jan-feb-2021

The Biden transition team has outlined a plan to consider a USDA carbon bank that would pay farmers for carbon capture and integrate carbon sequestration into other USDA programs ranging from the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) to crop insurance. Senator Debbie Stabenow will return to the Chairmanship of the Senate Agriculture Committee. A general allocation of just over $1 1 billion to the Secretary of Agriculture remains available until expended to “prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus by providing support for agricultural producers, growers, and processors impacted by coronavirus.” According to the appropriations bill, eligible crops include “specialty crops, non-specialty crops, dairy, livestock, and poultry, producers that supply local food systems, including farmers markets, restaurants, and schools, and growers who produce livestock or poultry under a contract for another entity.” The language refers to “price trigger crops” and “flat rate crops” which essentially implies that commodities eligible for the CFAP2 program will be covered under the new funding. The rate for both categories of crops, including almonds, is $20 per acre for all eligible acres. The current party split in the House at the beginning of the 1 17th Congress is 222 Democrats to 21 1 Republicans with two seats open. This will be the smallest margin between the parties since World War II. Both Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy of California were re-elected to their leadership roles. It will take some time before specific trade issues are addressed. The outcome of the U.S.–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations remains to be determined. President Biden, during his campaign, said he would terminate the negotiations if he were elected. He will have many trade issues to address after assuming office. The biggest issue that will need attention is trade with China. The New Schmeiser V-Blade Roller combines all the advantages of a durable V-Blade with a Rear Roller to provide groove-free smoothing and reduced loose dirt at the row ends. Contact us for complete details. GET EVERY NUT ‡ ZZZ WJVFKPHLVHU FRP Because every nut counts! C M Y CM MY CY CMY K TGSV-Blade20154.5x5FINAL.pdf 1 12/12/14 2:42 PM Blue Diamond Advocate Julian Heron, Partner, SJ Lake & Heron 2 5 J A N U A R Y – F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 1