Vilsack: Reducing Line Speeds at Pork Plants Isn't a Done Deal

The EPA and Department of the Army announced a plan on Wednesday to initiate a new rulemaking process to restore the protections that were in place prior to the 2015 WOTUS implementation.

What's the most pressing issue for pork producers right now? Line speeds. On July 1, a Federal Court ruling is set to go into effect that slows line speed in six plants to 1,106 animals per hour. Neil Dierks, CEO of NPPC, says studies have found the reduction in line speed won't improve worker safety like proponents claim. Ultimatley, he says, it will be smaller producers impacted most if the reduction in line speed stands.

Plan to join Ken Ferrie and team for Farm Journal Corn and Soybean College on Aug. 3-4. The theme for this year’s event is Farming in the Environmental Triangle. Agenda topics include: Cover crops, carbon credits, navigating nutrient regulations, maximizing the natural environment for soybeans, managing the subsurface environment, choosing storage tanks for micronutrients and managing the furrow.

China has issued counter-sanctions in response to sanctions from the U.S., the EU, Britain and Canada over Beijing’s political crackdown in Hong Kong and treatment of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang.

We're learning more about a cyberattack on the world's largest meat processor. Details in today's AgDay Minute.

This award is given to a female producer who is a shining example for her peers. Entrants are judged on agricultural advocacy (50%), farm business innovation (30%) and industry or community leadership (20%). Apply by Sept. 1.