(Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry) U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) Monday introduced the Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act. The bill includes $39 billion in new resources to keep farmers farming, families fed, and
Farm Bill
Back TO HOMEDaybreak Oct. 8: White House Hosts Farm Groups, Ag Leaders
by Lydia Johnson, Steve Davies, Noah Wicks, and Rebekah Alvey (Agri-Pulse) USDA and the White House will host selected farm groups for meetings today (October 8, 2024) with government officials to discuss the Biden administration’s key ag and rural investments. The “Farmers
October 09, 2024 Read Full Article
Biden-Harris Administration Makes up to $7.7 Billion Available for Climate-Smart Practices on Agricultural Lands as Part of Investing in America Agenda DEADLINES varied
(US Department of Agriculture) USDA Provides Historic Investments for Working Lands through Inflation Reduction Act and Farm Bill -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today (October 2, 2024) announced up to $7.7 billion in assistance for fiscal year 2025 to help
October 04, 2024 Read Full Article
Tim Walz Sets Ambitious Environmental Goals Amid Political Shift
by Evrim Ağacı (The Pinnacle Gazette) The Minnesota governor’s policies aim for sustainability and innovation as he tackles climate issues head-on, signaling potential changes on the national stage. -- ... His progressive environmental stance and innovative policies have sparked discussions about sustainable
August 15, 2024 Read Full Article
Project 2025 Is Awful for Midwest Farmers and Biofuels. Trump Should Disown It.
by Jon Doggett and Bob Dinneen (Des Moines Register/National Corn Growers Association/Renewable Fuels Association) To put it bluntly, farmers and renewable fuel industry workers who take the time to read the Project 2025 recommendations on agriculture and energy are likely to be
August 12, 2024 Read Full Article
Minnesota Governor Was a Climate Champion even before He Called Trump ‘Weird’
by Adam Aton (Politico Pro Climatewire) Tim Walz has turned a slim majority in the state Legislature into a launchpad for bold climate policies. -- After Minnesota Democrats defied midterm expectations and won narrow control of state government, it took Gov. Tim
August 06, 2024 Read Full Article
Letter: Ethanol Has Positive Climate and Human Health Benefits
by Brian Werner (Minnesota Biofuels Association/Republican Eagle) An opinion piece published in the Republican Eagle on July 12 by the Lake Pepin Legacy Alliance presented a one-sided view of the environmental benefits of ethanol and mislead readers into believing that ethanol
July 25, 2024 Read Full Article
Sustainable Aviation Fuel Could Help Clear the Air, Former Kansas Senator Says | Opinion
by Pat Roberts (Wichita Eagle/Americans for Clean Aviation Fuels) ... Unfortunately, SAF represents less than one percent of the current market and costs two to four times more than traditional jet fuel. To tackle this challenge, the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act
July 15, 2024 Read Full Article
New Study Showcases Corn Farming’s Contribution to the Economy
(National Corn Growers Association) Corn growers were responsible for a $151 billion boost to the U.S. economy in 2023, according to a new report released this week by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). The report, entitled NCGA Economic Contribution Study for 2023, looked
July 12, 2024 Read Full Article
'Climate Smart' Label Spells Trouble for Farm Bill
by Marc Heller (E&E News) Lawmakers are at odds over how to define climate-friendly farming. -- Lawmakers looking to use the 2024 farm bill to fight climate change are running into another complication: Not everyone agrees on what makes agriculture "climate smart." Shifting
July 09, 2024 Read Full Article
SAF Still an Open Issue for Agriculture
(NAFB News Service/Matt Kaye/Berns Bureau/American Ag Network) Sustainable Aviation Fuel tax treatment remains in limbo despite months of regulatory efforts and, most recently, a push to include the treatment of SAF crops in the House farm bill. Biofuel producers and feedstock
June 12, 2024 Read Full Article
Boozman Unveils Senate Ag Republicans Framework Answering Call to Put More Farm in the Farm Bill
(U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry) U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), ranking member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, released the following statement after unveiling the Senate Republican-drafted framework answering the call for a farmer-focused
June 12, 2024 Read Full Article
The Farm Bill Is an Opportunity for Bold Action on Advanced Biofuels
by Mike McAdams (Advanced Biofuels Association/Real Clear Energy) More and more, agriculture and renewable energy production have become inexorably linked. Solar, wind, and biofuels have created new economic potential and horizons of opportunity for American farmers in the last two decades.
June 05, 2024 Read Full Article
Stabenow, Thompson Release Outlines For 2024 Farm Bill
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow, D-Mich., and House Agriculture Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson, R-Pa., on May 1 released outlines for competing versions of the 2024 Farm Bill. The Farm Bill is
May 02, 2024 Read Full Article
Groups Call for Farm to Fly in Energy Title
by Nicole Heslip (Brownfield Ag News) A National Corn Growers Association board member says including the Farm to Fly Act in the farm bill would help USDA recognize the science-based emissions reduction efforts of the sustainable aviation fuel supply chain. Ohio farmer John
May 01, 2024 Read Full Article
Industry Leaders Share Sustainable Aviation Prioroties for Farm Bill
(Fuels America) Amid the ongoing negotiations surrounding the Farm Bill, industry stakeholders representing nearly the entire supply chain for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) – including seven major airlines – called on Agriculture Committee leaders in the House and Senate to boost the role
April 25, 2024 Read Full Article
EPA Issues Emergency Fuel Waiver for E-15 Sales
(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) EPA takes action to provide consumers relief at the pump by helping ensure an adequate fuel supply ahead of the upcoming season -- Today, April 19, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is issuing an emergency fuel waiver to
April 19, 2024 Read Full Article
Duckworth Boosts Illinois Ag: Advocates Ethanol, Farm Support, and Global Trade
(Illinois Ag Connection) U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, a stalwart supporter of Illinois agriculture, recently met with the new President of the Illinois Farm Bureau, Brian Duncan. Their discussion focused on the state's agricultural priorities within the ongoing Farm Bill reauthorization process. Duckworth
March 11, 2024 Read Full Article
Biden in State of the Union Had Nothing to Say about Biofuels; Little to Say about the Environment
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) If you were looking for support from the President in his State of the Union speech for renewable fuels as a way to mitigate climate change, you were sorely disappointed last night. Not a word
March 08, 2024 Read Full Article
How Much Carbon Can Farmers Store in Their Soil? Nobody’s Sure.
