NEBRASKA CATTLE ON FEED DOWN 3 PERCENT 

Nebraska feedlots, with capacities of 1,000 or more head, contained 2.39 million cattle on feed on May 1, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Nebraska Field Office. This inventory was down 3 percent from last year.

Placements during April totaled 450,000 head, up 22 percent from 2012. This is the highest April placements since the data series began in 1994.

Fed cattle marketings for the month of April totaled 470,000 head, up 12 percent from last year. This is the highest April marketings since the data series began in 1994.   Other disappearance during April totaled 10,000 head, down 10,000 head from a year ago.



Iowa Cattle on Feed

Cattle and calves on feed for slaughter market in Iowa for all feedlots totaled 1,260,000 on May 1, 2013 according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service, Iowa Field Office.  The inventory is down 4 percent from April 1, 2013 and down 6 percent from May 1, 2012.  Feedlots with a capacity greater than 1,000 head had 620,000 head on feed, down 2 percent from last month and down 5 percent from last year.  Feedlots with a capacity less than 1,000 head had 640,000 head on feed, down 6 percent from last month and down 7 percent from last year.

Placements during April totaled 140,000 head, an increase of 7 percent from last month and up 32 percent from last year.  Feedlots with a capacity greater than 1,000 head placed 89,000 head, up 25 percent from last month and up 62 percent from last year.  Feedlots with a capacity less than 1,000 head placed 51,000 head. This is down 15 percent from last month and unchanged from last year.

Marketings  for April were  185,000  head,  up  28  percent  from  last month  and  up  35  percent  from  last  year. Feedlots with a capacity greater than 1,000 head marketed 97,000 head, up 26 percent from last month and up 35 percent from last year.   Feedlots with a capacity less than 1,000 head marketed 88,000 head, up 29 percent from last month and up 35 percent from last year. Other disappearance totaled 5,000 head.



United States Cattle on Feed Down 3 Percent
   
Cattle and calves on feed for slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 10.7 million head on May 1, 2013. The inventory was 3 percent below May 1, 2012.

Placements in feedlots during April totaled 1.75 million, 15 percent above 2012. Net placements were 1.68 million head. During April, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 375,000, 600-699 pounds were 270,000, 700-799 pounds were 455,000, and 800 pounds and greater were 650,000.

Marketings of fed cattle during April totaled 1.86 million, 2 percent above 2012.  Other disappearance totaled 69,000 during April, 12 percent below 2012.



Nebraska Cattlemen Executive Vice President Announces His Plans to Step Down

Michael Kelsey has announced he will be stepping down as the Executive Vice President of Nebraska Cattlemen, Inc. effective the end of June.  Kelsey has accepted the position of Executive Vice President of the Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association headquartered in Oklahoma City.

"It has been a great honor to work for the members of Nebraska Cattlemen for the past eight and a half years," Kelsey said.  "The dedicated leadership, staff and membership make Nebraska Cattlemen a premier organization with the highest commitment to Nebraska agriculture."

Nebraska Cattlemen President Dale Spencer shared, "We are very appreciative of Michael's leadership and dedication to NC these past eight plus years.  We will greatly miss Michael in the boardroom, and he has an uncanny ability to stand in front of a room and communicate with people. Simply put, he's one of the best in the business. We wish nothing but the best for Michael and his family.  We will miss him but congratulate him on moving to his home state."

Spencer states that the NC Executive Committee will meet on Monday, May 20th to finalize the job description and announce a formal search for a new executive vice president



Upper Big Blue NRD Board Approves Rule Changes Pertaining to Groundwater Transfers and Artesian Wells

The Upper Big Blue NRD Board of Directors met on May 16, 2013, and approved changes to District Rule 5 pertaining to groundwater irrigation transfers and artesian wells.  After receiving testimony from an April 23rd public hearing on two proposed changes to the NRD’s Groundwater Management Rules and Regulations, the Board has now adopted these rule changes.

A groundwater transfer is the act of pumping water from a well in one section of land and piping it to another section of land to irrigate.  The NRD has had regulations limiting such transfers since 1982; however, the newly adopted regulations would prohibit new groundwater irrigation transfers in designated marginal groundwater areas.  The rule change does not affect groundwater transfers that already exist.  Existing groundwater transfers in the designated areas may continue, but may not increase irrigated acres.  The areas that are now closed to new transfers are shown on the attached “ No Groundwater Transfer in Designated Areas” map.  Portions of the NRD that are not designated as a no groundwater transfer in designated areas on the map, must still be authorized by the NRD Board of Directors prior to implementing the project.  Existing regulations already limit the size and distance that groundwater may be transferred.

The second regulation change addresses artesian wells.  An artesian well is a well from which groundwater flows under natural pressure.  This occurs when a well is constructed in to a groundwater aquifer that is “confined” by a layer of clay material which the water cannot flow through naturally; and the groundwater is under pressure that is great enough to push the water up the well casing to a point above the land surface.  This condition occurs in a few areas of the NRD.  The major area where it is known to occur during the fall and winter months is in the Beaver Creek Valley and the West Fork of the Big Blue River Valley in eastern York and western Seward Counties near the Village of Beaver Crossing.  Three additions to the regulations are now enacted regarding artesian wells.  They are: 1). Artesian wells constructed on or after July 1, 2013, must be operated in such a manner as to prevent groundwater from the well to flow out and run to waste in an amount that exceeds what will flow through a pipe one-half inch in diameter;  2). Artesian wells constructed prior to July 1, 2013, may continue to operate as constructed until such time that the allocation provisions of the Groundwater Management Area regulations are implemented.  Upon implementation of allocation, artesian wells must be operated in such a manner as to prevent groundwater from a well to flow out and run to waste in an amount that exceeds what will flow through a pipe one-half inch in diameter; and, 3). An artesian well decommissioned after July 1, 2013, must be decommissioned in such a manner as to stop the flow of groundwater to waste.

A copy of the new rule changes to Rule 5 is available upon request at the NRD office at 105 N. Lincoln Avenue, York, Nebraska.



Conservation Reserve Program General Signup 45 Opens

Nebraska Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Director Dan Steinkruger announced today that Nebraska FSA will hold a Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) General Signup from May 20 through June 4, 2013.  “Producers and landowners are urged to take action now in considering the environmental and financial benefits of CRP as the signup period is only 4 weeks and it is anticipated that this may be the only opportunity to enroll in General CRP for several years,” said Steinkruger.

“CRP is an important program in Nebraska for protecting environmentally sensitive land from erosion and sedimentation, improving air quality and ensuring the sustainability of our groundwater, lakes and rivers.  CRP helps protect Nebraska’s natural resources, preserve wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation related to hunting and fishing,” said Steinkruger.  “Nebraska participants currently have over 900,000 acres enrolled in CRP and earn nearly $60 million in annual rental payments per year,” he said.

To be eligible, a producer must have owned or operated the offered acreage for at least 12 months prior to the end of the sign-up period (with some exceptions). The land must be cropland planted to an agricultural commodity four of the six crop years from 2002 to 2007 and be physically and legally capable of being planted. Offers for new acreage and acreage already in CRP but expiring on September 30, 2013 will be considered.  Offers will be ranked according to the Environmental Benefits Index (EBI). A cutoff score will determine offers accepted. FSA provides 50 percent cost-share assistance to establish the conservation cover and an annual rental payment based on the productivity of the soils and the average dryland cash rent value.  Rental rates were recently updated in Nebraska and increased substantially in many counties.

Steinkruger encouraged producers and landowners to also look into CRP’s other enrollment opportunities, including Continuous CRP, State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement Initiative, the Highly Erodible Land Initiative, the Grassland Restoration Initiative, the Pollinator Habitat Initiative, and the Platte-Republican CREP.  These programs are open on a continuous, non-competitive basis and provide even further financial opportunities and incentives.

For more information on CRP and other FSA programs, visit your local FSA Service Center or www.fsa.usda.gov.



ILL-TIMED CRITICSM OF VOLUNTARY FARMER-LED CONSERVATION PRACTICES, NUTRIENT REDUCTION STRATEGY COUNTERPRODUCTIVE

Activation of the Des Moines Water Works’ nitrate removal facility May 10 following six years of dormancy occurred due to unusually dry conditions going back to 2011, an unprecedented drought in 2012 and record precipitation this April (the most for that month in more than 140 years of record keeping).

Criticism of the inadequacies of voluntary, farmer-led soil and water conservation practices and the performance of a state nutrient reduction strategy not yet funded or implemented that accompanied its activation were ill-timed. Absent of appropriate context and dialogue, they have the potential to be divisive at a time when working collaboratively on such complex and important issues has never been more important.

The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), in partnership with Agriculture’s Clean Water Alliance (ACWA) and the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA), believe there’s a better approach: one nurtured through open dialogue and strong partnerships.

Today, the ISA, ACWA and ICGA formally invited Des Moines Water Works General Manager Bill Stowe to participate in an open dialogue with farmers and ag stakeholders on water quality issues at the June 27 ACWA board meeting to be held in Ames. Stowe has accepted the invitation to attend.

“We are pleased that Bill has accepted this invitation and we look forward to welcoming him at our meeting,” says Harry Ahrenholtz, ACWA president. “It illustrates genuine interest in discussing this important issue with our partners, members and farmers.”

An invitation was also extended to the Des Moines Register editorial board to participate in a comprehensive discussion about water quality and watershed management issues.

Roger Wolf, ISA director of environmental programs and services and ACWA executive director, says public statements singling out farmers for not doing their part to positively impact water quality illustrates a lack of engagement and understanding. Also, arbitrarily dismissing the intent of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy – a strategy that is not yet implemented – is ill-timed.

“To say the strategy lacks goals or measurable outcomes is false,” he says. “It advances a science and technology based framework to direct efforts to reduce nutrients in surface water from both point and nonpoint sources in a scientific, reasonable and cost effective manner. The strategy establishes a goal of at least a 45 percent reduction in total riverine nitrogen and phosphorous loading leaving the state.”

With specific respect to non-point sources, including agricultural land uses, combinations of technologies applied on farms and landscapes across Iowa will need to achieve a 41 percent load reduction in Nitrogen and 29 percent reduction in Phosphorous to meet the aspiring 45 percent reduction goal.

Farmers and water providers, Wolf says, have been proactive in addressing and protecting Iowa’s water quality by employing conservation methods that work in their fields and implementing more advanced purification systems. And while no system is perfect, farmers and stakeholders haven’t stopped striving for it.

“Everyone involved in the system – rural and urban – have benefited from longstanding relationships,” Wolf says. “We should resolve to continue the progress in improving environmental performance to the benefit of all Iowans. In lieu of the recent activities and statements critical of agriculture’s commitment to water quality, it’s vital that we work in collaboration to seek and develop holistic solutions benefiting both urban and rural residents.”



World Pork Expo seminars get down to business

World Pork Expo’s three days are filled with information and insights, and leading that effort are the business seminars. Scheduled for Wednesday, June 5, and Thursday, June 6, they will feature cutting-edge ideas on swine nutrition and management, and improved utilization of manure, as well as weather and market outlooks. Expo-goers will find business seminars, along with the free business-seminar luncheons, in the Varied Industries Building at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

“If you’re a pork producer looking for products, technology or information, World Pork Expo is the best place to spend your time,” says Randy Spronk, president of the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC). “Where else can you go to gather the information you need and have some fun at the same time?”

As a pork producer from Edgerton, Minn., Spronk adds that between the world’s largest pork-specific trade show, the seminars and the conversations with fellow producers, World Pork Expo offers ideas that can be applied today, as well as in the future. “Whether it involves animal housing, transportation or health, the industry is continually moving forward,” he says. “At World Pork Expo, you will find innovative products and ideas that you can apply back home.”

Spotlighting business management
On Wednesday, sponsor DSM Nutritional Products will kick off Expo’s business seminars at 9 a.m. with “Understanding the Ps — Feeding Pigs for People, Planet and Profit,” three presentations outlining swine nutrition strategies to improve production efficiencies and profit. The speakers include Joel DeRouchey, Ph.D. extension specialist at Kansas State University, along with DSM specialists, Fidelis Fru, Chris Parks, Ph.D., and Jon Bergstrom, Ph.D.

Wednesday at 3 p.m., Feeding for 30® sponsors Purina Animal Nutrition, Zinpro Corporation and DSM Nutritional Products will present a sow nutrition and management seminar designed to help producers achieve 30 pigs per sow per year. Organized as an interactive peer-to-peer forum, a panel of pork producers and swine nutritionists will share new tips and management insights, and answer questions.

Thursday’s seminar, sponsored by SFP, will begin at 9:30 a.m., and address ways to increase the phosphorus and nitrogen availability of swine manure applied as fertilizer. Matt Werner, SFP’s research coordinator, will present results from on-farm research and discuss manure management strategies from the pit to land application.

On both Wednesday and Thursday, the National Pork Board (NPB) will sponsor a business-seminar luncheon in the upper level of the Varied Industries Building. The program will begin at 12:30 p.m. with a weather outlook from Elwynn Taylor, Ph.D., Iowa State University. Steve Meyer, Ph.D., president of Paragon Economics, will present the outlook for the crop, swine and competing meats markets, concluding by 2:30 p.m.

More seminar and PORK Academy details available
Rounding out this year’s seminar offerings at World Pork Expo is PORK Academy, presented by the Pork Checkoff. Throughout the day on Wednesday and Thursday, nine seminars will address a wide range of topics including sow productivity and housing, food safety, exports, on-farm security and steps to protect against a foreign animal disease.

More details about the business seminars, the business-seminar luncheons and PORK Academy are available at www.worldpork.org. Regular updates are available when you connect with World Pork Expo on Facebook, follow World Pork Expo on Twitter (#NPPCWPX) or download the official app by searching for “World Pork” in the Apple Store, Android Market or Blackberry’s App World.

This year, World Pork Expo celebrates its 25th anniversary, June 5-7, at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. More than 400 commercial exhibits will be on display from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 5, and Thursday, June 6, as well as from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, June 7. The swine breeding stock sales will continue on Saturday, June 8, from 8 a.m. until they're completed (at approximately noon).



Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy Announces Quarterly Results

Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy, LLC, announced its financial results for the three and six months ended March 31, 2013. SIRE reported a net loss of $2,424,000 or $184.49 per unit, compared to a net loss of $3,987,000 or $303.42 per unit for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The cash flow from operations was $405,000 compared to $13,060,000 for the six months ended March 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively; with the overall cash flow for the six months ended March 31, 2013 of $5,645,000 compared to ($934,000) for the six months ended March 31, 2012.

Adjusted EBITDA, which is defined as earnings before interest, income taxes, and depreciation and/or amortization, or EBITDA, as adjusted for unrealized hedging losses (gains) was $4,172,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2013 and $967,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2012. SIRE had $11.93 million in cash and equivalents and $3.124 million available under committed loan agreements (subject to satisfaction of specified lending conditions and covenants) at March 31, 2013.

Brian Cahill, SIRE's president and CEO, stated, "As we look back on the three months ended March 31, 2013, we made strong strides in improving our operations through lower costs and greatly reducing our net loss by bringing our production back up to capacity. We will closely monitor the moisture conditions, corn availability and ethanol market price conditions and adjust our production accordingly."

SIRE is an Iowa limited liability company, located in Council Bluffs, Iowa, formed in March, 2005 to construct and operate a 110 million gallon capacity ethanol plant. SIRE began producing ethanol in February, 2009 and sells its ethanol, modified wet distillers grains with solubles, corn syrup, and corn oil in the continental United States. SIRE also sells its dried distillers grains with solubles in the continental United States, Mexico and the Pacific Rim.



Vilsack on Congressional Progress Toward Passage of a Food, Farm and Jobs Bill

Today, Secretary Vilsack made the following statement on congressional progress toward passage of a Food, Farm and Jobs Bill:

"I am encouraged that Congress took action this week toward passage of a five-year, comprehensive Food, Farm and Jobs Bill.

I appreciate the leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee, in particular Chairwoman Stabenow and Senator Cochran, for their efforts in crafting bipartisan legislation. The bill would help revitalize the rural economy by supporting agricultural trade, local and regional food systems, renewable energy and biobased manufacturing. It would maintain a firm commitment to conservation while streamlining programs and linking crop insurance payments to the nation's soil conservation and wetland protection goals.  USDA looks forward to working with the Senate to achieve significant deficit reduction by building on these reforms to farm programs.

I also appreciate efforts by Chairman Lucas and Congressman Peterson to pass a bill out of the House Agriculture Committee. I am deeply concerned about portions of the House version of the bill, including significant cuts that would deny struggling families and their children access to food assistance.  The Administration strongly supports the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), a cornerstone of our Nation's food assistance safety net, which is why it was not subject to cuts in the President's Budget.  SNAP helps families put food on the table, while also benefitting farm and rural economies. These issues need to be resolved so Congress can achieve passage of a final Food, Farm and Jobs Bill without delay. USDA remains committed to working with Congress to get the strongest bill possible for all Americans."



Floor Action Starts Monday in the Senate; Likely June in the House

Indications are that legislators will waste no time in taking up the farm bill drafts on both the Senate and House floors. The version approved by the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee on Tuesday was introduced later that day on the Senate floor as S. 954. The Senate could begin farm bill debate on Monday, with votes on amendments beginning as early as Tuesday and passage as early as late next week. Ag leaders in the House have said their bill will likely come to the floor of that chamber in June. If both schedules stick – and the bills avoid serious problems during floor debate – conference could begin by mid-summer and a new law could be in place before the extension of the 2008 Farm Bill expires on Sept. 30.



Informa Trims Corn Acres, Ups Beans

Private analytical firm Informa Economics expects farmers will plant 455,000 fewer acres of corn than USDA suggested in its Prospective Plantings report in March. Soybean acreage is likely to increase 1.2 million acres.

Informa estimates farmers will plant 96.8 million acres of corn as compared to March's USDA estimate of 97.28 ma. North Dakota leads the decline. Farmers there are expected to plant 400,000 fewer acres of corn. Minnesota farmers will plant 300,000 less, while Mississippi and Arkansas growers are each expected to sow 150,000 acres less.  The declines will be partially offset by higher corn plantings in Illinois, expected to increase by 300,000 acres, and Missouri, up 200,000.

Informa expects soybean acreage to total 78.3 ma, up from March's USDA estimate of 77.13 ma. That's 1.1 ma higher than last year with the largest increases seen in the Western Corn Belt. Minnesota will plant 450,000 more acres to soybeans, drawing away from spring wheat and corn, while Nebraska will plant 300,000 more acres than previously expected. Illinois' 300,000-acre gain in corn translates to a 300,000-acre soybean decline.  Double-crop soybean acres are expected to increase 7% from last year to 6.3 million acres, Informa's report stated.



NCBA Submits Comments on Potential U.S. / E.U. Trade Agreement

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) recently submitted comments to the United States Trade Representative (USTR) regarding the proposed Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) between the United States (U.S.) and European Union (E.U.). This is an expanding market for U.S. beef, with $236 million of U.S. beef purchased by European consumers in 2012 according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Last year the U.S. and E.U. progressed to Phase II of the 2009 memorandum of understanding, which allows the U.S. to compete for a quota of 45,000 metric tons of duty free beef from non-hormone treated cattle exports.

According to NCBA’s Associate Director of Legislative Affairs Kent Bacus, this is a welcome increase from the 20,000 metric ton quota in previous years, but it is still a barrier to full market access.

“Without question, expanding market access in the E.U. would be a great opportunity for the U.S. beef industry. The U.S. beef industry has a longstanding history of providing the E.U. with high quality U.S. beef and we look forward to improving that relationship through the TTIP,” said Bacus. “Unfortunately, there are fundamental differences between the U.S. and the E.U. regarding the use of science and technology in food production. Production practices in the U.S. are based on rigorous scientific review and are continuously improved to employ the latest advancements in scientific research and animal husbandry, with the overall goal of improving production efficiency while improving the overall environmental impact.”

Bacus added that meanwhile, the E.U. continues to employ the “precautionary principle” which discourages the development and use of scientific advancements. As a result, he said, U.S. beef has been the victim of unwarranted trade restrictions throughout the years.

“For the benefit of both the U.S. and the E.U., we must set parochial interests aside and establish a twenty-first century agreement based on internationally-recognized scientific standards, free from tariffs, quotas, and subsidies, where the free market allows competition to flourish and encourage sustainable trade,” Bacus said. “If the U.S. and E.U. truly want to establish a stronger trade relationship, science based and market driven agriculture policies must be part of the final trade agreement.”



USSEC Touts Importance of Amino Acids as Value-Determining Factor of SBM during Korean Feed Mill Visits

The U.S. Soybean Export Council recently visited three Korean feed mills as it endeavors to stress the importance of linking amino acids to the price of soybean meal (SBM).  The feed mills visited were Sunjin Co., Ltd., a swine integrator; Easy Bio Co., Ltd., a broiler integrator; and Cargill Agri Purina Co., Ltd.  Staff from these mills traveled to the U.S. last October to meet with USSEC’s U.S. SBM buyers’ team.  Easy Bio and Cargill Agri Purina are currently using 17,000 MT and 15,000 MT, respectively, of U.S. SBM.

While the technical staff members of the Korean feed and livestock industry already generally accept the concept that digestible amino acid is more valuable than crude protein, purchasing staff still tend to stick to crude protein-dependent purchasing decisions on SBM.  USSEC technical director Kim Nill discussed with R&D, Q/C and formulation staff of the three feed mills how to change the criteria that purchasing staff use for evaluating SBM.  Based on these discussions, USSEC plans to host a roundtable to educate purchasing staff about determining amino acids as the value-determining factor of SBM.  USSEC’s published SBM whitepaper and the Korean Feed Association’s analysis result on imported SBMs were shared with the feed mills to differentiate U.S. SBM.   Both reports indicate that U.S. SBM provides more amino acids than South American SBM.



Update: USGC Co-Products Conference

The second half of the U.S. Grains Council's Co-Products Conference ended in Tokyo, Japan last week. While in Korea, the conference was met with positive feedback, and similar sentiments were expressed in Japan.

Over 200 trade industry and government officials attended the conference and were provided the latest information on U.S. ethanol policy, corn and co-products. Many Japanese expressed concern over possible negative impacts of the U.S. ethanol policy on global grain supply demand. All concerns were addressed during the seminar in one-on-on meetings.

P5091978"The conference was a success in Japan. Attendees were reassured that the Council is a primary source of information on the grain industry," said Tommy Hamamoto, USGC director in Japan. Japan remains the largest importer of U.S. corn, and the country is looking forward to the 2013 crop from the United States.



Rabo AgriFinance Report Finds Weather Will Delay Demand Across Global Nutrient Markets

Cool, wet conditions in much of the Midwest and concerns regarding future weather will delay the normal cycle of fertilizer restocking, bringing significant uncertainty to the 2013 Q2 fertilizer markets, according to a new report released by researchers at the Rabobank International Food & Agribusiness Research and Advisory (FAR) group. The report finds that, overall, the pace of fertilizer demand is now increasing seasonally and fuelling a pick-up in global trading activity.

The report goes on to show the fast-approaching Northern Hemisphere planting season will be pivotal in driving short-term agri-commodity prices. Across South America, all eyes are on the weather as planting of winter crops continues.

“Across most regions, a financial incentive to maximize production is driving a large planting, which will lead to a predominately neutral price outlook,” notes Sterling Liddell, Senior Vice President with the Rabobank Food & Agribusiness Research and Advisory group.  “However, there are some uncertainties regarding policy, which will ultimately impact market sentiment.  As a result, buyers will be cautious but eventually, global purchasers will need to lock in fertilizer supply contracts. ”

After a bullish start, global urea prices have started to wane. Delayed demand and field work in the U.S. and Europe respectively, have combined with oversupply (the extent of which was demonstrated in the much-anticipated import tenders in India during April) to drive a shift to a buyers’ market. Rabobank’s outlook for urea in Q2 2013 is neutral to negative.

Phosphate prices are expected to increase marginally, as various factors combine to limit demand.  U.S. farmers applied significant volumes of DAP/MAP in Fall 2012, which will result in lower demand this spring. In addition, the 2012/13 crop year was the second year in a row to see elevated agri-commodity prices. While this would traditionally lead farmers to spend their additional purchasing power on phosphates to restore levels in the soil, this was done the previous year, so the catch-up effect will not be seen as robustly  as in past years. Finally, China’s low export tax window will open two weeks earlier than in recent years, and the extra Chinese supply will lower the upside global price potential.

The reduction in international potash prices is directly related to the renegotiation of new supply contracts with importers in China and India. The willingness of growers in India to reduce potash application detracts from the industry’s intention to increase prices on the open market during this quarter. However, potash demand is expected to increase in South America and parts of Asia as farmers take advantage of good crop economics, which should enable the industry to avoid new strong price reductions in the short term.



A Food, Farm and Jobs Bill: Helping Protect Our Natural Resources
Tom Vilsack, USDA Secretary

This year, passage of a long-term, comprehensive Food, Farm and Jobs Bill is critical to providing certainty for U.S. producers. This includes the continued availability of conservation programs that give our farmers, ranchers and private foresters the means to conserve the soil, protect our water and sustain America’s natural resources.

Thanks to programs provided by the Farm Bill, USDA has been able to enroll a record number of private lands in conservation practices. Over the past four years, we have worked with more than 500,000 producers, landowners and private foresters on projects that help the environment, while providing a new source of income.

From May 20 to June 14, USDA is holding the 45th General Signup under the Conservation Reserve Program – another important effort provided by a Food, Farm and Jobs Bill.

The program saves hundreds of millions of pounds of nitrogen and phosphorous from flowing into water sources. It provides valuable wildlife habitat, and hunting opportunities that help rural communities generate economic benefits from outdoor recreation. In times of severe drought, conservation lands can provide additional forage land for ranchers.

Such programs also provide the base from which USDA is expanding new opportunities in conservation and outdoor recreation. – an important cornerstone of President Obama’s plan to revitalize the rural economy.

At USDA, we are taking a wide variety of steps to help achieve this goal. Today we’re developing new ways for producers to earn income through conservation measures. We’re undertaking new efforts to help communities create jobs through outdoor recreation. And we are expanding new partnerships between the government and landowners, to ensure that land stewardship is recognized and rewarded.

A robust Conservation Title in a Food, Farm and Jobs Bill impacts all of these efforts.

While Congress extended the Farm Bill conservation programs in January, they will expire once again in September. However, conservation is a long-term undertaking that requires farmers, ranchers and forest landowners to plan years into the future.

That’s why a one year extension of the Food, Farm and Jobs Bill doesn’t work and why we need a long-term bill. Like farmers, ranchers and forest owners, we at USDA take the long view and so we’ll continue working with Congress to get a five-year bill Food, Farm and Jobs Bill passed.



VIRGINIA CATTLE RANCHER IS NATIONAL “FARM MOM OF THE YEAR”

The online votes have been tallied, and Betty Rosson, a Virginia grain and cattle farmer, is Monsanto’s 2013 America’s Farmers Mom of the Year.

Betty’s nomination, submitted by son Charles, was chosen by judges of American Agri-Women as regional winner for the Southeast. Online voting was conducted in early May, during which time anyone could visit AmericasFarmers.com, read regional winners’ nominations and cast a vote for one to receive the national title. Betty received the most online votes, and she was notified of her national win on Mother’s Day.

“Whether she is driving a tractor, feeding cows or caring for her family, Elizabeth (Betty) is 100 percent all-in for the job,” wrote Charles in the winning nomination. “Mom certainly doesn’t let grass grow under her feet, as she is always on the move for her family, her church, her farm and the community.”

Charles’ nomination mentioned Betty’s involvement in the FFA, 4-H and Ag in the Classroom, in addition to the Louisa County Farm Bureau and livestock judging and showmanship clinics hosted at the farm. She manages all the record-keeping and taxes for Quaker Hill Farm, in addition to planning two annual cattle production sales. She is a founding member of her church and is a board member of her local volunteer rescue squad. She does all this while caring for her 92-year-old mother. The recognition is not new to Betty, as she recently represented Louisa County and the Central District and was a runner up in the Virginia Farm Bureau Woman of the Year contest

“This is a wonderful Mother’s Day surprise!” Betty Rosson said upon learning she had won. “Raising a family on the farm and being involved with agriculture is a blessing. I share this recognition with farm moms everywhere!”

Quaker Hill Farm is a fifth-generation family farming operation that is a partnership of Betty, husband, Charles, and two of their five sons, Charles and Lee. The Rossons farm hay, pasture and grain crops and grow corn, soybeans, wheat and barley to feed to the cattle as a cash crop. They also have 750 brood cows consisting of primarily Angus and Simmental. The Rossons have more than 20 sires enrolled in artificial insemination bull stud operations, and have exported cattle around the world, as far away as Turkey and Russia. Quaker Hill Farm is also home to show pigs and Boer goats for 4-H and FFA students to show.

All five regional “Farm Mom of the Year” winners will receive a $5,000 cash prize from Monsanto. As national winner, Betty will receive an additional $5,000. A check presentation ceremony is being planned in her honor for early summer.

“From the large pool of nominations from almost every state, Betty’s immediately stood out,” said Kris Zilliox of American Agri-Women. “Like so many farm moms, she is passionate about supporting her family, bettering her community and increasing awareness of American agriculture. She’s a fantastic representation of what being a modern farm mom is all about!”

Visit AmericasFarmers.com to read more about Betty and the other 2013 regional winners. To request a list of winners by mail, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to America’s Farmers Mom of the Year, Attn: Nancy Hallahan, 914 Spruce Street, St. Louis, MO 63102.

America’s Farmers Mom of the Year is an element of Monsanto’s America’s Farmers program, an advocacy effort promoting, recognizing and supporting U.S. farmers through communications, awards and special programs that highlight the importance of agriculture.

Farm Income Growth Slows
Nathan Kauffman, Economist, Kansas City Federal Reserve

Rising production costs and falling crop prices curbed farm income growth in the first quarter of 2013. High feed and forage costs continued to stifle profitability in the livestock sector, where losses were compounded by declines in livestock prices and the persistence of intense drought. Crop production expenses, particularly for seed and fertilizer, climbed higher as planting season approached. Higher than expected inventories dampened crop prices at the end of the quarter, further limiting farm income gains. Crop prices were expected to fall throughout the growing season and wheat harvest, potentially restoring livestock and ethanol sector profits but restraining farm income from crop sales.

Land values climbed further in the first quarter of 2013. District cropland values rose 20 percent and ranchland values rose 14 percent year-over-year, a modest slowdown compared with the first quarter of 2012. Rising land values strengthened the balance sheet of farmers who own land but boosted debt levels for others financing farmland purchases. Even though most bankers commented that debt levels have remained manageable, some noted that record land prices were raising the debt obligations for young and beginning farmers and producers expanding their operations. Bankers also indicated that livestock producers were more highly leveraged due to recent losses accentuated by drought.

After a robust first quarter, farm household and capital spending were expected to slow in the coming months amid softening incomes and higher operating costs. According to survey respondents, capital spending was stronger than expected in the first quarter even after a surge in equipment purchases at the end of 2012.  Producers appeared to be taking advantage of record low interest rates to finance capital purchases but were using cash to cover operating costs, limiting overall operating loan demand. In addition to weak demand for operating loans, bankers reported fewer requests for farm loan renewals and extensions compared with last year. Although loan repayment rates remained higher than the previous year, the pace of improvement was expected to slow considerably with mounting production costs and expectations of lower farm income.

Read the entire report here...  http://www.kansascityfed.org/publicat/research/indicatorsdata/agcredit/AGCR1Q13.pdf.  



Rural Mainstreet Economy Advances for Month:  Farmland Price Growth Slows

Growth strengthened for the Rural Mainstreet economy over the past month according to the May survey of bank CEOs in a 10-state area.   

Overall: 
The Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI), which ranges between 0 and 100 with 50.0 representing growth neutral, climbed to 58.8, its highest level since December 2012, and up from April’s healthy 58.3.

Bankers reported on the most significant risks to the Rural Mainstreet economy for 2013. Approximately 60 percent reported that low agriculture commodity prices are the greatest threat to the farm-based economy for 2013.  Another 16.7 percent indicated that drought is the number one threat to the rural economy for 2013 while 15.2 percent reported that the bursting of the farmland price bubble is the biggest economic threat for the agriculturally dependent economy for 2013.

On a positive note, Charles Helscher, president of Farmers Savings Bank in Keota, Iowa, reported, “The drought appears to be over in southeast Iowa, at least temporarily.” However he indicated that excessive rain has delayed planting and some bottom ground may not be planted due to flooding.

Farming:
The farmland price index dipped to a still strong 62.1 from 66.9 in April. The farmland-price index has been above growth neutral for more than three years. However, the index has now declined for the fifth time the past six months. The farm-equipment-sales index declined to 52.4 from 57.3 in April.

“Since the beginning of the year, the U.S. dollar has climbed in value by 5 percent,” said Ernie Goss, the Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University. “This has been a factor pushing farm commodity prices downward.  For example, corn prices have slumped by almost 10 percent since December of last year. This trend, which I expect to continue in the months ahead, has taken a bit of the air out of farmland price growth and farm-implement-sales growth.”

Banking: 
The loan-volume index moved above growth neutral for the month. The index rose to 72.1 from 66.0 in April. The checking-deposit index declined to 54.5 from April’s 63.0 while the index for certificates of deposit and other savings instruments advanced to a weak 42.6 from last month’s 40.4.

“We are recording more and more reports of negative economic fallout from Dodd-Frank,” said Goss.

Larry Rogers, president of the First Bank of Utica, Utica, Neb., said, “Dodd-Frank and new regulations from the Consumer Financial Protection Board are strangling us. New regulations are going to cause us to quit making residential real estate loans hurting the people these regulations are supposed to be helping.”

Hiring:
May’s hiring index expanded to 59.8 from April’s 57.5. “Despite solid job creation across Rural Mainstreet beginning in January 2011, rural areas are still not back to pre-recession employment levels. Government data show that regional employment is off more than 1.2 percent,” said Goss.

Bankers pointed to federal policy’s negative impact on job creation. Michael Flahaven, president of Wenona State Bank in Wenona, Ill., said, “The Healthcare Reform Act will likely affect employment in this area in the months ahead. The Dodd-Frank regulations will adversely affect community banks.”

Confidence:
The confidence index, which reflects expectations for the economy six months out, dipped to 54.5 from 56.3 in April. “Over the past three months, we asked bankers how the federal spending sequestration was affecting their area economy,” said Goss. “Each month, approximately three-fourths of the bank CEOs reported no impact from sequestration. Only 1.5 percent reported significant impacts with the remaining 20.6 percent indicating only modest impacts.”

Home and retail sales:
For a fourth straight month the homes-sales index took a large, positive jump. The May home-sales index advanced to a record 73.9 from April’s 70.8. The May retail-sales index rose to 52.3 from April’s 51.4. “Despite the growth in home sales, bankers reported a modest 4 percent growth in housing prices for Rural Mainstreet over the past year.  However, one in 10 bankers indicated that housing prices in their area had expanded by more than 10 percent over the past year,” said Goss. 

Nebraska: 
After moving below growth neutral for January, Nebraska’s Rural Mainstreet index has now moved above growth neutral for four straight months. The May RMI expanded slightly to 57.7 from 57.3 in April. The farmland-price index for May sank to 53.9 from April’s 65.4.

Iowa:
The May RMI for Iowa dipped to 58.1 from April’s 62.3. The farmland-price index sank to 60.7 from 70.0 in April. Iowa’s new-hiring index for May weakened slightly to 59.1 from 60.2 in March.

