Mobile Courant

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville, along with U.S. Senator Jerry Moran and a bipartisan group of congressional colleagues, has called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to reverse a recent decision to discontinue the publication of certain livestock and crop reports. The discontinued reports include the July Cattle Report, Cotton Objective Yield Survey, and County Estimates for Crops and Livestock, which are essential for livestock and cotton producers in making critical management and financial decisions.

In a letter to USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack, the senators emphasized the importance of these reports, stating, "The reports slated for discontinuation are highly valuable to the entire U.S. agricultural sector, and particularly producers of cattle and cotton." They highlighted how these reports provide crucial insights into herd size, calf crop, and market anticipation, which are vital for producers in making informed business decisions.

The decision to discontinue these reports was driven by budgetary constraints, according to the Agricultural Statistics Board. However, the senators argue that the opportunity cost of discontinuing these reports far outweighs any financial considerations and could have significant repercussions for cotton and beef producers.

The letter urging the USDA to reverse this decision has garnered support from various organizations, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Cotton Council, and Alabama-based agricultural associations like the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association and Alabama Farmers Federation.

Erin Beasley, Executive Vice President for the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, expressed appreciation for Senator Tuberville's efforts, stating, "It’s unfortunate that the USDA has discontinued these timely reports that assist cattlemen in marketing decisions. We appreciate Coach and other colleagues for their call to reverse this decision as they recognize the importance of timely and transparent data for producers."

Senator Tuberville, who serves on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, has been actively advocating for the interests of Alabama's farmers and producers. He has been instrumental in crafting priorities for the upcoming Farm Bill, focusing on initiatives to support agricultural communities and enhance competitiveness in U.S. agricultural exports.

Recently, Senator Tuberville voted in favor of blocking beef imports from Paraguay, a move that aimed to protect Alabama's cattle industry from potential economic harm. His dedication to supporting the agricultural sector and ensuring transparency and data accessibility for producers remains a key focus of his legislative efforts.