by Max Graham (Grist) Advocates say the long-awaited farm bill could help fix that. -- ... If America’s growers and herders made sure the carbon on their land stayed underneath their crops and their cows’ hooves, then some scientists say the planet
February 13, 2024 Read Full Article
On the Right Tractor: Agricultural Bills Roundup
(The Carbon Copy) Though everyone's favorite farm-themed omnibus stalled in Congress, policymakers are forging ahead with relevant legislation that supports the agricultural sector and could be included in the eventual Farm Bill. Since late 2023, three C180-endorsed bills have debuted: ???? Partnerships for Agricultural Climate Action Act
February 06, 2024 Read Full Article
Biofuels Vision Solidified for Haley
(Iowa Renewable Fuels Association/Biobased Diesel Daily) Nikki Haley is now the second candidate currently campaigning in Iowa for the Republican nomination to take a positive position on all eight topics vital to the future of Iowa farmers and biofuels producers. Haley was
December 29, 2023 Read Full Article
Timeline 2024: 28 Sustainability Policies, Guidelines and Targets to Track
by Elsa Wenzel (GreenBiz) ... The business of sustainability continues to evolve rapidly. Here are the most important changes to expect in the coming year. Below are some defining moments that will drive change in the business of sustainability in the
December 20, 2023 Read Full Article
Farm Bill, Budget Extension Goes to President's Desk
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) The farm bill extension tied to short-term federal funding passed the Senate Wednesday night on an 87-11 vote and now goes to President Joe Biden to avoid the risk of another government shutdown. On the farm
November 16, 2023 Read Full Article
Sen. Tim Scott Checks the Biofuels Boxes
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) According to Biofuels Vision 2024, Sen. Tim Scott is the first Republican presidential candidate to check all the boxes on important issues for the biofuel industry. Iowa Renewable Fuels Association Vice President Brad Wilson, the president/general manager of the Western
November 10, 2023 Read Full Article
Opinion: Climate Change and Hunger Are Here Now—a New Farm Bill Can’t Wait
by Beth Ellikidis (Biotechnology Innovation Organization/Agri-Pulse) ... One way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our climate is by getting more of the energy we use from above the ground instead of beneath it. The biotech company LanzaTech genetically engineers microbes to
October 25, 2023 Read Full Article
The Future of Sustainable Aviation Fuel Depends on the 2023 Farm Bill
by Leah Garden (GreenBiz) Sustainable aviation fuel is emerging as the most viable path forward for a decarbonized aviation industry, if the 2023 Farm Bill provides adequate funding. -- ... Even though aviation contributes a total of 2.5 percent of GHG emissions annually, SAF
October 25, 2023 Read Full Article
The Policy Push behind Sustainable Aviation Fuel
By Timothy Eggert (FarmWeek Now) ... Attention and advocacy around sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), what (Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom) Vilsack frames as “the next generation” of liquid biofuels, has accelerated since 2016, with policymakers and industry stakeholders presenting it as
October 10, 2023 Read Full Article
Farm Bill Stalled as Time Ticks Away
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Trying to Craft a Farm Bill, IRA Climate-Smart Dollars Are Object of GOP Affection -- With two weeks left until the current farm bill expires, key players are still floating ideas about what should be in
September 18, 2023 Read Full Article
Advanced Biofuels USA Ideas on Agricultural Policy and the Farm Bill
(Advanced Biofuels USA) As Congress begins work on the upcoming Farm Bill, Advanced Biofuels USA is well aware of the fiscal restraints that might not allow for increased funding levels for renewable energy or crop development R&D at Land Grant Schools,
September 01, 2023 Read Full Article
A New Soil Carbon Bill Breaks Ground
by Cristel Zoebisch (Carbon 180) The ARACI Act will tackle hurdles to scaling land-based carbon removal -- ... Senators (Tina) Smith (D-MN) and (Todd) Young (R-IN) introduced the Advancing Research on Agricultural Climate Impacts Act (ARACI), a critical roadmap to scaling monitoring, reporting,
September 01, 2023 Read Full Article
Climate-Smart Research for the Farms of the Future Briefing Series: Farm Bill in Focus --- September 12, 2023 --- ONLINE
The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) invites you to a briefing that explores the latest advancements in agricultural research, technology, and practices. As climate change continues to trigger extreme weather of increasing frequency and severity, farmers and ranchers are looking for
August 31, 2023 Read Full Article
Bill Increases Support for Sustainable Aviation Fuel
by Joshua Baethge (Farm Progress) Crocket, Miller co-sponsoring Farm to Fuselage Act -- Reps. Jasmine Crockett, D- Texas, and Max Millier, R- Ohio, filed a bill on Friday to increase federal support for sustainable aviation fuel. The Farm to Fuselage Act aims to
August 23, 2023 Read Full Article
Tim Scott Hits Chinese Communist Party, Touts Ethanol in Iowa Ad
by Caroline Vakil (The Hill)Republican presidential candidate Sen. Tim Scott (S.C.) is targeting the Chinese Communist Party over purchasing farmland in Iowa and touts his support of ethanol production in a new radio ad in the early voting state. “Sen. Tim Scott is
August 15, 2023 Read Full Article
Biotechnology Organization Lists Farm Bill Priorities
by Sabrina Halvorson (Southeast AgNet Radio Network) Farm Bill priorities for the biotech industry. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours. The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) says the next Farm Bill offers opportunities to invest in long-term food security, climate resiliency, and growing the
August 02, 2023 Read Full Article
Lowering Crop Production Emissions EWG: Common Practices Can Reduce GHG Emissions From Corn Production
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Environmental Working Group is touting six farming practices in the Corn Belt the group says could greatly reduce nitrous oxide emissions in crop production. EWG also wants to ensure $19.5 billion in funding for USDA conservation
July 26, 2023 Read Full Article
Carbon-Negative Bioenergy Technologies Gain Traction as a Climate Solution
by Brandon Mulder (S&P Global) Study suggests 500 mil mt/year of biomass feedstock; BECCS needs further policy support ... Ethanol production is the largest bioenergy activity in the US. For BECCS to scale to the levels the IPCC identified, the bioenergy industry
June 30, 2023 Read Full Article
Agri-Pulse Open Mic Interviews: Neil Caskey, National Corn Growers Association; Kevin Lucke, Chevron Renewable Energy Group; Meagan Kaiser, United Soybean Board; Tom Ryan, Truterra; and More
