Traceback Not Popular & New Biofuel Rules

Traceback Not Popular & New Biofuel Rules plus Food Forethought. I’m Greg Martin with today’s Northwest Report.

USDA chief veterinarian Dr. John Clifford says low participation in a livestock traceback system could hamper disease control and make it harder to restore sales to nations who ban U.S. meat. Clifford told House Agriculture and Homeland Security subcommittees that - unfortunately, a disappointing rate of producer participation -- currently only 35 percent -- hampers our ability to achieve animal traceability. He said 70 percent would provide an - effective - program.

Farm state lawmakers heard testimony last Wednesday on the EPA's new proposed rules on biofuels and greenhouse emissions. Economist Joe Glauber told lawmakers that USDA will be working closely with EPA.

GLAUBER: USDA has had a constructive and cooperative relationship with EPA as they developed their renewable fuel proposal. Their proposal raises challenging issues for public comment and will do much to advance the understanding of the lifecycle, greenhouse gas emission impacts of biofuels and in particular the land use change impacts. USDA looks forward to continuing our relationship with EPA as they complete the work necessary to finalize the RFS rule.

Now with today’s Food Forethought, here’s Lacy Gray.

Most of the nation celebrated Mother’s Day yesterday, and while the creator of Mother’s Day, Anna Jarvis, eventually ended up fighting what she saw as commercialization of the holiday, she would have to admit undeniably that it has become one of the most popular and most commercially successful holidays in the United States, and in fact around the world. Celebrated in several countries on different dates throughout the year the original theme remains the same, to honor and celebrate Mothers. Being a mom, I admit to enjoying that little extra hug or thoughtfulness intended just for me on that day, but also wish that we could honor all of the “not so traditional mothers”. Women of all colors, sizes and ages; women who have not only bore children but those women who, while not “mothers”, have nevertheless loved, nurtured, supported and mothered those in their lives. So, for all of you wonderful women out there, for all you do, thank you; you are appreciated more than you know.  

Thanks Lacy. That’s today’s Northwest Report. I’m Greg Martin on the Northwest Ag Information Network.