IARN — The ethanol industry has been hurt severely in the past few years. Right now, COVID-19 is piling on top of the stress of trade barriers and the Environmental Protection Agencies (EPA) granting of small refinery exemptions (SREs). Speaking of the EPA and SREs, are you familiar with the classic children’s story, “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie”? Well, the mice are back for a glass of milk. Read more
Soy Innovation Challenge: Unearthing Innovative Uses For Soybeans
IARN — Innovation continues to push agriculture forward.
In fact, new data from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests agricultural innovation helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs).
Two organizations are calling on ag-tech startups to find new, innovative uses for one hot commodity. Read more
Will The Agriculture Assistance Package Be Enough
IARN — On Friday, President Trump and the United States Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue detailed a plan to help American agriculture get through this COVID-19 Pandemic. The package has a high price tag to the tune of $19 billion. Of that, $16 billion will be direct aid to farmers and the remaining $3 billion will be in commodity purchases that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will be making to help support food banks as well as keep the market sustained a little while further. While the price seems steep, one must wonder if it is going to be enough. Read more
White House Economic Revival Group Includes Ag Representatives
IARN — The White House economic recovery group includes agriculture leaders. Announced this week, the Great American Economic Revival Industry Groups will “chart the path forward toward a future of unparalleled American prosperity,” according to a White House press release. The panel on agriculture includes American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall, along with processor and packer representatives from Tyson Foods, Cargill, Archer-Daniels-Midland, and others. The plan includes a separate food and beverage industry panel, as well. There are 16 panels in all, representing most of the U.S. economic sectors. Read more
Iowa Lawmakers, Farm Groups Warn Of Economic Grief In Rural Iowa
Statewide Iowa — Iowa’s congressional delegation and the leaders of ag and commodity groups are warning the coronavirus pandemic is significantly damaging the rural economy. Some dairy farmers have dumped milk due to the dramatic drop in demand. Read more
Iowa Cattlemen’s Association Gets Creative In Outreach Efforts
IARN — Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) staff want to hear from members and non-members during this challenging time.
“Don’t be afraid to contact us,” shares Katie Olthoff, ICA senior director of communications and membership. Iowa Cattlemen’s Association staff invite producers to participate in a weekly call. Each call includes: A summary of ICA efforts, industry news, as well as an oppourtunity for members to offer input.
“There are four different times they can get on the phone with us each week. They can hear an update from us, as well as share their concerns, what they’re hearing in the countryside, and things like that,” Olthoff said. “This has (kept) us informed, (especially) when we are going to advocate on their behalf.” Read more