(Agri-Pulse) This week’s Open Mic guest is Neil Caskey, CEO of the National Corn Growers Association. At the time Congress is preparing to write a new farm bill, corn farmers are facing a period of high input costs and declining
May 30, 2023 Read Full Article
Sequestration in the Field
by Katie Schroeder (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Carbon intensity scores determine, in part, the value producers get for each gallon of ethanol they produce. Today’s CI calculations don’t factor in low-carbon farming practices, but industry leaders like Brian Jennings are determined
May 13, 2023 Read Full Article
Debt Ceiling Debate Draws in Biofuels
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Debt-Limit Bill Would Repeal Biofuel and Renewable Energy Tax Credits --The federal debt-limit bill dropped Wednesday by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy would repeal several tax credits for the biofuels industry, including tax credits for
April 21, 2023 Read Full Article
Briefing Series: Farm Bill 2023 in Focus --- Select Wednesdays to June 21, 2023 --- ONLINE and Washington, DC
The Process and Path Forward for Passing a Bipartisan Farm Bill Wednesday, April 26 2:00 - 3:30 PM EDT The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) invites you to a briefing on what you need to know about this year’s Farm Bill, including key bipartisan opportunities
April 18, 2023 Read Full Article
Big Week for Ag: Hearings Set on EPA Rules, Farm Bill
by Marc Heller (E&E News) The House Agriculture Committee will question EPA Administrator Michael Regan on agency actions affecting farmers and ranchers as other panels keep crafting the new farm bill. EPA Administrator Michael Regan will make his first visit to
April 17, 2023 Read Full Article
The Next Farm Bill Could Be a Historic Climate Law – if Congress Can Agree on It
by Max Graham (Grist) Will the legislation help turn agriculture, a climate problem, into a climate solution? ... But environmental groups and some farmer advocacy organizations are lobbying Congress to turn this year’s bill — due for an update by October —
April 04, 2023 Read Full Article
Public Comment Periods for House and Senate Farm Bill Portal Closing Soon
(Biofuels Digest) Deadlines are approaching for public input to the House and Senate Agriculture Committees on this year's Farm Bill: must-pass legislation that comes around every five years. Of particular interest for industry is why money is left on the table
March 21, 2023 Read Full Article
ASA CEO: Renewable Diesel Could Drive a New Era for Soybean Demand, but EPA Needs to Rethink the RFS
by Tyne Morgan (AgWeb) ... The policy priorities for ASA differ year to year, but the excitement around biomass-based diesel and renewable diesel kicked into high gear during Commodity Classic last year. A year later, Censky (Steve Censky, American Soybean Association CEO) says soybean
March 08, 2023 Read Full Article
Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa; Kathy Bergren, Brian Jennings, and Kurt Kovarik on Biofuels Policy and the Upcoming Farm Bill
(Agri-Pulse Newsmakers) New figures from the Congressional Budget Office added new layers to the farm bill discussion this week Senate Ag Committee member and Iowa Republican Joni Ernst joins Newsmakers to offer her thoughts on the upcoming legislation as well as
February 20, 2023 Read Full Article
The 2023 Farm Bill Should Be a Climate Bill, Democrats Say
by Maxine Joselow (Washington Post) These House Democrats want the farm bill to be a ‘huge climate win' -- ... Rather, the farm bill — the five-year reauthorization of hundreds of billions of dollars in agriculture and food programs —
February 16, 2023 Read Full Article
USDA to Help Farmers Navigate the Murky World of Soil Carbon Offsets
by Emily Pontecorvo (Grist) When Congress passed an omnibus spending bill in December, it included a bit of bipartisan climate legislation that had been languishing on the Hill since its introduction in 2020. The Growing Climate Solutions Act, supported by climate
February 14, 2023 Read Full Article
New Congress, New Opportunities
by Troy Bredenkamp (Renewable Fuels Association) ... As the calendar turned to 2023, the 118th Congress began with some significant changes in the legislative landscape. Republicans now have control of the House of Representatives for the first time since 2019. With
February 03, 2023 Read Full Article
Senate Ag Sets Four Farm Bill Hearings --- February 16, 2023 --- Washington, DC
by Philip Basher (Agri-Pulse) The Senate Agriculture Committee has scheduled four hearings on farm bill issues, starting with a review of the trade and horticulture titles next Wednesday. READ MORE Farm Bill 2023: Trade and Horticulture Hearing type:Full Committee Hearing Location:328A Russell Senate
January 30, 2023 Read Full Article
Bacon Demands Administration 'Defend the Midwest'
by Lydia Johnson (Agri-Pulse) Speaking on this week’s Agri-Pulse Newsmakers, Nebraska Republican Rep. Don Bacon said biofuels, trade, crop insurance and research are among his top issues for the farm bill and discussed his role in finding common ground in the House with
January 30, 2023 Read Full Article
Newsmakers: Dec. 30, 2022: Ag Groups Share Their Upcoming Farm Bill, 2023 Priorities
(Agri-Pulse Newsmakers) As 2022 comes to a close, Agri-Pulse sat down with leaders across the farm policy spectrum to better understand their priorities in the upcoming farm bill as well as their broader legislative and regulatory efforts. WATCH VIDEO Ag committees
December 30, 2022 Read Full Article
2023 Farm Bill Climate Side-by-Sides/2023 Farm Bill Hearing Trackers
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) Roughly every five years, Congress passes a Farm Bill, covering a wide range of issues from conservation to rural development to food and nutrition. Congress is working to reauthorize the Farm Bill as the 2018 Farm
December 24, 2022 Read Full Article
Agri-Pulse Communications, Inc. Is Launching Its National News Show, Agri-Pulse Newsmakers, on RFD-TV
(Agri-Pulse) The show premiers on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2023, at 11 a.m. ET. “Our editorial team has demonstrated a strong ability to bring people together for high-level discussions that can both inform and engage,” said Agri-Pulse Founder and Editor Sara Wyant. “We have had
December 19, 2022 Read Full Article
Request for Public Input About Implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act Funding DEADLINE December 21, 2022
(Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA/Federal Register) The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) requests public input for NRCS to use to inform how NRCS will implement funds received under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to fund the deployment of climate-smart practices
November 23, 2022 Read Full Article
Congress Is Divided. Here’s Where It May Not Be.
