Jim Wiesemeyer

Jim Wiesemeyer was a Pro Farmer contributor as the Washington Bureau Chief. His columns provided expertise and insight on farm policy, trade policy and Washington politics.

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EPA’s 479-page RFS ruling can be difficult to sift through and interpret. Jim Wiesemeyer breaks down the heavy-hitting components that will impact producers.
The committee will meet on Thursday to officially set the toplines for each of the 12 appropriations bills. If all 12 bills aren’t passed by year-end, automatic across-the-board cuts would kick in to push talks along.
Over the 29 years of free trade, U.S. ag exports to Mexico increased both in terms of volume and value, although there were some years where growth was not positive.
Senate Ag Chair Debbie Stabenow, (D-Mich.) says there will be no new funding for the 2023 farm bill. However, Stabenow stressed she will not allow a cut in conservation funding.
The Senate and House Ag committees are facing delays in drafting the next farm bill, and it is expected to be the most expensive farm bill to date, clocking in at around $1.5 trillion.
Mexico claims because it is self-sufficient in GMO corn for food, it has not violated any trade agreements. Given the firm stances of both countries, it appears this situation will lead to a USMCA dispute settlement.
China’s exports to Russia reached a record high in April, amounting to $9.6 billion.
Dow Inc. and New Energy Blue have announced a long-term supply agreement to produce bio-based ethylene from renewable ag residues, specifically corn stover.
“We can’t prioritize one natural resource concern over all others and we shouldn’t prioritize one solution above all others,” Rep. G.T. Thompson (R-Pa.) said.
Final blending levels under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) are under review for 2023 and beyond. EPA is required to finalize the RFS levels by June 14, as per a consent agreement reached in court with Growth Energy.