Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # NGFA National Grain and Feed Association ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.ngfa.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [NGFA statement on Senate continuing resolution](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-senate-cr/) - ARLINGTON, Va., August 8, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) applauded the Senate’s action to extend critical federal authorities, including the U.S. Grain Standards Act, through December 11, 2026. Maintaining these essential programs provides much-needed certainty for the grain and feed industry and helps ensure the continued, efficient inspection, movement, and marketing - [NGFA applauds Senate confirmation of Hedlund to second STB term](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-hedlund-to-stb/) - ARLINGTON, Va., August 7, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today welcomed the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Karen Hedlund to a second term as a Member of the Surface Transportation Board (STB). “Karen Hedlund has been a thoughtful, experienced, and effective member of the Board during a critical period for the freight - [NGFA applauds advancement of Keith Sonderling nomination](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-sonderling-nomination/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 30, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee for advancing the nomination of Keith Sonderling to serve as U.S. Secretary of Labor. “The NGFA appreciates the Committee for advancing Keith Sonderling’s nomination,” said NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert. “America’s - [NGFA welcomes Senate committee approval of bipartisan WRDA legislation](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-welcomes-senate-committee-approval-of-bipartisan-wrda-legislation/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 15, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today welcomed unanimous approval of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, calling the action an important step toward strengthening the nation’s inland waterways system and supporting the long-term competitiveness of U.S. agriculture. NGFA thanked - [NGFA applauds committee advancement of WRDA bill](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-committee-advancement-of-wrda-bill/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 14, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for advancing the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), bipartisan legislation critical to maintaining and improving the nation’s inland waterways infrastructure. NGFA commended Committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-Mo.), Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-Wash), and other - [Evan Dean joins NGFA as vice president, government and legislative affairs](https://www.ngfa.org/evan-dean-joins-ngfa/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 7, 2026 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today announced that Evan Dean has joined the association as vice president, government and legislative affairs, starting July 13. In this role, Dean will lead NGFA’s federal advocacy efforts and help advance the association’s policy priorities on behalf of the grain, feed, - [NGFA reaffirms support for long-term USMCA extension](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-reaffirms-support-for-long-term-usmca-extension/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 1, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today reaffirmed its strong support for a long-term extension of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) following the conclusion of the agreement’s first six-year joint review. While the United States did not confirm an extension during the review process, USMCA remains fully in force, - [NGFA welcomes Senate Farm Bill proposal, inclusion of U.S. Grain Standards Act reauthorization and IFEED legislative priorities](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-welcomes-senate-farm-bill-proposal/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 23, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today welcomed the release of Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman’s (R-Ark.) Farm Bill proposal – which includes provisions to reauthorize the U.S. Grain Standards Act, as well as key elements of the Innovative FEED Act (IFEED) legislation – and expressed appreciation - [NGFA thanks House for adopting agriculture appropriations bill that supports U.S. grain and feed sector](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-thanks-house-ag-appros/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 4, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today thanked the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the fiscal year 2027 agriculture appropriations bill. The bipartisan legislation includes several key NGFA provisions that strengthen the reliability, transparency, and global competitiveness of the U.S. grain and feed industry: Providing for the - [NGFA urges CFTC to modernize Commitments of Traders Reporting Program](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-cftc-to-modernize-cot/) - Arlington, Va., June 4, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) joined comments submitted today to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) supporting the agency’s review of its Commitments of Traders (COT) Reporting Program and recommending updates to improve market transparency and risk management for agricultural market participants. The association noted that COT - [NGFA statement on STB’s decision to conditionally accept Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern Corporation merger application](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-statement-on-stbs-decision-to-conditionally-accept-union-pacific-norfolk-southern-corporation-merger-application/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 28, 2026 – In accordance with the Surface Transportation Board’s merger rules, the Board today conditionally accepted Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Corporation’s revised application, subject to additional information to be provided. According to the Board’s decision, it will require Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern Corporation to supplement their Revised Application by July - [NGFA welcomes progress in transportation funding, supports additional policy considerations as process advances](https://www.ngfa.org/build-america-250/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 22, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) appreciates the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee’s efforts to advance the BUILD America 250 Act. NGFA supports several provisions in the legislation that will improve freight transportation efficiency in the agricultural supply chain. NGFA applauded the inclusion of the 10 percent axle-weight - [NGFA applauds Senate confirmation of Richard Kloster to the Surface Transportation Board](https://www.ngfa.org/kloster/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 18, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Richard Kloster to serve on the Surface Transportation Board (STB). “Richard Kloster brings deep expertise in freight rail operations, transportation strategy, and supply chain dynamics that will strengthen the Board’s ability to oversee the nation’s - [NGFA applauds passage of farm bill in the House, reauthorization of U.S. Grain Standards Act](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-passage-of-farm-bill/) - ARLINGTON, Va., April 30, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the House of Representatives for passing a farm bill that delivers critical policy certainty for U.S. agriculture and includes a full reauthorization of the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA). NGFA commended members of the House Agriculture Committee – and the - [NGFA applauds House agriculture appropriations bill supporting U.S. grain and feed sector](https://www.ngfa.org/ag-appropriations-bill/) - ARLINGTON, Va., April 29, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the House Appropriations Committee for advancing the fiscal year 2027 agriculture appropriations bill. The legislation includes several key NGFA provisions that strengthen the reliability, transparency, and global competitiveness of the U.S. grain and feed industry: Providing for the U.S. Department - [NGFA concludes 130th annual convention with focus on markets, transportation, and policy priorities](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-concludes-130th-annual-convention/) - NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 24, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today concluded its 130th annual convention, convening more than 700 grain, feed, and processing industry leaders from across the country for three days of strategic dialogue, policy engagement, and industry collaboration in Nashville, Tenn. Across general sessions and committee meetings, NGFA members - [NGFA announces Brian Schouvieller, CHS Inc., as NGFA chairman](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-announces-brian-schouvieller-chs-inc-as-ngfa-chairman/) - NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 24, 2026 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) is pleased to announce that members have elected Brian Schouvieller, Senior Vice President of Ag, Trade and Risk Management at CHS Inc. in Saint Paul, Minn., as NGFA chairman for a one-year term. Schouvieller previously served as NGFA First Vice Chairman and - [NGFA declares opening of Mid-Mississippi River](https://www.ngfa.org/opening-mid-mississippi-river/) - Pursuant to the NGFA Trade Rules, NGFA has declared that the Mid-Mississippi River is open for navigation as of 7 a.m. on Thursday, March 19. NGFA Barge Freight Trading Rule 18(J) provides as follows: “The Dubuque and South (Mid-Mississippi) opening commences the first 07:00 hours of the first business day after the first empty dry - [NGFA applauds House Agriculture Committee for advancing farm bill, encourages continued activity](https://www.ngfa.org/farm-bill-markup/) - ARLINGTON, Va., March 5, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the House Agriculture Committee for advancing the farm bill following committee markup, calling the action an important step toward providing long-overdue certainty for U.S. agriculture. NGFA commended Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.) and members of the committee for moving the - [NGFA commends House Agriculture Committee for advancing Farm Bill process](https://www.ngfa.org/farm-bill-process/) - ARLINGTON, VA., Feb. 13, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the House Agriculture Committee for taking important steps to advance the farm bill process and reaffirming its commitment to providing certainty for America’s farmers, grain handlers, and feed manufacturers. NGFA also expressed appreciation for Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson’s (R-Pa.) continued - [NGFA reiterates strong support for USMCA renewal, highlights trade deal’s importance](https://www.ngfa.org/usmca-renewal-importance/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 12, 2026 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today submitted a statement for the record in support of the Senate Finance Committee’s hearing on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The statement, signed by NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert, expressed strong support for a full renewal of USMCA and emphasized its - [NGFA applauds Treasury’s proposed rule on Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit](https://www.ngfa.org/section-45z/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 3, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the U.S. Department of the Treasury for releasing its notice of proposed rulemaking to implement the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, which provides greater clarity on feedstock sourcing and the role of on-farm agricultural practices in clean fuel production. - [NGFA applauds extension of U.S. Grain Standards Act, urges full reauthorization](https://www.ngfa.org/usgsa_extension/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 3, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded Congress for passing the fiscal year funding package that includes an extension of the authorization for the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA) through Sept. 30, 2026, providing critical continuity for the federal grain inspection and weighing system. NGFA thanked congressional - [NGFA applauds USTR leadership and progress on USMCA](https://www.ngfa.org/ustr-leadership-usmca/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 28, 2026 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the leadership and continued progress of the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative following Ambassador Jamieson Greer’s meeting with Mexican Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard, which highlighted constructive engagement ahead of the upcoming U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) Joint Review. “NGFA applauds - [NGFA statement on STB’s decision regarding Union Pacific merger application](https://www.ngfa.org/statement-on-stb-decision/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 16, 2026 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) appreciates the Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) decision to require additional information from Union Pacific on its merger application consistent with the Board’s merger rules. NGFA has gathered feedback and perspectives from members with varying viewpoints on the merger proposal since it was - [NGFA applauds STB proposal to repeal flawed 49 CFR Part 1144 regulation](https://www.ngfa.org/applauds-stb-1144/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 8, 2026 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the Surface Transportation Board for proposing to repeal Part 1144 of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, a regulation adopted by the Interstate Commerce Commission in 1985 that has, for decades, prevented rail shippers captive to one railroad - [NGFA applauds reintroduction of HAULS Act](https://www.ngfa.org/applauds-reintroduction-hauls/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 19, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded Senator Deb. Fischer’s (R-Neb.) reintroduction of the Haulers of Agriculture and Livestock Safety (HAULS) Act, legislation aimed at providing greater regulatory certainty and flexibility for those transporting agricultural commodities while maintaining strong federal safety standards. The HAULS Act would improve - [NGFA applauds confirmations of Callahan, Schultz, and Selig](https://www.ngfa.org/applauds-confirmations/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 18, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) applauds the Senate’s confirmations of Dr. Julie Callahan as Chief Agricultural Negotiator at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, Michelle Schultz to the Surface Transportation Board, and Michael Selig as Chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. “Each of these leaders - [NGFA supports reauthorization of the CFTC as a standalone agency](https://www.ngfa.org/cftc-standalone-agency/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 11, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today reiterated its strong support for reauthorizing the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) as a standalone agency. In a statement submitted to the House Agriculture Committee as part of the Committee’s hearing on reauthorization of the CFTC, NGFA cited the agency’s essential - [Risk management, transportation, and operational resilience highlight Day 2 of NGFA’s 54th Country Elevator Conference](https://www.ngfa.org/cec-day-2/) - INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Dec. 9, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) continued its 54th annual Country Elevator Conference (CEC) with a second full day of programming focused on arbitration, grain-handling risk, freight transportation, insurance trends, and the operational challenges grain and feed companies will face in 2026. Building on the economic and policy - [Markets, trade, and biofuels set the tone as NGFA opens 54th Country Elevator Conference](https://www.ngfa.org/cec-day-1/) - INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Dec. 8, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) kicked off the 54th annual Country Elevator Conference (CEC) today, where more than 450 attendees gathered for a full slate of economic, market, policy, and operational insights shaping the year ahead. Day 1 sessions highlighted shifting commodity fundamentals, an evolving global trade - [NGFA urges strong, long-term renewal of USMCA, highlights key opportunities to strengthen cross-border grain trade](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-strong-long-term-renewal-of-usmca/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 3, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today emphasized the critical importance of the U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) to the North American grain, feed, and oilseed supply chain. It urged the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to pursue a full 16-year renewal of the agreement with no changes - [NGFA supports Selig for CFTC, commends committee for advancing nomination](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-supports-selig-for-cftc/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 19, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today expressed its support of Mike Selig to be Chairman and Commissioner of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), and applauded the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry for advancing his nomination. Mr. Selig’s thoughtful responses during the hearing reinforced his - [NGFA applauds Senate Finance Committee for advancing Dr. Callahan’s nomination, encourages swift confirmation by the full Senate](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-confirmation-of-callahan-finance/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 19, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) applauds the Senate Finance Committee for voting to advance the nomination of Dr. Julie Callahan to serve as Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. Today’s committee action marks an important milestone in the confirmation process, and NGFA - [NGFA and key agricultural groups urge swift Senate confirmation of STB nominees](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-and-key-agricultural-groups-urge-swift-senate-confirmation-of-stb-nominees/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 6, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) joined 17 other agricultural organizations in urging the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee to continue advancing the renomination of Michelle Schultz and the nomination of Richard Kloster to serve on the Surface Transportation Board (STB). In a joint letter sent to - [NGFA applauds reopening of United States agricultural exports to China, suspension of port and shipping fees, and expanded opportunities across the region](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-reopening-of-united-states-agricultural-exports-to-china/) - NGFA issues comment in response to formal fact sheet issued on agreements with China ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 3, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) expressed its appreciation to President Donald J. Trump, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, and other administration officials for their - [NGFA welcomes Senate Finance Committee’s consideration of Dr. Callahan’s nomination, encourages continued progress toward confirmation](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-welcomes-senate-finance-committees-consideration-of-dr-callahans-nomination/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 29, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) welcomes the Senate Finance Committee’s consideration of Dr. Julie Callahan’s nomination to serve as Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. NGFA is encouraged to see the confirmation process moving forward for this critical position and views today’s - [NGFA applauds Senate Agriculture Committee for advancing U.S. Grain Standards Act Reauthorization](https://www.ngfa.org/senate-ag-advances-usgsa/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 21, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the Senate Agriculture Committee for marking up and advancing legislation to reauthorize the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA). This action demonstrates strong bipartisan recognition of the essential role that official grain inspection and weighing play in supporting U.S. agriculture, trade, - [NGFA applauds trade agreements expanding market access in Southeast Asia](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-trade-agreements-expanding-market-access-in-southeast-asia/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 26, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today thanked President Donald J. Trump and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer for advancing new trade frameworks that expand U.S. agricultural opportunities in Southeast Asia. “Today’s agreements with Malaysia and Cambodia, along with new trade frameworks with Thailand and Vietnam, demonstrate the - [NGFA applauds Senate confirmation of USDA Under Secretaries Hoskins, Fordyce, and Hutchins](https://www.ngfa.org/usda-under-secretaries-confirmed/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 18, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the U.S. Senate for confirming three key nominees to serve as Under Secretaries at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): Dudley Hoskins for Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP), Richard Fordyce for Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC), and Scott Hutchins for - [New study details grain and feed industry’s $401.7B impact, 1.16M jobs](https://www.ngfa.org/new-study-details/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 18, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today released The Harvest Economy, a new economic impact study highlighting the vital role the U.S. grain and feed industry plays in powering jobs, tax revenues, and economic growth across America. Among the study’s key national findings: $401.7 billion in total economic - [NGFA applauds House passage of U.S. Grain Standards Act reauthorization, urges Senate action before Sept. 30](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-house-passage-of-u-s-grain-standards-act-reauthorization-urges-senate-action-before-sept-30/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 8, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R. 4550, legislation to reauthorize the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA), which underpins the nation’s official grain inspection and weighing system. “This is a must-pass bill for the entire grain value chain. It - [NGFA and agricultural leaders urge Senate to swiftly confirm Dr. Julie Callahan as Chief Agricultural Negotiator](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-and-agricultural-leaders-urge-senate-to-swiftly-confirm-dr-julie-callahan-as-chief-agricultural-negotiator/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 5, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), joined by 89 agricultural organizations, today voiced strong support for the nomination of Dr. Julie Callahan to serve as Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). In a letter sent to Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and - [NGFA commends Senate for confirming Sonny Perdue as the next Secretary of Agriculture](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-33/) - WASHINGTON, April 24, 2017 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the U.S. Senate on its 87-11 vote confirming former two-term Georgia Gov. George E. (Sonny) Perdue III to serve as the 31st secretary of agriculture.