California Ag Network

Category: Ag Economics

  • April USDA Lending Rates for Ag Producers

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced loan interest rates for April 2024, which are effective April 1, 2024. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide important access to capital to help agricultural producers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs.

    “I encourage our lenders and borrowers alike to work with our local offices and our cooperators to capitalize fully on the existing flexibilities in these important programs,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux.

    Operating, Ownership and Emergency Loans FSA offers farm ownership, operating and emergency loans with favorable interest rates and terms to help eligible agricultural producers, whether multi-generational, long-time, or new to the industry, obtain financing needed to start, expand or maintain a family agricultural operation. For many loan options, FSA sets aside funding for underserved producers, including, beginning, women, American Indian or Alaskan Native, Asian, Black or African American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, and Hispanic farmers and ranchers.

    Interest rates for Operating and Ownership loans for April 2024 are as follows:

    FSA also offers guaranteed loans through commercial lenders at rates set by those lenders.

    To access an interactive online, step-by-step guide through the farm loan process, visit the Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov.

    Commodity and Storage Facility Loans      Additionally, FSA provides low-interest financing to producers to build or upgrade on-farm storage facilities and purchase handling equipment and loans that provide interim financing to help producers meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are low.  Funds for these loans are provided through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and are administered by FSA.

      • Three-year loan terms: 4.375%
      • Five-year loan terms: 4.250%
      • Seven-year loan terms: 4.250%
      • Ten-year loan terms: 4.250%
      • Twelve-year loan terms: 4.250%

    Farm Loan Program Process Improvement   FSA has a significant initiative underway to streamline and automate the Farm Loan Program customer-facing business process. For the over 26,000 producers who submit a direct loan application annually, FSA has made various improvements, including:

    • The Online Loan Application, an interactive, guided application that is paperless and provides helpful features, including an electronic signature option, the ability to attach supporting documents, such as tax returns, complete a balance sheet and build a farm operating plan.
    • The Loan Assistance Tool that provides customers with an interactive online, step-by-step guide to identifying the direct loan products that may be a fit for their business needs and to understanding the application process.
    • An online direct loan repayment feature that relieves borrowers from the necessity of calling, mailing, or visiting a local Service Center to pay a loan installment.
    • A simplified direct loan paper application, reduced from 29 pages to 13 pages.

    More Information   Since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed by President Biden in August 2022, USDA’s Farm Service Agency has provided approximately $2.1 billion in immediate assistance to more than 39,000 distressed borrowers. The deadline to request assistance through the Inflation Reduction Act Assistance for Distressed Borrowers and Discrimination Financial Assistance Program has passed. Any applications submitted before the program deadlines are currently under review. Visit the related program webpages for more information.

    To learn more about FSA programs, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center. Producers can also prepare maps for acreage reporting as well as manage farm loans and view other farm records data and customer information by logging into their farmers.gov account. If you don’t have an account, sign up today.

  • Meat Foundation Scholarship Applications Now Open

    The Meat Foundation is now accepting undergraduate and graduate scholarship applications for the 2024-2025 academic year. The deadline for applications is May 31, 2024.

    The Meat Foundation will be awarding one $10,000 Barry Carpenter Scholarship, along with several $5,000 scholarships. These scholarships are merit-based and open to all undergraduate and graduate students enrolled at an accredited university who are majoring in animal, meat, poultry, or food sciences; enrolled in a culinary arts program; or are interested in pursuing a career in the meat industry.

    “The Meat Foundation looks forward to honoring the academic excellence and leadership of students pursuing a career in animal agriculture,” said Al Almanza, Chairman of the Meat Foundation. “We’re excited to invest in students who will strive to use innovative and creative strategies to promote continuous improvement in the industry.”

    Applications require department support, and a transcript must be uploaded at the time of application.  Please review the undergraduate and graduate eligibility and rules before beginning the application form. Additional details are available on the Scholarship website.

    The Meat Foundation’s scholarship program is supported by Meat Institute members and industry allies. Donations, which are tax deductible, should be sent to NAMI Scholarship Foundation, 1150 Connecticut Ave., NW 12th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20036.  Questions regarding the Meat Foundation scholarship program should be directed to KatieRose McCullough, Ph.D., MPH at kmccullough@meatinstitute.org.

    About the Meat Foundation

    The Meat Foundation is a non-profit research, education and information foundation established to identify strategies that enable the meat and poultry industry to produce better, safer products and to operate more efficiently. The Foundation engages leaders from industry, academia and government to advance scientific understanding related to food safety, nutrition, the environment, animal welfare and worker safety, among other issues. The Foundation does not engage in policymaking, but provides scientific evidence and context to governmental agencies as needed. The Foundation also provides resources to consumers to empower them with information to select and prepare safe and nutritious meat and poultry products for their families.

  • Alltech Global Feed Production Survey Data and Influential Trends in Ag

    Global animal feed production remained steady in 2023 at 1.29 billion metric tons (BMT), a slight decrease of 2.6 million metric tons (MMT) — or 0.2% — from 2022’s estimates, according to the  2024 Agri-Food Outlook, released by Alltech. The annual survey, now in its 13th year, includes data from 142 countries and more than 27,000 feed mills.

