Category: Policy

EPA’s Final Risk Evaluation for Formaldehyde Threatens US Agriculture and Food Security

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today expressed concern following the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) completion of the final risk evaluation for formaldehyde under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), saying that while EPA made several important changes the highly criticized risk evaluation still threatens U.S. agriculture and food security due to potentially limiting the essential role formaldehyde plays in the chemistry of widely used fertilizers.

“EPA’s final TSCA risk evaluation includes several important adjustments but still highlights a continued failure to meet statutory requirements regarding scientific quality, peer review, and meaningful consideration of public and interagency input,” said TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “While TSCA requires chemical review and regulations to be based on the best available science, the EPA is finalizing this evaluation relying on a flawed assessment by the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) program that falls short of scientific integrity standards and lacks needed transparency. Rather than moving forward with questionable actions, the EPA should revisit the scientific foundation of its formaldehyde evaluation to avoid undermining the U.S. economy and food security.”

The Department of Agriculture, other government agencies, and EPA-selected peer reviewers have voiced concerns with the rushed timeline, scientific pitfalls, and harmful consequences of a substandard risk evaluation. Dismissing these concerns could lead to unnecessarily restrictive regulation of this essential chemistry, weakening the U.S. economy and increasing foreign dependence.

“A high-quality and scientifically rigorous risk evaluation is of great importance to U.S. fertilizer manufacturers and farmers,” said Rosenbusch, noting that formaldehyde chemistry is essential for the production of granulated urea, which accounts for over 25% of the nitrogen consumed domestically. “Formaldehyde chemistry is also needed to manufacture slow-release urea products that maximize nutrient use efficiency and minimize environmental losses.”

Notwithstanding minor improvements, EPA’s final risk evaluation concludes nearly all conditions of use, including fertilizer manufacturing and commercial use of fertilizer products (i.e. grower handling and application of urea), contribute to ‘unreasonable risk’ under TSCA, meaning formaldehyde production and downstream applications in fertilizer manufacturing and use could face difficult-to-meet restrictions.

“Not only is EPA’s suggested starting point for workplace limits inconsistent with the best available science, it disregards the existing measures that protect workers, such as the use of personal protection equipment. These workplace limits are significantly lower and out of line with recently updated standards from international regulators,” Rosenbusch concluded. “We will continue working to inform EPA on how formaldehyde is essential for U.S. agriculture and sharing the substantial scientific evidence supporting the safe use of formaldehyde.”

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

TFI: WRDA Reauthorization and Cost-Share Update will Spur Needed Development

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) applauds Congress for passing the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, a key piece of legislation related to our nation’s water infrastructure, and for updating the cost-share structure to bring more general revenue dollars towards inland waterway projects.

“Our nation’s transportation infrastructure is critical to agriculture and rural America’s competitive advantage in world markets, and WRDA provides vital support for that network,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “WRDA is the foundation for the modernization of our nation’s inland waterways and ports, which are an integral component of the fertilizer distribution system.”

Of particular importance, this year’s WRDA reauthorization updates the cost-share structure for inland waterway lock and dam construction projects so that 75% of funding will now come from the general fund with the remaining 25% coming from the Inland Waterways Trust Fund. The previous 65% – 35% split artificially limited the funding Congress could provide to these projects each year, and with the change an additional $1.4 billion in funding could be available over a ten-year period.

“Increasing the general fund portion of the cost-share structure will promote much needed investment for inland navigation projects, as well as provide confidence to industry that much needed maintenance and modernization of our inland waterway system will happen,” Rosenbusch explained. “On a ton-mile basis, approximately one-fourth of fertilizer moves on the inland barge system and these projects are absolutely critical to the safe and efficient distribution of fertilizers.”

Rosenbusch noted that addressing the maintenance backlog, estimated at billions of dollars, is an investment in our nation’s future, saying that well-maintained waterways enable the fertilizer industry to transport goods quickly and reliably, ensuring farmers receive supplies on time.

“Delays caused by outdated components of the system are not only disastrous for the farmers who receive much of the almost 70 million tons of fertilizer each year via our nation’s waterways, they can also raise the prices of everyday goods and food for consumers,” Rosenbusch concluded. “The fertilizer industry appreciates the bipartisan work of Congressional leaders that have made modernization of our inland waterways a priority.”

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

Agriculture Industry Leaders Urge Congress to Support Farmers in Year-End Funding Bill 

ARLINGTON, VA – Today, December 16, 2024, the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA), the Council of Producers and Distributors of Agrotechnology (CPDA), CropLife America (CLA), and The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) released the following joint statement: 

“As Congressional leaders deliberate on a year-end stopgap government funding bill, it is critical that any package includes disaster assistance and economic aid for farmers. Farmers are facing severe financial hardships, and they need robust support from this legislation to help ensure the viability of their livelihoods, our rural communities, and our food supply. We urge House and Senate leadership to reach a spending package deal that includes disaster assistance and economic aid for farmers.”  

