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Category: Farming

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dual Russian And Israeli National Extradited To The United States For His Role In The LockBit Ransomware Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A dual Russian and Israeli national was extradited to the United States on charges that he was a developer of the LockBit ransomware group, United States Attorney John Giordano announced.

    In August, Rostislav Panev, 51, was arrested in Israel pursuant to a U.S. provisional arrest request.  Today, Panev was extradited to the United States and had an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge André M. Espinosa where Panev was detained pending trial.

    “Rostislav Panev’s extradition to the District of New Jersey makes it clear: if you are a member of the LockBit ransomware conspiracy, the United States will find you and bring you to justice,” said United States Attorney John Giordano. “Even as the means and methods of cybercriminals become more sophisticated, my Office and our FBI, Criminal Division, and international law enforcement partners are more committed than ever to prosecuting these criminals.”

    “No one is safe from ransomware attacks, from individuals to institutions. Along with our international partners, the FBI continues to leave no stone unturned when it comes to following LockBit’s trail of destruction. We will continue to work tirelessly to prevent actors, such as Panev, from hacking their way to financial gain,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Newark Division Terence G. Reilly.

    According to the superseding complaint, documents filed in this and related cases, and statements made in court, Panev acted as a developer of the LockBit ransomware group from its inception in or around 2019 through at least February 2024. During that time, Panev and his LockBit coconspirators grew LockBit into what was, at times, the most active and destructive ransomware group in the world. The LockBit group attacked more than 2,500 victims in at least 120 countries around the world, including 1,800 in the United States. Their victims ranged from individuals and small businesses to multinational corporations, including hospitals, schools, nonprofit organizations, critical infrastructure, and government and law-enforcement agencies. LockBit’s members extracted at least $500 million in ransom payments from their victims and caused billions of dollars in other losses, including lost revenue and costs from incident response and recovery.

    LockBit’s members were comprised of “developers,” like Panev, who designed the LockBit malware code and maintained the infrastructure on which LockBit operated. LockBit’s other members, called “affiliates,” carried out LockBit attacks and extorted ransom payments from LockBit victims. LockBit’s developers and affiliates would then split the ransom payments which were extorted from victims.

    As alleged in the superseding complaint, at the time of Panev’s arrest in Israel in August, law enforcement discovered on Panev’s computer administrator credentials for an online repository that was hosted on the dark web and stored source code for multiple versions of the LockBit builder, which allowed LockBit’s affiliates to generate custom builds of the LockBit ransomware malware for particular victims. On that repository, law enforcement also discovered source code for LockBit’s StealBit tool, which helped LockBit affiliates exfiltrate data stolen through LockBit attacks. Law enforcement also discovered access credentials for the LockBit control panel, an online dashboard maintained by LockBit developers for LockBit’s affiliates and hosted by those developers on the dark web.

    The superseding complaint also alleges that Panev exchanged direct messages through a cybercriminal forum with LockBit’s primary administrator, who, in an indictment unsealed in the District of New Jersey in May, the United States alleged to be Dimitry Yuryevich Khoroshev (Дмитрий Юрьевич Хорошев), also known as LockBitSupp, LockBit, and putinkrab. In those messages, Panev and the LockBit primary administrator discussed work that needed to be done on the LockBit builder and control panel.

    Court documents further indicate that, between June 2022 and February 2024, the primary LockBit administrator made a series of transfers of cryptocurrency, laundered through one or more illicit cryptocurrency mixing services, of approximately $10,000 per month to a cryptocurrency wallet owned by Panev. Those transfers amounted to over $230,000 during that period.

    In interviews with Israeli authorities following his arrest in August, Panev admitted to having performed coding, development, and consulting work for the LockBit group and to having received regular payments in cryptocurrency for that work, consistent with the transfers identified by U.S. authorities. Among the work that Panev admitted to having completed for the LockBit group was the development of code to disable antivirus software; to deploy malware to multiple computers connected to a victim network; and to print the LockBit ransom note to all printers connected to a victim network. Panev also admitted to having written and maintained LockBit malware code and to having provided technical guidance to the LockBit group.

    The LockBit Investigation

    The superseding complaint against, and apprehension of, Panev follows a disruption of LockBit ransomware in February 2024 by the U.K. National Crime Agency (NCA)’s Cyber Division, which worked in cooperation with the Justice Department, FBI, and other international law enforcement partners. As previously announced by the Department, authorities disrupted LockBit by seizing numerous public-facing websites used by LockBit to connect to the organization’s infrastructure and by seizing control of servers used by LockBit administrators, thereby disrupting the ability of LockBit actors to attack and encrypt networks and extort victims by threatening to publish stolen data. That disruption succeeded in greatly diminishing LockBit’s reputation and its ability to attack further victims, as alleged by documents filed in this case.

    The superseding complaint against Panev also follows charges brought in the District of New Jersey against other LockBit members, including its alleged primary creator, developer, and administrator, Dmitry Yuryevich Khoroshev. An indictment against Khoroshev unsealed in May alleges that Khoroshev began developing LockBit as early as September 2019, continued acting as the group’s administrator through 2024, a role in which Khoroshev recruited new affiliate members, spoke for the group publicly under the alias “LockBitSupp,” and developed and maintained the infrastructure used by affiliates to deploy LockBit attacks. Khoroshev is currently the subject of a reward of up to $10 million through the U.S. Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) Rewards Program, with information accepted through the FBI tip website at www.tips.fbi.gov/.

    A total of seven LockBit members have now been charged in the District of New Jersey. Beyond Panev and Khoroshev, other previously charged LockBit defendants include:

    • In July, two LockBit affiliate members, Mikhail Vasiliev, also known as Ghostrider, Free, Digitalocean90, Digitalocean99, Digitalwaters99, and Newwave110, and Ruslan Astamirov, also known as BETTERPAY, offtitan, and Eastfarmer, pleaded guilty in the District of New Jersey for their participation in the LockBit ransomware group and admitted deploying multiple LockBit attacks against U.S. and foreign victims. Vasiliev and Astamirov are presently in custody awaiting sentencing.
    • In February 2024, in parallel with the disruption operation described above, an indictment was unsealed in the District of New Jersey charging Russian nationals Artur Sungatov and Ivan Kondratyev, also known as Bassterlord, with deploying LockBit against numerous victims throughout the United States, including businesses nationwide in the manufacturing and other industries, as well as victims around the world in the semiconductor and other industries. Sungatov and Kondratyev remain at large.
    • In May 2023, two indictments were unsealed in Washington, D.C., and the District of New Jersey charging Mikhail Matveev, also known as Wazawaka, m1x, Boriselcin, and Uhodiransomwar, with using different ransomware variants, including LockBit, to attack numerous victims throughout the United States, including the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Police Department. Matveev remains at large and is currently the subject of a reward of up to $10 million through the U.S. Department of State’s TOC Rewards Program, with information accepted through the FBI tip website at www.tips.fbi.gov/.

    The U.S. Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime (TOC) Rewards Program is offering rewards of:

    Information is accepted through the FBI tip website at tips.fbi.gov.

    Khoroshev, Matveev, Sungatov, and Kondratyev have also been designated for sanctions by the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control for their roles in launching cyberattacks.

    Victim Assistance

    LockBit victims are encouraged to contact the FBI and submit information at www.ic3.gov. As announced by the Department in February, law enforcement, through its disruption efforts, has developed decryption capabilities that may enable hundreds of victims around the world to restore systems encrypted using the LockBit ransomware variant. Submitting information at the IC3 site will enable law enforcement to determine whether affected systems can be successfully decrypted.

    LockBit victims are also encouraged to visit www.justice.gov/usao-nj/lockbit for case updates and information regarding their rights under U.S. law, including the right to submit victim impact statements and request restitution, in the criminal litigation against Panev, Astamirov, and Vasiliev.

    The FBI Newark Field Office, under the supervision of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly, is investigating the LockBit ransomware variant. Israel’s Office of the State Attorney, Department of International Affairs, and Israel National Police; France’s Gendarmerie Nationale Cyberspace Command, Paris Prosecution Office — Cyber Division, and judicial authorities at the Tribunal Judiciare of Paris; Europol; Eurojust; the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency; Germany’s Landeskriminalamt Schleswig-Holstein, Bundeskriminalamt, and the Central Cybercrime Department North Rhine-Westphalia; Switzerland’s Federal Office of Justice, Public Prosecutor’s Office of the Canton of Zurich, and Zurich Cantonal Police; Spain’s Policia Nacional and Guardia Civil; authorities in Japan; Australian Federal Police; Sweden’s Polismyndighetens; Canada’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police; Politie Dienst Regionale Recherche Oost-Brabant of the Netherlands; and Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation have provided significant assistance and coordination in these matters and in the LockBit investigation generally.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew M. Trombly, David E. Malagold, and Vinay Limbachia for the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorneys Debra Ireland and Jorge Gonzalez of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) are prosecuting the charges against Panev and the other previously charged LockBit defendants in the District of New Jersey.

    The Justice Department’s former Cybercrime Liaison Prosecutor to Eurojust, Office of International Affairs, and National Security Division also provided significant assistance.

    Additional details on protecting networks against LockBit ransomware are available at StopRansomware.gov. These include Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Advisories AA23-325A, AA23-165A, and AA23-075A. 

    The charges and allegations contained in the superseding complaint and above-named Indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    ###

    Defense counsel: Frank Arleo, Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: China advances food security amid record grain output

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China’s grain supply and demand remain in a tight balance, and food security must remain a top priority despite record-breaking production, Agriculture Minister Han Jun said during an interview on the sidelines of the ongoing third session of the 14th National People’s Congress on Saturday.

    Although the country encountered severe weather challenges last year, including extreme heat, droughts and typhoons, its grain output reached a record 700 million metric tons, an increase of 11 million tons from the previous year, Han said.

    The per capita grain availability has exceeded the global average, with major staple crops like rice and wheat achieving a self-sufficiency rate above 95 percent.

    However, Han noted a structural gap in feed grains, which require imports to balance domestic demand, Han said.

    “While our food supply is generally stable, the balance remains tight,” he said, adding that total grain consumption will continue to grow.

    Han also highlighted the difficulty of increasing grain production, warning against complacency.

    “As a nation of 1.4 billion people, we must rely on ourselves to feed our population. We cannot depend on others,” he said. “Ensuring food security is a fundamental priority, and we must always remain vigilant.”

    According to this year’s Government Work Report, the grain output target is set at around 700 million tons as part of its key economic and social development objectives.

    “This goal can be achieved through scientific planning and policy implementation,” Han said.

    He also underscored the potential for yield improvements, particularly in corn and soybeans, outlining plans to enhance oil crop production and innovation in the seed industry.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China’s top legislature vows high-quality legislation, oversight to serve national interest

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China’s top legislature vows high-quality legislation, oversight to serve national interest

    BEIJING, March 8 — The Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s top legislature, on Saturday unveiled its annual work plan for 2025, vowing to advance high-quality legislative work and conduct effective oversight to serve the overall national interest.

    Chinese national lawmakers on Saturday started deliberating the work report of the NPC Standing Committee at the ongoing NPC annual session.

    To ensure constitutional implementation and strengthen compliance oversight, the NPC Standing Committee will improve the systems ensuring comprehensive implementation of the Constitution and establish a system for reporting on its implementation, the report said, adding that the legislature will enhance its capacity to conduct constitutional review and normative document recording and review.

    HIGH-QUALITY LEGISLATION

    In the annual legislative plan, the NPC Standing Committee unveiled several key areas for the coming year.

    In order to strengthen the legal framework for the development of the socialist market economy, the NPC Standing Committee will formulate a law on promoting the private sector, a law on national development planning, a financial law, a financial stability law, and a law on cultivated land protection and quality improvement.

    It will also revise the Unfair Competition Law, the Enterprise Bankruptcy Law, the Agriculture Law, the Fisheries Law, the Civil Aviation Law, and the Banking Regulation Law, according to the report.

    In the social and cultural sectors, the legislature will formulate a law promoting public awareness and education regarding the rule of law, a social assistance law, a childcare services law, and a law on public-interest litigation initiated by procuratorates.

    It will also revise the Law on the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases and the Law on the Standard Spoken and Written Chinese Language, the report said.

    With a focus on refining the systems concerning ecological conservation, the legislature will continue with the compilation of an environmental code and formulate a national parks law and an atomic energy law.

