Did you miss some news this week? The holiday season can be hectic, so we’ve got you covered. Here’s a collection of the top headlines in agriculture.

Massive spending bill includes ag

There’s lots to unpack in the recently passed $1.7 trillion Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. From money for conservation projects to aid for specific producers, the massive omnibus spending bill will significantly impact agriculture. Discover what’s getting funding – and what got left out. – Farm Progress

Winter storm fails to boost soil moisture

A system moved across the country bringing frigid air and snowfall for parts of the country. However, the storm froze soils across the Great Plains and Upper Mississippi Valley and the precipitation that fell did not penetrate the soil. Soil moisture across most of the country remained status quo, while drought expanded in parts of the Midwest, Colorado, and Puerto Rico. – UNL Drought Monitor

Ag law developments of 2023

There was certainly no shortage agricultural law happenings in 2022. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension law specialist Tiffany Lashmet provides an overview of the biggest changes this year, from WOTUS to Prop 12 and everything in between. Also, get an idea of what to watch for as we turn the corner into the 2023 calendar year.  – Southwest Farm Press

Record year for beef exports

Beef exports will set a record in 2022, likely approaching $12 billion, while U.S. pork exports will fall shord of the records set in 2020 and 2021. Recent market access gains in China played a significant role in beef export growth, and overall, global demand saw growth. – U.S. Meat Export Federation

Texas ranch offers agritourism experience

Brazos Bluffs Ranch north of Waco, Texas offers guests the “quintessential Texas experience” on 300 acres of grassland interwoven with horse trails. The Brown family offers horse riding experiences for visitors to enjoy the outdoors. Learn how the business grew. – Southwest Farm Press

Colorado goes cage-free

Beginning January 1, all eggs and egg products sold in Colorado will need to meet new standards. Regulations require producers to phase into fully cage-free facilities by 2025, and the transition will begin will updated space requirements for laying hens. All Colorado commercial egg farms are certified compliant. – Colorado Department of Agriculture

China signals push to rebuild U.S. ties

China said it will strive to “recalibrate” its relationship with the U.S. and increase communication with Europe as the country outlines its major diplomatic tasks for next year. President Xi Jinping has sought to mend frayed ties with the U.S., holding the first in-person summit with President Biden last month in Indonesia. – Bloomberg