TFI: Rollins a Strong Choice to Lead USDA

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today applauded president-elect Trump’s nomination of Brooke Rollins to serve as Secretary of Agriculture, calling her nomination a “strong choice to lead the USDA.”

“TFI and the fertilizer industry congratulate Brooke Rollins on her nomination to lead the Department of Agriculture,” said TFI president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “She has strong agricultural ties and will be a powerful voice to lead on issues critical to the agricultural industry.”

In describing Rollins as a strong choice, Rosenbusch pointed to the nominee’s professional accomplishments, including work on the WOTUS rule, improving American food security, and her support for measures that defend US agricultural trade interests.

“Nominee Rollins has shown adeptness in not just effectively navigating difficult policies, but also ensuring that those policies have positive impacts on the American people,” Rosenbusch said. “Her experience serving in various policy roles in the first Trump Administration, including director of domestic policy; leading the Texas Public Policy Foundation for 15 years; and establishing both the America First Policy Institute and America First Works, has shown that she knows how to get things done.”

In addition to her proven policy track record, nominee Rollins has the agricultural roots to hit the ground running with a firm understanding of the challenges and opportunities that currently exist in the agricultural sector.

“I’ve known Brooke for 40 years and saw firsthand her passion for agriculture through our time together in the Glen Rose, Texas chapter of FFA where she was elected First Vice President for the Texas state chapter,” Rosenbusch continued. “She then went on to receive her agricultural development degree from Texas A&M where she was also the first female student body president elected in the school’s history.

“She definitely has the ag bona fides,” Rosenbusch concluded. “And the demonstrated leadership qualities that will enable her to succeed. Brooke Rollins’ nomination is a strong choice to lead the USDA and TFI looks forward to working with her upon her confirmation.”

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

The Vital Role of WRDA: How Inland Waterways Support the Fertilizer Industry and Your Dinner Table

We’re diving into a topic that might not always grab the headlines but is crucial for a steady food supply: the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). This legislation, along with our inland waterways, plays a key role in supporting the fertilizer industry and agriculture.

What is WRDA?

The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) is pivotal U.S. legislation that authorizes and prioritizes water resource projects, including dams, levees, ports, and inland waterways. WRDA ensures that the US Army Corps of Engineers has the appropriate direction for maintaining and improving our waterway infrastructure, preventing disruptions, and supporting the agricultural industry by facilitating efficient transportation of goods like fertilizers.

Why Inland Waterways Matter

Inland waterways are the hidden highways of our transportation network, essential for moving goods smoothly across the country. For the fertilizer industry, these waterways are vital. Fertilizers are bulky and heavy, making water transport efficient and cost-effective. Regular Congressional action on WRDA bills keeps this infrastructure in top shape, ensuring fertilizers and other essentials reach farmers efficiently.

Investing in water infrastructure through WRDA isn’t just about maintaining old systems—it’s about making them more efficient and reliable. This often includes the construction of whole new lock facilities to meet modern requirements. This means smoother transport, lower costs for producers and consumers, and a stronger, more resilient economy.

The Case for Investing in Waterway Infrastructure

Many locks and dams in the U.S. are over 90 years old, some dating back to the 1930s. This aging infrastructure urgently needs maintenance and upgrades to prevent significant delays and disruptions. Portions of the inland waterway network in poor condition act as bottlenecks due to the need for unscheduled maintenance, with each day of delay depriving crops of essential nutrients, resulting in lower yields and higher costs, which can lead to higher prices for consumers. Many of our oldest locks are only half the size needed for modern tug and barge traffic.

Investing in waterway infrastructure is crucial for efficiency, safety, and economic stability. Upgrading our lock and dam systems ensures smoother, more reliable transportation, reduces costs, and enhances economic stability. WRDA plays a critical role by prioritizing essential maintenance and upgrades, transforming old systems into efficient networks.

Key WRDA Legislative Support and Benefits

TFI supports the enactment of a final WRDA bill before the end of 2024. Thankfully, both the Senate and House have passed their versions of the legislation. TFI is especially supportive of a provision advanced by the Senate which would propose changing the cost-share for waterway projects from the current 65% general revenues/35% Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) split to 75% general revenues/25% IWTF. Bringing more general revenue dollars towards inland waterway projects accelerates funding for critical construction and rehab projects, saving taxpayers money and speeding up project completion.