    To modernize the national security system and public security governance mechanisms, the NPC Standing Committee will formulate a law on public health emergency response and a hazardous chemicals safety law. It will also revise the Road Traffic Safety Law, the Food Safety Law, the Cybersecurity Law, the Public Security Administrative Penalties Law, the Prison Law, and the State Compensation Law.

    In regard to legislation in areas involving foreign affairs, the legislature will revise the Maritime Law, the Foreign Trade Law, and the Arbitration Law, according to the report.

    The NPC Standing Committee also vowed to intensify research on legislation in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and big data.

    EFFECTIVE OVERSIGHT, LEVERAGING LAWMAKER ROLE

    The report noted that the legislature has prepared 37 oversight programs for this year, including inspections into the implementation of five laws: the Trade Union Law, the Energy Conservation Law, the Forest Law, the Food Safety Law, and the Law on Promoting the Circular Economy.

    The NPC Standing Committee will hear and deliberate special reports on a variety of issues, such as fostering new quality productive forces, promoting integrated development of the cultural and tourism sectors, protecting the rights and interests of workers in flexible and new forms of employment, and climate change action.

    On measures to fully leverage the roles of NPC deputies, the legislature will encourage deputies to engage the people on a broader range of issues and in more diverse forms, and will continue to improve working mechanisms for handling and giving feedback on public opinions brought forward by deputies.

    The NPC Standing Committee will also carry out a research project on the election of deputies to county- and township-level people’s congresses, according to the report.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mass Firings at USFS and USDA Leave WA More Vulnerable to Wildfire Risks, Warns Cantwell in Letter to Agency Heads

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    03.08.25
    Mass Firings at USFS and USDA Leave WA More Vulnerable to Wildfire Risks, Warns Cantwell in Letter to Agency Heads
    Among those swept up in indiscriminate firings of U.S. Forest Service and Department of Agriculture employees were many with wildland firefighting certifications; Cantwell demands further information, reinstatement of fired personnel
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) joined Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) and Reps. Kim Schrier (D, WA-08), Rick Larsen (D, WA-02), and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-03) in sending a letter to U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Chief Tom Schultz on the recent firings of hundreds of USDA and USFS employees. The letter requests that Sec. Rollins and Chief Schultz provide details about the Washington state personnel who were fired, including how many held “Red Cards,” which certify individuals for wildland firefighting. Further, it asks for the immediate reinstatement of all fired USDA and USFS personnel.
    “Amidst increasingly common extreme weather in the region, now is not the time to gut a workforce charged with wildland firefighting and mitigation for a quarter of the state’s lands. While public safety roles were supposedly exempted, we’re gravely concerned about reports that USFS staff who support wildfire response or mitigation, as well as staff with firefighting certifications that serve in roles with dual purposes, were terminated,” wrote the lawmakers in the letter. “Without dedicated support staff, USFS risks losing critical functions like coordinating resources, managing incident command, and providing medical assistance. This compromises both the safety of those on the frontlines and their ability to defend nearby communities.”
    The letter also highlighted the economic contribution that well-managed public lands provide to Washington state. USFS lands in Washington see over 7 million visitors annually, and nearly $1 billion is spent annually in communities around National Forests in the state.
    “Recreational activities managed by the USFS play a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of local communities in Washington State, driving economic growth and fostering a deeper connection to the natural environment,” continued Sen. Cantwell and her colleagues. “Outdoor recreation is the largest single use of National Forest lands, and USFS in Washington State maintains nearly 12,000 miles of trails and field over 7 million visits per year. Nearly $1 billion is spent annually in communities around the National Forests in Washington, benefiting local businesses as an economic driver of the region.”
    Sen. Cantwell has slammed the Trump Administration’s recent mass firings of civil servants as overbroad, dangerous to the public, and at times illegal.
    In January 2025, Sen. Cantwell introduced the Fire Ready Nation Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) ability to help forecast, prevent, and fight wildfires. Weeks later, in February, when the Trump Administration laid off at least 880 workers from NOAA, Sen. Cantwell railed against the decision. She had earlier sent a letter to Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick urging him to protect NOAA and the National Weather Service’s hiring ability, highlighting their crucial role in wildfire prevention, among other key tasks.
    As wildfires in the West become more frequent and intense, Sen. Cantwell has constantly strived to ensure communities have the resources to prevent, prepare for, fight, and recover from major wildfires. In January 2024, Sen. Cantwell co-introduced the Making Aid for Local Disasters Equal Now (MALDEN) Act, a bipartisan proposal to improve coordination between local, state, tribal, and federal agencies to deliver resources faster in the aftermath of disastrous wildfires. The MALDEN Act is named for the town of Malden, WA, which was destroyed by the 2020 Babb Road Fire.
    In 2021’s landmark Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Sen. Cantwell secured billions of dollars to support wildfire prevention, response, and recovery.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Women in Agriculture: Minister Sigurdson

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: How AI Has Advanced Healthcare & Start-Up Empowers Millions of Farmers | WEF | Top Stories Week

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    This week’s top stories of the week include:

    0:15 5 ways AI has advanced healthcare – AI is improving surgery in a number of ways. From building ideal surgical plans for patients to guiding surgeons through tricky procedures.Globally, 4.5 billion people lack access to essential healthcare services. AI could help bridge that gap. Yet healthcare is ‘below average’ in its adoption of AI compared to other industries.

    4:42 Start-up empowers millions of farmers – Farmerline is revolutionizing agriculture in Africa with its AI-driven interactive voice response tool, Darli AI. Available in 27 languages, including 20 African languages, Darli serves as a 911 for farmers—providing critical farming insights in a language they understand. Research shows that farmers are 60% more likely to adopt new techniques when information is delivered in their native language.

    7:56 Workplace traditions we should rethink – Adam Grant is an organizational psychologist and professor at Wharton. Traditional hierarchies can stifle innovation, he says. One ‘no’ from on high can be all it takes to kill an idea. So, instead of a ladder with just one route upwards, what about a corporate lattice?

    10:58 Why businesses need geopolitical muscle – Nikolaus Lang is Chair of the BCG Center for Geopolitics. As the world becomes more multipolar, with power centres outside the West in China, Russia, and increasingly the Global South, shifting trade flows are breaking down old alliances, and economic nationalism is on the rise. In this environment, businesses can put on ‘geopolitical muscle’ by focusing on 2 key elements.
    _____________________________________________

    The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation. The Forum engages the foremost political, business, cultural and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. We believe that progress happens by bringing together people from all walks of life who have the drive and the influence to make positive change.

    World Economic Forum Website ► http://www.weforum.org/
    Facebook ► https://www.facebook.com/worldeconomicforum/
    YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/wef
    Instagram ► https://www.instagram.com/worldeconomicforum/ 
    Twitter ► https://twitter.com/wef
    LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/world-economic-forum
    TikTok ► https://www.tiktok.com/@worldeconomicforum
    Flipboard ► https://flipboard.com/@WEF

    #WorldEconomicForum

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiYgYTVwbcM

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two who Trespassed Historical Site at National Park Sentenced

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Roxanne McKnight, 39, and Dusty Spencer, 43, of Durango, Colorado, were sentenced today after they trespassed onto a fenced-off historical site at Canyonlands National Park and disturbed artifacts on display.

    McKnight was sentenced to a one-year ban from federal public lands in Utah and one year of probation. Spencer was sentenced a two-year ban from federal public lands in Utah and two years’ probation.

    In addition to their bans, a U.S. Magistrate Judge ordered McKnight and Spencer to pay fines and restitution totaling $1,500. The sentence comes after the defendants pleaded guilty to possessing or disturbing cultural or archaeological resources, and walking on or entering archeological or cultural resource, Class B misdemeanors.

    According to court documents and statements made at McKnight’s and Spencer’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, on March 23, 2024, McKnight and Spencer, entered a fenced-off area of Canyonlands National Park where they then handled numerous historic artifacts preserved in the Cave Springs Cowboy Camp. The artifacts include an antique horse tack and cabinetry. This historic camp was protected by fencing and clear warnings prohibiting visitors from entering the area, which McKnight and Spencer disregarded.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case was investigated by the National Park Service (NPS).

    Assistant United States Attorneys Luisa Gough and Tanner Zumwalt of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Celebrates Trump Administration Actions Supporting Agriculture

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Celebrates Trump Administration Actions Supporting Agriculture

    LINCOLN, NE – In an editorial published today by Fox News, Governor Jim Pillen is celebrating the immediate actions of President Donald Trump and Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins in addressing soaring egg prices and combatting avian flu. In his piece, “Smart Policy and Cheaper Eggs,”the Governor said strong leadership is necessary for effective management of animal disease and outbreak, which will ensure farmers and ranchers can produce the highest quality and safest food available.

    Gov. Pillen has had several meetings involving USDA’s Rollins, who last week, unveiled a five-point plan for addressing the avian flu crisis. The Governor said he is encouraged that the President’s administration is listening to and is ready to address issues currently impacting the ag sector. 

    An excerpt of the editorial follows:

    “Nebraska’s fields and pasture lands are expansive – about 90% of our land is devoted to farming and ranching. I’ve seen it firsthand: as rural goes, so goes agriculture. Secretary Rollins believes this, and she is an advocate for us. I’ve heard her articulate a vision for rural economic prosperity and development that will go a long way in giving our families and communities a boost.

    We need to work with our federal partners to help build this roadmap for American agriculture. We know our potential is second to none. We have the best people and plentiful water, crops, and livestock.  With great optimism and renewed partnerships, this season of leadership and newfound opportunity will lead to a long-lasting period of abundance – and cheaper eggs – for the American people.”

     

    The full article is available here on Fox News. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Continues Advocating to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    “It’s time for America to move forward and stop falling back.”
    WASHINGTON – As Americans prepare to “spring forward” this weekend,U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke on the floor about the many benefits of making Daylight Saving Time (DST) permanent at the federal level. Sen. Tuberville has helped introduce the Sunshine Protection Act in the 117th, 118th, and 119th congresses.
    Nineteen states—including Alabama—have passed legislation to make DST permanent, but it must first be made permanent at the federal level.
    Read Sen. Tuberville’s remarks below or on YouTube or Rumble.

    “Well, it’s that time again. I think I’ve given this speech three or four times in the last few years.
    This weekend, all of America and my constituents back in Alabama will spring forward to Daylight Saving Time. And I’m working very hard to make this hopefully, possibly the last time that we move our clocks. I recently joined my colleague, Senator Rick Scott, to reintroduce, for the third time, the Sunshine Protection Act to make Daylight Saving Time permanent, at the federal level.
    Out of all the legislative efforts that I’ve been part of in my four years here in Congress, the thing I hear about the most from my people in Alabama is their desire to lock the clock. Daylight Saving Time should be a thing of the past—because it literally is a thing of the past. 
    First, introduced as a temporary measure during World War I, Daylight Saving Time was originally called, ‘Wartime.’ And it was a way to help conserve fuel during a very different time in this country. Following the end of World War I, in 1918, [the] Standard Time Act was enacted that discontinued Daylight Saving Time nationally, but individual states continued to spring forward and fall back.
    Then during World War II, there was a renewed federal push for full-time Daylight Saving Time, which then was repealed in 1945. Finally, in 1966, Congress passed legislation to establish national standards for Daylight Saving Time.
    All of this to say, changes to our clock might have made sense when it first began many, many years ago. For one, the American workforce culture and lifestyles are vastly different than they were a hundred years ago. Plus, disruptive time change can have serious consequences on human health. Studies have suggested that the disruption of sleep patterns due to the time changes increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases and physical injuries. Northwestern Medicine found that the fallback and the spring forward are connected to a 6% spike in fatal car accidents and a 24% higher risk of heart attacks. […] Additionally, the long-term health effects linked to Daylight Saving Time include weight gain, cluster headaches, and depression. The time switch in the fall increases Seasonal Affective Disorder every single year. And a study published in 2017 found that the transition from Daylight Saving Time to Standard Time increase the number of hospital visits for depression by 11%. 
    By making Daylight Saving Time permanent, Americans would enjoy more sunshine in the evenings. This is so important for many Americans who may not get a chance to get outside during the day. It would allow hard working Americans to go on a run after work or enable dads to play with their kids outdoors, neighbors grill and do things together outside. What a thought? Many studies have proven that extra sunlight in the evening can lead to improvements in mental health, physical fitness, economic growth, and well-being. 
    As a founding member of the Senate MAHA Caucus, I am very passionate about helping make Americans healthy again. An important part of this is making sure people get enough sleep and more sunlight. Did you know that Vitamin D from the sun is linked to preventing many diseases including cancer? It’s true, and many Americans don’t get nearly enough of Vitamin D, especially those who work at desk jobs and are inside for most of the day, and that has increased since the invention of what we call the computer. Locking the clock is an important first step to helping Americans live healthier lives. It’s a simple way we could positively impact the day-to-day life of all Americans. Our farmers are also greatly affected by Daylight Saving Time as additional sunshine during working hours means more time to work in the fields, which could translate into a more profitable bottom line for anybody that raises a crop. All you know, I’m all about helping our great farmers.
    More daylight in the evening could also decrease expensive energy consumption on farms by reducing the need for artificial lighting and heating. Back in the 1970s, we had an energy crisis. And we kept Daylight Saving Time because it saved millions and millions of gallons of fuel. Experts believe that the time change twice a year costs the U.S. economy more than 434 million dollars in lost productivity annually.
    It’s clear the evidence points to one conclusion, make Daylight Saving Time permanent. Nineteen states, including my state of Alabama, have already voted on past legislation to make Daylight Saving Time permanent. They just need Congress, which means us, to vote for it. If we vote for it, it changes, and we’d never have to move the clock again.
    President Trump has also expressed support for locking the clock. Congress should listen to the people and pass the Sunshine Protection Act to make Daylight Saving Time permanent. The change would improve our health, strengthen our economy and benefit our farmers. This is a no brainer.
    It’s time for America to move forward and stop falling back. I’m looking forward to working with my Senate colleagues to get it completely across the finish line, to lock the clock once and for all.”
    MORE:
    Tuberville Continues Leading Effort to Make Daylight Savings Time Permanent in the Senate
    Tuberville: “Daylight Saving Time should be a thing of the past.”
    Tuberville Continues Push to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent
    Tuberville: Let’s Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent
    Tuberville Urges Congress to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent
    Tuberville Continues Push to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent
    Tuberville: Daylight Saving Time Bill Passes Senate 
    Tuberville Pushes to Make Daylight Saving Time Permanent 
    Tuberville Joins Push to Permanently Adopt Daylight Saving Time
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Cosponsors Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Protect the Rights of American Workers to Organize

