Soy mania among U.S. farmers a risk, even if China makes large purchases
If farmers rush into soybeans this spring, they could produce too much of the oilseed even if China, as required under the “phase one” agreement, makes large purchases of agricultural exports, according to a university economist.
Trump proposals for SNAP cuts add up to $230 billion, says think tank
The Trump administration is proceeding with regulations that would reduce Supplementary Nutrition Assistance Program enrollment and cut spending by $50 billion over 10 years, said the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities on Tuesday.
TODAY’S QUICK HITS
The breakdown of rural roads (New York Times): Rural roads bear a disproportionate amount of use compared to the local population, but face a funding deficit that has left many in disrepair.
DFA to buy Dean (DFA): The dairy co-op Dairy Farmers of America reached an agreement to buy a “substantial portion” of the bankrupt milk processor Dean Foods’ assets. The Department of Justice is looking into the deal.
Possible new dairy rules in Oregon (Statesman Journal): The Oregon legislature is considering a bill that would tighten requirements for new dairy CAFOs, but some advocates say it doesn’t go far enough.
Sierra snowpack half of normal (Sacramento Bee): Snowpack in the Sierra Nevadas, the source of 30 percent of California’s water supply, is 53 percent of normal for this time of the year, raising fears of tight water supplies this summer and dry conditions that would fuel wildfires.
Green groups challenge WOTUS replacement (Turtle Island): Thirteen conservation groups filed a notice of intent to sue the Trump administration over its Navigable Waters Protection Rule that would remove federal protection from half of U.S. wetlands and millions of miles of streams.
Animal welfare records online again (APHIS): As directed by Congress, the USDA will restore on its searchable database the animal welfare records that were removed in January 2017.
