NPPC Applauds ASF Prevention and USDA Schools Assistance
From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson with your Agribusiness Update.
**California sheep ranchers are enjoying current strong prices for lamb amid high domestic demand.
But many are worried over a new state law that will require sheepherders to be paid for working overtime, starting January 1st.
The Western Range Association says many ranches provide housing and food for sheepherders who are often on call 24 hours a day, but the new law could balloon ranching costs.
**The National Pork Producers Council is commending Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack for dedicating $500 million in USDA Commodity Credit Corporation funds for prevention of and preparation for African swine fever, the pig-only disease that would be devastating to U.S. pork.
NPPC President Jen Sorenson thanked Vilsack for providing additional funding for federal efforts to protect America’s 60,000-plus pork producers from this devastating disease.
**The USDA has announced assistance to help schools respond to supply chain disruptions, part of a comprehensive set of investments to address challenges in agriculture today.
USDA is aware some schools are experiencing challenges purchasing and obtaining food for their meal programs and is taking action to ensure that doesn’t interfere with their ability to serve children in their care.
The department is actively engaging to best leverage existing options for addressing potential issues like emergency procurement, higher meal reimbursement rates, and targeted waivers of certain meal standards.
