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.

The Menominee Nation will coordinate the procurement of indigenous foods on behalf of the Oneida Nation, Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians, Ho-Chunk Nation, Forest County Potawatomi, Sokaogon Chippewa Community, Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, and the Gerald L. Ignace Indian Health Center for the Tribal Elder Food Box Program (TEFBP).

Join us for the virtual International Commodity Procurement Division 2024 Industry Meeting Oct. 31, from noon to 3:30 p.m. ET.

The Agricultural Marketing Service's Commodity Procurement Program, International Commodity Procurement Division, will hold a Virtual 2024 Industry Meeting to discuss commodity purchase programs.