“Secretary Perdue’s expertise, considerable experience in production agriculture, agribusiness and state government, and his ability to engage effectively - [NGFA praises Section 199A fix in omnibus spending bill](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-32/) - ARLINGTON, Va. March 23, 2018 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended Congress for voting to pass and President Donald Trump for signing into the law the stakeholder-driven provisions included in the omnibus fiscal year 2018 appropriations bill that corrects the unintended consequences of Section 199A of the Tax Cuts and Jobs - [NGFA commends ratification of USMCA agreement](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-31/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 16, 2020 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commended Congress for ratifying the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) after the Senate approved the trade deal on Jan. 16 by an overwhelming 89-10 vote.“The USMCA is a tremendous positive for the United States and the entire North American region and our interdependent economies,” - [NGFA, ag groups, request expansion of hours-of-service exemption for all agricultural haulers during COVID-19 pandemic](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-25/) - WASHINGTON, D.C., March 25, 2020 — In a letter to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and 53 other agricultural groups today urged that the agency grant relief from federal drive time rules for all truck drivers hauling agricultural goods.“As trucking capacity and the availability of drivers tightens due - [NGFA, ag groups request states increase truck weight limits](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-24/) - WASHINGTON, D.C., March 30, 2020 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and more than 60 national agricultural groups today urged each state to increase truck weight limits on highways within their jurisdictions to a “minimum harmonized weight” of 88,000 pounds.“Increased truck weights improve the food and agriculture industry’s efficiency and capacity to deliver - [NGFA urges states to issue new CDLs during pandemic](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-23/) - WASHINGTON, D.C., April 6, 2020 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) urged U.S. governors to adopt measures to allow the issuance of new commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) during shutdowns or reduced operations of state motor vehicle offices in response to the coronavirus pandemic.“We are concerned that if driver’s license agencies continue to not - [FMCSA finalizes hours-of-service rules](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-22/) - WASHINGTON, D.C., April 14, 2020 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for issuing its long-awaited final rule on changes to driver hours-of-service regulations with reforms that will increase driver flexibility and facilitate the availability of truck transportation, which moves the vast majority of agricultural freight.“FMCSA’s final - [NGFA commends House passage of U.S. Grain Standards Reauthorization Act of 2020](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-30/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 2, 2020 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the House for approving the U.S. Grain Standards Reauthorization Act of 2020 (S. 4054), which President Donald Trump is expected to sign into law. “This legislation, which would reauthorize the U.S. Grain Standards Reauthorization Act for another five years, provides certainty - [NGFA outlines ag priorities for the next surface transportation bill](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-21/) - ARLINGTON, March 17, 2021 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today urged lawmakers to prioritize improvements to U.S. freight transportation in the next surface transportation bill that are environmentally responsible and enhance the economic health of U.S. agriculture.In a March 17 letter to each member of Congress led by NGFA and signed by dozens of - [NGFA commends Army Corps for prioritizing Mississippi River infrastructure upgrades in spending plan](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-19/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 19, 2022 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commended the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for prioritizing crucial inland waterways infrastructure projects in its spending plan released today that includes nearly $23 billion in supplemental funding.In the plan released on Jan. 19, the Army Corps announced it would spend $732 million to finish design - [NGFA encourages STB to establish pro-competition conditions for CP-KCS rail merger](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-15/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 28, 2022 – In comments submitted to the Surface Transportation Board (STB) on Feb. 28, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) encouraged the STB to ensure competitive opportunities for rail shippers continue under the merger of Canadian Pacific Railway and Kansas City Southern Railway.“The NGFA generally does not oppose the merger of CP - [NGFA and TFI urge Biden administration work with Canada to ease supply chain strains](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-20/) - ARLINGTON, Va., March 8, 2022 – In a March 7 letter to President Joe Biden, the National Grain and Feed Association, The Fertilizer Institute and 19 other members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group requested the administration work with the Canadian government to avert a major railway labor strike and to rescind the cross-border vaccine - [NGFA testifies on proposed competitive switching rules at STB](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-14/) - ARLINGTON, Va., March 15, 2022 – During a Surface Transportation Board (STB) hearing on March 15, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) said finalizing competitive (or “reciprocal”) switching rules pending at the STB would increase rail-to-rail competition for the benefit of agricultural shippers and for society at large.NGFA Chief Economist Max Fisher testified today - [NGFA urges STB to address inadequate rail service](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-13/) - ARLINGTON, Va., March 24, 2022 -- The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today urged the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to address “significant rail service disruptions” negatively impacting the nation’s supply chains. In a March 24 letter to STB Chairman Marty Oberman, NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert said rail customers are not being adequately served - [NGFA, ag groups outline several proposals to improve rail service](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-12/) - ARLINGTON, Va., April 22, 2022 – In an April 21 letter to the Surface Transportation Board (STB), the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and 32 other members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group outlined several measures the Board can take to address rail service problems and prevent future service failures of the magnitude currently - [NGFA commends Senate for passing WRDA 2022](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-27/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 28, 2022 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commended the Senate today for passing by 93-1 the Waterways Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022, which includes important provisions for modernizing the U.S. waterways infrastructure. Building on the progress of WRDA 2020, Section 103 of the Senate’s WRDA 2022 amends the cost-share - [NGFA commends Senate for passing WRDA 2022](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-18/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 28, 2022 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commended the Senate today for passing by 93-1 the Waterways Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022, which includes important provisions for modernizing the U.S. waterways infrastructure. Building on the progress of WRDA 2020, Section 103 of the Senate’s WRDA 2022 amends the cost-share - [NGFA issues statement in response to final report on breaching the Lower Snake River Dams](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-17/) - ARLINGTON, Va., August 26, 2022 — A report commissioned by Washington Governor Jay Inslee and Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., recommends replacing the benefits of the Lower Snake River Dams (LSRD) before breaching them to save endangered salmon runs. In the final report published Aug. 25, they acknowledged that some industries relying on the dams would no longer - [NGFA commends Congress for approving rail agreement](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-11/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 1, 2022 — National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) President and CEO Mike Seyfert issued the following statement after the Senate approved a resolution today to implement the tentative agreement brokered by the Biden administration with rail labor unions and management. The House approved the measure on Nov. 30. It now heads - [NGFA commends Congress for approving rail agreement](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-28/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 1, 2022 — National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) President and CEO Mike Seyfert issued the following statement after the Senate approved a resolution today to implement the tentative agreement brokered by the Biden administration with rail labor unions and management. The House approved the measure on Nov. 30. It now heads - [NGFA testifies on rail service issues at the STB](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-10/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 14, 2022 -- During a Surface Transportation Board (STB) hearing today, National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) President and CEO Mike Seyfert detailed the impacts on NGFA members of the Union Pacific Railroad’s increased use of embargoes. STB ordered UP executives to appear at two days of hearings on Dec. 13-14 regarding the - [Congress passes waterways legislation](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-16/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 16, 2022 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commended Congress for passing waterways legislation that would expedite U.S. lock and dam modernization.The Senate approved the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022 on Dec. 15, sending WRDA to the president for signature. The House approved the legislation on Dec. 8. The - [STB publishes final rules on new rate review process](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-9/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 19, 2022 -- The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commended the Surface Transportation Board (STB) today for issuing its long-awaited final rules for the voluntary Small Case Arbitration Program and the Final Offer Rate Review (FORR) process. STB issued its final rule on Dec. 19 for a streamlined FORR process that would - [NGFA outlines actions for improving transportation infrastructure](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-8/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 1, 2023 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today outlined recommended actions for Congress to incentivize better rail service, improve trucking capacity and continue modernizing U.S. inland waterways. NGFA submitted the comments for the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Feb. 1 hearing on the state of transportation infrastructure and supply - [House committee approves bills to improve trucking transportation](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-26/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 24, 2023 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commended lawmakers on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for advancing several bills that would increase trucking capacity and allow more flexibility to address the shortage of truck drivers. “Our members rely on a strong trucking transportation system to move America’s food, fuel - [Senate committee approves bill to create new feed additive category at FDA](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-5/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 15, 2023 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commended the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions for advancing a bill that would establish a new pathway at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for novel feed additives to increase livestock efficiency and production.NGFA has endorsed the Innovative - [NGFA advocates for farm bill, transportation priorities at annual fly-in](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-3/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 22, 2023 — National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) members gathered in Washington, D.C., this week for the NGFA’s annual fly-in to meet with nearly 100 members of Congress to discuss farm bill priorities, transportation issues, trade and other topics important to the grain, feed and processing industry. NGFA state/regional affiliates also led - [NGFA supports the Reliable Rail Service Act](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-2/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 28, 2023 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) issued a statement supporting the Reliable Rail Service Act (S.2071), a bill recently introduced by Sens. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisc., and Roger Marshall, R-Kan., that would better define Class I rail carriers’ common carrier obligation. “Clarification of the common carrier obligation has been needed - [NGFA congratulates Torres Small on her confirmation as USDA deputy secretary](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-18/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 12, 2023 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) congratulated Xochitl Torres Small on her confirmation to serve as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) deputy secretary. The Senate voted 84-8 to confirm Ms. Torres Small on July 11. The Senate Agriculture Committee unanimously advanced her nomination in May. “NGFA members extend their - [NGFA supports USDA final rule to remove ‘Soybeans of Other Colors’](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-supports-usda-final-rule-to-remove-soybeans-of-other-colors/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 14, 2023 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commended the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today for issuing final rules to remove “Soybeans of Other Colors” (SBOC) as a grading factor for determining soybean quality. “NGFA appreciates the efforts of USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Moffit and Agricultural - [NGFA’s 52nd annual Country Elevator Conference and Trade Show is Dec. 3-5 in Louisville, Ky.](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-17/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 2, 2023 — The National Grain and Feed Association’s (NGFA) 52nd annual Country Elevator Conference and Trade Show (CEC) takes place in Louisville, Ky., from Dec. 3-5 at the Omni Louisville Hotel, featuring experts on artificial intelligence, agricultural policy, U.S. transportation, the economy and more. “NGFA committee members and staff have organized a full, timely - [NGFA supports the Innovate FEED Act for novel feed additives](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-6/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 8, 2023 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) supports the introduction of the Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (FEED) Act in the House by Reps. Greg Pence, R-Ind.; Jim Baird, R-Ind.; Kim Schrier, D-Wash; and Angie Craig, D-Minn. “Members of the grain and feed industry thank Reps. Greg Pence, R-Ind.; - [NGFA issues statement on Columbia-Snake River plan](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-34/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 15, 2023 — The Biden administration on Dec. 14 announced a $1 billion plan with environmental groups, four tribal governments and the states of Washington and Oregon meant to address salmon declines in the Columbia and Snake River system. The settlement announcement proposes that the administration help fund and conduct studies on - [NGFA and NAEGA call for immediate reopening of rail corridors at Eagle Pass and El Paso](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-7/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 18, 2023 -- The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and the North America Export Grain Association (NAEGA) issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol’s (CBP) closing this morning of international rail crossings at Eagle Pass and El Paso, Texas. “The NGFA and NAEGA call for the - [NGFA and NAEGA pleased with reopening of rail corridors at Eagle Pass and El Paso](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-and-naega-pleased-with-reopening-of-rail-corridors-at-eagle-pass-and-el-paso/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 22, 2023 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and the North America Export Grain Association (NAEGA) issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol’s (CBP) reopening of international rail crossings at Eagle Pass and El Paso, Texas. “The NGFA and NAEGA are pleased to see - [NGFA urges federal agencies to revise bank capital proposals](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-federal-agencies-to-revise-bank-capital-proposals/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 16, 2024 -- In comments submitted today to federal banking agencies, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) said recent proposals to overhaul bank capital rules would increase costs for accessing cleared derivatives markets. “NGFA’s members and their customers depend on derivatives markets to hedge their risks and central clearing provides agricultural - [STB issues final emergency service order reforms](https://www.ngfa.org/stb-issues-final-emergency-service-order-reforms/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 24, 2024 -- The Surface Transportation Board (STB) today issued final rules that strengthen its power to act during rail service emergencies. The final regulations contain several reforms advocated for and supported by the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA). Proposed by the Board in 2022, the regulations for “expedited relief in - [Lower Snake River dam proposal dangerous for agriculture](https://www.ngfa.org/lower-snake-river-dam-proposal-dangerous-for-agriculture/) - NGFA submits comments to House subcommittee ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 30, 2024 -- In written testimony submitted today to the House Energy and Commerce Energy, Climate, and Grid Security Subcommittee, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) expressed the concerns of the agricultural industry regarding a settlement deal between the Biden administration, state governments, and environmental - [NGFA commends FDA regulatory decision to encourage the development of novel feed products](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-35/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 2, 2024 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) for issuing a decision to revoke a decades-old regulatory policy that has kept innovative feed ingredients from being available to American agriculture. “CVM’s decision is an important step toward - [NGFA announces speaker lineup for 128th annual convention](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-announces-speaker-lineup-for-128th-annual-convention/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 29, 2024 – During the National Grain and Feed Association’s (NGFA) 128th annual convention on March 17-19, top agribusiness leaders will gather at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate in Orlando, Fla., to address upcoming opportunities for agribusiness, conduct annual Association business and celebrate NGFA’s active membership. “Our lineup of agribusiness leaders - [SEC removes Scope 3 requirement in climate reporting rules](https://www.ngfa.org/sec-removes-scope-3-requirement-in-climate-reporting-rules/) - ARLINGTON, Va., March 6, 2024 -- The U.S. Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) voted to finalize a new climate reporting rule without a previously proposed requirement for U.S.-listed companies to disclose Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions. The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) issued the following statement: “Calculating Scope 3 emissions is widely recognized as being - [NGFA announces Chris Boerm, ADM, as NGFA chairman](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-announces-chris-boerm-adm-as-ngfa-chairman/) - The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) is pleased to announce that members have elected Chris Boerm, president of global transportation at Archer Daniels Midland Co. in Decatur, Ill., as NGFA chairman for a one-year term. Boerm previously served as first vice chair and second vice chair before being elected this year as NGFA chairman - [NGFA, ag groups, urge EPA to deny ‘dangerous’ CARB freight rule](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-ag-groups-urge-epa-to-deny-dangerous-carb-freight-rule/) - ARLINGTON, Va., April 5, 2024 -- The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and other members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group urged U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan to deny the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) request to authorize zero emissions standards for freight locomotives in California. The proposed CARB regulations “pose - [NGFA says NASS reports are critical to agribusiness operations](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-says-nass-reports-are-critical-to-agribusiness-operations/) - ARLINGTON, Va., April 17, 2024 -- In a letter to U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) said the county estimates for crops and livestock recently discontinued by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) are critical to the business operations of the grain, feed and processing industry. The U.S. Department - [CONVEY'24: Leading event for grain handling and processing professionals returns to Omaha, Neb.](https://www.ngfa.org/convey24-leading-event-for-grain-handling-and-processing-professionals-returns-to-omaha-neb/) - ARLINGTON, Va., April 26, 2024 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS), and Grain Journal have announced that CONVEY’24 will be held again this year in Omaha, Neb., on July 23-25, 2024. CONVEY‘24 is a unique opportunity for grain handling and processing employees and leaders to gain practical - [NGFA issues statement on STB Chairman Oberman   ](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-issues-statement-on-stb-chairman-oberman/) - ARLINGTON, Va., April 26, 2024 -- Surface Transportation Board (STB) Chairman Martin Oberman announced today that he will retire from the Board on May 10. Chairman Oberman, who took office in January 2019, gave notice in November 2023 that he would not seek renomination to a second term and would depart the agency in early - [STB issues final reciprocal switching rule](https://www.ngfa.org/stb-issues-final-reciprocal-switching-rule/) - ARLINGTON, Va., April 30, 2024 -- The Surface Transportation Board (STB) published its final rules on reciprocal switching for inadequate service. The rules published today provide shippers and receivers captive to a single Class I railroad the opportunity to use Board-directed arrangements to switch to an alternative carrier if the incumbent carrier’s service falls below - [NGFA urges Canadian leaders to avoid rail strike](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-canadian-leaders-to-avoid-rail-strike-2/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 9, 2024 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and 19 other members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group urged Canadian leaders to take action to avoid a rail strike that could begin as soon as May 22. The Teamsters Canada union, which represents 9,000 workers at Canadian National Railway (CN) - [Primus designated as STB chairman](https://www.ngfa.org/primus-designated-as-stb-chairman/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 13, 2024 — President Joe Biden announced the designation of Robert Primus as chairman of the Surface Transportation Board (STB). National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) President and CEO Mike Seyfert issued the following statement: “NGFA congratulates Chairman Primus on his appointment to this well-deserved role. Under his leadership, STB can continue - [NGFA details the dangers of a Canadian rail stoppage](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-details-the-dangers-of-a-canadian-rail-stoppage/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 21, 2024 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) urged the Canadian Industrial Relations Board to take action to avert a rail strike or lockout in comments submitted May 21. Shutdowns or slowdowns of rail-dependent facilities would result “in harmful consequences for Canada’s agricultural producers and industry as well as domestic - [Senate committee advances bipartisan WRDA](https://www.ngfa.org/senate-committee-advances-bipartisan-wrda/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 22, 2024 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works for unanimously advancing the Thomas R. Carper Water Resource Development Act of 2024 (WRDA), which authorizes navigation and ecosystem restoration projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps). NGFA released the - [NGFA issues statement on farm bill advanced by House Ag Committee](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-issues-statement-on-farm-bill-advanced-by-house-ag-committee/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 24, 2024 — The House Agriculture Committee advanced a farm bill that includes several important provisions for the grain, feed and processing industry. The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024 (H.R. 8472) passed out of committee on a 33-21 vote early on May 24. National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) - [NGFA joins Food and Ag-ISAC as industry partner](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-joins-food-and-ag-isac-as-industry-partner/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 30, 2024 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) has joined the Food and Agriculture - Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Food and Ag-ISAC) as an industry partner to increase collaboration between ISAC and the food and agriculture industry on cybersecurity and threat intelligence sharing. “As an Association representing companies throughout - [House appropriations bill includes reinstatement of NASS reports](https://www.ngfa.org/house-appropriations-bill-includes-reinstatement-of-nass-reports/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 12, 2024 — A House appropriations subcommittee approved its Fiscal Year 2025 bill that includes language directing the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) to reinstate all County Estimates for Crops, the July Cattle report and the Cotton Objective Yield Survey. Citing budget constraints, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) NASS announced on - [NGFA, ag groups, spotlight rail capacity concerns in Mexico](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-ag-groups-spotlight-rail-capacity-concerns-in-mexico/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 31, 2024 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group called on U.S. federal officials to address rail service capacity issues in Mexico that are hindering U.S. agricultural trade. Demand for rail service coupled with insufficient investment in rail infrastructure has led to embargoes, - [Senate passes bipartisan WRDA](https://www.ngfa.org/senate-passes-bipartisan-wrda/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 1, 2024 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the Senate for its unanimous passage of the Thomas R. Carper Water Resource Development Act of 2024 (WRDA), which authorizes navigation and ecosystem restoration projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps). The Senate Committee on Environment and Public - [Learning, Networking Highlight CONVEY’24](https://www.ngfa.org/learning-networking-highlight-convey24/) - Grain Journal, GEAPS, NGFA partner for annual conference, tradeshow It was a great year for CONVEY’24 July 23-25 at the Omaha Hilton. With a 17 percent jump in attendees and a 10 percent increase in booths it’s obvious—great things come out of working together. CONVEY is a joint effort of National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), Grain Elevator and Processing - [NGFA to publish new training resources during Harvest Safety Week](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-to-publish-new-training-resources-during-harvest-safety-week/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 15, 2024 – The National Grain and Feed Association’s (NGFA) fifth annual Harvest Safety Week is Aug. 19-23. Each year at the end of August, NGFA dedicates a week to sharing safety resources particularly relevant to the busy harvest season. This year’s theme encourages grain handlers to “Participate, Prepare, Protect,” by participating - [NGFA urges Prime Minister Trudeau to maintain rail operations](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-prime-minister-trudeau-to-maintain-rail-operations/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 19, 2024 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) led members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group in asking Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to maintain railroad operations to “prevent serious damage to the Canadian and U.S. economies.” The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) recently cleared the way for a potential - [NGFA issues statement on Canadian rail shutdown](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-issues-statement-on-canadian-rail-shutdown/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 22, 2024 — As contract negotiations between labor unions and Canadian railroads have reached an impasse, a shutdown of the Canadian National (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Railway systems in Canada has taken effect today, bringing North American agricultural supply chains to a standstill. National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) - [NGFA testifies on opportunities for growth in freight rail](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-testifies-on-opportunities-for-growth-in-freight-rail/) - WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2024 – NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert testified today before the Surface Transportation Board (STB), highlighting growth opportunities in the freight rail industry through effective policy measures and the expansion of domestic production. “USDA’s forecast for growth in grain production and steady export share of grain demand has the potential to - [NGFA calls on administration to avert shipping disruptions](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-calls-on-administration-to-avert-shipping-disruptions-2/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 25, 2024 — In a letter to President Biden sent today, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and 55 organizations called on the U.S. government to act immediately to avert potential disruption at port operations along the East and Gulf Coasts. “As the harvest season gets underway, even the slightest delay - [NGFA leads effort to address a ‘trifecta of transportation trouble’ affecting agriculture](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-leads-effort-to-address-a-trifecta-of-transportation-trouble-affecting-agriculture/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 27, 2024 — Potential disruptions to the nation’s shipping infrastructure could have a devastating effect on American agriculture during this year’s harvest season unless the U.S. government steps in to intervene. That is according to a letter sent today to President Biden by the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and nearly - [NGFA comments on tentative port labor agreement](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-comments-on-tentative-port-labor-agreement/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 3, 2024 – The International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance, Ltd. announced this evening that they have reached a tentative agreement to end the strike that has crippled East and Gulf Coasts ports since Tuesday. The labor contract between to two sides has been extended to Jan. 15, 2025, - [NGFA comments on U.S. presidential election](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-comments-on-u-s-presidential-election/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 6, 2024 – Former President Donald J. Trump was declared the victor of the U.S. presidential election earlier today after he secured enough votes to win the electoral college. Ballots are still being counted, but Trump appears positioned to win the popular vote as well, which would be the first time since - [NGFA comments on Brooke Rollins’ nomination to be Secretary of Agriculture](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-comments-on-brooke-rollins-nomination-to-be-secretary-of-agriculture/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 23, 2024 – President-elect Donald J. Trump announced today that he has nominated Brooke Rollins as the Secretary of Agriculture. Mike Seyfert, the President and CEO of the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), released the following statement. “On behalf of the member companies of the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), I - [Dr. Berit Linnehan Foss joins the National Grain and Feed Association as vice president, feed and sustainability](https://www.ngfa.org/dr-berit-linnehan-foss-joins-the-national-grain-and-feed-association-as-vice-president-feed-and-sustainability/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 4, 2024 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) is pleased to announce that Dr. Berit Linnehan Foss will join the organization as the new Vice President, Feed and Sustainability, effective Dec. 18, 2024. With a career spanning roles in feed, regulatory affairs, quality control and sustainability, Dr. Foss brings a - [Prices, politics, and extreme weather take top billing at NGFA conference](https://www.ngfa.org/prices-politics-and-extreme-weather-take-top-billing-at-ngfa-conference/) - KANSAS CITY, Mo., Dec. 12, 2024 – The U.S. grain and feed industry will have several issues to navigate in 2025, including a difficult rural economy, shifting political realities, and possible extreme weather on the horizon. That’s according to three speakers who addressed more than 500 attendees yesterday at the 53rd Country Elevator Conference (CEC), - [Ambassador Kip Tom and Mexico’s rail leader address NGFA at industry meeting](https://www.ngfa.org/ambassador-kip-tom-and-mexicos-rail-leader-address-ngfa-at-industry-meeting/) - KANSAS CITY, Mo., Dec. 17, 2024 – Ambassador Kip Tom, a key agricultural advisor to President-elect Donald J. Trump, was one of the leaders to address more than 500 members of the grain and feed industry last week at the 53rd Country Elevator Conference (CEC). Tom is an Indiana farmer and formerly served as the - [America’s grain and feed industry praises WRDA passage](https://www.ngfa.org/americas-grain-and-feed-industry-praises-wrda-passage/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 19, 2024 – The U.S. Senate yesterday approved the biennial Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA) by a vote of 97-1. WRDA funds crucial water-related infrastructure projects nationwide under the supervision of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It was approved last week by the House of Representatives - [NGFA congratulates Stephen Vaden on USDA Deputy Secretary nomination](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-congratulates-stephen-vaden-on-usda-deputy-secretary-nomination/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Dec. 23, 2024 – Stephen Vaden, a judge on the Court of International Trade and the former General Counsel at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), has been selected to be the department’s next Deputy Secretary. Mike Seyfert, the President and CEO of the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), released the following congratulatory - [NGFA comments on East and Gulf Coast port labor deal](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-comments-on-east-and-gulf-coast-port-labor-deal/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Jan. 9, 2025 – The International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance, Ltd. released a joint statement yesterday announcing an agreement on a new six-year labor contract. The agreement must be ratified by both sides, but the tentative deal averts a potential strike that threatened to shut down East and Gulf - [NGFA Congratulates Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on Confirmation](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-congratulates-agriculture-secretary-brooke-rollins-on-confirmation/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 13, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) extended its congratulations to Brooke Rollins today on her confirmation as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. Mike Seyfert, NGFA’s President and CEO, released the following statement on behalf of the grain and feed industry. “With her roots in agriculture and extensive leadership experience, - [NGFA Congratulates Howard Lutnick on Commerce Secretary Confirmation](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-congratulates-howard-lutnick-on-commerce-secretary-confirmation/) - ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 19, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) applauded the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Howard Lutnick yesterday as Secretary of Commerce and vowed to work with him to ensure a fair and open trading system for U.S. agriculture. “American agriculture is the most competitive and productive in the world, but our success depends on fair - [America’s grain and feed industry endorses Innovative FEED Act, urges action](https://www.ngfa.org/americas-grain-and-feed-industry-endorses-innovative-feed-act-urges-action/) - ARLINGTON, Va., March 19, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the reintroduction of the Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (FEED) Act. The bill would streamline the regulatory process for non-nutritive animal food ingredients with widespread societal benefits, such as reducing human foodborne illness, improving animal production, and protecting the - [NGFA applauds NASS reinstatement](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-nass-reinstatement/) - ARLINGTON, Va., March 19, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today applauded the National Agricultural Statistics Service's (NASS) decision to reinstate select data collection programs and reports. In April 2024, NASS announced its intention to discontinue the county estimates for crops and livestock, citing budget concerns. Many NGFA members use county estimates to build - [U.S. grain and feed industry opposes proposed export penalties](https://www.ngfa.org/u-s-grain-and-feed-industry-opposes-proposed-export-penalties/) - ARLINGTON, Va., March 24, 2025 – In comments submitted today to the U.S. Trade Representative, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) opposed a government proposal to levy steep fines and restrictions on exporters that use Chinese-made ships. It encouraged the USTR to seek alternative methods to boost U.S. shipbuilding. “Though well intentioned, this proposal - [NGFA, other leading agricultural groups urging Congressional action on Surface Transportation Reauthorization](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-other-leading-agricultural-groups-urging-congressional-action-on-surface-transportation-reauthorization/) - ARLINGTON, Va., April 30, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) has joined with 38 other leading agricultural organizations in a unified call to Congress to prioritize the reauthorization of the nation’s surface transportation programs. In a letter sent today, the groups emphasized the critical role that a modern, efficient, and well-funded transportation system plays - [NGFA applauds U.S.-U.K. trade deal](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-u-s-u-k-trade-deal/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 9, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) applauds the U.S.