Addressing the maintenance backlog, estimated at billions of dollars, is an investment in our future. Well-maintained waterways enable the fertilizer industry to transport goods quickly and reliably, ensuring farmers receive supplies on time. This leads to better crop yields and stable food prices.

Positive Consequences of WRDA Reauthorization

Recent progress in advancing the WRDA bills has been remarkable, with strong bipartisan support in both the Senate and the House. The Senate’s bill even received unanimous approval, showcasing a unified commitment to enhancing our water infrastructure. This legislative progress promises a brighter future for our waterways and the agricultural sector.

With the right policies in place, WRDA reauthorization ensures:

  1. Efficient Transport: Fertilizer moves smoothly along well-maintained waterways.
  2. Timely Delivery: Farmers receive the fertilizer they need without costly delays.
  3. Healthy Crops: Proper nutrients from fertilizer promote healthy crop growth and high yields.
  4. Stable Prices: Higher yields mean more supply, helping to stabilize food prices.
  5. Happy Consumers: Enjoy your favorite foods without breaking the bank.

Let’s Wrap It Up

WRDA and our inland waterways are critical components of the fertilizer industry’s supply chain. Investing in this infrastructure ensures that farmers get the supplies they need, crops grow efficiently, and food prices remain stable. So, next time you enjoy a fresh salad or a hearty bowl of pasta, take a moment to appreciate the complex system that helps get that food from the farm to your table. It’s all connected, and it all starts with smart investments in our waterway infrastructure. By supporting these efforts, we can keep our food system strong, our economy stable, and our communities thriving.

Balancing Act: The Essential Role of Formaldehyde in Agriculture and the Potential Impact of Proposed New EPA Regulations

Formaldehyde may not immediately spring to mind when considering agriculture, yet it plays a critical role, particularly in the production of fertilizers. Often linked with the preservation of biological specimens, formaldehyde’s agricultural importance cannot be overstated. As a naturally occurring organic compound, formaldehyde is vital for producing granular urea and slow-release urea fertilizers. However, the EPA’s newly proposed, overly conservative risk determinations on formaldehyde could drastically alter its use in agriculture, potentially leading to higher food costs and impacting crop yields.

Understanding Formaldehyde’s Agricultural Impact

Formaldehyde is crucial in producing urea and slow-release urea fertilizers. Nearly 25% of all nitrogen consumed domestically is urea. Slow-release urea fertilizers come in both solid and liquid forms and are designed to release nutrients slowly. This slow-release process reduces nitrogen runoff—limiting environmental impacts—and ensures that crops receive a steady supply of nutrients. As a result, plants are healthier and have higher yields. This method makes formaldehyde indispensable in modern agriculture, as it enhances the efficiency of plants using nitrogen and supports sustainable farming efforts.

Why Farmers Rely on Urea-Formaldehyde

  • Efficiency: This type of fertilizer releases nitrogen gradually, decreasing the need for frequent reapplication, thus reducing labor and ensuring consistent plant growth.
  • Environmental Impact: It minimizes nutrient runoff, protecting water sources and ecosystems
  • Versatility: Urea-formaldehyde fertilizers are versatile and can be tailored for use with a variety of crops, enhancing their applicability across different agricultural practices.

The Challenge of New EPA Formaldehyde Regulations

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released its draft risk determinations for formaldehyde and a draft occupational exposure value. Industry experts have criticized these proposed limits, arguing that the restrictions are too severe, don’t align with global standards, and are not justified by the best available science. In fact, the EPA’s proposed limits are even lower than the levels of formaldehyde found in half of homes in the US. Finalization of unobtainable exposure values could disrupt the production of essential agricultural products without improving safety. This situation highlights the need for realistic regulations that balance wellness with the practical needs of agriculture.

If finalized as proposed, the EPA’s unreasonable risk determination of formaldehyde use will create a tricky situation. The subsequent risk management rule will aim to eliminate unreasonable risks by imposing unachievable workplace protections or prohibited uses that completely bring challenges for agriculture, farmers, and consumers.

Challenges from stricter regulations could impact the lives of all Americans. Potential issues include:

  • Impact on Crop Yields: If farmers are unable to use urea-formaldehyde fertilizers, we could see an impact on some crop yields, which could affect food availability and prices.
  • Higher Food Prices: Increased costs in fertilizer production could lead to higher grocery prices for all Americans.