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Cosponsors Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Protect the Rights of American Workers to Organize

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) joined Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and a bipartisan group of Senate and House colleagues in introducing the Richard L. Trumka Protecting the Right to Organize Act (PRO Act), comprehensive labor legislation to protect the rights of workers to stand together and bargain for fairer wages, better benefits, and safer workplaces. The legislation was renamed in honor of former AFL-CIO President Richard L. Trumka.

    The American people’s support for unions is surging. According to a 2024 Gallup poll, 70 percent of Americans approve of labor unions — remaining at near record highs. Despite this growing support, billionaire- and special interest-funded attacks on the rights of workers, unions, and labor laws have eroded union density and made it harder for workers to organize. The share of American workers who are union members has fallen from roughly one in three workers in 1956 to a new low of around one in 10 in 2024. The PRO Act restores fairness to the economy by strengthening the federal law that protects the right of workers to join a union and bargain for higher pay, better benefits, and safer workplaces.

    The legislation is led by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Representative Bobby Scott (D-Va.-03), alongside Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.-08), House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-Mass.-05), and Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.). It is cosponsored by every Democratic Senator.

    “As Donald Trump and Elon Musk take a chainsaw to the federal workforce and longstanding labor guardrails, the right to unionize is under attack,” said Senator Padilla. “Every worker deserves access to the protections offered by unions, which help level the playing field and fight against corrupt corporate power grabs by Trump’s billionaire donors. Unions help workers achieve improved working conditions, living wages, and broader benefits. I am committed to ensuring Congress does its part to protect workers and make it easier for them to bargain for fair compensation for their work. That starts with finally passing the PRO Act.”

    “Never before in the history of our nation have income and wealth inequality been greater than today. Workers are falling further and further behind. In response, millions of Americans have expressed their desire to join a union,” said Senator Sanders. “However, the billionaire class is fighting with all its might to put down attempts by workers to exercise their constitutional right to unionize. That includes the decision by President Trump to illegally fire National Labor Relations Board Member Gwynne Wilcox and effectively shut down the NLRB. Without a functioning NLRB, corporate bosses can illegally fire unionizing workers, flagrantly violate labor laws and render free and fair union elections near impossible. Supporting the immediate reinstatement of Member Wilcox and the swift passage of the PRO Act would be major steps toward building real worker power. The PRO Act is long overdue and I am proud to be introducing this bill in the Senate.”

    “Americans believe in the power of unions and tens of millions of working people would become union members tomorrow if they could. But American labor law is broken, weighted on the side of the bosses and against the workers. In too many workplaces, in too many industries across the country, big corporations and billionaire CEOs still retaliate against us for organizing. They refuse to negotiate our contracts, force us to sit through hours of anti-union propaganda, and engage in illegal union-busting every day. Now they have an unelected, unaccountable, union-buster trying to illegally fire tens of thousands of our fellow workers in federal jobs and an administration rolling back the workplace protections. The PRO Act is long overdue, and the American people agree. We urge elected leaders of both parties to move this critical legislation forward so that all workers have the chance to stand together and build better lives for themselves and their families,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler.

    Large corporations and the wealthy continue to reap the rewards of a growing economy while working families and middle-class Americans are left behind. From 1979 to 2023, annual wages for the bottom 90 percent of households increased just 44 percent, while average incomes for the wealthiest 1 percent increased more than 180 percent.

    Unions are critical to increasing wages and creating a strong economy that rewards hardworking people. Through the power of collective bargaining, the typical union worker earns 16 percent more than the typical non-union worker.

    Specifically, the PRO Act would protect the right to organize and collectively bargain by:

    • Bolstering remedies and punishing violations of the rights of workers through authorizing meaningful penalties for employers that violate their rights, strengthening support for workers who suffer retaliation for exercising their rights, and authorizing a private right of action for violation of the rights of workers.
    • Strengthening the rights of workers to join together and negotiate for better working conditions by enhancing their right to support secondary boycotts, ensuring unions can collect “fair share” fees, modernizing the union election process, and facilitating initial collective bargaining agreements.
    • Restoring fairness to an economy rigged against workers by closing loopholes that allow employers to misclassify their employees as supervisors and independent contractors and increasing transparency in labor-management relations.

    Organizations endorsing the PRO Act include the AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), United Autoworkers (UAW), United Steelworkers (USW), Communications Workers of America (CWA), National Nurses United (NNU), International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE), National Postal Mail Handlers Union (NPMHU), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), the American Federation of Musicians, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA), Transport Workers Union (TWU), International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), and the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT).

    Senator Padilla is a longtime advocate for protecting workers’ rights and fighting for their safety. Padilla recently introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to ensure that truckers are compensated fairly for the hours that they are on the clock, including overtime. Last month, Padilla joined every Democratic senator and a bipartisan group of 213 Representatives in urging President Trump to immediately reinstate National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) Member Gwynne Wilcox and restore the NLRB’s ability to protect the rights of American workers to organize and collectively bargain. In 2023, Padilla announced the Asunción Valdivia Heat, Illness, Injury and Fatality Prevention Act to protect the safety and health of workers who are exposed to dangerous heat conditions in the workplace. He also cosponsored a pair of bills to hold companies who engage in union busting activities accountable and to protect striking workers’ access to health care. Additionally, he introduced the Fairness for Farm Workers Act, legislation to update the nation’s labor laws to ensure farm workers receive fairer wages and compensation. Padilla previously cosponsored the Nationwide Right to Unionize Act, legislation that would support the right to unionize by prohibiting states from banning union security agreements through “right-to-work” laws.

    A one-pager on the bill is available here. A section-by-section summary of the bill is available here.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Import ban of cattle, pigs, sheep and deer from Hungary and Slovakia to protect farmers after foot and mouth case

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Import ban of cattle, pigs, sheep and deer from Hungary and Slovakia to protect farmers after foot and mouth case

    Import ban introduced to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease.

    The government has stepped up measures to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease (FMD), following a confirmed case in Hungary. 

    The Government has acted immediately to prevent the commercial import from Hungary and Slovakia of cattle, pigs, sheep, goats and other non- domestic ruminants and porcines such as deer and their untreated products, such as fresh meat and dairy. This will protect farmers and their livestock. 

    The case has been found on a cattle farm in the North West of Hungary, near the border with Slovakia. Observed clinical signs were reported to national authorities who have now formally confirmed infection with FMD following testing.   

    Action is already underway with local authorities and traders to address possible risks from goods on the way to GB. Such goods must be pre-notified and wider border systems in place will prevent consignments entering GB. This is in addition to restrictions already in place for equivalent exports from Germany, following an outbreak in a water buffalo herd in Brandenburg on 10 January 2025.   

    In addition, as of 8 March, travellers will no longer be able to bring meat, meat products, milk and dairy products, certain composite products and animal by products of pigs and ruminants from Hungary and Slovakia to Great Britain.    

    The UK Chief Veterinary Officer is urging livestock keepers to remain vigilant to the clinical signs of FMD following the recent outbreaks in Hungary and Germany. There are no cases in the UK currently.  

    FMD poses no risk to human or food safety, but is a highly contagious viral disease of cattle, sheep, pigs and other cloven-hoofed animals such as deer, llamas and alpacas. Rodents can also be affected. Livestock keepers should therefore be absolutely rigorous about their biosecurity.  

    FMD causes significant economic losses due to production losses in the affected animals as well as loss of access to foreign markets for animals, meat and milk for affected countries.  

    UK Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Christine Middlemiss said:  

    We remain in contact with our Hungarian counterparts to understand the latest situation following their confirmation of a single case of foot and mouth disease, measures are now being taken to contain and eradicate the outbreak.

    I would urge livestock keepers to exercise the upmost vigilance for signs of disease, follow scrupulous biosecurity and report any suspicion of disease immediately to the Animal and Plant Health Agency.  

    Farming Minister Daniel Zeichner said:  

    The government will do whatever it takes to protect our nation’s farmers from the risk posed by foot and mouth disease.  

    That is why restrictions have immediately been brought in on animal products from Hungary and Slovakia to prevent an outbreak. We will not hesitate to add additional countries to the list if the disease spreads. We will continue to keep the situation under review working closely with the Hungarian and Slovakian authorities.

    Action is already underway with local authorities and traders to address possible risks from goods on the way to GB. Such goods must be pre-notified and wider border systems in place will prevent consignments entering GB. This is in addition to restrictions already in place for equivalent exports from Germany, following an outbreak in a water buffalo herd in Brandenburg on 10 January 2025.   

    This comes as the government announced a £200 million investment in the UK’s main research and laboratory testing facilities at Weybridge to bolster protection against animal disease.  

    What you can do  

    If you’re an animal keeper, read about how to spot foot and mouth disease and report it.  

    If you’re an importer or exporter, read about the import restrictions for foot and mouth disease.   

    Clinical signs to be aware of vary depending on the animals, but in cattle the main signs are sores and blisters on the feet, mouth and tongue with potentially a fever, lameness and a reluctance to feed. In sheep and pigs, signs tend to manifest with lameness with potential for blistering.    

    Maintaining good biosecurity is essential to protecting the health and welfare of herds and critical to preventing the spread of diseases such as FMD and preventing an outbreak spreading.  