-U.K. trade agreement announced this week as a significant achievement for American agriculture and a critical step in strengthening transatlantic market access. “We thank the Trump administration for its effort to negotiate increased market access to the United Kingdom for - [NGFA applauds House Agriculture Committee’s work on new farm bill, Chairman Thompson’s leadership](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-house-agriculture-committees-work-on-new-farm-bill-chairman-thompsons-leadership/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 15, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) praised the House Committee on Agriculture for its diligent work in drafting the 2025 Farm Bill framework and expressed appreciation for the leadership of Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson. “The NGFA commends Chairman Thompson and the House Agriculture Committee for their thoughtful and determined - [NGFA urges CFTC to reject 24/7 agricultural futures trading proposal](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-cftc-to-reject-24-7-agricultural-futures-trading-proposal/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 21, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today submitted comments to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in strong opposition to any expansion of agricultural futures trading hours to a 24/7 schedule. The letter responds to the CFTC’s request for comments on the potential implications of round-the-clock derivatives trading. NGFA members—including - [NGFA Applauds Senate Introduction of Innovative FEED Act](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-senate-introduction-of-innovative-feed-act/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 22, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today praised the introduction of the bipartisan Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (FEED) Act in the U.S. Senate, marking a significant step forward in modernizing the regulatory pathway for non-nutritive animal food ingredients. S. 1906 was introduced by Senator Roger Marshall - [America’s grain and feed industry concerned about initial MAHA report](https://www.ngfa.org/americas-grain-and-feed-industry-concerned-about-initial-maha-report/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 22, 2025 – The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission today released a report that outlined potential contributors to chronic disease in children and called for additional research in areas that affect U.S. agriculture. The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) issued the following statement about the report: “The approximately 700 - [NGFA launches 2025 Harvest Safety Week: “Safety First. Harvest Ready.”](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-launches-2025-harvest-safety-week-safety-first-harvest-ready/) - Four new presentations and updated training resources available Aug. 18-22 ARLINGTON, Va., Aug. 14, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) will host its sixth annual Harvest Safety Week on Aug. 18-22, with the 2025 theme, “Safety First. Harvest Ready.” The week will feature new recorded presentations and materials designed to help grain, feed, and - [NGFA statement on proposed Union Pacific, Norfolk Southern rail merger](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-statement-on-proposed-union-pacific-norfolk-southern-rail-merger/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 29, 2025 — The following statement should be attributed to Mike Seyfert, President and CEO of the National Grain and Feed Association. “About 3.2 million rail cars of grains, oilseeds and other agricultural products move by rail on an annual basis, representing more than 10 percent of all rail shipments, and 26 - [NGFA applauds Senate confirmation of Luke Lindberg as USDA trade undersecretary](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-senate-confirmation-of-luke-lindberg-as-usda-trade-undersecretary/) - ARLINGTON, Va., August 2, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the U.S. Senate for confirming Luke Lindberg as undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). “Luke Lindberg brings a strong record of advancing U.S. agricultural exports and forging new market opportunities for American - [NGFA testifies before Senate committee on Grain Standards Act, building on House momentum](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-testifies-before-senate-committee-on-grain-standards-act-building-on-house-momentum/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 29, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today continued its push for timely, bipartisan reauthorization of the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA), testifying before the Senate Agriculture Committee on the importance of preserving and modernizing the nation’s grain inspection system. Testifying on behalf of NGFA’s approximately 700 member companies - [NGFA welcomes U.S.-EU trade agreement framework](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-welcomes-u-s-eu-trade-agreement-framework/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 28, 2025 – President Trump on Sunday announced the framework for a new trade deal with the European Union that reduces tariffs and aims to expand access for U.S. exports, including key agricultural products. The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) released the following statement from its president and CEO, Mike Seyfert: “NGFA - [NGFA releases statement on U.S.-Indonesia trade framework](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-releases-statement-on-u-s-indonesia-trade-framework/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 22, 2025 – The United States and Indonesia today announced the framework for a new trade deal that would include meaningful access for agricultural commodities. The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) applauded the announcement and released the following statement from its president and CEO, Mike Seyfert. “America’s grain and feed industry - [House Agriculture Committee passes key grain inspection bill with NGFA priorities](https://www.ngfa.org/house-agriculture-committee-passes-key-grain-inspection-bill-with-ngfa-priorities/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 22, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the House Agriculture Committee for approving legislation to reauthorize the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA), a foundational law that underpins the nation’s grain inspection and weighing system. “This is a must-pass bill for the entire grain value chain. It plays - [NGFA congratulates Dr. Julie Callahan for Chief Ag Negotiator nomination](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-congratulates-dr-julie-callahan-for-chief-ag-negotiator-nomination/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 17, 2025 – Dr. Julie Callahan, a veteran of the U.S. Trade Representative’s office for nearly a decade, has been selected to be the country’s top trade negotiator for agriculture. Mike Seyfert, the President and CEO of the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA), released the following congratulatory statement. “On behalf of - [NGFA thanks lawmakers for including industry priorities in ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-thanks-lawmakers-for-including-industry-priorities-in-one-big-beautiful-bill/) - ARLINGTON, Va., July 3, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) applauded Congress for including a slate of important agricultural and tax provisions in the recently approved budget reconciliation bill. The package, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” was passed by the U.S. Senate on Tuesday and the House of Representatives today. The - [NGFA grateful that key ag priorities were advanced in Senate budget package](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-grateful-that-key-ag-priorities-were-advanced-in-senate-budget-package/) - ARLINGTON, Va. — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended the U.S. Senate for passing a budget reconciliation bill that contained several critical provisions supporting American agriculture, including enhancements to risk management tools, investments in research, and measures to promote U.S. goods abroad. The bill also extends tax credits to help boost domestic renewable - [NGFA urges swift reauthorization of the Grain Standards Act during House testimony](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-swift-reauthorization-of-the-grain-standards-act-during-house-testimony/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 26, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today reiterated its strong support for timely, bipartisan reauthorization of the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA) during testimony before the House Agriculture Committee. Testifying on behalf of NGFA and its more than 700 member companies, Nick Friant, Director of Raw Material Quality - [NGFA applauds introduction of VARIANCE Act to improve trucking efficiency for grain shipments](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-introduction-of-variance-act-to-improve-trucking-efficiency-for-grain-shipments/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 18, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today expressed strong support for the introduction of the bipartisan Vehicle Axle Redistribution Increases Allow New Capacities for Efficiency (VARIANCE) Act (S. 2108) in the U.S. Senate. Introduced by Senators Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) the bill would amend federal law to allow - [NGFA applauds Trump administration’s action to preserve Lower Snake River dams](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-trump-administrations-action-to-preserve-lower-snake-river-dams/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 13, 2025 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today commended President Donald Trump and his administration for taking decisive action to preserve the Lower Snake River dams, which are a key component of the Pacific Northwest’s transportation and energy infrastructure.In a presidential memorandum signed June 12, President Trump directed federal - [NGFA congratulates Stephen Vaden on Senate Confirmation as USDA Deputy Secretary](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-congratulates-stephen-vaden-on-senate-confirmation-as-usda-deputy-secretary/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 11, 2025 – Stephen Vaden has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. Vaden, a judge on the Court of International Trade and former General Counsel at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), brings deep legal knowledge and public service experience to this leadership role. Mike Seyfert, - [Allison Rivera joins NGFA as vice president, government and legislative affairs](https://www.ngfa.org/allison-rivera-joins-ngfa-as-vice-president-government-and-industry-affairs/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 10, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) is pleased to announce that Allison Rivera will join the Association as vice president, government and legislative affairs, starting June 30. Rivera brings extensive experience in agricultural policy and advocacy, most recently serving for nine years as Executive Director of Government Affairs - [2024 Trade Rules Seminar](https://www.ngfa.org/2024-trade-rules-seminar/) - 2024 Trade Rules Seminar Dates: May 8 – 9, 2024 Location: Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark, St. Louis, MO Register Now NGFA’s Trading, Trade Rules and Arbitration Seminar is a biennial seminar that provides attendees with a primer on contracting principles and trading practices to minimize costly trade disputes and contract non-performance. Designed for those involved - [NGFA publishes new Harvest Safety Week 2024 resources](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-publishes-new-harvest-safety-week-2024-resources/) - NGFA’s fifth annual Harvest Safety Week ended today, Aug. 23! Each year at the end of August, NGFA dedicates a week to sharing safety resources relevant to the busy harvest season. This year’s theme encouraged members to “Participate, Prepare, Protect,” by sharing Harvest Safety Week resources, preparing for hazards during the harvest season, and protecting - [Register for NGFA’s June 18 safety webinar](https://www.ngfa.org/register-for-ngfas-june-18-safety-webinar/) - NGFA will host a grain safety webinar on “Understanding Hazardous Atmospheres in Agriculture” with Joe Mlynek, founder of Progressive Safety Services, LLC, and partner at Safety Made Simple, on June 18 at 1 p.m. ET. During the webinar, Mlynek will discuss hazardous environmental risks associated with agricultural confined spaces. Topics include exposure limits, symptoms, and - [NGFA members conclude annual fly-in](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-members-conclude-annual-fly-in/) - One hundred NGFA members spent several days in Washington, D.C., this week to conduct committee meetings and visit more than 100 lawmakers and congressional offices on Capitol Hill about NGFA priorities. Photos: View the 2024 fly-in photo album. Members of NGFA’s Executive; Business, Merchandising and Operations; Ag Policy and Legislative Affairs; and Trade and Crop - [Recognize Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week participation](https://www.ngfa.org/recognize-stand-up-4-grain-safety-week-participation/) - NGFA joined the Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS), Grain Handling Safety Council (GHSC) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to promote the annual Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week on March 25-29. Resources made available throughout the week are available on standup4grainsafety.org. Certificates: Did you participate in the free virtual learning sessions offered - [More than 650 industry members gather in Orlando for NGFA’s 128th annual convention](https://www.ngfa.org/more-than-650-industry-members-gather-in-orlando-for-ngfas-128th-annual-convention/) - More than 650 industry members gathered in Orlando, Fla., for the NGFA’s 128th annual convention on March 17-19. During the event, NGFA distributed several awards to industry volunteers, conducted business meetings of each of its committees and the Board of Directors, and recognized the results of its most recent election. Photos: View the full photo - [Make the most of networking at NGFA’s annual convention](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-12/) - Hundreds of grain industry members will gather at the Omni Orlando Resort at Championsgate for NGFA’s 128th annual convention on March 17-19. Explore the networking and sponsorship opportunities offered at convention, where attendees conduct NGFA committee business, hear from business leaders and industry experts in two general sessions and the Transportation Open Forum, and spend - [Fitzgerald to join NGFA as director of marketing and member services](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-9/) - NGFA is pleased to announce that Amelia Fitzgerald will join NGFA staff in the newly created role of director of marketing and member services starting March 4. Amelia has served as a senior merchandiser at Benson Hill since 2021. She previously held various roles at Viserion Grain and Bunge from 2016-2021. She grew up in - [NGFF Spotlight: MANRRS Scholarships](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-6/) - The National Grain and Feed Foundation is committed to preparing, supporting, and empowering the next generation of promising leaders as they pursue careers in agriculture. Since 2021, NGFF has partnered with the Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) national society to provide competitive scholarships to exceptional undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers - [Foundation launches year-end fundraising campaign](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-2/) - Every day the National Grain and Feed Foundation (NGFF) goes to work for this industry by:• Promoting safety and health in the workplace and protecting employees,• Supporting research projects that enhance the productivity and safety of members, and• Educating and uplifting the industry’s visibility and reputation.But we cannot do it alone. NGFF needs your support! NGFF is engaging - [NGFA Member Profile – Jean Bratton](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-12/) - Jean Bratton, CEO of Centerra Co-op and member of the NGFA Executive Committee, Board of Directors and Arbitration Appeals Panel, answered some questions about her experience volunteering her time and expertise to the NGFA. NGFA will continue to feature active members of the association in this newsletter. Contact ngfa@ngfa.org with any questions about participating as a - [America’s grain and feed industry concerned about initial MAHA report](https://www.ngfa.org/americas-grain-and-feed-industry-concerned-about-initial-maha-report-2/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 22, 2025 – The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission today released a report that outlined potential contributors to chronic disease in children and called for additional research in areas that affect U.S. agriculture. The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) issued the following statement about the report: “The approximately 700 - [NGFA Applauds Senate Introduction of Innovative FEED Act](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-senate-introduction-of-innovative-feed-act-2/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 22, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today praised the introduction of the bipartisan Innovative Feed Enhancement and Economic Development (FEED) Act in the U.S. Senate, marking a significant step forward in modernizing the regulatory pathway for non-nutritive animal food ingredients. S. 1906 was introduced by Senator Roger Marshall - [NGFA urges CFTC to reject 24/7 agricultural futures trading proposal](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-cftc-to-reject-24-7-agricultural-futures-trading-proposal-2/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 21, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today submitted comments to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in strong opposition to any expansion of agricultural futures trading hours to a 24/7 schedule. The letter responds to the CFTC’s request for comments on the potential implications of round-the-clock derivatives trading. NGFA members—including - [NGFA applauds House Agriculture Committee’s work on new farm bill, Chairman Thompson’s leadership](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-house-agriculture-committees-work-on-new-farm-bill-chairman-thompsons-leadership-2/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 15, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) praised the House Committee on Agriculture for its diligent work in drafting the 2025 Farm Bill framework and expressed appreciation for the leadership of Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson. “The NGFA commends Chairman Thompson and the House Agriculture Committee for their thoughtful and determined - [NGFA applauds U.S.-U.K. trade deal](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-applauds-u-s-u-k-trade-deal-2/) - ARLINGTON, Va., May 9, 2025 – The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) applauds the U.S.-U.K. trade agreement announced this week as a significant achievement for American agriculture and a critical step in strengthening transatlantic market access. “We thank the Trump administration for its effort to negotiate increased market access to the United Kingdom for - [NGFA declares opening of Mid-Mississippi River](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-declares-opening-of-mid-mississippi-river/) - Pursuant to the NGFA Trade Rules, NGFA has declared that the Mid-Mississippi River will open for navigation as of 7:00 a.m. on Monday, March 10. NGFA Barge Freight Trading Rule 18(J) provides as follows: “The Dubuque and South (Mid-Mississippi) opening commences the first 07:00 hours of the first business day after the first empty dry - [NGFA supports Howard Lutnick for Secretary of Commerce](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-supports-howard-lutnick-for-secretary-of-commerce/) - The following statement of support was submitted to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation on Weds., Jan. 29 in support of Howard Lutnick, President Donald Trump’s nominee to be U.S. Secretary of Commerce: The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) supports the nomination of Howard Lutnick to serve as the next U.S. Secretary - [NGFA hits the radio airwaves](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-hits-the-radio-airwaves/) - In a recent Agri-Pulse “Open-Mic” interview, NGFA President & CEO Mike Seyfert highlighted key issues affecting U.S. agriculture as harvest season rolls along. Seyfert expressed relief that East Coast and Gulf ports have reopened after the recent labor strike. “We've got the ports back up and running at a really critical time for U.S. agriculture,” - [AAFCO seeks comments on new feed ingredient approval process](https://www.ngfa.org/aafco-seeks-comments-on-new-feed-ingredient-approval-process/) - The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) announced Oct. 1 that it is seeking stakeholder comment and feedback on a potential new feed ingredient approval process. The new pathway under consideration would replace AAFCO's former Ingredient Definition Request process that sunsetted on October 1, 2024, following the expiration of AAFCO’s Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. - [UPDATE: EU Commission is considering delay of deforestation rule implementation](https://www.ngfa.org/update-eu-commission-is-considering-delay-of-deforestation-rule-implementation/) - Updating last week’s news about the European Union’s (EU) pending Deforestation Regulation, the EU Commission announced on Oct. 2 that it is considering an implementation delay. In a press release, the Commission said, “If approved by the European Parliament and the Council, it would make the law applicable on 30 December 2025 for large companies - [FDA’s restructuring of field operations in effect](https://www.ngfa.org/fdas-restructuring-of-field-operations-in-effect/) - The FDA announced on Oct. 1 that restructuring of its field operations (formerly the Office of Regulatory Affairs and now the Office of Inspections and Investigations or OII) is now in effect. The agency's restructuring of field offices impacts how it oversees all FDA-regulated products, including animal food. The new structure is intended to enhance collaboration between - [USTR and USDA urged to engage with new Mexican administration on trade, GM corn](https://www.ngfa.org/ustr-and-usda-urged-to-engage-with-new-mexican-administration-on-trade-gm-corn/) - A letter sent Oct. 1 from 21 bipartisan members of Congress to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack urged the administration “to engage with the incoming administration in