Each month, community bank presidents and CEOs in nonurban, agriculturally and energy-dependent portions of a 10-state area are surveyed regarding current economic conditions in their communities and their projected economic outlooks six months down the road. Bankers from Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming are included.

This survey represents an early snapshot of the economy of rural, agriculturally and energy-dependent portions of the nation. The Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) is a unique index covering 10 regional states, focusing on approximately 200 rural communities with an average population of 1,300. It gives the most current real-time analysis of the rural economy. Goss and Bill McQuillan, president of CNB Community Bank of Greeley, Neb., created the monthly economic survey in 2005.



Energy, Energy, Energy
Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension Forage Specialist

Are you one of the lucky ones with pasture to graze? As you start and progress through the breeding season, are you sure your pasture is providing the right nutrition this year? The answer may surprise you.

Regardless of whether you breed cows on good looking green grass or have virtually no grass, cows are at a higher risk than usual this year of ending up open. Research shows that cows on an increasing plane of nutrition are bred more easily than those on a declining plane of nutrition. So it might be smart this year to do some extra supplementing to make sure your cows get bred.

The supplement needed, though, may not be what you expect. Most of the time when we supplement cows, we provide protein. This year, at least during late spring and early summer, your cows might need energy or TDN even more than extra protein.

Cows are likely to be short on energy if they're grazing pastures that are still in drought. They definitely are deficient in both energy and protein if they are being fed primarily hay or corn stalk bales, especially if the hay isn't alfalfa. While cows grazing lush green grass might more than meet their energy and protein needs now, if it becomes hot and dry like last summer and grasses go dormant later in the breeding season, cows could need extra energy, or protein, or both.

Getting cows extra energy may not be simple, however. High starch feeds like corn grain often reduce digestibility of the roughage in the diet, so they aren't the best choice. Better are digestible fibers like corn gluten, distillers grains, or soyhulls that provide energy much more efficiently, but availability and storage can present challenges.

If you are uncertain about the diet your cows are getting, check with an extension educator or a nutritionist. Supplements may be expensive, but open cows are even worse.



Producers in 38 States Including Nebraska Receive Funds to Support Advanced Biofuel Production

   Acting Under Secretary for Rural Development Doug O’Brien today announced payments to producers in 38 states to support the production of advanced biofuels.  Three Nebraska producers will receive a combined total of more than $1.4 million in payments.  The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) remains focused on carrying out its mission, despite a time of significant budget uncertainty.  Today’s announcement is one part of the Department’s efforts to strengthen the rural economy.

   Ethanol facilities across the Midwest have traditionally utilized corn as their primary feedstock for ethanol production. Several plants however have found advanced biofuel production to be advantageous and have therefore incorporated grain sorghum into their feedstock.
·       Chief Ethanol Fuels, in Hastings, Nebraska, produces ethanol from sorghum at its ethanol facility located in Hastings, Nebraska.  Chief has participated in the program for three years.  Chief Ethanol Fuel, Inc. will receive $16,314 in payments.
·       Cornhusker Energy Lexington, LLC, also procures sorghum to produce advanced ethanol biofuel at its ethanol facility located in Lexington, Nebraska.  Cornhusker Energy Lexington, LLC has participated in the program since 2011.  Cornhusker Energy Lexington, LLC will receive $2,037 in payments to offset the advanced biofuel production costs.

   Biodiesel is made from an increasingly diverse mix of feedstocks, including used cooking oil, agricultural oils and animal fats.
·       Ag Processing Inc., headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska, produces biodiesel from soybean, canola and waste vegetable oil feedstock at their St. Joseph, Missouri, Sargeant Bluffs, Iowa, and Algona, Iowa production facilities.  It has participated in the program since 2009.  Ag Processing, Inc. will receive $1,404,008 in payments. The payments help offset the costs associated with producing the advanced biodiesel biofuel.

    “These payments represent the Obama administration’s commitment to support an ‘all of the above’ energy strategy,” O’Brien said. “Producing advanced biofuels is a major component of the drive to take control of America’s energy future by developing domestic, renewable energy sources.”

    The funding is being provided through USDA’s Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels, which was established in the 2008 Farm Bill.  Under this program, payments are made to eligible producers based on the amount of advanced biofuels produced from renewable biomass, other than corn kernel starch.  Examples of eligible feedstocks include but are not limited to: crop residue; animal, food and yard waste material; vegetable oil; and animal fat. Biofuel can be from a variety of non-food sources, including waste products.

    Through this and other programs, USDA is working to support the research, investment and infrastructure necessary to build a strong biofuels industry that creates jobs and broadens the range of feedstocks used to produce renewable fuel. More than 280 producers in 45 states and territories have received $192.5 million in payments since the program’s inception.  It has supported the production of more than 3 billion gallons of advanced biofuel and the equivalent of more than 36 billion kilowatt hours of electric energy.



University of Nebraska Water and Natural Resources Tour Is June 25-26

            Urban and rural management of Nebraska's water resources will be examined in a two-day University of Nebraska water and natural resources tour in June.

            The June 25 and 26 tour is jointly planned and conducted by NU’s Water Center, the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce, and Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District. The Nebraska Water Center is part of NU's Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Institute.

            The tour leaves from and returns to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus in Lincoln but will be based primarily in and around York and Clay Center.

           Present and future management of Nebraska's surface and groundwater resources from both rural and urban perspectives will be the tour's main focus.

            "In terms of current and future demands and with additional impacts of ongoing drought conditions fresh in everyone's minds, the timing is right to visit these topics in some detail," said tour organizer and retired UNL water resources engineer Mike Jess.

            The annual tour is normally three days, but to keep costs in check and accommodate schedules that sometimes have difficulty fitting in a three-day tour, organizers thought a two-day format was worth exploring for this year's in-state tour. Traditional July tour dates have also been moved up to take advantage of the probability of cooler temperatures.

            The tour will encompass several watersheds and look at both rural and urban water management issues. There will be one overnight at York.

            Anticipated tour stops include:
            –The Jayne Snyder Trails Center, Lincoln, with discussions hosted by the Lower Platte South NRD on the Antelope Creek flood control and urban development project.
            – Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center near Denton.
            – Monsanto Research Center near Waco for discussions on crop research and genetics.
            – Preferred Sands of Genoa for viewing and discussion of sands used in the fracking industry.
            – Crop demonstration sites and public works water projects in the Upper Big Blue NRD and York areas.
            – Agricultural water management and research projects at UNL’s South Central Agricultural Lab near Clay Center
            – A tour and discussion of the missions of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Meat Animal Research Center near Clay Center.
            – A tour of Reinke Manufacturing Co. near Deshler.

            Registration is $400 per person single occupancy or $350 per person double occupancy. To register, contact Nollette at the Kearney Area Chamber at (308) 237-3168 or email jnollette@kearneycoc.org. Space is limited and registration is first-come, first-served.

            Additional tour organizers are Jeff Buettner of Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District and Nollette of the Kearney Area Chamber of Commerce.

            Additional sponsors include Monsanto Company and Nebraska Public Power District.



IBIC Joins 50th Anniversary Council Federation Celebration

The Iowa Beef Industry Council is joining with other beef councils around the country in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Federation of State Beef Councils. Established in 1963, the Federation helps assure grassroots involvement in the national $1-per-head Beef Checkoff Program and provides assistance and support to state beef councils.

First created in 1963 as the Beef Industry Council of the National Live Stock and Meat Board, the Federation is now a division of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA), which is a contractor to the Beef Checkoff Program. Qualified State Beef Councils in 45 states collect the $1-per-head checkoff, and retain control of 50 cents of each dollar to be used on in-state, national and international beef promotion, research and education programs approved by their boards. The other 50 cents is sent to the Cattlemen's Beef Board for use in national and international demand-building programs.

"Over the past half century, this has been a successful cooperative effort at the state and national levels to help build demand for our beef," says Terri Carstensen, Iowa Federation Director from Odebolt. "The foundation built by visionary beef producers back in the 1950s and 60s has proven solid over time. We're excited about what we've done, but even more excited about what this partnership means for the future."

In addition to collecting the dollar and conducting in-state programs, state beef councils select representatives to the Federation, which elects half of the members of the 20-member Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC), which helps select programs to be funded with national checkoff funds. BPOC-identified programs must be approved by both the Cattlemen's Beef Board and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. State councils also select representatives of Joint Advisory Committees that help identify Checkoff-funded programs to conduct.

Helen Wiese, Manning, who also represents Iowa on the Federation says giving state beef councils such important roles assures grassroots participation in, and control over, the Beef Checkoff Program. Furthermore, research shows producers continue to support these kinds of efforts in this kind of program. In 1988 the approval level in a referendum to continue the program was 79 percent. The most recent independent producer attitude study in the December 2012 put the producer approval level at 76 percent, which is unchanged since January 2012.

"The bottom-up structure of the Beef Checkoff Program has passed the test of time," says Wiese. "Although there will certainly be changes to our programs and our structure as our industry matures, I'm confident the successful base we've established will be around for at least another half century. We're thrilled to help wish a happy 50th Anniversary to the Federation of State Beef Councils."



AFBF Urges Congress to Keep Current Tax Tools

Farmers and ranchers need a tax code to manage the risks associated with agriculture while complying with tax liabilities, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation. In a statement filed this week with the House Ways and Means Committee for a hearing on small business taxation, AFBF urged congressional members to maintain cash accounting tools and higher small business expensing limits in any tax code rewrite.

Cash accounting tools, like the deferral of commodity and product receipts and prepaying the cost of livestock feed, fertilizer and other farm supplies, are important to farmers. Proposed changes to cash accounting rules, which would require some farmers to change to accrual accounting, would be time-consuming and costly to farms and ranches.

"Farmers and ranchers will either have to take time away from running their businesses or pay for help to comply," said AFBF. "Both are harmful in an industry with tight profit margins, unpredictable income streams and an inability to pass on added expenses to customers."

Farm Bureau said it supports the continuation of unrestricted cash accounting currently available to most farmers and ranchers and cautioned against reducing the number of partnership types eligible to use the tool.

Further, because farming and ranching requires large investments in machinery, equipment and other depreciable capital, Farm Bureau said it supports maintaining the $500,000, Section 179 small business expensing limitation and not reducing the $2 million acquisition limit, both of which are scheduled to drop next year respectively to a $25,000 limitation with a $200,000 threshold. Section 179 provides accelerated expensing and depreciation, allowing farmers to better manage cash flow, minimize tax liabilities and reduce borrowing.



NASS Releases 2012 Chemical Use Data for Soybeans, Wheat

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service has published the 2012 Agricultural Chemical Use Survey data for soybeans and wheat. During the fall of 2012, NASS conducted the survey among soybean producers in 19 states and wheat producers in 15 states. The information released includes on-farm fertilizer use, pesticide use, and pest management practices.

The 19 states surveyed for chemical use on soybeans accounted for 96 percent of the soybean acreage planted in the United States during the 2012 crop year (the period starting after the 2011 harvest through end of the 2012 harvest). Phosphate and potash were each applied to 37 percent of planted acres, making them the most widely used fertilizer materials, followed by nitrogen (27 percent of planted acres).

Farmers applied herbicides to 98 percent of soybean planted acres, more widely than insecticides (18 percent) and fungicides (11 percent). The top monitoring practice for managing pests was scouting for weeds, used on 94 percent of planted acres. The survey also asked about prevention, avoidance, and suppression practices for managing pests.

The 13 states surveyed for chemical use on winter wheat accounted for 80 percent of the winter wheat acreage planted in the United States during the 2012 crop year. The four states surveyed for chemical use on spring wheat (excluding durum) accounted for 91 percent of the spring wheat (excluding durum) acreage planted in the United States in the 2012 crop year. The two states surveyed during the 2012 crop year for chemical use on durum wheat accounted for 88 percent of the durum wheat acreage planted in the United States.

The surveyed farmers applied nitrogen more widely than other fertilizers, applying it to nearly all durum and spring (excluding durum) wheat acres, and to 85 percent of winter wheat acres. Herbicides were the most extensively used pesticide, applied to 99 percent of durum wheat acres, 97 percent of spring (excluding durum) wheat acres, and 61 percent of winter wheat acres.



RFA Welcomes Energy Secretary Moniz

The Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) welcomes newly confirmed Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz. RFA’s President and CEO, Bob Dinneen, congratulated Secretary Moniz on his appointment, saying:  “Ethanol producers across this country congratulate Secretary Moniz on his appointment. President Obama, Secretary of Agriculture Vilsack and others in the Obama Administration have been enthusiastically supportive of ethanol and other biofuels over the years so we look forward to working with the Obama Administration’s newest team member. Given his background and expertise in energy, we look forward to the Secretary’s first visit to an ethanol plant. We are eager for him to see firsthand the positive economic impact the Renewable Fuel Standard has had in creating new jobs and revitalizing rural economies. We are anxious to introduce him to drivers who appreciate having fuel choices at the pump that save money and protect the environment. We believe Secretary Moniz, like the President, will recognize the power of ethanol to help make this nation more energy independent and less beholden to the whims of foreign governments in oil-rich countries. Again, welcome to Washington and to the Heartland of America, Secretary Moniz.”



Advanced Ethanol Council Congratulates Secretary Moniz
Brooke Coleman, Executive Director of the Advanced Ethanol Council, released the following statement today congratulating Secretary Moniz on his unanimous confirmation by the U.S. Senate.  She says,  “The advanced ethanol industry congratulates Secretary Moniz on his new appointment. Secretary Moniz has just the right combination of technical expertise and political experience to be very effective as the new Secretary of Energy. He clearly understands what it takes to commercialize new energy technologies, and we look forward to working with the Secretary and his colleagues going forward as the advanced ethanol industry deploys commercially in the United States and abroad.”



Smith Statement on House Committee Passage of a Farm Bill

Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) made the following statement regarding passage of H.R. 1947, the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act in the House Committee on Agriculture:  “Passage of a responsible, long-term Farm Bill is among my highest priorities and yesterday’s markup in the Agriculture Committee was a step in the right direction.  I look forward to reviewing the details of the bill passed by the committee and allowing the legislative process to work.  Given the importance of farm policy to our agriculture economy, it is critical we not only pass a bill, but also to ensure we get the policy right.”



Corn Growers Pleased to See House Ag Committee Progress on Farm Bill

National Corn Growers Association President Pam Johnson released the following statement in response to the House Committee on Agriculture’s farm bill passage late Wednesday night:

“We greatly appreciate the work by House Committee on Agriculture’s Chairman Frank Lucas, Ranking Member Collin Peterson and the Committee to move forward in the process to develop a five-year farm bill. NCGA is assessing similarities and differences between the legislation and our grower-developed policy.

“While we are pleased the process is moving forward, NCGA remains extremely concerned with the Committee’s decision to adopt a fixed-target-price program that moves U.S. farm policy away from the market-oriented reforms that have made possible a robust rural economy. It is also disappointing  the Committee failed to use this opportunity to ensure a Revenue Loss Coverage program that is a genuine risk management option for producers.

“We understand this is only the second step in a long process, and we do applaud the House Ag Committee for holding a markup. Now, we call upon Speaker John Boehner to quickly take up the bill in the full House. We look forward to our continued work with members and staff on this important piece of legislation and urge Congress to pass a farm bill this year.”



House Agriculture Committee Passes Farm Bill, ASA Calls on Full House to Bring Bill to the Floor

The American Soybean Association (ASA) applauds Chairman Frank Lucas, Ranking Member Collin Peterson and the members of the House Agriculture Committee for passing the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act earlier today. The bill, which passed the Committee on a 36 to 10 vote, will now head to the House floor for consideration. ASA President Danny Murphy, a soybean farmer from Canton, Miss., commended the Committee and called on the full House to pass the bill as quickly as possible.

“ASA is very pleased that the farm bill is moving forward, and we applaud Chairman Lucas and Ranking Member Peterson, as well as the entire Committee, for their work on the bill,” said Murphy. “The House bill contains several key ASA priorities including provisions to strengthen crop insurance and continue our overseas marketing programs. We remain concerned with the bill’s inclusion of a price-based program under which payments are tied to current plantings, and the potential planting distortions this program could cause if market prices fall. That said, we believe these differences can be ironed out, either on the House floor or in conference with the Senate.”

Murphy noted that ASA was particularly pleased that Rep. Bob Gibbs (R-Ohio) offered and spoke to an amendment that would have decoupled payments under the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program from current-year plantings in order to avoid production distortions. Rep. Gibbs made clear in his remarks that the PLC program, as included in the draft Committee bill, could distort plantings during periods of low prices, and he argued that all crops should be supported at a consistent level, based on market prices. In withdrawing his amendment, Rep. Gibbs made clear his intention to raise these issues again when the bill moves to the House floor.

“We appreciate Rep. Gibbs’ efforts to highlight the potential distortions that could result from a program based on target prices that are coupled to current-year plantings. The avoidance of such distortions has been a core ASA priority from the beginning, and we commend the Congressman for bringing up this concern during Committee markup.”

Rep. Gibbs was successful in including a second amendment that would require the Secretary of Agriculture to report annually on the impact of the PLC and Revenue Loss Coverage (RLC) programs on the planting, production, price, and export of commodities, as well as on the cost of these programs. ASA supported this provision as a means for monitoring Title 1 programs, particularly if payments based on high support levels are tied to current-year production, which could distort planting decisions.



Wheat Farmers Ready for Farm Bill Floor Action

A statement from National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) President Bing Von Bergen, a wheat farmer from Moccasin, Mont.:

"The leaders of the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) and the farmers we represent across the country are excited and grateful for the House and Senate Agriculture Committees' passage of farm bill legislation over the last two days.

"This farm bill has been a long time coming. The bills approved by both Committees are solid products crafted through discussion, debate and significant work on the parts of Members who know the importance of agriculture, the leaders of the Ag Committees and their dedicated staff.

"From all appearances, leaders in both the Senate and House are ready to move the farm bill to the floors of their chambers and across the finish line. Our top legislative priority is completing a long-term farm bill this year, and we stand ready to assist in their efforts to reach this goal."



NCBA on House Agriculture Committee Farm Bill

After a lengthy discussion, the House Agriculture Committee cleared its version of the 2013 Farm Bill during a markup session which ended late Wednesday night. The House markup follows the Senate Agriculture Committee’s much briefer markup of its farm bill Tuesday.

For the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), portions of the House farm bill included priorities important to cattlemen and women such as permanent disaster programs along with the elimination of the livestock title, maintaining of conservation programs and a strong research title. 

NCBA President Scott George, a Cody, Wyo. cattle and dairy producer, lauded the House Agriculture Committee for including disaster assistance in the legislation, stating that it would provide certainty to cattlemen and women who are affected by disastrous weather events and continue to contribute to the nation's strong agriculture industry.

“Farmers and ranchers endure extreme weather conditions - from drought to flood to freezes to the extreme heat – and still work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to provide the country and the world with food and fiber,” said George. “Including disaster assistance programs in the House farm bill is a positive step toward providing a strong safety net for our producers. We appreciate the work of Chairman Lucas and his committee on this important issue.”

Also included in the House version of the farm bill is an amendment introduced by Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa) that would prohibit states from setting production standards for foods brought in from other states. The amendment would render federal production mandates such as the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) / United Egg Producers (UEP) proposal, untenable.

“We are encouraged by the amendment introduced by Rep. King, which would keep decisions regarding how to raise livestock and poultry in the hands of farmers and ranchers, where they belong,” said George. “NCBA is supportive of the House version of the farm bill and we hope that both the full House and Senate take up their respective bills soon and continue to move forward with passing a 2013 Farm Bill which is positive for cattle producers and gives rural America much needed certainty.”



Total Farm Safety Net Spending Drops By Two-Thirds as More Farmers Purchase Crop Insurance
(from Farm Policy Facts)

Total government spending on farm safety net programs – including all commodity programs and crop insurance – dropped by two-thirds from fiscal years 2000 to 2012, according to data provided by USDA and the Congressional Budget Office. The reduction took place as spending on commodity programs – including direct, counter-cyclical, loan deficiency and other payments which once represented the lion’s share of safety net spending – has been slowly phased down in favor of crop insurance, which is partially self-funded through farmer premiums and farmer deductibles. 

In 2000, nearly $28 billion was spent on commodity programs and less than $3 billion on crop insurance. Over the course of 12 years, the overall amount of spending slowly but consistently fell and commodity spending and crop insurance spending equalized. In 2012, total farm safety net spending was $10 billion, and was split equally between the two.

During the same period, while spending on farm safety net programs dropped precipitously, the value of crop sales more than doubled, from roughly $93 billion in 2000 to nearly $220 billion in 2012. This exponential growth in crop values was cited by the Federal Reserve as one of the brightspots that brought the country out of the long recession, by bolstering rural America as well as giving a strong shot in the arm to U.S. exports. 

Moving forward over the next two years, crop insurance spending will be up in 2013, due to the 2012 drought, but still small in comparison to past disasters.  Beyond that, USDA projections show spending on commodity programs (even before sequestration and farm bill cuts) will remain flat at $5 billion, while crop insurance spending will decline from the 2013 level.    The Farm Bills proposed by both the House and the Senate will cut an additional roughly 10 percent from commodity programs and crop insurance.



NCBA Statement on Reauthorization of the Animal Drug User Fee Act

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) President Scott George, a Cody, Wyo. dairy and beef producer, issued the following statement on yesterday’s action by the House Energy and Commerce Committee on reauthorization of the Animal Drug User Fee Act (ADUFA):

“Cattlemen and women rely on new and innovative animal health products, and for that reason the reauthorization of ADUFA has been one of the NCBA’s key priorities this year. I am pleased to see the House Energy and Commerce Committee pass ADUFA reauthorization yesterday by a voice vote and look for the full House to consider reauthorization shortly.”

On May 8, 2013, the Senate passed ADUFA re-authorization by unanimous consent.



FSA Administrator Urges Producers to Enroll in DCP/ACRE

USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Juan M. Garcia today encouraged farmers and ranchers to enroll for the 2013 Direct and Counter-Cyclical Payment Program (DCP) or the Average Crop Revenue Election Program (ACRE) before the deadline. Producers who wait until the last minute to sign up could face increased waiting time in FSA county offices.

“We understand that producers have gotten busy, but they can’t forget to visit their county office and sign up for DCP or ACRE,” said Garcia. “Just as farmers and ranchers plan their spring plantings, producers should plan to schedule an appointment to visit their USDA Service Center at the earliest possible time. It’s best to complete the paperwork now rather than to stand in line the day before the deadline,” advised Garcia.

The sign-up for both programs began Feb. 19, 2013. The deadline to sign up for ACRE is June 3, 2013. The DCP sign up period ends Aug. 2, 2013.

The 2013 DCP and ACRE program provisions are unchanged from 2012, except that all eligible participants in 2013 may choose to enroll in either DCP or ACRE for the 2013 crop year. This means that eligible producers who were enrolled in ACRE in 2012 may elect to enroll in DCP in 2013 or may re-enroll in ACRE in 2013 (and vice versa).

For more information about the programs and loans administered by FSA, visit any FSA county office or www.fsa.usda.gov.



New Report Outlines Corn Ethanol's Ever-Improving GHG Reduction Benefits

Ethanol not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to petroleum but continues to steadily improve upon the levels at which it does so, according to a report released by Dr. Steffen Mueller of the University of Illinois at Chicago's Energy Resources Center. In his study findings, which are now available online, Mueller outlines how ethanol has helped the Renewable Fuel Standard meet its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and, due to a uniquely high rate of innovation and technology adoption in the ethanol industry, continues to improve the level of greenhouse gas emission reductions offered by this renewable, sustainable biofuel.

The report, "Corn Ethanol: Emerging Plant Energy and Environmental Technologies," comes from a study funded by the National Corn Growers Association's Ethanol Committee, the Illinois Corn Growers Association and Monsanto with research assistance provided by the Renewable Fuels Association. Using the data outlined in the paper, NCGA will submit comments on the impact of the Renewable Fuel Standard to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce in response to their third white paper, "Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Other Environmental Impacts."

"The study findings are exciting, but they do not come as a surprise to those who have been involved with the ethanol industry for any significant amount of time," said NCGA Ethanol Committee Chair Chad Willis. "Every day, we see concrete improvements to the technology and practices used to make ethanol and to the final product we provide for America's driving public. While ethanol already offers a renewable, environmentally responsible fuel alternative, we still strive to continually find even better ways to improve and grow a greener energy future."

The report answers specific questions about the environmental impacts of ethanol use under the RFS and shows that, even when potential indirect land use change emissions are considered for ethanol, today's average corn-based ethanol does reduce GHG emissions compared to petroleum.

Using more contemporary feedstock production data from the USDA to update the Argonne National Laboratory's GREET model which calculates GHG emissions, the researchers found that ethanol reduces GHG emissions by 19 to 48 percent compared to gasoline. Furthermore, when ILUC emissions are excluded, average corn ethanol reduces GHG emissions by 29 to 57 percent relative to gasoline.

The study also shows that the RFS is encouraging development of even lower greenhouse gas emitting fuels and has had a positive impact on the adoption of new technologies that accomplish this goal at existing corn-ethanol plants. Substantiating this statement, the report outlines how, on average, dry grind plants produce ethanol at higher yields with lower energy inputs in 2012 than they did in 2008. Not only have yields already increased, continued adaptation of new technologies, which is helped in part by the more tangible incentives and also the market certainty provided by the RFS, will allow the industry to build upon the gains already in place.



RFA and Growth Energy File a Complaint Luxembourg Court to End the Duty on U.S. Ethanol

Today, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) and Growth Energy filed a complaint with the General Court in Luxembourg challenging the European Union’s (EU) decision to impose a 9.6 percent antidumping duty on all ethanol imported from the United States.

The complaint outlines 10 specific violations of one established trade law committed by the European Commission in its investigation of anti-dumping claims, and the imposition of a country-wide anti-dumping penalty, against all U.S. ethanol. These include errors in the assessment of relevant facts in determining injury and dumping margins as well as violations of the EU’s own rules regarding the implementation of anti-dumping penalties, such as their refusal to calculate individual dumping margins and assign individual dumping duties, their incomplete and inaccurate calculation of an alleged injury margin, and their overstatement of the volume of imports from the U.S. The complaint from RFA and Growth Energy requests the complete and total end of the duty.

“We believe the implementation of an EU duty on imported ethanol violates EU law and we are proactively taking our case to the General Court in Luxembourg,” said Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy.

RFA and Growth Energy are trying to remedy the situation through other avenues as well. EU’s determination to impose the duty violates various requirements put in place by the World Trade Organization (WTO). Consequently, RFA and Growth Energy are working with appropriate officials in the United States to pursue a challenge before the WTO.

Earlier this month, 14 Senators signed a bipartisan letter to Acting Commerce Secretary Rebecca Blank and Acting U.S. Trade Representative Demetrios Marantis demanding that the Administration carefully evaluate the EU’s decision to impose a duty on imported ethanol and consider challenging the WTO requirements.

“We believe this duty violates well established international anti-dumping law, and we are going to pursue every challenge available to us.  Whether it is a private challenge in Luxembourg or a challenge at the World Trade Organization, we are going to fight this illegal ruling to the end, and we are going to win,” said Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association.



Japanese Milling Executives Complete Wheat Industry Tour
Julia Debes, USW Assistant Director of Communications

Japan consistently imports more U.S. wheat than any other country, averaging more than 3.21 MMT (118 million bushels) per year for the past five years. Japanese millers, however, are concerned as much with quality as quantity when it comes to the wheat they use.

As part of long-term marking efforts to demonstrate the continued reliability, quality and value of U.S. wheat, USW brought five milling executives to the United States May 1 to 7 for a personal look at this year’s crop potential in North Dakota and to talk trade policy and market developments with U.S. agricultural organizations in Washington, DC.

“These visits to the United States give milling executives more insight and perspective into U.S. wheat’s value,” said USW Japan County Director Wataru “Charlie” Utsunomiya, who accompanied the team. “They also reinforce the strong relationship built between Japanese millers and U.S. wheat farmers, which started in 1949 when the Oregon Wheat Growers League organized the first trade delegation to Japan.”

Today, Japan typically accounts for roughly 10 percent of all U.S. wheat exports, importing significant amounts of HRW, HRS and SW wheat. As of May 2, Japan has purchased 3.69 MMT (135.5 million bushels) of wheat so far this marketing year.

Trade team participants, however, are already looking forward to the upcoming crop. While in North Dakota, the team received an outlook on possible acreage, growing conditions and prices for HRS wheat, even though weather has delayed planting, in addition to meeting directly with wheat farmers.

“The team met with three of our producer board members, which I think is a highlight of these trade teams,” Erica Olson, marketing specialist with the North Dakota Wheat Commission, said. “The buyers get to meet directly with the person who grows the product they buy and our producers get the opportunity to assure them that they are committed to growing the best quality wheat possible. This open dialogue gives everyone a chance to discuss the questions or concerns they may have.”

Olson also said that meeting with researchers at North Dakota State University provided team members with a better understanding of how spring wheat varieties are developed, including how researchers work to meet quality targets. The team also gained more knowledge of the elevator system and the economics of farm production.

USW worked with the North Dakota Wheat Commission to organize this year’s team in addition to collaborating with the North American Millers’ Association, the North American Export Grain Association, the Northern Crops Institute and other industry organizations.



Trade Teams Open Doors for the International Wheat Market
Brittney Fund, USW Communications Intern

Japan’s consistent ranking as one of the largest buyers of U.S. wheat is a great example of what can be achieved by building a strong relationship with overseas markets (see story above) — but Japan is not the only country whose partnership with U.S. wheat farmers has been strengthened through trade teams. Several other trade teams will visit the United States this summer and early fall to gain insight into crop conditions, learn more about U.S. grain production and marketing systems and discuss policy issues.

Trade team visits to the United States are a vital part of building and sustaining a relationship with international wheat buyers. Combined with local trade servicing and support from USW representatives, trade team visits help validate the United States’ position as the world’s most reliable choice for wheat. The planning begins months before the teams’ arrival — but the impact lasts much longer.

For example, U.S. wheat growers have established a strong relationship with Nigerian flour millers and pasta manufacturers through trade teams. Nigerian millers consistently use the United States as a preferred source for about 90 percent of their wheat needs. The partnership can only grow stronger this year when a Nigerian trade team meets with wheat industry leaders in Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska from June 1 to 12 to discuss future production levels of all U.S. wheat classes and the potential for new wheat varieties.

None of these trade team visits would be possible without the continued support from our state wheat commission member organizations and USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) market development programs. In June alone, trade teams from Ecuador, Korea and Israel will make the journey to the United States to meet with U.S. wheat producers, breeders and exporters, hosted by several state commissions. Additionally, teams from Kenya, China, South Africa, the Philippines, Costa Rica, Taiwan and Europe are also scheduled before the end of September.

Nebraska Cattlemen Kick Off 125th Anniversary Celebrations with Midyear Meeting

125 years of beef leadership will be celebrated at the Nebraska Cattlemen Midyear meeting June 18th – 19th in Valentine Nebraska. 2013 is the 125th anniversary of Nebraska Cattlemen and NC President Dale Spencer is excited to invite all to attend this historic event.

“Our Midyear meeting is a great opportunity for members to shape policy and provide direction for leadership and staff,” said Spencer. “It will also be an excellent time for people to come together and celebrate the beef industry and the historic impact Nebraska Cattlemen has had over the past 125 years.”

Tuesday, June 18th will begin with the Board of Directors meetings, then an afternoon of golf, Niobrara River tubing, and area tours. Also, the Nebraska Cattlewomen will be hosting the 2013 Beef Ambassador Contest. In the evening there will be a welcome reception at The Prairie Club in Valentine where award winning photographer Bill Ganzel will shoot a historic panoramic photo of all attendees in honor of the 125th anniversary of Nebraska Cattlemen.

Wednesday, June 19th will begin with registration at 7:00 a.m. followed by three sets of committee meetings and the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation lunch. As in years past the six committees will be meeting to discuss issues and policy relative to their respective areas. The Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation will hold their annual lunch to announce the Retail Value Steer Challenge results as well as recognize the recipients of this year’s youth scholarships. Also during the lunch, two 28 ton loads of Synergy will be auctioned off with funds supporting the University of Nebraska Foundation Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory Fund.

The general session on Wednesday evening will include a panel of Nebraska Stock Growers Association, Nebraska Livestock Feeder and Nebraska Cattlemen Presidents who will recall and discuss history of key events and issues addressed in the first 125 years of Nebraska Cattlemen’s history. John Carter, Nebraska State Historical Society senior research historian and a collaborator on NET’s movie The Beef State, will moderate the session.

As of May 15th those sponsoring the Nebraska Cattlemen Midyear meeting include: Agri Affiliates, Inc., AgriLabs, Amarillo Brokerage Company, Bills Volume Sales, Cappel Sales, Inc., Crossroads Cattle Company, DAR PRO Solutions, Elanco, Farm Credit Services of America, Gallagher Grace Mayer, Merck Animal Health, NMC Cat, Valentine Livestock Auction Company, Wells Fargo Bank N.A, and Zoetis.  If you are interested in sponsoring this year's event contact Lee Weide at the Nebraska Cattlemen office.

For more information or to register go to www.nebraskacattlemen.org or call the Nebraska Cattlemen office at 402.475.2333



New Director Hired for Great Plains Veterinary Educational Center

A longtime faculty member has been named director of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Great Plains Veterinary Educational Center at Clay Center.  Dr. Dale Grotelueschen, most recently the managing veterinarian for beef cattle veterinary operations at Pfizer/Zoetis, will assume the position July 1. Grotelueschen was a UNL faculty member for a number of years, including a stint as director of the Panhandle Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in Scottsbluff.  Grotelueschen is active in organizations including the Nebraska Veterinary Medical Association, American Veterinary Medical Association, National Cattlemen's Beef Association and Nebraska Cattlemen. 



Interns chosen for Nebraska Corn Board programs

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) is proud to select and support five college students as interns starting this summer.

Four of the five interns will be hosted by national cooperators of NCB: National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) in St. Louis, MO and Washington, D.C., the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) in Washington, D.C. and the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) in Denver, CO. The internship program in the NCB office in Lincoln is a year-long internship and has been engaging students for over 25 years.

“The cooperators of the Corn Board are very pleased with the college student interns that come out of Nebraska, which is why they are requested year after year,” said Don Hutchens, executive director for the Nebraska Corn Board. “Our board has observed the educational and career advantages that internships provide and consider internships as an investment into Nebraska’s agricultural future. Plus, it is great work experience for these Nebraska students.”

The NCB office in Lincoln welcomed Lauren Ibach of Sumner, Neb. for a year-long internship. Lauren will be a junior in agriculture education at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. As part of her internship, she will oversee crop progress report placement, contribute to communication and outreach programs and help with education and promotion activities.

The National Corn Growers Association office in Washington, D.C. will host Kyle McGinn of Lincoln, Neb. as their summer intern supported by a partnership between NCB and NCGA. Kyle is a student in at the University of Nebraska-College of Law. He will be involved with a variety of agricultural issues related to environmental regulations, transportation, free trade agreements, biotechnology, ethanol and energy.

The National Corn Growers Association headquarters office in St. Louis, Mo. will host Casey Campbell of Santa Fe, New Mexico as their summer intern supported by a partnership between NCB and NCGA. Casey will be a junior in agricultural education at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. She will be assisting with membership and communication programs, as well as participating in committee meetings.