    The overall lower demand for feed was due, in part, to the more efficient use of feed made possible by intensive production systems that focus on using animal nutrition, farm management and other technologies to lower feed intake while producing the same amount of protein, or more. A slowdown in the overall production of animal protein, in response to tight margins experienced by many feed and animal protein companies, also contributed to lower feed demand. Changing consumption patterns caused by inflation and dietary trends, higher production costs and geopolitical tensions also influenced feed production in 2023.

    Top 10 countries:

    The top 10 feed-producing countries are China (262.71 MMT, +0.76%), the U.S. (238.09 MMT, ‑1.13%), Brazil (83.32 MMT, +1.84%), India (52.83 MMT, +13.43%), Mexico (40.42 MMT, +0.02%), Russia (35.46 MMT, +3.83%), Spain (27.53 MMT, -11.88%), Vietnam (24.15 MMT, -9.63%), Japan (23.94 MMT, -1.15%) and Türkiye (23.37 MMT, -11.48%). Together, the top 10 countries produced 63.1% of the world’s feed production (same as in 2022), and almost half of the world’s global feed production is concentrated in four countries: China, the U.S., Brazil and India.

    Notable species results and outlook:

    • Poultry experienced an increase in broiler feed production (385.04 MMT, +13.10 MMT, +3.5%) and remained steady with a slight increase for layers (170.88 MMT, +0.01 MMT, 0%).
      • Broiler feed now accounts for 29.9% of the total feed tonnage in the world thanks to a 3.5% increase in overall tonnage in 2023. While this growth was not uniform across all regions, the poultry sector is poised to keep holding strong in 2024 thanks to a combination of regional successes and global market dynamics. Some of the biggest factors that will contribute to the resilience of the broiler sector include reduced costs for inputs, such as feed and energy, and increases in margins and profitability.
      • For layers, there are industry-wide efforts to optimize feed efficiency and to keep pace with changing dietary trends and new purchasing power. Some markets around the globe were significantly impacted by macroeconomic challenges and disease outbreaks, which can disrupt production cycles. Still, the general outlook for the layer industry remains positive thanks to its resilience in the face of difficult circumstances, when other protein sectors often struggle to adapt.
      • The poultry sector is poised for continued strength, driven by a blend of regional successes and global market dynamics. The broiler forecast remains optimistic thanks to lower input costs, increased industrial margins and shifting consumer behaviors. For layers, challenges persist, but there are pockets of resilience and growth.
      • The global pig feed production sector faced many challenges in 2023, which led to an overall decrease in pig feed production of 1.23% (320.80 MMT, -4.01 MMT).
        • Latin America stood out as the only region that achieved an increase in pig feed production in 2023, while Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America — which have traditionally been the top pig feed-producing regions in the world — all faced challenges. African swine fever (ASF) continues to wreak havoc on pig production in China and Southeast Asia, where repopulation efforts are slowly proceeding.
        • The trends highlight the complex relationship between economic factors, supply dynamics and disease management in the global pig feed industry. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for sustaining animal agriculture and ensuring food security.
        • Dairy feed tonnage decreased by 2.3% (126.23 MMT, -2.28%), primarily due to the high cost of feed combined with low milk prices, which led farmers to make strategic adjustments that included reducing their cow numbers and/or relying more on non-commercial feed sources.
          • In Europe, dairy producers will continue to grapple with stricter environmental policies in the years ahead, and they will need to find new ways to continue growing.
          • Asia-Pacific managed to buck the downward trend and emerged as the only region that increased its dairy feed tonnage in 2023. This growth was fueled by a continued increase in the consumption of milk products there, as well as an expansion of feed production in co-operatives.
          • This shift reflects the delicate balance between economic factors and the need to sustain dairy production. Lower feed costs and higher milk prices would help right the ship.
          • Beef feed production decreased by 4.36% (117.49 MMT, -5.35 MMT) globally — the most pronounced downward change among all species sectors last year. Changes in cattle cycles in the United States and stricter sustainability policies in Europe had major impacts, with the Asia-Pacific beef sector notably surpassing Europe’s in 2023.
            • The substantial decline in North America was the result of lingering droughts and high production costs, among other issues.
            • While the European and North American beef industries are expected to continue declining in 2024, growth is expected in China, Brazil and Australia — highlighting the complex dynamics and landscape of beef feed production around the world.
            • The aquaculture sector experienced a decline of 4.4% (52.09 MMT, -2.42 MMT).
              • This decline was driven in part by a significant drop in China’s supply of aqua feed due to lower fish prices, which had a far-reaching impact.
              • Latin America grew by 0.27 MMT (3.87%). Despite adverse weather conditions in that region, the demand for aqua products is still strong in Latin America, which helped aqua producers there remain resilient.
                • The global pet feed industry continues to grow, albeit at a slower pace of 0.74% (34.96 MMT, +0.26 MMT) in 2023. Demand for high-quality pet products and services remains high from pet owners who want only the best for their animal companions.
                  • The Latin American and North American markets were the primary drivers of this growth, with the pet food sector in North America surpassing Europe’s this year.
                  • Europe was the only market experiencing a decline in pet food production in 2023. Supply-chain disruptions and inflationary pressures were the key factors contributing to this decrease.
                • The equine feed industry experienced a decrease of 3.9% (7.98 MMT, -0.32 MMT) in 2023.
                  • The top challenges in the equine sector include high labor and material prices.
                  • The top technologies impacting the sector are biosecurity, microchipping, genetics and nutritional solutions.
                  • Survey respondents said the biggest opportunities for nutritional solutions are gut health management and feed efficiency.
                  • Equine feed is expected to decrease both in price and in volume during the coming year.

