ample supplies if favorable growing conditions continue through the summer. The report reduced the wheat production outlook to roughly 1.56 billion bushels because of drought conditions across parts of the western Plains. Wheat futures climbed following the report as traders reacted to tighter supplies and ongoing weather concerns. USDA’s projections are expected to shape grain marketing and risk-management decisions as farmers continue spring planting across much of the Corn Belt.

Beef Import Debate Intensifies as Prices Rise

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Wed, 13 May 2026 13:46:06 +0000

The Trump administration has delayed plans to reduce tariffs on imported beef after pushback from cattle producers and lawmakers concerned about impacts on U.S. ranchers. The Wall Street Journal reports officials had considered increasing beef imports to help ease record-high retail beef prices. Ranch groups warned expanded imports from countries such as Brazil and Argentina could hurt domestic producers already facing high feed and fuel costs. Financial Times reports the White House is now focusing more heavily on boosting domestic beef production rather than immediately lowering import barriers. The U.S. cattle herd remains near multi-decade lows following years of drought and elevated production expenses. Analysts say shrinking cattle supplies have contributed to rising grocery store prices for steaks and ground beef. The New York Post reported administration officials are also reviewing financing assistance and possible regulatory changes aimed at supporting cattle producers and stabilizing beef supplies.

Florida Blueberry Growers Take 75% Loss from Freeze

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Wed, 13 May 2026 13:45:46 +0000

Florida blueberry growers are reporting severe crop losses after a series of freezes in late January and early February damaged plants across central and northern parts of the state, industry officials said. Many farms lost between two-thirds and 75% of their crop, far worse than early estimates. Austin Sigety of Frogmore Fresh told Fresh Plaza his farm’s harvest began nearly two months later than normal after freezing temperatures destroyed early fruit. Growers said temperatures dropped as low as 18 degrees Fahrenheit, overwhelming traditional frost-protection systems. The lighter crop has tightened domestic blueberry supplies and kept prices firm through much of the Florida season. Retailers supplemented inventories with imports from Peru and Mexico before Georgia’s harvest began increasing supplies. Despite the losses, growers continued harvesting to maintain relationships with retailers and preserve market share ahead of next season, which many hope will return to normal.

Farm Bill Debate Continues in Washington

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Wed, 13 May 2026 13:45:28 +0000

Debate over the 2026 farm bill continues in Washington as lawmakers work through differences on commodity programs, conservation funding, crop insurance and biofuel policy. The House Agriculture Committee said the proposed Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 includes expanded credit access, conservation tools and support for specialty crop producers. Committee leaders say the legislation is designed to address inflation, trade uncertainty and rising production costs. Biofuel groups continue pushing lawmakers to include permanent year-round E15 sales in the legislation, calling it a major priority for corn growers and rural economies. Ethanol Producer Magazine reported renewable fuel organizations believe expanded ethanol access could strengthen demand for corn and increase fuel choices for consumers. Senate negotiations are expected later this spring, with agricultural leaders warning delays could create uncertainty for producers making long-term financial decisions.

USDA Research and Crop Policy Remain Key Focus

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Wed, 13 May 2026 13:45:07 +0000

Federal agriculture research and crop policy remain major issues as lawmakers continue discussions surrounding the 2026 farm bill and USDA priorities. The USDA Economic Research Service reported ongoing research tied to commodity programs, conservation, crop insurance and rural development will play a major role in shaping future agricultural policy. Agricultural organizations are also closely monitoring USDA reports on farm income, commodity costs and export demand as planting season advances across much of the country. The House Agriculture Committee said lawmakers continue debating funding levels for conservation programs, rural development initiatives and specialty crop programs as negotiations over the next farm bill continue. Farm leaders say research funding and access to credit remain especially important for producers dealing with volatile markets and weather conditions. Agricultural economists warn decisions made during the coming months could significantly influence producer profitability and long-term risk management strategies across the farm sector.

Cinco de Mayo Sets Record Volume Avocado Demand

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Wed, 13 May 2026 13:44:44 +0000

Record volumes of avocados moved through U.S. markets ahead of Cinco de Mayo this year, driven by strong supplies from Mexico and California and aggressive retail promotions tied to the holiday, industry officials said. Calavo Growers said shipments for the annual celebration likely reached an all-time high as demand for guacamole and avocado-based foods remained strong. Industry groups estimated more than 235 million pounds of Mexican avocados were imported into the United States in the four weeks leading up to Cinco de Mayo, surpassing previous records. Mexican exporters also reported shipments between 105,000 and 110,000 tons for the holiday week alone. Fresh Plaza reports supplies have expanded compared with spring 2025, when tighter inventories pushed prices higher. This year’s heavier volume has helped keep prices more affordable for retailers and consumers, according to growers and distributors. Industry officials expect strong avocado demand to continue through summer promotions tied to Memorial Day, soccer events and the Fourth of July.

