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Ag in the Spotlight: President Biden Proclaims March 23 National Ag Day

For a fifth year, the White House is publicly recognizing March 23, 2021, as National Ag Day. As part of the proclamation, the White House salutes farmers and ranchers for the contributions they continue to make.

Feeding Cows Seaweed Could Reduce Cattle Methane Emissions By 82%
Feeding Cows Seaweed Could Reduce Cattle Methane Emissions By 82%

Is seaweed the answer in helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions from cattle? New research from UC Davis found adding seaweed into beef cattle’s diets could reduce methane emissions by as much as 82%.

Here’s What Agriculture Wants Out of U.S., China March Meeting
Here’s What Agriculture Wants Out of U.S., China March Meeting

Farmers for Free Trade wants to see a full implementation of the Phase One trade agreement. A year into the deal, there are still accountability and compliance issues with China.

A China Critic, Katherine Tai Confirmed as USTR Just Ahead of U.S, China Meetings
A China Critic, Katherine Tai Confirmed as USTR Just Ahead of U.S, China Meetings

In a unanimous Senate vote on Wednesday, Katharine Tai was confirmed as the next U.S. Trade Representative. The trade expert was confirmed with a vote of 98-0.  

The Surprising Truth: 4 Things You May Not Know About Reaching Goals
The Surprising Truth: 4 Things You May Not Know About Reaching Goals

Why don't we finish goals? Jon Acuff, best-selling author and motivational speaker, says we often focus on the wrong thing when we talk about our goals. Here's what he says it takes to finish the goals that matter.

America’s Conservation Ag Movement Engages Farmers
America’s Conservation Ag Movement Engages Farmers

Trust In Food, a Farm Journal initiative to accelerate the adoption of sustainable agriculture, announces the completion of the first wave of regional conservation agriculture programming for farmers in five states.

Bacon Maintained Star Status During the Pandemic
Bacon Maintained Star Status During the Pandemic

Demand for protein of all kinds soared, but bacon outpaced it all.

As Drought Intensifies, Farm Groups Fear Disaster Assistance Will Be a Tough Sell
As Drought Intensifies, Farm Groups Fear Disaster Assistance Will Be a Tough Sell

The western half of the country continues to see little moisture, and after a year of record government payments to agriculture, farm groups fear financial assistance this year will be tough to get passed in Washington.

Commodity Group Execs Say Biden's Top Trade Pick Tai Knows Agriculture
Commodity Group Execs Say Biden's Top Trade Pick Tai Knows Agriculture

While trade is not a headline of the Biden Administration in the first 100 days, it’s not stopping Katherine Tai from making her voice heard. Tai is now waiting full confirmation vote to put her ideas to work.

Biden’s Top Trade Pick Vows to Stay Tough on China
Biden’s Top Trade Pick Vows to Stay Tough on China

Congress got a clearer view of President Biden’s trade agenda this week as the Senate Finance Committee questioned Katherine Tai, Biden's nominee to serve as the United States Trade Representative.

Use Emotional Intelligence to Tackle The Tough Stuff
Use Emotional Intelligence to Tackle The Tough Stuff

“If you can manage these moments, the world is yours,” says Dr. JP Pawliw-Fry.

USDA Projects $4.20 Corn, Chief Economist Explains Why
USDA Projects $4.20 Corn, Chief Economist Explains Why

USDA’s Ag Outlook Forum painted a brighter forecast for corn demand this year. While USDA does expect a 7% increase in production, the agency is also forecasting an increase in domestic use, as well as exports.

True Grit: A Tribute to Ranchers Who Weathered the Extremes This Week
True Grit: A Tribute to Ranchers Who Weathered the Extremes This Week

The record cold temperatures and extreme weather had a major impact on ranchers across the country, but through it all, the men and women showed what the true definition of a rancher is.

Ranchers Working Overtime to Fight Arctic Temperatures
Ranchers Working Overtime to Fight Arctic Temperatures

As snow, ice and frigid temperatures hit the middle of the country, the biggest concern right now is the long tail this cold weather could have on livestock, AgDay’s Clinton Griffiths reports.

Senate to Vote on Vilsack's Secretary of Agriculture Confirmation Next Week
Senate to Vote on Vilsack's Secretary of Agriculture Confirmation Next Week

The Senate has scheduled a vote on Tom Vilsack’s nomination for Secretary of Agriculture on Feb. 23. In early February, the Senate Agriculture Committee unanimously approved President Biden's pick to lead USDA.

Meet the Iowa Farm Family Named 2021 Top Producer of the Year
Meet the Iowa Farm Family Named 2021 Top Producer of the Year

Together with his wife Laurie and sons Scott and Eric, Steve Henry and team have built a sustainable business that now stretches across 10,000 acres in Iowa. 

Looking Past China, What Are the Next Big Ag Trade Moves for Biden Administration?
Looking Past China, What Are the Next Big Ag Trade Moves for Biden Administration?