Mexico to address ongoing trade disputes under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), including Mexico’s ban on genetically modified (GM) corn.” Reps. Randy Feenstra - [‘Trifecta of transportation’ challenges spotlighted by short port strike](https://www.ngfa.org/trifecta-of-transportation-challenges-spotlighted-by-port-strike/) - As previewed last week, labor strikes at the East and Gulf Coast ports exacerbated an already challenging situation for NGFA’s members in a mere 72 hours. In a letter sent Sept. 27, NGFA and nearly 200 other organizations and companies urged President Biden to intervene in the stalled labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association and the - [CEC trade show is almost full](https://www.ngfa.org/cec-trade-show-is-almost-full/) - NGFA’s 53rd annual Country Elevator Conference & Trade Show (CEC) will take place Dec. 10-12 in Kansas City, Mo. Companies interested in exhibiting at the industry’s premier event for grain merchants, elevator operators, feed manufacturers, processors, and suppliers should register soon, as only 25 exhibit spots remain on the trade show floor! The CEC attracts - [FDA food facility registration renewal required in 2024](https://www.ngfa.org/fda-food-facility-registration-renewal-required-in-2024/) - Food facilities that manufacture/process, pack or hold food for human or animal consumption in the United States are required to complete the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) biennial registration renewal process this year between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31. Among the facilities required to renew such registrations are grain elevators, feed mills, flour mills, - [NGFA urges administration for help with EU’s pending Deforestation Regulation](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-administration-for-help-with-eus-pending-deforestation-regulation/) - In a letter to the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), NGFA is seeking clarity on the European Union’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which will take effect Jan. 1, 2025. The regulation will affect U.S. grain and oilseed exporters by requiring additional traceability of commodities to ensure they were not produced on - [NGFA urges EPA to reject CARB's proposed truck fleet regulations](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-epa-to-reject-carbs-proposed-truck-fleet-regulations/) - NGFA joined 46 other agribusiness organizations this week in urging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to deny a request from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) regarding stringent new truck fleet regulations. The groups argue that CARB’s proposed regulations would “significantly hinder” the agricultural industry. In a Sept. 16 letter to the EPA, the agribusiness - [NGFA urges Biden to intervene in port labor negotiations](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-biden-to-intervene-in-port-labor-negotiations/) - NGFA joined a coalition of industry groups to call on President Joe Biden to intervene in labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX). The labor contract that oversees all maritime container ports along the East and Gulf coasts is set to expire on Sept. 30 and the - [Member Webinar: Fall Threat Briefing with Food and Ag-ISAC on Sept. 19](https://www.ngfa.org/member-webinar-fall-threat-briefing-with-food-and-ag-isac-on-sept-19/) - Jon Braley, director of the Food and Agriculture-Information Sharing Analysis Center (Food and Ag-ISAC), will present a fall cybersecurity threat briefing for NGFA members on Sept. 19 at 1-2 p.m. EST. The briefing will cover advanced persistent threats (APT) and Nation State motivations, operational technology, supply chain threats, ransomware threats and highlights from the Food - [NGFA publishes ‘Farm Economy Update and Trade Outlook’](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-publishes-farm-economy-update-and-trade-outlook/) - NGFA recently published an update on the agricultural economic landscape, farm income trends and their influence on policy, and a trade analysis and outlook. The document was completed with the help of The Russell Group (TRG), a leading bipartisan government relations firm focused exclusively on food and agriculture public policy that NGFA hired earlier this - [CEC registration is open](https://www.ngfa.org/cec-registration-is-open/) - Registration is open for the NGFA’s 53rd annual Country Elevator Conference and Trade Show (CEC) on Dec. 10-12 in Kansas City, Mo. Confirmed speakers so far include Glenn Spencer, senior vice president of the employment policy division at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Ambassador Kip Tom, farmer and former ambassador to the United Nations Food - [NGFA submits comments on FDA feed ingredient guidances](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-submits-comments-on-fda-feed-ingredient-guidances/) - NGFA submitted statements on Sept. 9 to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding new draft guidances the agency issued due to the pending expiration of its memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). In August, FDA and AAFCO announced the MOU that facilitates their current partnership to - [Grain entrapments decreased in 2023](https://www.ngfa.org/grain-entrapments-decreased-in-2023/) - Purdue University’s Agricultural Safety and Health Program released its “2023 Summary of U.S. Agricultural and Confined-Space Related Injuries and Fatalities” report, which documents a 36 percent decrease in grain entrapments in 2023. There were 27 fatal and non-fatal grain entrapment cases documented in 2023, with 16 being fatal and 11 non-fatal. This was slightly lower - [FDA pesticide residue monitoring report indicates strong compliance with tolerance levels](https://www.ngfa.org/fda-pesticide-residue-monitoring-report-indicates-strong-compliance-with-tolerance-levels/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, Feed The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Sept. 4 released its annual Pesticide Residue Monitoring Program Report for Fiscal Year 2022, detailing the testing of FDA-regulated foods for pesticide residues. The report reveals that the vast majority of samples tested were in compliance with pesticide regulations set - [CEC registration opens Sept. 10](https://www.ngfa.org/cec-registration-opens-sept-10/) - Attendee registration opens on Sept. 10 for the NGFA’s 53rd annual Country Elevator Conference and Trade Show (CEC) on Dec. 10-12 in Kansas City, Mo. NGFA’s flagship meeting for grain merchants, elevator operators, feed manufacturers, processors, and grain industry suppliers attracts several hundred industry members each year for networking, education and the supplier trade show. - [AAFCO annual meeting focuses on feed ingredient approval process      ](https://www.ngfa.org/aafco-annual-meeting-focuses-on-feed-ingredient-approval-process/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, Feed The ingredient definition process for animal feed and pet food ingredients was a major discussion topic at the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Annual Meeting conducted Aug. 7-9 in San Antonio, Texas. In follow-up to announcements made on Aug. 2 that the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) - [NGFA submits statement on FDA medicated feed labeling](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-submits-statement-on-fda-medicated-feed-labeling/) - NGFA submitted a statement to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Aug. 9 concerning the agency’s proposed rule for labeling requirements for approved or conditionally approved new animal drugs. While the proposed rule would create new requirements for labeling animal drug products, it also would significantly expand the required content for final printed - [Committee Spotlight: Sustainability Committee Chair Cory Winstead discusses goals and outlook](https://www.ngfa.org/committee-spotlight-sustainability-committee-chair-cory-winstead-discusses-goals-and-outlook/) - Cory Winstead, the general manager at FS Grain, LLC, is the chair of NGFA’s Sustainability Committee, which met for the first time in March 2024 at the NGFA’s annual convention in Orlando, Fla. NGFA formed the Sustainability Committee at the recommendation of NGFA members and the Committee Structure Task Force. The Association had previously formed - [NGFA urges Canadian government action to prevent rail strike](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-canadian-government-action-to-prevent-rail-strike-2/) - NGFA urged the Canadian government to take action to prevent a potential rail strike or lockout that would lead to shutdowns or slowdowns of rail-dependent facilities. In a letter sent on Aug. 2 to the chairman of the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food in the Canadian House of Commons, NGFA noted that a potential - [Register for Harvest Safety Week webinar on Aug. 20](https://www.ngfa.org/register-for-harvest-safety-week-webinar-on-aug-20/) - Register for the “Best Practices in Onboarding New Employees” webinar during NGFA’s fifth annual Harvest Safety Week on Aug. 19-23! Each year at the end of August, NGFA dedicates a week to sharing safety resources particularly relevant to the busy harvest season. This year’s theme encourages members to “Participate, Prepare, Protect,” by participating in sharing - [FDA and AAFCO end longstanding MOU](https://www.ngfa.org/fda-and-aafco-end-longstanding-mou/) - Updated Aug. 8, 2024 The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) announced on Aug. 2 their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that outlines the two organizations’ responsibilities for defining animal feed ingredients will not be renewed when it expires on Oct. 1, 2024. For the past 17 - [NGFA urges Canadian government action to prevent rail strike](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-canadian-government-action-to-prevent-rail-strike/) - NGFA urged the Canadian government to take action to prevent a potential rail strike or lockout that would lead to shutdowns or slowdowns of rail-dependent facilities. In a letter sent today to the chairman of the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food in the Canadian House of Commons, NGFA noted that a potential strike by - [Cybersecurity group publishes guide for small and medium companies](https://www.ngfa.org/cybersecurity-group-publishes-guide-for-small-and-medium-companies/) - The Food and Agriculture - Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Food and Ag-ISAC) has published a cybersecurity guide detailing cost-effective safety steps for small and medium-sized companies. “Given the interconnected nature of the industry, it is important that companies of all sizes take appropriate steps to secure their technology environments,” the guide notes. “While cybersecurity - [NGFA comments on OSHA emergency response worker proposal](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-comments-on-osha-emergency-response-worker-proposal/) - NGFA joined a coalition of employers in comments submitted to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) outlining concerns about the agency’s proposal to update existing regulations for firefighters and other emergency responders. As noted in the comments submitted on July 22, this rule could impact rural grain handling facilities as many of them depend - [Foundation and NGFA host Harvest Safety Week](https://www.ngfa.org/foundation-and-ngfa-host-harvest-safety-week/) - NGFA’s fifth annual Harvest Safety Week is Aug. 19-23! Each year at the end of August, NGFA dedicates a week to sharing safety resources particularly relevant to the busy harvest season. This year’s theme encourages members to “Participate, Prepare, Protect,” by participating in sharing Harvest Safety Week resources, preparing for hazards during the harvest season - [Ag stakeholders testify on CFTC reauthorization](https://www.ngfa.org/ag-stakeholders-testify-on-cftc-reauthorization/) - House lawmakers considered agricultural stakeholder perspectives on the reauthorization of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) during a House Agriculture Subcommittee hearing on July 25. Congress periodically reauthorizes the CFTC to update the agency’s authorities and recommended spending levels. The last reauthorization of the CFTC occurred during the 2008 Farm Bill and expired in 2013. - [Farm bill coalition appeals to congressional leaders](https://www.ngfa.org/farm-bill-coalition-appeals-to-congressional-leaders/) - NGFA joined more than 500 agriculture and farm groups to urge House and Senate leaders to enact a 2024 farm bill. “If Congress does not come together this year to enact a bipartisan farm bill, the legislative process will begin anew in the 119th Congress…we have concerns that it may not be logistically or politically - [NGFA submits climate-smart ag recommendations to USDA](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-submits-climate-smart-ag-recommendations-to-usda/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, Feed NGFA submitted recommendations on July 25 to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in response to its request for information concerning the effect of “climate-smart agriculture” practices on greenhouse gas (GHG) emission estimates associated with the production of agricultural commodities used as biofuel feedstocks. When announcing the request - [CEC 2024 registration and sponsor opportunities open soon](https://www.ngfa.org/cec-2024-registration-and-sponsor-opportunities-open-soon/) - NGFA’s 53rd annual Country Elevator Conference and Trade Show (CEC) is Dec. 10-12 in Kansas City, Mo. NGFA’s flagship meeting for grain merchants, elevator operators, feed manufacturers, processors, and grain industry suppliers attracts several hundred industry members each year for networking, education and the supplier trade show. Programming at CEC is designed to prepare, teach - [NGFA Members: Communication preferences now available](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-members-communication-preferences-now-available/) - NGFA members can log into their member profiles to select personal communication preferences for issues on which they would like to receive more timely and frequent information from the NGFA. Directions: Log into your member profile using your company email at portal.ngfa.org. Select “Update Your Profile” and “Communication Preferences” to reveal the list of topics - [NGFA’s fifth annual Harvest Safety Week is Aug. 19-23](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfas-fifth-annual-harvest-safety-week-is-aug-19-23/) - NGFA’s fifth annual Harvest Safety Week is Aug. 19-23! Each year at the end of August, NGFA dedicates a week to sharing safety resources particularly relevant to the busy harvest season. This year’s theme encourages members to “Participate. Prepare. Protect.” by participating in sharing Harvest Safety Week resources, preparing for hazards during the harvest season - [Canadian rail labor strike decision expected Aug. 9](https://www.ngfa.org/canadian-rail-labor-strike-decision-expected-aug-9/) - U.S. lawmakers and agricultural shippers are warning that a potential strike by Canadian railroad workers could damage both nations’ economies and have requested that the Canadian government recognize the essential nature of agricultural rail transportation. Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) and Canadian National Railway (CN) workers represented by the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference voted in - [Cybersecurity webinar focuses on threats to food and ag](https://www.ngfa.org/cybersecurity-webinar-focuses-on-threats-to-food-and-ag/) - The Food and Agriculture - Information Sharing and Analysis Center (Food and Ag-ISAC) is hosting a free webinar, “Farm-to-Table Threats: An Overview of the Food and Ag Cybersecurity Landscape,”on July 25 at 2 p.m. ET. Speakers from the Food and Ag-ISAC and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) will discuss current and potential threats to - [Save the Date: NGFA’s Harvest Safety Week is Aug. 19-23](https://www.ngfa.org/save-the-date-ngfas-harvest-safety-week-is-aug-19-23/) - NGFA’s fifth annual Harvest Safety Week is Aug. 19-23! Each year at the end of August, NGFA dedicates a week to sharing safety resources particularly relevant to the busy harvest season. This year’s theme encourages members to “Participate. Prepare. Protect.” by participating in sharing Harvest Safety Week resources, preparing for hazards during the harvest season - [House subcommittee explores CARB zero emissions freight proposal](https://www.ngfa.org/house-subcommittee-explores-carb-zero-emissions-freight-proposal/) - A House Transportation and Infrastructure subcommittee held a hearing this week on the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) request to authorize zero emissions standards for freight locomotives in California. CARB’s “In-Use Locomotive Regulation” mandates that by 2030, only zero-emissions locomotives will be allowed to operate in California. Rail companies in the state also would be - [NGFA and NAEGA say FGIS user fees increase is unsustainable](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-and-naega-say-fgis-user-fees-increase-is-unsustainable/) - In June, the Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) published an interim rule effective July 8 to increase the hourly and unit fees for official inspection services that are performed under the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA). NGFA and the North America Export Grain Association (NAEGA) submitted comments this week urging the FGIS to make adjustments - [NASS country crop reports included in fiscal year 2025 appropriations](https://www.ngfa.org/nass-country-crop-reports-included-in-house-fiscal-year-2025-appropriations/) - Both the House and Senate Appropriations Committees approved their fiscal year 2025 Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies spending bills this week with funding for the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) to resume county crop reports. In a 27-0 vote, the Senate Committee unanimously approved its bill, which provides $27 billion in total - [OSHA publishes heat standard proposal](https://www.ngfa.org/osha-publishes-heat-standard-proposal/) - The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) on July 2 announced the publication of a heat standard proposal that would require employers to develop an injury and illness prevention plan to control heat hazards in workplaces affected by excessive heat. “The nation’s first-ever federal safety standard addressing excessive heat in the workplace,” would apply to - [FDA updates food traceability resources](https://www.ngfa.org/fda-updates-food-traceability-resources/) - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published additional resources on its website to help the industry comply with the Food Traceability Rule. These include: A downloadable, electronic sortable spreadsheet template; Minor revisions to the Food Traceability List clarifying the status of previously frozen foods on the list, as well as a new FAQ - [USDA seeks public input on climate-smart practices for biofuel feedstocks](https://www.ngfa.org/usda-seeks-public-input-on-climate-smart-practices-for-biofuel-feedstocks/) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has initiated a Request for Information (RFI) to gather insights from the public regarding the quantification, reporting, and verification of the impact of climate-smart farming practices on the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with U.S.