Three More NWS Cases, Including the First Outside of Texas

Federal animal health officials have confirmed three additional cases of New World Screwworm in the United States, bringing the total number of detections to five and increasing concerns about the parasite's potential spread. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported new cases in a calf in La Salle County, Texas, a goat in Gillespie County, Texas, and a dog in Lea County, New Mexico. The detections follow two previously confirmed cases in calves in Texas, marking the first U.S. cattle cases in roughly 50 years. The latest findings expand the geographic footprint of the outbreak beyond South Texas and into a neighboring state. USDA officials said the New Mexico case is believed to be isolated, but additional animals at the dog's home are being inspected while investigators work to determine the animal's recent travel history. New World Screwworm larvae feed on living tissue and pose a significant threat to livestock production. 

Grain and Feeds Association Applauds Ag Appropriations Passage

The National Grain and Feed Association is praising the House passage of the fiscal year 2027 agriculture appropriations bill, saying the legislation includes several provisions aimed at strengthening the nation's grain handling and export system. Among the measures supported by NGFA is a directive for the USDA to develop a contingency plan to maintain official grain inspection and weighing services during future disruptions. The bill also encourages improved coordination between USDA's Federal Grain Inspection Service and the Food and Drug Administration to speed approvals for grain reconditioning plans at export facilities when grain lots require corrective action. USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service will also maintain key reports and surveys and provide advance notice before making significant changes to data collection programs. "House's passage of the agriculture appropriations bill marks an important step forward for America's grain and feed industry," said NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert. The bill now moves to the Senate.

USMCA Study Shows Agreement Lowers Grocery Costs

A new study from Purdue University suggests the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement has helped keep food costs lower for American consumers while creating additional market opportunities for U.S. agriculture. Released by the Corn Refiners Association and the Agriculture Coalition for USMCA, the study estimates North American trade agreements save U.S. households about $700 annually on food purchases, equal to roughly seven percent of total household food spending. Researchers found that every one percent reduction in food tariffs corresponded with an average 2.8 percent decline in consumer food prices over a ten-year period. The report also warns that without USMCA, food tariffs could increase by an average of 7.4 percent, potentially erasing those savings within a decade. "Food affordability remains one of the top concerns for American families, and this study makes clear that USMCA is part of the solution," said Corn Refiners Association President and CEO John Bode.

Work Underway on a Year-Round E15 Bill in the Senate

Efforts to secure year-round nationwide sales of E15 ethanol fuel remain active in the U.S. Senate, offering renewed hope for corn growers seeking expanded demand for their crop. Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota said that lawmakers are working on new legislation to allow permanent year-round sales of E15, though details of the proposal are still being negotiated. "We are trying to get an E15 bill, and what it looks exactly like is in the process of being determined," Thune told Agri-Pulse. The legislation faces several hurdles. Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman (BOZE-man) said E15 falls under the jurisdiction of the Senate Environment Committee and is not expected to be included in upcoming farm bill proposals. Debate also continues over whether an E15 bill should include changes to the Renewable Fuel Standard. While some groups favor a stand-alone E15 measure, others support provisions that would limit biofuel blending exemptions for small refineries.

Produce Industry Hits Washington, D.C.

Fresh produce industry leaders are in Washington, D.C., this week to advocate for policy priorities affecting growers, consumers, and agricultural businesses nationwide. The International Fresh Produce Association's Washington Conference, held June 8-10, brought together hundreds of produce growers, industry representatives, and corporate executives to meet with lawmakers and administration officials on key issues facing the sector. Among the group's top priorities was securing strong funding for federal nutrition programs, including SNAP and WIC, while expanding incentives that encourage fruit and vegetable purchases. Industry leaders also emphasized the need for workforce and immigration reforms to address ongoing labor shortages that can leave crops unharvested and increase food costs. Trade and food safety issues were also a major focus of the conference. Attendees discussed international market access, supply chain challenges, and emerging food safety requirements. Participants also received updates from Food and Drug Administration officials on new human food safety initiatives.

FARM Biosecurity Celebrates Updated Secure Milk Supply Plan

The National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management Program has released an updated Secure Milk Supply Plan designed to help dairy producers maintain operations during animal disease outbreaks while protecting herd health and the food supply. The revised plan expands beyond foot-and-mouth disease to address other contagious livestock diseases, including H5N1 avian influenza. Updates also include new resources for dairy farmers, cooperatives, and processors, along with revised movement permit guidance covering raw milk intended for animal feed. “It was a great opportunity to collaborate with other farmers, processors, veterinarians, and state and federal officials to update the SMS Plan for our evolving dairy industry,” said Minnesota dairy farmer Tom Walsh. “We put together many commonsense resources to protect our animals and consumers while still milking healthy cows and moving healthy animals.” Industry leaders say the changes reflect evolving disease threats and will help dairy farms prepare for future animal health challenges.

Wednesday Watch List

Markets

On Wednesday, the Bureau of Labor Statistics will release the May Consumer Price Index report at 7:30 a.m. CDT, giving traders and investors an updated look at inflation in the U.S. economy. At 9:30 a.m. CDT, the Energy Information Administration will release the weekly Petroleum Status report, including last week's ethanol production.

Weather

A system is pushing into the Midwest on Wednesday. Though some scattered showers and thunderstorms will occur during the morning, strong-to-severe thunderstorms are expected to develop Wednesday afternoon and evening. All hazards are on the table including a few long-track tornadoes and hurricane-force wind gusts. Additional thunderstorms will develop across the Plains, with a new system moving into the Central Plains Wednesday night.