                 

                Notable regional results:

                • North America saw a decrease of 2.8 MMT (259.26 MMT, -1.1%), with beef feed tonnage down significantly. The pig and dairy sectors also slipped slightly, but the broiler, layer and pet sectors more than made up the difference. Feed tonnage in the broiler sector was up nearly 2.9%.

                 

                To access more data and insights from the 2024 Alltech Agri-Food Outlook, including an interactive global map, visit alltech.com/agri-food-outlook.

                About Alltech:

                Founded in 1980 by Irish entrepreneur and scientist Dr. Pearse Lyons, Alltech delivers smarter, more sustainable solutions for agriculture. Our diverse portfolio of products and services improves the health and performance of plants and animals, resulting in better nutrition for all and a decreased environmental impact. A global leader in the agriculture industry. The Alltech team produces specialty ingredients, premix supplements, feed and biologicals, backed by science and an unparalleled platform of services. Headquartered just outside of Lexington, Kentucky, USA, Alltech serves customers in more than 120 countries, has five bioscience centers, and operates more than 80 manufacturing facilities across the globe. For more information, visit alltech.com, or join the conversation on Facebook, X and LinkedIn.

  • RNAi Technology: Another Biological Tool in the IPM Arsenal

    As the food production faces the persistent threat of endemic and invasive pests, researchers continue to develop new technologies and strategies for protecting crops from these threats.  One such new technology is RNA interference (RNAi) with targeted mechanisms towards specific pests.  RNAi can be used as a trait in a crop or as a sprayable product against the target pest.  Before delving further into this here are a few basic details of this biological process that will help understand the RNAi mechanism.

    Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in the chromosomes of most living organisms contains genetic code for making proteins that are essential for various biological processes.  Ribonucleic acid (RNA) carries the genetic code from DNA to the protein-making factories within the cell known as ribosomes.  DNA has two strands of nucleotides (sets of deoxyribose sugar with nitrogenous bases connected by a phosphate group) whereas RNA has only one strand of nucleotides.  RNA also differs from DNA in having ribose sugar, instead of deoxyribose, and a different kind of nitrogenous base.  The purpose of RNA is to transfer the genetic code from DNA as amino acids are made in ribosomes.  A chain of amino acids makes a specific protein.  Examples of proteins in insects include juvenile hormone responsible for development and reproductive maturation, ecdysone responsible for molting and metamorphosis, digestive enzymes like amylases, glycosidases, lipases, and proteases, and esterases that are important in metabolizing various compounds that regulate behavior, development, insecticidal resistance, and other processes.

    RNAi involves silencing the expression of a specific gene by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) pieces (either small interfering RNA or microRNA each containing about 21-23 nucleotide pairs) attaching to messenger RNA (mRNA) carrying the code from DNA and thus interfering with the production of a specific protein.  RNAi is also known as post-transcriptional gene silencing because the silencing is done after the DNA code is transcribed to mRNA.  RNAi is a natural phenomenon that helps organisms to defend against infections or regulate gene expression.  For example, when there is a viral infection, cells activate RNAi to destroy virus particles.  RNAi-based therapies are currently used in the medical field to treat cancer and neurological issues and to regulate oxalic acid in urine or the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in blood.

    RNAi can be used in agriculture for improving yield or quality, imparting abiotic stress tolerance or pest resistance, and incorporating other desirable traits or as biopesticides in crop protection (Bharathi et al., 2023; Chaudhary et al., 2024).  Many research studies have been exploring the RNAi potential in agriculture for decades (Fletcher et al., 2020).  Modifying plant height in apple (Zhao et al., 2016), rice (Qiao et al., 2007), and tomato (Cheng et al., 202); imparting drought, salt, and heat tolerance in cotton (Abdurakhmonov et al., 2014), abiotic stress tolerance in cereal crops (Dubrovna et al., 2023), and cold tolerance in tomato (Jiao et al., 2024); imparting resistance to blast (Magnaporthe grisea) and leaf blight (Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae) in rice (Jiang et al., 2009), citrus canker (Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri) in citrus (Enrique et al., 2011), late blight (Phytophthora infestans) in potato (Eschen-Lippold et al., 2012), Fusarium head and seedling blight (Fusarium graminearum) in wheat (Cheng et al., 2015), soybean mosaic virus in soybean (Kim et al., 2016); imparting resistance to bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) in cotton (Mao et al., 2007 and 2011) and resistance to brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens) in rice (Zha et al., 2011); and imparting resistance to root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) in tomato (Dutta et al., 2015) and soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines) in soybean (Guo et al., 2015) are some of the examples of improving crop traits.

    The first RNAi crop in the United States is corn (SmartStax® PRO) against the western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera) containing both Bacillus thuringiensis toxins and RNAi technology (Head et al., 2017).  With its ability to resist both below- and above-ground lepidopteran pests, this hybrid is an important IPM tool.  This hybrid is also available in Canada for cultivation, and grain and products from the hybrid are approved for consumption in the European Union.  RNAi-based crops are not considered genetically modified organisms (GMOs) because they do not contain a foreign gene to express a particular protein like GMOs but use a natural mechanism to silence a particular gene.

