Farm Report: Farmers union, bird flu and crop insurance
HARRISBURG, Pa. – The National Farmers Union is opposing restrictions that would undo the Packers and Stockyards Act.
They have sent a letter to the Appropriations Committee pointing out what they consider to be damaging provisions in the FY24 Appropriations bill.
The National Farmers Union President, Rob Larew, says Congress should champion family farmers and consumers, and not bow to meatpacking monopolies. The USDA’s first updated Packers and Stockyards Act rule went into effect this week and will be making more rules to follow in the coming weeks.
Thanks for signing up!
Watch for us in your inbox.
Subscribe Now
WHTM Severe Weather Alerts
The Department of Agriculture says the United States is 18 months away from a vaccine for bird flu. The U.S. has found bird flu in eight commercial flocks and 14 backyard flocks so far this year. Secretary Tom Vilsack said in another year and a half, the United States will have a vaccine that would be effective for the particular flu we are dealing with now. Plans are to discuss this vaccine with overseas trading partners who buy American poultry, to make sure their concerns are addressed. That’s because other countries could restrict imports of vaccinated U.S. poultry. But there is one thing that may help put those fears to rest; the World Organization for Animal Health said governments should consider flu vaccines to prevent the spread of Avian influenza.
Lower prices mean lower prices, right? We’re talking about crop insurance. Premiums this year shouldn’t be as expensive as last year because corn and soybean futures prices have been lower. Research by the University of Illinois indicates that premiums should be 16 to 18% lower for corn, and 10 to 12% lower for soybean policies. Since lower insurance prices also result in lower guarantees per acre, researchers say farmers could opt to increase their coverage levels. But this is all contingent on insurance companies passing along the savings. Remember, these insurance prices for corn and soybeans are based on average settlement prices in February on the new crop contracts. I checked and the November soybean contract has averaged $11.72. It was over two dollars higher last year.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