by Arianna Skibel (Politico's Power Switch) ... But POLITICO’s E&E News reporter Jeremy Dillion says when it comes to energy and climate policy, there may be some (narrow) room for agreement. “There likely won’t be a big cross-chamber energy bill, but there will be
November 18, 2022 Read Full Article
Senate Ag Committee Holds Hearing on Farm Bill Energy Programs
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry on Nov. 15 continued its work to develop the 2023 Farm Bill with a hearing focused on rural development and energy programs. The Higher Blends Infrastructure
November 16, 2022 Read Full Article
A Battle Is Brewing over Biden's Agriculture-Focused Climate Agenda
by Meredith Lee Hill (Politico Pro) A likely Republican takeover of the House and possibly the Senate is threatening Biden’s agriculture-focused climate agenda he plans to tout at COP27. -- President Joe Biden will take to the stage on Friday at
November 11, 2022 Read Full Article
As Hearings for the Farm Bill Ratchet Up, You Can Do 3 Things to Help Agriculture
by Rhonda Brooks (AgWeb) Every five years the U.S. farm bill gets a makeover, and the process is no small undertaking. That’s been the case since the first farm bill, the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1933, was authorized as part of
November 04, 2022 Read Full Article
Ethanol Top Priority for New NCGA President
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Minnesota farmer Tom Haag is the new president of the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), starting his term on October 1. Haag farms corn and soybeans in Eden Valley with his son Nathan and has been farming for over
October 05, 2022 Read Full Article
Agri-Pulse Open Mic Interview: House Ag Ranking Member Glenn "GT" Thompson, R-Pa.
(Agri-Pulse) This week’s Open Mic guest is House Ag Ranking Member Glenn “GT” Thompson. At last week's Farm Progress Show, Thompson offered thoughts on crafting a 2023 farm bill including an opportunity to chair the committee if the GOP wins
September 12, 2022 Read Full Article
#FPS22 Legislative Panel on Outlook for Biofuels
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com)Agri-Pulse editor Sara Wyant moderated a legislative outlook panel of mostly Midwest lawmakers in the Syngenta tent at Farm Progress Show Wednesday. Joining Wyant were (L-R) Reps. Rodney Davis (R-IL); Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA); Vicky Hartzler (R-MO); GT Thompson
September 01, 2022 Read Full Article
Manchin, Schumer Cut Deal on Climate Spending, Including Farm Bill Funds
by Philip Brasher (Agri-Pulse) Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced an agreement with Sen. Joe Manchin on a narrow reconciliation bill that would provide $369 billion in climate-related provisions, including more than $20 billion for farm bill conservation assistance and additional incentives
July 28, 2022 Read Full Article
2023 Farm Bill
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) Congress continued to focus on the 2023 Farm Bill. The House Agriculture Committee held hearings on the forestry title of the bill and the state of credit for young, beginning, and underserved producers . We are tracking the
July 19, 2022 Read Full Article
What’s Your Take on the 2018 Farm Bill?
by Jenna Hoffman (AgWeb) U.S. House Agriculture Committee is seeking feedback on the previous Farm Bill in preparation for the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill. Glenn Thompson (R-Pa.), House Ag republican leader, says farm bill feedback is “critical” with 2023 Farm Bill
July 14, 2022 Read Full Article
Feenstra Focused on Energy Title of Next Farm Bill
by Mark Dorenkamp (Brownfield Ag News) A member of the House Agriculture Committee wants to strengthen the energy title in the next farm bill. Iowa Republican Randy Feenstra tells Brownfield there are so many opportunities for biofuel production and use in Title
July 06, 2022 Read Full Article
NCERC at SIUE Is Leader in Biofuels Research
by Scott Marion (Edwardsville Intelligencer) Nearly 20 years after it opened, the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center (NCERC) at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville continues to make an impact on a national and worldwide level. The NCERC at SIUE is a nationally recognized research
June 08, 2022 Read Full Article
Pathways to Regenerative Agriculture: Farm Policy for the 21st Century --- June 16, 2022 --- ONLINE
The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) invite you to a briefing on regenerative agriculture. Regenerative agriculture, or farming in sync with the local environment and climate, produces multiple economic, climate, and societal benefits. Examples of
June 01, 2022 Read Full Article
Stabenow, Boozman Announce First Senate Farm Bill Hearing
(Agri-Pulse) The Senate Agriculture Committee will hold its first 2023 farm bill hearing later this month in Michigan, Chair Debbie Stabenow and Ranking Member John Boozman announced Wednesday. The highly anticipated hearing entitled “Growing Jobs and Economic Opportunity: 2023 Farm Bill Perspectives,”
April 18, 2022 Read Full Article
Republicans Pounce over Biden Rural Energy Policy
by Marc Heller (E&E News) House Agriculture Committee lawmakers pressed the administration to expand ethanol use in response to high gasoline prices. -- House Agriculture Committee Republicans yesterday bashed the Biden administration’s energy policies, saying the White House focus on long-term
April 06, 2022 Read Full Article
Farm Bill Primer: What Is the Farm Bill?
(Congressional Research Service) The farm bill is an omnibus, multiyear law that governs an array of agricultural and food programs. It provides an opportunity for policymakers to comprehensively and periodically address agricultural and food issues. In addition to developing and
March 22, 2022 Read Full Article
Stabenow and Klobuchar Lead Letter Calling on Biden Administration to Strengthen Federal Support for U.S. Biobased Economy
(U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry) Today, U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) sent a letter to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack asking the administration to take a meaningful step
February 23, 2022 Read Full Article
Farm Bill Takes Aim at ‘Draconian’ Hemp Regulations in Maine
by Julia Bayly (Bangor Daily News) ... The 2018 farm bill may have legalized hemp production, but it’s going to take language in the 2023 farm bill to remove lingering red tape regulating the crop. Those regulations stem from laws governing production of marijuana
February 23, 2022 Read Full Article
Lawmakers Take Early Look at Climate-Critical Farm Bill Conservation Programs
(Solutions from the Land) Members of the House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation and Forestry held a hearing with key USDA officials Wednesday that marks an important first step in the development of a 2023 Farm Bill that can be crafted to
February 03, 2022 Read Full Article
With Assistance, Agriculture Can Help with Climate Change
by Collin Peterson (Minneapolis Star Tribune/Governors' Biofuels Coalition) ... According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), agriculture accounts for just 10% of U.S. CO2 emissions, with livestock accounting for just 4%. On a net basis, agriculture and forestry actually eliminate more
July 07, 2021 Read Full Article
House Ag Panel Hearing Boosts Role of Agriculture in Addressing Climate Change
(Solutions from the Land) The House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation and Forestry held its first hearing of the 117th Congress this week, drawing attention to the enormous potential in farm productivity and profitability offered by conservation agriculture. The panel also highlighted
May 14, 2021 Read Full Article
Can This Unlikely Duo Revive Rural America and Help the Planet? Joe Biden and Tom Vilsack Plan to Take Swift Action on Climate Change Proposals.