    Foot and mouth disease is a notifiable disease and must be reported. If you suspect foot and mouth disease in your animals, you must report it immediately by calling:  

    • 03000 200 301 in England   

    • 0300 303 8268 in Wales   

    • your local  Field Services Office in Scotland  

    For more information, visit: Imports, exports and EU trade of animals and animal products: topical issues – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Heinrich Join Colleagues in Urging USDA to Reinstate Hispanic-Serving Institution Fellowship Program That Has Served New Mexico Students and Educational Institutions

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    Senators to USDA: “The Department’s decision to suspend EKDLG Fellowship Program threatens the U.S. agricultural workforce pipeline and the opportunities this program provides educators and students nationwide”
    NMSU Was Part of 2024 Fellowship Program That Supported our Nation’s Agricultural Workforce
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee, and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and 9 of their colleagues in calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to immediately reinstate its HSI E. Kika De La Garza (EKDLG) Fellowship Program. The program, suspended by the Trump administration, supports the nation’s agricultural workforce while uplifting professionals and students of all backgrounds at HSIs, including non-Latino students. Last year, staff at NMSU was selected for the 2024 EKDLG Fellowship Program.
    USDA established the nonpartisan EKDLG Fellowship Program in 1998, designing the program to strengthen educational partnerships between faculty, staff, and administrators from HSIs and USDA. These partnerships support professional development, workforce development, and exposure opportunities for Hispanic-Serving Institutions nationwide, offering critical insight and understanding of the federal government.
    “USDA’s partnership with HSIs and Hispanic Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities (HSACUs) plays a vital role in establishing a collaborative relationship and creating a nationwide network of educators working with USDA to help grow the next generation of the American agricultural workforce,” wrote the Senators.
    “The Department’s decision to suspend EKDLG Fellowship Program threatens the U.S. agricultural workforce pipeline and the opportunities this program provides educators and students nationwide,” continued the Senators. “We urge you to immediately reinstate the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program, similar to Department’s reinstatement of the 1890 National Scholars Program, and to collaborate with Congress to ensure its long-term stability.”
    Programs like the USDA EKDLG Fellowship Program are built to help students reach their full potential and reinforce America’s agricultural workforce pipeline. The 2024 EKDLG Program included eight fellowships in Texas, six in Arizona, five in California, four in New York, two in Illinois, one in New Mexico, one in Colorado, one in New Jersey, one in Florida, one in Connecticut, and one in Washington.
    Hispanic-Serving Institutions are not-for-profit institutions of higher learning with 25 percent or higher total undergraduate Hispanic or Latino full-time students. There are 600 HSIs in the United States that enroll over 5.2 million Hispanic students, two-thirds of all Hispanic undergraduates, and 32.2 percent of total Pell Grant recipients — empowering and improving communities.
    In addition to Senators Luján, Heinrich, Padilla, and Klobuchar, the letter is also signed by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).
    The letter is endorsed by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) and UnidosUS.
    Full text of the letter is available here and below:
    Dear Secretary Rollins,
    We write to express our significant concerns about the suspension of the USDA Hispanic-Serving (HSI) E. Kika De La Garza (EKDLG) Fellowship Program and to ask that you immediately reinstate it.
    The EKDLG Fellowship Program was established in 1998 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the program has had consistent support from every presidential administration since its establishment. The program strengthens educational partnerships between faculty, staff, and administrators from HSIs and USDA.
    The EKDLG Fellowship Program is non-partisan and supports increasing the professional development, workforce development, and exposure opportunities for faculty, staff, and students nationwide. USDA’s partnership with HSIs and Hispanic Serving Agricultural Colleges and Universities (HSACUs) plays a vital role in establishing a collaborative relationship and creating a nationwide network of educators working with USDA to help grow the next generation of the American agricultural workforce. These fellowships are open to faculty, staff, and administrators of all backgrounds that are employed at HSIs or Hispanic-Serving School Districts and students of all backgrounds are eligible to participate.
    HSIs are economic engines and shape our nation’s agricultural workforce. In 2022, HSIs enrolled 5.2 million students, including 66% of all Hispanic undergraduate students and over 31% of all college students in non-profit postsecondary institutions in the country. Programs like the EKDLG Fellowship Program equip educators with the tools to help students reach their full potential and support the nation’s agricultural workforce pipeline. For example, the list of 2024 EKDLG participants shows the program’s nationwide impact:
    1. University of Houston, Sugar Land, Texas
    2. New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico
    3. The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
    4. Arizona Western College, Yuma, Arizona
    5. Coastal Bend College, Beeville, Texas
    6. Adams State University, Alamosa, Colorado
    7. California State University, Chico, Chico, California
    8. Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey
    9. Texas A&M University, Kingsville, Texas
    10. Mesa Community College, Mesa, Arizona
    11. Hartnell College, Salinas, California
    12. Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
    13. City Colleges of Chicago, Harold Washington College, Chicago, Illinois
    14. Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
    15. Maricopa Community Colleges, Tempe, Arizona
    16. University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
    17. Waubonsee Community College, Sugar Grove, Illinois
    18. Northern Arizona University, Yuma, Arizona
    19. University of California, Santa Barbara, California
    20. Cuesta College, San Luis Obispo, California
    21. University of Texas, San Antonio, Texas
    22. CUNY New York City College of Technology, Brooklyn, New York
    23. CUNY Hunter College, New York, New York
    24. Florida International University, Miami, Florida
    25. California State University, Fresno, California
    26. Arizona State University, Mesa, Arizona
    27. Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
    28. The University of Texas, Rio Grande Valley, Edinburg, Texas
    29. Mt. Adams School District #209, White Swan, Washington
    30. The Urban Assembly New York Harbor School, New York, New York
    31. John Bowne High School, Flushing, New York
    The Department’s decision to suspend EKDLG Fellowship Program threatens the U.S. agricultural workforce pipeline and the opportunities this program provides educators and students nationwide.
    We urge you to immediately reinstate the E. Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program, similar to Department’s reinstatement of the 1890 National Scholars Program, and to collaborate with Congress to ensure its long-term stability.
    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: NI Holdings, Inc. Reports Results for Fourth Quarter and Year Ended December 31, 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FARGO, N.D., March 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NI Holdings, Inc. (“NI Holdings,” or the “Company,” NASDAQ: NODK) announced today results for the year ended December 31, 2024.

    Summary of Year-End 2024 Results
    (All comparisons vs. continuing operations for the year-end 2023, unless noted otherwise)

    • Strong fourth quarter net income of $9.9 million, with 16.2% return on average equity.
    • Fourth quarter combined ratio of 80.0%, up 1.3 pts compared to the prior year quarter, reflecting excellent underwriting results in our Private Passenger Auto and Home and Farm segments, partially offset by unfavorable prior year reserve development and further current year reserve strengthening in Non-Standard Auto.
    • Combined ratio of 100.7% for full year 2024 versus 97.0% for the prior year, driven by unfavorable prior year reserve development in Non-Standard Auto and higher loss severity and higher non-catastrophe weather-related losses in North Dakota and Nebraska Home and Farm, partially offset by lower levels of weather-related losses and a sustained moderation of severity in Private Passenger Auto.
    • Net investment income increased 36.2% to $10.9 million, driven by higher fixed income reinvestment rates.
    • Direct written premiums of $73.1 million during the quarter, down 7.9% compared to the prior year quarter and full year direct written premiums of $342.3 million, up 0.3% compared to prior year. Decrease for the quarter was driven by Non-Standard Auto, while full-year growth was driven by increased premiums in the Private Passenger Auto and Home and Farm segments, partially offset by Crop and Non-Standard Auto.
    • Net earned premiums of $71.8 million, down 3.0% compared to prior year quarter and full year net earned premiums of $310.1 million, up 6.2% compared to prior year.
    • Earnings per share of $0.47 for the current year quarter compared to $0.92 for the prior year quarter, and earnings per share of $0.31 for the current year compared to $0.93 for the prior year.
      Three Months Ended December 31,   Year Ended December 31,
    Dollars in thousands, except per share data
    (unaudited)    		 2024 2023 Change   2024 2023 Change
    Direct written premiums $73,084 $79,370 (7.9%)   $342,301 $341,234 0.3%
    Net earned premiums $71,787 $73,993 (3.0%)   $310,110 $292,117 6.2%
    Loss and LAE ratio 45.8% 43.5% 2.3 pts   66.9% 63.8% 3.1 pts
    Expense ratio 34.2% 35.2% (1.0) pts   33.8% 33.2% 0.6 pts
    Combined ratio 80.0% 78.7% 1.3 pts   100.7% 97.0% 3.7 pts
    Net income (loss) attributable to NI Holdings $9,848 $6,625 48.6%   $(6,060) $(5,476) 10.7%
    Continuing operations $9,848 $19,202 (48.7%)   $6,600 $19,581 (66.3%)
    Discontinued operations – $(12,577) NM   $(1,512) $(25,057) (94.0%)
    Loss on sale of discontinued operations – – NM   $(11,148) – NM
    Return on average equity 16.2% 32.3% (16.1) pts   2.8% 7.9% (5.1) pts
    Basic earnings (loss) per share $0.47 $0.32 46.9%   $(0.29) $(0.26) 11.5%
    Continuing operations $0.47 $0.92 (48.9%)   $0.31 $0.93 (66.7%)
    NM = not meaningful


    Management Commentary

    “I would like to reiterate the honor and privilege it is to have the opportunity to lead this organization,” said Seth Daggett, newly named President and Chief Executive Officer. “I am excited to continue to build off its excellent foundation and partner with our talented board, employees, and agents to further advance the Company toward a successful future.

    Turning to results, we were pleased with our performance during the fourth quarter, particularly our Private Passenger Auto and Home and Farm segments, which benefited from improved weather and the aggressive rate and underwriting actions we’ve taken over the past two years. Our high-quality investment portfolio once again produced strong returns, resulting in a meaningful $2.9M year-over-year increase in net investment income. We continued to face challenging operating conditions in our Non-Standard Auto business, leading to another quarter of unfavorable reserve development in the segment. To that end, in the fourth quarter we began to execute aggressive strategic actions to address these issues and will continue these efforts in the coming year.

    These actions, as well as the sale of Westminster American Insurance in the second quarter, support our immediate priority of improving our risk profile to target reduced earnings volatility, while ultimately supporting our ability to generate consistent profitable growth going forward.

    Looking ahead, we will refocus our efforts on development of a comprehensive long-term strategic plan centered around our strong and longstanding foundation in North Dakota, including increased investments in people and technology, enhanced distribution management efforts, and a renewed focus on expense management initiatives. We’re confident this plan will support our primary objective of creating lasting value for our shareholders through sustained growth and profitability over time.”

    Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Filings

    The Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and latest financial supplement can be found on the Company’s website at www.niholdingsinc.com. The Company’s filings with the SEC can also be found at www.sec.gov.

    About the Company
    NI Holdings, Inc. is an insurance holding company. The Company is a North Dakota business corporation that is the stock holding company of Nodak Insurance Company and became such in connection with the conversion of Nodak Mutual Insurance Company from a mutual to stock form of organization and the creation of a mutual holding company. The conversion was consummated on March 13, 2017. Immediately following the conversion, all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Nodak Insurance Company were issued to Nodak Mutual Group, Inc., which then contributed the shares to NI Holdings in exchange for 55% of the outstanding shares of common stock of NI Holdings. Nodak Insurance Company then became a wholly-owned stock subsidiary of NI Holdings. NI Holdings’ financial statements are the consolidated financial results of NI Holdings; Nodak Insurance, including Nodak’s wholly-owned subsidiaries American West Insurance Company, Primero Insurance Company, and Battle Creek Insurance Company; Direct Auto Insurance Company; and Westminster Insurance Company until the date of sale.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    Some of the statements included in this news release, particularly those anticipating future financial performance, including investment performance and yields, business prospects, growth and operating strategies, the impact of underwriting changes and other strategic actions on operating results, our plans to increase investments in people and technology, enhance distribution management efforts, and focus on expense management initiatives, our ability to generate consistent profitable growth and create lasting value for our shareholders, and similar matters, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results could vary materially. Factors that could cause actual results to vary materially include: our ability to maintain profitable operations, the adequacy of the loss and loss adjustment expense reserves, business and economic conditions, the changes in the international trade policies and the potential impact of such changes, interest rates, competition from various insurance and other financial businesses, terrorism, the availability and cost of reinsurance, adverse and catastrophic weather events, including the impacts of climate change, legal and judicial developments, changes in regulatory requirements, our ability to integrate and manage successfully the insurance companies we may acquire from time to time, the impact of inflation on our operating results, and other risks we describe in the periodic reports we file with the SEC. You should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. We disclaim any obligation to update such statements or to announce publicly the results of any revisions that we may make to any forward-looking statements to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

    For a detailed discussion of the risk factors that could affect our actual results, please refer to the risk factors identified in our SEC reports, including, but not limited to our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as filed with the SEC.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Matt Maki
    Executive Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer
    701-212-5976
    IR@nodakins.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth, Durbin Urge President Trump to Reverse Tariffs That Could Devastate Farmers and Raise Food Prices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth

    March 06, 2025

    [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry, along with U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), today joined 12 other Senators in urging President Trump to reconsider recently imposed tariffs that threaten American farmers, ranchers, businesses and consumers.  The tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China will make it harder for farmers to sell their products, increase input costs, and make it harder for Americans to put food on the table. President Trump has since announced that most goods from Mexico will be exempt from the recent tariffs for one month.