The U.S. Grains Council will host Bryce Vaughn of Alliance, Neb. as their summer intern supported by a partnership between NCB and USGC. Bryce is a senior in agriculture economics with a focus in public policy and a minor in international studies at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. He will be working with policy, assisting with international trade teams and helping to develop promotions and international relations.

The U.S. Meat Export Federation will host Michael Chao of Lincoln, Neb. as their summer intern supported by a partnership between NCB and USMEF.  Michael is a graduate student in meat science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He will be assisting with beef and pork specific projects, as well as promotions and international relationship opportunities.



IPPA Seeking Producer Award Nominations

The Iowa Pork Producers Association is seeking nominations for the 2013 Master Pork Producer and Environmental Steward awards.

The Iowa Master Pork Producer Award program began in 1942 and is a joint effort between IPPA and Iowa State University Extension to recognize Iowa pork producers who show expertise in their segment of the production cycle, understand current industry issues and demonstrate the ethical principles of pork production as outlined in the We Care responsible pork initiative.

The Iowa Environmental Steward Award recognizes producers who go above and beyond in environmental stewardship. Nominees are reviewed in the areas of soil and water conservation, air quality, community & neighbor relations, wildlife habitat and other production innovations. 

Nomination forms and instructions for both award programs can be accessed at iowapork.org or by contacting IPPA directly. Nominations must be received by August 19 for consideration.

Both award programs follow the core principles of the pork industry’s We Care responsible pork initiative to produce safe food, protect and promote animal well-being, protect public health, safeguard natural resources, provide a safe work environment and contribute to a better quality of life in our communities.

All award recipients will be recognized at the 2014 Iowa Pork Congress in January and be highlighted in IPPA publications and at industry events. In addition, the Environmental Steward Award recipient will receive a $1,000 cash award and be nominated for the National Pork Industry Environmental Steward Award sponsored by the National Pork Board and National Hog Farmer.

“Iowa’s pork producers represent some of the most efficient, innovative and adaptive in the industry,” said Tyler Bettin, IPPA producer education director. “It is important that we continue to recognize the efforts of our best and brightest producers. Doing this demonstrates to consumers our commitment to the environment and production of safe food while also educating other producers of best management practices and industry opportunities.”

For additional information regarding Master Pork Producer and Environmental Steward Award programs, please contact Tyler Bettin at (800) 372-7675 or tbettin@iowapork.org.



ASA Welcomes Senate Passage of Waterways Bill

With a vote of 83 to 14 this morning, the Senate overwhelmingly passed the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), a move cheered by the American Soybean Association (ASA), whose members rely on a healthy waterways infrastructure to move their soybeans to market.

“Improving and investing in our waterways infrastructure is vital to the U.S. soybean industry,” said ASA President and Canton, Miss., soybean farmer Danny Murphy. “With more than half of our crop exported, soybean farmers depend on an efficient transportation system to remain competitive in global markets. We face stiff global competition from many countries, and our ability to get our products quickly and efficiently to market is one of the aspects that sets our industry apart from those competitors. We simply cannot afford to ignore the needs of that infrastructure. We welcome the Senate’s overwhelming support of these priorities as evidenced by the vote today and call on the House to pass the bill quickly.”

S. 601 includes provisions supported by ASA to annually increase the amount of funding that is provided from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) for port maintenance and dredging; to streamline the process for Corps of Engineers projects and reduce project completion times; and to free up money and increase the capacity of the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) by taking the Olmsted Lock and Dam project out of the trust fund account.

Additionally, ASA was pleased that the Senate unanimously adopted an amendment to S. 601 offered by Sens. Mark Pryor (D-Ark.) and James Inhofe (R-Okla.) to exempt certain farms that store oil in aboveground tanks from federal oil spill regulations. The amendment would set storage tank thresholds below which agricultural operations would be excluded from U.S. EPA's Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure Rule (SPCC).

“While ASA supports additional measures not included in S. 601 to increase revenues for the IWTF and establish alternative financing mechanisms in order to provide more money to address inland waterways infrastructure projects,” added Murphy, “we appreciate the significant progress that is made by S. 601 and we look forward to continuing work with Congress to achieve enactment of a final WRDA in 2013.”



NCBA Statement on Failure of Clean Water Act Amendment Passage in the Senate

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Deputy Environmental Counsel Ashley McDonald issued the following statement on the non-passage of Amendment 868 to the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) which would have prevented the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) from finalizing the Clean Water Act (CWA) jurisdictional guidance document:

“Unfortunately the Senate failed to pass an important piece of legislation, introduced by Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), which would have stopped an overreaching jurisdictional guidance by the EPA and Corps which attempts to federalize all waters. That guidance is at the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and could come out in final form any day.

“It is a tragedy that those who voted against this amendment refuse to recognize the devastating effect this guidance will have on farmers and ranchers across the country. If finalized, it would be the biggest federal land-grab in history, requiring cattlemen to apply for permits to conduct everyday activity such as cleaning out a ditch.

“Congress, to date, has refused to clarify what constitutes a ‘water of the United States,’ despite the Supreme Court’s multiple calls to do so. Without such clarification, the Obama administration has taken great liberty in crafting guidance that through ambiguous and ill-defined terms allows EPA to claim that any water body is a ‘water of the U.S.’

“This administration has taken the phrase ‘what you can’t legislate, regulate’ to new heights. Their current interpretation of what constitutes a ‘water of the U.S.’ is not only incorrect based on Supreme Court precedent, but flies in the face of the CWA’s plain language. Although the Senate failed to address this extremely important issue, NCBA hopes that at some point Congress will start to do its job and clarify the jurisdictional limits to the CWA.”



Supporting Senate Ag Committee's Farm Bill Passage
Tom Harkin (D), U.S. Senator from Iowa

This legislation is a balanced, bipartisan bill that continues critical work for food, agriculture, energy and rural programs while reducing federal spending. I am very pleased that this bill extends essential programs and includes substantial reforms, such as eliminating direct payments and replacing them with a new revenue-based program -- a measure that evolved from the Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) program that I worked to include in the 2008 farm bill. The legislation also builds upon reforms in recent farm bills to strengthen and tighten payment limitations, while strengthening the crop insurance program and making it more beneficial to farmers.

I am also encouraged that the bill provides funding to improve and strengthen critical conservation programs, including the Conservation Stewardship Program and other initiatives that I have strongly supported. While funding for conservation was reduced from previous farm bill levels, we were able to limit the extent of the budget reductions with the help of Chairwoman Stabenow and Ranking Member Cochran. In addition, I expect significant gains in conservation after the momentous agreement between the farming and conservation communities that requires farmers to meet minimum conservation requirements in order to receive federal crop insurance premium subsidies.

I am pleased that this bill continues funding for initiatives from past farm bills that provides fresh fruits and vegetables to schools across the country. I regret, however, that this legislation reduces funding for nutrition assistance to low-income Americans and am eager to work with the chair of the committee to mitigate cuts to nutrition assistance programs as the legislative process moves forward.

All in all, this is a strong bipartisan bill. Congress should pass this farm bill quickly to continue to assist farmers and consumers, while making investments in rural communities, agriculture, food, and conservation programs that benefit Iowans and all Americans.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 5/10/2013

According to EIA data, ethanol production averaged 857,000 barrels per day (b/d) — or 35.99 million gallons daily. That is up 14,000 b/d from the week before and tied for highest of the year. The four-week average for ethanol production stood at 853,000 b/d for an annualized rate of 13.08 billion gallons.

Stocks of ethanol stood at 16.4 million barrels. That is a 2.5% decrease from last week and the lowest since at least the week ending 11/04/2011. Stocks dropped below a 20-day supply (based on average blender/refiner input.)

For the fifth time in six weeks, imports of ethanol were zero b/d. Imports were unchanged from last week.

Gasoline demand for the week averaged 350.3 million gallons daily.

Expressed as a percentage of daily gasoline demand, daily ethanol production was 10.27% — the highest since the first week of the year.

On the co-products side, ethanol producers were using 12.994 million bushels of corn to produce ethanol and 95,644 metric tons of livestock feed, 85,267 metric tons of which were distillers grains. The rest is comprised of corn gluten feed and corn gluten meal. Additionally, ethanol producers were providing 4.46 million pounds of corn oil daily.



Oil Rallies to a Higher Close

(AP) -- The price of oil rose back above $94 Wednesday after dropping earlier on disappointing economic reports from Europe and the U.S.  Benchmark oil for June delivery was up 9 cents to finish at $94.30 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. It fell as low as $92.13 in the morning before rising in tandem with U.S. stock markets.

Recently the stock market and, to a lesser degree, the oil market have shrugged off reports of sluggish economic growth, because it suggests that the Federal Reserve will keep pumping money into financial markets.

New figures released Wednesday showed the eurozone's economy continued to contract in the first quarter, keeping it in recession for a sixth consecutive quarter. And a report in the U.S. showed factories cut back sharply on production in April, suggesting economic growth may be slowing this spring.  That dreary economic news initially overshadowed the latest data from the Energy Department showing that oil supplies declined unexpectedly last week.

Crude supplies declined by 600,000 barrels, or 0.2 percent, to 394.9 million barrels, in the week ended May 10. Analysts expected an increase of 300,000 barrels. Still, demand for gasoline and distillates such as diesel remain below year-ago levels.



B100 to Fuel Pulling Tractors

A partnership between U.S. soybean farmers and the National Tractor Pullers Association (NTPA) will reach another milestone Friday when the NTPA begins allowing the use of 100 percent biodiesel, in all diesel pulling classes for this season.

This is the seventh season the soy checkoff has partnered with the NTPA to promote the use of biodiesel to pulling fans, including many farmers, truck drivers and other diesel users.

A study funded by the state soy checkoff board in Minnesota and conducted by United Pullers of Minnesota found using biodiesel in pulling competition can provide a 4 percent increase in torque and horsepower.

"Performance results like these are an added bonus to the environmental and economic benefits of using biodiesel," says Larry Marek, soy checkoff farmer-leader and a soybean farmer from Riverside, Iowa. "If NTPA pullers can get these kinds of results on the track, we can certainly get great results using B100 on the farm."

Also returning to the track this season will be the "Powered by Biodiesel," Light Pro Stock class, in which all competitors are required to use biodiesel blends.

"B100 performs well, and is dependable even in the most excruciating tests," says Gregg Randall, NTPA office general manager. "Pullers will definitely want to take advantage of the fuel this pulling season."

Biodiesel is known as America's Advanced Biofuel because it reduces greenhouse-gas emissions by at least 50 percent compared with petroleum diesel. It offers excellent horsepower, mileage and cetane, and adds as much as 65 percent lubricity to an engine.

The soy checkoff funds biodiesel research and promotion efforts through the National Biodiesel Board to help increase the use of U.S. soy oil. Soy oil remains the dominant feedstock for U.S. biodiesel production.



4 MLB teams welcome FFA members, families, alumni, supporters to series of FFA Day at the Ballpark games this summer

The National FFA Organization has partnered with four Major League Baseball teams for FFA Day at the Ballpark events this summer.  FFA Day with the Kansas City Royals is Sunday, June 23, against Chicago. FFA Day with the Pittsburgh Pirates is Sunday, June 30, vs. Milwaukee. FFA Day with the St. Louis Cardinals is Sunday, Aug. 11, vs. the Chicago Cubs and FFA Day with the Cincinnati Reds is Sunday, Aug. 25, against Milwaukee.

All four MLB teams are offering FFA members, their families and friends, teachers, FFA alumni and FFA supporters specially discounted tickets to attend the game. Through attendance, local FFA members’ participation in stadium activities, special messaging at each game and appearances by National FFA Organization mascot Flyte the Owl, the National FFA Organization hopes to raise awareness about FFA to large and diverse audiences.

A portion of ticket proceeds sold for the Royals, Cardinals and Reds games will directly benefit Kansas FFA, Missouri FFA and Ohio FFA, respectively. In Pittsburgh, the team will offer a replica Roberto Clemente Pirates jersey or a replica Pirates hat to FFA members and supporters depending on their ticket selection.

“The support, level of engagement and willingness to share what today’s FFA is all about that we’ve received from the Kansas City Royals, Pittsburgh Pirates, St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds organizations has been outstanding,” said Duane Brodt, public relations manager at the National FFA Organization. “Combined, we have the opportunity to put FFA in front of more than 150,000 Major League Baseball fans this summer and raise awareness about FFA, have thousands of conversations about the importance of our organization to share what we do throughout the country and engage our members, their teachers and loved ones, our alumni and our supporters.”

FFA members and supporters who are Royals, Pirates, Cardinals and Reds fans can visit the MLB page on the National FFA Organization's website for more information about each of the FFA Day at the Ballpark games and buy specially discounted tickets.




Deere Announces Record Second-Quarter Earnings of $1.084 Billion

Net income attributable to Deere & Company was $1.084 billion, or $2.76 per share, for the second quarter ended April 30, compared with $1.056 billion, or $2.61 per share, for the same period last year.  For the first six months of the year, net income attributable to Deere & Company was $1.734 billion, or $4.41 per share, compared with $1.589 billion, or $3.91 per share, last year.

Worldwide net sales and revenues increased 9 percent, to $10.914 billion, for the second quarter and rose 9 percent to $18.335 billion for six months. Net sales of the equipment operations were $10.265 billion for the quarter and $17.058 billion for six months, compared with $9.405 billion and $15.524 billion for the periods last year.

"After a record-setting second quarter, John Deere is well on its way to another year of strong performance," said Samuel R. Allen, chairman and chief executive officer. Second-quarter sales and income were the highest for any quarterly period in company history, he pointed out. "Deere's results are a reflection of positive conditions in the global farm economy, which continues to show impressive strength. The company's performance also offers further proof of the adept execution of our operating and marketing plans, which are aimed at expanding our global market presence."

Summary of Operations
Net sales of the worldwide equipment operations increased 9 percent for the quarter and 10 percent for six months compared with the same periods a year ago. Sales included price realization of 3 percent for the quarter and year to date and an unfavorable currency-translation effect of 2 percent for the quarter and 1 percent for six months. Equipment net sales in the United States and Canada increased 9 percent for the quarter and 13 percent year to date. Outside the U.S. and Canada, net sales increased 9 percent for the quarter and 6 percent for six months, with unfavorable currency-translation effects of 4 percent and 3 percent for the periods.

Deere's equipment operations reported operating profit of $1.663 billion for the quarter and $2.500 billion for six months, compared with $1.522 billion and $2.220 billion last year. The improvement for both periods was due primarily to the impact of price realization and higher shipment volumes. These factors were partially offset by increased production costs and higher selling, administrative and general expenses as well as unfavorable effects of foreign-currency exchange. The higher production costs were related primarily to manufacturing overhead expenses in support of growth and new products, engine-emission requirements, and postretirement benefit expenses. These items were partially offset by lower raw-material costs. In addition, higher warranty costs and research and development expenses affected year-to-date results.

Net income of the company's equipment operations was $953 million for the second quarter and $1.478 billion for the first six months, compared with $947 million and $1.362 billion in 2012. The operating factors mentioned above, along with a higher effective tax rate and increased interest expense, affected both quarterly and year-to-date results.

Financial services reported net income attributable to Deere & Company of $125.0 million for the quarter and $257.9 million for six months compared with $109.2 million and $228.3 million last year. Results were higher for both periods primarily due to growth in the credit portfolio, partially offset by increased selling, administrative and general expenses. In addition, last year's six-month results benefited from revenue related to wind energy credits.



Horse and Burro Coalition Statement on NBC’s Wild Horse Stories

The National Horse & Burro Rangeland Management Coalition issues the following statement in response to two stories released by NBC News today on wild horses:

“Recent stories by NBC News (Today Show: Wild horses: Endangered animals or menace, and Cruel or necessary? and NBCNews.com: The true cost of wild horse roundups) portray only select facts and a narrow part of the reality surrounding wild horses and burros on the western range.

While regarded by many as icons of the American West, free-roaming horses and burros are in fact non-native species that threaten rangelands and native plant and animal species. But managed at appropriate population levels, wild horses and burros are not a “menace,” even to those with whom the range is shared. Nor is it accurate in any way to call wild horses and burros “endangered.” In fact, the problem is an overpopulation of horses and burros in and beyond many herd management areas. It is inaccurate for these reports to depict only healthy horses or rangelands. While this exists, so do unhealthy horses and degraded range. Finally, considering the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the Federal agency tasked with managing most of the wild horses and burros in the West, has gathered tens of thousands of horses over the past decades, it is an unfair portrayal of those gathers to focus on a few instances of potentially inappropriate gather methods. While not perfect, the BLM works hard to maintain humane gather methods.

The BLM faces a daunting task. Current herd sizes, which greatly exceed manageable levels, stand to jeopardize other multiple uses called for by law; they do so by trampling vegetation, hardpacking the soil, and over-grazing. Current overpopulation of horses and burros on the range results in great suffering for the animals, many of which are dying of thirst or starvation. Other multiple uses that depend on healthy rangelands are suffering as well. Despite protection under the law, for example, BLM reports that since horses and burros became protected in 1971, ranching families have seen livestock grazing decline by 30 percent on BLM lands. Meanwhile, the horse population is 42 percent above the scientifically-determined Appropriate Management Level (AML) – which is the population size that BLM can graze without causing ecological damage to rangeland resources. More than 37,000 wild horses currently reside on the range, over 11,000 more than the west-wide AML of 26,500 individuals. Without management, horse and burro herds can double in size every four to five years.

The Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971 was enacted to protect “wild, free-roaming” horses and burros, as well as guide their management as part of the natural system on BLM and U.S. Forest Service lands in the western United States. The Act requires those agencies to maintain a “thriving natural ecological balance” and protect existing rights on those lands, based on the principle of multiple-use. The Act, as amended, also authorizes the agencies to use or contract for the use of helicopters and motorized vehicles for the purpose of managing horses and burros. This aids BLM to reach AML. When AML is not reached, the animals and other multiple uses, such as wildlife habitat and livestock grazing, are negatively impacted.

Appropriate, scientifically sound management of wild horses and burros on the range is in the interests of all those who care about the health of the animals, the sustainability of the range and the well-being of the rural communities in the west. The NBC stories unfortunately neglect to address these legitimate issues and provide an incomplete picture of the challenges facing policymakers, ranchers, and the conservation community.

For the sake of animal welfare and multiple-use—and in keeping with the Act—the Coalition supports actions that will bring herd sizes in line with AMLs, and emphasizes the following positions:
-    The Coalition appreciates BLM’s efforts to find ways to reduce reproduction rates, increase adoptions and otherwise find solutions to a problem that continues to burden the BLM, taxpayers, and ranchers and create concerns for the welfare of horses and burros and the health of wildlife and the habitats on which they depend. About 70 percent of the total program budget ($74.9 million) is currently being spent on the over 50,000 horses and burros being held in corrals and pastures. These levels are unsustainable. We support innovative strategies such as adjusting sex-ratios, and we encourage more research into effective fertility control treatments. Aside from population suppression, offering trained animals for adoption is important to increase demand for excess horses and burros. We encourage cost-effective initiatives to partner with entities such as universities, prisons and the Mustang Heritage Foundation.
-    The Coalition applauds the BLM’s implementation of humane handling and holding practices. BLM is now supplementing their already-sound practices with a new Comprehensive Animal Welfare Program. As reported by the American Association of Equine Practitioners in 2011, BLM’s “care, handling and management practices” are “appropriate for this population of horses and generally support the safety, health status and welfare of the animals.”
-    The Coalition believes horses and burros should continue to be cared for in a humane manner both on and off the range; integral to this goal is managing herd populations at scientifically determined AMLs and removing old and injured animals. Management decisions should be science-based and increase the ability of rangelands to support healthy horse and burro herds along with other multiple uses, including sustaining native plant and wildlife communities and livestock grazing.

The rangeland resource should be managed for multiple-use in accordance with the law and the land’s scientifically proven capability to accommodate a variety of uses, including the presence of horses and burros and the biodiversity of the landscape. The consistent application of sound science and economics in relation to animal and rangeland management should be used throughout the horse and burro program.”

The coalition is a diverse partnership of 13 wildlife, conservation and sportsmen organizations, industry partners, and professional natural-resource scientific societies working together to identify proactive and comprehensive solutions to increase effective management of horse and burro populations and mitigate the adverse impacts to healthy native fish, wildlife, and plants and the ecosystems on which they depend(American Farm Bureau Federation • Masters of Foxhounds Association • Mule Deer Foundation • National Association of Conservation Districts • National Cattlemen’s Beef Association • National Rifle Association • National Wildlife Refuge Association • Public Lands Council • Public Lands Foundation • Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation • Safari Club International • Society for Range Management • The Wildlife Society). For more information, visit www.wildhorserange.org.



USDA Inspector General Reveals Food Safety Breakdowns At Hog Plants Using Privatized Inspection Model

In an audit report released on May 14, 2013, the USDA’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) found major problems with the food safety record of plants participating in an inspection pilot program where most of the inspection responsibilities are turned over to company-paid employees. The pilot is part of the HACCP-based Inspection Models Project (HIMP) in hog slaughter being conducted by the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS). In the report, the OIG stated:

“We…found that FSIS could not determine whether the goals of a pilot program – Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)–based Inspection Models Project (HIMP) – were met because FSIS did not adequately oversee the program. In the 15 years since the program’s inception, FSIS did not critically assess whether the new inspection process had measurably improved food safety at each HIMP plant, a key goal of the program…Although HIMP was intended to improve food safety, we found that 3 of the 10 plants with the most (non-compliance reports) NRs from FYs 2008 to 2011 were HIMP plants. In fact, the swine plant with the most NRs during this timeframe was a HIMP plant – with nearly 50 percent more NRs than the plant with the next highest number.”

Even though the OIG found these major deficiencies in the HIMP program, USDA officials have indicated that they plan to expand the privatized model to all swine slaughter plants in the near future.

In 2012, USDA announced a proposal to privatize inspection in most poultry facilities even though serious food safety concerns remain with that proposal. The President’s proposed budget for FY 2014 assumes the implementation of privatized inspection program in poultry.

“All of these privatization schemes should be ended right now until there is a thorough discussion of the impact on food safety of these ill-conceived schemes,” said Food & Water Watch Executive Director Wenonah Hauter.

The OIG also found that FSIS is not doing an effective job of enforcing its food safety regulations against companies that have repeated violations. The agency is investing over $141 million in a new information technology system called the Public Health Information System (PHIS) that has not been properly implemented to track these violations.

“PHIS is fraught with problems and we urge the OIG to conduct a top to bottom audit of PHIS and stop wasting taxpayer dollars on a system that is an impediment to inspectors trying to keep our food safe,” said Hauter.

Soybean Growers Call for Swift Passage of Senate Farm Bill

With a vote of 15-5 this afternoon, the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry passed the “Agricultural Reform, Food and Jobs Act of 2013,” the Committee’s version of a new Farm Bill. American Soybean Association (ASA) President Danny Murphy, a soybean farmer from Canton, Miss., called on the full Senate to pass the bill, and expressed ASA’s appreciation for the cooperative and bipartisan effort displayed by the Committee in crafting a bill that provides farmers with the certainty they need to continue producing enough food, feed, fiber, and biofuels to meet growing domestic and global demand.

“Led by Chairwoman Stabenow and Ranking Member Cochran, the members of the Committee came together to pass a bill today that takes great strides toward enacting legislation we’ve all worked so hard on since the first hearing in 2010,” said Murphy. “The Committee’s farm bill provides continued planting flexibility, reinforces crop insurance, protects our natural resources, authorizes and funds vital trade, research and education programs, and feeds our nation’s hungry, all while addressing our nation’s budget needs by reducing spending by $23 billion, including elimination of direct payments and duplication of conservation programs. This is a responsible bill and one that the Senate should pass without delay.”

Among the key provisions in the bill for ASA is the structure of the bill’s commodity programs in Title I. In addition to the Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) program to protect against revenue losses, the Committee approved a price-based Adverse Market Program which sets reference (target) prices at a percentage of recent average prices and provides that support levels be updated annually.

“By agreeing to support a decoupled, market-oriented approach to price protection, the Committee has resolved a philosophical difference between farm groups on how to keep government farm programs from distorting planting decisions, and has united all major production regions behind one approach,” added Murphy. “ASA recommended this approach in March in the interest of finding common ground on which we might move a new farm bill forward. Both Chairwoman Stabenow and Ranking Member Cochran deserve a great deal of credit for helping this process along, and ASA commends them for it.”

The Senate bill reauthorizes and funds numerous ASA priorities, including the Biodiesel Education Program, the Biobased Market Program, agricultural research initiatives, and the Foreign Market Development and Market Access Programs.  It also includes provisions that strengthen the crop insurance program, a top priority for ASA.

Johanns Opposes Costly, Gimmick-laden Farm Bill
U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.), a former Secretary of Agriculture, today voted against advancing out of committee a farm bill that relied on budget gimmicks and outdated policy. Despite his opposition, the bill passed in the committee by a vote of 15-5.

“Ag producers and taxpayers deserve an updated, reform-minded farm bill that promotes free market principles and saves taxpayer dollars,” Johanns said. “Unfortunately, the bill considered by the Ag Committee did not do enough to save money, and took us a step back towards 1980s farm policy.

“Just last year, we were able to come together in the Senate to pass a good bill that moved farm policy away from income support and towards risk management.  While this bill contains some of those reforms, it represents a significant step backward for ag policy and reduces farm bill spending by just 1.5 percent.

The farm bill reported out of the Senate Agriculture Committee counts $6.4 billion in savings from spending cuts that are not even in the legislation, but were already signed into law in 2011. It also includes a budget gimmick that hides $3.1 billion in payments just outside the ten-year budget window to make the bill appear less-costly. All told, the bill actually saves just $15 billion over ten years instead of the $24 billion its supporters are claiming.

Although last year’s bill would have eliminated target prices, this year’s bill more than doubles target price payments from $1.5 billion to $3.5 billion, moving ag policy away from the goal of a market-based system. Target prices were also increased. Rice’s target price was increased by more than 25 percent, and peanut prices were six percent from levels that have already triggered payments every year for the past decade.

The legislation also failed to achieve available savings by modernizing farm payments or focusing nutrition programs, which can be done without affecting the benefits going to current eligible recipients.

Senator Johanns believes our country needs a long-term, reform-minded farm bill, especially in the midst of a prolonged drought, and looks forward to opportunities to offer fixes during the amendment process.

NCGA Applauds Senate Ag Committee Farm Bill Action
National Corn Growers Association President Pam Johnson released the following statement in response to the Senate Agriculture Committee’s farm bill passage:

“We greatly appreciate the work by Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow and the Committee to put forth a well-crafted farm bill. The National Corn Growers Association is pleased to see the Committee listened to the concerns of our nation’s corn farmers and have done a great job keeping our priorities, especially the importance of crop insurance and risk management, under consideration while drafting the legislation.

 “While we understand this is the first step in a very long process, we applaud the Senate Ag Committee for completing their bill and are encouraged that the House Agriculture Committee will swiftly follow suit. We look forward to continued work with members and staff on this important piece of legislation and urge Congress to pass a farm bill as soon as possible this year.”

NCBA on Senate Agriculture Committee Farm Bill Markup
With the Senate Agriculture Committee markup of the 2013 Farm Bill completed today, farmers and ranchers now look toward the House Agriculture Committee markup of its version of the bill, scheduled for May 15, as Congress moves one step closer toward passing a full 2013 Farm Bill, which would set American agriculture policy for the next five years.

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) President Scott George, a beef and dairy producer from Cody, Wyo., said his organization is pleased with the outcome of the Senate markup, adding that having cattle producers’ top farm bill priorities included in the legislation is paramount to ensuring the viability and sustainability of the beef industry.

“This version of the farm bill incorporates the priorities which NCBA and our membership fought hard for last year. There is not a livestock title, the conservation programs are maintained and the research title is sustained,” said George. “These priorities address the needs of cattle producers while limiting invasive federal oversight and ensure that farmers and ranchers can continue to produce a wholesome, safe and affordable food supply.”

The bill passed by the committee this afternoon did not include the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) / United Egg Producers (UEP) language. After announcing two weeks ago that it planned to include language in the draft farm bill legislation that would codify an agreement between HSUS and UEP to seek federally mandated production practices for the egg industry, the Senate Agriculture Committee made the decision last week that the proposal would not be included in their markup of the farm bill.

“Including the HSUS/UEP legislation in the farm bill would have created a potential slippery slope to allow the federal government to mandate on-farm production practices for all sectors of the agriculture. Cattlemen and women have worked closely with the committee and leadership over these past years and we are very pleased the Senate used commonsense judgment and decided to not include this proposal in the bill,” said George. “We support this legislation that has come out of committee today and will continue working with both the Senate and House Agriculture Committees to ensure the passage of agriculture policy which will provide certainty to farmers and ranchers.”

ACE: Bipartisan Support in Senate Ag Committee for Blender Pumps and E15
American Coalition for Ethanol Executive Vice President Brian Jennings released the following statement after the Senate Agriculture Committee concluded a markup of the 2013 Farm Bill today.  He says, “ACE thanks Chairwoman Stabenow and members of the Senate Agriculture Committee for adopting a Farm Bill which provides $800 million in mandatory funding for critical Energy Title initiatives, particularly $241 million in mandatory funding for the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).  REAP provides vital cost-share assistance to help petroleum marketers make upgrades or install new equipment at retail stations, ensuring consumers have access to renewable and affordable fuels such as ethanol.  Today’s action highlights strong bipartisan support for market access to E15 and midlevel blends, such as E30 or E85.  We encourage the U.S. Senate to take action soon to enact the Farm Bill.”

NMPF Pleased with Senate Agriculture Committee Farm Bill Approval
“We commend the members of the Senate Agriculture Committee for approving a farm bill today to transform dairy policy, while making necessary improvements in other farm and nutrition programs. The dairy title of the committee’s bill contains the long-awaited reforms offered by the Dairy Security Act, which provides the best combination of effective risk management for dairy farmers, while minimizing program costs to the taxpayer," says Jerry Kozak, President and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation. 

“Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) has again proved to be an effective leader of her committee, and we thank her, Ranking Member Thad Cochran (R-MS), and the other members of the Agriculture Committee for working together on the overall farm bill. Dairy farmers look forward to that same leadership as the bill reaches the Senate floor in the coming days.

“We also urge members of the House Agriculture Committee, during their markup of the farm bill tomorrow, to approve the Dairy Security Act and oppose an effort by Rep. Bob Goodlatte that aims to weaken the bill’s protection of dairy farmers. The Dairy Security Act is the best approach to providing milk producers an effective safety net, while avoiding a scenario that Goodlatte’s amendment could cause where dairy margins are low for long periods, hurting farmers and taxpayers alike.”



CBO Releases Score on Senate Farm Bill

The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office on Monday released its score of the Senate farm bill, just prior to start of the Senate Agriculture Committee marking up the bill.

The score is roughly in line with preliminary estimates by Senate Democrats and shows how counting sequestration savings helps bump up the bill's deficit reduction totals, reports The Hill.

CBO says the bill, authored by Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), cuts $18 billion over 10 years, compared to current law. The bill cuts more, if one assumes that the automatic sequestration cuts that went into effect would be repealed. The farm bill keeps those cuts in place and can claim another $6.4 billion in savings by doing so.

Added together, the cuts compared to repealing the sequester yield $24.4 billion in savingsm about $1.4 billion more than Stabenow estimated when the bill was released last week.

The bill cuts $4 billion from food stamp programs, $17 billion from traditional farm subsidies and $3.6 billion from environmental programs. It then spends $5 billion to bolster crop insurance programs.

The CBO score indicates that a major challenge is in store for lawmakers when the House and Senate try to reconcile the bills they are crafting. The House farm bill is estimated to cut $20 billion from food stamps, a much higher figure sure to be opposed by Democrats.

The House marks up its bill on Wednesday.



New Economic Assessment of Farm Bill Dairy Security Act

A new analysis of the key Farm Bill dairy proposals under consideration in the House Agriculture Committee finds that the Dairy Security Act (DSA) is better for farmers – as well as taxpayers – compared to the Goodlatte-Scott alternative proposal that will be offered in the committee deliberations tomorrow.

The new report, prepared by University of Missouri agricultural economists Scott Brown and Daniel Madison, assessed how the Dairy Security Act would have affected farm-level economics during the period 2009 through 2012 compared with the impact of an alternative plan offered by Reps. Goodlatte and Scott (G-S). The DSA program offers dairy farmers margin insurance, coupled with a market stabilization mechanism that improves farm prices during low periods while also controlling the program’s cost. The Goodlatte-Scott amendment lacks the market stabilization feature.

According to Brown and Madison’s economic modelling, the DSA would have increased net farm revenues by $0.55 per cwt. over the period studied, while the Goodlatte-Scott amendment would have raised farm revenue by only $0.48 per cwt. More important from a budgetary standpoint, the Goodlatte-Scott proposal would have hiked government expenditures by $1 billion over the 2009 to 2012 period compared to the DSA, because G-S would encourage more milk production – even at lower margins.

“This new analysis gets to the heart of the question that our lawmakers must answer: do they support a plan that will save the government money while helping farmers, or will they instead endorse an alternative that results in the worst of all worlds -- lower farm milk prices and higher taxpayer outlays?,” said Jerry Kozak, President and CEO of NMPF. “Regardless of your politics, the Dairy Security Act is the more fiscally responsible choice.”

Contrary to claims that the DSA would short the market of milk, affecting both the domestic and export aspects of the U.S. dairy sector, the Missouri report found that “Milk production on average is virtually unchanged under either option.” Brown’s report did note that the DSA’s market stabilization program would slow milk output in response to market signals, but that it would not have been in place frequently enough to produce long-term changes in milk production.



Scout for Alfalfa and Clover Leaf Weevils in Alfalfa
Bob Wright, Extension Entomologist
Keith Jarvi, Extension Educator in Dakota, Dixon, and Thurston Counties
Michael Rethwisch, Extension Educator in Butler County

Insect development has been slowed this spring due to below average temperatures, but as temperatures warm up expect to see alfalfa weevil larvae in southern Nebraska and slightly later, in northern Nebraska. There have already been reports of feeding in Kansas. It is time to begin scouting for alfalfa weevils and the accompanying feeding damage.

Alfalfa Weevil Life Cycle
Most alfalfa weevils overwinter as adults, become active as temperatures increase, and lay eggs. Some may lay eggs in the stem during fall and, if winter is not too severe, will successfully overwinter. These eggs will hatch earlier than those laid in spring. This is most likely to occur in southern counties.

The seasonal occurrence of alfalfa weevils does not fit this general pattern in some areas in Nebraska. In the Panhandle and in the northern tier of counties there may be two flushes of weevil larvae in the spring. In the last few years some areas of the state have received damage to regrowth after the first cutting due to a combination of late larval feeding and adult feeding. This is something to be aware of after the first cutting.

While alfalfa weevil damage has been spotty in much of Nebraska over the past few years, the potential for damage always exists. Even with the pressure of planting row crops, producers growing high quality alfalfa hay should make time to monitor fields for weevils over the next few weeks.

Clover Leaf Weevils
Clover leaf weevils (CLW) are occasionally a problem, but are vulnerable to fungus disease. These pests haven’t been a problem since the late 80s to early 90s when spring rains were rare. Dry conditions over the past several years in western Nebraska may have helped populations increase, although recent rains may have knocked down populations.