by Art Cullen (Storm Lake Times/New York Times) ... Few took carbon sequestration seriously during his previous tenure, a time when “resilient agriculture” had not yet entered the vernacular. But the fundamental conversation in the corridors of power and along
January 28, 2021 Read Full Article
Biden Climate Plan Looks for Buy-in from Farmers Who Are Often Skeptical about Global Warming
by Georgina Gustin (Inside Climate News) The administration has options to cut emissions even if a Republican-led Senate opposes climate-focused agriculture policies. -- ... The U.S. Department of Agriculture, the administration said, “has not historically received the sustained political attention of
January 05, 2021 Read Full Article
Looking Back on 2020, Algae Thrived.
(Algae Biomass Organization) ... Our collective effort has resulted in record-breaking policy support, including: $70 million for algae industry research, development, and demonstration in 2020 Congressional appropriations for DOE’s Bioenergy Technology Office, Office of Fossil Energy, and Office of Science. $110 million
January 04, 2021 Read Full Article
Offtake Agreements – Connecting Hemp Growers with Buyers
by Rachael Z. Ardanuy, Esq. (Lee Enterprises Consulting/Biofuels Digest) The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (2018 Farm Bill) removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act, authorized the production of hemp pursuant to USDA and state regulation, and guarantees that hemp
December 09, 2020 Read Full Article
Can Biden Keep His Promise to Make Farms Climate Friendly?
by Charlie Mitchell (The New Republic) The president-elect will have to overcome major obstacles, including some of his own advisers and campaign proposals. -- Last month, when asked on Pod Save America to name three or four things atop his first-term agenda, Joe Biden mentioned a
November 16, 2020 Read Full Article
Democrats Turn to Rural Issues: Rural, Midwest Democrats Promote Infrastructure and Divergent Strategy From Trump Years
by Chris Clayton (DTN Progressive Farmer) Democratic leaders put a heavy emphasis on rural broadband and health care while criticizing the Trump administration and President Trump directly on trade, biofuels, climate change and the pandemic response. A western Pennsylvania soybean and hay
August 20, 2020 Read Full Article
Parsing the Climate Message
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico's Morning Energy) Night 3 of the Democratic National Convention featured a lengthy 11-minute take on Joe Biden's climate and clean energy strategy that hammered home some of his big themes rather than the wonky details (which you
August 20, 2020 Read Full Article
Farmers, Researchers Agree: COVID-19, Climate Change Revealed Holes in Agriculture System
by Sarah Spicer (Wichita Eagle) To preserve the environment, mitigate climate change and stabilize the U.S. food system, Midwest farmers should diversify their crops and move away from raising corn and soybeans, researchers say. The current crop system, which was founded after
July 29, 2020 Read Full Article
Senators Press USDA for Biofuel Infrastructure Grant Flexibility
(Kansas Ag Connection/US AgNet) U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) are pressing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue to allow businesses that have received grants under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) to use
July 17, 2020 Read Full Article
Algae’s State of Play: The Digest’s 2020 Multi-Slide Guide to ABO’s Algae Industry Updates
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) What companies are investing and working in algae today? What about algae’s biomass production? The big players and partner industries? Initiatives for growing the algae industry? How does the 2018 farm bill dramatically expand support for
July 16, 2020 Read Full Article
Natural Climate Solution Policies For Rural America
(BioCycle Magazine) A new report from Duke University’s Nicholas Institute for Environmental Policy Solutions examines effective strategies to engage America’s farmers, ranchers and forestry stakeholders who are vital to solving climate change. “Rural Investment: Building a Natural Climate Solutions Policy Agenda
June 17, 2020 Read Full Article
7 New Changes in USDA Biorefinery Funding Opportunities – Now is the Time to Take Advantage
by Cynthia Thyfault (Global Biofuture Solutions) The USDA Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program, also known as the “9003” program, provides loan guarantees up to $250 million to assist in the development, construction, and retrofitting of commercial scale
February 14, 2020 Read Full Article
Rural America’s Bioeconomy: The Digest’s 2020 Multi-Slide Guide to Rural Energy for America Program, The Farm Bill
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Between droughts, trade wars, and more, Rural America has had so many challenges, but the U.S. Department of Agriculture is trying to help with various Rural Business-Cooperative Service’s programs including investment of approximately $2 billion across
January 31, 2020 Read Full Article
USDA, DOE Sign Major MOU to Promote Rural Energy, Advance Rural Communities, Domestic Manufacturing.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, U.S. Department of Agriculture Deputy Under Secretary Donald “DJ” LaVoy and U.S. Department of Energy Under Secretary of Energy Mark W. Menezes today (October 24, 2019) announced a Memorandum of Understanding between the two
October 25, 2019 Read Full Article
Algae Could Be Turned into Climate-Friendly Food and Fuel
by Stephanie Manuzak (Yale Climate Connections) The newest farm bill offers support for algae growers. -- ..."Currently companies in the industry are producing plastics, and recyclable foam, and animal feed for cows and chickens and pigs, and aquafeed for shrimp,”
October 03, 2019 Read Full Article
Sizzlin’ Summit: The Digest’s 2019 Multi-Slide Guide to Algae in the 2019 Farm Bill
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) At the hot and happenin’ Algae Biomass Summit in Orlando, Florida,Steve Mayfield, Director at UCSD California Center for Algae Biotechnology and Martin Sabarksy, CEO of Cellana, gave this illuminating introduction of some of the latest
September 26, 2019 Read Full Article
Notice of Solicitation of Applications for the Rural Energy for America Program for Fiscal Year 2020 DEADLINES: October 31, 2019 or March 31, 2020
(Rural Business-Cooperative Service, USDA/Federal Register) The Rural Business-Cooperative Service (the Agency) Notice of Solicitation of Applications (Notice) is being issued prior to passage of a final appropriations act to allow potential applicants time to submit applications for financial assistance under Rural
September 19, 2019 Read Full Article
Biobased Briefing: The Digest’s 2019 Multi-Slide Guide to BIO
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... If you want to get a quick overview of what BIO does, some fascinating statistics they have on the U.S. renewable chemicals market, both current and predicted, and more, check out today’s Multi-Slide Guide. Jim Greenwood,President
July 22, 2019 Read Full Article
Hemp Is Hot! The Digest’s 2019 Multi-Slide Guide to Industrial Hemp
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Holland & Knight, a law firm based in Washington, D.C. and in the know of the fast changing federal regulations and rules, spoke at the Digest’s webinar this week about the road ahead for industrial hemp.
