Washington | Reuters –– The U.S. and China have agreed to take action by mid-July to increase access for U.S. financial firms and expand trade in beef and chicken among other steps as part of Washington’s drive to cut its trade deficit with Beijing. The deals are the first results of 100 days of trade […] Read more
U.S., China agree to first trade steps under 100-day plan
U.S. senators urge probe of report that oil companies blocked ethanol
Washington | Reuters — Two U.S. farm-state senators on Wednesday urged federal regulators to investigate allegations raised by a biofuel trade group that the oil industry uses “strong-arm tactics” to prevent widespread use of higher blends of ethanol in gasoline. A report from the Renewable Fuels Association this week said major oil companies have discouraged […] Read more
U.S. Democrats optimistic EPA to reverse course on biofuel cuts
Washington | Reuters — U.S. senators backing the federal biofuel mandate said Wednesday they believe the Obama administration will likely raise proposed targets for 2014 biofuel use when it issues its final rule next month, after protests from renewable fuel producers that planned cuts would devastate the industry. Representing states with strong agricultural interests, the […] Read more
U.S. EPA expects to reduce biofuels volumes for 2014
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Tuesday maintained its overall target for biofuel use in 2013, but said it would use its authority to lower the volume goal for 2014 from the current requirement. The decision to adjust biofuel targets for 2014 should offer relief to refiners squeezed by rising prices for renewable fuel credits, […] Read more
Congress eyes change to U.S. biofuels mandate
Change may be looming for the U.S. biofuel mandate as a powerful Congressional panel sets its sights on the program and pressure mounts for the Obama administration to relieve fuel market problems created by rising renewable fuel targets. Requiring increasing amounts of biofuels to be blended into the nation’s gasoline and diesel supplies, the renewable […] Read more
U.S. winter likely to continue hot weather trend
After a hot spring and a scorching summer, this winter is likely to continue a U.S. warming trend that could make 2012 the hottest year since modern record-keeping began, U.S. weather experts said Oct. 18. Drought that ravaged much of the United States this year may spread in the coming months, said Mike Halpert at […] Read more
Cyber-Savvy Farmer
