Lower row crop prices: Farm-gate prices for corn, soybeans, wheat, and cotton would fall for the second year in a row, said USDA’s first projection of this year’s harvests; the soybean crop would be the second-largest ever. (USDA)
Farm bill lobbying power: The agribusiness sector spent $177 million on lobbying activities on Capitol Hill in 2023, more than was spent by the defense sector and the petroleum sector, according to an analysis of disclosure reports. (Union of Concerned Scientists)
Pig kidney recipient dies: Richard Slayman, 62, the first transplant recipient of a genetically modified pig kidney, died nearly two months after the procedure; doctors said there was no indication the transplant was a factor. (Associated Press)
Biofuel tax credits questioned: One-third of a sample of 124 taxpayers who claimed biofuel tax credits failed to provide appropriate documentation, suggesting their $30.3 million in credits were improperly granted, said an inspector general’s report. (DTN/Progressive Farmer)