May 23, 2019 Read Full Article
Rural America Is Ready for Some Sort of a New Deal, Preferably Green
by Art Cullen (The Guardian) Here in farming country we have the opportunity to rethink our approach to renewable energy and food production -- ... Meanwhile, we’re losing our precious topsoil and polluting our rivers – killing the Gulf of Mexico in
March 15, 2019 Read Full Article
New USDA Program Supports Innovation in Agriculture
(Algae Biomass Organization) ABO members are among a new generation of innovators that are bringing solutions to global challenges like food production, water use and climate change. As these innovators garner more attention, Congress has just begun to develop more programs
March 11, 2019 Read Full Article
Congress Retains Most Energy Programs in 2018 Farm Bill through Fiscal Year 2023
by Steve Hanson (U.S. Energy Information Administration) On December 20, 2018, the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 (2018 Farm Bill) was signed into law, continuing federal support to a number of renewable electricity and bioenergy-related programs. Authorizations in the 2018 Farm Bill cover
February 03, 2019 Read Full Article
Farmers Fear Another Hit as Trump Shutdown Threatens Ethanol Vow
by Mario Parker and Jennifer A Dlouhy (Bloomberg) Year-round 15% ethanol-gas blend by summer now seen at risk; Shutdown could join trade war in limiting farmer income -- ... The government shutdown that Trump says could last "a long time" without funding for
January 04, 2019 Read Full Article
COP24, 2018 Farm Bill Give Agriculture a Voice, Climate Smart Tools
(Solutions from the Land) As 2018 closes out, advocates for the role agriculture can play in facing a changing climate can feel encouraged by developments on the international and domestic stages. Global climate negotiators in Katowice, Poland, came to a final agreement
December 20, 2018 Read Full Article
Algae Agriculture Triumphs in Farm Bill Compromise
(Algae Biomass Organization) In a historic day for the algae industry, the U.S. Senate Tuesday approved a Farm Bill compromise that dramatically expands federal support for algae agriculture. The bill sets U.S. farm policy through 2023. It is expected to pass the House
December 14, 2018 Read Full Article
Farm Bill Energy Title Contains Climate Tweaks, Slimmer Funding
by Jessie Stolark (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) ... While the bill is largely viewed as a status-quo farm bill, the bill importantly reauthorizes the Energy Title (IX) and contains some new programs and tweaks aimed at helping producers become more
December 14, 2018 Read Full Article
Biofuels and Environmental Groups Commend New Pilot Environmental Quality and Incentive Program in 2018 Farm Bill Report
(Grain Net) The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE), Environmental Entrepreneurs(E2), the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), and the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) thank the Farm Bill conferees for including a new pilot Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) in the 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report to promote and
December 13, 2018 Read Full Article
2018 Farm Bill Helps Rural America Become More Resilient: Rural Economies Crucial to Combating Climate Change
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) The Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) commends the Farm Bill conferees and the House and Senate Agriculture Committees for their tireless commitment to produce a Farm Bill, the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, this year. In a year
December 12, 2018 Read Full Article
In Sioux City, Steve King Talks Farm Bill, Temporary Migrant Workers
by Katie Peikes (Iowa Public Radio) ... The Republican congressman says he’d like to see his legislation in the farm bill that would keep states from regulating production standards for agricultural products sold in interstate commerce by other states. King drafted that
November 27, 2018 Read Full Article
2018 Midterm Elections—Implications for the Bioeconomy
by Jesse Stolark (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) And while the bioeconomy – biofuels, biobased products, chemicals, and more – enjoy bipartisan support, the new political landscape means that the biobased sector and stakeholders still need to be on their
November 10, 2018 Read Full Article
A Superior Value: A Workshop in Anerobic Digestion
by Bill Keba* (Advanced Biofuels USA) October 2, 2018, Annapolis, Maryland. Inside the Doubletree Inn, it was as hectic as the traffic on Route 50. Eightyfive paid attendees were gathering, registering, networking, and hurriedly settling in for the 9:15 start
October 11, 2018 Read Full Article
It’s Past Midnight: Do You Know Where Funds for Your Farm Bill Energy Title Programs Stand?
by Brent Erickson (Biotechnology Innovation Organization/Biofuels Digest) On September 30th, the 2018 Farm Bill officially expired. And while both chambers of Congress passed their respective bills, the final version of the legislation that supports the agricultural sector in the U.S. is
October 10, 2018 Read Full Article
Farm Bill Delay Possible as Deadline Looms
(NAFB News Service/Hoosier Ag Today) The farm bill deadline at the end of the month could pass without a new farm bill or an extension. As the pace of the farm bill committee stalls, leadership says the actual deadline that would
September 20, 2018 Read Full Article
Put Algae in the Farm Bill!
