So far, $342 million: Since it re-opened enrollment for pandemic aid in early April with an emphasis on reaching a broader set of producers, including socially disadvantaged farmers, the USDA has sent $342 million to producers, according to USDA data. (FERN’s Ag Insider)
Another million-tonne sale: For the second business day in a row, private exporters reported a million-tonne sale of U.S. corn to China; on Monday, it was 1.02 million tonnes for delivery in the marketing year that opens on Sept. 1, when this year’s corn crop is coming to harvest. (USDA)
Climate change, more pesticides: Global warming could mean more insect pests for California farmers and result in heavier use of pesticides, a trend that is already noticeable. (InsideClimate News)
FDA sets biotech session: The Center for Veterinary Medicine will hold a one-hour stakeholder outreach session on July 28 to collect feedback on its review process for genetically engineered animals. (FDA)
Carbon credit math challenged: Nonprofit group CarbonPlan says landowners taking part in a California carbon credit program routinely assert they will chop down large numbers of trees even if they have little history of logging, putting into question the program’s goal of offsetting pollution. (ProPublica)
Hemp license shakedown alleged: The top political consultant to Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller was arrested on charges of taking part in a scheme to solicit money and campaign contributions from people seeking a state hemp license. (Texas Tribune)