Environmental Protection Agency

Agriculture has been watching a ballooning backlog: 504 new chemicals in review plus 12,000 pesticide reviews that are overdue compared to their expected timelines

“Don’t panic,” says independent crop consultant Steve Hoffman with In-Depth Agronomy. “This is going to be a gradual phase in, and I know it’s definitely adding complexity.”

The agency plans to cut staff to Reagan administration levels and shift research to office run by political appointees. Advocacy groups are concerned about scientific independence.

The regulations are a response by EPA to enforce the Endangered Species Act at the agency level rather than through litigation and the court system.

Kurt Kovarik, vice president of federal affairs, Clean Fuels Alliance America, says it is a historic agreement.

Steady investment in ‘green’ biofuels has promised new market demand for farmers and ethanol producers, but will that continue in 2025?

EPA’s said its decision underscores its commitment to maintaining consumer access to E15 while ensuring a smooth transition for refiners and fuel suppliers. Administrator Zeldin highlighted ongoing efforts to collaborate with all stakeholders to maintain an affordable and stable fuel supply.

While the new parameters for herbicide application add complexity, Stanley Culpepper from the University of Georgia says it is a challenge ag retailers, distributors, Extension and crop consultants have an opportunity to help farmers rise to meet.

“This idea of ever going back to a period of non-compliance like we had, I don’t think would be appropriate or ever acceptable,” says Kyle Kunkler, director of government affairs at the American Soybean Association.

Throughout the hearing, Lee Zeldin underscored the importance of protecting the environment without hindering economic development. He stated, “We can, and we must, protect our precious environment without suffocating the economy.”