(Algae Biomass Organization) ... Algae are fast becoming a significant component in food and health products, and it is time that this new crop was afforded the support by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that other crops have seen for decades. Thanks
August 30, 2018 Read Full Article
NBB Asks Farm Bill Conferees to Support Biodiesel Programs
(National Biodiesel Board) National Biodiesel Board sends letter reiterating support for passage of a new Farm Bill -- Today (August 16,2018), the National Biodiesel Board sent a letter to leaders of the Farm Bill Conference Committee, reiterating the industry’s strong support for
August 17, 2018 Read Full Article
Leahy among Lawmakers Taking Farm Bill to Conference
(WCAX) Both houses of Congress have passed their respective versions of the Farm Bill, a massive piece of legislation that affects farmers around the country. Now, a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy, will try to come together to
August 07, 2018 Read Full Article
Senate Overwhelmingly Passes Sweeping Farm Bill, Setting up Fight with House
by Caitlin Dewey and Erica Werner (Washington Post) The Senate passed its version of the $428 billion farm bill Thursday, setting up a bitter fight against the House over food stamps, farm subsidies and conservation funding. The Senate measure passed in an
June 29, 2018 Read Full Article
West Fargo Farm Rally Will Try to Capture Part of Trump's Spotlight
by Patrick Springer (West Fargo Pioneer) ... "It's not a protest against President Trump," said Pam Musland, marketing and communication supervisor for the North Dakota Farmers Union. "Our hope is to grab some media attention with all the media in town"
June 27, 2018 Read Full Article
Midwest Trump Voters Losing Faith in His Commitment to Biofuels
(National Biodiesel Board/Biodiesel Magazine) New polling shows that voters across three Midwestern states are disappointed with Trump administration decisions they view as broken promises of support for local agriculture and renewable fuels industries. In a survey of voters in Iowa, Missouri and
June 18, 2018 Read Full Article
Senate Ag Committee Restores 2018 Farm Bill Energy Title Funding
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) On June 13, the Senate ag committee approved the its version of the 2018 Farm Bill with bipartisan support. The legislation includes an amendment offered by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., that restores mandatory funding to Farm
June 14, 2018 Read Full Article
Senators Hope to Reap Farm Bill Amendments
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico's Morning Energy) The Senate Agriculture Committee will take up amendments to the farm bill today, but negotiations were still ongoing as to just which of 186 submitted would get a vote. Here are a few energy highlights
June 13, 2018 Read Full Article
Senate Farm Bill Expands Reach of Energy Title, But Provides Little Funding
by Jesse Stolark (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) On Friday, June 8, the Senate Agriculture Committee released the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018. In contrast to the GOP-only bill that has advanced in the House, the bipartisan Senate farm bill refrains from eliminating
June 08, 2018 Read Full Article
Sen. Tina Smith Tells Senate Agriculture Committee Leaders that Farm Bill Energy Programs Are Key to Reviving Lagging Farm Economy
(Office of Senator Tina Smith (D-MN)) Senator Leads Bipartisan Push for Strong Funding and Focus on Energy As Senate Begins Work on Farm Bill in Coming Days -- As the Senate prepares to begin work on the 2018 Farm Bill, U.S Senator
June 07, 2018 Read Full Article
Farm Bill Energy Programs Have Earned Bipartisan Support
by Brent Erickson (The Hill/Biotechnology Innovation Organization) Since 2002, the farm bill has contained an energy title, with cost-effective programs that support private investment in renewable energy, biobased manufacturing and energy efficiency. The programs are extremely successful in helping businesses create
May 24, 2018 Read Full Article
Farm Bill to Get Second Vote in US House in June: Roll Call
(CNBC/Reuters) The U.S. House of Representatives will vote for a second time on a massive farm bill after the measure was defeated last week, according to a report. The vote on the $867 billion bill will be held on June
May 23, 2018 Read Full Article
Farm Bill Rejection Sinks In: House Ag Leaders Look for New Path Forward After Farm Bill Defeated
by Jerry Hagstrom and Chris Clayton (DTN The Progressive Farmer) The cheers and jeers were all over the spectrum Friday after the House of Representatives failed to pass its version of the farm bill following a raucous debate this week. ... The bill went
May 21, 2018 Read Full Article
Biotechies Riding Herd on Biofuel Policy Uncertainties
by Mikkel Pates (Agweek) Ag technology promoters are pedaling hard for biofuels-friendly policies in Washington, D.C., to make life livable for cash-strapped farmers supplying markets that didn't exist 30 years ago. Erick Lutt, director of industrial and environmental policy for Biotechnology
May 21, 2018 Read Full Article
Biofuel Policy Adds to Agricultural Market Uncertainty
by Pat Westhoff (Columbia Tribune) ... Biofuel policy decisions also have the potential to have large impacts on commodity markets and farm income. Most cars in this country run on a blend of 90 percent gasoline and 10 percent ethanol. At current gasoline
May 18, 2018 Read Full Article
Breaking News: Attack on Farm Bill Clean Energy Programs
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Breaking news arrives from the Ag Energy Coalition regarding the 2018 Farm Bill. Green Capiltol’s Lloyd Ritter writes: Rep. Biggs farm bill amendment was made in order by the Rules Committee last night to eviscerate the
May 18, 2018 Read Full Article
Pelosi Visits Central Iowa Farm, Warns RFS under Attack
by O. Kay Henderson (Radio Iowa) California Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi — the top-ranking Democrat in the U.S. House of Representatives — toured a central Iowa farm early this morning. Pelosi’s visit follows her speech last (Sunday) night at a fundraiser for Polk
May 10, 2018 Read Full Article
Mail Call! Biofuels Write to EPA on Strategy
by Kelsey Tamborrino (Politico's Morning Energy) A coalition of Midwest biofuels associations sent a letter Thursday to EPA asking it to move administrative time and staff away from Renewable Fuel Standard exemptions and instead toward approvals for cellulosic ethanol. "The
May 04, 2018 Read Full Article
Ag Policy Blog -- NFU Opposes House Version of Farm Bil
by Chris Clayton (DTN The Progressive Farmer) In another blow to support for the House version of the farm bill, the National Farmers Union's board of directors early Wednesday passed a unanimous resolution to oppose the bill as it cleared the
April 26, 2018 Read Full Article
Farm Bill Delays, Ethanol Waivers Worry SD Sen. Rounds
by Barry Amundson (Grand Forks Herald) U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D, is concerned about two major issues that can affect farmers and ranchers this year. One is the farm bill that faces an uncertain future as it's set to expire in September. The
April 23, 2018 Read Full Article
House Committee Passes 2018 Farm Bill
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... In a statement, House Ranking Member Collin Peterson, D-Minn., criticized the legislation, calling it “a flawed bill that is the result of a bad nontransparent process.” Cuts to Energy Title programs are among
