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Government Shutdown Continues
The federal government remains shut down after Congress failed to pass a temporary funding proposal, with the clean Continuing Resolution having failed thirteen times. About half of USDA employees, roughly 42,000 staff, remain furloughed, meaning many key services for farmers, including loan processing, disaster assistance, and conservation program support, may be delayed or unavailable until the government reopens. Only essential personnel are reporting to work, and FSA offices are expected to maintain a minimum of two staff members per office to assist with critical tasks.
The shutdown has immediate impacts on federal programs. SNAP benefits will not be paid starting November 1, while WIC has been temporarily funded through Section 32 payments redirected from tariff revenue, providing only short-term support. The standoff continues to stem from broader disagreements in Congress over health care funding and budget priorities, and with gridlock persisting, the shutdown's duration remains uncertain. Farmers and rural communities are encouraged to stay in contact with their local offices for updates on service availability and assistance.
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Julie Callahan Senate Confirmation Hearing
Julie Callahan’s confirmation hearing for Chief Agricultural Negotiator took place before the Senate Finance Committee on October 29, 2025. She emphasized her commitment to supporting U.S. farmers and ranchers through fair and reciprocal trade, highlighting challenges such as high input costs, complex international agreements, and unfair trading practices. Senators asked about key issues including China’s non-tariff barriers, beef and dairy exports, USMCA review, specialty crops, and tariffs on agricultural inputs. Callahan affirmed she would work closely with the committee and stakeholders to negotiate agreements that protect U.S. agriculture and expand export opportunities.
The full hearing can be watched here:
http://bit.ly/4hy5n5P
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Ag Group Letter Supporting Economic Assistance
On October 6, 214 state and national agricultural organizations, including the U.S. Canola Association sent a letter to President Trump reiterating the potential need for economic assistance for growers while the Administration secures new trade agreements and continues to champion domestic market expansion.
Read the letter: https://bit.ly/47yCyBN
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USMCA Sign-on Letter
The U.S. Canola Association joined other agricultural organizations in signing a letter led by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) supporting a full 16-year renewal of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The letter outlined how USMCA has supported trade integration and economic growth among the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It emphasized the benefits of the agreement’s provisions, including science-based regulations, zero-tariff trade, and strengthened cooperation across the three countries. The signers urged maintaining the agreement as written to preserve trade certainty, protect U.S. agricultural exports, and support the
continued success of farmers, ranchers and
agribusinesses.
Read the letter: https://bit.ly/47k84oo
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U.S. Fertilizer Imports Shift Amid Tariff Changes
Recent analysis from North Dakota State University shows that U.S. fertilizer imports are being reshaped by the tariffs imposed this year, leading buyers to shift toward lower-tariff sources. Potash and nitrogen imports from countries targeted by the April 10% baseline tariff have dropped significantly, while imports from countries not affected by the duties, such as Russia, have risen. These shifts are creating higher costs for U.S. farmers, who are now paying premiums on top of already elevated global fertilizer prices. The report also notes that some U.S. farmers are adjusting their operations in response, delaying equipment purchases and reducing fertilizer application, highlighting the broader economic impact of these trade policies. Overall, while the tariffs aim to diversify supply chains, they may inadvertently increase reliance on riskier foreign sources and add financial pressures on domestic producers.
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Senate Judiciary Committee Holds Hearing on Competition in the Seed and Fertilizer Industries
On October 28, the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary held a hearing titled “Pressure Cooker: Competition Issues in the Seed and Fertilizer Industries.” Witnesses included growers such as Caleb Ragland and Noah Coppess, industry representatives Corey Rosenbusch of The Fertilizer Institute and Andrew LaVigne of the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), independent seed company owner John Latham, and Dr. Diana Moss, an economist focused on competition policy. The panel discussed high input costs, challenges in the global supply chain, and the effects of consolidation among large seed and fertilizer companies that have limited competition for farmers.
Witnesses explained that fertilizer markets are being shaped by global conditions including China restricting exports, Russia serving as a leading producer, India subsidizing fertilizer for its growers, and rising energy costs in Europe. These factors have contributed to higher prices and reduced availability for U.S. farmers. Lawmakers and witnesses agreed that greater transparency, stronger domestic supply chains, and fairer competition are essential to help stabilize costs for growers.