To scout for clover leaf weevil, look in the debris around the crowns during day. Scratching in the soil around the crowns and counting the number of larvae found per crown will help give a better idea of clover leaf weevil infestation. Their brown heads will help distinguish them from the black-headed alfalfa weevil.  

Both the alfalfa and clover leaf weevils feed on first cutting alfalfa as larvae, and regrowth after the first cutting as adults (and sometimes larvae). While research in northeast Nebraska has shown that clover leaf weevil larva feeding does not cause yield reduction to first cutting alfalfa, alfalfa weevil feeding can cause severe losses to yield and quality of the first cutting. This is why it’s important to correctly identify the type of weevil feeding causing damage.

Scouting
It is essential that fields be monitored for alfalfa weevil feeding now. Damage consists of small holes and interveinal feeding on the newest leaflets near the stem tips. The larvae are small (1/16 to 3/8 inch long) and pale yellowish green, becoming a darker green when larger. These legless worms have black heads and a white stripe the length of the back. The alfalfa weevil larvae spend nearly all their time on the plant. They curl into a C-shape when disturbed.

Once the alfalfa is about 4-6 inches tall, take a net sample to establish whether weevils are present. If they are, carefully cut some stems at ground level (30 to 50 per field, from various spots in the field) and shake the stems against the side of a 5-gallon bucket. This will dislodge the weevils and make it easy to average the number of weevil larvae per stem.

Insecticides
Many insecticides are registered to control alfalfa weevil larvae. See the most recent edition of the Guide for Weed Management in Nebraska with Insecticide and Fungicide Information (UNL EC130) for rates and restrictions of commonly used insecticides for alfalfa weevil larval control. They differ in their modes of action as well as pre-harvest interval. Highly effective insecticides for alfalfa weevil control include those that are pyrethroids (active ingredient ends in “thrin”) and Steward.

Pyrethroid insecticides also can have detrimental effects on any beneficial insects present.



Nebraska a Long-time Leader in Research into Distillers Grains

            Terry Klopfenstein's first foray into the possibility of using distillers grains for cattle feed in the late 1960s was based on the idea of fermenting wheat because it was so cheap at the time.

            "I put together a plan that never took off. It's a good thing that it didn't," Klopfenstein recalled.

            Instead, the fledgling field took its lead from the distilling industry in Kentucky, which was about adult beverages, of course, even landing some early funding from the whiskey industry for research.

            At the time, cattle were fed corn, corn silage and alfalfa, but the industry was interested in the possibility of feeding a distillers byproduct, Klopfenstein said. Early research showed that with much of the starch removed, distillers grains were a better feed than corn.

           "That was a tough sell to feeders," Klopfenstein said.

            Later came another shift: In addition to being a source of protein, research showed, distillers grains could be a source of energy for cattle.

            Over the decades since, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources has been a leader in the field, thanks to Nebraska's unique mix of corn, cattle and ethanol production. IANR animal scientists long have been leaders in researching how best to use byproducts from ethanol production for cattle feed. Their pioneering studies in the 1990s proved the benefits of feeding wet byproducts to cattle instead of drying the material. Eliminating drying reduces ethanol production costs, reduces greenhouse gas emissions from the agricultural complex, and provides an economical, high-performance feed. This work transformed wet byproducts into a feedlot staple and helped develop Nebraska's ethanol industry.

            Klopfenstein, now semi-retired, has been the one constant presence in that research. In addition, his former students now are all over the country carrying the work forward as feeders and consultants.

            Bill Dicke, who got bachelor's and master's degrees in ruminant nutrition from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the 1970s, founded Cattlemen's Nutrition Services LLC, based in Lincoln, one of the largest independent beef nutrition consulting firms in the nation.

            Dicke said Klopfenstein's research and teaching have been key in making Nebraska a leader.

            "We definitely use what we learned in graduate school over the years, and we continue to monitor research and follow the university's research very heavily," Dicke said.

            Klopfenstein's colleagues, including fellow animal scientist Galen Erickson, take university research to the industry through UNL Extension. In 2012, for example, Erickson advised consultants to use more corn silage in cattle's diets, in part to use drought-damaged corn. In fact, current IANR research is exploring working more corn silage back into cattle's diets after it was largely eliminated since the 1980s. "There's a synergy there between silage and distillers grains," Klopfenstein said.

            Klopfenstein praised the Nebraska Corn Board, and the livestock and ethanol industries for being a key part of the partnership.



IFBF Funds Entrepreneurship, Animal Care Programs

The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) has provided $150,000 to support two programs in the Iowa State University (ISU) College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. One encourages budding entrepreneurs to return to rural Iowa and another supports the expansion of swine welfare training.

The Agricultural Entrepreneurship Initiative will receive $100,000 and the animal science department’s applied research in animal care and well-being project will receive $50,000.

Kevin Kimle, director of the Agricultural Entrepreneurship Initiative, says the funds support students who plan to return to Iowa farms and communities or start businesses. Since its start, more than 200 students have enrolled in the program to develop business plans.

Students who start businesses after completing the course are provided support through the initiative’s Student Incubator Program. The program encourages students to implement business concepts on farms and in rural communities. The program also places student interns with existing entrepreneurs through its summer program.

The $50,000 animal science department funding will go toward study and outreach activities to bring the latest advances in animal welfare to Iowa farms. Anna Butters-Johnson, Iowa State associate professor of animal science, says the programming is based on the needs of Iowa’s swine, poultry, dairy and beef producers.

“The on-farm Extension programs will use sound science relevant to Extension and outreach activities that, in turn, will create a network for improved communications on animal care and welfare practices in the state,” Butters-Johnson says.

To improve communications with livestock producers, Butters-Johnson hired Larry Sadler to fill a new position beginning in August. Sadler will create web-based communications, including a newsletter and educational materials. The goal is to provide information about the Iowa Swine Welfare School, Iowa State research and Extension and feature livestock and poultry producers who are enhancing animal care and welfare.

“Today’s responsible farmers are always seeking continuous improvement on their farms and that means embracing scientifically-proven animal handling guidance. We are looking forward to all that this new position at ISU can bring and new ways to share that research to a wider audience,” says Craig Hill, president of IFBF and a Milo, IA, livestock farmer.

The funds also support a swine welfare training school for producers throughout Iowa. Sadler also will provide grant-writing support to help launch on-farm training programs for other livestock species.



North-South American Maize Growers Form International Alliance

The U.S. Grains Council (USGC), along with the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), MAIZAR, representing Argentina producers and the maize supply chain and ABRAMILHO (Brazilian Association of Corn Producers) today signed a memorandum of understanding to form an alliance of North and South American maize (corn) producers to collaborate on a global basis to address key issues concerning food security, biotechnology, stewardship, trade and producer image.  The organizations will function under the name, MAIZALL—The International Maize Alliance.

Signatories to the memorandum representing the producer organizations included: Don Fast, Chairman, USGC; Pam Johnson, President, NCGA; Alberto Morelli, Chairman, MAIZAR; and Sergio Luiz Bortolozzo, 2nd Vice President, ABRAMILHO. The MAIZALL alliance was launched as part of the MAIZAR 2013 Congress meeting in Buenos Aires. Argentina

“As both populations and economies continue to grow, the global middle class in expanding rapidly. World population is expected to increase more than 30 percent in the next 40 years, from 7 billion in 2012 to more than 9 billion in 2050,” said Don Fast, USGC Chairman. “The increase in population and buying power has led to an ever-growing demand for maize and other food and feed ingredients as diets are improving globally.”

“Food Security is a priority for every country,” said Pam Johnson, NCGA President. “Countries can be food secure without being self-sufficient by establishing relationships and building trust with exporting countries to be long-term, reliable suppliers of quality feed and food supplies,” Johnson noted.

“As the world’s population increases, farmers in exporting countries are challenged to grow more with less while improving stewardship and sustainability,” said Alberto Morelli, MAIZAR Chairman. “In the three countries where it is embraced, biotechnology has boosted yields and grain quality, reduced the intensity of chemical and fertilizer application, conserved soil, organic content and moisture, and enhanced returns to producers. Agricultural biotechnology is a critical component of the larger bio-economy that is necessary to sustainably provide for the needs of the growing global population and mitigate the impacts of climate change.”

“We are at a time when the growth of the middle class is exerting sustained pressure on input and food prices,” Sergio Luiz Bortollozo, ABRAMILHO 2nd Vice President stated. “The lack of predictable, functional, practical and science-based regulatory and trade policies in reviewing and approving new crop technologies by governments worldwide are imposing a crippling burden on innovation. For growers, the delays in introducing new technologies mean lost opportunities for higher yields and lower input costs. For consumers facing ever-rising food prices, the consequences are more acute.”

The primary focus of this new alliance is emphasize the need for better consumer understanding of production agriculture, including the benefits of biotechnology and advancing the global acceptance on the capacity to produce maize for feed, food and fuel. MAIZALL will also conduct outreach to governments and stakeholders on the need for trade-enabling biotechnology policies and regulatory procedures.



USDA Announces Conservation Reserve Program Sign-Up

Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack today reminded farmers and ranchers that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will conduct a four-week Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) general sign-up beginning May 20 and ending on June 14. Vilsack also announced the restart of sign-up for continuous CRP, including the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement Initiative, the Highly Erodible Land Initiative, the Grassland Restoration Initiative, the Pollinator Habitat Initiative and other related initiatives. Sign-up for continuous CRP began on May 13 and will continue through Sept. 30, 2013.

"As always, we expect strong competition to enroll acres into CRP, and we urge interested producers to maximize their environmental benefits and to make cost-effective offers," said Vilsack. "CRP is an important program for protecting environmentally sensitive lands from erosion and sedimentation, and for ensuring the sustainability of our groundwater, lakes, rivers, ponds and streams. Through the voluntary participation of our farmers and ranchers, CRP helps us to protect our natural resources, preserve wildlife habitat and bring good paying jobs to rural America related to hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation.

Vilsack encouraged producers to look into CRP's other enrollment opportunities offered on a continuous, non-competitive, sign-up basis.

CRP has a 27-year legacy of successfully protecting the nation's natural resources through voluntary participation, while providing significant economic and environmental benefits to rural communities across the United States. Producers enrolled in CRP plant long-term, resource-conserving covers to improve the quality of water, control soil erosion and develop wildlife habitat. In return, USDA provides participants with rental payments and cost-share assistance. Contract duration is between 10 and 15 years. Currently, 27 million acres are enrolled in CRP through 700,000 contracts on 390,000 farms throughout the U.S., with enrollment in 49 states and Puerto Rico. Contracts on an estimated 3.3 million acres will expire on Sept. 30, 2013. Enrollment authority for all types of CRP, which had expired Sept. 30, 2012, was extended through 2013 by the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012.

Offers for general sign-up CRP contracts are ranked according to an Environmental Benefits Index (EBI). USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA) collects data for each of the EBI factors based on the relative environmental benefits for the land offered. FSA uses the following factors to assess the environmental benefits for the land offered:
-    Wildlife habitat benefits resulting from covers on contract acreage;
-    Water quality benefits from reduced erosion, runoff and leaching;
-    On-farm benefits from reduced erosion;
-    Benefits that will likely endure beyond the contract period;
-    Air quality benefits from reduced wind erosion; and
-    Cost.

CRP soil rental rates for non-irrigated cropland were updated this year to better reflect location and market conditions. A nationwide cap was placed on the maximum amount that may be paid per acre for the general sign-up. Taken together these steps help ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent in a fiscally responsible manner while producing the maximum environmental benefits for each dollar spent.

CRP is the largest USDA conservation program and continues to make major contributions to national efforts to improve water and air quality, prevent soil erosion, and protect the most sensitive areas including those prone to flash flooding and runoff. At the same time, CRP has helped increase populations of pheasants, quail and ducks and is recognized as benefiting certain rare species like the sage grouse, the lesser prairie chicken and other grassland birds.



Retail Fertilizer Prices Unmoved for 6 Months

Fertilizer prices remain unmoved as spring field work inches along across the Corn Belt, according to retail fertilizer prices tracked by DTN for the first week of April 2013. Prices now have been nearly steady for exactly six months, with the last substantial move occurring in late October 2012.  Five of the eight major fertilizers slid lower compared to last month, but these moves were fairly small. DAP had average price of $613/ton, MAP $656/ton, potash $586/ton, urea $571/ton and anhydrous $853/ton.  The remaining three fertilizers were higher compared to the first week of April but again the move was minor. 10-34-0 had an average price of $614/ton, UAN28 $402/ton and UAN32 $449/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.62/lb.N, anhydrous $0.52/lb.N, UAN28 $0.72/lb.N and UAN32 $0.70/lb.N.

Only one of the eight major fertilizers is showing a price increase compared to one year earlier. Anhydrous is now 11% higher compared to last year.  Four fertilizers are a single digit lower in price compared to May 2012. DAP is 4% lower, both MAP and UAN28 are down 6% and UAN32 is 7% lower compared to last year.  The remaining three fertilizers are now down double digits from a year ago. Potash is now down 11% while 10-34-0 is 22% less expensive and urea is 25% lower.



Vilsack Unveils Vision for U.S. Organic Agriculture

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today discussed his vision for U.S. organic agriculture and USDA efforts to ensure its continued success during remarks to the Organic Trade Association. Vilsack announced a number of changes and new initiatives to support the continued growth of organic agriculture, including that the USDA's Risk Management Agency's (RMA) federal crop insurance program will increase coverage options for organic producers this year and provide even more options in 2014, including a contract price addendum as well as new premium price elections for organic crops. Additionally, RMA will remove the current five-percent organic rate surcharge on all future crop insurance policies beginning in 2014.

Vilsack also said USDA will be providing new guidance and direction on organic production to all USDA agencies in support of organic agriculture and markets. USDA is now asking each agency to routinely address the needs of the organic sector in their programs and services where appropriate. The National Organic Program has supported the continued growth of America's organic sector, which has been increasing market share each year and now is a more than $30 billion industry. Vilsack noted that accurate data is the biggest obstacle for developing better crop insurance options for organic farmers and expressed his desire that Congress help USDA make further progress by renewing the 2008 Organic Data Initiative as part of a new Food, Farms and Jobs bill.

"Organic agriculture is one of the fastest growing segments of American agriculture and helps farmers receive a higher price for their product as they strive to meet growing consumer demand," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "These new options will extend the safety net provided by crop insurance and provide fair and flexible solutions to organic producers. Coupled with the new guidance for agencies to support this growing sector, USDA recognizes that organics are gaining market share and is helping boost this emerging segment."

New crop-insurance pricing options will be available to organic producers who grow crops under guaranteed contracts beginning with the 2014 crop year. This contract price option allows organic producers who receive a contract price for their crop to get a crop insurance guarantee that is more reflective of the actual value of their crop. They will have the ability, where available and at their choice, to use their personal contract price as their price election or to choose existing crop insurance price elections. This contract price option will be available for between 60 and 70 crops in the 2014 crop year and this contract price feature will be available to the majority of insured organic crops. RMA is also changing organic transitional yields (t-yields) so they will be more reflective of actual organic farming experience, starting with the 2014 crop year.

All crops are being evaluated for establishing organic prices for the 2014 crop year. Current pricing options only allow farmers to insure organic crops at the conventional prices, with the exception of eight crops (corn, soybeans, cotton, processing tomatoes, avocados, and several fresh stone fruit crops) that already have premium organic price elections. RMA is working to provide organic price elections for six to ten crops in 2014. Oats and mint are two crops that have already been selected for organic price elections in 2014, and apricots, apples, blueberries, millet, and others are still under consideration.

USDA's Agriculture Marketing Service last year announced the Organic Literacy Initiative, a public outreach and employee training program to help connect current and prospective organic operations with appropriate USDA resources. To date, over 14,000 USDA employees have taken the basic training on USDA's role in organic agriculture. The new guidance will further improve USDA agencies' ability to incorporate the needs of the growing organic sector into their programs and services. These combined actions should result in staff better equipped to help organic farmers obtain technical and financial assistance, insure crops and livestock, access research findings, secure loans, develop conservation practices, find current organic price information, and access local, regional, and international markets. Through this effort, agencies will also better understand the scope and rigor of the certification process and how it complements their own programs.

Organic certification allows farmers and ranchers to receive premium prices for their value-added products. Over the past 10 years, the number of certified organic farms and businesses in the United States has expanded to approximately 17,750, representing a 240 percent increase since USDA first began collecting this data. Similarly, the retail value of the organic industry grew almost 9.5 percent in 2011 to $31.4 billion. Organic foods continue to gain market share in the food industry, climbing to 4.2 percent of U.S. retail food sales in 2011.



ACE’s Lamberty joins ASTM Technical Committee overlooking fuel standards

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) has joined the ASTM (Formerly American Society for Testing and Materials) Technical Committee D02 on Petroleum Products and Lubricants, represented by ACE Senior Vice President Ron Lamberty. Lamberty is participating in a training meeting this week in New Orleans.

Lamberty says he’s excited to be a member of the committee and thinks he’ll be a good fit because of his background.  “After over 30 years as a fuel retailer and station owner, I will look at standards not only from the point of view of ethanol producers, but from the practical perspective of someone who has to work with those specifications in the "real world." I look forward to offering whatever information I can on ethanol, as we work on future fuels with higher octane and higher concentrations of ethanol,” said Lamberty.

The ASTM Committee D02 on Petroleum Products and Lubricants meets twice a year. The committee, currently has jurisdiction over 580 standards which are published in five volumes of the Annual Book of ASTM Standards. According to the ASTM, the standards developed during the committee meetings play an important role in all aspects relating to the standardization of Petroleum Products and Lubricants.



Oil Slides on IEA Output Forecast

(AP) -- The price of oil slid by nearly $1 a barrel Tuesday as the International Energy Agency raised its forecast for U.S. oil production while cutting its prediction for global crude demand.

Benchmark oil for June delivery dropped 96 cents to close at $94.21 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Oil has declined $2.41 a barrel over the last four trading sessions.

The loss came after the Paris-based IEA, which advises 28 countries about energy issues, said rising U.S oil output will be the key source of new supplies over the coming five-year period.

"The supply shock created by a surge in North American oil production will be as transformative to the market over the next five years as was the rise of Chinese demand over the last 15," the IEA said in its in its medium-term market report.

While noting risks such as the effects of the "Arab Spring" on investment and capacity growth in the North African and Middle East oil industries, the IEA said it expected "a more comfortable global oil supply/demand balance" in the next five years.

Also weighing on prices was the IEA's decision to trim its global demand forecast for every year between 2013 and 2017. The agency cut its 2013 outlook by 20,000 barrels a day.

Overall the IEA forecast global oil demand growth to rise by a total of 6.1 million barrels a day over the next five years, from 90.6 million barrels a day in 2013 to 96.7 million barrels a day in 2018.

"Growth will remain subdued in 2013, then gain momentum in 2014-15 on stronger economic expansion, and slow down again in 2016-18 on efficiency improvements and fuel switching," the IEA said.



CWT Assists with 933,000 Pounds of Cheese Export Sales

Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) has accepted four requests for export assistance from Dairy Farmers of America, Northwest Dairy Association (Darigold) and Foremost Farms to sell 932,556 pounds (423 metric tons) of Cheddar cheese to customers in Asia and North Africa. The product will be delivered May through October 2013.

Year-to-date, CWT has assisted member cooperatives in selling 53.810 million pounds of cheese, 51.727 million pounds of butter, 44,092 pounds of anhydrous milk fat and 218,258 pounds of whole milk powder to 31 countries on six continents. These sales are the equivalent of 1.626 billion pounds of milk on a milkfat basis. That is more than USDA’s projected increase in milk marketings for all of 2013.

Assisting CWT members through the Export Assistance program positively impacts producer milk prices in the short-term by helping to maintain inventories of cheese and butter at desirable levels. In the long-term, CWT’s Export Assistance program helps member cooperatives gain and maintain market share, thus expanding the demand for U.S. dairy products and the farm milk that produces them.

CWT will pay export assistance to the bidders only when delivery of the product is verified by the submission of the required documentation.

April CWT-Assisted Export Sales Total 9.1 Million Pounds
In April, Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) received a total of 126 requests for export assistance from member cooperatives. Of those, 28 counter offers made by CWT were accepted, resulting in 3.9 million pounds of cheese and 5.2 million pounds of butter being sold, primarily to customers in Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa.

Through April, CWT has assisted 10 member cooperatives in making 308 export sales totaling 50.9 million pounds of cheese, 51.7 million pounds of butter, 44,092 pounds of anhydrous milk fat, and 218,258 pounds of whole milk powder. The product will be shipped through October of this year. It is equivalent to 1.6 billion pounds of milk, which exceeded USDA's estimate of the increase in U.S. milk production in 2013.

CWT-assisted shipments of cheese and butter in 2013, through April, totaled 52.9 million pounds of American-type cheeses and 29.9 million pounds of 82% milkfat butter. The majority of cheese will be going to Asia, while the majority of butter will be shipped to the Middle East and North Africa.



REAL Seal to Launch New Social Media Campaign

NMPF's efforts to revitalize the REAL® Seal will take a big leap forward this spring, as a new campaign to build interest in the seal through social media is being launched. The campaign will galvanize interest among consumers in real, American-made dairy products, using a new Facebook page, blogger outreach, and digital advertising. The program will be launched in time for June Dairy Month.

The revamped REAL Seal® Facebook page will create a new voice and visual feel to engage and cultivate target audiences, especially moms and heads of households consuming dairy products. The page's content will include interaction-provoking updates, multimedia presentations, contests, polls, and quizzes. One of the elements of the launch will feature a "Name the Character" contest. Kids submitting the winning name will receive a packet of coupons provided by product marketers using the REAL® Seal.

The blogger outreach will generate engagement, online conversation, and awareness surrounding the REAL® Seal campaign by driving consumers to official REAL® Seal platforms, and by interacting with bloggers writing about the mom/parenting, food/cooking, health/wellness, and lifestyle topic areas. Starting in July, a special Buyer's Guide section will be added to the REAL® Seal website, where consumers will be able to go to find REAL® dairy products, foods made with REAL® dairy products and restaurants that use and serve only REAL® dairy products. REAL® Seal users will have the option of providing links to their company's website as well.



Narrow Rows Will Shape the Future of Yield Potential

Stine Seed Company’s exploration of 12-inch row corn is attracting a lot of attention from growers and industry leaders. Last year, Stine planted 2,300 acres of corn and 100 acres of soybeans in 12-inch rows. Even with 2012’s drought conditions, results were impressive, reaffirming Stine’s belief that using space more efficiently, coupled with the right hybrids, will shape the future for higher corn yields.

To take this concept to the next level, this year Stine is planting 15,000 acres of corn and soybeans at the Stine Farm near Adel, Iowa, in 12-inch rows. Machinery specially customized for this effort includes modified planters, corn heads, sprayers and special floatation tractor tires that operate with just five pounds of air pressure.

“At Stine, we’re always looking for the next step to improving yields, and we think the answer is hybrids with the right genetics to perform in high populations,” says Stine Vice President of Sales and Marketing Myron Stine. “Growers want to produce more yield per acre, and we’re pushing the envelope to find ways to do that. One of the keys to high density production is working in narrower rows.”

With increasing interest in the 12-inch rows, Stine will plant between 50 and 70 12-inch row corn demo plots (as weather and logistics allow) across the Corn Belt to demonstrate how high density planting, coupled with selecting the right genetics, can help growers reach the maximum yield potential for their fields. The plots are designed to provide growers a glimpse of the future direction in crop production.

“We’re not telling anyone to go to 12-inch rows today,” says Stine. “However, we do believe that’s where corn production is heading, and we plan to be the ones leading the innovation.”

Stine’s 9733VT3PRO and R9733EVT3PRO are currently the company’s best performing hybrids in high population situations. Both are medium stature hybrids with good stress tolerance and excellent stalks and roots. These hybrids will be planted in many of the demo plots, along with a selection of seed genetics that are not suitable for higher populations. The intent is to demonstrate to growers how some genetics are more suitable than others for high populations and why proper hybrid selection is critical. A complete listing of demo sites will be made available on Stine’s web site.

The following is a list of anticipated locations for 12-inch corn row demo plots:
Nebraska: Hubbard; Ashland
Iowa: Alton; Rembrandt; Farnhamville; Paton; Earlham; Yale; Jamaica; Lytton; Early; Plainfield; Ackley; Britt; Rake; Carroll; Scranton; Oakland; Graettinger; Hartley; Sheldon; Harlan; Hills; Wilton; Osage; Iowa Falls; Winterset; Ankeny; Knoxville; Hanlontown; Jewell
South Dakota: Baltic
Kansas: Girard; Richmond; Valley Falls; Osborne; Winchester
Missouri: Sikeston; Hardin; St. Charles; Columbia; Smithville; Barnard; Bigelow; Laddonia
Minnesota: Wilmont; Redwood Falls; Sleepy Eye
Illinois: Griggsville; Hamilton; Brimfield; Bloomington; Cabery; Piper City; Breese; Litchfield; Greenfield; Casey; Marshall; Taylorville; Pawnee
Indiana: Windfall; Roann; Keystone; Dunkirk; Sheridan; Holland; Urbana; Alexandria; Portland
Michigan: Vermontville; Breckenridge
Ohio: Hamler; Delphos; Hickville; Marion



ASGROW BRAND SET TO DELIVER OUTSTANDING LINEUP OF ROCK STAR PRODUCTS AND NEW SOYBEAN ADVANCEMENTS IN 2014

The Asgrow brand is excited to offer a proven roster of high-performing, Rock Star products, along with an expansive range of soybean advancements that farmers can rely on for many seasons to come.

Asgrow Rock Star products feature the industry’s latest soybean trait technology, Genuity® Roundup Ready 2 Yield®  and have consistently achieved top-end yields through a combination of superior genetics, improved agronomic traits and the implementation of the Asgrow brand’s 4P System, which is a full-season management system including the “4P’s” – Plan, Plant, Protect and Perform.
“Both the Rock Star Products and new advancements are the best-of-the-best from the Asgrow brand’s elite breeding program,” said Jeff Schneider, Asgrow Line Product Manager. “These advancements are the first class of new products from our more extensive testing program across the U.S., which will ultimately lead to farmers having more confidence in the products they plant and ensure they receive maximum performance on their acres.” 

These tried and true products deliver yield stability and enhance the performance farmers have come to expect from Asgrow. In addition to the Rock Star lineup, Asgrow brand is featuring a diverse offering of new advancements that include industry-leading defensive packages that help farmers protect their yield from insects and devastating diseases such as Soybean Cyst Nematode, Phytophthora Root Rot and Iron-Deficiency Chlorosis tolerance. A field with Soybean Cyst Nematode pressure can result in a 40% loss of potential crop yield before a farmer is able to see above ground symptoms, which is what makes this parasite one of the most harmful yield-robbing pests. 

“For the last 40 years, the Asgrow brand has been dedicated to bringing farmers more advanced products and agronomic solutions,” said Fabrice Houdebert, Asgrow Brand Marketing Lead.  “Whether it’s our established lineup of Rock Star products, commitment to breeding the best defensive traits for farmers’ fields or providing sound, agronomic recommendations, Asgrow will continue to enhance the future of soybean innovation.”

The Rock Star products are designed to perform within the Asgrow 4P System, which is a year-long approach to increase yield potential and profitability of soybeans. By following the high yield management recommendations of the Asgrow 4P System, along with the expert advice provided by their Asgrow seed dealer, farmers can unlock the genetic potential in their fields.

The 2014 lineup of Asgrow Rock Star products include:
-    AG0832 brand (LATE 0)
-    AG1431 brand (MID 1)
-    AG1733 brand (LATE 1)
-    AG2031 brand (EARLY II)
-    AG2433 brand (MID II)
-    AG3231 brand (EARLY III)
-    AG3731 brand (LATE III)
-    AG3832 brand (LATE III)
-    AG4232 brand (EARLY IV)
-    AG4632 brand (MID IV)
-    AG5332 brand (EARLY V)

NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending May 12, 2013, corn planting was active early in the week until light rain Wednesday through Friday limited progress, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service,  Nebraska  Field  Office.  Corn  planting  was  most  advanced  in  south  central  counties  and  least  in northeastern areas where precipitation has been 25-50 percent above normal since April 1.  Average  temperatures were again below normal, with lows dipping below freezing in some areas.  Soil temperatures as of Sunday were 55 degrees or higher throughout the state.  Pastures continue to show limited growth with much of the grazing land in the western half of the state in poor or very poor condition. Fieldwork was limited with only 4.7 days considered suitable.  Statewide, topsoil moisture supplies rated 14 percent very short, 25 short, 59 adequate, and 2 surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 40 percent very short, 42 short, 18 adequate, and 0 surplus.  
 
Field Crops Report:
Corn planted was 43 percent, well behind last year’s 89 and 10 days behind 77 average. Emerged was 2 percent, well behind last year’s 52 and 25 average.

Soybeans planted was 7 percent, behind last year’s 56 and 33 average.

Sorghum planted was 2 percent, behind 22 last year and 12 average.

Wheat conditions  rated 14 percent very poor, 34 poor, 40  fair, 12 good, and 0 excellent. Wheat  jointed was  34 percent, well behind last year’s 94 and 2 weeks behind 67 average.

Oat conditions  rated 4 percent very poor, 8 poor, 55  fair, 32 good, and 1 excellent. Oats planted were at 95 percent, behind  last year’s 99 and 98 average.  Oats emerged were 59 percent, behind  last year’s 91 and 83 average.  
 
Livestock, Pasture and Range Report:
Stock water supplies rated 7 percent very short, 17 short, 75 adequate, and  1  surplus.    Pasture  and  range  condition  rated  28  percent  very  poor,  41  poor,  27  fair,  4  good,  and  0 excellent.  Hay and forage supplies rated 25 percent very short, 46 short, 29 adequate, and 0 surplus.
  


Access the National publication for Crop Progress and Condition tables at: http://usda01.library.cornell.edu/usda/nass/CropProg//2010s/2013/CropProg-05-13-2013.txt.  

Access the High Plains Region Climate Center for Temperature and Precipitation Maps at: http://www.hprcc.unl.edu/maps/current/index.php?action=update_region&state=NE&region=HPRCC

Access the U.S. Drought Monitor at: http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/DM_state.htm?NE,HP



IOWA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

Wet  conditions  during  the  week  ending May  12,  2013  continued  to hinder  planting  progress  in  Iowa,  according  to  the  USDA,  National Agricultural  Statistics  Service.   Moisture  received  on Wednesday  and Thursday  brought  a  halt  to  field  activities.    In  areas  of  the  state  that received  less moisture, some fields dried enough for farmers to resume fieldwork by  the  end of  the week.   There was  an  average of 1.6 days suitable  for  fieldwork  during  the week.    Fieldwork  included  planting, tilling, and application of fertilizers and herbicides.  

Topsoil  moisture  levels  rated  1  percent  very  short,  4  percent  short, 68 percent  adequate  and  27  percent  surplus.    Subsoil moisture  levels rated 4 percent very short, 20 percent short and 63 percent adequate and 13 percent surplus.  

Fifteen percent of Iowa’s corn acreage has been planted compared with 86 percent at this time last year and the five-year average of 79 percent.  This  is  the first year since 1993  that  less  than 20 percent of corn acres were planted by May 12th.   Soybean planting was 1 percent  compete, well  behind  last  year’s  34  percent  and  the  five-year  average  of 30 percent.  This is the latest start to soybean planting since 1995.  Oat planting was 81 percent complete; at this time last year oat planting was complete.   Forty-five percent of oat acreage has emerged, well behind last year’s 94 percent and the five-year average of 77 percent.   

Pasture and range condition rated 10 percent very poor, 17 percent poor, 37 percent fair and 31 percent good and 5 percent excellent.     



IOWA PRELIMINARY WEATHER SUMMARY
Provided by Harry Hillaker, State Climatologist, Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship

The past reporting week began with temperatures slightly above normal from  Monday  (6th)  through  Thursday  (9th)  but  with  sharply  colder weather for the weekend.  Temperatures climbed to 80 degrees at a few eastern  Iowa  locations  on  Tuesday  and  to  81  degrees  at  Cresco, Dubuque Lock #11 and Keokuk on Wednesday.  However, a freeze was reported over much of  Iowa on Sunday  (12th) morning with 23 degree minimums reported at Battle Creek, Sibley and Spencer.  Temperatures for  the  week  as  a  whole  averaged  2.1  degrees  below  normal.  Meanwhile,  dry weather  prevailed  over most  of  the  state  on Monday and Tuesday with a period of rain beginning  in western Iowa Tuesday night  and  finally exiting eastern areas Friday morning.   Heaviest  rains fell Wednesday night with localized amounts of two inches in a narrow band from Council Bluffs to Ames.  Weekly rain totals varied from only 0.02  inches  at  Hamburg  in  far  southwest  Iowa  to  2.58  inches  near Jamaica  in Guthrie County.    The  statewide  average  precipitation was 0.72 inches while normal for the week is 1.00 inches.



USDA:  Corn 28% Planted; Soybeans 6% Planted

Corn planting increased 16 percentage points in the week ended May 12 to 28% nationwide, but emergence only increased two percentage points to 5% emerged in the same time frame due to continuing cool temps last week.  Twenty-eight percent of the nation's corn is in the ground, compared to 12% last week and a 65% five-year average. Emergence is at 5%, compared to 3% last week and a 28% five-year average.

Soybeans planted rose four percentage points to 6% planted, compared to 2% last week and a 24% five-year average. "This number should be viewed as neutral to bullish," Newsom said.

Winter wheat headed increased to 29% from 20% last week. The five-year average is 51%. Winter wheat condition held basically steady at 39% rated poor to very poor, with one percentage point shifting from the poor to very poor category.

Sorghum planting rose to 29%, compared to 28% last week and a 36% five-year average. 



Assessing Freeze Damage to Alfalfa
Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension Forage Specialist

Frozen alfalfa usually needs time to recover before true damage estimates can be made. Now that we've had several warm days since last week's storm, it's time to recheck your alfalfa fields.

To assess the extent of the damage, don't just look for frozen or wilting leaves. You need to determine if the growing point was killed.

The growing point, also called the apical meristem, is the initial development source of all new leaves, stems, and branches on alfalfa. It is inside the dense cluster of unfolded leaves near the top of the main stem. Because it is inside a cluster of leaves, the growing point is somewhat protected from cold injury. Exposed leaves and stems all around it can be frozen, wilted, and dying while the growing point cluster survives, waiting for warm weather before continuing to grow. If the growing points in your
alfalfa survived the freeze, just wait for growth to begin again.

If the growing point was killed, however, growth ceases on that stem. New growth must come from new shoots at the crown or from lower branches. When a large existing plant remains intact, regrowth can be delayed, and harvesting damaged plants can hasten recovery.

This year, since most alfalfa fields don't have enough growth to justify harvest, I suggest just letting them come back on their own even if it takes a little longer.

Pre-Season Irrigation May be Warranted in Some Alfalfa Fields
With reduced precipitation and soil moisture in some areas, alfalfa growers may want to start irrigating before the first cutting this year.

Consider a pre-season irrigation if your soil is dry, as is common in central and western Nebraska. In fact, early spring often is the best time to irrigate alfalfa because it's about the only time you can build a reserve water source for use later in the summer.

Alfalfa can develop roots more than eight feet deep, if necessary, to find soil moisture. Deep roots that are in deep moisture will make your summer irrigating much easier by providing extra moisture when plants use as much as 0.5 inch per day. Conversely, typical shallow watering during summer encourages shallow rooting.

