Wary Democrats, Low Ag Surplus – December 6, 2018

Lowest ag surplus due to trade war

Wary Democrats slow path for USDA civil rights nominee The Senate Agriculture Committee cleared three USDA nominees for a floor vote on Wednesday, but significant Democratic opposition could prevent a confirmation vote this year on Naomi Earp, President Trump’s pick to be the agency’s assistant secretary for civil rights. Trade… Continue reading

Egg Law, Farm Subsidies – December 5, 2018

California egg law bodes well for future

Congress sets the rules but farm subsidies are ‘a great investment,’ says Perdue Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue steered clear of a farm bill squabble on Tuesday that has Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley considering a vote against the bill because it would relax crop subsidy limits. DOJ’s stance on California egg… Continue reading

Pork Prices, China Trade – December 4, 2018

Pork prices affected by trade

White House expects immediate action by China on ag trade Taking a “show me” stance, White House economic adviser Larry Kudlow said on Monday he expected China to roll back tariffs on U.S. farm exports promptly and begin trade reforms in line with the trade deal struck by President Trump… Continue reading

Farm Bill, Income, Nutria Invasion – December 3, 2018

Nutria Invasion in California

The farm-income bump is the bailout by Trump U.S. farm income will be slightly higher than expected this year due chiefly to $4.7 billion in Trump tariff payments that will buffer the impact of trade war on commodity prices, says the USDA. With the bailout, farmers are forecast to collect… Continue reading