Trade seems to be taking a back seat in Washington. From COVID-19 recovery to a focus on climate, other issues are taking priority in the new White House. That's not stopping ag groups from pushing for key trade deals.

Could 2021 Net Farm Income Really Drop? Here's Why USDA’s First Forecast May Be Too Low
Could 2021 Net Farm Income Really Drop? Here's Why USDA’s First Forecast May Be Too Low

The net farm income story this year is far from over. Farmer Mac’s chief economist says history shows USDA’s initial look at net farm income is typically too low and this year may be no different.

USDA’s first look at farm income shows without continued ad hoc government payments, which reached a record last year, net farm income will drop this year.
With Fewer Government Payments, USDA Forecasts Farm Income to Fall in 2021

USDA’s first look at net farm income shows without continued ad hoc government payments, net farm income will drop this year.

Is Phase One or Politics Driving China’s Record Appetite for U.S. Ag Products?
Is Phase One or Politics Driving China’s Record Appetite for U.S. Ag Products?

Whether it’s to fulfill Phase One promised, or an increased need for feed, some say the timing of the record Chinese buys isn’t a coincidence. So, what's driving the record demand from China?

President Biden's pick for Ag Secretary has a confirmation hearing set for Tuesday. During that time, Tom Vilsack could detail future plans for utilizing the CCC for climate initiatives and COVID recovery.
Vilsack Could Unveil His Climate, CCC Plans During Tuesday’s Hearing

AS USDA reviews the previous administration’s plans for the remaining CFAP money, President Biden’s pick to lead USDA will help spearhead those efforts, and find ways to incentives farmers for climate initiatives.

U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) speaks during a news conference in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S., January 26, 2021. REUTERS/Al Drago
Sen. Stabenow Supports CFAP Freeze and Review

Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) says she supports the Biden Administration’s move to freeze payments under the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP).

Screen shot of USDA's CFAP webpage.
USDA Freezes $2.3 Billion Supplemental CFAP

USDA late Wednesday posted notice that $2.3 billion in supplemental Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) payments will be temporarily frozen.

PepsiCo, Beyond Meat Partner to Develop New Plant-Based Snacks

PepsiCo Inc and Beyond Meat Inc said on Tuesday they would form a joint venture to develop and sell snacks and beverages made from plant-based protein.

U.S. President-elect Joe Biden is sworn in as the 46th U.S. President, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S., January 20, 2021.
Ag Industry Leaders Congratulate Biden, Echo His Call for Unity

Following the inauguration of President Joe Biden, the 46th President of the United States, agriculture industry leaders congratulated Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.

One former Secretary of Agriculture thinks a Biden Administration and USDA will focus more on crafting a farm bill that includes a focus on conservation.
Why a Biden Administration May Not Buy into the Green New Deal

As President Joe Biden took office Wednesday, one former Secretary of Agriculture thinks a Biden Administration and USDA will focus more on helping craft a farm bill that focuses on conservation.

From the unpredictability with trade to easing of regulations, the past four years have been a whirlwind with farmers, ranchers and policy experts looking back at Trump Administration's impact on agriculture the past four years.
Trump Administration Leaves a Lasting Impact on Agriculture

From the unpredictability with trade to easing of regulations, the past four years have been a whirlwind with farmers, ranchers and policy experts looking back at the Trump Administration's impact on agriculture.

Feral Swine Eradication: USDA invests $11.65 Million to Expand Program

A new $11.65-million investment by the USDA will fund 14 projects to help farmers and private landowners trap and control feral swine.

Nebraska Rancher Uses Herd to Honor Frontline Workers

David Schuler’s Christmastime tradition turned into a tribute to those working on as first responders through the COVID-19 pandemic.

EPA Administrator Nominee Regan Hosts Roundtable with Ag Leaders

EPA Administrator-designate Michael Regan hosted a virtual roundtable with members of the Ag CEO Council and staff, composed of leaders of some of the largest agriculture and farm organizations in the U.S.

How is the Pandemic Affecting Agriculture’s Workforce?
How is the Pandemic Affecting Agriculture’s Workforce?

Confidence about the future of the workplace has declined less than one might expect, says a report from ADP Research Institute. Positivity persists despite the pandemic. But how is COVID-19 affecting the ag workforce?

The Decade Ahead: Societal Trends Will Leave Their Mark On Agriculture
The Decade Ahead: Societal Trends Will Leave Their Mark On Agriculture

The past decade has been weird and wacky to say the least. It makes you wonder what’s in store for the next 10 years. Here are some possible hints.

Smithfield Foods Prepares for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution to U.S. Employees
Smithfield Foods Prepares for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution to U.S. Employees

Smithfield Foods, the world's largest pork processor, said on Wednesday it has medical capabilities at U.S. facilities and is actively preparing for COVID-19 vaccine distribution to employees.