Wednesday Watch List

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Wed, 13 May 2026 13:43:29 +0000

Markets

On Wednesday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics will release the Producer Price Index report at 7:30 a.m. CDT. The Energy Information Administration will release the weekly Petroleum Status Report at 9:30 a.m. CDT, including last week's ethanol production in the U.S. At 1 p.m. CDT, USDA will release a few follow-up reports to Tuesday's WASDE, such as updating the Feed Grains database and wheat dataset.

Weather

A small system is moving out of the Midwest and into the Northeast with some showers for Wednesday. The next system is moving through the Pacific Northwest with scattered showers that will move into the Canadian Prairies and Northern Plains throughout the day. Breezy winds will develop in the Plains ahead of the system, a concern for spreading wildfires.

DOJ Continuing Investigation into Alleged Meatpacking Antitrust Violations

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Tue, 12 May 2026 13:53:06 +0000

The U.S. Department of Justice is intensifying its investigation into possible antitrust violations in the beef packing industry, prompting renewed calls from ranching groups for greater competition and market transparency. Federal officials said investigators are examining whether consolidation among the nation’s largest meatpackers contributed to inflated beef prices for consumers and reduced prices paid to cattle producers. The four largest beef processors control roughly 85% of the fed cattle market, according to the DOJ. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche encouraged industry insiders to provide information through the department’s whistleblower program, which could award up to 30% of penalties in qualifying cases. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said consolidation has weakened negotiating power for ranchers and increased dependence on a small number of buyers, according to the Oklahoma Farm Report. Ranching groups, including R-CALF USA, welcomed the investigation and urged reforms aimed at strengthening rural economies and protecting independent cattle producers.

Congress Prepares for Fertilizer, E15 Debates

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Tue, 12 May 2026 13:53:00 +0000

Congress returns this week with major agriculture issues dominating the agenda, including fertilizer costs, biofuel policy and farm economic concerns. The Senate Agriculture Committee is expected to review fertilizer supply challenges as farmers continue facing elevated input prices tied to global supply disruptions and trade uncertainty. Meanwhile, the House is preparing to consider legislation allowing year-round nationwide sales of E15 gasoline blends containing 15% ethanol. Corn growers and ethanol groups have pushed for permanent E15 access for years, arguing the policy would expand domestic fuel supplies and strengthen corn demand. Oil industry groups have raised concerns about fuel infrastructure compatibility and regulatory impacts. Farm organizations also are urging lawmakers to address broader economic pressures, including weak commodity prices and higher operating costs during spring planting season. The debate comes as Congress continues negotiations on a long-delayed farm bill that includes commodity programs, conservation funding and nutrition assistance priorities.

Administration Expands Beef Import Flexibility Amid Tight Cattle Supplies

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Tue, 12 May 2026 13:52:30 +0000

The Trump administration is moving to increase flexibility for beef imports as U.S. cattle inventories remain near historic lows and retail beef prices continue climbing. Federal officials said the temporary measures are designed to help stabilize consumer prices while domestic cattle producers continue rebuilding herds reduced by years of drought, high feed costs and shrinking pasture conditions. The Wall Street Journal reports the proposal has divided the cattle industry. Some ranching groups warned additional imports could place downward pressure on domestic cattle markets and reduce profits for American producers already dealing with tight margins. Others said expanded imports may help processors and retailers maintain supplies during peak demand periods. The U.S. cattle herd recently fell to its lowest level in decades, contributing to higher beef prices nationwide. Analysts say herd rebuilding could take several years because producers remain cautious about weather conditions and production costs. Consumer demand for beef has remained strong despite higher grocery prices.

76% of USDA Employees Say They Won’t Move to Kansas City

noreply@blogger.com (JWF) — Tue, 12 May 2026 13:52:11 +0000

More than three-quarters of USDA researchers affected by planned agency relocations say they do not intend to move, according to a survey conducted by a federal employee union, raising concerns about staffing losses and disruptions to agricultural research programs. The American Federation of Government Employees Local 3403 said 76% of surveyed employees at the Economic Research Service and National Institute of Food and Agriculture indicated they would not relocate under USDA plans to move positions from the Washington area to Kansas City, according to the Federal News Network. Union officials warned the relocations could trigger another “brain drain” similar to a 2019 USDA move in which roughly 85% of affected employees reportedly resigned or retired rather than relocate. The union said staffing losses could slow research, delay grant funding for universities and affect economic analysis relied upon by farmers and policymakers. USDA officials have said decentralizing operations could improve efficiency and place agencies closer to agricultural communities.