The full hearing can be watched here:
https://bit.ly/3Jvi6cU
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H2A Wage Rate - Update
On October 2nd, the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) issued an interim final rule (IFR) that revises the methodology for determining the hourly Adverse Effect Wage Rates (AEWRs) for H-2A workers. DOL will now use wage data reported for each U.S. state and territory by the Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. For the majority of H-2A job opportunities, the Department will use OEWS survey data to establish AEWRs applicable to five Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes combining the most common field and livestock worker occupations previously measured by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Farm Labor Survey (FLS), which covered six SOC codes. These AEWRs will be divided into two skill-based categories to account for wage differentials arising from qualifications contained in the employer's job offer. For all other occupations, the Department will use the OEWS survey to determine two skill-based AEWRs for each SOC code to reflect wage differentials. The threshold determination for assigning the SOC code(s) and applicable skill-based AEWR will be based on the duties performed for the majority of the workdays during the contract period and qualifications contained in the employer's job offer. Finally, to address differences in compensation between most U.S. workers and H-2A workers who receive employer-provided housing at no cost, the Department will implement a standard adjustment factor to the AEWR to account for this non-monetary compensation that employers will apply when compensating H-2A workers under temporary agricultural labor certifications. The DOL estimates the rule should save employers $2.46 billion annually.
The Interim Final Rule is effective October 2, 2025, and can be found here:
https://bit.ly/3LkE8zE
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Trade and Tariff Updates
The Supreme Court will hear the IEEPA case on November 5, which will determine whether the use of IEEPA tariffs was legal. If the Court strikes down the President’s authority in this matter, it is expected that the administration will implement tariffs through alternative means. The most likely option is Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, which allows a 15% tariff for up to 150 days.
This week has seen significant tariff developments. The President announced a potential 10% additional tariff on Canada related to an advertisement issue; however, no executive order or proclamation has been released yet. Thailand and Vietnam each issued statements regarding trade agreements with the U.S., and the text of agreements with Malaysia and Cambodia has been published. Announcements regarding trade developments with Japan and China are also expected this week.
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Verywell Health Highlights the Real Benefits of Seed Oils, Especially Canola
A new Verywell Health article by Amy Brownstein, MS, RDN, and medically reviewed by Allison Herries, RDN, takes a balanced look at the so-called “seed oil controversy.” The piece explains that oils like canola are rich in heart-healthy unsaturated fats that may actually help reduce inflammation, not cause it. Canola oil, in particular, stands out for its low saturated fat content and balanced omega-3 to omega-6 ratio, which support cardiovascular and metabolic health. The takeaway? Cooking with seed oils at home poses little health risk and can be part of a nutritious, balanced diet.
Read the article from Verywell Health: https://bit.ly/4npJaIJ
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Experts Push Back on Seed Oil Myths, Research Reaffirms Their Health Benefits
A recent Independent article by Jonel Aleccia challenges the growing online backlash against seed oils, including canola. Despite viral claims linking these oils to inflammation and chronic disease, nutrition scientists emphasize that decades of research show the opposite: seed oils support heart health, lower “bad” cholesterol, and are far healthier than animal fats like butter or tallow. Experts agree that the real problem lies in ultra-processed foods—not the oils themselves.
Read the article from the Independent: https://bit.ly/42Ju8pH
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Celebrity Chef's Claims on Seed Oils Miss the Mark
In a recent Fox Business segment, Chef Andrew Gruel called seed oils a “cause of inflammation in our chronic disease epidemic.” However, nutrition science tells a different story. Decades of research and leading health organizations consistently show that seed oils, like canola, are rich in heart-healthy unsaturated fats and are not linked to inflammation or poor health outcomes. While sensational headlines can stir concern, evidence-based nutrition continues to support the inclusion of seed oils as part of a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Watch the video clip from Fox Business: http://bit.ly/47pqGU1
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Dietitians Debunk Common Myths About Seed Oils
In a recent EatingWell article, registered dietitian Lisa Valente, M.S., R.D., with review by Katey Davidson, M.Sc.FN, R.D., C.P.T., addresses five common misconceptions about seed oils. Despite widespread misinformation, current research shows that oils, such as canola, are rich in unsaturated fats that support heart health and are not linked to inflammation or chronic disease. The authors emphasize that rather than eliminating seed oils, the focus should be on balanced dietary patterns that include a variety of nutrient-rich foods and healthy fats.