    In addition to adding desirable traits to crops, RNAi has also been explored or developed for treating plants against pests and diseases.  While RNAi crops use the host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) method, RNAi biopesticides use the spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS).  SIGS has been explored for controlling Fusarium graminearum in barley (Koch et al., 2016), sucking and/or stem-boring insects in multiple crops (Li et al. 2015; Hunter and Wintermantel, 2021; Jain et al., 2022), hawthorn spider mite (Amphitetranychus viennensis) in fruit trees and woody ornamentals (Yang et al., 2023).  The first sprayable formulation of RNAi-based biopesticide is CalanthaTM from GreenLight Biosciences against the Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Rodrigues et al., 2021).  The active ingredient is a dsRNA molecule known as Ledprona (Leptinotarsa decemlineata-specific recombinant double-stranded interfering Oligonucleotide GS2).  It belongs to a new class of insecticides under group 35 as an RNAi-mediated target suppressor.  Applied as a foliar spray, Ledprona suppresses the gene that produces proteasome subunit beta type-5 (PSBT5) in CPB and arrests insect feeding within 2-3 days after it is ingested leading to the death of the pest.  PSBT5 is an essential protein important in maintaining cellular protein quality by degrading damaged or misfolded proteins or proteins that are no longer needed.

    RNAi can also be used to protect honey bees from the Israeli Acute Paralysis Virus (Hunter et al., 2010) and the Varroa mite (Garbian et al., 2012).  In field studies, honey bee populations and honey production increased when bees were fed dsRNA for the virus in the presence of virus in the colonies (Hunter et al., 2010).  The ectoparasite Varroa mite is a major threat to the honey bee colony health and its management is a significant challenge.  When honey bees ingest the mite-specific dsRNA that silences the calcium ion-binding protein known as calmodulin, the dsRNA is transmitted to the Varroa mite feeding on the hemolymph of the bees resulting in mite mortality (Garbian et al., 2012).

    As with any new technology, it is important to consider the impact of RNAi on the environment and non-target organisms.  Environmental risks and regulatory aspects of RNAi-based products have been reviewed in various reports (Liu et al., 2021; De Schutter et al., 2022; Christiaens et al., 2022).  Microbial activity, UV radiation, and other environmental conditions degrade dsRNA and they are generally less stable in the environment, especially under the field conditions where they are used (Bachman et al., 2020).  Studies showed that dsRNA degraded within two days in soil and 1-3 days in the aquatic environment (Dubelman et al., 2014; Fishcer et al., 2017).  Chen et al. (2023) reported that while an RNAi-based biopesticide was highly effective against the 28-spotted ladybeetle (Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata), a pest of solanaceous crops, it had no non-target effect on the predatory lady beetle Propylea japonica.  Similarly, studies showed that the dsRNA developed for controlling Varroa mite were safe for honey bees (Tan et al., 2016; Vélez et al., 2016) and the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexxippus) whose calmodulin mRNA has a slight match to the Varroa-active dsRNA (Krishnan et al., 2021).

    With regards to Ledprona, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that it has minimal human and environmental risks due to low application rates, rapid microbial degradation in the environment, and physiological barriers and degradation mechanisms in mammals.  EPA also gave Ledprona a “No Effect” determination according to the Endangered Species Act.

    Environmental instability is one of the concerns for SIGS but formulation technology can address this problem.  Instead of spraying naked dsRNA, formulating it with layered double hydroxide clay nanoparticles known as BioClay significantly extended the stability of dsRNA.  Spraying dsRNA in BioClay provided protection against pepper mild mottle virus and cucumber mosaic virus at least for 20 days and dsRNA was detected on the leaves 30 days after application (Mitter et al., 2017).  Similarly, spraying BioClay-formulated dsRNA 5 days before exposing to virus-containing green peach aphids (Myzus persicae) offered protection against the bean common mosaic virus in cowpea and benth (Nicotiana benthamiana) (Worrall et al., 2019).  In a more recent study, BioClay-formulated dsRNA against gray mold (Botrytis cenerea) increased disease protection from 1 week to 3 weeks on leaves and 5 days to 10 days on fruit (Niño-Sánchez et al., 2022).

    Arthropod pests and pathogens are resilient and rapidly evolving organisms and can develop resistance to RANi technology just like they develop to pesticides or transgenic crops.  Whether it is HIGS or SIGS, avoiding heavy reliance on one tool and adopting integrated pest management (IPM) and resistance management strategies is crucial even when using RNAi.  An IPM strategy that takes advantage of multiple tools will minimize the risk of resistance development while achieving desired pest suppression. — By Surendra Dara, Oregon State University Extension Entomologist

    References

    Abdurakhmonov, I. Y., Z. T. Buriev, S. Saha, J. N. Jenkins, A. Abdukarimov and A. E. Pepper.  2014.  Phytochorme RNAi enhances major fibre quality and agronomic traits of the cotton Gossypium hirsutum L.  Nat. Comm. 5: 3062. https://doi.org/10.1038/ncomms4062.

    Backman, P., J. Fischer, Z. Song, E. Urbanczyk-Wochniak and G. Watson.  2020.  Environmental fate and dissipation of applied dsRNA in soil, aquatic systems, and plants.  Front. Plant Sci. 11: 508351. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2020.00021.

