Policy Articles
More COVID-19 Direct Payment Details Expected Soon
Published May 18, 2020
The Office of Management and Budget has completed the review of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program. Now, agriculture is waiting on the official announcement. In an interview with the Red River Farm Network on Friday, USDA Under Secretary for Farm…Meat Labeling a Priority for SD Farmers Union
Published May 16, 2020
South Dakota Farmers Union Communications and Policy Specialist Luke Reindl says meat labeling continues to be a top priority for the organization, especially Country of Origin Labeling. "We are strong advocates for correct labeling in the beef industry. It's only…Senate Pushback Expected in Phase Four Stimulus Bill
Published May 16, 2020
On Friday, the House passed a phase four economic stimulus bill with a price tag of $3 trillion. Senate Republicans say the bill will be dead on arrival in the Senate. The Russell Group President Randy Russell says the cost…Emergency Grazing Sought to Deal With Cattle Backlog
Published May 15, 2020
To deal with the bottleneck at the packing plants, cattle feeders are holding back lightweight cattle. R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard says that means more grazing land is needed for these animals. As a solution, Bullard is asking USDA to…Biotechnology Policies Updated
Published May 15, 2020
USDA is making the first significant update to its biotechnology regs in more than 30 years. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said this will streamline and modernize the USDA regulatory system and facilitate science-based technologies.China Now Allowing Imports of U.S. Barley
Published May 14, 2020
The Chinese customs agency filed that notice Thursday. This action is happening as China ramps up imports of U.S. ag products through the phase one trade deal. China is also in a trade dispute with Australia, creating a new opportunity…Ethanol Industry Welcomes Potential COVID-19 Relief
Published May 13, 2020
Included in the $3 trillion HEROES Act is support for the biofuels industry. A Renewable Fuel Reimbursement Program would pay biofuel makers based on the number of gallons produced from January through May. The ethanol industry welcomes the support. "We…MN Corn Matters
Published May 13, 2020
A couple priorities for the Minnesota Corn Growers Association in this year's state legislative session include grain bin safety and biofuels. Hear more from MCGA Past President Brian Thalmann in the latest Corn Matters.FSA Prepares for Direct Payment Sign-Up
Published May 13, 2020
The Farm Service Agency is preparing farmers and ranchers for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program direct payment sign-up. To sign-up, farmers will need to be in contact with their county FSA office to schedule an appointment. Due to the COVID-19…