    In a letter to President Trump, the Senators wrote: “At a time when farmers operate on razor-thin margins due to low commodity prices and increased input costs, the chaos and uncertainty of these tariffs threatens their livelihoods. In addition to making it harder for farmers to sell their products, these tariffs will make it harder for Americans to put food on the table.”

    The Senators continued, “Farm families should not be left as collateral damage in an unnecessary trade war. We strongly encourage you to reconsider the current tariffs plan and instead consider a more targeted approach that supports American farmers, ranchers, and businesses.”

    Joining Duckworth, Durbin and Klobuchar in sending the letter were U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI).

    The full letter is available here and below:

    March 6, 2025

    Dear President Trump, 

    We write to express our deep concern about the impacts of your recent trade announcements on farmers, ranchers, and businesses across the country. 

    At a time when farmers operate on razor-thin margins due to low commodity prices and increased input costs, the chaos and uncertainty of these tariffs threatens their livelihoods. In addition to making it harder for farmers to sell their products, these tariffs will make it harder for Americans to put food on the table.

    Half of all U.S. agricultural exports go to Canada, Mexico, and China. As tariffs on these countries take effect, we know that their impacts are not temporary–tariffs can permanently shift market share to other countries, costing our farmers, ranchers, and other exporters for generations. 

    Damage to our trade relationships with Mexico and Canada has drastic consequences for American agriculture. With more than 40 percent of U.S. corn exports going to Mexico and more than 40 percent of U.S. ethanol exports going to Canada, corn growers in particular will experience significant market disruption with some of our nation’s most critical allies. 

    On top of shutting farmers out of critical export markets, these tariffs will drive up input costs. Tariffs on imports like potash will continue to increase fertilizer costs for farmers by as much as $1.70 an acre for corn and $1.42 an acre for soybeans.

    Our nation’s farmers and ranchers feed America and the world. In recent years, agricultural exports have been a bright spot in our economy, growing over 150 percent in the last twenty-eight years.  Nearly 20 percent of all U.S. agricultural production is exported to customers around the world, supporting more than one million jobs across the country. For America’s pork producers, exports create more than $66 in value for each hog marketed. And soybeans, which are the top export crop in the U.S., could face significant losses in sales and market share.

    American farmers have spent decades building these export markets – and they have made clear that they need trade, not aid. Paying off farmers for the damage caused by this impending trade war cannot and should not be a replacement for meaningful and steady trade policy.

    Farm families should not be left as collateral damage in an unnecessary trade war. We strongly encourage you to reconsider the current tariffs plan and instead consider a more targeted approach that supports American farmers, ranchers, and businesses.

    Sincerely,

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Challenges Deputy Treasury Nom on Trump’s Tariff Chaos: “People Can’t Even Follow What His Game Plan Is.”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    03.06.25
    Cantwell Challenges Deputy Treasury Nom on Trump’s Tariff Chaos: “People Can’t Even Follow What His Game Plan Is.”
    In Senate Finance Committee, Cantwell highlights whiplash for manufacturers, growers, & consumers due to an administration that changes its tariff policies on a near-daily basis; In WA state, 2 out of every 5 jobs are tied to trade-related industries
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), senior member of the Senate Finance Committee and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, pressed Michael Faulkender – President Donald Trump’s pick to serve as Deputy Treasury Secretary – on the whiplash caused by the administration’s ever-changing tariff policies.
    On Jan. 31 — citing punishment for failing to crack down on fentanyl trafficking — the Trump administration announced plans to impose a 25% tax on many goods imported into the U.S. from Canada and Mexico and a 10% tax on goods imported from China, then abruptly postponed those tariffs. Last month, he doubled down, announcing an additional 25% tax on all steel and aluminum imports.
    At 12:01 a.m. ET Tuesday, President Trump’s long-promised 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada and 10% tariff increase on goods from China took effect, causing stock prices in the United States to plummet. Then, yesterday, he announced that automobiles from Canada and Mexico would be exempt from his tariffs for one month. Just this morning, he announced that he would suspend the tariffs for some products from Mexico. Then, this afternoon, he announced he was suspending most new tariffs on products from both Mexico and Canada until April 2.
    “I feel like we’re almost just having chaos about what are we doing. One day it’s about fentanyl, one day it’s about emergency services, one day we’ll give these exemptions, one day we’ll go back to this — and so I’m trying to get your views,” Sen. Cantwell said. “Apples, potatoes, and wheat are the largest agriculture exports in our state. They represent over $3 billion worth of agriculture products around the world. And so I’m trying to understand if you understand the uncertainty that’s being created right now with these tariffs. If you get that it’s hard for businesses to even follow what is the predictability and certainty about what the President is even doing or proposing, because it’s changing every day.”
    Faulkender responded: “I think when you look at the President’s approach on Canada and Mexico, it was very much to get them to focus on the fentanyl crisis, on the fact that 100,000 Americans are dying of fentanyl.”
    Sen. Cantwell: “Do you really think that Canada was our fentanyl problem?”
    Faulkender: “I have not had access to the data on that. My understanding is that some of it does come in from Canada. I grant you that more of it comes from Mexico than Canada.”
    Sen. Cantwell: “A lot more.”
    She continued: “Does [Trump] understand the level of chaos that is happening now? Because people can’t even follow what his game plan is […] But I really, really hope that he understands how much damage is being done every day to the agricultural sector. And it’s not that people, rich people, won’t buy farmland — they will buy farmland. It’s just that we’ll have a lot less farmers.”
    In Washington state, two out of every five jobs are tied to trade and trade-related industries. More information on how President Trump’s tariffs on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China will affect consumers and businesses in the State of Washington can be found HERE. Nationwide:
    A 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico would add an estimated $144 billion a year to the cost of manufacturing in the United States.
    Tariffs on Canada and Mexico could increase U.S. car prices by as much as $12,000.
    According to the Yale Budget Lab, Trump’s proposed tariffs would result in the highest U.S. effective tariff rate in more than 80 years, and depending on the level of retaliation by other trading partners, will result in increased costs of between $1,600 and $2,000 per household. According to their analysis, food, clothing, cars, and electronics will all see above-average price increases.
    Sen. Cantwell has remained a steadfast supporter of increased trade to grow the economy and keep prices in check in the State of Washington and nationwide.
    Sen. Cantwell was the leading voice in negotiations to end India’s 20% retaliatory tariff on American apples, which was imposed in response to tariffs on steel and aluminum and devastated Washington state’s apple exports. India had once been the second-largest export market for American apples, but after President Trump imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum in his first term, India imposed retaliatory tariffs in response and U.S. apple exports plummeted. 
    The impact on Washington apple growers was severe: Apple exports from the state dropped from $120 million in 2017 to less than $1 million by 2023.  In September 2023, following several years of Sen. Cantwell’s advocacy, India ended its retaliatory tariffs on apples and pulse crops which was welcome news to the state’s more than 1,400 apple growers and the 68,000-plus workers they support.
    Video of Sen. Cantwell’s Q&A in the Senate Finance Committee today is HERE; audio is HERE; and a transcript is HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Thune Reintroduce Legislation to Improve Livestock Disaster Assistance

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and John Thune (R-S.D.), members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition & Forestry, reintroduced the Livestock Disaster Assistance Improvement Act, bipartisan legislation that would enhance the effectiveness and timeliness of multiple U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs that assist agricultural producers in the aftermath of adverse weather events. The bill would also provide USDA with direction to help improve the accuracy of the U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM), which triggers certain disaster programs.
    “Drought, wildfires, and extreme weather are making it harder for New Mexico’s farmers and ranchers to care for livestock, grow crops, and support our communities,” said Luján. “As a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I’m proud to reintroduce this bipartisan legislation to help farmers and ranchers get the support they need when disaster strikes. USDA programs must respond faster and more effectively to provide the relief New Mexicans deserve. This legislation will help our agricultural producers weather the impacts of extreme weather and disasters and keep contributing to our economy and food security.”
    “South Dakota farmers and ranchers are all too familiar with working through extreme weather conditions, especially drought,” said Thune. “These common-sense updates to disaster programs would help provide greater and expedited assistance to producers when they need it the most. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan legislation that would make the Drought Monitor a more effective tool and help ensure USDA programs are using accurate and consistent data in administering programs that are designed to help the agriculture community.”
    The legislation would make the following reforms:
    Emergency Conservation Program (ECP) and Emergency Forest Restoration Program (EFRP):
    Clarify that state and federal grazing permit holders are eligible for these programs
    Streamline the ECP and EFRP permitting process to allow:
    The Farm Service Agency (FSA) to waive the 30-day public comment period for Bureau of Land Management (BLM) National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) applications during a drought emergency
    BLM to accept archeological reviews completed by Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) field staff during a drought emergency
    BLM to accept NEPA and endangered species reviews completed by NRCS field staff

    Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP):
    Require ELAP honey bee assistance to factor in rates, including per-hive, per-colony, and per-standardized expected mortality, and require consistent documentation requirements
    Expand honey producer coverage for losses and costs, including transportation related to adverse weather and drought
    Livestock Forage Program (LFP):
    Modify LFP to allow a one-month payment when a county reaches D2 (severe drought) for four consecutive weeks, compared to eight weeks under current law
    USDM:
    Convene an interagency working group consisting of representatives from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of the Interior, and the state mesonet programs to develop recommendations to improve USDM data access, accuracy, and reliability
    Require the U.S. Forest Service and the FSA to sign a memorandum of understanding related to coordinating drought-related designation and response activities
    Full bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven, Rounds Reintroduce Legislation to Ban Foreign Adversaries from Buying American Farmland and Agricultural Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    03.07.25
    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven this week joined Senator Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) in reintroducing the Promoting Agriculture Safeguards and Security (PASS) Act, legislation to ban individuals and entities controlled by China, Russia, Iran and North Korea from purchasing agricultural land and businesses located near U.S. military installations or sensitive sites.
    “Foreign adversaries are buying up U.S. farmland which is a threat not only to our food security, but our national security. Our legislation will prevent these bad actors from purchasing farmland and agricultural businesses near our strategic assets to better protect our nation from those with malign intentions,” said Hoeven.
    The PASS Act is also cosponsored by Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) and Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.).
    In February 2025, President Trump issued a National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM) to promote foreign investment while protecting America’s national security interests. In the NSPM, the President specifically mentioned adopting new rules to stop China from “buying up America.”
    Specifically, the PASS Act would:
    Ban purchases of agricultural land by individuals/entities controlled by North Korea, China, Russia and Iran near military installations and sensitive sites.
    Make the Secretary of Agriculture a voting member of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) for all covered transactions involving the purchase of agricultural land, biotechnology, and any other transaction related to the agriculture industry in the United States.
    Give the U.S. Department of Agriculture the ability to refer cases to CFIUS for review if there is reason to believe an agriculture land transaction may raise a national security concern.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Levy Artisan Market set for spring opening

    Source: City of Manchester

    A new monthly artisan day and night market to open in Levenshulme from April 2025.

    Manchester City Council and Independent Street, known for its successful events around the Northwest, have collaborated to bring a new market offering on the former, much loved Levy Market site.

    The new market which will be known as Levy Artisan Market will bring freshly baked produce, independent food stalls, and unique artisan products to the already vibrant area of Levenshulme.

    Levy Artisan Market will launch on Sunday 13th April and will take place the second Sunday of every month. There will also be an exciting night market on the last Friday of every month from 25th April 25.

    Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “Levy Market has been a long standing and much-loved institution for the local community and it’s traders, imbued a rich heritage and an asset which has set foundations for other markets to thrive.

    “We are really proud to welcome Independent Street’s Artisan Levy Market onto the site, the end product of a collaborative approach to bring a new market offering to the people of Levenshulme.

    “The new market will provide a unique space for small businesses, artisans, and food vendors, allowing them to thrive whilst also contributing to the local economy and offering residents and visitors access to high-quality products, delicious street food, and a welcoming social environment.

    “We hope it will become more than just a market – but rather a hub for creativity, enterprise, and community spirit.”                 

    The monthly Sunday Artisan Markets at Levy will offer family-focused events, from live entertainment and children’s workshops to food tastings and cultural celebrations, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

    The monthly Friday Night Markets will offer a newly designed food court area with a large selection of some of the best street food in town, plus live music, good vibes and a large seating area for people to kick back, relax and welcome in the weekend.

    Lisa Cowley, Director of Independent Street, says: ‘’We are thrilled to have been selected to launch this iconic market back onto the Manchester Market scene.