Read the article from EatingWell: https://bit.ly/47hJvHs
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Upcoming Industry Meetings:
PNW Canola Summit (Nutrien Ag Solutions)
November 5, 2025 | Airway Heights, Washington
Join us to discuss canola and hear from canola industry speakers - sponsored by Nutrien Ag Solutions.
Visit the event website to register:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pnw-canola-summit-tickets-1689526793119
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The Annual Canola/Wheat Outlook & International Durum Forum
November 5 - 6, 2025 | Clarion Hotel - Minot, ND
The Northern Canola Growers Association will hold its Annual Business Meeting on November 5 at 3:30 pm. There will be many educational presentations on canola, including insect control, canola diseases, rotation management, and strategies to combat kochia resistance.
Join us on November 5 and 6 at this year's Canola/Wheat Crop Outlook & International Durum Forum in Minot. This is a free forum!
For more information & to register, click here:
https://www.durumgrowers.com/crop-outlook-durum-forum
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Canola & Pulse Workshop
December 1, 2025 | Great Falls, MT
The Pacific Northwest Canola Association (PNWCA) and the Northern Pulse Growers Association will co-host the Canola & Pulse Workshop: “Rotation Matters – Growing Together” on December 1, 2025, in Great Falls, MT. This workshop will highlight the benefits of crop rotation, research updates, and practical insights for growers.
Visit the event website to learn more and register: https://www.northernpulse.com/events/
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U.S. Canola Production Reaches Record High as Biofuel Demand Grows
According to the USDA, canola production in the United States is surging, driven by strong demand from the domestic biofuel sector. For the 2024/25 season, planted area exceeded 1 million hectares for the first time, marking a 13% increase from the previous year and setting the stage for a record harvest of over 2.1 million tonnes. Growth has been strongest in North Dakota, Montana, and Washington, where planted areas hit record highs. Fueled by policies such as the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS), canola oil has become an increasingly valuable feedstock for renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, reinforcing the crop’s importance to both U.S. agriculture and clean energy.
Read the Oils & Fats International article: https://bit.ly/3Wv1eGm
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CPM|Crown Launches Alcohol-Based Extraction Technology for Oilseed Processing
CPM|Crown has introduced Monarc™ Clean Oilseed Processing, a patent-pending alcohol-based solvent extraction technology that offers a safer, more sustainable alternative to traditional hexane systems. Designed to match the economic efficiency of hexane extraction, Monarc uses renewable alcohol solvents like ethanol to deliver key advantages, including improved worker safety, reduced environmental impact and the ability to produce clean-label products that appeal to health-conscious consumers. Following years of research and development, Monarc is now being deployed at a commercial-scale facility in Europe, marking a significant step forward in the evolution of oilseed processing technology.
Read the Farm Progress article: https://bit.ly/3Jsz8Zl
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NOPA Calls for Science-Based Definition of ‘Ultra-Processed Foods’
The National Oilseed Producers Association (NOPA) has urged the FDA and USDA to ensure any definition of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is grounded in nutrition science, not just the degree of processing. In its official comments, NOPA cautioned that frameworks like NOVA can misrepresent the nutritional value of foods and mislead consumers. The association emphasized that nutrient composition —such as levels of healthy fats, sugars, and calories —should guide public health messaging, not processing methods alone. NOPA reaffirmed its support for dietary guidance that reflects scientific evidence, promotes balanced nutrition, and maintains consumer confidence in the U.S. food supply.
Read the article from American Ag Network: https://bit.ly/3L6EABL
Read NOPA's letter to the FDA and USDA: https://bit.ly/47iHhsA
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USCA works to support and advance U.S. canola production, marketing, processing, and use through government and industry relations. Since its establishment in 1989, the association has helped domestic canola acreage grow from virtually zero to about 2 million. To learn more about USCA, go to: www.UScanola.com
Want to promote your products or services to canola producers and industry members? Visit our advertising pages to find specs, deadlines and rates to advertise in the Canola Quick Bytes monthly e-newsletter.
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