California Strawberry Record Acreage and AFBF-Deere MOU on Repairs

**California strawberry growers are projected to plant record strawberry acreage in 2023.

According to the California Strawberry Commission, farmers are planting more strawberries this year “to meet record demand.”

California growers are expected to plant more than 41,000 acres of strawberries this year, over 800 more than last year.

Fall plantings produce strawberries during the winter, spring and summer months.

**The American Farm Bureau and John Deere signed a memorandum of understanding ensurings farmers’ and ranchers’ rights to repair their own equipment.

The MOU comes after several years of discussions.

AFBF President, Zippy Duvall says, farmers must have the freedom to choose where equipment is repaired or repair it themselves to control costs.

John Deere’s David Gilmore says the agreement reaffirms Deere’s commitment to making sure customers have the diagnostic tools they need.

**A new survey shows significant support for ethanol and the Renewable Fuel Standard.

Morning Consult conducted the survey for the Renewable Fuels Association.

The survey shows nearly 55% support the Renewable Fuel Standard, while 15% oppose. Meanwhile, 64% approve the use of ethanol, while 18% do not.

Half the respondents said they aren’t interested in buying or leasing an electric vehicle in the next three years, while 42% were.

66% oppose banning the sale of liquid-fueled cars.