Key Events in Washington, D.C.:
- 9 a.m. CT – Senate Environment and Public Works Committee hearing, “Improving the Federal Environmental Review and Permitting Processes,”406 Dirksen.
- 9 a.m. CT– Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing to consider the nomination of Lori M. Chavez-DeRemer as labor secretary, 216 Hart.
Other Events
- February 15-22 — National FFA Week! Today is Advisor Appreciation Day!
- Grain Bin Safety Week
HERE ARE TODAY’S TOP FIVE HEADLINES:
FARM BILL DEADLINE LOOMS
Ag lawmakers have until late September to finalize a new five-year farm bill. While that deadline is still months away, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins is already putting it at the top of her agenda. Rollins expressed optimism about working with key legislators like Senator Klobuchar and Senator Bozeman to get it across the finish line. However, hurdles like SNAP and funding for climate-smart agriculture could pose challenges.
FARM ACTION’S FRAUD ALLEGATION
The group “Farm Action” is calling for an investigation into alleged fraud within the checkoff programs, which they claim cost farmers over a billion dollars annually. They accuse these programs of lacking transparency and oversight. Over 60 farm groups have called for reform, and President Trump’s administration has already directed cuts across government agencies, which may impact the investigation.
ZOETIS TAKES STEP AGAINST AVIAN FLU
Animal health company Zoetis is one step closer to victory in the battle against high-path avian flu. The USDA has issued a conditional license for a vaccine to be used on chickens. Zoetis started working on this vaccine in early 2022, and now with USDA approval, Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley is hopeful that Ag Secretary Rollins can help resolve issues around exporting vaccinated poultry.
NEW WORLD SCREWWORM THREAT IN MEXICO
A new case of New World Screwworm has been detected in Mexico’s Tabasco state, but the USDA says cattle imports won’t be restricted. After lifting a November ban on imports, USDA and Mexican officials put new protocols in place to ensure animal health before importation. Despite this confidence, the recent case still caused concerns, driving feeder cattle futures higher in the Chicago Mercantile Exchange.
BEEKEEPERS BUZZING OVER THEFTS
Bee theft is on the rise as beekeepers face their highest losses in 14 years, with over 50% of managed colonies wiped out last year. As demand for bees soars in California’s almond-growing regions, the thefts are hitting harder. In response, the California State Beekeepers Association is fighting back with a new theft prevention program, using AirTags, marked boxes, and cameras to protect their buzzing assets.