The biggest advantage of having a reserve of deep water comes after each summer cutting. Alfalfa roots need oxygen in the soil if plants are to regrow rapidly. Irrigating right after cutting suffocates roots, slowing down regrowth. Immediate watering also stimulates shallow rooted or sprouting weeds, especially at a time when alfalfa plants are not very competitive. Both problems are reduced when water is available for deep alfalfa roots while the top several inches of soil remain dry. After alfalfa regrows several inches it will out-compete most weeds so irrigation can begin again.

Improve your alfalfa this season by irrigating early with a goal of having six to eight feet of soil at field capacity for soil moisture by the first cutting.



Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Announces Scholarship Recipients

The Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation (NCF) is pleased to announce the following students as recipients of NCF scholarships for the 2013-2014 academic year.

    Hannah Kesterson, Alliance - $1,000 Robert E. Lute II Memorial Scholarship
    Carrick Perlinger, Paxton - $1,000 Frank & Shirley Sibert Scholarship
    Eleanor Wagner, Petersburg - $1,000 Bill Heller Memorial Scholarship
    Maci Lienemann, Princeton - $1,000 Donavan Yoachim Memorial Scholarship
    Levi McPhillips, Columbus - $1,000 Clarence and Lois Jean Hartmann Scholarship
    Kyra Baldwin, Mitchell - $1,000 Ron & Shirley Huss Scholarship
    Larissa Wach, Wauneta - $1,000 Cattlemen's Open Scholarship
    Sara Cooksley, Anselmo - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Janelle Kesterson, Bridgeport - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Patrick Heerten, Springview - $1,000 Martin Viersen Range Management/Conservation Scholarship
    Melissa Matulka, Thedford - $1,000 Nebraska Cattlemen Beef Pit Scholarship
    Kara Ostrand, Mason City - $1,000 Colonel Melvin Huss Memorial Scholarship
    Morgan Rezac, Ceresco - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Judson Hoffschneider, Arlington - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Tevyn Baldwin, Mitchell - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Morgan Zumpfe, Friend - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Garett Amsberry, Ansley - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Railen Ripp, Kearney - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Darren Wright, Bradshaw - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Valerie Matulka, Thedford - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Travis Line, Miller - $1,000 Vance Uden Memorial Scholarship
    Ashley Buescher, Lawrence - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Ashtyn Shrewsbury, Alliance - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Blake Jeffres, Burwell - $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    McKenzie Beals, Alexandria - $500 Agri-Labs Scholarship
    Alec Ibach, Sumner - $500 Lallamand Animal Nutrition Scholarship

The Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation strongly believes in the importance of a sound education for tomorrow’s industry leaders and is pleased to be able to offer these scholarships which are provided through contributions received by NCF.

“The Foundation reviewed applications from many well-qualified youth and is extremely pleased to be able to award these scholarships to help students with their educational goals,” says Loretta Hamilton, Thedford, NE, president of the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation.  “Thanks to the generosity of many donors and to the participants of the Retail Value Steer Challenge, the primary fundraiser for the Foundation, we were able to award 26 scholarships, the greatest number in the 45 year history of the Foundation.”          

Scholarship recipients will be recognized during the Nebraska Cattlemen Midyear Meeting in Valentine, Wednesday, June 19, at the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Lunch.



ICON Reacts to EPA Release of CAFO Information

A recent disclosure of personal information of 80,000 livestock producers by the EPA to activist groups strikes very close to home for Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska (ICON).

“It’s all about controlling your information and not allowing someone else to control you or your information,” said ICON president David Wright of Neligh. Believing in this philosophy goes back to ICON’s roots and pushed the organization, which works for the independent cattle producer, to fight the premise ID law created by the USDA back in 2006.

“This is precisely why ICON worked with Sen. Cap Dierks on making LB 632 the law, back in 2008,” said Wright. “LB 632 says that animal ID in Nebraska will be voluntary, if you don't want your information and your premise information to be controlled by the State then that should be your choice.”

ICON was instrumental in drafting the bill and lobbying for the bill when it was introduced by Dierks in the legislature. The shocking news of the release of personal and private information of any U.S. individual in states across the U.S. does not come as a surprise to the ICON members. When the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) was announced to the Ag industry, ICON and its members immediately began brainstorming to find a way to stop the introduction of NAIS and premise ID in Nebraska.

“It was a great day for Nebraska’s independent Livestock Producers,” said ICON Director Chris Abbott of Gordon about the passage of LB632 into law. “ICON demonstrated when important issues like this come up, it has the network and the people in place to influence the outcome in a positive fashion. Being forced to participate in a program which guaranteed no privacy for ranchers and farmers in the future was unacceptable in the eyes of ICON members.”    

ICON was supported by several Ag-related groups including Women Involved in Farm Economics, Farm Bureau, NE Veterinary Medicine Association and NE Livestock Marketing Association when they were working to protect private individuals, farmers and ranchers. Opposition arose from the Nebraska Cattlemen and the Nebraska Pork Producers. Farmers Union was neutral at the time. Time has proven trust is a valuable commodity and the misuse of personal and private information by government organizations challenges the trust U.S. citizens place in their elected officials and government offices.

“Cattle producers for many years have identified cattle with brands as IDs; the information registered with the state for brands is minimal,” said Wright. “If anyone needs more information they must contact the owner of the brand. With identity theft on the rise we need to be cautious with our information. Putting all your information in a data base to which you no longer have control of is not a good idea, whether it is the State or a private group.”



Food Processing Center to Mark 30th with Open House, Free Ice Cream June 9

            The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Food Processing Center will celebrate its 30th anniversary next month with tours and free ice cream.

            An open house is planned from 1-5 p.m. June 9 at the center, in the Food Industry Complex on UNL's East Campus. Tours of the center's pilot plants will be offered, as will interactive displays on sensory testing, marketing, food safety and more.

            And then there's the free ice cream. The FPC's Dairy Store is one of East Campus visitors' favorite stops, and the samples will remind open house participants why.

            Nebraska was one of the first states to develop a food processing center, and its center served as an example for other states to do the same. Early successes included assistance to a group of Panhandle farmers growing and processing carrots and onions as alternatives to sugarbeets and work with the Japanese licensee of the Nebraska Sucrose Ester patents, which led to FDA approval of the product for use in the United States.

            The center has a successful Food Entrepreneur Assistance Program used by business people all over the United States to help develop and expand food manufacturing businesses. Its pilot plants enable clients to perform production tests and develop new products using pilot-scale equipment. Areas of expertise in the plants include: extrusion, dairy production and research, high-pressure processing, ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, dehydration and more.

            Rolando Flores, director of the center, said the celebration of its history is important, but he's even more enthusiastic about the future. "We have to be more responsive, more efficient with fewer resources and more effectiveness," he said.

            Flores said the center will continue to hone technologies that can be used to ensure more plentiful and safer food and break new ground in areas like functional foods, which are foods that deliver specific health benefits.

            "We need to be responsive in new areas of technology, nutrition and health," he said.

            Flores emphasized, "We will always give support to mom and pop organizations because it's a very important segment, but the future is the strengthening and development of our applied research."

            "We cannot rest on our laurels," he added.



NRDs Encourage Well Owners to Address Concerns Early

Even with the recent rains and snow, the memory of the extremely hot and dry summer of 2012 still receive a lot of attention.  While the recent moisture is greatly appreciated the deficit from last year remains and conservation of the water resource is a high priority.

During 2012 there were several reported issues with wells that included reduced volume, pumping air and even running out of water.  A vast majority of the problems were in the eastern one-third of the state where groundwater aquifers are much different than those in central and western Nebraska.  Other contributing factors were noted to be the age and construction of the well.  In some cases the problems could be remediated by lowering the pump and in extreme situations a new well had to be constructed.

Many reports were received by the Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) with requests for assistance.  State law gives priority in water use to domestic uses over all other uses.  The claim is correct, however, it is usually the legal basis of a lawsuit between landowners in which a judge determines whether irrigation or other well owner is liable to a domestic well owner who has been harmed.   The legal process can take substantial time to reach a remedy or conclusion.  Thus, it is better if the owners involved can reach some other remedy to address the problem in the short term.  The law does not provide any entity with immediate authority to resolve individual well conflicts.

As we move towards summer, dry weather could once again prevail and agriculture producers may have to rely on irrigation to raise a crop.  Multiple days of irrigation use may result in water well issues similar to last year.  Rather than wait until a problem occurs, well owners are being encouraged to be proactive and realize there are resources available to help them understand the situation and available options.  Well owners should talk to a water well contractor soon to determine whether their well is operating as efficiently as possible and whether constructing a deeper well is necessary.

Nebraska’s NRDs are also stressing the importance of communicating with irrigating neighbors to try to coordinate use rather than use litigation as a remedy.

There is a wealth of information on private domestic wells on the University of Nebraska's website at http://droughtresources.unl.edu/drinkingwater.



Fortenberry introduces Farm Program Integrity Act

Last Week, Representative Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE) introduced legislation to tighten payment limits on federal farm commodity programs and close loopholes mega-farms use to evade limits, while ensuring small and mid-sized family farmers have the kind of support farm programs were designed to deliver.

“Under current law, the top ten percent of farm payment recipients collect nearly 70 percent of all payments,” said Representative Fortenberry. “The Farm Program Integrity Act seeks to level the playing field for farm families by establishing meaningful payment limitations on large farms and closing loopholes that currently benefit investors not actively engaged in farming. The savings from reforms established in the legislation would help ensure that the farm payments system is set on a more fiscally-sustainable path.”

According to Traci Bruckner, Assistant Policy Director at the Center for Rural Affairs, the bill includes a hard cap on marketing loan gains of $75,000 ($150,00 for a couple). The remainder of the payment limit cap would cover the total amount an individual can receive in safety-net payments generally, up to a grand total of $125,000 ($250,000 for a couple).

Additionally, the bill closes loopholes that allow people with ties to farmland whose management consists of little more than an occasional phone call to receive farm payments. The bill sets a measurable standard for someone to qualify as actively engaged in farming by providing management for the operation, and an exception for farming operations where there is only one manager of the farm.

Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), sponsor of virtually identical legislation in the U.S. Senate, commented on both the introduction of Rep. Fortenberry’s bill and the inclusion of these provisions in the draft Farm Bill proposed this week by Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).

“I was pleased to see Congressman Fortenberry introduce companion legislation to my payment limits reform bill in the House today,” said Grassley. “As the House Agriculture Committee considers a farm bill it would send a strong message if the House included the common sense and meaningful payment limit reforms in Congressman Fortenberry’s bill and that Senator Stabenow has included in her mark.”

“And I appreciate Chairwoman Stabenow’s continued commitment to farm program payments reform,” Grassley added. “When two-thirds of the farm payments go to the wealthiest 10 percent of farmers and there are loopholes that allow farm payments to go to non-farmers, Americans lose confidence that we’re using taxpayer money responsibly. By including my reforms, Chairwoman Stabenow is putting forward a mark that is defensible and effective in this area.”



America’s Hog Farmers Urge Christie To Veto Bill
America’s hog farmers and the National Pork Producers Council today urged New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie to veto legislation that would dictate how his state’s hog farmers raise and care for their animals.

The request comes after the New Jersey Senate today concurred with the state Assembly in approving a bill that bans the use of gestation stalls for sows. The vast majority of the country’s hog farmer use gestation stalls for pregnant sows, which allow for individualized care and eliminate aggression from other sows.

The American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Swine Veterinarians recognize gestation stalls and group housing as appropriate for providing for the well-being of sows during pregnancy. They point out that there is no scientific consensus on the best way to house gestating sows because each type of housing system has inherent advantages and disadvantages.

The legislation was pushed by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and other animal-rights groups despite the fact that few, if any, of New Jersey’s small number of hog farmers use gestation stalls.

“The bill is a solution in search of a problem,” said NPPC President-elect Dr. Howard Hill, a hog farmer from Iowa. “This is about HSUS using New Jersey to advance its national animal-rights agenda, and we hope Gov. Christie won’t go along with it.”

Over the past 12 years, HSUS has been lobbying other states to pass gestation stall bans. If approved, the New Jersey legislation would undermine animal-care standards adopted in 2004 by the state’s Department of Agriculture and upheld by the New Jersey Supreme Court in 2008.

“Decisions about animal well-being and housing should be determined by those who understand the animals and work with them every day,” Hill said. “We urge Gov. Christie to veto this legislation and allow farmers and veterinarians to decide the best way to care for their animals.”



ASA Welcomes Supreme Court Decision in Bowman v. Monsanto

American Soybean Association (ASA) President and Canton, Miss.-based soybean farmer Danny Murphy welcomed the Supreme Court’s unanimous ruling today in Bowman v. Monsanto. The court’s 9-0 ruling expresses support for the protection of intellectual property. Murphy commented on the case’s broad implications for agricultural innovation:

“By ruling unanimously in favor of maintaining the integrity of intellectual property laws, the Supreme Court has ensured that America’s soybean farmers, of which Mr. Bowman is one, can continue to rely on the technological innovation that has pushed American agriculture to the forefront of the effort to feed a global population projected to pass 9 billion by 2050.

“Revolutions in seed science have enabled soybean farmers to produce more food, feed, fiber and fuel with significantly reduced strain on resources. Without the protection of intellectual property that the court reaffirmed today, the companies on whom my fellow soybean farmers and I rely would have no real incentive to make the investments necessary to develop new soybean varieties that yield more, resist disease, weeds, and pests, are drought tolerant, or have improved nutritional profiles.

“Intellectual property protection sparked a sea change in investments by public and private seed breeders into improved seeds for soybeans and other crops. The Supreme Court’s decision today recognized that if you take away the incentive for those entities to strive for a better seed, they won’t make those investments and farmers eventually won’t have the benefits of improved seeds.”



APHIS Decision on 2,4-D, Dicamba-Tolerant Traits an Unnecessary Barrier for Soybean Farmers

Soybean farmers expressed their disappointment with today’s announcement that the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) will conduct a full environmental impact statement (EIS) on soybean, corn and cotton crops designed to tolerate the 2,4 dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and Dicamba herbicides. The move could delay the introduction of new products containing these herbicide-tolerant traits to the market for an additional two to four years, according to industry sources. Danny Murphy, a soybean farmer and president of the American Soybean Association (ASA) from Canton, Miss., noted the association’s frustration with USDA’s announcement:

“ASA is extremely disappointed in USDA’s decision that will serve only to place another barrier between soybean farmers and the tools and technologies farmers need to sustainably grow more food, fiber and fuel for our nation, all while using less of its resources. Farmers rely on our federal agencies to make regulatory decisions based on sound science. There is no reason for APHIS to conduct an additional EIS on top of the already-comprehensive environmental assessment that has been completed for these products. Even in APHIS’ own press release, the agency cites the sustained, safe use of 2,4-D since the 1940s and Dicamba since 1967.

“Farmers need new technologies such as crops that have herbicide-tolerant traits to manage weeds and weed resistance, and USDA’s decision will delay the availability of these new technologies. USDA’s decision also greatly undermines its previous commitments to eliminate delays in its regulatory reviews and utilize robust environmental assessments. Requiring a full EIS unjustifiably delays the availability of safe products to farmers, increases regulatory costs, chills product innovation, and ultimately reduces the efficiency and productivity of U.S. agriculture.

“My fellow farmers and I are in a race, as is all of American agriculture. We’re in a race to produce enough food and products to satisfy the demands of a global population projected to hit 9 billion people within the next 40 years. Our technology providers have undergone decades of research and development and the world’s most rigorous testing regimen, at a cost of hundreds of millions of dollars, to produce products that are declared safe by EPA and used safely by American farmers day after day for decades. Tools like 2,4-D and Dicamba-tolerant traits are critical to our mission as farmers, and for USDA to require an EIS without any scientific justification is troubling.”



Farming Practices to Minimize Ill Effects on Bees and Other Pollinators

Farmers being observant with seed treatments at planting and pesticide applications during the growing season could minimize ill effects on bee populations, according to Iowa State University entomologists.

In a U.S. Department of Agriculture and Environmental Protection Agency report released last week, several possible causes of national decline in honeybees were outlined, including habitat loss, poor diet, diseases, parasites and pesticide exposure. Research so far points to a combination of these factors that may be responsible for the 30 percent decline in honeybees annually since 2006.

Bees, through their role in pollination, are considered to be directly or indirectly responsible for about every third bite of food we eat, according to the USDA. Crops that are predominantly pollinated by honeybees have an estimated value of more than $215 billion annually worldwide.

Matt O’Neal, Iowa State associate professor of entomology, and Erin Hodgson, assistant professor and ISU Extension and Outreach entomologist, said the insecticides are used to protect the germinating seed from pests.

They advised cleaning seed treatment residues from planting equipment away from fields and minimizing off-site dust movement from treated seeds. By taking these precautions, farmers could help minimize bee exposure to a class of insecticides, called neonicotinoids, that some studies have identified as a particular concern.

Using the recommended rate of lubricants that aid the flow of seed through planters is another way to minimize exposure to bees, as well as being aware of wind speed and direction around flowering plants when applying pesticides, they said.

Alerting local beekeepers of upcoming pesticide applications is an important practice. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship maintains an Iowa Sensitive Crops Directory that includes the locations of hives at http://www.iowaagriculture.gov/horticultureandFarmersMarket.asp.

O’Neal said farmers can encourage bee populations by growing native perennial plants around agricultural fields to improve foraging habitat. He includes specific recommendations in a recent ISU publication by the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Conserving Beneficial Insects with Native Plants (http://www.leopold.iastate.edu/pubs).

Hodgson and O’Neal have written an article about bee health recommendations for Integrated Crop Management News; find it at www.extension.iastate.edu/CropNews/2013/0508onealewh.htm.



New School Lunch Beef Recipes Win Approval from Kids, Foodservice Directors

After participating in a pilot program at schools around the country, many students and school foodservice directors agree: The Rock and Roll Beef Wrap is delicious and nutritious. The same goes for Spy Thai Beef, Sweet Potato Beef Mash-up, Wrangler’s Beef Chili and Sweet and Sloppy Joes.

“Awesome’ was a common compliment from youngsters who taste-tested and named five all-new ground beef recipes created by the Beef Checkoff Program for school lunches. School foodservice directors noted the “homemade’ flavor of the recipes and the use of economical, widely available ingredients. Another selling point for school staff? The meals pair the timeless appeal of ground beef with “generous’ amounts of vegetables that young people might not otherwise consume.

Some of the new recipes are already on menus at K-12 test schools in several states and are being shared with school foodservice professionals across the country.

Perhaps most important, the recipes help meet new government nutrition guidelines for the national school breakfast/lunch program. The five beef recipes meet all school nutrition guidelines for fat, calories and sodium and help incorporate a variety of food groups, such as meat, vegetables and grains, into meals. The recipes all contain 10 essential nutrients, including fiber, which was recognized as a nutrition concern in the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

The recipes were triple-tested in the checkoff's test kitchen. The national beef checkoff and state beef councils in Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri and Washington then worked with local school districts to field-test the recipes and gather feedback from students and foodservice directors.

The checkoff is aware that retaining beef as a viable protein in the school lunch program is integral, and this pilot program helps accomplish that critical goal.

“We have very close foodservice relationships in Colorado, so we were able to get one of the state’s largest school districts on board with the pilot program,’ says Julie Moore, director of nutrition and education for the Colorado Beef Council. “The icing on the cake, so to speak, for us was the collaboration in creating great trial recipes and the entire test process."

“This project gave us direct contact with influential school audiences – staff and the students – who are both our consumers," said Michigan beef producer Garry Wiley, co-chair of the checkoff’s national food and nutrition subcommittee. “We were also able to deliver real tools in the form of recipes. This has been a cooperative project that really supports efforts to ensure beef remains on school lunch menus as a nutritious, delicious meal option for our children.’

Wiley also notes that this kind of effort continues to build vital beef’s visibility and credibility with consumers of all ages.

For easy, kid-inspired meals, try all five recipes (actual food critic comments included):
-    Spy Thai Beef – Asian themed, savory ground beef mixture that pairs perfectly with the crunch of fresh veggies.
-    Wrangler’s Beef Chili – A classic ground beef and bean chili recipe, accompanied by three variations to please any palate.
-    Sweet and Sloppy Joe – A sweet and spicy twist on the classic sandwich.
-    Sweet Potato Beef Mash-Up – Sweet potatoes and ground beef meet up in this Southwestern breakfast-for-lunch.
-    Rock and Roll Beef Wrap – Scrumptious, nutritious lean ground beef, veggies and grains all wrapped up.

Visit www.BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com for consumer versions of the school recipes.



Ag, Fertilizer Industries to Meet in Kansas City

The International Plant Nutrition Institute (IPNI) is a leading co-sponsor for an upcoming conference, to be held Aug. 13-15 in Kansas City, Mo., to identify solutions to the complex challenges surrounding improved Nitrogen (N) Use Efficiency.

"Higher-yielding crops require wise nutrient input management to achieve realistically attainable yields, and to sustain and improve the soil fertility resource," says Dr. Cliff Snyder, Nitrogen Program Director for IPNI. "Increasing weather uncertainties, and the greater need to protect water quality and air quality, are making it more important than ever to understand the challenges and opportunities to improve farmer profitability while also protecting the environment."

Some small-scale studies have demonstrated that N losses to the environment can be minimized without jeopardizing profitable crop yields. Yet, N losses to the atmosphere as nitrous oxide and ammonia, and nitrate-N losses to surface water and groundwater continue at concerning levels that may pose serious environmental and human health threats.

Private and public sector leaders, who have practical experience in optimizing agricultural N use, and policy experts, will be presenting the latest management science. Case studies will be shared as examples of success, and opportunities for continued improvements in N use efficiency and effectiveness will be revealed.

Managers and advisers on cropland N management will be meeting with other stakeholders to explore the most effective and efficient N sources, implementation of 4R nutrient management, and adoption of technology tools to meet economic, environmental and social goals. Practicing agronomists, crop advisers and extension workers are especially invited to the conference.

All conference attendees can participate in Cafe discussion sessions designed to recommend actions and policies to improve N management with existing knowledge and technologies. Nationally recognized private and government VIPs will summarize the discussions and the stakeholder input in charting our way forward in optimizing N management.

More details on the conference agenda, registration, and lodging may be found at: https://www.soils.org/.



Mosaic Delays Potash Expansion

Mosaic Co., one of the world's largest fertilizer producers, said Monday it will delay plans to expand potash production in western Canada while it waits for better conditions.  The company hopes to proceed with the expansion after 12 to 24 months, Chief Financial Officer Larry Stranghoener told investors in a conference call.  He said, "We think that by waiting a year or two we may see improved labor conditions in Saskatchewan that might help bring down the cost of this project," Stranghoener said. He added that the company may have "better clarity about the long-term supply picture in the potash industry."

Demand for potash, a key nutrient used to fertilize crops, has surged in recent years as demand and prices for grains have climbed, prompting Mosaic and other producers to expand capacity. The expansions have caused some concern in the industry about a potential glut of capacity.



Sales to Tractors, Combine Continue to be Strong

According to the Association of Equipment Manufacturer's monthly "Flash Report," the sale of all tractors in the U.S. for April were up 6% compared to the same month last year.

For the four months in 2013, a total of 59,436 tractors were sold which compares to 54,359 sold thru April, 2012, representing an 9% increase year to date. Two-wheel drive smaller tractors (under 40 HP) were up 4% from last year, while 40 & under 100 HP were down 4%. Sales of 2-wheel drive 100+ HP were up 36%, while 4-wheel drive tractors were up 4%.  Combine sales were up 59% for the month.

Two-wheel drive smaller tractors (under 40 HP) are up 5% over last year, while 40 & under 100 HP are up 5%. Sales of 2-wheel drive 100+ HP are up 30%, while 4-wheel drive tractors are up 18%.  Sales of combines for the first four months totaled 2,980, an increase of 57% over the same period in 2012.



AgriBank Reports First Quarter 2013 Financial Results

Friday,  St. Paul MN based AgriBank announced financial results for the first quarter of 2013.

“Strong fundamentals in agriculture and efficient funding contributed to continuing strong performance. Enterprises in the AgriBank District continue to perform well and mineral income continues to grow.  We anticipate continued loan growth and strong earnings,” said AgriBank CEO Bill York. “This spring we are seeing the effects of the drought reduced significantly, but a late spring and other factors may impact the earnings of some of our customers this year. Credit quality remains strong and we continue to add to our already strong capital base to position us for expected long term growth and potential risks in this vibrant sector.”

Results of Operations
Net income rose 22% to $140.0 million for the first quarter of 2013, up from $114.8 million in the same period of 2012.

Net interest income was $128.3 million compared with $109.0 million in the same period in 2012, driven primarily by an increase in retail volume, including significant growth in loan participations purchased from the AgDirect equipment financing program. Net interest income remains elevated as the Bank continues to take advantage of a favorable interest rate environment by re-pricing callable debt at lower costs.

Loan loss provisions decreased 82% to $0.5 million with current period provisions primarily related to growth in AgDirect.

Non-interest income was up 16% to $40.9 million from $35.3 million in 2012. The increase was attributable to a $4.7 million (38%) increase in income from mineral rights held by AgriBank, the majority of which are in North Dakota.

Loan Portfolio
Total loans declined 3% to $67.7 billion at the end of the quarter, reflecting seasonal paydowns that occur during the first quarter of the year as customers sold crops after year end. AgriBank’s loan portfolio credit quality remains strong with 99.8% non-adverse loans at the end of the period, compared with 99.7% at the end of last year. Nonaccrual loans declined to $51.2 million from $51.4 million at the end of last year while the allowance for loan losses was $12.8 million at March 31, 2013 compared with $13.3 million at the end of last year.

The farm sector continues to perform well despite the effects of the 2012 drought. Multi-peril crop insurance (MPCI) generally mitigated the economic impact of the drought for most crop producers. USDA currently forecasts net farm income of $112.8 billion for 2012, 4.2% lower than 2011. The increased prices for grain commodities are having some negative impact on livestock, poultry, ethanol, and dairy producers who purchase these inputs. Some of this impact is negated by the use of hedging and forward pricing that occurs in these agriculture sectors.

For 2013, the USDA is forecasting net farm income to increase by $15.4 billion to a record $128.2 billion. Higher levels of crop production are forecast but are partially offset by lower projected commodity prices. For this same period, net cash income is projected to decline by $13.2 billion to $123.5 billion. The different trajectories for net farm income and net cash income are mainly due to expectations of substantial increases in the value of corn inventories during the year. Value of inventory change is included in net farm income but only affects net cash income when inventories are sold. The value of corn inventories is expected to rise based on projections of average corn yields and historic corn-acreage levels.

Drought conditions continue in parts of the U.S. but have improved since the fall of 2012. Much of the Midwest now has adequate moisture while parts of the western Corn Belt continue to be in a drought situation. An exceptionally cold spring and excessive precipitation also threaten planting progress on several spring planted crops which could have a negative impact on 2013 crop production.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
Cash and investments (substantially all of which are held for liquidity purposes) totaled $12.8 billion at the end of the quarter compared with $12.1 billion at the end of last year. The Bank’s end of the period liquidity position represented 165 days coverage of maturing debt obligations, well above the 90 day minimum established by the Farm Credit Administration, the Bank’s independent regulator.

Total capital increased $102.2 million during the period to $4.4 billion, driven primarily by earnings of $140.0 million and a reduction in other comprehensive loss of $26.0 million offset by $68.2 million in patronage to Associations.

NEBRASKA CROP PRODUCTION REPORT

Based on May 1 conditions, Nebraska's 2013 winter wheat crop is forecast at 42.9 million bushels, down 20 percent from last year’s crop and the smallest production since 1944, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Nebraska Field Office.  Average yield is forecast at 33 bushels per acre, down 8 bushels from last year and the lowest since 2002.

Acreage to be harvested for grain is estimated at 1.3 million acres, unchanged from last year.  This would be 90 percent of the planted acres, below last year’s harvested percent and the smallest percentage since 2004.

May 1 hay stocks of 610 thousand tons are down 43 percent from last year and the lowest stocks since 2001.  



USDA: US Winter Wheat Production Down 10 Percent from 2012

Winter wheat production is forecast at 1.49 billion bushels, down 10 percent from 2012. Area harvested for grain is forecast at 32.7 million acres, down 6 percent from last year. As of May 1, the United States yield is forecast at 45.4 bushels per acre, down 1.8 bushels from the previous year.

Hard Red Winter production, at 768 million bushels, is down 23 percent from a year ago. Soft Red Winter, at 501 million bushels, is up 19 percent from 2012. White Winter, at 217 million bushels, is down 2 percent from a year ago. Of the White Winter production, 11.4 million bushels are Hard White and 205 million bushels are Soft White.



UNL Scientists Experiment with Corn Silage in Finishing Diets

            University of Nebraska-Lincoln scientists are experimenting with the use of corn silage in cattle finishing diets, finding that it can be an economical replacement for corn in feedlot diets containing distillers grains.

            On another front, research is being conducted into feeding distillers grains that have some corn oil removed, so the oil can be used in biofuels.

            Corn silage long was a staple of cattle diets, particularly in times of high corn prices, since it allows feeders to use the entire corn plant, but animal scientist Galen Erickson thinks UNL's current research may be the nation's first that looks into evaluating elevated levels of corn silage in finishing diets containing distillers grains.

            Distillers grains are a byproduct of ethanol production and have become an increasingly important element of cattle feed, particularly in Nebraska, which relies on cattle, corn and ethanol production like no other state.

            "I'm a big fan because I think it fits our state," Erickson said. "As corn becomes more expensive, it's quite economical."

            "We're on a mission to improve the use of corn residue, whether grazed, , baled, or harvested as silage as long as it's done in a sustainable way," the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources scientist added.

            "The objective of our experiment was to determine the performance effects, carcass characteristics and economics of feeding elevated levels of corn silage and MDGS (modified distillers grains with solubles) as a partial replacement of corn in finishing diets," Erickson said.

            The research, which partially replaced corn with the more economical corn silage, found that as corn silage increased, there was a slight increase in feed-to-gain ratio and a decrease in dry matter intake and average daily gain. However, ADG and F:G were improved when corn silage was fed with MDGS.

            Scientists also studied the economics of this approach, comparing the impacts at different price levels of corn and cost of silage. They found that under certain conditions, it makes economic sense, and "it especially fits for some of our smaller producers," Erickson said.

            "In general, corn silage in combination with MDGS can be utilized to partially replace corn in finishing diets," the UNL scientists concluded in a summary of their work. "Cattle performance is reduced with increased level of corn silage in finishing diets containing MDGS. However, feeding corn silage with MDGS is better than without MDGS for average daily gain and feed to gain ratio."

            As for the de-oiling research, Erickson said it's yet another way to take better advantage of the synergy in Nebraska's mix of corn, beef and ethanol. Erickson and his colleague Terry Klopfenstein are comparing the effects of feeding condensed distillers solubles, and distillers grains plus solubles, with and without corn oil removed in steer diets.

            Condensed distillers solubles (CDS) are a liquid byproduct and distillers grains plus solubles are a semisolid byproduct, both from ethanol production. CDS are generally added back to distillers grains before feeding, but earlier IANR research found they can be fed separately in cattle diets.

            Ethanol plants can remove some corn oil from the CDS; it can be sold for about 30-35 cents a pound to be developed into biofuels. So, IANR scientists wanted to determine how performance of cattle fed the de-oiled byproduct compares to that of cattle fed regular CDS or regular distillers grains plus solubles.

            Findings so far are surprising. Scientists found that when CDS are fed at a higher percentage of cattle diets, removal of corn oil improves digestion in forage-based diets. In feedlot diets, two experiments have shown either no impact or a slight decrease in value for finishing cattle. However, the impact on performance is much smaller than predicted, or had no impact at all. More work is under way.



NE Pork Chop Scramble

The Nebraska Pork Producers Association is getting ready to hit the links for the 12th Annual Pork Chop Scramble.  This year’s four person, best-ball golf scramble will be hosted at Quarry Oaks Golf Course, near Ashland, NE on Friday, June 28th with a shot gun start at 9:00 am.

They're excited to bring the annual fun, fundraising event to the Quarry Oaks Golf Course --- the most scenic and top rated golf Course in Nebraska!  Throughout the Quarry Oaks Golf Course, golfers are treated to magnificent views of native flowers, abundant wildlife and the scenic Platte River Valley. The diversity of the course includes spectacular elevation changes, water on several holes, and an abandoned quarry area.

Nebraska’s pork producers, allied members, and friends of the pork industry are invited to share in a day filled with golf and BBQ, while raising money for continuing education scholarships for Nebraska’s young, agricultural leaders.

You may submit your sponsorship registration and golf registration by visiting www.nepork.org. 



2013 Iowa Cash Rental Rates Survey Results Available

Rental rates for Iowa farmland have been pushed significantly higher by the favorable corn and soybean prices farmers have enjoyed since 2010. This trend continued in 2013, but the rate of increase slowed considerably.

Results from the most recent survey of farmland rental rates conducted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach showed that the average estimated cash rent for corn and soybean land in the state for 2013 was $270 per acre, an increase of $18 per acre or 7 percent from last year. This compares to increases of 16 percent in 2011 and 18 percent in 2012. Lower crop yields due to prolonged dry weather and lower price forecasts for the 2013 crop have tempered the optimism about prospective profits.

Average rents were moderately higher in all nine crop reporting districts, with increases ranging from 13 percent in east central Iowa to 4 percent in southwest Iowa.

Overall Average of Typical Cash Rents 2009-2013 Corn and Soybean Acres
                             2009        2010        2011       2012        2013 
District 1 (NW)      187         188          224         267          283
District 2 (NC)       196         191          220         277          294
District 3 (NE)       186         192          223          266          281
District 4 (WC)      196         195          227          279          294
District 5 (C)         197          195          226          275          297
District 6 (EC)       193          196          219          252          284
District 7 (SW)      170          176          213          246          257
District 8 (SC)       146          151          177         193          210
District 9 (SE         173          169          198         217          229

Typical rental rates per bushel of corn yield, soybean yield and CSR point were computed for each county and are available in the full report, Cash Rental Rates for Iowa 2013 Survey.  Typical charges for land growing oats and hay, for grazing pasture and corn stalks, and for renting hunting rights are also included in the report.

The intent of the Iowa State survey is to report typical rents being paid each year, not the highest nor the lowest values heard through informal sources. Rental values were estimated by asking people familiar with land rental markets what they thought were typical rates in their county. The number of responses received this year was 1,703, a 20 percent increase from last year. Of the total responses, 50 percent came from farmers, 27 percent from landowners, 13 percent from professional farm managers, 8 percent from agricultural lenders, and 2 percent from other professionals.

The Cash Rental Rates for Iowa 2013 Survey is available online at http://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/wholefarm/pdf/c2-10.pdf.  



Lucas & Peterson Release House Farm Bill That Saves Nearly $40 Billion

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Frank Lucas of Oklahoma and Ranking Member Collin Peterson of Minnesota released a discussion draft of the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management (FARRM) Act of 2013 today. FARRM is a bipartisan bill that cuts spending, reduces the size of government, and makes common-sense reforms to policy. It is the product of a multi-year process that included auditing for effectiveness and efficiency every single policy under the jurisdiction of the House Agriculture Committee.

"I'm pleased to release this bipartisan legislation with my friend and colleague Collin Peterson. It's a responsible and balanced bill that addresses Americans' concerns about federal spending and reforms farm and nutrition policy to improve efficiency and accountability. We will advance our bill in the Committee next week and then begin preparing for full House consideration this summer," said Chairman Frank D. Lucas. 

