Agri-Pulse DriveTime

This week’s Open Mic guest is Michael McAdams, President of the Advanced Biofuels Association. After an extensive career serving on Capitol Hill, McAdams founded the ABFA in 2006.  The group represents all aspects of the advanced biofuels in the nation from large refiners to major feedstock providers and new technology groups.  McAdams believes government statutes for advanced biofuels are not working with taxpayer incentives to grow the industry. While the nation transitions to new leadership in Washington, a delay in the release of new regulations has the industry operating in a cloud of confusion. McAdams believes Congress needs to act in the Lame Duck Session to provide a window of time to provide clear rules for the industry to follow and meet the growing need for advanced biofuels.

Two former USDA Agriculture Secretaries discuss trade tariffs, farm policy and disaster assistance.

The Fed lowered interest rates again this afternoon. The nation continues to watch state election returns for clues to which party will control the Lower Chamber.

Arkansas Senator John Boozman says leaders have a mandate from voters to deliver a better American economy. Boozman feels the urgency to help farmers and ranchers financially to secure financing for the new crop year.

Iowa Senator Charles Grassley see's little chance for a new farm bill in the Lame Duck Session of Congress. He did express hope for an extension of the blenders credit for biodiesel.

Agriculture groups are keeping an eye on state ballot initiatives as voters go to the polls tomorrow.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack reports work continues on a H5N1 vaccine and responds to questions of the way the department handled investments in the Pure Prairie Poultry processor.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says USDA will begin bulk testing milk for H5N1 and global food leaders say the issue of chronic hunger is being ignored in the U.S. elections.

A global agriculture leader supports genetic engineering and a U.S. trade advisor says market promotion funding offers tremendous return on investment.

Iowa Senator Charles Grassley says failure to approve a new farm bill this calendar year will force compromise on farm and nutrition programs next year. Meanwhile, the 2023 farm safety net will provide little if any assistance for farmers this year.