Policy & Politics

Endangered Species Act Reform (national policy)

Published May. 15, 2013

The enforcement for laws regarding the Endangered Species Act has evolved drastically, as activists have resorted to the courts to drive policy decisions. A recent settlement with the US Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) brings hundreds of changes on species listings. More lawsuits means less resources.

Federal Animal Care Standards for Egg Laying Hens

Published Jun. 14, 2012

Federal legislation has been introduced for an agreement between the Humane Society of the U.S. and the United Egg Producers dealing with cage size and other animal care standards for our nation’s 280 million egg-laying hens.

Futures Market (national policy)

Published May. 30, 2012

From their inception in the mid-19th century, futures markets have functioned as an important tool for agricultural producers to transfer their price risk to other investors.

Port Infrastructure (national policy)

Published May. 30, 2012

The Mississippi River is used to transport agricultural goods from across the country. There is a problem with silt/soil removal along the Mississippi River, causing barges and carriers to load their cargo in increasingly shallow waters.

Pre-harvest Food Safety (national policy)

Published May. 30, 2012

Pre-harvest food safety has become a topic of increasing focus, particularly in the beef industry. USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced that their next step in reducing E. coli is through pre-harvest intervention, and they have repeatedly re-stated their intentions.