“The discussion draft the Chairman and I released today sets us on a path to finally completing a five-year farm bill. It closely resembles the bipartisan bill passed by the Agriculture Committee last summer, including a common-sense commodity title that will work for all producers, much-needed reforms to dairy programs and continued support for the sugar program. The bill also builds on the investments the 2008 Farm Bill made to fruits and vegetables, farmers markets and local food systems. While I do believe that there are more responsible ways to reform nutrition programs, the bottom line is that this is the first step in the process and it is past time to pass a five-year farm bill,” said Ranking Member Collin Peterson.

The text of the bill can be found here... http://agriculture.house.gov/sites/republicans.agriculture.house.gov/files/farm%20bill/FARRMBillChairsMark2013.pdf.   Highlights include:
-    FARRM saves nearly $40 billion in mandatory funds, including the immediate sequestration of $6 billion.
-    FARRM repeals or consolidates more than 100 programs.
-    FARRM eliminates direct payments, which farmers received regardless of market conditions.
-    FARRM streamlines and reforms commodity policy saving nearly $14 billion while also giving producers a choice in how best to manage risk.
-    FARRM includes the first reforms to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) since the Welfare Reform Act of 1996 saving more than $20 billion.
-    FARRM consolidates 23 conservation programs into 13, improving program delivery to producers and saving more than $6 billion.
-    FARRM builds on previous investments to fruit and vegetable production, farmers markets, and local food systems.
-    FARRM includes several regulatory relief measures to help mitigate burdens farmers, ranchers, and rural communities face.

A summary of the legislation can be found here... http://agriculture.house.gov/sites/republicans.agriculture.house.gov/files/farm%20bill/2013_FARRMSummary.pdf.   The House Agriculture Committee will consider the legislation during a business meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 15 at 10 am ET.



Checkoff Study Shows Biodiesel Production Benefits Poultry and Livestock Farmers

Ever heard the myth about biodiesel increasing the price of animal feed? Well, it’s really not true.

The federal Renewable Fuel Standard calls for 1.28 billion gallons of biodiesel use in 2013, a 28 percent increase from the previous year. This requirement bodes well for U.S. soybean farmers whose soy oil remains the primary feedstock for U.S. biodiesel manufacturing. But it’s also good news for U.S. poultry and livestock farmers, who will benefit from every gallon of biodiesel produced, according to the Economic Impacts of Biodiesel Production, a soy-checkoff-funded study. Here are two ways animal farmers gain from biodiesel production:

1. Lower relative meal prices
As more soy oil is processed for biodiesel production, more soy meal is available for livestock feed.

"Demand for biodiesel creates demand for soy oil, which, in turn, lowers the cost of soy meal and the price of rations for our poultry and livestock farmers," says Lewis Bainbridge, USB secretary and a soybean farmer from Ethan, S.D.

The study found biodiesel’s demand for soy oil has lowered feed prices by as much as $48 per ton.

2. Increased animal carcass value
In 2011, biodiesel producers utilized 1.29 billion pounds of animal fats, which contributed to nearly 30 percent of the total production. Growth in biodiesel production has led to increased animal carcass value and higher value per head harvested for poultry and livestock farmers. According to U.S. Department of Agriculture, increased demand for animal fats has generated an additional $16.79 on beef value per head.

"All soybean farmers should ask for and use biodiesel," says Bainbridge. "It supports animal farmers, it decreases our dependence on foreign oil and it’s homegrown and renewable – we can make more with every new crop."



FUELS Act Passes Senate

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) today hailed the passage of the Farmers Undertake Environmental Land Stewardship (FUELS) Act (S. 496), which was passed by unanimous consent by the Senate as an amendment to the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which will be considered by the Senate next week. The bipartisan legislation, introduced by Sens. Inhofe (R-Okla.) and Pryor (D-Ark.) revises the Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) program enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). SPCC regulations call for agricultural operations to develop an SPCC plan if the farm has an above ground oil storage capacity greater than 1,320 gallons or a buried oil storage capacity of 42,000 gallons.

Under the FUELS Act, the burden of the SPCC regulation is eased by raising exemption and self - certified levels for on - farm fuel storage. The legislation exempts farms with a storage capacity of 6,000 gallons or less from having to develop an SPCC plan. The legislation also allows more operations to self-certify by raising the self-certify level to up to 20,000 gallons of fuels storage. Operations with greater than 20,000 gallons will be required to have a Professional Engineer (P.E.) certified spill plan.

“While NCBA would have liked an exemption level of 10,000 gallons like the original language called for, ultimately the Senate-passed versionof the FUELS Act will save many farmers and ranchers from expensive spill plans,” said NCBA Deputy Environmental Counsel Ashley McDonald. “NCBA will continue to work with the House to get the legislation passed in that chamber.”

McDonald added that the FUELS Act also excludes from calculation of aggregate above ground fuel storage all tanks that have a capacity of 1,000 gallons or less and all tanks holding animal feed ingredients approved for livestock feed by the Food & Drug Administration, a provision very important to cattle producers.



HSUS/UEP Agreement Kept Out of Senate Farm Bill

After announcing last week that it planned to include language in the draft farm bill legislation that would codify an agreement between the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and the United Egg Producers (UEP) to seek federally mandated production practices for the egg industry, the Senate Agriculture Committee has decided to not include the proposal in the farm bill which is set for markup on May 14. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), which had stated it would oppose the farm bill should the HSUS/UEP agreement be included in the legislation, reached out to its membership and cattle producers across the country to make them aware of the proposal.

NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Colin Woodall said that cattlemen and women made their voices heard loud and clear that they, not the federal government, are the ones who know how to best raise their animals.

“NCBA is pleased that the Senate Agriculture Committee decided to not include the HSUS/UEP legislation in the farm bill,” said Woodall. “This proposal would have been devastating to all of agriculture. Allowing the federal government to mandate on -farm production practices and basically telling farmers and ranchers how to do their jobs federal mandate telling farmers and ranchers how to dotheir jobs is unacceptable.”

House Agriculture CommitteeChairman Frank Lucas (R-Okla.) has said that his shop will do its mark-up on May 15. The HSUS/UEP proposal could be debated as an amendment to the House Agriculture Committee's farm bill.

Woodall added that NCBA sees the removal of the language from the farm bill as a short-term victory, but there is the possibility of other Senators bringing the legislation up as an amendment either during the markup next week or when the bill goes to the floor.

“We do expect this issue to still come up. This is not the end of it, and this is still very much a real threat to all of us in livestock production,” he said. “If we allow this agreement to move forward and be passed into law, it will be the first time that Congress has ever dictated a production practice for animal agriculture. Congress has never told us how to lay that egg or produce that calf. This would change the dynamic of that drastically.”



ASA Voices Support for Creation of Trade Post at USDA

In a letter to House and Senate Agriculture Committee leadership this week, The American Soybean Association and multiple fellow agricultural groups in support of the creation of an Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Citing the importance of trade to the agriculture industry, the groups pointed to areas in which USDA could modernize its approach to agricultural trade issues.

"An Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs will provide a singular focus on trade and foster more effective coordination of transparent, rules-based trade policies in other USDA agencies," wrote the groups. "Such a position will bring unified high level representation to key trade negotiations with senior, foreign officials and within the Executive Branch. It will also allow future administrations to recruit an Under Secretary who has extensive experience in international trade negotiation and policy issues. Furthermore, the creation of this Under Secretary position would help streamline management, create greater efficiencies and enhance emphasis in the Office of the Under Secretary responsible for key domestic programs."



AMI Releases Pork Plant Video Tour with Temple Grandin

The American Meat Institute released a video tour of a pork slaughter plant hosted by leading animal welfare expert Temple Grandin, Ph.D., professor of animal science at Colorado State University. The video is available on the Institute's dedicated animal welfare Website.

Also released with the video was a print companion brochure that may be downloaded from AnimalHandling.org. Single copies also are available upon request from the AMI. The pork plant video tour and brochure augment the beef plant video tour, also hosted by Grandin, which was released in August 2012. Since its release, the beef plant video has been viewed nearly 50,000 times on line and in countless classrooms and other settings.

The latest pork video tour starts on the farm in a finishing barn, depicts pig loading on trailers, unloading at the plant, stunning of pigs to make them insensible to pain, which is required by law, the bleeding process, carcass chilling and fabrication of carcasses into cuts that consumers eat. The video details the widespread use of the AMI animal welfare audit, developed by Grandin for the industry in 1997, and now a global standard.

Grandin selected the two plants that are featured in the video as representative of typical beef and pork slaughter plants. She was on-site for the taping and narrated the videos in her own words.

"I'm really pleased the American Meat Institute is working on putting these videos out because I think we need to show people what's done in the industry when it's just done right in a typical large plant," Grandin says in the introduction to the video. The brochure also includes a series of commonly asked questions about animal welfare with answers provided by Dr. Grandin.

To view the videos or download the brochures, visit www.AnimalHandling.org.



Delayed Planting in Northeast China Constrains 2013 Corn Area Growth

As is occurring in the United States, unseasonably cold and wet weather is causing farmers to delay planting as much as two weeks in Northeast China, China's largest corn production region. In the northernmost province of Heilongjiang, only a small proportion of land is planted and further delays are expected to cause farmers to switch out of corn and plant soybeans according to China's JCI Intelligence and Yumi.com, two agricultural market reporting firms. However, JCI reports that corn acreage is expanding in Inner Mongolia, and this partly offsets the reduced acreage in Heilongjiang. Delayed planting may also affect yields as farmers turn to shorter-season and lower-yielding varieties, and make the region more vulnerable to an early frost.

The possible reduction of corn sown area in Northeast China may be mitigated by expanded corn sown area in North China.

"Peanut area expanded last year and this reduced corn sown area expansion on the North China Plain. However, peanut prices are currently 20 percent below last year, which could provide more opportunity for corn area to expand in that region this year," said Dr. Bryan Lohmar, U.S. Grains Council's director in China.

Soybeans also receive some price support. While corn prices are roughly at or just below the levels during last year's Northeast planting season, soybean prices are 10-15 percent higher than last year. Higher prices, coupled with lower-yielding, short-season corn varieties and higher corn production costs, also make expected soybean returns vis-à-vis expected corn returns look better than in than past years in the northern parts of the Northeast production region.

Heilongjiang Province has seen corn area expand significantly in the past few years as high corn prices have caused more and more farmers to switch out of soybeans and into corn.

Statistics from China's National Grain and Oilseed Information Center show corn area in Heilongjiang rose more than 1 million hectares (2.47 million acres) from 2009 to 2012, comprising more than 26 percent of the 3.8 million hectare (9.4 million acre) expansion in corn sown area over that period in China. Heilongjiang is also China's biggest corn producing province, with 14.6 percent of China's 2012 corn production.

The four Northeast provinces (Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning, and Inner Mongolia) together produced 42.9 percent of China's corn in 2012. The wet weather in the Northeast is good for soil moisture but is raising corn planting costs as farmers reduce machine planting and instead plant by hand to be sure to get corn planted on time.

The five North China Plain Provinces (Shandong, Henan, Hebei, Anhui, and Jiangsu) together produced 29.3 percent of China's corn in 2012. Most corn planting on the North China Plain occurs in July, after harvesting a winter wheat crop in the region.



Responding to Challenges of U.S. Sheep & Lamb Industry

USDA is taking a multi-faceted approach to supporting the American sheep and lamb industry, working with researchers and market analysts to identify strategies and goals.

The U.S. sheep and lamb industry has been shrinking for decades as the numbers of sheep and producers have declined since World War II. Consolidation of the sheep packing industry, higher feed and energy costs, continuous loses to predation, and lower consumption, coupled with competition from imports of lamb cuts, have taken their toll on U.S. producers. In response to industry needs, USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has been working with the American Lamb Board (ALB) and the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) on initiatives aimed at ensuring the long-term viability of the industry.

The ALB recently initiated a study to identify the challenges, propose solutions, and develop strategies to strengthen the industry's competitive advantage. By working with a marketing firm and using data and services offered by USDA, ALB hopes this study's findings will help return the industry to profitability. AMS is ready to assist ALB as they lay the groundwork and identify goals and benchmarks.

Another way AMS is assisting the industry is in identifying opportunities to improve Livestock Mandatory Reporting (LMR) for lamb. LMR was established to collect and publish price and volume information to encourage competition in the marketplace. However, given the consolidation of the industry, it has become difficult to publish lamb market information on a consistent basis due to the LMR confidentiality requirements. Last fall, ASI commissioned the Livestock Marketing Information Center (LMIC) to conduct a study of the LMR program, and over the course of 5 months, met with AMS to learn more about how USDA administers the lamb reporting program.

The final report proposed improvement recommendations to lamb reporting. Some of the recommendations included lowering the reporting thresholds for packers and importers, evaluating the confidentiality policy for LMR, and eliminating categories and reports that do not have utility.AMS has reviewed the report and is engaged with ASI to determine the best solutions for the recommendations. While some of the recommendations will require regulatory changes, many of the proposals can be addressed easily. In fact, AMS has already eliminated the western regional lamb reports, changed the National daily lamb report to a weekly report, modified the reported weight categories, and removed unused purchase type categories.

AMS is working with ASI on other projects, such as determining ways in which slaughter lambs are bought to ensure that the LMR purchase types are still relevant. AMS is also working to develop strategies to more accurately define the lamb maturity window for the grade standards and will work with FSIS on a more agreeable term for "yearling mutton" such as "yearling lamb." AMS and ASI are cooperating on the potential development of a lamb tenderness standard, and the potential development of a non-hormone treated lamb export certification protocol with the European Union.

The ALB and ASI recently received USDA approval to explore lamb instrument grading, through funding received from the National Sheep Industry Improvement Center. The project will be a two phased approach to finalizing USDA's standardization of the concept and evaluating the benefits and return on the investment to garner industry acceptance.

The USDA is committed to working with our partners in the industry to not only meet these challenges but to succeed in creating an industry that provides quality products to consumers and increased producer returns here at home.



Land O'Lakes, Inc. Reports First Quarter Financial Results

Land O’Lakes, Inc. today announced first quarter financial results, reporting quarterly net sales of $4.2 billion and net earnings of $72 million. Sales were up 8 percent from the same period last year. Company officials described the first quarter performance as “solid and in line with expectations” noting that gross profit for the first quarter increased by 6 percent versus the prior year, while net earnings were down 16 percent due mainly to higher spending on advertising and promotion of new products across the businesses.

“Land O'Lakes has begun 2013 with solid sales growth and strong operating performance in our business units,” said Chris Policinski, president and CEO of Land O'Lakes. “Our Crop Inputs business, which is operated under Winfield Solutions LLC, had a record year in 2012 and continued to deliver strong earnings in the first quarter of 2013, slightly below prior year because of weather-related timing of spring planting,” he added.

Land O'Lakes retail dairy business had an impressive first quarter, primarily due to strong earnings in its flagship branded butter products. Innovative offerings continued to be added to Dairy Foods such as the new Sauté Express® Sauté Starter. New acquisitions in Dairy Foods, such as the Kozy Shack line of premium refrigerated desserts, have also begun to produce significant earnings. Total Dairy Foods gross profit increased by 56 percent versus the prior year, which was offset by higher spending on advertising and promotion.

“Our Feed business, operated through Purina Animal Nutrition LLC, showed improved operating profit in 2013 as well,” Policinski added. “Our Layers egg business was challenged by high feed costs and low commodity egg prices, generating results similar to the prior year,” he added.
 
“After reporting record sales and earnings in 2012, Land O'Lakes is building momentum to achieve even stronger earnings performance and accelerated growth,” Policinski said. “In 2013 we have increased spending on advertising and promotion of new products which will generate ongoing benefits. Agribusiness and food production are among the greatest growth industries of our era and we are well-positioned to capture this opportunity with strong brands, leading market positions and innovative growth strategies,” he added.

Long term debt was essentially unchanged at the end of the quarter, at $1.1 billion.  Short term debt levels were seasonally higher at March 30, at approximately $705 million, up from $170 million as of December 31, 2012.  The increase was due to seasonal working capital requirements.

Land O'Lakes Ranked 194 On Fortune 500
Land O’Lakes moved up 16 places on the Fortune 500 list this week to number 194. This is the eighth consecutive year Land O’Lakes has moved up in the rankings.  Last year, Fortune ranked Land O’Lakes 210; in 2005, the company ranked 279. Land O’Lakes was one of 19 Minnesota companies on the Fortune 500 list this year.  In 2012, Land O’Lakes reported record sales of $14.1 billion and record net earnings of $241 million. Three business segments achieved record sales. The company returned $113 million to members in 2012, the fourth consecutive year in which member returns exceeded $100 million.



More Delays Ahead for Monsanto, Dow

The U.S. Department of Agriculture will conduct environmental assessments of new corn, soybean and cotton seeds genetically engineered to withstand herbicides, further delaying the possible launch of products from Monsanto Co. (MON) and Dow Chemical Co. (DOW).

The new crops are the first to be genetically modified to withstand applications of 2,4-D and dicamba herbicides. Dow has developed 2,4-D-tolerant corn, which it originally was hoping to sell to farmers for the 2013 growing season, as well as 2,4-D-tolerant soybeans. Monsanto has developed dicamba-tolerant soybeans and cotton.

The USDA announced Friday it would prepare environmental impact statements for the products, saying they were required before final approval because the products "may significantly affect the quality of the human environment." The USDA has already solicited public comments on the controversial crops.

The new crops are part of an industry response to the development of weeds that have developed resistance to glyphosate, a ubiquitous herbicide that Monsanto sells with seeds that are genetically modified to withstand the chemical.

Critics, including environmentalists, have warned that the new seeds would lead to significant increases in the use of 2,4-D and dicamba, which they say are more harmful environmentally than glyphosate. Some fruit and vegetable growers have worried that the new herbicides would drift onto their fields, damaging crops.

Dow announced in January it wouldn't be able to sell its 2,4-D corn to U.S. farmers as planned for 2013. Dow spokeswoman Kenda Resler-Friend said the USDA's Friday announcement means the corn won't be available until at least 2015.

She said the new seeds are eagerly anticipated by farmers, who are having an increasingly hard time fighting weeds because of glyphosate resistance.

"Those weed problems are getting worse every single year," she said.

Monsanto called the USDA's decision "unexpected," and said in a statement it would use the extra time to broaden development of the dicamba-resistant seeds. Previously Monsanto had said the seeds wouldn't be commercially available until 2014 at the earliest.

The USDA said it received 8,200 comments on Dow's 2,4-D-tolerant seeds, including petitions signed by more than 400,000 people.

USDA World Ag Supply and Demand Estimate - May 10, 2013

Note: This report presents USDA’s initial assessment of U.S. and world crop supply and demand prospects and U.S. prices for 2013/14. Also presented are the first calendar-year 2014 projections of U.S. livestock, poultry, and dairy products. Projections reflect economic analysis, normal weather, trends, and judgment. Because spring planting is still underway in the Northern Hemisphere and remains several months away in the Southern Hemisphere, these projections are highly tentative. Forecasts for U.S. winter wheat area, yield, and production are from the May 10 Crop Production report. For other U.S. crops, the March 28 Prospective Plantings report is used for planted acreage. Methods used to project 2013/14 harvested acreage and yield are noted in each table.



COARSE GRAINS: 

U.S. feed grain supplies for 2013/14 are projected at a record 400.5 million tons, up 25 percent from 2012/13 with higher area and yields expected for corn, sorghum, and oats.  Corn production for 2013/14 is projected at 14.1 billion bushels, up 3.4 billion from 2012/13 when extreme drought and heat reduced yields to their lowest levels since 1995/96.  The 2013/14 corn yield is projected at 158.0 bushels per acre, 5.6 bushels below the weather adjusted trend presented at USDA’s Agricultural Outlook Forum in February (www.usda.gov/oce/forum/presentations/Westcott_Jewison.pdf).  The slow start to this year’s planting and the likelihood that progress by mid-May will remain well behind the 10-year average reduce prospects for yields.  Corn supplies for 2013/14 are projected at a record 14.9 billion bushels, up 3.0 billion from 2012/13.

U.S. corn use for 2013/14 is projected up 16 percent from 2012/13 on higher feed and residual disappearance, increased use for ethanol, sweeteners, and starch, and a partial recovery in exports.  Feed and residual use for 2013/14 is projected up 925 million bushels reflecting a sharp rebound in residual disappearance with the record crop and an increase in feeding with lower corn prices.  Projected corn use for ethanol is increased 250 million bushels from this month’s higher projection for 2012/13.  Lower corn prices and high prices for Renewable Identification Numbers (RINS) support profitability for ethanol producers.
 
U.S. corn exports for 2013/14 are projected 550 million bushels higher than this month’s lower projection for 2012/13.  At the projected 1.3 billion bushels, 2013/14 exports are expected to rebound from their lowest level since 1970/71.  An expected fourth straight year of record foreign corn production with large crops in South America and the FSU-12 will provide substantial competition for the United States.  U.S. corn ending stocks are projected at 2.0 billion bushels, up 1.2 billion from 2012/13.  The season-average farm price at $4.30 to $5.10 per bushel is down sharply from the record $6.70 to $7.10 for 2012/13.

Global coarse grain supplies for 2013/14 are projected at a record 1,407.6 million tons, up 113.8 million from 2012/13.  Global corn production for 2013/14 is projected at a record 965.9 million tons.  Foreign corn production is up 23.5 million tons.  The largest increases are projected for the FSU-12, EU-27, and China, but large crops are again expected in 2013/14 for Brazil and Argentina.  Global corn trade is projected higher with increased imports for China more than offsetting a reduction for EU-27.  Spurred by lower prices, smaller year-to-year import increases are projected for a number of countries.  Exports are lowered for Brazil, India, and Argentina, but raised for Ukraine and EU-27.  World corn consumption is projected at a record 936.7 million tons, up 72.8 million from 2012/13 with foreign consumption up 41.5 million.  Global corn ending stocks for 2013/14 are projected up 29.2 million tons on the year.  At 154.6 million tons, stocks would be a 13-year high.



OILSEEDS: 

U.S. oilseed production for 2013/14 is projected at 100.9 million tons, up 9 percent from 2012/13.  Higher soybean production accounts for most of the increase.  Sunflowerseed, peanut, and cottonseed production are each projected below last year’s crops.  Soybean production is projected at a record 3.390 billion bushels, up 375 million from the drought-reduced 2012 crop on slightly higher harvested area and higher yields. Soybean yields are projected at a weather-adjusted trend level of 44.5 bushels per acre, up 4.9 bushels from 2012.  Soybean supplies are projected at 3.530 billion bushels, up 10 percent from 2012/13.  Additional soybean meal exports for 2012/13 are offset by reduced domestic consumption, leaving crush unchanged.  Soybean exports and ending stocks for 2012/13 are also unchanged from last month.

The 2013/14 U.S. soybean crush is projected at 1.695 billion bushels, up 60 million from 2012/13 reflecting increased domestic soybean meal consumption and exports.  Despite increased competition from South America, U.S. soybean meal exports are forecast higher on sharply lower prices.  Soybean exports are projected at 1.450 billion bushels, up 100 million from 2012/13 on increased supplies and competitive prices.  Ending stocks are projected at 265 million bushels, up 140 million from 2012/13.  The U.S. season-average soybean price for 2013/14 is forecast at $9.50 to $11.50 per bushel compared with $14.30 per bushel in 2012/13.  Soybean meal and oil prices are forecast at $280-$320 per short ton and 47-51 cents per pound, respectively.

Global oilseed production for 2013/14 is projected at a record 491.3 million tons, up 4.7 percent from 2012/13 mainly due to increased soybean production.  Global soybean production is projected at 285.5 million tons, up 6 percent.  The Argentina soybean crop is projected at 54.5 million tons, up 3.5 million from 2012/13 on record planted area and higher yields.  The Brazil soybean crop is projected at a record 85 million tons as higher harvested area more than offsets lower yields.  China soybean production is projected at 12 million tons, down 0.6 million from 2012/13 as producers continue to shift area to more profitable crops.  If realized, harvested area at 6.6 million hectares would be down 28 percent in the past 4 years.  Global production of high-oil content seeds (rapeseed and sunflowerseed) is projected up 6.1 percent from 2012/13 on increased rapeseed production in Canada, India, EU-27, and Ukraine, and increased sunflowerseed production in Argentina, EU-27, Russia, Ukraine, and Turkey.  Oilseed supplies are up 5.1 percent from 2012/13.  With crush projected to increase 3.4 percent, global oilseed ending stocks are projected at 82.6 million tons, up 12.3 million.  

Global protein meal consumption is projected to increase 2.7 percent in 2013/14.  Protein meal consumption is projected to increase 3.3 percent in China, accounting for 32 percent of global protein consumption gains.  Global soybean exports are projected at 107.1 million tons, up 11.3 percent from 2012/13.  China soybean imports are projected at 69 million tons, up 10 million from the revised 2012/13 projection, leaving soybean supplies up 5 million tons from the previous year.  Global vegetable oil consumption is projected to rise 3 percent in 2013/14, led by increases for China, India, and Indonesia.



WHEAT: 

U.S. wheat supplies for 2013/14 are projected at 2,917 million bushels, down 7 percent from 2012/13.  Wheat production is projected at 2,057 million bushels, down 9 percent from last year with reduced prospects for Hard Red Winter wheat.  The all wheat yield, projected at 44.1 bushels per acre, is down 2.2 bushels from the record levels of 2012/13 and 2010/11.  The survey-based forecast for winter wheat production is down 10 percent with the lowest harvested-to-planted ratio since 2006/07 and lower yields as persistent drought and April freezes reduce crop prospects in the southern and central Plains.  Partly offsetting is higher forecast Soft Red Winter wheat production with higher area.  Spring wheat production for 2013/14 is projected to decline 8 percent as reduced durum area and a return to trend yields reduce prospects for durum and other spring wheat.  

Total U.S. wheat use for 2013/14 is projected down 7 percent year-to-year with lower domestic use and exports.  Feed and residual disappearance is projected 70 million bushels lower as larger supplies and lower prices for feed grains in 2013/14 limit wheat feeding by late summer.  Partly offsetting is a 13-million-bushel increase in domestic food use as flour extraction rates fall from a very high level in 2012/13 and consumption grows with population.  Exports for 2013/14 are projected at 925 million bushels, down 100 million from the 2012/13 projection.  Large crops for major export competitors limit opportunities for U.S. wheat.  U.S. ending stocks are projected to decline for a fourth consecutive year.  At 670 million bushels, ending stocks would be down 61 million bushels from the 2012/13 projection.  The all wheat season-average farm price is projected at $6.15 to $7.45 per bushel, down from the record $7.80 projected for 2012/13 as world prices for wheat and coarse grains are expected to decline sharply by fall.

Global 2013/14 wheat supplies are projected 3 percent higher than in 2012/13 with a 51.2-million-ton increase in foreign production more than offsetting a 19.3-million-ton reduction in global beginning stocks and lower forecast production in the United States.  At the projected 701.1 million tons, global production would be a record and up 45.5 million from 2012/13.  Production for 2013/14 is projected higher in all of the world’s major exporting countries with the largest increases expected in the FSU-12 and EU-27, up 29.9 million tons and 6.7 million tons, respectively.  Production is projected higher for Australia, Argentina, and Canada, up a collective 6.2 million tons from the current year.  Also affecting global trade prospects in 2013/14 are year-to-year production increases for major importers, the Middle East and North Africa, where weather has been favorable for winter crops since seeding last fall.

Global wheat exports for 2013/14 are projected higher than in 2012/13 with increases expected for FSU-12, Argentina, and India more than offsetting reductions for EU-27 and Australia.  Global wheat consumption is projected 20.0 million tons higher with increases in both feeding and food use.  Wheat feed and residual use is raised for FSU-12 and EU-27 with larger production.  The largest increase in food use is for India, but lower prices support small increases for many countries.  Global ending stocks for 2013/14 are projected at 186.4 million tons, up 6.2 million on the year.
 


LIVESTOCK, POULTRY, AND DAIRY: 

Total U.S. red meat and poultry production in 2014 is projected to be above 2013 as higher pork and poultry production more than offsets declines in beef production.  Tighter cattle supplies and potential heifer retention during late 2013 and into 2014 are expected to limit cattle available for placement, thereby reducing fed cattle slaughter in 2014.  Lower cow numbers and herd rebuilding will also limit non-fed beef production.  Pork production is forecast to increase more rapidly than in 2013 as lower forecast feed costs provide incentives for producers to expand farrowings and increase carcass weights from 2013 levels.  Broiler and turkey production are forecast higher as lower forecast feed prices encourage expansion despite lower poultry prices. Egg production for 2014 is forecast to expand as producers respond to lower feed costs.   

The total red meat and poultry production forecast for 2013 is lowered from last month as lower pork, broiler, and turkey production more than offsets greater beef production.  Higher cattle placements are expected to support higher fed beef production and cow slaughter has remained relatively high.  However, recent winter storms have affected cattle weights which are lowered slightly from last month.  Pork production is down marginally on lower forecast slaughter in the second of half of 2013.  Broiler production is lowered on hatchery and chick placement data to date, while turkey production is cut on lower poult placements. 

Continued year-over-year declines in U.S. beef production are expected to push beef exports lower in 2014.  Pork exports are expected to rebound in 2014 as supplies increase and demand improves.  Broiler exports are forecast higher on expanded supplies and moderating prices.  Beef imports are expected to be higher in 2014 as U.S. cow slaughter declines and domestic non-fed beef supplies tighten.  Pork imports are forecast up fractionally from 2013.

The 2013 red meat export forecast is lowered from last month, largely due to lower expected pork exports.  The beef forecast is adjusted to reflect lower first-quarter exports.  Poultry exports are raised as higher broiler exports more than offset lower turkey exports.

For 2014, cattle prices are forecast to rise above 2013 as supplies continue to tighten. Hog prices are forecast to be slightly lower than 2013 on higher production.  Broiler, turkey, and egg prices are forecast to be below 2013 as production expands. 

Cattle price forecasts for 2013 are unchanged from last month. Hog prices are down fractionally from last month on weaker second quarter prices.  Broiler prices are forecast higher as prices remain strong.

Milk production for 2014 is forecast higher as lower feed costs and relatively strong milk prices are expected to support production.  Commercial exports are forecast higher on robust international demand.  Imports will be lower on greater domestic supplies.  With higher domestic production, cheese, butter, and whey prices are forecast lower than last year, while nonfat dry milk (NDM) is higher largely on continued strength in international demand.  Both Class III and Class IV prices are forecast lower.  In the case of Class IV, lower forecast butter prices more than offset higher NDM prices.  The all milk price is forecast at $18.85 to $19.85 per cwt for 2014.

Forecast milk production in 2013 is unchanged from last month.  Imports are raised.  Exports are higher as abundant U.S. supplies and competitive prices are expected to spur foreign demand.  Cheese, butter, and NDM prices are raised from last month while whey is lower.  The Class III price is lowered as lower whey prices more than offset greater cheese prices.  Class IV is up reflecting higher prices for butter and NDM.  The all milk price is forecast at $19.50 to $20.00 per cwt.

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UNL Beef Industry Scholars Receive Their MBA – Masters in Beef Advocacy

As the 19 freshman in the UNL Beef Industry Scholars class completed their first year in college last week, they ended it by earning their Masters in Beef Advocacy (MBA) degree. The MBA program is an e-learning opportunity developed to assist producers across the country in becoming effective spokespersons for the industry.

The program consists of six, 1-hour core courses in the following areas: beef safety, beef nutrition, animal care, environmental stewardship, modern beef production and the beef checkoff.  Dr. Tom Field, Director of the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program and freshman Beef Scholars teacher, encouraged the class to participate in the program. “The MBA completion provides our Beef Scholars an opportunity to join industry leaders in being prepared to advocate for their business on a continual basis.  Immediate engagement with industry efforts helps to prepare our students to lead in the future.”

There are over 4,000 MBA graduates from across the US all helping to share the positive message about beef via on-line forums.  “We are thrilled to have this group of young people graduate from the MBA program and help to share our story via social media and the internet which their generation thrives on,” said Ann Marie Bosshamer, Executive Director of the Nebraska Beef Council.

Students include:  Aaron Aldana, Nebraska City; Steve Fish, Imperial; Lukas Fricke, Ulysses; Laura Gorecki, Farwell; Alex Heine, Yankton, SD; Devin Huesinkvelt, Cortland; Hannah Kesterson, Alliance; Jennifer Keyes, Springfield; Halsie Large, Hayes Center; Maci Linemann, Princeton; Alix Mashino, Spencer; Jared McKeever, Wymore; Logan Peters, Pender; Emily Sarbacker, Windsor, CO; Kolin Scheele, Odell; Travis Schiefelbein, Kimball, MN; Patti Schlickbernd, West Point; and Curtis Wetovick, Fullerton.



Senate Ag Committee Releases The Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act of 2013
Senator Debbie Stabenow, Chairwoman

The Senate’s bipartisan 2013 Farm Bill represents the most significant reform of American agriculture policy in decades.

With the Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act, the era of direct payments is over. Instead of subsidies that pay out every year even in good times, the bill creates risk management tools that support farmers when they are negatively impacted by weather disaster or market events beyond their control.

By ending unnecessary subsidies, streamlining and consolidating programs and cracking down on abuse, the bill reduces the deficit by billions.  Passing the Farm Bill will yield a total of $23 billion in cuts to agriculture programs (including cuts made due to the sequester).

$23 billion is over double the amount the bipartisan Simpson-Bowles commission ($10 billion) and Gang of Six ($11 billion) recommended in total agriculture cuts.

Agriculture is a bright spot in America’s economy. The Senate’s 2013 Farm Bill strengthens top priorities that help farmers, ranchers and small business owners create jobs.

The current Farm Bill expires September 30th.  A new Farm Bill must be passed this year to provide farmers the certainty they need to keep driving our economic recovery.

Sixteen million jobs hang in the balance.

Last year’s similar Senate Farm Bill passed the Senate with a wide bipartisan vote, 64-35.  The Farm Bill is broadly supported by Democrats and Republicans across the country for its major reforms, common sense deficit reduction and strengthened job creation initiatives.

Major Reform: Ending Direct Payments; Creating Responsible Risk Management
Farmers face unique risks unlike other businesses. Weather and market conditions outside a producer’s control can have devastating effects. Responsible risk management tools help ensure that farmers – and farm jobs – are not wiped out by disasters, and protect all American families from sudden spikes in food prices.