-grown biofuel feedstock crops. The input is being collected to establish “voluntary standards for biofuel - [CISA reports on Chemical Security Assessment Tool (CSAT) cybersecurity intrusion](https://www.ngfa.org/cisa-reports-on-chemical-security-assessment-tool-csat-cybersecurity-intrusion/) - The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s (CISA) reported that its Chemical Security Assessment Tool (CSAT) was the target of a cybersecurity intrusion by a malicious actor from Jan. 23-24, 2024. CISA notified potentially impacted individuals of the incident and has published on cisa.gov/csat-notification with updates. The agency is hosting two webinars for stakeholders during which - [OSHA issues notice on safety and health of outdoor workers](https://www.ngfa.org/osha-issues-notice-on-safety-and-health-of-outdoor-workers/) - The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently issued an industry-wide notice to help employers and workers with training and resources before exposures to environmental stresses occur. “It is important for employers to consider the impacts of extreme weather on the safety and health of outdoor workers. Increasing average temperatures and changing weather patterns are - [CISA requests industry feedback on cybersecurity services](https://www.ngfa.org/cisa-requests-industry-feedback-on-cybersecurity-services/) - The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) is seeking responses to the Critical Infrastructure Pilot Customer Survey, which will inform the selection of cybersecurity services offered by CISA to critical infrastructure organizations, including agribusinesses. “This survey represents an important opportunity to make your equities and needs known,” CISA stated in an email to critical infrastructure organizations. - [Senate Republicans release farm bill with key NGFA priorities](https://www.ngfa.org/senate-republicans-release-farm-bill-with-key-ngfa-priorities/) - Senate Agriculture Committee Ranking Member John Boozman, R-Ark., on June 11 released a farm bill framework with several NGFA priorities, including increased funding for agricultural export promotion programs and an emphasis on working lands conservation programs. He has not released the bill text, but the 13-page summary includes the following provisions: Maintains the 27-million-acre cap - [FGIS increases user fees](https://www.ngfa.org/fgis-increases-user-fees/) - The Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) on June 6 published an interim rule to increase the hourly and unit fees for official inspection services that are performed under the U.S. Grain Standards Act (USGSA). The new fees will be in effect on July 8, 2024. Under the rule, the hourly contract rate will increase from $41.20 - [NGFA, business groups and lawmakers fight OSHA walkaround rule](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-business-groups-and-lawmakers-fight-osha-walkaround-rule/) - NGFA signed a May 17 letter from the Coalition of Workplace Safety, led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, urging House lawmakers to support a resolution to rescind the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) worker walkaround rule. OSHA published a final rule on April 1 that authorizes OSHA Compliance Safety and Health Officers (CSHO) - [Minnesota committee stops train length bill](https://www.ngfa.org/minnesota-committee-stops-train-length-bill/) - The Minnesota Judiciary Committee chose not to advance a bill that would limit train lengths after hearing testimony from representatives of NGFA and BNSF Railway this month. Tom Wilcox, NGFA’s Transportation Counsel, testified on May 8 before the committee on the legal ramifications of limiting train lengths to 8,500 feet. The committee ultimately agreed that - [FDA provides update on testing dairy products for avian influenza](https://www.ngfa.org/fda-provides-update-on-testing-dairy-products-for-avian-influenza/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, Feed The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on May 20 provided additional information on the agency’s sampling and testing of retail dairy products for viable Highly Pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza (H5N1 HPAI) virus. In a previous update on May 10, FDA had announced that all 297 samples from - [Senate committee advances bipartisan WRDA](https://www.ngfa.org/senate-committee-advances-bipartisan-wrda-2/) - The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works unanimously advanced the Thomas R. Carper Water Resource Development Act of 2024 (WRDA) on May 22, authorizing navigation and ecosystem restoration projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps). “Today’s markup demonstrates the dedication of Chairman Tom Carper, D-Del., and Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., - [Register for next People Spark leadership training by May 24](https://www.ngfa.org/register-for-next-people-spark-leadership-training-by-may-24/) - The deadline to register for the June 2024 leadership program hosted by People Spark Consulting is May 24. NGFA and People Spark Consulting have partnered to further the mission to provide education and training to members at all levels in the agriculture industry. The People Spark Leadership Transformation Program® is a year-long course that focuses - [NGFA urges Canadian leaders to avoid rail strike](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-canadian-leaders-to-avoid-rail-strike/) - NGFA and 19 other Agricultural Transportation Working Group members urged Canadian leaders to take action to avoid a rail strike that could begin as soon as May 22. The Teamsters Canada union, which represents 9,000 workers at Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC), has threatened to strike as they negotiate labor - [Lawmakers ask USDA to reinstate county crop reports](https://www.ngfa.org/lawmakers-ask-usda-to-reinstate-county-crop-reports/) - Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., and House Agriculture Livestock, Dairy and Poultry Subcommittee Chairman Tracey Mann, R-Kan., and Ranking Member Jim Costa, D-Calif., led a May 3 letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack asking him to reinstate county crop reports recently discontinued by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). NGFA worked with other agricultural groups to - [USDA to require HPAI test for moving dairy across state lines](https://www.ngfa.org/usda-to-require-hpai-test-for-moving-dairy-across-state-lines/) - The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced additional actions to further protect the U.S. livestock industry from the threat posed by highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza (HPAI). As detailed in a Federal Order, APHIS will require the following measures, effective Monday, April 29: Mandatory Testing for Interstate Movement of Dairy Cattle: Prior - [USTR testifies on Biden trade policy ](https://www.ngfa.org/ustr-testifies-on-biden-trade-policy/) - U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai testified before the House Ways and Means and the Senate Finance Committee this week about President Biden’s trade policy. Before the hearings, NGFA urged the administration to “recommit to an aggressive trade agenda to meaningfully expand export opportunities for U.S. food and agricultural products.” In the April 15 letter to - [USDA updates information related to H5N1 detections in dairy](https://www.ngfa.org/usda-updates-information-related-to-h5n1-detections-in-dairy/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, Feed The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) this week made a revised Frequently Asked Questions document available related to detections of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) in dairy cows. Among other topics, the document provides information on potential vectors for virus transmission, - [Recording available of NGFA safety webinar on accountability](https://www.ngfa.org/recording-available-of-ngfa-safety-webinar-on-accountability/) - The recording of NGFA’s safety webinar on “Accountability” with Joe Mlynek, founder of Progressive Safety Services, LLC, and partner at Safety Made Simple, is available here. Mlynek discussed several strategies for getting employees to take responsibility for their personal safety and overall team performance. The discussion touched on defining safe behaviors, performance evaluations, and progressive - [NGFA supports tax relief bill](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-supports-tax-relief-bill/) - NGFA joined 33 other agriculture groups to urge Senate leaders to take up the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act, which includes provisions for business expenses and bonus depreciation. “Producers and businesses throughout the food and agriculture industry are facing tax increases today and cannot wait a year or more for relief,” the - [OSHA publishes final worker walkaround rule](https://www.ngfa.org/osha-publishes-final-worker-walkaround-rule/) - The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) on April 1 published its final rule to expand access for third parties to participate as employee representatives in federal workplace inspections. The “Worker Walkaround Representative Designation” rule is effective May 31. The final rule clarifies the rights of employees to authorize a representative – employee or non-employee - [HPAI infection reported in a Texas person exposed to dairy cattle](https://www.ngfa.org/hpai-infection-reported-in-a-texas-person-exposed-to-dairy-cattle/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, Feed The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on April 1 issued a press release indicating that a person in Texas who had exposure to dairy cattle presumed to be infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has tested positive for the virus. CDC reports the person’s - [Register for NGFA’s April 10 safety webinar](https://www.ngfa.org/register-for-ngfas-april-10-safety-webinar/) - NGFA will host a grain safety webinar on “Accountability” with Joe Mlynek, founder of Progressive Safety Services, LLC, and partner at Safety Made Simple, on April 10 at 1 p.m. ET. During the webinar, Mlynek will discuss several strategies for getting employees to take responsibility for their personal safety and overall team performance. The discussion - [OSHA’s worker walkaround rule in final approval stage](https://www.ngfa.org/oshas-worker-walkaround-rule-in-final-approval-stage/) - A rule that would expand access for third parties to participate as employee representatives in federal workplace inspections has completed review at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), meaning the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) could finalize the rule at any time. Once finalized, the “Worker Walkaround Representative Designation” rule will immediately apply - [NGFA urges STB to preserve competition in CN-IANR merger](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-urges-stb-to-preserve-competition-in-cn-ianr-merger/) - In comments submitted on March 29 to the Surface Transportation Board (STB), NGFA said it does not oppose the Canadian National Railway Company’s (CN) proposed acquisition of Iowa Northern Railway Company (IANR) but urged STB to condition any approval of CN’s application on actions to preserve competition and customer service. NGFA outlined several conditions that - [CISA proposes federal rules for cyber incident reporting](https://www.ngfa.org/cisa-proposes-federal-rules-for-cyber-incident-reporting/) - The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) on March 27 published a proposed rule to require critical infrastructure companies to report significant cyberattacks within 72 hours and ransom payments within 24 hours. All critical infrastructure entities — including the food and agriculture sector — are covered by the proposal, other - [NGFA Update: HPAI detected in Texas, Kansas dairy cattle](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-update-hpai-detected-in-texas-kansas-dairy-cattle/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, Feed The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on March 25 announced that unpasteurized, clinical samples of milk from sick cattle collected from two dairy farms in Kansas and one in Texas, as well as an oropharyngeal swab from another dairy in Texas, have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian - [CISA, FBI warn of attacks by ransomware group](https://www.ngfa.org/cisa-fbi-warn-of-attacks-by-ransomware-group/) - As part of the #StopRansomware campaign, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) published an advisory on the Play (or Playcrypt) ransomware group. Since June 2022, Play has impacted a wide range of businesses and critical infrastructure in North America, South America, and Europe, the advisory said. As of - [Senators urge Biden administration to expand ag trade](https://www.ngfa.org/senators-urge-biden-administration-to-expand-ag-trade/) - In a March 13 letter to U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, 22 Republican senators urged the Biden administration to increase U.S. agricultural exports and improve the competitiveness of U.S. products abroad. “We write to express deep concern with the continued erosion of critical markets for U.S. agricultural exports,” wrote the - [Declaration of the Opening of the Mid-Miss](https://www.ngfa.org/declaration-of-the-opening-of-the-mid-miss/) - Pursuant to NGFA Barge Freight Trading Rule 18(J), the special three-person committee officially declared the opening of the Mid-Mississippi River for navigation this year as of 7 a.m. on March 12, after the MV Philip M. Pfeffer reached Dubuque at 02:27 a.m. on March 12, with at least one empty dry cargo covered barge suitable - [NGFA finalizes speaker lineup for 128th annual convention](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-finalizes-speaker-lineup-for-128th-annual-convention/) - During NGFA’s 128th annual convention on March 17-19, NGFA members and leaders will gather at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate to address upcoming opportunities for agribusiness, conduct annual Association business and celebrate NGFA’s active membership. View the convention schedule, which includes information on NGFA business meetings, the golf tournament to benefit the National Grain - [Joe Mlynek to host 2024 safety webinars](https://www.ngfa.org/joe-mlynek-to-host-2024-safety-webinars/) - Joe Mlynek, founder of Progressive Safety Services, LLC, and partner at Safety Made Simple, will host several grain safety webinars throughout 2024 as part of a new partnership with the NGFA. Webinar topics and dates are “Accountability” on April 10, “Hazardous Atmospheres in Confined Spaces” on June 18 and “Serious Injury and Fatalities (SIFs) in - [NGFA endorses Fuchs for STB](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-endorses-fuchs-for-stb/) - NGFA led 24 other agricultural groups to endorse the confirmation of Patrick Fuchs for another term at the Surface Transportation Board (STB) in a letter to leaders of the Senate Commerce Committee. In the Feb. 29 letter to Chairwoman Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., and Ranking Member Ted Cruz, R-Texas, the groups praised Fuchs’ “deep understanding of - [NGFA announces election and ballot results](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-announces-election-and-ballot-results/) - By Charlie Delacruz, Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary NGFA is pleased to announce the results of the ballot distributed to voting NGFA member companies on Feb. 20 for the election of NGFA’s directors and industry officers and the ratification of amendments to NGFA’s Bylaws, Rail Arbitration Rules and Trade Rules. The vote by - [Feed training courses available on NGFA website](https://www.ngfa.org/feed-training-courses-available-on-ngfa-website/) - Five feed distance learning courses that address animal food safety and operations issue s are now available on the Training section of NGFA’s website. The five courses are web-based, self-paced, interactive, and accessible anytime. Topics addressed by the courses are: 1) medicated feed current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs); 2) Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)-related animal - [NGFA supports bill to nullify GHG emissions rule](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-supports-bill-to-nullify-ghg-emissions-rule/) - NGFA supported legislation recently introduced in the House and Senate that would nullify the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) rule imposing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions performance measures on state departments of transportation. The bill, introduced by Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas; Kevin Cramer, R-N.D.; and Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va.; and Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., addresses - [Lawmakers introduce federal pet food labeling bill](https://www.ngfa.org/lawmakers-introduce-federal-pet-food-labeling-bill/) - House lawmakers on Feb. 15 introduced a bill supported by the Pet Food Institute that would provide the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with exclusive regulatory authority over the marketing and labeling of dog and cat food products. The Pet Food Uniform Regulatory Reform Act of 2024 (H.R.7380), sponsored by Reps. Jake LaTurner, R-Kan.; - [NGFA announces new CAP class](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-announces-new-cap-class/) - NGFA accepted the following 36 individuals into its 2024-25 class of the Committee Apprentice Program (CAP). Congratulations!• Megan Dickard, Tyson Foods• Adam Gerdes, Consolidated Grain and Barge• Mackenzie Lewis, CoBank• Martin Griffith, Pacificor LLC• Andy Wellsandt, Ritzville Warehouse Co.• Brett Harrison, Morrow County Grain Growers, Inc.• Wyatt Saeugling, POET Grain• Rudy Weitze, Columbia Grain• Patrick - [NGFA urges global unification on maritime safety in the Red Sea](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-10/) - The NGFA signed an open letter calling on countries to align with a mission to support safe maritime commerce in the Red Sea, where terrorist attacks have caused more than $80 billion in cargo to be diverted around the Cape of Good Hope.More than 100 organizations whose members depend on safe and secure ocean shipping - [Senate bill would prevent closures of U.S.-Mexico rail crossings](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-11/) - Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, introduced a bill that would prevent any future shutdowns of rail crossings between the U.S. and Mexico. The Keeping International Land Ports of Entry Open Act, introduced on Feb. 8 with Sens. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb.; Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn.; and Rick Scott, R-Fla., as co-sponsors, requires that Department of Homeland Security staff - [Help Wanted: Foreign Ag Labor Solutions](https://www.ngfa.org/help-wanted-foreign-ag-labor-solutions/) - By Kristi Boswell, Counsel, Alston & BirdThis guest column follows Boswell’s presentation at NGFA’s Country Elevator Conference and Trade Show (CEC) in Louisville, Ky., on Dec. 4, 2023. This article is intended to be informational and does not constitute legal advice regarding any specific situation. Private and cooperative facilities are struggling to find enough local - [NGFA supports bipartisan cybersecurity bills](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-supports-bipartisan-cybersecurity-bills/) - NGFA endorsed a pair of bipartisan, bicameral bills that would strengthen cybersecurity for the food and agriculture industry. The Farm and Food Cybersecurity Act, introduced by Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand, D- N.Y., and Tom Cotton, R-Ark.; and Reps. Brad Finstad, R- Minn., and Elissa Slotkin, D- Mich., would direct the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to - [AAFCO conducts 2024 Midyear Meeting](https://www.ngfa.org/aafco-conducts-2024-midyear-meeting/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, Feed More than 450 industry representatives and regulatory officials participated on Jan. 23-25 in the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Midyear Meeting to discuss a variety of animal food regulatory issues. The meeting was conducted in Chattanooga, Tenn. In a significant development, the Ingredient Definition Committee during - [NGFA publishes new guidance document for OSHA recordkeeping rule](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-publishes-new-guidance-document-for-osha-recordkeeping-rule/) - NGFA published a new guidance document to provide members with an overview of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) final amended e-recordkeeping rule for injury and illness that took effect on Jan. 1, 2024. The OSHA Electronic Recordkeeping Rule Guidance Document provides an outline of important issues related to injury and illness data that - [NGFA urges federal agencies to reconsider bank capital proposals](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-7/) - In comments submitted on Dec. 11 to federal banking agencies, NGFA and eight other agricultural groups said recent proposals to overhaul bank capital rules would have unintended consequences for the U.S. derivatives markets and make hedging more expensive for all market participants.“We are very concerned that any contraction in the availability of clearing services will have a - [NGFA announces new staff roles](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-4/) - NGFA recently hired a new addition to its staff as well as made title changes for current staff members. They include: Trent Baker has been hired to fill the newly created role of Manager, Systems and Office Operations. He most recently worked at the Food Processing Suppliers Association. In this new role, Baker is responsible for all - [NGFA opposes OSHA proposal on third-party access to inspections](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-5/) - In comments submitted Nov. 13 to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the NGFA joined a coalition of agriculture and business groups to urge OSHA to withdraw a proposal that would expand access for third parties to participate as employee representatives in OSHA inspections.