    “We’re incredibly excited to welcome back Levy’s loyal customers and introduce The New Levy Artisan Market to a new generation of visitors. With a focus on community, sustainability, and high-quality, local produce, we hope to make Levy Artisan Market the heart of Manchester for years to come.”

    The Levy Artisan Market is set to showcase Manchester’s rich tapestry of Artisans and creators and also serve as a catalyst for driving footfall into Levenshulme’s established shops, cafes, restaurants and independents. It will once again continue to emphasise supporting small businesses and providing a space for entrepreneurs to thrive.

    Local councillors have collaborated with council officers to revive a market in Levenshulme, which has been deeply missed by both residents and visitors. Beyond its economic impact, the market fosters a strong sense of belonging, encouraging people to shop locally, connect with their neighbours, and celebrate the diversity of Levenshulme.

    To celebrate the launch, Levy Artisan Market will be hosting a grand opening event on Sunday April 13th, featuring live music performances, incredible artisans, a street food area plus a free crafting table and activities for its smallest  visitors. The event will run from 11am and everyone is invited to join in.

    If you are interested in showcasing at the new Levy Artisan Market contact lisa@independentstreet.co.uk.

    Organisers are also on the hunt for local community groups and musicians to join in. Applications to trade can be made through the website independentstreet.co.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Deaths of unhoused British Columbians rose sharply in 2023

    At least 458 people experiencing homelessness died in British Columbia in 2023, according to data from the BC Coroners Service.

    This reflects an increase of 23% from 2022 (373) and is nearly three times the number of people who died while experiencing homelessness in the province in 2020 (155).

    “The data speaks to the tragic reality of the struggles many face in our communities throughout B.C.,” said Dr. Jatinder Baidwan, chief coroner. “During the period studied, between 2016 and 2023, the deaths of 1,940 people were reported to the BC Coroners Service, identified as experiencing homelessness.”

    For the purpose of the report, an individual experiencing homelessness was defined as:

    • unsheltered: a person living outdoors, in a make-shift shelter, a parked vehicle, a vacant home or any other structure not intended for habitation;
    • sheltered: a person staying at an emergency shelter (overnight) or who is temporarily sheltered (suspected to be for less than 30 days) by friends or family, in a short-term shelter, safe house for youth, or transition house for women and children fleeing violence; and
    • persons residing in short-term shelters, safe houses, or transition houses for an unknown length of time.

    More than half of deaths reported in 2023 were people between the ages of 30 through 49, and 79% of decedents were males. The data also shows that nearly half of those deaths were males who were unsheltered (47%).

    In 2023, 91% of deaths of people experiencing homelessness were classified as accidental (419), and 86% were due to accidental unregulated drug toxicity (394).

    Additional notable findings from the report include:

    • about 46% of individuals met the criteria for unsheltered homelessness, versus 35% for sheltered homelessness;
    • in 2023, 41% of female decedents were sheltered, compared to 34% of males;
    • the highest proportion of deaths of people experiencing homelessness occurred in winter (28%), followed by spring (27%) in 2023;
    • 26% of deaths of people experiencing homelessness in 2023 occurred in the Fraser Health Authority (117), followed closely by 25% within Island Health (114); and
    • in 2023, the health service delivery area of Vancouver had the highest number of deaths (77), followed by central Vancouver Island (55), which includes the Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo and Tofino, and then Fraser East (50), which includes Abbotsford and Hope.

    Note that mortality rates within the report should be interpreted with caution. The BC Coroners Service does not investigate all deaths of individuals experiencing homelessness and the number of deaths within the report excludes individuals experiencing homelessness that did not meet the legal criteria of the Coroners Act for reporting. Additionally, the data is preliminary and subject to change as coroners’ investigations conclude.

    Learn More:

    To read the report, Deaths of Individuals Experiencing Homelessness in British Columbia, 2016-2023, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/birth-adoption-death-marriage-and-divorce/deaths/coroners-service/statistical/250212_homeless_web_report_2016-2023.pdf

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Montana Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Summer Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif., The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Montana of the April 7, 2025, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning June 1, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Beaverhead, Broadwater, Deer Lodge, Flathead, Gallatin, Glacier, Granite, Jefferson, Lake, Lewis and Clark, Lincoln, Madison, Missoula, Pondera, Powell, Ravalli, Sanders, Silver Bow and Teton in Montana, as well as Clark, Fremont, Idaho and Lemhi counties in Idaho.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the drought and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than April 7.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Iowa Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by June Storm

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Iowa of the April 7, 2025, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the excessive rain, flash flooding, hail, high winds and lightning occurring June 1, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Lyon, O’Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pocahontas and Sioux in Iowa, as well as Jackson, Nobles and Rock counties in Minnesota, and Lincoln, Minnehaha and Union counties in South Dakota.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than April 7.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Oklahoma Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Summer Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Oklahoma of the April 7, 2025, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning June 11, 2024.

    This disaster declaration covers the counties of Beckham, Blaine, Caddo, Canadian, Comanche, Custer, Grady, Greer, Jackson, Kiowa, Tillman and Washita.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the drought and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than April 7.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Montana Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by July Storm

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Montana of the April 7, 2025, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the excessive rain, flash flooding, hail, high winds and lightning occurring on July 13, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Carter, Custer, Fallon and Powder River in Montana, Butte and Harding counties in South Dakota, and Crook County in Wyoming.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than April 7.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Levy Artisan Market in Levenshulme set for spring opening

    Source: City of Manchester

    A new monthly artisan day and night market is set to open in Levenshulme this spring.

    Manchester City Council and Independent Street known for its successful events around the Northwest have collaborated to bring a new market offering on the former, much loved Levy Market site from April 2025.

    The new market which will be known as Levy Artisan Market will bring freshly baked produce, independent food stalls, and unique artisan products to the already vibrant area of Levenshulme.

    Levy Artisan Market will launch on Sunday 13th April and will take place the second Sunday of every month. There will also be an exciting night market on the last Friday of every month from 25th April 25.            

    The monthly Sunday Artisan Markets at Levy will offer family-focused events, from live entertainment and children’s workshops to food tastings and cultural celebrations, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.  

    The monthly Friday Night Markets will offer a newly designed food court area with a large selection of some of the best street food in town, plus live music, good vibes and a large seating area for you to kick back, relax and welcome in the weekend.  

    The Levy Artisan Market is set to showcase Manchester’s rich tapestry of Artisans and creators and serve as a catalyst for driving footfall into Levenshulme’s established shops, cafes, restaurants and independents. It will once again continue to emphasise supporting small businesses and providing a space for entrepreneurs to thrive.  

    Levenshulme Market is not just a place to shop it is the heart of our community. 

    To celebrate the launch, Levy Artisan Market will be hosting a grand opening event on Sunday April 13th, featuring live music performances, incredible artisans, a street food area plus a free crafting table and activities for the smallest of our visitors. The event will run from 11am and everyone is invited to join in. 

    Traders who are interested in showcasing at the new Levy Artisan Market, and local community groups and musicians who want to join, can make applications on Independentstreet.co.uk 

    Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said: ”Levy Market has been a long standing and much-loved institution for the local community and it’s traders, imbued a rich heritage and an asset which has set foundations for other markets to thrive. 

    “We are really proud to welcome Independent Street’s Artisan Levy Market onto the site, the end product of a collaborative approach to bring a new market offering to the people of Levenshulme. 

    “The new market will provide a unique space for small businesses, artisans, and food vendors, allowing them to thrive whilst also contributing to the local economy and offering residents and visitors access to high-quality products, delicious street food, and a welcoming social environment. 

    “We hope it will become more than just a market - but rather a hub for creativity, enterprise, and community spirit.”        

    Lisa Cowley, Director of Independent Street, said: “We are thrilled to have been selected to launch this iconic market back onto the Manchester Market scene. We’re incredibly excited to welcome back Levy’s loyal customers and introduce The New Levy Artisan Market to a new generation of visitors. With a focus on community, sustainability, and high-quality, local produce, we hope to make Levy Artisan Market the heart of Manchester for years to come.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Rural Roads to Have More Than $34.4 Million of Improvements

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on March 7, 2025

    Today, the Government of Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) announced more than $34.4 million for 32 road, bridge and culvert projects, which supports the export of goods and resources originating in rural municipalities.

    Through the Rural Integrated Roads for Growth (RIRG) program, the Ministry of Highways will invest more than $12.6 million toward the projects and rural municipalities (RMs) will fund the remaining more than $21.7 million. The work will occur in the 2025 construction season.

    “These projects will enhance the integration of rural roads and the provincial highway network so that farmers, ranchers, businesses and industries can ship their goods more efficiently,” Highways Minister David Marit said. “This program recognizes rural municipal roads play a valuable role in Saskatchewan’s export-based economy.”

    “Perhaps now more than ever, improving our transportation infrastructure in rural areas is needed to bring stability and strength to our economy — not only as a province, but also as a nation,” Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities President Bill Huber said. “Without reliable roads, bridges, and culverts, we can’t get goods to market. For this reason, SARM is very pleased to see these RMs receive funding assistance through the RIRG program.” 

    The provincially funded RIRG program administered by SARM invests in constructing and upgrading RM road infrastructure. RIRG funding is up to 50 per cent per project to a maximum of $500,000 for a road and to a maximum $1 million for a large culvert or bridge. RMs fund the remaining project costs and are responsible for managing their approved projects.

    A Program Management Board of SARM and the Ministry of Highways representatives oversees RIRG.

    A list of the most recently approved projects and funding contributions are in the attached backgrounder.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Transforming Blenheim Estate’s low-grade farmland into woodlands for nature and communities

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Transforming Blenheim Estate’s low-grade farmland into woodlands for nature and communities

    Blenheim Estate planted 270,000 trees to improve biodiversity, water quality and public access, as well as generate income through timber production.

    Main facts

    • site: Blenheim Estate, Oxfordshire
    • size: 104 hectares with a further 47 hectares planned
    • type: multi-purpose lowland woodland with mixed broadleaf, some non-native species and conifer
    • species: 27 species including oak, hornbeam, lime, sycamore, wild cherry with a woody understorey. Experimental species are also included to assess climate change resilience. A small percentage of conifer will provide a productive timber crop and winter habitats for wildlife
    • grants: blended finance from Forestry Commission England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO) and private investment from Morgan Sindall
    • date: EWCO application approved in October 2021, planting began in November 2021

    Main objective

    Convert low-grade, unprofitable agricultural land into new woodlands to deliver multiple benefits including carbon sequestration, improved biodiversity, water quality and public amenity access, starting with a 30-year woodland management cycle.

    Roy Cox, Estate Director said:

    The health of the area around an estate directly affects the wellbeing of the estate itself. By investing in new woodlands, we are making Blenheim a better place for the community to thrive.

    Investing in trees for all to enjoy

    The Blenheim Estate is set in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside, covering 12,000 acres. Home to Blenheim Palace, it is a world heritage site and features several Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Its farming heritage spans hundreds of years, but with the phasing out of the Basic Payment Scheme the owners began seeking new opportunities. Aware of the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, they seized the opportunity to invest in trees and woodlands and capitalise on the myriad of economic, social and environmental benefits trees offer.

    The Dorn and Glyme Valley Woodland Creation Scheme is creating 7 new woodlands. At the time of planting it was one of the largest woodland creation projects in the South East to date, transforming unproductive, low-grade agricultural land into a sustainable and commercially viable asset.

    The owners are planting over 270,000 new trees to sequester 20,000 tonnes of carbon over 25 years, which will boost biodiversity and generate wider community benefits – including a forest school and 15km of new woodland trails to enjoy and explore. The project will help the estate achieve their net zero aims and continue to prosper.

    Diversity and management delivering wider benefits

    Species diversity and active management help to secure the long-term health, resilience, and profitability of Blenheim’s new woodland. Planting has incorporated an innovative mix of 27 carefully selected species, from native broadleaves like hornbeam, lime, oak, sycamore, wild cherry, Norway maple, alder and beech, to experimental species such as paulownia, tulip tree and robinia. Several conifer blocks will deliver a productive timber crop and winter habitats for wildlife.

    This diverse mix will help reduce risk from pests and diseases and improve resilience to the effects of climate change. The controlled planting of novel species will provide valuable insight for studies on climate change resilience carried out by the University of Oxford.

    The design also includes an understorey of woody shrub species to create a diverse and self-sustaining ecosystem. Planting areas will be seeded with wild grass and a flower mix.