However, for too long farm programs have existed as subsidies that provide payments even when farmers are already doing well. The 2013 Senate Farm Bill reforms farm programs to save taxpayer dollars, while providing farmers with a responsible risk management system that only helps farmers when they experience substantial losses due to events beyond their control.  This proposal:
-    Eliminates direct payments. Farmers will no longer receive payments when prices are rising and support is not needed. Ending these subsidies and creating responsible risk management is a major shift in American farm policy
-    Caps remaining risk management support at $50,000 per person
-    Ends Farm Payments to Non-Farmers. This bill closes the “management loophole,” through which people who were not actually farming—in many cases not even setting foot on the farm—were designated as farm “managers” so they could receive farm payments
-    Strengthens crop insurance and expands access so farmers are not wiped out by bad weather
-    Includes disaster relief for producers hurt by drought, spring freeze, and other weather disasters
-    Reforming farm programs, ending direct payments and implementing market-oriented programs to help farmers manage risk saves $16 billion dollars ($12 billion in the bill, $4 billion through sequestration)

Consolidating and Streamlining Programs
By eliminating duplicative programs, funds are concentrated in the areas in which they will have the greatest impact, reducing the deficit while strengthening top priorities.  The Senate Farm Bill eliminates over 100 programs and authorizations under the Agriculture Committee’s jurisdiction.  For example:
-    The bill consolidates 23 existing conservation programs into 13 programs—while maintaining existing tools to protect and conserve land, water and wildlife
-    Streamlining programs provides added flexibility and focuses conservation around four primary functions: working lands conservation, the Conservation Reserve Program, regional partnerships, and easements to help prevent sprawl and protect wetlands
-    These reforms save money while still increasing resources for top priorities
-    Because we are truly doing more with less, changes to conservation policies are supported by nearly 650 conservation organizations from all 50 states

Improving Program Accountability
At a time when many out-of-work Americans are in need of food assistance for the first time in their lives, it is more critical than ever that every dollar go to families in need. By closing loopholes, cracking down on abuse and improving program integrity, the Farm Bill reduces the deficit without cutting standard benefits or removing any needy family from the program.  The Senate Farm Bill increases accountability in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by: .
-    Stopping lottery winners from continuing to receive assistance
-    Preventing states from providing $1 per year in home heating assistance to individuals who do not have a heating bill for the sole purpose of providing extra benefits above what they would normally receive
-    Ending misuse by college students whose families are not truly low-income
-    Cracking down on retailers and recipients engaged in benefit trafficking
-    Increasing requirements to prevent liquor and tobacco stores from accepting food assistance benefits
-    The above savings reduce the deficit while continuing support for food banks, seniors’ food programs and healthy school lunch initiatives

Continuing Growth in America’s Diverse Agricultural Economy
The Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act increases efficiency and accountability, saving tens of billions of dollars overall, while still strengthening agricultural jobs initiatives through:
-    Export opportunities to help farmers find new global markets for their goods
-    Help for family farmers to sell locally, increasing support for farmers’ markets and spurring the creation of food hubs to connect farmers to schools and other community-based organizations
-    Training and access to capital to make it easier for beginning farmers to get off the ground
-    Initiatives to help American veterans start agriculture businesses
-    Growth in bio-based manufacturing (businesses producing goods in America from raw agricultural products grown in America) to create rural agriculture and urban manufacturing jobs
-    Innovation in bio-energy production, supporting non-food based advanced biomass energy production such as cellulosic ethanol and woody biomass power-
-    Research to promote the commercialization of new agricultural innovations
-    Rural development initiatives to help rural communities upgrade infrastructure, extend broadband internet availability and create a better environment for small businesses    

Markup: Tuesday, May 14, 2013
The Senate Agriculture Committee will meet at 10:00am on Tuesday, May 14 to consider and begin marking up the Agriculture Reform, Food and Jobs Act of 2013 (the 2013 Farm Bill).



Soybean Growers Welcome Senate Agriculture Committee Farm Bill Draft

In advance of Tuesday’s scheduled markup, the Senate Agriculture Committee today released a draft of its proposed farm bill, which met with approval from the nation’s soybean farmers. American Soybean Association (ASA) President and Canton, Miss., soybean farmer Danny Murphy welcomed the draft and encouraged its expedited passage:

“ASA commends Chairwoman Stabenow, Ranking Member Cochran, and members of the Senate Agriculture Committee for their work thus far in crafting a proposed farm bill. Importantly, the draft released by the Committee would protect and strengthen crop insurance as well as ensure that a target price program to protect growers from low prices remains decoupled from current planting decisions, thus avoiding the possibility of production distortions. Combined with a revenue protection program similar to that included in last year’s Senate bill, the proposed legislation takes significant steps to provide farmers with effective risk management programs while protecting planting flexibility and avoiding planting distortions.

“While ASA is still studying details of the 1,102-page bill, our initial review also notes that the draft reflects other ASA priorities including reauthorization and funding of the Foreign Market Development Cooperator Program and Market Access Program, funding for conservation programs applied to working lands, reauthorization and funding for important bio-based and bioenergy programs, and support for agricultural research, to name just a few.”

“ASA applauds the Agriculture Committees in both the House and Senate for taking the initiative to move a farm bill forward in the 113th Congress. We look forward to speedy markups in both Committees next week and the passage of a new comprehensive farm bill as quickly as possible.”



NFBF on Senate Action on Oil Spill Regulation

“We are pleased by the U.S. Senate’s actions to provide regulatory relief to Nebraska farm families in regards to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) rule governing oil spills on farms. EPA’s Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) rule has been a source of frustration for many Nebraska farm families attempting to comply given uncertainty surrounding their obligations under the regulations. While the Senate’s action to adjust regulatory thresholds and further study the appropriate thresholds for regulation on farms is not a complete fix, it is clearly a step in the right direction.”

“We are hopeful action in the U.S. House will build upon the progress made in the Senate to further reflect the reality that oil spills on farms have historically not presented a risk to the environment and regulations on farms should reflect this reality. We greatly appreciate the work of both Sen. Mike Johanns and Sen. Deb Fischer for their efforts to work toward a common sense solution to EPA’s oil spill rules.”



Water for Food Speaker: 'Time is Running Out; Time for Action'

            Dilip Kulkarni remembers the first global Water for Food Conference in Lincoln in 2009. "Another water conference" was his initial dismissive reaction.

            Wednesday (May 8), as the fifth annual conference closed, Kulkarni, of India's Jain Irrigation Systems, praised the gatherings of experts from around the world for playing an important role in surfacing challenges and solutions to the problem of feeding a world expected to grow from 7 billion to 9 billion by 2050.

            But "time is running out," Kulkarni said. "It is now the time for action, we must take our research, our knowledge to the people. The solutions are within our reach."

            The conference was hosted by the University of Nebraska's Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Institute and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and sponsored by Monsanto.

            Kulkarni and others on a closing panel led by Water for Food Institute Executive Director Roberto Lenton said the problems are complex and differ around the world. Much of the challenge lies in convincing government leaders to take research seriously in crafting new laws and policies to help address the issue.

            "Too often our policymakers are taking the issue of climate change and kicking it down the road," said Mace Hack, state director of The Nature Conservancy in Nebraska.

            Another wrinkle, cited by Sandy Zellmer, the Robert B. Daugherty professor of law at UNL's College of Law, is that scientific and producer knowledge of water issues is outpacing the legal system's grasp of them.  

             Earlier Wednesday, livestock experts addressed livestock's often-misunderstood role in sustainable agriculture.

            "Beef does use a heck of a lot of water and I'm not here to say it doesn't," said Jude Capper, a livestock sustainability consultant from Bozeman, Mont.

            However, she said, anti-meat activists have painted an unfair picture using distorted statistics and scare tactics.

            "We are bombarded every day with the message, 'if you care about the planet you shouldn't eat meat,'" she said.

            In the United States, Capper said, improved beef production reduced the sector's water footprint 88 percent from 1977 to 2007. Further improvements can yield more progress, she said.

            Bradley Ridoutt, of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization in Australia, said any discussion of livestock's role has to consider its location and context. Livestock production in different parts of the world has different environmental impacts.

            "Agriculture is not homogenous. It is very dangerous to make generalizations about the water footprint of broad production categories or regions," he said.

            "What is the shape, the size, the form of a livestock sector in a sustainable food system?" Ridoutt asked. "There must be some limits," he acknowledged, but he rejected calls for moving away from meat consumption. Instead, Ridoutt said, policies must be based on research.

            Globally, livestock accounts for 16 percent of the calories, 33 percent of the protein and 43 percent of the fat consumed by humans, said Mats Lannerstad of the International Livestock Research Institute and Stockholm Environmental Institute. Beyond that, he noted, livestock has many nonfood uses.

            Other sessions Wednesday covered the potential role for unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, in agriculture and research. UNL scientists are working to make drones more reliable, safer and easier to use for researchers and producers alike. Potential uses include scouting fields for pests and disease, gathering water, air or leaf samples and monitoring other crop and environmental factors.

            Moisture-sensing equipment and other information can improve water efficiency 20 percent or more, said M. Can Vuran, an assistant professor of computer science and engineering at UNL. However, only about 8 percent of producers use these tools. Vuran's team is developing wireless underground sensor networks to help producers manage irrigation more efficiently.

            The three-day conference, which concluded Wednesday, drew more than 400 people from around the world who are working to overcome the urgent challenge of growing more food with less water.

            Additional information about the 2013 Water for Food Conference is online at: http://waterforfood.nebraska.edu/wff2013.

            The Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Institute is a research, policy analysis and education institute committed to helping the world efficiently use its limited freshwater resources, with a particular focus on ensuring the food supply for current and future generations. Established in April 2010, the institute focuses on fundamental and applied research to provide the knowledge base for effective, practical solutions. It is building the tools needed to guide decision-making about management of water quantity and quality and to inform policymaking at all levels.



NCTA Recognizes 2013 Honor Graduates

Kicking off its Centennial year, the University of Nebraska’s Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) honored students from four primary departments in commencement exercises Thursday, May 2 at the Curtis Memorial Community Center.

Nearly 600 people attend the commencement recognizing students in Agribusiness Management, Agriculture Production, Horticulture, and Veterinary Technology.

Alan Moeller, assistant vice chancellor of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, conferred degrees to 61 students participating in the ceremony.  Overall, students earned 81 degrees in Associate of Science, Associate of Applied Science, and Certificates.  Some students had completed coursework in December or will finalize programs in August, said Scott Mickelsen, NCTA associate dean.  “We are proud of the hard work by all of our students, faculty and staff.”

Class Valedictorian was Kaci Schroer of Nelson, who graduated Summa Cum Laude (4.0 GPA) from Agriculture Production Systems and Agribusiness Management Systems. Her speech called for students to “GROW” – graduates, responsibility, opportunity and wisdom. Salutatorian was Shawna M. Clement of Malcom, also Summa Cum Laude (4.0 GPA) in Veterinary Technology Systems.

Eight students graduated Magna Cum Laude (3.75-3.99 GPA) – Agribusiness Management: Amanda Castle, Olathe, CO; Agriculture Production: Lance Johnson, Upland; Jackson Kummer, Columbus; Lindy McKinney, Greensburg, KS; Sawyer Orr, Hemingford; and Nolan Wilson, Gothenburg; Horticulture: Sydney Roth, Minneapolis, MN; and Veterinary Technology: Laura Welch, Grand Island;

Five graduates with Cum Laude (3.5-3.74 GPA) awards: Agriculture Production: Luke Glodowski, Farnam; Melissa McConnell, Wall, SD; Tyler Rose, Agra, KS; and Megan Streweler, Arnold; and Veterinary Tech: Eliza Benteman, Waterville, KS.

Michael Kelsey, executive vice president of Nebraska Cattlemen, was commencement speaker.  He was joined by University of Nebraska Regents Tim Clare of Lincoln and Bob Phares of North Platte for brief remarks. 



CHS and Aurora Cooperative to build grain shuttle loader in Nebraska

Today CHS Inc., an energy grains and foods company and the nation's leading farmer-owned cooperative, and the Aurora Cooperative, a leading grain marketer and agricultural supplier throughout Nebraska and the U.S., announced formation of a limited liability company (LLC) to build and operate a high-speed shuttle loading facility near Superior, Nebraska.

The new entity, Superior East, LLC expects to begin construction immediately and be completed in about 12 months. With a storage capacity of 1,250,000 bushels, the new grain facility will include a 120-car capacity circle track on the BNSF line moving corn, soybeans and hard red winter wheat to markets west and south, including Mexico. Additionally, the location will provide a grain ground piling system, as well as 10,000-ton liquid fertilizer storage. The site has ample room to expand both grain and fertilizer capacity.

Superior East, LLC was formed under the recently introduced CHS Partnered Equity Program. This first-of-its-kind program allows CHS owners to unlock a portion of their equity in CHS to provide capital for an expansion project. Cooperatives participating in the program use a portion of their CHS equity as a contribution to a venture with CHS focused on helping their cooperative grow. Eligible projects include shuttle loaders, fertilizer hub plants, energy assets and other growth opportunities.

"By using a portion of our CHS equity along with additional CHS capital to build a next-generation ag multiplex, we will be able to provide the Aurora Cooperative farmer owners in southern Nebraska and northern Kansas additional access to world grain and fertilizer markets via the BNSF rail system," said George Hohwieler, Aurora Cooperative President and CEO.  "This significant expansion fully aligns with our vision to be a financially strong, innovative, and locally-owned agri-business," said Hohwieler.

"We are excited about the opportunity to come together with such a strong partner with the CHS Partnered Equity Program," said Lynden Johnson, Business Solutions executive vice president, CHS. "The goal of the program is to help our owners grow by providing strong cooperatives like Aurora the opportunity to unlock a portion of their equity in CHS for projects that directly serve their farmer owners. We look forward to exploring other projects that would benefit our owners in Nebraska and other states in CHS trade area," said Johnson.

Superior East, LLC is a 50/50 joint venture with a governing board comprised of representatives from both CHS and the Aurora Cooperative. The multiplex will be operated by the Aurora Cooperative.



NE Reaches a Tentative Agreement with KS to Halt Releases from Harlan County Reservoir

The Nebraska Department of Natural Resources has reached a tentative agreement with the Kansas Bostwick Irrigation District. As a part of this agreement, the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources will discontinue the required releases of water being made from Harlan County Reservoir in exchange for a commitment from Kansas Bostwick Irrigation District that their use of the water will not harm Nebraska’s efforts to comply with the Republican River Compact. This agreement between Nebraska and the Kansas Bostwick Irrigation District will be memorialized in a contract being developing by the United States Bureau of Reclamation, the operators of the reservoir.

Releases of water from Harlan County Reservoir were initiated last week, at the request of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, after discussions with Kansas state officials failed. Nebraska Department of Natural Resources Director Brian Dunnigan said, “We are very pleased that Kansas Bostwick Irrigation District approached us willing to implement, what we have felt all along, is a very practical solution.” The agreement reached will at least put off the required releases of water from Harlan County Reservoir until such time that the water will be used by Kansas Bostwick Irrigation District to supplement current irrigation water supplies or until after the 2013 irrigation season has ended.

Director Dunnigan said, “We certainly did not expect that it would take this long into the year for us to reach an agreement, given the significant lead time that all parties have had regarding the actions Nebraska would be taking in 2013. I hope this is the start of finding common ground on water management solutions in the Republican River Basin so all water users in the basin may benefit.”

A final agreement must be reached by 5:00 p.m. this Friday or the required releases by Nebraska will be reinitiated.



Haying, Grazing of Cover Crop Extended to May 22

The USDA Wednesday announced that due to cold and wet weather in many states it is providing Approved Insurance Providers the option to allow haying and grazing from the current May 10 deadline to May 22.

The USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA) identified areas with the May 10 deadline where the wet, cold spring has delayed normal cover crop growth and normal spring planting preparations. There may also be areas where it may not be possible for producers to enter the field to terminate the cover crop or plant at this time.

Producers in Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan seeking to continue haying or grazing a cover crop should contact their Approved Insurance Providers (AIP) to discuss eligibility. Because circumstances will be different for each producer, the AIPs may, at their sole discretion, make a determination to approve the request.

Under the existing policy in the seven identified states, a producer must not hay, graze, or harvest a cover crop after May 10, 2013 in order to insure a spring crop. The existing policies also provide specifics of when the cover crop must be terminated before planting the spring crop.

This decision does not affect the date by which the crop must be terminated or the planting dates.



Check with insurance carrier before final decision about cover crops

Iowa’s above-average precipitation over the past few weeks may mean that Iowa cattle producers can get some additional grazing from the cover crops they planted last fall.

Although the Risk Management Agency, the arm of the USDA that oversees crop insurance rules, says that it cannot alter the provision that called for May 10 to be the last date for haying and grazing, it says that Approved Insurance Providers in Iowa can, at their discretion, allow the continuation of haying and grazing until May 22. RMA Administrator Brandon Willis said in a bulletin issued May 8, the RMA “does recognize that certain conditions may exist that create an inability of the producer to meet the full intent of the (May 10) provision.”

“The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association has been telling RMA that exceedingly wet conditions in these fields have made it impractical to release cattle to graze there,” says Justine Stevenson, ICA’s director of government relations and public policy. “We appreciate that RMA is now providing a possible opportunity to hay or graze that cover crop.”

“However, we strongly suggest that producers work with their crop insurance provider to know which rules apply to them, and to get written permission from that provider that allows them the variance to hay or graze the field until May 22,” Stevenson says.

The number of acres that Iowa farmers plant to cover crops has increased by 20 times during the past three years. USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service says about 100,000 acres of cover crops were
planted in Iowa in 2012, compared to 5,000 Iowa acres in 2009.



USDA Announces Farm Payments Scheduled to Resume

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Juan M. Garcia announced today that farm payments, which had been temporarily suspended due to sequestration, are scheduled to resume today, May 8. This includes payments for the 2011 Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payments Program (SURE), the Noninsured Crop Assistance Program (NAP) and the Milk Income Loss Contract Program (MILC).

“I’m pleased to announce that farmers and ranchers can expect to begin receiving their payments beginning today, May 8,” said Garcia. “We appreciate the producers’ patience during the delay. We’re working diligently to get these payments out as quickly as possible.”

On March 4, 2013, FSA began a temporary suspension of FSA program payments in order to assess the impact of sequestration and determine the least-disruptive process possible for carrying out required cuts. The Department will use the Secretary’s limited authority to transfer funds to avoid reducing these program payments.

Producers should be advised that program sign-up periods currently underway have the following enrollment deadlines: 2013 Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) Program – June 3rd; 2011 SURE – June 7; and the 2013 Direct and Counter-Cyclical Program – August 2nd. Producers should contact their local Farm Service Agency office as soon as possible for appointments to enroll in these programs before the deadlines.



NCGA Applauds Senators Grassley and Stabenow for Efforts to Improve International Biotech Regulatory

Yesterday, the National Corn Growers Association expressed appreciation to Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) for co-authoring a letter to USDA Secretary Vilsack and USTR Acting Ambassador Marantis addressing international regulatory challenges for agricultural products derived from biotechnology. Biotech varieties accounted for 88 percent of corn planted in 2012. As the world's leading exporter of corn, NCGA strongly supports efforts to ensure the uninterrupted flow of corn and corn co-products in the international marketplace.

The letter identifies regulatory asynchrony, zero tolerance policies and re-registration requirements as costly regulatory barriers. It also acknowledges efforts currently underway by USDA and USTR to engage trading partners on these issues.

"Biotechnology is a critical tool for farmers to help manage pressure from weather, pests and weeds," said NCGA President Pam Johnson, a farmer from Floyd, Iowa. "We need to elevate the conversation on barriers to biotech with all of our trading partners."

"Improving regulatory predictability will allow farmers to have access to new technologies more quickly and reduce risk for exporters in the international marketplace," said NCGA Trade Policy and Biotechnology Action Team Chair Jim Zimmerman, a farmer from Rosendale, Wisc.

The letter was also signed by Sens. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Roy Blunt (R-MO), John Boozman (R-AR), Bob Casey (D-PA), Saxby Chambliss (R-GA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Dan Coats (R-IN), Thad Cochran (R-MS), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Joe Donnelley (D-IN), Al Franken (D-MN), Kay Hagan (D-NC), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Mike Johanns (R-NE), Tim Johnson (D-SD), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Mark Pryor (D-AR), Pat Roberts(R-KS), John Thune (R-SD), and Mark Udall (D-CO).



Soybean Marketing and Production College Will Help Producers Capitalize on Agriculture Trends

The American Soybean Association (ASA) has created a new Soybean Marketing and Production College program to educate producers on how to capitalize on the growing trends and new technologies in agriculture to maximize on-farm profitability. The event takes place in Minneapolis, July 29-30. Growers do not have to be ASA members to participate.

“Global sustainability requirements, meeting world soybean demand, weed management and herbicide resistance issues, new precision ag technologies – these issues are all impacting the profitability of soybean growers,” said ASA President Danny Murphy, a soybean farmer from Canton, Miss. “ASA’s Soybean Marketing and Production College will give growers hands-on training in these areas, with breakout sessions and presentations from industry experts, in addition to a session on succession planning.”

Ohio State University’s Dr. Matt Roberts, industry consultant on grain, petroleum, and biofuels markets and policy, headlines the Opening General Session. Roberts will review the current supply and demand situation for grains and oilseeds globally, what that means for prices, and how growers can best take advantage of these trends in their own marketing decisions.

U.S. Farm Report host John Phipps will keynote the Closing General Session. Phipps will share strategies to not just endure, but prosper from an unpredictable future in agriculture by understanding which risks are worth worrying about.

Registration for ASA’s Soybean Marketing and Production College is open now through July 9. Get more information and register online at www.SoyGrowers.com/MarketingProductionCollege.

The Soybean Marketing and Production College is sponsored by the following corporate organizations and Qualified State Soybean Boards: AGCO, Bayer CropScience, Arkansas Soybean Promotion Board, Kansas Soybean Commission, Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council, Minnesota Soybean Growers Association, New York Soybean Board and the Tennessee Soybean Promotion Board.



UNL student tours European agriculture with CLAAS

In January, 30 students from across the United State were awarded sponsorships courtesy of CLAAS of America to attend the Agricultural Equipment Technology Conference, which was held in conjunction with the Ag Connect Expo in Kansas City. Of those 30 recipients, one student was chosen to receive an all-expense paid trip to Germany.

The 2013 recipient of the Germany trip was Dylan Smith, a junior in agricultural engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

“I have some background in agriculture and working with machinery, plus I really enjoy problem-solving, and those all seemed to fit together in ag engineering,” says Smith.

Smith first learned about the AETC sponsorships at an American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers student meeting at Nebraska. Applicants were chosen based on a number of qualifications, including their essay response to the question, “What do you feel has been the greatest contribution CLAAS has made to the world agricultural industry?”

Following his trip to AETC and Ag Connect, Smith was informed that he was selected to travel to Germany with CLAAS; he was taken aback when he received the news, but was more than excited to jump at the opportunity.

“I had never been to Europe before this and I was excited about going over there and learning more about European agriculture,” says Smith.

Prior to this experience, Smith’s primary exposure to CLAAS machinery was via a former employer that used CLAAS forage harvesters. Smith had worked with CLAAS JAGUAR harvesters, and was excited to see more of the CLAAS product lineup.

The tour featured trips to Amsterdam and Berlin, among the historical and educational sightseeing tours. Smith was also able to capitalize on his interest in agriculture and engineering. While on the tour, he was able to participate in a few driving demos at a farm and jump behind the wheel of CLAAS XERION and ARION tractors.

Smith was impressed with the efficiency and work ethic of the CLAAS employees while touring the headquarters in Harsewinkel, Germany, the parts warehouse and manufacturing facilities.

“I was impressed with the structure of the company. The organization of their manufacturing facilities was top-notch. Also, their checks and balances once the machine is put together was pretty amazing,” says Smith.

According to Smith, he learned the most about the role of CLAAS in the community.

“The thing I really noticed was what they do for the community and providing jobs for people in Harsewinkel and at the other CLAAS facilities,” says Smith.



AGCO to Expand Minnesota Production Facility

Farm equipment maker AGCO has begun further expansion of its Jackson, Minn., manufacturing center. During the next three years, the company will invest an estimated $42 million in infrastructure, increasing production capacity and efficiency in order to help meet growing demand for the tractors and application equipment built there.

Eric Fisher, AGCO director of operations in Jackson, was joined by city of Jackson Mayor Wayne Walter in a groundbreaking ceremony at the site this week to mark the start of the facility improvement project.

The three-year endeavor is made up of seven phases affecting all areas of the campus, including component manufacturing, the tractor assembly line and the application equipment assembly line.

Once completed, the expansion will create 75 additional permanent jobs at the facility, bringing the total number of employees to more than 1,200. The project will increase production capacity by 25 percent for both the tractor and sprayer assembly lines while maintaining best-in-class product quality.

In June 2012, AGCO expanded its Jackson location to bring production of Massey Ferguson and Challenger wheeled row-crop tractors to North America. That expansion included AGCO's first North American welcome center, Intivity CenterSM.

These efforts contributed more than $17 million to the local economy by adding more than 200 jobs. This brought the total number of professional, support and skilled manufacturing positions at the facility to 1,050.



FAO Sees Strong 2013-14 Grain Output

Global wheat and corn production is predicted to grow strongly in 2013-14, as most major growing regions are likely to recover from weather-related setbacks, the United Nation's food body said Thursday.

The Food and Agriculture Organization said it estimates global wheat production will reach 695 million metric tons, an increase of 5.4% from the year earlier and only around 6 million tons short of 2011's record level.

Much of this growth is expected to be concentrated in the European Union and Commonwealth of Independent States, the FAO said, driven by increased plantings in response to attractive prices and a return to normal yields in Russia and Ukraine following last year's drought.

However, in contrast, it added that prospects have deteriorated in the U.S., where drought persists on more than half of the winter wheat area and production looks likely to decrease this year.

Meanwhile, the FAO said it estimates that global corn production will rise 10% on the year, to around 960 million tons, with the bulk of the increase expected in the U.S., where plantings will likely to reach their highest level since 1936.

It added that recovery from drought in the major producing countries of the CIS should also contribute significantly to this record level of global production, with good crops already being harvested in the Southern Hemisphere.

The FAO also expects global rice production to rise to 497.7 million tons, 16 million tons higher than the previous year, with particularly large increases expected in India and Indonesia.



Argentina Corn Seen at 24.8M Tons

Argentina's corn harvest progressed slowly over the past week due to showers and as farmers focused on harvesting the soybean crop, the Buenos Aires Cereals Exchange said in its weekly crop report Thursday.  The exchange held its forecast for commercial corn production at 24.8 million metric tons. That's a record crop, although smaller than initial expectations due to a stretch of drought during key growing periods, the exchange said.

So far, 40.5% of the corn harvest has been wrapped up.  Argentina is the world's no. 3 corn exporter behind the U.S. and Brazil.

The exchange held its soybean forecast at 48.5 million metric tons, with 79.3% of the crop already harvested.  Argentina is the world's no. 3 soybean exporter and leads global soymeal and soyoil exports.



Agriculture and Livestock Remain Major Sources of Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Global greenhouse gas emissions from the agricultural sector totaled 4.69 billion tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) equivalent in 2010 (the most recent year for which data are available), an increase of 13 percent over 1990 emissions. By comparison, global carbon dioxide emissions from transport totaled 6.76 billion tons that year, and emissions from electricity and heat production reached 12.48 billion tons, according to Worldwatch Institute's Vital Signs Online service (www.worldwatch.org).

Growth in agricultural production between 1990 and 2010 outpaced growth in emissions by a factor of 1.6, demonstrating increased energy efficiency in the agriculture sector.

The three most common gases emitted in agriculture are nitrous oxide, CO2, and methane. Methane is generally produced when organic materials----such as crops, livestock feed, or manure----decompose anaerobically (without oxygen). Methane accounts for around 50 percent of total agricultural emissions. Enteric fermentation----the digestion of organic materials by livestock----is the largest source of methane emissions and of agricultural emissions overall.

Nitrous oxide is a by-product generated by the microbial breakdown of nitrogen in soils and manures. Nitrous oxide production is particularly high in cases where the nitrogen available in soils exceeds that required by plants to grow, which often occurs when nitrogen-rich synthetic fertilizers are applied. Nitrous oxide is responsible for around 36 percent of agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.

Finally, carbon dioxide is released from soils when organic matter decomposes aerobically (with oxygen). The largest source of CO2 emissions within agriculture is the drainage and cultivation of "organic soils"----soils in wetlands, peatlands, bogs, or fens with high organic material. When these areas are drained for cultivation, organic matter within the soil decomposes at a rapid rate, releasing CO2. This process accounts for around 14 percent of total agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.

Emissions from enteric fermentation rose by 7.6 percent worldwide between 1990 and 2010, but regional variation was high. At 51.4 percent and 28.1 percent, respectively, Africa and Asia saw their emissions increase, while emissions in Europe and Oceania fell by 48.1 percent and 16.1 percent. Europe's significant reduction in emissions parallels the decline in its beef production between 1990 and 2010, but it may also reflect increased use of grains and oils in cattle feed instead of grasses.

"Adding oils or oilseeds to feed can help with digestion and reduce methane emissions. But a shift from a grass-based to a grain- and oilseeds-based diet often accompanies a shift from pastures to concentrated feedlots, which has a range of negative consequences such as water pollution and high fossil fuel consumption," said Laura Reynolds, Worldwatch Food and Agriculture Researcher and the study's author. "Aside from reducing livestock populations, there is no other clear pathway to climate-friendly meat production from livestock."

Manure that is deposited and left on pastures contributes to global nitrous oxide emissions because of its high nitrogen content. When more nitrogen is added to soil than is needed, soil bacteria convert the extra nitrogen into nitrous oxide and emit it into the atmosphere----a process called nitrification. Emissions from manure on pasture were highest in Asia, Africa, and South America, accounting for a combined 81 percent of global emissions from this source.

These data indicate the huge share of global emissions that is attributable to livestock production. While reducing livestock populations is one way to reduce global emissions from agriculture, farmers and landowners have numerous other opportunities for mitigation, many of which offer environmental and even economic co-benefits. For instance, growing trees and woody perennials on land can sequester carbon while simultaneously helping to restore soils, reduce water contamination, and provide beneficial wildlife habitat. Reducing soil tillage can rebuild soils while lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Some practices can even result in increased income for farmers----"cap-and-trade" programs allow farmers to monetize certain sequestration practices and sell them, while government programs like the U.S. Conservation Reserve Program pay farmers to set aside some of their land for long-term restoration.

Groundwater Levels Fell 4.38 Feet on the Average Across the Upper Big Blue NRD

During April 2013, the NRD measured 514 observation wells throughout the District and then averaged the data of all these wells.  Observation wells are measured in the spring of each year, allowing the water table to rebound from the previous irrigation season.

Overall, the spring 2013 average measurement for the groundwater level change shows a decline of 4.38 feet from last spring.  The findings show that the spring 2013 average groundwater level is 3.03 feet above the “Allocation Trigger”.

Through the conservation efforts of groundwater users, and because of an extended period of above average rainfall in the 1980s and 1990s, the average groundwater level in the Upper Big Blue NRD rose significantly to a level in the year 2000 that was approximately seven feet higher than the 1961 level (baseline), and fourteen feet higher than the low level of 1976 to 1981.

The District goal is to hold the average groundwater level to above the 1978 level.  In 2005, the District average groundwater level reached the “Reporting Trigger” initiating groundwater users to report annual groundwater use to the District and to certify their irrigated acres.  If the District average level falls below the 1978 level (“Allocation Trigger”), the use of flowmeters will be required and groundwater allocation will begin.

The Upper Big Blue NRD rules and regulations mandate that producers will be responsible for installing flowmeters on existing wells if the groundwater level hits the allocation trigger.  When the allocation trigger is reached and producers and other users have not installed flowmeters by the next calendar year, then they will not be able to pump any amount of water until a flowmeter is installed.  Since March 1, 2004, all new wells and replacement wells require a flowmeter.                                



2013 Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) Program

“The Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) Program could prove to be a very viable option to Nebraska crop producers in 2013” said Farm Service Agency Director Dan Steinkruger.  The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 provided a one-year extension of the ACRE program.  “Signup is underway and producers must elect and enroll their farms on or before June 3, 2013,” said Steinkruger.

Farms that were enrolled in either the Direct and Counter-cyclical Program (DCP) or ACRE in past years may elect ACRE for the one-year extension in 2013.  Any farms that have already enrolled in DCP for 2013 may still elect to switch to ACRE on or before June 3, 2013.

Producers who elect and enroll a farm in ACRE agree to forgo DCP counter-cyclical payments and accept a 20 percent reduction in their direct payments, plus a 30 percent reduction in marketing assistance loan rates.  ACRE payments are tied to current plantings on the farm as opposed to counter-cyclical payments, which are tied to the farm’s base acres.  ACRE payments are revenue-based payments and are tied to crop production and the National Average Market Price for commodity crops on the farm.  Payments are issued for crops if two triggers are met for the crop.  The State Trigger must be less than the State ACRE Guarantee and the Farm trigger must be less than the farm ACRE Guarantee.

During the 2008 Farm Bill, these triggers were met and payments issued in Nebraska in 2009 for barley, oats, dry peas, sunflower seed and wheat.  In 2010, the triggers were met and payments issued for irrigated barley and dry peas.  According to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Cornhusker Economics bulletin, ag economists are predicting substantial payments for non-irrigated corn and soybeans for 2012 in Nebraska due to the size of the projected state payment rates.

“Based on currently published NASS yields, it appears that substantial ACRE revenue payments may be earned on certain 2012 non-irrigated crops,” said Steinkruger.  He encourages producers to contact UNL Extension Educators to assist in the analysis for 2013.  Additional information, including access to a free ACRE webinar for public viewing, is available at www.agecon.unl.edu/farmbill.  Contact the local FSA County Office for additional information.  “It is very important for all producers to evaluate the ACRE decision before the June 3 deadline,” said Steinkruger.



Nebraska Farmers Award Free Groceries for a Year

Omaha and Hastings residents have been selected as the two lucky grand prize winners of “Free Groceries for a Year” in the Nebraska Farmers Feed US sweepstakes. Nebraska farmers sponsored the grand prizes, which are valued at $5,000* – the average amount spent on groceries annually per person. The winners are:
•    Jeff Dunn, Omaha, Neb., who was presented $5,000 in Super Saver gift cards by Nebraska farmers during an in-store presentation earlier this week
•    Marcie Hendricks, Hastings, Neb., who was presented $5,000 in Russ’s Market gift cards by Nebraska farmers during an in-store presentation earlier this week

Following the three month sweepstakes, the names of the two winners were drawn at random from more than 131,000 online registrations submitted by Nebraskans from across the state.

For three months, beginning in Jan. 2013, residents from across the state registered online for a chance to win free groceries for a year. While doing so, they also had the opportunity to meet seven featured Nebraskans, including five farmers, a veterinarian and a grocer, taking video tours to see how they produce safe, healthy and affordable food for consumers.

“To have more than 131,000 people meet Nebraska farmers and register for the chance to win, that’s just great,” said Chad Bartek, a soybean farmer from Ithaca, who is a featured farmer on the website. “We’re proud of agriculture here in the state and were excited showcase our long-standing commitment to raising safe, nutritious and affordable food.” 

Supporting Nebraska agriculture groups include the Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (A-FAN), Nebraska Soybean Board, Nebraska Pork Producers, Nebraska Corn Board, Midwest Dairy Association, and B&R Grocery.



Summer Barbecues Enhanced by Healthier Beef

            It's time for summer barbecues, and National Beef Month is a great time to grill some healthy beef.

            May is National Beef Month, and producers are celebrating an important contributor to Nebraska's economy. Despite stereotypes about beef, it does carry many health benefits when eaten safely, said Kayla Colgrove, University of Nebraska-Lincoln extension educator.

            Beef includes complete proteins, which help the body repair tissues and provides energy. It also provides other vitamins such as zinc and iron that help heal wounds and strengthen the immune system.

            Finding the right lean cuts will help consumers take advantage of these health benefits. Some lean cuts include sirloin, tenderloin and flank, which might come in the form of steaks or roasts. A wallet card to help with selection is available at http://www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com/CMDocs/BIWFD/29%20lean%20cuts%20wallet%20card.pdf.

            "Look for 'loin' or 'round' in the name to find lean cuts," Colgrove said. "For ground beef, choose 95 percent lean ground beef most often."