“In several ways, the proposal significantly expands the scope of individuals who can - [Moist grain poses safety hazards during storage](https://www.ngfa.org/moist-grain-poses-safety-hazards-during-storage/) - NGFA members in the Midwest are reporting high levels of moisture in this year’s corn harvest. This is an important reason for industry members to share and be aware of resources regarding the connection between grain quality and safety in grain handling. Entrapment in grain bins and dryer fires are two potential hazards related to high - [FDA proposes to revoke use of carbadox in medicated swine feed](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-2/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, FeedThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Nov. 7 announced the agency is revoking the approved method for detecting residues of carbadox, a new animal drug used in swine feed that has been shown to be carcinogenic in laboratory animals. An approved method is required by the Federal Food, Drug, - [NGFA comments on STB’s reciprocal switching proposal](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-3/) - NGFA submitted comments on Nov. 7 in response to the Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) most recent proposal on reciprocal switching rules for inadequate service.In its comments, NGFA supported the Board’s data-sharing proposal that has the potential to both inform and incentivize railroad performance if the service data is regularly shared with shippers.However, the Association recommended the Board - [FDA proposes to revoke use of carbadox in medicated swine feed](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-3/) - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Nov. 7 announced the agency is revoking the approved method for detecting residues of carbadox, a new animal drug used in swine feed that has been shown to be carcinogenic in laboratory animals. An approved method is required by the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to show that - [NGFA comments on FDA recall modernization](https://www.ngfa.org/ngfa-11-02-2023/) - NGFA submitted comments to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding its proposal to modernize recalls of FDA-regulated commodities. “NGFA believes there are opportunities to modernize FDA’s policies and practices to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of recalls by enhancing the consistency, transparency, and communications associated with its recall processes,” NGFA noted. Among its - [USDA releases assessment on agriculture in carbon markets](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-4/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, FeedThe U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) on Oct. 23 released a comprehensive review of current carbon market activity, barriers to participation, and opportunities to improve access to carbon markets for farmers and forest landowners titled “A General Assessment of the Role of Agriculture and Forestry in the U.S. Carbon - [NGFA urges DOL to withdraw proposed overtime rule](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-5/) - NGFA joined 86 other organizations representing private, public, nonprofit, and educational entities in a letter to House and Senate lawmakers requesting that they urge the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Wage and Hour Division to withdraw its proposed overtime pay regulations. DOL has proposed to increase the minimum salary level that an employee must receive to be exempt from federal - [FDA report indicates compliance with food pesticide tolerance levels](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-6/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, FeedThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today issued its annual Pesticide Residue Monitoring Program Report for Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 that summarizes the testing of FDA-regulated foods for pesticide residues, with results showing the vast majority of samples being in compliance with pesticide tolerances established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The - [USDA enrolls 23 million acres in CRP](https://www.ngfa.org/usda-enrolls-23-million-acres-in-crp/) - The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced on Oct. 16 that it paid landowners more than $1.77 billion in 2023 for the more than 23 million acres of private land in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). CRP has grown by 21 percent in terms of acres enrolled since 2021, USDA said, but the program remains below - [Progressive Safety Services LLC takes consulting role with NGFA](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-7/) - NGFA is pleased to announce a consulting agreement with Progressive Safety Services, LLC operated by Joe Mlynek, who also serves as a partner with Safety Made Simple.Progressive Safety Services, LLC will work with NGFA on a project-by-project basis to review and update NGFA safety programs; create new training materials; provide safety webinars; and assist with regional - [NGFA announces full CEC program](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-8/) - NGFA this week announced the full slate of programming for the upcoming Country Elevator Conference and Trade Show (CEC). CEC, NGFA’s flagship conference for grain merchants, elevator operators, feed manufacturers, processors, and grain industry suppliers, attracts several hundred industry members each year for networking, education, and a supplier trade show. CEC 2023 will be held at the - [October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-9/) - Founded in 2004, Cybersecurity Awareness Month, held each October, is an online safety awareness and education initiative co-managed by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the National Cybersecurity Alliance.Starting this year, the new theme of Cybersecurity Awareness Month is Secure Our World, with the main messaging revolving around four key cybersecurity best practices:1. Understanding - [NGFA submits comments on OSHA heat rule](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-10/) - By Jess McCluer, Vice President, Safety and Regulatory Affairs The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is in the process of finalizing a proposed rule on Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings. NGFA submitted comments to OSHA on Oct. 3 reiterating opposition to any broad federal regulation on heat. On May 31, - [FDA announces Animal and Veterinary Innovation Agenda](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-11/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, FeedThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Sept. 15 announced the agency is taking new steps to modernize its approach to evaluating and supporting the development of innovative animal and veterinary products, to increase regulatory flexibility, predictability and efficiency.The Animal and Veterinary Innovation Agenda released by FDA lists four objectives - [STB publishes rule notice on competitive switching](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-13/) - The Surface Transportation Board (STB) on Sept. 7 issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) for competitive (or “reciprocal”) switching rules.NGFA is reviewing the proposal with its members and will submit formal comments on the NPRM by the Oct. 23 deadline. “The Board views today’s NPRM as an important step in addressing the many freight rail service concerns - [House lawmakers push NOAA for Snake River dam report records](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-14/) - Republicans on the House Natural Resources Committee sent an Aug. 22 letter to the Commerce Department and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) regarding their investigation into the agencies’ handling of a report on the lower Snake River dams (LSRD). NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) issued a report in September 2022 declaring that breaching the dams - [Advisory council recommends preparing for ‘rapidly evolving’ water crisis](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-15/) - A new report from the President’s National Infrastructure Advisory Council (NIAC) advises the Biden administration to develop an investment plan for locks and dams, among several recommendations to address water crises that “threaten the security and resilience of our nation’s critical infrastructure.”The report said it is important to replace aging locks with larger dual locks on the - [NGFA supports CFTC changes to large trader reporting requirements](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-16/) - In comments submitted to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) this week, NGFA asked the agency to publish daily Commitments of Traders (COT) reports and to reduce the three-day lag between data collection and report publication. CFTC proposed revisions to the large trader position reporting requirements for futures and options in the June 27 Federal Register. The large trader - [AAFCO approves new pet food label rules at annual meeting](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104-19-4-8/) - By David Fairfield, Senior Vice President, FeedNearly 450 industry representatives and regulatory officials participated on July 31 – Aug. 2 in the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Annual Meeting to discuss a variety of animal food regulatory issues. The meeting was conducted in Baltimore, Md.In a significant action, AAFCO membership during the meeting - [NGFA submits comments to House subcommittee on benefits of lower Snake River dams](https://www.ngfa.org/elementor-77104/) - ARLINGTON, Va., June 26, 2023 — The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today submitted written comments to the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries detailing the benefits of the lower Snake River dams to the agricultural industry. The subcommittee’s oversight field hearing in Richland, Wash., at 1 pm PDT will focus on the multipurpose ## Pages - [Home](https://www.ngfa.org/) - Your browser does not support the video tag. Transforming America's Harvest for 129 years...and counting BECOME A MEMBER The Voice of America’s Grain and Feed Industry and Feed Association Representing approximately 700 companies and thousands of facilities from coast to coast, NGFA encompasses all sectors of the grain and feed industry – from Fortune 500 - [Committees](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/) - Committees A Grassroots Organization, NGFA is Governed by its Members Our 15 committees give members a seat at the table to drive decisions and deliver results by shaping policy, guiding technical work, and speaking with a united voice. Comprised of more than 300 volunteers representing every segment of the grain, feed, processing, and export value - [Ag Policy and Legislative Affairs Chart](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/ag-policy-and-legislative-affairs-chart/) - Ag Policy and Legislative Affairs Chart Committee Members Mission: Serve as a unified voice for the industry in advocacy efforts, specifically related to regulatory and legislative issues and as the principal committee involved in the Farm Bill. Collaborate across NGFA committees to coordinate advocacy efforts with regulatory and legislative bodies. Ag Policy and Legislative Affairs - [Events](https://www.ngfa.org/events-news/events/) - Events Bringing together professionals from the grain, feed, and agribusiness sectors. Harvest Safety Week 2026 FacebookTwitterLinkedinEmail View Detail August 26, 2026 Webinar Member Webinar: New Member Orientation FacebookTwitterLinkedinEmail View Detail September 15 - 17, 2026 Kansas State University Training NGFA–KSU Food Safety Modernization Act Feed Industry Training Manhattan, KS FacebookTwitterLinkedinEmail View Detail September 24 - - [Legal Council](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/legal-council/) - Legal Council Committee Members Mission: Provide input and strategies on legal issues of industrywide importance. Create a forum for legal experts to learn and share information about legal developments affecting the industry, specifically those affecting NGFA-member companies. Legal Council Committee Chairperson: Quinn Kulik, J.D. Heiskell Staff Liaison: Charlie Delacruz, General Counsel and Secretary Name Title - [Transportation and Logistics](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/transportation-and-logistics/) - Transportation and Logistics Committee Members Mission: Lead legislative and regulatory efforts that affect rail, motor, and water transportation and logistics of grain, oilseeds, feed and products derived from grains and oilseeds. Provide focused efforts on each mode of transportation to increase product movement, eliminate service issues, enable cost-effective transport, and improve infrastructure. Support the NGFA’s - [Trade Rules Committee](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/trade-rules-committee/) - Trade Rules Committee Committee Members Mission: Maintain and update the NGFA’s Grain Trade Rules, Feed Trade Rules, Barge Trade Rules, Barge Freight Trading Rules, and Secondary Rail Freight Trading Rules to reflect current trade practice. Ensure the NGFA Trade Rules provide a solid foundation for the NGFA’s Arbitration System and adequately facilitate trading of grains, - [Trade and Crop Technology](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/trade-and-crop-technology/) - Trade and Crop Technology Committee Members Mission: Advocate for policies that promote sustained economic growth for all sectors of U.S. agriculture. Address U.S. regulatory and international trade developments including the use of innovative technologies that affect NGFA members. Serve as a forum for discussions with technology providers about their pipelines and commercialization plans, as well - [Sustainability](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/sustainability/) - Sustainability Committee Members Mission: Help create a more resilient and sustainable future for North American grain and feed supply chains. Advance food security, resource optimization and economic growth for NGFA’s members in a rapidly changing world via knowledge sharing, partnerships, and influencing domestic and global policy as it relates to sustainability. Sustainability Committee Chairperson: Cory - [Safety, Health and Environment Committee](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/safety-health-and-environment-committee/) - Safety, Health and Environment Committee Committee Members Mission: Serve as a liaison with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency on issues important to NGFA members. Develop regulatory compliance guidance and education/training materials for industry use to enhance workplace and employee safety and health, and the environment. Safety, Health and Environment - [Risk Management](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/risk-management/) - Risk Management Committee Members Mission: Serve as a liaison with the commodity exchanges and futures markets on issues important to NGFA members and commercial hedgers. Promote the adoption of policies that create an environment where cash and futures markets can remain efficient, sound and viable for agricultural users and commercial hedgers. Address issues concerning new - [Grain Grades and Weights Committee](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/grain-grades-and-weights-committee/) - Grain Grades and Weights Committee Committee Members Mission: Develop and preserve inspection and weighing practices that facilitate timely, orderly, fair, safe, and economical grain marketing responses to customer needs. Provide input to Congress and the U.S. Department of Agriculture on official grain standards as well as inspection and weighing practices that are accurate and consistently - [Feed Committee](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/feed-committee/) - Feed Committee Committee Members Mission: Represent the interests of feed, pet food and feed ingredient manufacturers and livestock and poultry integrators. Address federal, state and international legislative and regulatory issues. Improve operational effectiveness by addressing issues, and advancing technological developments and innovations, related to product safety, quality, production and manufacturing technology. Feed Committee Chairperson: Chris - [Business, Merchandising and Operations Committee](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/business-merchandising-and-operations-committee/) - Business, Merchandising and Operations Committee Committee Directory Mission: Represent the interests of grain and oilseed handling facilities and the farmers they serve. Advise on cross-cutting issues including operations, merchandising, future market performance, grain grading and inspection, transportation, safety, health and environment issues, agricultural biotechnology, and industry education and training needs. Serve as the voice for - [Staff & Board Members](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/staff/) - Meet the Team Staff & Board Members Brian Schouvieller Chairman CHS Inc. St. Paul, Minn. READ BIO Augusto Bassanini First Vice Chairman United Grain Corporation Vancouver, Wash. READ BIO Jason Klootwyk Second Vice Chairman Agtegra Cooperative Aberdeen, S.D. READ BIO Executive Committee Roster Board of Director Roster NGFA Staff Mike Seyfert President and Chief Executive - [Fact Sheets](https://www.ngfa.org/advocacy/fact-sheets/) - Fact Sheets Fact Sheets National Grain and Feed Association. Transforming America's Harvest About USGSA Transforming America’s Harvest Download Fact Sheet Farm Bill Advocating for working lands conservation and strong risk management tools like crop insurance. Download Fact Sheet Transportation Calling for smarter trucking rules, reliable rail service, and infrastructure investment. Download Fact Sheet International Trade - [Rail Arbitration Rules Committee](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/rail-arbitration-rules-committee/) - Rail Arbitration Rules Committee Committee Members Mission:Ensure proper application of NGFA’s Rail Arbitration Rules to address rail service-related disputes and issues between shippers and carriers. Maintain equal representation from rail carriers and shippers/receivers. Recommend rule changes to the NGFA membership as needed. Rail Arbitration Rules Committee Chairperson: Ted Johnson, CSX Transportation Co. Staff Liaisons: Charlie - [Arbitration Decisions](https://www.ngfa.org/arbitration-trade-rules/arbitration-decisions/) - Arbitration Decisions Arbitration Decisions Directory Search Arbitrations and Review Arbitration Decisions Arbitration Decisions — beginning with case no. 1400 from year 1946 — are available online through the numbers to the left. 3100-3199 Case Number 3160 –1/12/2026 – Default Judgment Attebury Grain, LLC v. NORAG LLC Case Number 3158 –12/15/2025 Bruce Findlay v. Cooperative Elevator - [Committee Apprentice Program](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/committee-apprentice-program/) - Committee Apprentice Program Apply for the CAP Year #2 Class of '27! Application Deadline Extended Until May 22, 2026! Learn More and Apply for CAP Year #2 Last Department(Required)Please choose which department you'd like to contact: Select DepartmentMembershipCommitteesAdvocacyEvents & NewsGeneralOrganizationEmail(Required) Enter Email Confirm Email Comments(Required)How can we help you? Submit - [Priviledged & Confidential - EC](https://www.ngfa.org/priviledged-confidential-ec/) - Restricted Content Login Required You must be a member to view this. Please login to view. LOGIN - [Arbitration Appeals Panel](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/arbitration-and-appeals-panel/) - Arbitration Appeals Panel Committee Members Mission: Provide a fair, cost-effective and timely way to resolve disputes involving grain, oilseed, feed, barge, barge freight and rail freight transactions. Administer the compulsory system for resolution of disputes between Active members under the NGFA’s Bylaws, and to resolve disputes involving Active, Allied and Transportation members if NGFA Arbitration - [Cybersecurity](https://www.ngfa.org/cybersecurity/) - Resources Cybersecurity Cyberattacks not only are increasing in frequency, but they are costing victims larger financial losses. As noted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): “Malware distributors have gotten increasingly savvy, and you need to be careful about what you download and click.” Please review the resources below that are particularly relevant to the - [Careers](https://www.ngfa.org/careers/) - Careers Work At NGFA The National Grain and Feed Association, founded in 1896, is a broad-based, non-profit trade association that represents and provides services for grain, feed and related commercial businesses. Its activities focus on enhancing the growth and economic performance of U.S. agriculture. The NGFA focuses on member interests through representation, training, communication and - [Newsletters](https://www.ngfa.org/newsletters/) - Restricted Content Login Required You must be a member to view this. Please login to view. LOGIN - [Arbitration & Trade Rules](https://www.ngfa.org/arbitration-trade-rules/) - Arbitration & Trade Rules Tools Members Trust NGFA members don’t just benefit from strong policy advocacy – they also rely on the Association’s resources to conduct business with clarity, confidence, and efficiency. These resources help power the grain and feed supply chain and are central to NGFA’s mission of supporting a competitive and transparent marketplace. - [Trade Rules](https://www.ngfa.org/trade-rules/) - NGFA Trade Rules The five sets of the NGFA Trade Rules facilitate the purchase and sale of grain and feed products. They provide a framework for the trade and a foundation for resolution of disputes under the NGFA Arbitration System. Booklets GRAIN DOWNLOAD BOOKLET FEED DOWNLOAD BOOKLET BARGE DOWNLOAD BOOKLET BARGE FREIGHT DOWNLOAD BOOKLET SECONDARY - [Trade Rules Seminar](https://www.ngfa.org/events-news/traderulesseminar/) - Trading, Trade Rules, and Arbitration Seminar Master the Rules. Minimize Risk. Maximize Confidence. Join NGFA in Kansas City April 21-23. Register for the Seminar Sponsor the Seminar Sponsoring NGFA’s Trade Rules Seminar is a unique opportunity to align your company with one of the most respected educational events in the grain, and feed industries. This - [File a complaint](https://www.ngfa.org/arbitration-trade-rules/file-a-complaint/) - File a Complaint Do you need to file a Complaint? The first thing required is the submission of a complaint to the NGFA Secretary. Complaint Form 1400 Crystal Drive, Suite 260, Arlington, VA 22202 To File a Complaint The first thing required is the submission of a complaint to the NGFA Secretary. The rules require - [BOARD REPORT 3.26](https://www.ngfa.org/board-report-page-march-2026/) - Restricted Content Login Required You must be a member to view this. Please login to view. LOGIN - [Industry Impact](https://www.ngfa.org/industry-impact/) - INDUSTRY IMPACT The Harvest Economy America’s grain and feed industry makes a positive economic contribution to every state and every congressional district in the country. Nationwide, there are 9,683 grain and feed facilities that help create 1.16 million U.S. jobs and generate $401.7 billion in economic impact. See how we benefit your state on the - [Annual Convention](https://www.ngfa.org/events-news/annualconvention/) - 130th Annual Convention NGFA’s Premier Event for the Grain, Feed, and Processing Industry Join NGFA in Nashville. Registration is now open! Event Agenda Register Now Transportation Open Forum 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Patrick Fuchs Chairman, Surface Transportation Board Co-Founder, BulkLoads Jennifer Armstrong Vice President, Government Affairs, Waterways Council Inc. Monday March 23, 2026 Opening - [CEC Events](https://www.ngfa.org/events-news/cec-events/) - CEC NGFA's Flagship Meeting for Grain Industry Professionals Save the Date for CEC 2026 | Dec. 8-10, St. Louis, Mo. View CEC 2025 Agenda View CEC 2025 Event Photos Sponsor CEC There is a sponsorship to fit every marketing budget and goal. CEC 2025 sponsorships offer a wide range of sponsor benefits including pre, post, - [Safety](https://www.ngfa.org/resources/safety/) - Safety Protecting People. Promoting a Safer Industry. NGFA is committed to advancing safety practices that protect the lives and livelihoods of those working across the grain, feed, and processing supply chain. Through tip sheets, training videos, and practical guidance, we help companies build safer workplaces and comply with federal safety regulations. Safety Tip Sheets The - [Feed](https://www.ngfa.org/resources/feed-2/) - Feed Supporting Safe, Responsible, and Innovative Feed Production NGFA works to advance policies and practices that ensure the safe production of animal food while supporting a robust, science-based regulatory framework. Our resources and advocacy help members navigate complex regulations, maintain high standards of safety and quality, keep livestock and pets healthy, and strengthen the integrity - [Member Login](https://www.ngfa.org/protected-content-login/) - Restricted Content Login Required You must be a Member to view the requested file. Please login to view. LOGIN - [About Us](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/) - ABOUT NGFA Trusted. Connected. Effective. Since 1896, we’ve advanced the success of America’s grain, feed, processing, and export industry through advocacy, training, communication, and education. Our mission: promote an open market and efficiently provide a safe, abundant, affordable, sustainable, and wholesome supply of grain, oilseeds, feed, and related products. READ OUR LATEST REPORT Membership NGFA’s - [Profile](https://www.ngfa.org/profile/) - MEMBER Profile Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [My Meetings](https://www.ngfa.org/profile/my-meetings/) - MEMBER Profile Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [Committees](https://www.ngfa.org/profile/committees/) - MEMBER Profile Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [My Committees](https://www.ngfa.org/profile/my-committees/) - MEMBER Profile Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [My Company Committee Meetings](https://www.ngfa.org/profile/my-company-committee-meetings/) - MEMBER Profile Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [My Orders](https://www.ngfa.org/profile/my-orders/) - MEMBER Profile Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [Upcoming Charges](https://www.ngfa.org/profile/upcoming-charges/) - MEMBER Profile Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [Member Companies](https://www.ngfa.org/profile/member-companies/) - MEMBER Profile Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [Member Directory](https://www.ngfa.org/profile/member-directory/) - MEMBER Profile Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [Member Login](https://www.ngfa.org/login/) - MEMBER LOGIN Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [Upcoming Events](https://www.ngfa.org/profile/upcoming-events/) - MEMBER Profile Home Events Upcoming Meetings My Meetings Committees My Committees My Company Committee Members My Orders Upcoming Charges Member Companies Member Directory - [Become a Member](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/become-a-member/) - Become a Member Join the NGFA NGFA is a trade association made up of member companies throughout the grain and feed supply chain. Each company pays annual dues to the NGFA, which extends the benefits and services of the association to every employee of each member company. Is your company already part of the NGFA? - [Privacy Policy](https://www.ngfa.org/privacy-policy/) - Privacy Policy National Grain and Feed Association is committed to protecting your privacy. 