    Bharathi, J. K., R. Anandan, L. K. Benjamin, S. Muneer, and M.A.S. Prakash.  2023.  Recent trends and advances of RNA interference (RNAi) to improve agricultural crops and enhance their resilience to biotic and abiotic stresses.  Plant Physiol. Biochem. 194: 600-618.

    Chaudhary, D., A. S. Jeena, S. Gaur, R. Raj, S. Mishra, O. P. Gupta, and M. R. Meena.  2024.  Advances in RNA interference for plant functional genomics: unveiling traits mechanisms, and future directions.  Appl. Biochem. Biotechnol. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12010-023-04850-x.

    Chen, S. X. Luo, S. Nanda, C. Yang, Z. Li, Y. Zhang, X. Zhou and H. Pan.  2023.  RNAi-based biopesticides against 28-spotted ladybeetle Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata does not harm the insect predator Propylea japonica.  J. Agric. Food Chem. 71: 3373-3384.

    Cheng, W., S. Yin, Y. Tu, H. Mei, Y. Wang and Y. Yang.  2020.  SICAND1, encoding cullin-associated NEdd8-dissociated protein 1, regulates plant height, flowering time, seed germination, and root architecture in tomato.  Plant Mol. Biol. 102: 537-551. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11103-020-00963-7.

    Cheng, W., X.-S. Song, H.-P. Li, L.-H. Cao, K. Sun, X.-L. Qiu, Y.-B. Xu, P. Yang, T. Huang, J.-B. Zhang, B. Qu and Y.-C. Liao.  2015.  Host-induced gene silencing of an essential chitin synthase gene confers durable resistance to Fusarium head blight and seedling blight in wheat.  Plant Biotechnol. J. 13: 1335-1345. https://doi.org/10.1111/pbi.12352.

    Christiaens, O., J. Sweet, T. Dzhambazova, I. Urru, G. Smagghe, K. Kostov and S. Arpaia.  2022.  Implementation of RNAi-based arthropod pest control: environmental risks, potential for resistance and regulatory considerations.  J. Pest Sci. 95: 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10340-021-01439-3.

    De Schutter, K., C.N.T. Taning, L. Van Daele, E.J.M. Van Damme, P. Dubruel and G. Smagghe.  2022.  RNAi-based biocontrol products: market status, regulatory aspects, and risk assessment.  Front. Insect Sci. 1: 818037. https://doi.org/10.3389/finsc.2021.818037.

    Dubelman, S., J. Fischer, F. Zapata, K. Huizinga, C. Jiang, J. Uffman, S. Levine and D. Carson.  2014.  Environmental fate of double-stranded RNA in agricultural soils. PLoS One. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0093155.

    Dubrovna, O. V., S. I Mykhalska, and A. G. Komisarenko.  2023.  Use of RNA interference technology for improving economically valuable traits of cereal crops.  Cytology and Genetics 57: 587-610.

    Dutta, T. K., P. K. Papolu, P. Banakar, D. Choudhary, A. Sirohi and U. Rao.  2015.  Tomato transgenic plants expressing hairpin construct of a nematode protease gene conferred enhanced resistance to root-knot nematodes.  Front. Microbiol. 6: 260. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2015.00260.

    Enrique, R., F. Siciliano, M. A. Favaro, N. Gerhardt, R. Roeschlin, L. Rigano and M. R. Marano.  2011.  Novel demonstration of RNAi in citrus reveals importance of citrus callose synthase in defence against Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri.  Plant Biotehnol. J. 9: 394-407. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-7652.2010.00555.x.

    Eschen-Lippold, L., R. Ladgraf, U. Smolka, S. Schulze, M. Heilmann, I. Heilmann, G. Hause and S> ROsahl.  2012.  Activation of defense against Phytophthora infestans in potato by down-regulation of syntaxin gene expression.  The Ne Phytologist 193: 985-996. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-8137.2011.04024.x.

    Fischer, J. R., F. Zapata, S. Dubelman, G. M. Mueller, J. P. Uffman, C. Jiang, P. D. Jensen and S. L. Levine.  2017.  Aquatic fate of a double-stranded RNA in a sediment-water system following an over-water application.  Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 36: 727-734. https://doi.org/10.1002/etc.3585.

    Fletcher, S. J., P. T. Reeves, B. T. Hoang, and N. Mitter.  2020. A perspective on RNAi-based biopesticides.  Frontiers in Plant Science 11: 51. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2020.00051.

    Garbian, Y., E. Maori, H. Kalev, S. Shafir and I. Sela.  2012.  Bidirectional transfer of RNAi between honey bee and Varroa destructor: Varroa gene silencing reduces Varroa population.  PLoS Pathogens 8: e1003035. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.ppat.1003035.

    Guo, X., D. Chronis, C. M. De La Torre, J. Smeda, X. Wang and M. G. Mitchum.  2015.  Enhanced resistance to sybean cyst nematode Heterodera glycines in transgenic soybean by silencing putative CLE receptors.  Plant Biotechnol. J. 13: 801-810. https://doi.org/10.1111/pbi.12313.

    Head, G. P., M. W. Carroll, S. P. Evans, D. M. Rule, A. R. Willse, T. L. Clark, N. P. Storer, R. D. Flannagan, L. W. Samuel and L. J. Meinke.  2017.  Evaluation of SmartStax and SmartStax PRO maize against western corn rootworm and northern corn rootworm: efficacy and resistance management.  Pest Manag. Sci. 73: 1883-1899.  https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.4554.

