The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Grain Inspection Advisory Committee’s fall meeting will be held October 29-30 in Kansas City, Missouri. The USDA Agricultural Marketing Service’s Federal Grain Inspection Service will facilitate the meeting.

In addition to general program updates, agenda topics include:

BACKGROUND

When FGIS inspection services are waived or otherwise unavailable, the current MOU agreement between FGIS and APHIS/PPQ does not allow for phytosanitary certification without a 921-2 form. In case of natural disasters or other interruption of services, there should be a procedure that provides phytosanitary issuance which is required by importing countries.

OBJECTIVES AND DISCUSSION 

Periodic Updates for FGIS Inspection Handbooks

Background

The grain inspection industry has been using the same equipment and procedures since its inception in 1976. While these methods have served the industry well over the years, it’s becoming clear that they are not keeping pace with the rapid technological advancements being made within the grain industry itself. This discrepancy is causing issues or holding entities back in terms of staffing, consistency, and accuracy of inspections.

Objectives and Discussion 

New technologies are steadily increasing our grain analysis capability.  The challenge for FGIS, and by extension, for all participants in the grain market, is to incorporate new technologies or improved operating procedures without creating discontinuities or disruptions in markets.  Analytical differences can create instant economic stress if products are revalued or misvalued among market participants.

BACKGROUND

Date: October 29-30, 2024

Location: National Grain Center, 10383 N. Ambassador Drive, Kansas City, Missouri 64153. 

• Meeting Agenda (pdf)
• Virtual Meeting Registration

Comments or Questions: Kendra.c.kline@usda.gov

Meeting Materials

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that a referendum on the Soybean Promotion and Research Order will not be conducted. The decision is a result of a soybean Request for Referendum held May 6-31, 2024, through USDA Farm Service Agency County offices.

Applications will be accepted for Seasonal Classer/HVI Operator positions beginning September 30, 2024.  To apply, go to the Lubbock Cotton Classification Complex at 120 Texas Tech Parkway, Lubbock, TX 79409.  For any questions, please contact the Lubbock Classing Office, telephone number (806) 283-9400.   Applications will be accepted on September 30th through October 2nd from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.