1400 Crystal Drive, Suite 260, Arlington, VA 22202 202-280-0873 ngfa@ngfa.org - [Search Arbitrations](https://www.ngfa.org/search-arbitrations/) - ARBITRATION DECISIONS Arbitration Decisions Directory ARBITRATION DECISIONS - [Training](https://www.ngfa.org/resources/training/) - TRAINING Comprehensive Training Resources to Support You NGFA provides comprehensive training resources to support the grain, feed, and processing industry's commitment to safety, compliance, and operational excellence. Our programs are designed for professionals at all levels, offering both online and in-person learning opportunities. Feed Safety Courses Medicated Feed Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) FSMA-related Animal - [Get Involved](https://www.ngfa.org/get-involved/) - Get Involved NGFA is a Trade Association NGFA is a trade association made up of member companies throughout the grain and feed supply chain. Each company pays annual dues to the NGFA, which extends the benefits and services of the association to every employee of each member company. Is your company already part of the - [Foundation](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/foundation/) - Foundation National Grain and Feed Foundation (NGFF) For nearly six decades the National Grain and Feed Foundation (NGFF) has been a champion for the nation’s grain, feed, and processing industry. NGFF at a Glance With your generous and continued financial support, the Foundation is: Empowering the next generation For three years, NGFF has offered scholarships - [Foundation Supporters](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/foundation/foundation-supporters/) - Foundation Supporters The National Grain and Feed Foundation thanks its generous supporters. 100 percent of corporate and individual contributions are directed to research and education. View Foundation AgMotion Inc. Agri-Fine Corporation Almira Farmers Warehouse Co. Ltd. APEX Arizona Grain Inc. Bayou Grain & Chemical Corp. Beachner Grain Inc Berthold Farmers Elevator LLC Big D Ranch - [Order Rules Booklet](https://www.ngfa.org/trade-rules/order-rules-booklet/) - ABOUT NGFA Trade Rules and Arbitration Rules Booklet Free copies of the Trade Rules can be downloaded on the Trade Rules page. Explore Trades Rule Non-members: $55 each Order Now 6+ Copies Members: $8 each Non-members: $55 each Order Now - [Thank you!](https://www.ngfa.org/thank-you/) - CONTACT US Thank you! Thank you for contacting us! We will be in touch with you shortly. Visit Homepage - [Contact Us](https://www.ngfa.org/contact/) - Contact Us Get in Touch. Our mission: promote an open market and efficiently provide a safe, abundant, affordable, sustainable, and wholesome supply of grain, oilseeds, feed, and related products. Arlington, VA 22202 202.289.0873 Send us a message EmailThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Enter Email Confirm Email - [Advocacy](https://www.ngfa.org/advocacy/) - Advocacy Advocating for a Competitive U.S. Grain and Feed Industry NGFA is the voice of America's grain, feed, and processing industry on Capitol Hill and in federal agencies. We champion policies that support a safe, sustainable, and competitive agricultural economy – backed by facts, driven by members, and grounded in results. From trade and transportation - [Press Releases](https://www.ngfa.org/press-releases/) - PRESS RELEASES Transforming America's Harvest NGFA in the News Ag Policy NGFA applauds Senate confirmation of Hedlund to second STB term August 7, 2026 Ag Policy NGFA applauds advancement of Keith Sonderling nomination July 30, 2026 For more information or assistance, please contact us. Name(Required) First Last Department(Required)Please choose which department you'd like to contact: - [Committee Structure](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/committee-structure/) - Committee Structure Role/Power and Responsibilities, Committee Composition, Meetings, Staff Liaison and Legal Protection Those serving on NGFA committees also benefit from their involvement. They are on the cutting edge of learning about government policies – usually at the developmental stage – as well as the intricacies of important industry issues and trends. Explore Committees Power - [Benefits & Services](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/become-a-member/benefits-services/) - NGFA Benefits for Every Employee Member Benefits & Services NGFA is a trade association made up of member companies throughout the grain and feed supply chain. Each company pays annual dues to the NGFA, which extends the benefits and services of the association to every employee of each member company. Is your company already part - [Foundation Trustees](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/foundation-trustees/) - Foundation Trustees Committee Members Mission: Support a vibrant, innovative, and prosperous grain, oilseeds, and feed industry through research, safety, and education initiatives. Provide effective stewardship of financial resources for the National Grain and Feed Foundation. Foundation Trustees Committee Chairperson: Jason Klootwyk, Agtegra Cooperative Staff Liaison: Rebecca Grubbs, Vice President, Marketing and Member Services Name Title - [Communications, Marketing and Membership Committee](https://www.ngfa.org/about-us/committees/communications-marketing-and-membership-committee/) - Communications, Marketing and Membership Committee Committee Members Mission: Serve as a voice for members and support ongoing, high-quality marketing of the NGFA to members and other stakeholders. Provide input on strategies to effectively refine the NGFA brand and promote member benefits, programs, and services using diverse communications channels. Support a growing membership base by identifying - [Events & News](https://www.ngfa.org/events-news/) - News Bringing together professionals from the grain, feed, and agribusiness sectors. Ag Policy NGFA statement on Senate continuing resolution August 8, 2026 Ag Policy NGFA applauds Senate confirmation of Hedlund to second STB term August 7, 2026 Ag Policy NGFA applauds advancement of Keith Sonderling nomination July 30, 2026 Ag Policy NGFA welcomes Senate committee - [Action Center](https://www.ngfa.org/advocacy/action-center/) - Action Center The Voice of America’s Grain & Feed Industry Last Department(Required)Please choose which department you'd like to contact: Select DepartmentMembershipCommitteesAdvocacyEvents & NewsGeneralOrganizationEmail(Required) Enter Email Confirm Email Comments(Required)How can we help you? Submit - [Resources](https://www.ngfa.org/resources/) - Resources Tools that Power the Grain and Feed Supply Chain NGFA members rely on more than just advocacy – they depend on trusted tools that help them conduct business with clarity, confidence, and consistency. These member-driven resources are central to NGFA’s role in promoting a competitive and transparent marketplace. Ag Policy NGFA statement on Senate - [Arbitration](https://www.ngfa.org/arbitration-trade-rules/arbitration/) - Arbitration NGFA Arbitration Formally established in 1901, the NGFA’s Arbitration System has operated in some form since the formation of the Association on November 9, 1896. Explore Trade Rules Grain Trade Rules Course: This course is intended to familiarize individuals with the Grain Trade Rules and provide practical guidance in understanding the rules. It consists - [Terms of Use](https://www.ngfa.org/terms-of-use/) - Terms of Use Terms of Use lorem ipsum - [Sitemap](https://www.ngfa.org/sitemap/) - [Decisions](https://www.ngfa.org/arbitration-trade-rules/decisions/) - [Policy Priorities](https://www.ngfa.org/advocacy/policy-priorities/) ## Teams - [Max Fisher](https://www.ngfa.org/team/max-fisher/) - Chief Economist and Treasurer Focus Areas: Transportation, Risk Management - [Jess McCluer](https://www.ngfa.org/team/jess-mccluer/) - Senior Vice President, Safety and Regulatory Focus Areas: Environment, Grain Inspection and Grain Quality, Safety, Regulatory Policy, Trade - [Berit Foss, Ph. D.](https://www.ngfa.org/team/berit-foss-ph-d/) - Vice President, Feed and Sustainability Focus Areas: Animal Feed Policy, Feed Innovation, Sustainability, Biofuels - [Brian Schouvieller](https://www.ngfa.org/team/brian-schouvieller/) - First Vice Chairman Senior Vice President CHS Inc. St. Paul, Minn. Brian Schouvieller is a senior vice president for CHS Global Grain Marketing, a position he has held since April 2018. He is responsible for CHS global commodity trading, supply chain management, and risk management, including freight, currency, execution and trade finance. Mr. Schouvieller has - [Chris Boerm](https://www.ngfa.org/team/chris-boerm/) - Chairman President, Global Transportation Archer Daniels Midland Company Decatur, Ill. Boerm joined ADM in 1991 and has served in a variety of merchandising and management positions since that time. He most recently served as president, Grain, and before that, as advisor, Office of the Chairman. He also served as the vice president and general manager - [Lauren Thrall](https://www.ngfa.org/team/lauren-thrall/) - Title Title Company Location Bio - [Greg Beck](https://www.ngfa.org/team/greg-beck/) - Chairman Senior Vice President, Grain Division CGB Enterprises Covington, La. After graduating from Purdue, Greg’s career began as a barge fleet dispatcher in Cincinnati. From his beginning in marine transportation, new duties were learned in truck dispatch and bulk terminal operations. After that initial experience in logistics and transportation he began to originate grain from ## Events - [Copy of 132nd Annual Convention](https://www.ngfa.org/events/132nd-annual-convention-611/) - [NGFA Board of Directors (closed meeting)](https://www.ngfa.org/events/ngfa-board-of-directors-closed-meeting-380/) - [CONVEY'27](https://www.ngfa.org/events/convey26-384/) - [Member Webinar: New Member Orientation](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-orientation/) - Join the NGFA membership team to learn how to maximize your membership. All members welcome. Registration opens soon. - [CEC 2026](https://www.ngfa.org/events/cec-2026/) - [Harvest Safety Week 2026](https://www.ngfa.org/events/hsw-2026/) - During Harvest Safety Week you’ll receive daily emails with resources to help your team stay safe and ready during the 2026 fall harvest. Make a plan to participate! Choose how your organization will participate in Harvest Safety Week and make sure everyone on your team is signed up to receive Harvest Safety Week emails. - [Member Webinar: Meet with Mike](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-meet-with-mike-233-408/) - Register Now - [AI in Ag Member Webinar Series: From Strategy to Action, hosted by People Spark](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-ai-cant-do-your-performance-reviews-hosted-by-people-spark-544-130-657/) - Registration Now Open - [Members-only webinar: New World Screwworm and animal food regulatory considerations with FDA’s CVM](https://www.ngfa.org/events/members-only-webinar-new-world-screwworm-and-animal-food-regulatory-considerations-with-fdas-cvm/) - [Member Webinar: Sustainability Chain of Custody Systems, An Auditor Perspective](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-sustainability-chain-of-custody-systems/) - Register Now - [AI in Ag Member Webinar Series: Leading Your People Through the Shift, hosted by People Spark](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-ai-cant-do-your-performance-reviews-hosted-by-people-spark-544-130/) - Registration Now Open - [NGFA–KSU Food Safety Modernization Act Feed Industry Training](https://www.ngfa.org/events/ngfa-ksu-food-safety-modernization-act-feed-industry-training-2/) - Registration HERE. - [Member Safety Webinar: Grain Storage Structure and Confined Space Entry](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-safety-webinar-emergency-action-planning-434/) - Registration will open soon. - [Member Safety Webinar: Electrical Safety and Combustible Dust](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-safety-webinar-electrical-safety-combustible-dust/) - Registration will open soon. - [Member Webinar: Meet with Mike](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-meet-with-mike-233-467/) - Register Now - [Member Webinar: Meet with Mike](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-meet-with-mike-233/) - Register Now - [2026 Summer Legislative Fly-In (closed meeting)](https://www.ngfa.org/events/2026-fly-in/) - [AI in Ag Member Webinar Series: Strategy First — AI Is a Tool, Not the Destination , hosted by People Spark](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-ai-cant-do-your-performance-reviews-hosted-by-people-spark-544/) - Registration Now Open - [NGFA–KSU Food Safety Modernization Act Feed Industry Training](https://www.ngfa.org/events/ngfa-ksu-food-safety-modernization-act-feed-industry-training/) - Registration now open. - [Member Webinar: Meet with Mike](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-meet-with-mike/) - Register Now - [Member Webinar Series: The History and Future of GRAS in the U.S. – Changes are Coming](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-closing-gras-loophole/) - Registration to Open Jan. 16 - [Member Webinar: Meet with ... the Policy Team](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-meet-with-the-policy-team/) - Register Now - [2026 Trading, Trade Rules, and Arbitration Seminar](https://www.ngfa.org/events/2026-trade-rules-arbitration-seminar/) - [CONVEY'26](https://www.ngfa.org/events/convey26/) - [Member Webinar Series: Hedging Grain Volume Risk: The Emerging Market for Crop-Yield & Crop-Production Derivatives, presented by Munich Re Trading LLC](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-safety-webinar-railcar-fall-protection-copy/) - Registration to Open Dec. 16 - [NGFA Board of Directors (closed meeting)](https://www.ngfa.org/events/ngfa-board-of-directors-closed-meeting/) - [NGFA Board of Directors Meeting (closed meeting)](https://www.ngfa.org/events/ngfa-board-of-directors-meeting-closed-meeting-887/) - [Member Webinar: Getting AI Right: How Ag Leaders Can Use Technology to Give Better Feedback, hosted by People Spark](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-ai-cant-do-your-performance-reviews-hosted-by-people-spark/) - Registration Now - [130th Annual Convention](https://www.ngfa.org/events/130th-annual-convention/) - Registration to open November 19, 2025 - [Member Safety Webinar Series: Navigating OSHA Railcar Rules & Railcar Fall Protection Solutions](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-safety-webinar-railcar-fall-protection/) - Navigating OSHA Railcar Rules Tuesday Nov. 18 with Conn Macial Carey LLP’s OSHA Practice Group Railcar Fall Protection Solutions Wednesday Nov. 19 with Joe Mlyek, CSP, OHST, Progressive Saety - [NGFA–KSU Food Safety Modernization Act Feed Industry Training](https://www.ngfa.org/events/ngfa-ksu-food-safety-modernization-act-feed-industry-training-copy/) - Registration Opens in 2026 - [CEC 2025](https://www.ngfa.org/events/cec-2025/) - NGFA's Flagship Meeting for Grain Industry Professionals Join NGFA in Indianapolis Attendee Registration opens August 13, 2025 At CEC 2025 you can expect: Informative presentations; a supplier tradeshow where you can discover industry partners and products; and valuable industry networking opportunities with your peers to help you develop and maintain critical industry contacts. At CEC, - [Member Webinar: Meet with Mike](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-ai-cant-do-your-performance-reviews-hosted-by-people-spark-copy-copy/) - Register Now - [Member Webinar: Fall Harvest Update, hosted by CoBank](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-fall-harvest-update-hosted-by-cobank/) - Register Now. - [Member Safety Webinar: Emergency Action Planning](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-safety-webinar-emergency-action-planning/) - [Member Webinar: Meet with Mike](https://www.ngfa.org/events/member-webinar-ai-cant-do-your-performance-reviews-hosted-by-people-spark-copy/) - Register Now - [CEC 2027](https://www.ngfa.org/events/cec-2027/) - [CEC 2028](https://www.ngfa.org/events/cec-2028/) - [2027 NGFA Board of Directors (closed meeting)](https://www.ngfa.org/events/2027-ngfa-board-of-directors/) - [131st Annual Convention](https://www.ngfa.org/events/131st-annual-convention/) - [NGFA Board of Directors Meeting (closed meeting)](https://www.ngfa.org/events/ngfa-board-of-directors-meeting-closed-meeting/) - [132nd Annual Convention](https://www.ngfa.org/events/132nd-annual-convention/) - [129th Annual Convention](https://www.ngfa.org/events/129th-annual-convention/) ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.ngfa.org/category/uncategorized/) - [Ag Policy](https://www.ngfa.org/category/ag-policy/) - [Blog](https://www.ngfa.org/category/blog/) - [Business, Merchandising, Operations](https://www.ngfa.org/category/business-merchandising-operations/) - [Transportation and Logistics](https://www.ngfa.org/category/transportation-and-logistics/) - [Feed and Food Safety](https://www.ngfa.org/category/feed-and-food-safety/) - [Safety and Health](https://www.ngfa.org/category/safety-and-health/) - [Sustainability](https://www.ngfa.org/category/sustainability/) - [Events](https://www.ngfa.org/category/events/) - [Cybersecurity](https://www.ngfa.org/category/cybersecurity/) - [Risk Management](https://www.ngfa.org/category/risk-management/) - [Member Programs](https://www.ngfa.org/category/member-programs/) - [Trade and Crop Technology](https://www.ngfa.org/category/trade-and-crop-technology/) - [Press Releases](https://www.ngfa.org/category/press-release/) - Contact: Sarah Gonzalez, Director of Communications and Digital Media, 202-888-1090 ## Tags - [AAFCO](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/aafco/) - [agriculture](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/agriculture/) - [feed](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/feed/) - [feed ingredients](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/feed-ingredients/) - [grain](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/grain/) - [grain and feed](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/grain-and-feed/) - [Cybersecurity](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/cybersecurity/) - [transportation](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/transportation/) - [waterborne commerce](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/waterborne-commerce/) - [waterways](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/waterways/) - [rail](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/rail/) - [safety](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/safety/) - [Sustainability](https://www.ngfa.org/tag/sustainability/) ## Team Categories - [Policy](https://www.ngfa.org/team-categories/policy/) ## Categories - [CEC](https://www.ngfa.org/mec-category/cec-event/) - [Webinar](https://www.ngfa.org/mec-category/webinar/) - [Board of Directors](https://www.ngfa.org/mec-category/board-of-directors/) - [Annual Convention](https://www.ngfa.org/mec-category/annual-convention/) - [Seminar](https://www.ngfa.org/mec-category/seminar/) - [CONVEY](https://www.ngfa.org/mec-category/convey/) - [Training](https://www.ngfa.org/mec-category/training/) - [Fly-In](https://www.ngfa.org/mec-category/fly-in/)