    Hunter, W., J. Ellis, D. vanEngelsdorp, J. Hayes, D. Westervelt, E. Glick, M. Williams, I. Sela, E. Maori, J. Pettis, D. Cox-Foster and N. Paldi.  2010.  Large-scale field application of RNAi technology reducing Israili Acute Paralysis Virus disease in honey bees (Apis mellifera, Hymenoptera: Apidae). PLoS Pathogens 6: e1001160. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.ppat.1001160.

    Hunter, W. B. and W. M. Wintermantel.  2021.  Optimizing efficient RNAi-mediated control of hemipteran pests (psyllids, leafhoppers, whitefly): modified pyrimidines in drRNA triggers.  Plants 10: 1782. https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10091782.

    Jain, R. G., S. J. Fletcher, N. Manzie, K. E. Robinson, P. Li, E. Lu, C. A. Brosnan, Z. P. Xu and N. Mitter.  2022. Foliar application of clay-delivered RNA interference for whitefly control.  Nature Plants 8: 535-548.

    Jiang, C.-J., M. Shimono, S. Maeda, H. Inoue, M. Mori, M. Hasegawa, S. Sugano and H. Takatsuji.  2009.  Suppression of the rice fatty-acid desaturase gene OsSSI2 enhances resistance to blast and leaf blight diseases in rice.  Mol. Reprod. Dev. 22: 820-829. https://doi.org/10.1094/MPMI-22-7-0820.

    Jiao, C., J. Sun. and Y. Wei.  2024.  SlWRKY31 enhances chilling tolerance by interacting with SlSIZ1 in tomato fruit.  Postharvest Biol. Technol. 207: 112631. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.postharvbio.2023.112631.

    Kim, H. J., M. J. Kim, J. H. Pak, H. H. Im, D. H. Lee, K. H. Ki, and Y. S. Chung.  2016.  RNAi-mediated soybean mosaic virus (SMV) resistance of a Korena soybean cultivar.  Plant Biotechnol. Reports 10: 257-267. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11816-016-0402-y.

    Koch, A., D. Biedenkopf, A. Furch, L. Weber, O. Rossbach, E. Abdellatef, L. Linicus, J. Johannsmeier, L. Jelonek, A. Goesmann, V. Cardoza, J. McMillan, T. Mentzel and K.-H. Kogel.  2016.  An RNAi-based control of Fusarium graminearum infections through spraying of long dsRNAs involves a plant passage and is controlled by the fungal silencing machinery.  PLoS Pathogens 12: e1005901. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.ppat.1005901.

    Krishnan, N., M. J. Hall, R. L. Hellmich, J. R. Coats and S. P. Bradbury.  2021.  Evaluating toxicity of Varroa mite (Varroa destructor)-active dsRNA to monarch butterfly (Danaus Plexippus) larvae.  PLoS One 16: e0251884. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0251884.

    Li, H. R. Guan, H. Guo and X. Miao.  2015.  New insights into an RNAi approach for plant defence against piercing-sucking and stem-borer insect pests.  Plant, Cell & Environment 38: 2277-2285. https://doi.org/10.1111/pce.12546.

    Liu, S., S. Geng, A. Li, Y. Mao and L. Mao.  2021.  RNAi technology for plant protection and its application in wheat.  aBIOTECH 2: 365-374. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42994-021-00036-3.

    Mao, Y. B., W. J. Cai, J. W. Wang, G. J. Hong, X. Y. Tao, L. J. Wang and X. Y. Chen.  2007.  Silencing a cotton bollworm P450 monooxygenase gene by plant-mediated RNAi impairs larval tolerance of gossypol.  Nat. Biotehnol. 25: 1307-1313. https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt1352.

    Mao, Y. B., X. Y. Tao, X. Y. Xue, L. J. Wang and X. Y. Chen.  2011.  Cotton plants expressing CYP6AE14 double-stranded RNA show enhanced resistance to bollworms.  Trans. Res. 20: 665-673. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11248-010-9450-1.

    Mitter, N., E. A. Worrall, K. E. Robinson, P. Li, R. G. Jain, C. Taochy, S. J. Fletcher, B. J. Carroll, G. Q. Lu and Z. P. Xu.  2017.  Clay nanosheets for topical delivery of RNAi for sustained protection against plant viruses.  Nat. Plants 3: 16207. https://doi.org/10.1038/nplants.2016.207.

    Niño-Sánchez, J., P. T. Sambasivam, A. Sawyer, R. Hamby, A. Chen, E. Czislowski, P. Li, N. Manzie, D. M. Gardiner, R. Ford, Z. P. Xu, N. Mitter and H. Jin.  BioClayTM prolongs RNA interference-mediated crop protection against Botrytis cinerea.  J. Integrative Pl. Biol. 64: 2187-2198. https://doi.org/10.1111/jipb.13353.

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    Tan J., S. L. Levine, P. M. Bachman, P. D. Jensen, G. M. Mueller, J. P. Uffman, C. Meng, Z. Song, K. B. Richards and M. H. Beevers.  2016. No Impact of DvSnf7 RNA on Honey Bee (Apis Mellifera L.) Adults and Larvae in Dietary Feeding Tests. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 35: 287–294. https://doi.org/10.1002/etc.3075.