The view of the Nations Capitol as the Democrats and Republicans continue moving forward on the agreement of a coronavirus disease (COVID-19) aid package in Washington, D.C., U.S. December 21, 2020. REUTERS/Ken Cedeno
Covid Aid Bill Provides Ag Funding for Sectors Left Out of CFAP

The coronavirus aid package approved by Congress overnight Monday provides $13 billion in ag funding, much of it destined for sectors left out of previous aid packages.

“The early part of the year should look very different than the latter, but in total, economic growth is estimated to be about 4%, following a retreat of roughly 4% in 2020,” Dan Kowalski, vice president of CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange division.
CoBank: COVID-19 Will Continue To Steer Economy In 2021

“The early part of the year should look very different than the latter, but in total, economic growth is estimated to be about 4%, following a retreat of roughly 4% in 2020,” says Dan Kowalski.

7 Reasons Your Best Employees Quit
7 Reasons Your Best Employees Quit

Learn how to avoid these frustrating and deal-breaking mistakes.

CDC Prioritizes Frontline Meat Workers for COVID-19 Vaccination
CDC Prioritizes Frontline Meat Workers for COVID-19 Vaccination

The Centers for Disease Control agrees that frontline meat and poultry workers should be some of the first vaccinated after health care workers and those in long-term care facilities.

Hannah Thompson-Weeman
What’s Next for Animal Activism in 2021 and What Can We Do About It?

As much as 2020 has shown us being flexible is just as valuable as having plans, I still believe there is merit to taking a moment to reflect on some of the trends we’ve seen and how they may impact us moving forward.

If realized, 2020 would deliver the highest net farm income the U.S. agriculture sector has seen since 2013.
USDA-ERS Predicts $119.6 Billion Net Farm Income For 2020 – The Highest Since 2013

The report says total crop receipts are expected to increase $6.5 billion from 2019 levels. Total animal product receipts are expected to decrease $9.7 billion.

Biden Says He Will Not Immediately Remove Phase 1 Trade Deal With China
Biden Says He Will Not Immediately Remove Phase 1 Trade Deal With China

U.S. President-elect Joe Biden has said that he will not immediately act to remove the Phase 1 trade agreement, which President Donald Trump inked with China, the New York Times reported on Wednesday.

The surge of COVID-19 cases across the country is hitting rural hospitals especially hard. Many aren’t equipped to handle critical patients, and with hospitals at capacity, some rural hospitals are unable to send patients to urban hospitals for care.
COVID-19 Crisis: Rural Hospitals Have Nowhere to Send Critical Patients

The surge of COVID-19 cases across the country is hitting rural hospitals especially hard. Many aren’t equipped to handle critical patients. Now some hospitals are unable to send patients to urban hospitals for care.

Thanksgiving may look different in 2020, but farmers are still the focus.
Let’s Talk Turkey, Thanksgiving and Traditions

Thanksgiving may look different in 2020, but farmers are still the focus.

COVID-19 Surge Slices U.S. Demand for Big Thanksgiving Turkeys
COVID-19 Surge Slices U.S. Demand for Big Thanksgiving Turkeys

As a last-minute shift toward small-scale celebrations upends demand for the star of Thanksgiving tables, turkey producers and retailers are scrambling to fill orders for lightweight birds and partial cuts.

The board of California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) voted unanimously to implement a group of workplace protocols to protect employees from COVID-19.
California, to be First State to Mandate COVID-19 Workplace Safety Rules

The board of California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) voted unanimously to implement a group of workplace protocols to protect employees from COVID-19.

The organization has moved thousands of potatoes from the farm to people who need them.
New FarmLink Project Helps Farmers Get Food To Hungry People

The organization partners with farmers and other members of the agricultural community to move food from the farm level to food banks and distribution centers around the U.S.

Lost Peaks Ranch
Ranchers Recognized For Outstanding Environmental Stewardship

Seven of America's top cattle operations were honored for implementing practices that make them true stewards of land, air and water resources.

Search is On for the Best Farm-Themed Costume in 2020
Search is On for the Best Farm-Themed Costume in 2020

Halloween 2020 may look a little different, but regardless of what your community says about trick-or-treating, there is no reason why your kids shouldn’t have fun dressing up this year.

Farm Journal Field Days Harvest Edition: Succession Planning and More Live Oct. 20 at 8 a.m.
Farm Journal Field Days Harvest Edition: Succession Planning and More Live Oct. 20 at 8 a.m.

From the Do’s and Don’ts of Succession Planning to the Pro Farmer Harvest Report, Farm Journal Field Days Harvest Edition starts now.

Farm Journal Field Days Launches Harvest Edition
Farm Journal Field Days Launches Harvest Edition

Join us now for new early riser sessions on input buying, grain storage, how to build your own planter and more every Tuesday at 8 a.m. Central.

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Farm Journal Announces 365-Day Extension of Farm Journal Field Days

Live events and online content combine to deliver information and resources when farmers need them most.