    The scheme incorporates long-term management plans, beginning with a 30-year management cycle with the Forest Canopy Foundation. Effective woodland management is vital for carbon sequestration, biodiversity gains and to achieve a profitable timber crop year-on-year. Well managed woodlands will not only ensure the estate can sequester carbon now, but far into the future through carbon being locked into timber products.

    The trees have been planted using biodegradable tree guards made of corn starch, supporting the estate’s aim to be plastic-free as far as possible. This approach provides valuable insight for ongoing research into plastic-free alternatives. In parallel, rabbit and deer fencing will protect young trees against browsing mammals.

    Great oaks from little acorns grow

    Many of the oak trees have been grown from acorns collected from Blenheim Park – providing a natural connection to the park and its heritage up and down the valley. A total of 11,402 acorns have been handpicked. Each one is labelled with the tree it came from. They will be planted along paths at entry points and key locations as special feature trees.

    Unlocking blended finance – through EWCO and private investment

    The Dorn and Glyme Valley scheme is multi-faceted and brings many natural capital benefits. It’s been made possible through a blended finance model – a combination of EWCO and private investment from Morgan Sindall, who are purchasing the carbon sequestered by the trees to help offset CO2 emissions.

    The scheme secured over £350,000 in additional contributions through EWCO for its benefits to:

    • nature recovery: by planting new native woodland in locations that will connect and expand existing woodland
    • water quality: by carefully positioning woodland to help filter soil particles
    • society: creating woodland close to people and granting permissive access via a 15km network of new paths

    It also trailblazes use of the Grown in Britain metric, based on the UK Forestry Standard, to quantify the provision of ecosystem services on each site. Using the metric helped to secure the private investment from Morgan Sindall.

    Liz Nicholson, Forestry Agent said:

    Courage, creative thinking and hard work are required to create a space and framework to realise the best markets which, in turn, will empower farming and forestry to develop into unsubsidised commercial sectors.

    Wildlife, water and wellbeing

    Woodlands provide huge benefits for people, nature, climate and the economy. The Dorn and Glyme Valley Woodland Creation Scheme at Blenheim is no exception:

    • the biodiversity of the area will improve significantly, most of the woodland blocks are close to, or adjoin existing native woodland and will help expand and connect natural habitats
    • an objective is to reduce siltation of Blenheim Lake, with the woodlands carefully positioned to improve water quality by helping to filter soil particles, reducing the frequency and costs of dredging the lake
    • the trees also provide natural flood management benefits, as well as further upstream in the Dorn valley – the Environment Agency are working with Blenheim Estate, Thames Water, and Evenlode Catchment Partnership to develop ‘Stage Zero’, a small slowing the flow project, which will recreate the impact of beavers on a catchment
    • the pandemic demonstrated the value that trees, woodlands and open spaces have on our physical and mental health, the scheme will improve access to nature for the community by creating a 15km circular trail with benches and glades, connecting communities across the estate, and will host a new forest school

    The scheme is designed as a 100-year project, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

    Top tips

    1. The Woodland Creation Planning Grant supports landowners in exploring the opportunities and constraints of a site. It helps facilitate a smooth transition of the final design to EWCO.
    2. Planting a diverse mix of species is important for overall woodland resilience and protection against pests and diseases.
    3. Active management, including ongoing deer and squirrel control, is vital to long-term success.
    4. Public access is not just a ‘nice thing to do’, there are sound economic and business models behind it.
    5. Trees and woodlands provide a profitable investment.

    Further information

    See the brochure version of this case study: Blenheim Estate brochure (PDF, 1.08 MB, 4 pages).

    For guidance on woodland creation and information on grants and available support, visit: Tree planting and woodland creation: overview.

    Find out how other farmers and landowners are benefitting from woodland creation, visit: Tree planting and woodland creation case studies.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Creating a resilient woodland at Lowther Estate to boost diversity and timber supply

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    Creating a resilient woodland at Lowther Estate to boost diversity and timber supply

    Read about the 150 hectare woodland creation project on the Lowther Estate, which will increase access to woodlands for local communities and support wildlife.

    The Lowther Estate in Cumbria worked with partners including the Forestry Commission, Natural England and the Eden Rivers Trust to bring to fruition a new large scale productive woodland in the North West of England.

    In 2017 Lowther Estate gained approval for 170 hectares of new productive woodland, ‘Jacks Wood’, named after the estate’s recently retired forester, Ian Jack, who led the development of the project.

    The new woodland is largely within the Lake District National Park and has seen the planting of 121 ha of productive conifer, with the remainder made up of predominantly productive broadleaves. In total, 213,098 trees have been planted, making this one of the largest areas of productive conifer to be planted in England since the 1980’s.

    Lowther Estates used the Woodland Creation Planning Grant to help cover the planning and design costs for the new woodland. The estate also received approval for funding under the Countryside Stewardship scheme for the planting and maintenance of the woodland.

    David Bliss, Estate Manager for Lowther Estate said:

    Our success is entirely down to the work of Ian Jack. The Woodland Creation Planning Grant funding helped him plan and gain approval for this magnificent commercial woodland, which will support many local jobs and associated forestry businesses.

    Their woodland vision

    The new woodland blends existing blocks of monoculture conifers with new woodland made up of broadleaves, helping to restore the look of the landscape. This will create an extensive natural corridor linking the south of the estate with important pasture woodlands and a community woodland, which adjoins 2 local villages.

    The new section of wooded corridor will also be of huge benefit to the local wildlife, including the resident red squirrel population.

    Ian Jack, Head Forester, Lowther Estate (retired) said:

    Creating a woodland means so much more to me than just putting trees in the ground; we’re creating a beautiful place for the future, for the people and the wildlife. I won’t see this woodland fully mature, but that doesn’t matter to me, it’s taking the first step that matters.

    Working with the community

    The estate management team worked closely with a range of stakeholders from the outset, so that feedback from local groups was taken into consideration as early as possible during the planning process.

    The team worked particularly closely with the Eden Rivers Trust to ensure that the woodland will also provide multiple water benefits to downstream communities; improving water quality and ecology by decreasing the amount of run-off from the surrounding land and providing some mitigation against flood risk. The woodland will also benefit the wider public by extending current public access provisions, and will provide the setting for a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

    Woodland creation benefits

    In addition to the wider benefits, a primary objective for the estate is to be able to manage the woodlands to generate a future income from timber sales, which will in turn support local forestry businesses.

    There are several strategic timber mills in Cumbria, which the estate currently supplies and it is expected that the trees planted now will mature and be ready for felling at the time when it is predicted that timber shortages will occur – providing much needed long term security. The provision of future stock to supply these mills will build confidence and help these businesses to continue to grow and invest over the coming years.

    Ian Jack, Head Forester, Lowther Estate (retired) said:

    There appears to be a renaissance of planting well designed, functional woodlands in the north of England and Scotland. It’s good to be part of that ground swell and to be able to plant all the right trees, in the right places, for the right reasons. I’m glad to be able to pass on a tangible legacy to the people of Cumbria.

    Further information

    See the brochure version of this case study: Lowther Estate brochure (PDF, 1.13 MB, 3 pages).

    For guidance on woodland creation and information on grants and available support, visit: Tree planting and woodland creation: overview.

    Find out how other farmers and landowners are benefitting from woodland creation, visit: Tree planting and woodland creation case studies.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why a US minerals deal with Ukraine won’t deter Russian aggression

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Patrick E. Shea, Senior Lecturer in International Relations and Global Governance, University of Glasgow

    The US vice-president, J.D. Vance, recently told Fox News that “the very best security guarantee” to prevent Russia from invading Ukraine again was “to give Americans economic upside in the future of Ukraine”.

    The implication is that the much-debated minerals deal, in which an investment fund managed by Kyiv and Washington would receive revenue from Ukraine’s natural resources, would create American economic interests in Ukraine. American security interests, it is suggested, could soon follow.

    Vance’s comments came with the deal hanging in the balance. A meeting at the White House on February 28, where the deal was expected to be signed, turned into a shouting match between Vance, the US president, Donald Trump, and his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky.

    Zelensky has since attempted to patch up relations with the Trump administration, announcing that he is ready to sign the deal at “any time and in any convenient format”. And Vance, when asked whether an agreement was still on the table, said Trump “is still committed” to reaching a deal.

    Having access to Ukrainian minerals is an important opportunity for America’s missile system electronics and electric vehicle industries. Ukraine is, for example, home to around one-third of all European lithium deposits, the key component in batteries.

    This access is particularly important now that China, which currently accounts for a high proportion of certain US mineral imports, has imposed a ban on exporting rare minerals to the US in retaliation for Trump’s tariff policies.

    But, while Ukraine’s minerals are tempting to the US and other world powers, a deal with Trump won’t help Ukraine’s security situation.

    Trump’s approach has two main flaws. First, research shows that investment typically follows security commitments, not the other way around. Investors seek markets that are stable and protected, rather than hoping their investments create those conditions.

    Previous US presidents have touted similar strategies without success. President William Howard Taft (1857-1930) championed “dollar diplomacy” in the early 20th century, promising that American investments would create stability across Latin America by “substituting dollars for bullets”.

    The reality proved quite different. Throughout this period, the US frequently used military force to protect oil interests in Latin America. But, because these interventions focused on extraction sites rather than defending entire countries, instability continued elsewhere in the region.

    Trump’s “America first” mantra suggests a similar pattern of defending American assets, and not necessarily the countries in which the assets reside.

    Second, the overall US commitment to protect American assets abroad is uncertain. The US has, since the end of the cold war, been selective about when and how it uses military force to protect overseas assets.

    Since 1991, the US military has intervened to protect American property in only four documented instances: Haiti in 2004, Lebanon in 2006, Egypt in 2011 and Yemen in 2012. These cases involved embassies and other smaller properties during periods of civil unrest, rather than defending economic interests.

    Recent presidents, including Trump, have been reluctant to use force to protect threatened American investments. US agribusiness giant Cargill, for example, had to close its operations in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region following Russia’s invasion in 2014.

    Building state capacity

    That said, economic relations with America can indeed bolster a partner state’s security. But my own research shows that this is largely through indirect channels, rather than the threat of military intervention.

    For example, US government departments, such as the US patent and trademark office, provide comprehensive training to partner states. Programmes involve training judges, police officers, prosecutors and policymakers to enforce intellectual property protections, administer land registries, combat counterfeiting and develop legal frameworks that protect investments.

    This capacity building not only helps American investors in these countries, but also improves the partner state’s overall capacity. More effective and capable bureaucracies are better able to manage and finance their military capabilities.

    Following Russia’s 2014 invasion of Ukraine, the US launched the agriculture and rural development support program. The initiative aimed to develop Ukraine’s institutional capacity for managing property rights and attracting diverse investments.

    The US Treasury brought in loan advisory firm First Financial Network to help Ukraine navigate its financial crisis after the invasion, while simultaneously building frameworks for foreign investment.

    By 2020, this partnership facilitated US investment firm Allrise Capital’s purchase of Odessa’s Chornomorets football stadium. This deal was described by John Morris, the president of First Financial Network, as demonstrating Ukraine’s ability “to sell assets to the international community”.

    These efforts did not deter Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. But they helped the Ukrainian government implement several administrative reforms in the years leading up to the invasion, including more efficient tax collection and professionalisation of civil servants. The government was better prepared for war than it would otherwise have been.

    The Ukrainian and Russian armies have been locked in battle for over three years.
    Kutsenko Volodymyr / Shutterstock

    If the US wants to enhance Ukraine’s security through economic means, the Trump administration would need to make two drastic changes.

    First, it would need to reinstate programmes that promote American investment abroad. After assuming office, Trump froze and began dismantling the United States Agency for International Development (USAid). The agency’s capacity-building efforts have security consequences.

    Second, for the US to have both an economic and security impact, Trump needs to reassure America’s allies. Assurances are not Trump’s speciality. On February 26, for example, Trump declined to say whether the US would defend Taiwan if it was attacked by China.

    Research suggests that investments follow alliances. But markets do not care about agreements alone. They respond to other signals too, like explicit statements of support. These statements of support also help to reassure allies and deter rivals.

    Unless Trump changes how he operates on the international stage, the economics of the mineral deal will not help Ukraine’s security situation.