April 20, 2018 Read Full Article
Draft 2018 Farm Bill Reauthorizes Energy Title Programs
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) On April 12, House Agriculture Committee Chairman K. Michael Conaway, R-Texas, released a draft of the 2018 Farm Bill, officially titled the Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018. The legislation reauthorizes many bioenergy-related programs, but
April 13, 2018 Read Full Article
Rural Issues Growing Jobs and Rural Economies: The Farm Bill’s Energy Title
by Jessie Stolark (Environmental and Energy Study Institute) Since their inception in the 2002 Farm Bill, Energy Title (Title IX) programs have helped farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and rural communities generate thousands of jobs and millions in economic development. The sectors impacted by
April 06, 2018 Read Full Article
Rep. Collin Peterson Voices Support For Minnesota's Ethanol Industry
(Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) Rep. Collin Peterson visited the Chippewa Valley Ethanol Company (CVEC) plant in Benson on March 28 to reiterate his support for Minnesota’s ethanol industry. “Chippewa Valley Ethanol Company is doing some exciting work and are continuing to find new
April 03, 2018 Read Full Article
Ag Policy Blog: Senators Detail Farm Bill Goals
by Chris Clayton (DTN The Progressive Farmer) Leaders of the Senate Agriculture Committee are getting ready to move ahead on drafting a farm bill, ideally in April, and will seek to avoid the rancor over food assistance that has tied up
March 22, 2018 Read Full Article
200 Companies, Trade Groups Urge Congress forward on Farm Bill Energy Title Programs
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, more than 200 companies and trade associations today wrote House and Senate Agriculture Committee leaders, urging them “to reauthorize and maintain stable mandatory funding for energy title programs in the next farm bill reauthorization.” The letter,
March 09, 2018 Read Full Article
The Biobased Economy Is Reaching a Tipping Point
by Brent Erickson (Biotechnology Innovation Organization/Biofuels Digest) ... BIO is the only trade association that advocates for the diverse policies that support the entire biobased economy – the full value chain of technologies and infrastructure to convert renewable, low-carbon, low-cost
February 27, 2018 Read Full Article
Energy Programs Should Be Fully Funded and Enhanced in the 2018 Farm Bill
by Jeremy Gilpin, Jordan Blanchard, and Cindy Thyfault (National Rural Lenders Association/Biofuels Digest) There has been a keen focus the last few weeks for President Trump and the USDA with the release of the Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity Report, President
February 13, 2018 Read Full Article
Alternative Fuel Tax Credits Extended
(Wisconsin Clean Cities) The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, signed into law by President Trump today, included provisions to extend a host of Alternative Fuel Tax Credits. The incentives originally expired on December 31, 2016, but were retroactively extended through
February 10, 2018 Read Full Article
Senate Ag Committee Chairman Expects Farm Bill Vote in March
by P.J. Griekspoor (American Agriculturalist) Sen. Roberts urged farmers to be ready to ‘sound off’ in support of farmer-friendly legislation. -- March will be the month the 2018 Farm Bill comes to the Senate floor. At least that’s the best guess of Senate
February 02, 2018 Read Full Article
Ag Secretary to Roll out Farm Bill & Legislative Principles in Pennsylvania
(Wisconsin State Farmer) U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue will be in Pennsylvania Wednesday, Jan. 24 to roll out the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Bill and legislative principles for 2018. READ MORE Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue pulls back the curtain on the
January 24, 2018 Read Full Article
Take a Glance! Lessons from the RFS
by Anthony Adragna (Politico's Morning Energy) The American Enterprise Institute is out with a report looking at policymaking lessons from the RFS. It argues the biofuels mandate would be better as a rate standard than a volume standard, EPA should issue
December 07, 2017 Read Full Article
Commentary: From Grain Bin to Fuel Tank
by Gary Truitt (Hoosier Ag Today) ... Another aspect of U.S. agricultural exports that is changing is ethanol and its byproduct DDGs. In the past 3 years, U.S. exports of ethanol have grown significantly. Cary Sifferath, Senior Director of Global Programs
December 05, 2017 Read Full Article
BIO Asks for Reauthorization of Section 9003 Program in Farm Bill
(Biotechnology Innovation Organization/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The Biotechnology Innovation Organization and 66 renewable chemical producers recently asked leaders of the House and Senate Committees on Agriculture to reauthorize the Farm Bill’s Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Manufacturing Assistance Program (Section 9003). BIO
October 26, 2017 Read Full Article
Farm Bill Energy Issues Essential for State, Franken Says
by Trey Mewes (Mankato Free Press) As federal officials back off of the Obama-era Clean Power Plan, U.S. Sen. Al Franken believes there's going to be more work to do to ensure farmers and rural communities benefit from renewable energy sources. The
October 12, 2017 Read Full Article
Hearing Focuses on Farm Bill Rural Development, Energy Programs
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) On Sept. 28, the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry held a hearing on the 2018 Farm Bill focused on rural development and energy programs. The committee has now held nine hearings this
October 03, 2017 Read Full Article
The Message Is Clear: We Must Create Demand
by Doug Durante (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Growth above 15 billion gallons will require new markets and widespread understanding of ethanol's carbon-reduction value. -- ... The guaranteed market for 15 billion gallons has been achieved and anything we do beyond that volume will
September 26, 2017 Read Full Article
Democrat Senators Offer Farm Bill Energy Package
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) Senator Al Franken (D-MN), together with Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) have introduced the Agricultural Energy Programs Reauthorization Act of 2017, to reauthorize Title IX programs and funding through 2023. ... According to the Agriculture Energy Coalition,
September 13, 2017 Read Full Article
All Eyes on Energy
by Keith Loria (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The 2014 Farm Bill—otherwise known as the Agricultural Act of 2014—places a larger emphasis on energy than past farm bills have. It includes the most recent version of the Energy Title, which was first
August 28, 2017 Read Full Article
Fischer Expects Fight over Farm Bill
by Liz Morales (Columbus Telegram) Agriculture was a main topic of discussion Wednesday during U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer's listening session in Albion. Fischer said she expects a big fight when the 2018 farm bill is debated in Congress. “The Heritage Foundation
August 24, 2017 Read Full Article
'Imperative' for Fruit and Nut Orchards to Be Included in US Bioenergy Programmes
(Bioenergy Insight) The Almond Alliance of California has called for increased funding from the Farm Bill in order to help develop bioenergy outlets for almond biomass and byproducts in the state. Kelly Covello, president of the Almond Alliance of California, explained to