Formaldehyde may not be a familiar substance outside scientific and agricultural circles, but it’s essential for producing fertilizers that sustain our food supply. Although the industry is committed to working with agencies to promote the safety of the agriculture value chain, EPA’s proposed exposure limit is excessively strict and not based on the best available science. The challenge lies in balancing public health concerns with agricultural production needs. A more balanced approach to regulation would safeguard public health without disrupting the economic stability of farmers or impacting crop yields and food prices. By aligning these new regulations with practical agricultural practices and international standards, we can protect public health and support the foundation of America’s food system.

TFI’s Rosenbusch Testifies to Congress on Critical Nature of Phosphate, Potash

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) president and CEO Corey Rosenbusch today provided testimony in support of phosphate and potash, two of the three macronutrients essential to agricultural productivity, to the House Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources. The hearing focused on several bills related to critical minerals including the bipartisan H.R. 8450, the Phosphate and Potash Protection Act of 2024, introduced by Representatives Cammack and Slotkin. If enacted, the legislation would direct the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to conduct an immediate review to determine the need for adding phosphate and potash to the Critical Minerals list.  

“Half of all global crop yields can be attributed to fertilizer, but as the world population continues to grow it is imperative that the sustainable production and use of fertilizers continues to provide the ability of growing more food without needing more land on which to grow it,” Rosenbusch testified. “But the majority of phosphate and potash resources are concentrated in only a few countries, leaving them vulnerable to supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical instability. The events of the past few years have shown us that food security is national security and now is the time to protect our nation by including phosphate and potash on the USGS Critical Minerals list.”

Only 14 countries in the world produce potash, with Belarus and Russia comprising nearly 40% of global production. While the U.S. produces potash domestically, it imports roughly 95% of its needs. Regarding phosphate, 11 countries produce significant amounts with China accounting for over 40% of global production.

“Without these two minerals, modern agricultural systems would crumble and the ability to feed our growing population would be nearly impossible,” continued Rosenbusch. “It is vital that we take proactive steps to secure our own agricultural future by recognizing the role these minerals play in putting food on our tables.”

The USGS defines a critical mineral as essential to the economic or national security of the United States, susceptible to supply chain disruptions, and having significant consequences for the economy or national security if absent. “We are here today to ensure this committee understands that phosphate and potash meet all three of those criteria and should, without a doubt, be included on the USGS list of critical minerals,” Rosenbusch concluded.

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

TFI Statement on Bipartisan House Farm Bill Release

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch today released the below statement in response to the release of 2024 Farm Bill text from House Committee on Agriculture Chairmen Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA-15).

“TFI applauds the progress being made to introduce and pass a Farm Bill in 2024. The text released today by Ag Chairman GT Thompson contains key priorities for the industry that support efforts to encourage greater adoption of nutrient stewardship and conservation practices by growers across the country. These practices ensure our dinner tables remain full while minimizing impacts to our shared environment.

“At a time when true bipartisanship is increasingly rare, we thank both Chairman GT Thompson, Ranking Member David Scott, and their staffs for working together on the draft Farm Bill. We look forward to working with Congress to see a Farm Bill that addresses current challenges with updated solutions pass through both chambers on its way to President Biden’s desk for signature.”

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The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) is the leading voice of the nation’s fertilizer industry. Tracing its roots back to 1883, TFI’s membership includes fertilizer producers, wholesalers, retailers and trading firms. TFI’s full-time staff, based in Washington, D.C., serves its members through legislative, educational, technical, economic information and public communication programs. Find more information about TFI online at TFI.org and follow us on Twitter at @Fertilizer_Inst. Learn more about TFI’s nutrient stewardship initiatives at nutrientstewardship.org and on Twitter at @4rnutrients.

TFI Priorities Included in Farm Bill Framework, Praises Progress

Arlington, VA – The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) today praised Farm Bill frameworks released by House Committee on Agriculture Chairman Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA-15) and Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).

“TFI is pleased to see so many of the industry’s priorities around conservation and nutrient stewardship included in the framework shared by Chairwoman Stabenow and Chairman Thompson,” said TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch. “Nutrient stewardship is a cornerstone of the industry and we spend significant time encouraging grower adoption of these practices. The framework laid out yesterday will help that a great deal.”

Two specific priorities mentioned by Rosenbusch include recognizing Certified Crop Advisors (CCAs) as Technical Service Providers (TSPs) permitted to write and approve nutrient stewardship plans, and a pathway for enhanced efficiency fertilizers to be eligible for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

“We know we still have a long way to go until we have a passed Farm Bill, but this framework is a big step forward,” Rosenbusch concluded. “We look forward to working with Congress on ensuring programs that help increase grower adoption of practices that keep fertilizer on fields and food on our tables remain included in the Farm Bill, as well as further initiatives aimed at strengthening the domestic fertilizer supply to safeguard our nation’s food security.”

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