    Patrick E. Shea does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Why a US minerals deal with Ukraine won’t deter Russian aggression – https://theconversation.com/why-a-us-minerals-deal-with-ukraine-wont-deter-russian-aggression-251436

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: How Heathpatch Farm expanded woodland to support wildlife and their business

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

    Case study

    How Heathpatch Farm expanded woodland to support wildlife and their business

    Find out how the farm expanded expanded woodland to create a species-rich habitat, reduce farm pollution and benefit the farm business.

    Key facts

    • site: Heathpatch, Ipswich, Suffolk
    • size: 260 hectares of woodland, expanded by 8.5 hectares in 2022 to 2023, with a further 3 hectares planned for 2024
    • type and species mix: predominantly native broadleaf trees and shrubs, a mix of 25 species selected to increase resilience with future climate in mind, including: oak, wild cherry, small-leaved lime, hornbeam, hazel, alder, silver birch and Scots pine, plus a mix of non-native conifer (Corsican pine and western red cedar)
    • date planted: winter 2022-23
    • grant: England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO)

    Main objective: to connect with existing woodland on site, creating a diverse habitat and wildlife corridors.

    Introduction

    Heathpatch is a 1,700 hectare farm 10 miles west of Ipswich. The farm includes 260 hectares of woodland, with a range of ages and species. Owned by the Buckle family, the farm is a traditional mix with a variety of crops, sheep and cattle, plus some equestrian land.

    Over the years, the farm has diversified and Heathpatch currently owns and runs a number of businesses, these include: manufacturing electro mechanical and electronic enclosures, renewable energy through anaerobic digestion, machinery sales including a wide range of forestry industry equipment, a brewery and a hospitality business consisting of a hotel, 2 pubs, and Nedging Hall Estate – a 10-bedroom country house and garden surrounded by the farm which is available for short lets.

    The farm itself has 145 hectares of woodland within 70 blocks, ranging from 0.5 to 11 hectares. The majority of these have been planted by the current owners. Two additional blocks of ancient woodland sit 5 miles away, Bonny Wood to the north and Raydon Wood to the south.

    Bonny Wood is a 15 hectare site, which is part of a larger woodland. Raydon Wood spans 99 hectares and has a disused railway line running through it. The wood was used by the US Airforce as an ammunition depot during the second world war to service the air defence and bombing campaign launched from East Anglia. At present, 2 full-time foresters work at Raydon Wood to convert a Plantations on Ancient Woodland Site to a working mixed woodland.

    The Buckle family is committed to woodland creation and management. They have added a remarkable 25 hectares of new woodland between 2020 and 2023, equating to a total of 45,000 young trees. This was with the support of Countryside Stewardship until 2021 and later with EWCO. The plan is to continue to expand woodland cover where it is most appropriate and to bring more of the existing woodland inventory into management.

    Creating a landscape that benefits wildlife

    Prior to the 1970s much of the tree and hedge cover in the area had been removed. Since the Buckles arrived in 1973, they have worked consistently to plant and restore the wooded landscape. Biodiversity and nature recovery have been their key drivers and several locations on the farm offer an impressive 360-degree view of woodland and hedges, all of which have been planted by the family.

    The planting over the years has always been majority native broadleaf trees together with a few conifers, in a largely agricultural landscape, and often with generous rides incorporated into the design to help increase suitable and diverse habitats for birds, mammals, and invertebrates.

    Planting alongside existing blocks of woodland or hedgerow has helped to connect habitats and provide wildlife corridors, supporting nature recovery and helping species to adapt to the changing climate. To complement the benefits of woodland creation and accelerate nature recovery, Heathpatch has created feeding plots for turtle doves and installed swift boxes on the farm; the boxes are complete with systems that play the calls swifts use when in their nest to help non-breeding swifts identify potential nest sites.

    The aquatic habitat and water quality of the River Brett which runs through the farm has been improved. Working closely with neighbouring landowners, this has been achieved with funding and operational support from the Environment Agency, Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Stour Valley Project and Heathpatch.

    To date, over 60 features have been placed in the river and its tributaries to modify the water flow; these include gravel glides, berms (low level shelves constructed to restore the natural flow of the river), flow deflectors and flood plain connections. To complement these measures, 5 to 20 metre-wide stretches of the riverbank have been fenced off from livestock, with more planned in the future. Some riparian strips have been planted with suitable tree species, while other areas have been left to allow vegetation to colonise naturally.

    A leading pond ecologist has surveyed the farm ponds periodically since 2006: there are over 50 ponds in existence, plus several ‘ghost ponds’ – ponds that have disappeared over the years having either silted up or been deliberately filled in due to changes in agricultural practices. The surveys have informed a programme of works, which involves the removal of shade-casting vegetation where appropriate, dredging and restoration. When dredging, particularly in the ghost ponds, the hope is to find rare vegetation seeds, which have survived under layers of leaves and mud. Restoring existing ponds encourages greater biodiversity to return, which typically happens more quickly compared to creating entirely new ponds. That said, 7 completely new ponds have been created in the last 4 years, all within or adjacent to the 25 hectares of newly planted woodland.

    Significant numbers of invertebrates are already present at the sites, and in one location robins were spotted using a brash pile nearby one of the new ponds for nesting only 6 weeks after the pile was made.

    James Buckle, Owner, Heathpatch said:

    It is a delight to walk around the farm, within the woods and along the river and to see the improvements being built upon year on year… we were showing off the results to a group of interested parties last year and, right on cue, a kingfisher flew across! It is heartening to see the riot of nature responding to the changes made, even within such a short period of time.

    Reducing farm pollution and capturing carbon

    Most of the new woodland has replaced agricultural land, which was previously used for grazing, hay, or crops. This land use change will make the farm’s arable management less intensive and will reduce the use and application of herbicides and manufactured fertiliser across the catchment, reducing the farm’s overall pollution output.

    The new woodland is set to capture carbon and is registered with the Woodland Carbon Code. Heathpatch holds 2 contracts under the Woodland Carbon Guarantee (WCaG), providing the option to sell carbon credits to the government every 5 or 10 years up to 2055-56 for a guaranteed price that is index-linked for the life of the contract. The plan is to sell some of the carbon units, either to the government under WCaG or on the open market, and to use other units to offset the emissions from group activities.

    Woodland management for the benefit of the business

    The owners are conscious of the impact of agriculture on the environment and take pride in their farm – feeling responsible to create a balanced landscape that can enhance biodiversity and their business, while providing amenity. They have always recognised the importance of woodland in the landscape and understood the opportunities that come with active management – and although secondary to improving wildlife and biodiversity, the woodlands must meet commercial objectives.

    A range of edge species (typically shrubs or coppice species) have been planted around most of the woodland blocks forming a graduated edge to the internal species, some of which will be managed for long-term timber production.

    Traditional silvicultural management (the process of tending, harvesting, and regenerating) will produce firewood, coppice products and subsequently a timber yield. The timber will be milled and used internally or sold to local markets. Any firewood produced has a ready-made market in Heathpatch – destined for homes and hospitality venues nearby. An evolving local market for added-value coppice products is providing more opportunities to make this woodland work for the farm business and for the wider environment.

    Top tips

    1. Don’t plant woodland if you are not prepared to manage it.
    2. Consider natural regeneration if you have the patience.
    3. Rides can never be too wide and remember to leave ample space around ponds and other woodland features.
    4. Volunteers can be highly effective: we have discovered that many people in our community like to spend time helping in the woods and are keen to get stuck in; volunteer numbers are growing.

    Further information

    See the brochure version of this case study: Heathpatch Farm brochure (PDF, 8.42 MB, 4 pages).

    For guidance on woodland creation and information on grants and available support, visit: Tree planting and woodland creation: overview.

    Find out how other farmers and landowners are benefitting from woodland creation, visit: Tree planting and woodland creation case studies.

    Updates to this page

    Published 7 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Northfield Capital Champions Canadian Craftsmanship With Spirit of York Distillery Co., the Official Gin of Live Nation In Ontario

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, March 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Northfield Capital Corporation (TSX-V: NFD.A) (“Northfield” or the “Corporation”), a proudly Canadian-owned investment company, is reaffirming its commitment to Canadian industry and craftsmanship through its strategic leadership and ownership of Spirit of York Distillery Co. (or “Spirit of York”). Rooted in national pride, Spirit of York is setting the benchmark for premium Canadian spirits, sourcing 100% of its ingredients – including heritage grains and pristine water – from within Canada.

    As the Official Gin of Live Nation Canada, Inc. in Ontario (or “Live Nation”), Spirit of York is taking center stage at some of the province’s most iconic music venues and festivals. This three-year partnership, launched in 2024, brings Spirit of York Premium Gin to concertgoers at four major music festivals and eight Live Nation venues across Ontario, including Toronto’s legendary Budweiser Stage. The partnership is highlighted by The Garden, an immersive, botanical-inspired lounge at the foot of the venue’s Lakehouse. Designed to embody the 15 botanicals infused in Spirit of York’s handcrafted gin, The Garden provides an elegant and inviting space where fans can enjoy Canada’s finest spirits in a setting that celebrates nature and music.

    “At a time when supporting Canadian businesses has never been more important, we take immense pride in producing a world-class gin that is not only made in Canada but made of Canada,” said Michael Leskovec, CEO of Spirit of York. “Our partnership with Live Nation is a powerful way to bring our brand to the forefront of cultural experiences while championing Canadian agriculture, craftsmanship, and industry.”

    A Spirit Born from the Heart of Canadian Agriculture

    Spirit of York’s commitment to quality starts with its ingredients, all of which are sourced exclusively from Canadian farmers. Every bottle begins with rye grown in the fertile fields of Ontario by multi-generational family farms that have helped shape Canada’s agricultural legacy. The grains are carefully selected to ensure the highest quality, maintaining the purity and richness of the land they come from. Combined with Canada’s famously pristine water sources, these raw materials form the foundation of Spirit of York’s handcrafted spirits, delivering an authentically Canadian taste experience.

    By sourcing directly from local farmers, Spirit of York not only guarantees premium quality but also strengthens Canada’s agricultural economy, supporting Canadian jobs and ensuring the sustainability of local grain production. This dedication to homegrown ingredients is a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to producing spirits that are truly, unmistakably Canadian.

    Northfield Capital remains committed to investing in and advancing Canadian enterprises that drive economic growth and preserve national craftsmanship. Spirit of York exemplifies this vision – an uncompromising dedication to quality, sustainability, and local sourcing that supports Canadian farmers, distillers, and workers.

    As the demand for premium, authentically Canadian products rises, Northfield Capital and Spirit of York are proud to lead the charge, ensuring that consumers have access to superior, locally made spirits that stand apart in a global market.

    For more information, please visit www.northfieldcapital.com and www.spiritofyork.com.

    About Northfield Capital Corporation

    Northfield Capital Corporation is a publicly traded, leading Canadian investment firm with deep roots in resources, mining, aviation, and premium alcoholic beverages. Founded in 1981 by Robert D. Cudney, Northfield combines decades of experience with forward-thinking strategies to unlock opportunities across its diverse portfolio. The company is dedicated to fostering growth and innovation in businesses that drive economic prosperity in Canada.

    About Spirit of York Distillery Co.

    Spirit of York Distillery Co. is a premium Canadian spirits producer based in Toronto’s historic Distillery District. Committed to excellence, the distillery sources 100% of its ingredients from Canadian farms and uses traditional distillation methods to craft its award-winning gin, vodka, and other spirits. Every bottle is a reflection of Canada’s rich agricultural heritage, proudly made in Canada, for Canada.

    For further information, please contact:

    Michael G. Leskovec, CPA, CA
    Chief Financial Officer
    Telephone: (416) 628-5940

    Forward-Looking Information

    This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is identified by terms such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “will,” “would,” and similar expressions, including references to assumptions. Such information may relate to, but is not limited to, the expected impact of the partnership between Spirit of York Distillery Co. and Live Nation, anticipated market reception and brand growth, the Corporation’s ongoing commitment to Canadian agriculture and craftsmanship, and potential future economic conditions, including tariffs, affecting the Canadian spirits industry. Forward-looking information is based on current expectations, estimates, projections, and assumptions that involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, changes in consumer preferences, regulatory developments, economic conditions and penalties such as tariffs, supply chain disruptions, competitive dynamics in the spirits industry, and external market factors impacting Northfield’s and Spirit of York’s operations. There can be no assurance that the forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially due to a variety of risks and uncertainties. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Northfield Capital Corporation and Spirit of York Distillery Co. disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information contained herein, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities laws.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

    The MIL Network –