    Vélez, A. M., J. Jurzenski, N. Matz, X. Zhou, H. Wang, M. Ellis and B. D. Siegfried. 2016.  Developing an in Vivo Toxicity Assay for RNAi Risk Assessment in Honey Bees, Apis Mellifera L. Chemosphere 144: 1083–1090. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chemosphere.2015.09.068.

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  • Ginning up a Market for U.S. Cotton in Bangladesh

    USDA Foreign Ag Service — For almost 50 years, Bangladesh required U.S. cotton be fumigated because of concerns about the boll weevil. Collaboration between USDA agencies and the Bangladesh Ministry of Agriculture resulted in amended import requirements, exempting the United States from the list of countries required to fumigate cotton upon arrival.

    This is a significant trade win for American cotton as Bangladesh is the fifth-largest export market for U.S. cotton, with export values exceeding $339 million in 2023. This decision gins up a new chapter for U.S. cotton growers to expand their market access to Bangladesh. As one of the world’s top import markets for cotton, Bangladesh is a growth market with great potential for American cotton for years to come.

    FAS worked diligently to improve perceptions of U.S. cotton and provide evidence that the boll weevil is not a serious threat to imports. Momentum spun up when FAS provided significant technical evidence on the near total eradication of the boll weevil back in 2021 to ease Bangladesh’s concerns over the pest. Following that, FAS spent two years meeting with Bangladesh officials, including a High-Level Economic Consultation and an Agriculture and Ease of Business meeting.

    The Cotton Council International (CCI) continued bilateral efforts, bringing a Bangladesh delegation to visit U.S. cotton facilities and farmers in November 2022. The delegation witnessed the effectiveness of the Boll Weevil Eradication Program. Also, during the visit, the delegation learned about modern cotton harvesting and standardized ginning techniques while touring cotton fields, gins, and warehouses in Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas.

    This is an example of American farmers showcasing high quality agricultural products to an overseas market – a crucial element to growing American exports. U.S. cotton farmers not only utilize the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Boll Weevil Eradication Program to eliminate the pest, but the program also helps thousands of U.S. cotton growers become more competitive. Additionally, the CCI receives FAS Market Access Program funds to help grow overseas markets for American cotton growers.

    This success is a testament to the continued efforts and nearly 22 years of engagement among the U.S. cotton industry, FAS, APHIS, and Agricultural Research Service officials, and the Government of Bangladesh to advocate for fair and open trade practices that benefit American farmers and businesses.

  • UK Suspends Tariffs on All Raw Almonds Beginning April 11

    Almond Board of California — The United Kingdom’s government announced it would suspend tariffs for at least two years on raw kernel and inshell almonds from all origins – including the U.S. – beginning April 11, 2024.

    The Almond Board of California has been working for many years with the UK’s Nut and Dried Fruit Trade Association (NDFTA), the group that represents the UK processors buying California almonds. This past year, ABC provided factual information and trade data to NDFTA, which they used to officially apply to have tariffs suspended on imported almonds.

    “We are grateful for our long-time partnership with the UK’s Nut and Dried Fruit Trade Association and appreciate the UK government’s approval of the application to suspend tariffs on almonds,” said Julie Adams, ABC’s vice president for global technical and regulatory affairs. “This will certainly benefit UK consumers with increased availability of healthy almond products.”

    The tariffs – 4% on inshell almonds and 2% on raw kernels – have been in place since the UK left the European Union in 2021.

    UK trade officials on March 18 issued a list of commodities, including almonds, that will have tariffs suspended until June 30, 2026. UK officials said there is a possibility they will reassess before that date, possibly to extend the suspension or make a permanent change.

    Estimates put the costs of the soon-to-be-suspended tariffs to UK importers at about $4 million a year. The suspension will allow UK importers to offer a more competitive price on raw California almonds to UK processors, and ultimately to consumers.

    UK duties of 8-10% still remain on roasted almonds (which includes flavored almonds), 8% on marzipan and almond flour, and 20% on almond paste.

    “We plan to work with NDFTA to assess further tariff suspensions in the UK, and with other partners overseas to identify opportunities for additional tariff suspension requests to lower costs for importers and processors and boost demand for California almonds,” said Keith Schneller, ABC’s senior advisor on trade policy.

    About the Almond Board of California

    California almonds make life better by what we grow and how we grow. The Almond Board of California promotes natural, wholesome and quality almonds through leadership in strategic market development, innovative research and accelerated adoption of industry best practices on behalf of the more than 7,600 almond farmers and processors in California, most of whom are multi-generational family operations. ABC is a non-profit organization that administers a grower-enacted Federal Marketing Order under the supervision of the USDA. It was established in 1950 and is based in Modesto, CA. For more information on the Almond Board or California almonds, visit Almonds.com.

  • American Pistachio Growers Healthy Soils Grant Application Window Closing

    Time is running out to apply for funding through American Pistachio Growers’ $5 million grant awarded by the California Department of Food & Agriculture to help growers adopt healthy soils practices in the Golden State. You don’t have to be a member of APG to apply.  Watch this brief video as Pacific Nut Producer Editor Matthew Malcolm  and Carlee Branco from CalG.A.P. discuss details of the grant and application process.

    Special Thanks to American Pistachio Growers for sponsoring this video.

  • EPA’s Wastewater Guidelines True Cost is Over $1 Billion and Over 100,000 Jobs

    A coalition of meat and poultry industry groups said the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA or the Agency) proposed wastewater guidelines will cost hundreds of millions more than Agency estimates, eliminate tens of thousands of jobs and close many processing facilities, resulting in hardship for livestock and poultry producers.

    “We believe that the proposed Effluent Limitations Guidelines (ELG) would thwart the Biden administration’s efforts and limit, or reverse, these outcomes for small processors, rural job creation, producer livelihoods and a resilient food supply chain,” the coalition said.

    The Meat and Poultry Products Industry Coalition (MPP or the Coalition) made the remarks in comments submitted in response to the EPA’s proposed rule revising the ELGs for wastewater discharged by meat and poultry processing and rendering facilities. Last amended in 2004, the meat and poultry ELGs currently apply to about 180 of the estimated 5,300 meat and poultry facilities nationwide. EPA estimates between 845 and 1,620 facilities would be subject to and incur costs should the proposed ELGs become final. The full comments are here.

    The Coalition made the following key arguments in the comments:

    The Agency has grossly underestimated closures for many MPP facilities: 
    Industry analysis of the projected number of MPP facility closures for Option 1 without chlorides would jump from the 16 sites estimated in the proposed rule to 74 sites.

    The projected number of near-term job losses associated with these facility closures would increase from nearly 17,000 estimated in the proposed rule to nearly 80,000 direct job losses from plant closures.

    The projected closures and job losses for the more stringent regulatory options would increase similarly. For Option 2 with chlorides, for example, the projected number of facility closures would increase to 139, 15% of facilities that exceed the Option 2 threshold, or 340 closures for Option 3.

    The proposed rule harms the relationship between MPPs and publicly owned treatment works (POTWs):
    Indirect discharging MPP facilities often make significant financial investments in maintaining and upgrading the POTW or shouldering major surcharges for the POTW’s continued operation and maintenance. This investment reduces public treatment costs for residential ratepayers and improves the quality of local and downstream waters.

    EPA’s analyses of pollutant loadings are inconsistent with its cost analyses:
    EPA is taking credit for pollutant removals that are already occurring.

    EPA has not timely provided complete information on its analysis:
    EPA has not provided complete information for public and industry stakeholder verification in a timely way.

    The Meat and Poultry Products Industry Coalition is made up of the American Farm Bureau Federation, the Meat Institute, National Chicken Council, National Pork Producers Council, National Turkey Federation, North American Renderers Association and the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association.

    About the American Farm Bureau Federation
    The American Farm Bureau Federation is the national advocate for farmers, ranchers and rural communities. Every year, Farm Bureau members in more than 2,800 counties meet to discuss and vote on policies affecting their farms, ranches and communities. Those policies then set the agenda for their state Farm Bureaus and ultimately AFBF.

    About the Meat Institute
    The Meat Institute is the United States’ oldest and largest trade association representing packers and processors of beef, pork, lamb, veal, turkey, and processed meat products. Meat Institute members include over 350 meat packing and processing companies, the majority of which have fewer than 100 employees, and account for over 95 percent of the United States’ output of meat and 70 percent of turkey production.

    About the National Chicken Council

    The National Chicken Council (NCC) represents integrated chicken producer-processors, the companies that produce and process chickens. Member companies of NCC account for more than 95 percent of the chicken sold in the United States.

    About the National Pork Producers Council
    NPPC is the global voice for the U.S. pork industry, protecting the livelihoods of America’s pork producers who abide by ethical principles in caring for their animals; in protecting the environment and public health; and in providing safe, wholesome, nutritious pork products to consumers worldwide.

    About the National Turkey Federation

    The National Turkey Federation (NTF) represents all segments of the turkey industry, including growers, processors, breeders, hatchery owners and allied companies.  NTF is the only national trade association exclusively representing the turkey industry; its members account for more than 95 percent of all U.S. turkey production.

    About the North American Renderers Association

    The North American Renderers Association (NARA) represents the interests of the North American rendering industry to regulatory and other governmental agencies, promotes the greater use of animal byproducts, and fosters the opening and expansion of trade between foreign buyers and North American exporters. In addition to its U.S.-based headquarters, the association maintains offices in Mexico and Hong Kong, and has market consultants in strategic locations around the world.

    About the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association
    U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) is the all-feather organization representing the complete spectrum of today’s poultry industry, whose mission is to progressively serve member companies through research, education, communication and technical assistance. Founded in 1947, USPOULTRY is based in Tucker, Ga.

  • American Pistachio Growers Interim President Introduced at Annual Conference

    At the annual Pistachio Industry Conference held by American Pistachio Growers (APG) in Monterey this year, Pacific Nut Producer Editor Matthew Malcolm met with Joel Nelsen, Interim President of APG, for a video introduction to the industry.  Watch this brief interview as he also discusses his priorities with APG and its direction as the pistachio industry continues to grow.

    Special Thanks to American Pistachio Growers for sponsoring this video.

  • U.S. Dairy Replacement Heifer Numbers Fall to a 20-Year Low

    The increasing cost of raising heifer calves has prompted a steep decline in dairy replacements. California Dairy Editor Matthew Malcolm recently met with Corey Geiger, Lead Dairy Economist from CoBank, to discuss the impact of these trends and opportunities for dairy producers.  Watch this brief interview, and read more in California Dairy Magazine.

    Please thank this video’s sponsor afimilk for their industry support.