            Portion size is an important aspect as well. Colgrove suggests imagining a deck of cards to meet the recommended 3 ounce portion size for beef. The Daily Food Plan at choosemyplate.gov will help determine the right portion size for each person based on age, sex, weight, height and physical activity.

            "People eat and drink more when served larger portions," Colgrove said. "Choosing a smaller portion can help you lose weight and keep it off."

            Safe cooking is another step in safe beef consumption. Cooking the meat to a safe internal temperature of 145 degrees for steaks and roasts and 160 degrees for hamburgers will cut down on the risk of foodborne illness.

            "The only way to reduce pathogens in food to safe levels is to cook it to its minimum internal temperature," Colgrove said. "You can't tell by looking at it, so use a food thermometer to be sure food is cooked to the minimum internal temperature."

            More information on National Beef Month and other national food months and weeks to celebrate is available at food.unl.edu. 



Stripe Rust Confirmed in Wheat in Southeast Nebraska
Stephen Wegulo, UNL Extension Plant Pathologist

On May 7 stripe rust was confirmed in research plots at the UNL Agricultural Research and Development Center (ARDC) near Mead. Wheat in the plots is still in the early stages of development, having been delayed by prolonged cold spring temperatures. When wheat is in these early stages of development, stripe rust does not form distinct stripes on the leaves. Stripes usually develop on upper leaves after stem elongation.

Conditions Conducive to Disease Development
It is recommended that wheat fields be scouted regularly for detection of stripe rust. Weather conditions are currently favorable for rapid development and spread of this disease. If stripe rust is detected in a wheat field, consider applying a fungicide, especially if favorable weather conditions (rain and cool temperatures) are forecast and a susceptible variety was planted. A list of wheat fungicides and their efficacy ratings for stripe rust and other wheat diseases is given by the North Central Regional Committee on Management of Small Grain Diseases here... http://cropwatch.unl.edu/c/document_library/get_file?uuid=9fc73f29-7c22-4a7a-9b85-db3262a4420a&groupId=1841&.pdf.  

The race of stripe rust this year has not been determined yet. Therefore, varieties that were rated as resistant last year may be at risk if there is a new race this year. Wheat at earlier stages of development is at greater risk of substantial yield loss from stripe rust than wheat at advanced stages of development.



US Ethanol Stocks at 18-Month Low

The latest set of data from the Energy Information Administration released late Wednesday morning shows fuel ethanol stocks in the United States were drawn down further last week, declining 200,000 barrels (bbl), or 1.1%, to an 18-month low at 16.8 million bbl, as output by plants across the nation fell 1.5% from a week prior.

Total ethanol stockpiles for the week-ended May 3 are down 4.5 million bbl, or 21%, from a year earlier, plumbing their lowest level since early Nov. 4, 2011, when inventories were at 16.43 million bbl.

The production rate at U.S. ethanol plants at 843,000 barrels per day (bpd) was down 13,000 bpd, or 1.5%, from a week prior and down 53,000 bpd from 897,000 bpd posted a year earlier. The four-week average output rate at 846,000 bpd was down 4.3% from the prior four-week average.

EIA reported no ethanol imports into the U.S. last week for the second straight week.

Refiner and blender net inputs of ethanol, a proxy for demand, held steady at 838,000 bpd for the week reviewed, while up 824,000 bpd from a year earlier. Four-week average demand stood at 841,000 bpd, up 23,000 bpd, or 2.8%, from the prior four-week average.

Elsewhere, the EIA reported implied demand for motor gasoline rose 30,000 bpd to 8.445 million bpd for the week-ended May. 3, while four-week average gasoline demand at 8.5 million bpd was down 2.4% from a year ago.

Gasoline demand for the week averaged 354.7 million gallons daily, up slightly from last week.  Expressed as a percentage of daily gasoline demand, daily ethanol production was 9.98%.

On the co-products side, ethanol producers were using 12.782 million bushels of corn to produce ethanol and 94,081 metric tons of livestock feed, 83,874 metric tons of which were distillers grains. The rest is comprised of corn gluten feed and corn gluten meal. Additionally, ethanol producers were providing 4.39 million pounds of corn oil daily.



NCGA Sets New Membership Record

Membership at the National Corn Growers Association reached a new all-time high with 38,810 on the rolls as April closed. This membership record replaces the former of 38,623 members at the close of August in 2012, when the association had set new records for three consecutive months.

"What is truly unique about this record is that it comes at a time when we usually do not see increased new membership attributable to the National Corn Yield Contest, which normally drives enrollment increases," said NCGA Grower Services Action Team Chair Brandon Hunnicutt. "Setting a record of this nature at this time clearly demonstrates the value our state organizations and farmers across the country see in the work we do. Whether working to promote innovations that increase opportunity or voicing the support of America's farmers for the Renewable Fuels Standard in Washington, NCGA draws upon the strength of its more than 38,000 members so that, together, we can accomplish much more than we ever could acting alone."

Throughout NCGA's history, grassroots efforts have been the strength and driving force behind the organization.

"NCGA programs remain completely farmer-driven, with growers behind each step of a project from conception through the realization of its goals," stated Hunnicutt. "The farmers who actively participate in the organization do so because they value giving back to their industry, putting the interests of the greatest number of farmers from across the country first in every decision they make."

NCGA has members across the contiguous United States. It is part of a federation in cooperation with grower associations and checkoff boards from 28 states, and represents over 300,000 growers who contribute corn checkoff funds in their states.

NCGA Welcomes New Director of Public Policy Beth Elliott
The National Corn Growers Association welcomes Beth Elliott, who joins the organization as a director of public policy.  Elliott, who has worked in a variety of agriculturally focused positions in Washington, will handle ethanol and other energy issues at NCGA's Washington office.

"Beth is an incredibly valuable addition to our team, and we are excited to be able to utilize her broad knowledge base to further enhance our biofuels program," said NCGA Vice President of Public Policy Jon Doggett.  "She brings a deep understanding of both public policy and agriculture to the position and will be a major asset as we confront the challenges facing our ethanol industry on the Hill."

In her most recent position, Elliott served as director of legislative affairs at the National Grain and Feed Association.  Previously, she served as legislative director to Representative Tom Perriello (D-Va.); Legislative Assistant for Rep. John Salazar (D-Colo.) and legislative assistant with Representative Dennis Cardoza (D-CA).

Elliott holds a master's degree in political management from George Washington University and a bachelor's degree in government and international politics with an English minor from George Mason University in Fairfax, Va.  Additionally, Elliott earned a certificate from the Energy and Minerals Field Institute at the Colorado School of Mines.

Elliott has personal experience in farming, as her family owns and operates a dairy farm in Virginia.



AFBF Joins Groups in New Crop Insurance Agreement

The American Farm Bureau Federation has joined with a diverse group of 44 conservation, environmental, crop insurance and agricultural organizations in distributing a position paper that outlines a common-sense compromise to link conservation compliance and crop insurance premium assistance and to oppose means testing, payment limitations or premium subsidy reductions for the crop insurance program.

These recommendations have been submitted to leadership of the Senate and House Agriculture committees for their consideration for debate on the new farm bill. In a letter to Senate Agriculture Committee leaders, the organizations said the position provides “an effective farm and natural resource safety net.”

“Farm Bureau is convinced this agreement will move the farm bill forward,” said AFBF President Bob Stallman. “This is a balanced agreement that provides fairness and a measure of certainty to farmers regarding the availability of risk management tools while at the same time helping to conserve natural resources. It’s a win-win situation that was reached by a group of organizations that came together under a banner of common-sense and collaboration.”

In the spirit of compromise and in the interest of completing a farm bill this year, each of the groups has committed to not support amendments beyond this compromise that might weaken the crop insurance program or amendments that might not link conservation compliance with crop insurance premium assistance, according to the letter.

"It is no secret that much of agriculture fought the compliance amendment during last year’s Senate debate on the farm bill,” Stallman explained. “But our desire to avoid a time-consuming and contentious debate with our long-standing partners on workable environmental stewardship programs helped build a consensus around rational provisions that protect farmers while furthering the conservation of natural resources.”

Stallman, a Texas rice farmer and cattle rancher, said it is important to note this agreement does not propose to change current conservation compliance requirements. The recommendations offered apply only to the linkage of conservation compliance and crop insurance premium assistance or availability.

Under the recommendations, crop insurance would continue to be available to help farmers manage their risks and meet the requirements of their lenders. But under certain circumstances, if a farmer is found to be out of compliance with conservation mandates, his or her eligibility for premium assistance would be eliminated until compliance conditions are satisfied.

“This approach to re-linking crop insurance and conservation compliance should provide USDA sufficient flexibility to work with farmers to ensure compliance in a balanced, fair manner,” Stallman said.

FB: WRDA Passage Essential for Economic Growth
Passage of the Water Resources Development Act of 2013 (S. 601), is essential to America’s economic growth, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.

In a joint letter with 20 other agricultural groups, AFBF told members of the Senate that passage of WRDA would authorize new projects for flood protection, port improvements and upgrades to the nation’s aging locks and dams infrastructure. It would also improve U.S. transportation capacity, relieve growing congestion on U.S. highways and foster a more competitive transportation system. The bill was passed unanimously by the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee in April.

“America’s inland waterways and ports long have provided U.S. farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses with a strong comparative advantage, enhancing our ability to efficiently and competitively serve domestic and global markets, as well as to secure essential crop inputs for production of grains, oilseeds and other agricultural commodities,” the letter stated. “By far the lowest cost and most environmentally sustainable transportation mode, inland waterway transportation costs are two to three times less than other modes, translating into an annual savings of $7 billion.”

Ninety-five percent of U.S. agricultural exports and imports are transported through U.S. harbors. These exports and navigation activity support more than 400,000 jobs.

However, unless WRDA is approved, the inland waterway system is at risk of becoming a potential detriment to the nation rather than a comparative strength.

“A staggering 57 percent of the locks on the Upper Mississippi and Illinois River System were built in the 1930s with a projected 50-year lifespan, and are in desperate need of modernization and expansion,” the letter explained. “Of those, 26 percent are more than 70 years old. The 2013 infrastructure report card issued by the American Society of Civil Engineers gave the inland waterways a D- grade.”

Farm Bureau urged the addition of two key provisions during Senate floor consideration: that remaining costs for completion of the Olmsted lock and dam on the Ohio River be financed through federal funding; and that the Senate adopt the increase in the barge diesel fuel user fee. The increase is supported by both barge carriers and their customers, including agricultural shippers and will provide the financial wherewithal to initiate and complete lock projects authorized by S. 601.



Assessing Nitrogen Needs after Early Season Precipitation

With dry conditions last summer and early precipitation growers may be having a harder time assessing nitrogen needs this year.

This past summer N stayed in the soil profile longer due to little precipitation. For those with below trend line yields that applied N for trend line or higher yields in the spring of 2012, much of the N was still in the soil last fall.

According to DuPont Pioneer agronomists, the soil N “carried over” could be a great benefit for the corn crop in June. However, as growers continue to receive precipitation, the likelihood of that happening is getting smaller. Spring storms will likely leech the N out of the soil before the plants use it.

While N fertilizers such as anhydrous ammonia, urea and urea-ammonium nitrate (UAN) exist in various forms, the basics of nitrogen availability still apply. Stable ammonium (NH4+) forms are gradually broken down into highly soil mobile nitrate (NO3-) that readily leeches out of the soil profile. This break down process is known as nitrification. Nitrification generally occurs at soil temperatures above 50 degrees, and increases as temperatures rise above this level.

Nitrification inhibitors such as nitrapyrin and DCD (dicyandiamide) are compounds that slow the conversion of ammonium to nitrate and have proven effective for this purpose.



NMPF Joins More than 50 Dairy Organizations in Urging House Agriculture Committee to Include Dairy Security Act in Farm Bill

More than 50 state and national dairy organizations, including the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), sent a joint letter today to members of the House Agriculture Committee, urging that panel to include the Dairy Security Act (DSA) in upcoming Farm Bill. The House Ag panel is expected to begin drafting a Farm Bill next Wednesday.

The letter, which can be found online, said that dairy producers need “a financially-sound risk management program to help farmers better manage margin volatility,” noting that the economic conditions that led to the development of the DSA after the dairy depression in 2009 – low milk prices and high feed costs generating terrible margins – were experienced again by America’s dairy farmers last year, when feed costs soared to record levels as milk prices dropped.

The coalition’s letter – signed by 52 separate organizations – urged House members to oppose a competing proposal to be offered by Reps. Bob Goodlatte (R-VA) and David Scott (D-GA), the “Dairy Freedom Act,” because it would weaken the safety net for farmers in order to benefit dairy processors. The Dairy Freedom Act strips out the market stabilization component from the DSA.

The letter says that “Without the discipline offered by market stabilization, low milk prices will continue for longer periods. This is detrimental to farmers. Low milk prices will lead to more government outlays. This is detrimental to taxpayers. The Dairy Freedom Act is supported by processors precisely because it offers them the prospect of lower milk prices, subsidized by government insurance payments. This scenario is not sustainable. Free margin insurance alone is a costly ruse.”

The farm groups assert that “Market stabilization sends a clear signal to farmers participating in this program that a bit less milk is needed. Not only does this hasten a rebound in low-margin situations, it reduces the cost of the program to the government.”

The joint letter points out that “The real threat to the growth of our domestic dairy industry is not a market stabilization program that will only rarely activate; it’s the further damage to our dairy producer sector that would result from an ill-conceived processors’ dream plan to assure themselves a sea of taxpayer-subsidized milk.” Also, the letter notes, the DSA is “a voluntary approach to risk management, which offers producers the choice to participate.”

“The U.S. dairy industry is demonstrating a level of unity and support for the Dairy Security Act that is unprecedented for our industry. These organizations share the belief that the status quo is not an option for our future, and we stand united behind the Dairy Security Act as a rare opportunity for the dairy industry to collectively support reasonable, financially-sound changes to our Federal policies,” said the letter.

The following groups signed onto the letter: Agri-Mark, Alabama Dairy Producers, Arkansas Dairy Cooperative Association, Associated Milk Producers Inc., Colorado Dairy Farmers, Continental Dairy Products, Inc., Cooperative Milk Producers Association, Dairy Farmers of America, Dairy Farmers Working Together, Dairy Producers of New Mexico, Dairy Producers of Utah, Dairylea Cooperative Inc., Dairymen's Marketing Cooperative, Inc., Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery, Farmers Cooperative Creamery, FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative, First District Association, Foremost Farms USA, Holstein Association USA, Inc., Idaho Dairymen’s Association, Iowa State Dairy Association, Kansas Dairy Association, Land O’Lakes, Lone Star Milk Producers, Maryland Dairy Industry Association, Maryland & Virginia Milk Producers Coop. Assoc., Michigan Milk Producers Association, Midwest Dairy Coalition, Mid-West Dairymen's Company, Milk Producers Council, Missouri Dairy Association, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, National Farmers Organization, National Milk Producers Federation, North Carolina Dairy Producers Association, Northeast Dairy Farmers Cooperatives, Northwest Dairy Association, Oregon Dairy Farmers Association, Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc., Premier Milk Inc., Scioto County Cooperative Milk Producers' Association, Select Milk Producers, Inc., South Carolina Dairy Association, South Dakota Dairy Producers, St. Albans Cooperative Creamery, Swiss Valley Farms Company, Tillamook County Creamery Association, United Dairymen of Arizona, Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc., Virginia State Dairymen’s Association, Washington State Dairy Federation, and Zia Milk Producers, Inc.



Neogen Launches Comprehensive Cattle Genomic Test

Neogen Corporation announced the development of a new genomic test that offers the beef cattle industry an unprecedented level of information on the genetic potential of individual animals.

Neogen's new GeneSeek Genomic Profiler (GGP-HD) contributes comprehensive data included in Angus genomic-enhanced expected progeny differences (GE-EPDs), which reveal an animal's genetic potential well before breeding, as well as the animal's parentage, and important genetic trait and disease information on the animal. With Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI), Neogen recently announced the availability of a breed-specific version of the new product, the GeneSeek Angus GGP-HD.

"This new test solidifies Neogen's position as the leading provider of genetic testing to the cattle industry," said James Herbert, Neogen's CEO and chairman. "Especially now with the recent changes in the cattle industry, decisions ranchers make on individual animals can be critical to maximizing that ranch's profitability. With this one test, a rancher can decide if the heifer has the genetic merit to keep on the ranch, and exclude the animals that would make poor choices for breeding, or would develop a genetic condition that would reduce its value."

Results from the advanced GeneSeek Angus GGP-HD test will be incorporated into Angus GE-EPDs, which are available on a weekly basis through the American Angus Association National Cattle Evaluation. In 2009, AGI, in collaboration with Neogen's Igenity subsidiary, provided the beef industry with Angus-specific GE-EPDs. Since that time, AGI has continued to foster the research and implementation strategy with GeneSeek to continue to bring high-quality genomic tests into the weekly EPD updates used by Angus breeders and their customers.

The GeneSeek GGP-HD technology is an improvement on the well-known Igenity Profile for Angus test. The custom, high density chip features a unique new design that features nearly 78,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) selectively chosen from studies on thousands of animals. The test provides parentage information at no extra charge. Specialty add-on tests will be available for a number of genetic conditions at minimal additional cost.

As another product offering, Neogen offers beef cattlemen a beef heifer replacement test for breeds other than Angus, including trait detection for Bos indicus-influenced females. The company also offers the beef industry a comprehensive line of animal health products, including veterinary instruments, uniquely detectable D3 needles, and disinfectants, cleaners and rodenticides to enhance a ranch's biosecurity.

Valentine’s Peppermill Claims “Best Burger” Title

Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers along with the Nebraska Beef Council have announced Peppermill and E.K. Valentine Lounge in Valentine, NE as the winner of the third annual “Nebraska’s Best Burger” contest. The contest selection was made through online nominations and a panel of judges.

The contest sought nominations throughout March, resulting in over 2,100 submissions for 293 different restaurants. The Peppermill’s Joseph Angus Burger received enough nominations to reach the top five and was ultimately awarded the best burger by a panel of judges who conducted an anonymous taste test. The Joseph Angus Burger is a ten ounce beef hamburger with jalapeno bacon, cob-smoked ham, barbeque sauce, house ranch dressing, Swiss and cheddar cheeses and is topped with two crispy homemade onion rings.

“We are pleased to present this year’s Best Burger Award to the Peppermill” said Adam Wegner, Director of Marketing for the Nebraska Beef Council. “Being located in the nation’s largest beef cow county, it’s fitting that they would serve an award winning burger.”

The Peppermill was opened in 1987 by William R. Joseph in the historic Fort Niobrara Hotel building in downtown Valentine. A large outdoor garden and banquet hall were added as well as several interior updates throughout the next 8 years. In 1995 William's son, Roger bought the business and developed the concept from cafe to steakhouse and event facility. In 2007 the Peppermill in downtown Valentine closed and Roger's son, Robert re-opened the Peppermill and E.K. Valentine Lounge on highway 20 in Valentine.

The Peppermill will be awarded the first place plaque and will be featured by the Beef Council as part of Nebraska Beef Month.

Four other restaurants rounded out the top five in the contest include the runner-up Dinker’s Bar in Omaha, followed by Greta’s Gourmet in Lincoln, Tommy Colina’s Kitchen in Omaha and the Union Bar in Gering.  A complete list of nominated restaurants is available on www.nebeef.org.



May Beef Month Feature - Japanese “Sophisticated Beef Recipes” Highlight U.S. Beef

An elegant cookbook devoted entirely to American beef is one of the fruits of a Japanese media team brought that beef checkoff contractor U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) brought to the U.S. in 2012. The writer for ELLE a table, a high-end international food magazine that introduces upscale restaurants and global cuisine trends, was part of the journalist team visit.

The ELLE a table writer interviewed seven chefs in Japan and the U.S., and published their favorite U.S. beef recipes. Among them, the chef from Dean & Deluca Tokyo introduced beef tenderloin in a chilled dish, and the chef from Fette Sau, a popular Brooklyn barbecue restaurant, explained how to barbecue U.S. rib eye. Restaurants from Los Angeles and Portland, Ore., also are featured in the cookbook, “Sophisticated Beef Recipes: Using American Beef.’

“After visiting ranches and restaurants in the U.S. and seeing the care that goes into production of American beef, the writer decided that U.S. beef deserved its own recipe book and profile with a perspective both from Japan and the States,’ says Tazuko Hijikata, USMEF-Japan senior manager for consumer affairs.

“ELLE a table reaches opinion leaders in the food industry,’ adds Hijikata. “Some restaurants the author described in the magazine were later profiled on television programs in Japan and have seen their business increase.’

A number of the Japanese chefs featured in the book had been advocates for U.S. beef but had switched to other suppliers after the first American BSE case in 2003. The ELLE a table project helped reacquaint them with the quality and value of U.S. beef and inspired them to begin using U.S. beef in their own restaurants again.

The slick, full-color, 96-page book, which features 74 recipes for dishes centered around U.S. beef, has a circulation of 40,000.

In addition to the free-standing recipe book, the editorial department of ELLE a table inserted a shortened version into an issue of the magazine to help build awareness of the book and to promote the quality and tastiness of American beef.

Among the features in the book is a profile of a family owned farm in Oregon. Titled “Country Natural Beef,’ the article explains how carefully the family produces beef in the great outdoors of the United States. The author introduces the profile with: “Discover the secrets: why American beef is so tasty.’

USMEF-Japan worked with ELLE a table in anticipation of the recent decision by Japan to expand access for U.S. beef to product from cattle up to 30 months of age.

Last year, U.S. beef exports to Japan jumped 18 percent in value over 2011, reaching $1.03 billion.



A Tale of Two Forage Regions
Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension Forage Specialist

East versus west. Wet versus dry. Looks like we are starting this year with very different conditions depending on where you live.

If you pay any attention to weather reports, you probably have noticed that we Nebraskans are experiencing two very different worlds of weather. Much of eastern Nebraska has received relatively abundant precipitation this past month, not enough to fully recharge soil moisture but at least enough to give us a good start. Unfortunately, most of central and western Nebraska, especially the Panhandle and southwest, still remain locked in the drought.

Why is this important? I think it's important for you to realize this when you read or listen to farm and ranch advice in magazines, in newspapers, even on the radio like from me. Most advice assumes certain kinds of growing conditions. Advice for good moisture locations usually isn't suitable for drought areas and recommendations dealing with drought rarely optimize production when rainfall is good.

I know you recognize this difference, but sometimes when advice is given it isn't all that clear what weather conditions are required for the advice to be useful. For example, I often discuss fertilizing grasses during spring but sometimes I don't comment much on fertilizing relative to spring soil moisture conditions. That advice assumes that moisture will be adequate to take advantage of the potential growth stimulation by the fertilizer. So B the advice is good for folks in areas with adequate moisture but should be ignored if you are in drought.

This kind of confusion or apparently misleading advice is likely to continue until either everyone is in full drought again or the entire region is back to good moisture.

Until then, only use the advice that fits your conditions.



NDA ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF LIVESTOCK TRADE COST-SHARE FUNDING

On behalf of U.S. Livestock Genetics Export (USLGE), the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) is reminding Nebraskans of the availability of cost-share funds to promote U.S. livestock exports.

The funds are available to private livestock breeders, companies, or cooperatives interested in promoting livestock, semen, or embryo sales in international markets through December 31, 2013.  These funds are available through the Market Access Program (MAP) of the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

“This is a wonderful opportunity for Nebraska farmers, ranchers and livestock companies to enter into or expand their presence in the international marketplace,” said Stan Garbacz, NDA’s agricultural trade representative.

The MAP branded program provides for partial reimbursement (up to 50 percent) of the cost of approved activities, such as international advertising, the development, translation and distribution of promotional materials, and participation in foreign trade shows and exhibitions.  Funds cannot be used for travel or personnel reimbursement.  An administrative fee is charged to participate in the program.

For more information about the program, please contact NDA at (402) 471-2341, or the USLGE at (618) 548-9154.



Johanns Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Help Ag Producers, Small Businesses Manage Their Risk

U.S. Sens. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) are leading a bipartisan coalition of Senators in introducing a bill to clarify the exemption for farmers, ranchers, manufacturers and small businesses from margin requirements included in the Dodd-Frank financial legislation.  These exempted groups, known as end-users, use derivatives to manage their risk and insure against extreme price fluctuations for commodities and inputs – like seed and fertilizer – critical to their business operations.

Johanns said, “Farmers, ranchers and businesses use every tool available to responsibly protect themselves and their customers from unforeseen risks like drought or fluctuations in fuel, fertilizer or commodity prices.  Our bipartisan legislation allows these local businesses to continue doing that without battling burdensome and costly margin requirements meant to cover day-traders playing the markets.”

Tester said, “This bill ensures that Montana farmers and ranchers can continue to effectively manage risks, protect their livelihoods, and provide for their families.  Smart risk management strengthens our economy, and this bill clarifies Congress’ intent to give small businesses the flexibility and certainty they need to successfully run their businesses.”

Joining Johanns and Tester are Sens. Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.), Kay Hagan (D-N.C.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Richard Shelby (R-Ala.), Pat Toomey (R-Pa.), and Mark Warner (D-Va.).

The bill is identical to H.R. 634, which today unanimously passed the House of Representatives’ Financial Services Committee.  It clarifies current law by making explicit that commercial end-users are not subject to costly margin requirements, consistent with Congress’ intent in Dodd-Frank.

End-users are the final user of a good or product.  Ranchers, for example, could purchase derivatives contracts on corn in advance of the harvest to protect themselves against unforeseen market fluctuations.  Dodd-Frank included margin requirements forcing non-end-users and those speculating on market prices to post margin to cover the risks associated with their derivative purchases.

Dodd-Frank included an exemption for non-financial end-users based on the low risks they pose to the financial system.  Despite Congress’ intent, there has been a debate over how broadly the exemption would apply.  The Commodity Futures Trading Commission and Securities and Exchange Commission previously issued a joint rule that would exempt end-users from margin, but the Federal Reserve has issued regulations that would capture many end-users in their regulations.  



Climate Change Impacts Already Being Felt Worldwide

            Climate change already is being felt around the world, and society must figure out how to adapt to the changes already underway and mitigate the severity of future impacts, experts said Tuesday (May 7) at the global Water for Food Conference.

            The fifth annual conference, hosted by the Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Institute at the University of Nebraska and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, continued into a second day. Its theme is "Too Hot, Too Wet, Too Dry: Building Resilient Agroecosystems."

            Managing climate change is one key facet of feeding a global population expected to grow from 7 billion to 9 billion by 2050.

            "Climate change is happening right now," Heidi Cullen, chief climatologist for Climate Central, told reporters at a morning briefing. Scientists have measured an average temperature increase of 1.5 degrees on the planet, with the potential that it could become a 7- to 11-degree increase in the future.

            "As the planet warms we expect to see more extreme events," said Cullen, whose Climate Central is a nonprofit science journalism organization. Those will include longer heat waves and droughts and more heavy rainfall events.

            Rosina Bierbaum, a professor of natural resources and environment at the University of Michigan, said recent events such as Hurricane Sandy "make it clear we're not prepared to cope with the droughts and floods of today, let alone the increase in these events in the future."

            The good news, Bierbaum said, is that thousands of efforts are underway across the U.S., with many of them showing promise. Assembling useful information on best practices is key to adapting to already existing change and mitigating future change, she added.

            Christo Fabricius, who has spent more than 20 years working on natural resource issues in sub-Saharan Africa, one of the world's epicenters for the looming water for food challenge, also warned about the threat of climate change in a world where "219,000 new people need food every day."

            Sixty-six nations cannot now produce enough food for their populations, and significant investments in research and extension are needed to help reverse that. Unfortunately, sub-Saharan Africa spends an average of just 1 percent of its agricultural GDP on research and extension, said Fabricius, who leads the sustainability research unit of the Resilience Alliance at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University in South Africa.

            In the U.S. a robust research and extension tradition helped producers and others deal with the 2012 flash drought, said Charles Hibberd, dean of University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension. Drought occurs routinely in the region and land-grant universities such as UNL have worked with producers for decades to develop strategies to deal with it, as well as to reduce water use even in good times.

            "We're always preparing for drought," Hibberd said.

            Better irrigation technology and practices have developed, as have other extension-promoted management techniques such as skip-row planting, all of which have helped producers use water more efficiently, Hibberd said.

            But last year's drought developed and spread so quickly, it caught many by surprise. Hibberd said extension was able to rapidly deliver "just-in-time information" to producers to help them deal with the crisis. Those efforts have continued through the winter as the drought is expected to linger and have consequences this year.

            Producers from Brazil, Nebraska and Colorado discussed their efforts to build resilient, sustainable operations that can weather change. For example, Mike Kelly, whose ranch sits at the southern edge of Nebraska's Sandhills, worked with federal and state partners to revamp a section of the Birdwood Creek that runs through his land. A previous owner had straightened more than a mile of it, resulting in faster water  flow that reduced the area's water table. The project restored the creek's original, meandering path, which has restored the water table and improved grass production along it.

            Duke Phillips, who owns and operates two large diversified ranching businesses in Colorado, said he thinks ranchers, a dwindling breed, have a responsibility to help educate urban dwellers. To that end, he welcomes to his ranch about 2,000 kids who think "cowboys are out riding horses and shooting guns."

            His dude ranch puts visitors to work and is home to concerts and art exhibits.

            "My goal has changed from trying to create my own world to trying to create an opportunity for people to get together and learn about each other," Phillips said.       

            During its first two days, the conference drew about 400 people from around the world who are working to overcome the urgent challenge of growing more food with less water.

            Additional information about the 2013 Water for Food Conference is online at: http://waterforfood.nebraska.edu/wff2013. The conference, sponsored by Monsanto, continues through Wednesday.



Ray and Neale Bring Expertise to Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Institute

            Two eminent water resources experts are bringing their broad experience and leadership to the Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Institute at the University of Nebraska.

            Chittaranjan Ray will join the DWFI in August as director of the Nebraska Water Center, and Christopher M. U. Neale will join the DWFI in October as director of research.

            The two will be members of founding executive director Roberto Lenton's leadership team for the institute.

            Neale is professor in the Irrigation Engineering Division of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at Utah State University and has been a leader in remote sensing and management of agricultural water resources since joining the faculty there in 1988.

            Neale holds a doctorate in agricultural engineering from Colorado State University. He has extensive experience working in water research and management projects in the western U.S. and in South America, Africa and the Caribbean.

            He is president-elect of the International Commission on Remote Sensing of the International Association of Hydrological Sciences and will assume the presidency in July 2014.

            Ray is professor of civil engineering at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and is currently the interim director of the Water Resources Research Center at the University of Hawaii, which like the Nebraska Water Center is part of a network of more than 54 water resources research institutes at land-grant universities nationwide.

            Prior to joining the faculty at the University of Hawaii in 1997, Ray held positions in industry and at the Illinois State Water Survey.

            He has a doctorate in civil engineering from the University of Illinois, and he has extensive experience in many facets of managing both water quantity and water quality issues.

            "I am delighted by the appointment of Drs. Neale and Ray," said Roberto Lenton, executive director of the Water for Food Institute. "They will play critically important roles in advancing the work of the Water for Food Institute in Nebraska and other parts of the world facing critical water for food challenges."

            The Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Institute at the University of Nebraska is a research, education and policy analysis institute committed to helping the world efficiently use its limited freshwater resources, with particular focus on ensuring the food supply for current and future generations.



Report examines Climate Change and Carbon Sequestration

Today the Center for Rural Affairs released a report titled, Banking on Carbon, which examines opportunities for farming and ranching practices to mitigate climate change through the potential for agricultural soils to pull carbon out of the air, thereby reducing atmospheric greenhouse gas levels.

A full copy of the report can be viewed and downloaded at: http://files.cfra.org/pdf/Banking-On-Carbon.pdf.

“The climate is changing at a quickening pace as a direct result of human activities,” said Wyatt Fraas, Assistant Director of Rural Opportunities and Stewardship at the Center for Rural Affairs and author of the report.

“While there is no single “silver bullet” agricultural solution that will fit the variety of cropping systems, climates and soils across the country; farming and ranching systems could be tailored to meet these challenges through targeted research.” Wyatt Fraas, Center for Rural Affairs.

Because farming and ranching contribute a relatively small portion of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, reducing agricultural emissions, while beneficial, pale in comparison to the greatest tool farming and ranching have to reduce atmospheric carbon, namely sequestration in agricultural soils, Fraas continued.

According to Fraas, his report seeks to encourage farming and ranching efforts to sequester atmospheric carbon in agricultural soils. It also describes other practices and public policy options that can decrease atmospheric carbon and increase farm and ranch resilience to climate change.

“Current agricultural recommendations to reduce global warming are to farm with no-till techniques, plant trees, reduce fertilizer use and capture methane at confinement livestock operations, added Fraas. “However, more and better approaches can greatly increase the carbon captured and emissions reduced. Most of these enhanced practices will also make farm and ranch land more resilient and better able to withstand effects of global climate change.”

Farm policy must encourage changes in the ways farmers and ranchers conserve their soil and water, and in the crops they plant. At the Center for Rural Affairs, we are looking for solutions to these challenges. This report, Banking on Carbon, details what we have found so far, Fraas explained.

Policy recommendations found in Banking on Carbon include:
-    Build conservation and carbon payment programs that complement each other. Carbon practices should not impair other conservation objectives such as erosion control, water quality and wildlife habitat. Landowners should be allowed to “stack” payments for carbon management with incentives for conservation to achieve these broader benefits.
-    Prioritize research to guide protocols for carbon payments. Current payments reward a narrow slice of practices while a wide array of practices with proven carbon sequestration potential (cover crops, crop rotations, diverse plantings, managed grazing systems, grass-based livestock systems, and combinations of such practices) go unrecognized. One “silver bullet” solution will not fit the variety of cropping systems, climates and soils across the country, but systems could be tailored to meet those requirements through targeted research.
-    Protect long-term results of carbon payments. Initial carbon trading protocols were for only five-year terms, with the credit recipient free to end the practice and return the sequestered carbon to the atmosphere. Measures that ensure sequestered carbon remains sequestered are necessary. However, current payments are inadequate incentive for landowners to enter into long-term agreements.
-    Provide real “additionality” to carbon payments. Only new and “additional” efforts to reduce emissions or capture carbon should qualify for incentives. EPA and USDA should develop guidelines for determining when practices approach the usual and thus no longer require incentive and for addressing emissions caused by technologies that are in decline, such as anaerobic lagoons. This will eliminate payments for what would have been done anyway; a practice that wastes limited resources. In addition, it is critical to foster innovation by paying those who have led the way in the past with early adoption.
-    Incorporate agricultural resilience into carbon management. Many farming/ranching practices both sequester carbon and reduce the effects of climate changes. Increasing soil organic carbon improves crop yields, absorbs more water during storms and stores it longer, resists erosion, and reduces drought effects. While reducing emissions and capturing carbon are necessary to slow global warming, a simultaneous effort to deal with its impacts – which have already begun – is a realistic response to maintaining crop production, food supplies and the farm economy.
-    Ensure that bioenergy production works in concert with soil carbon goals. When crop residues or dedicated energy crops are considered for cellulosic ethanol and biomass energy production, we risk losing carbon from the soil. We also remove the nitrogen in the crop residue. If that nitrogen is replaced by manufactured nitrogen, the practice will generate additional emissions of the potent greenhouse gas nitrous oxide. Much more crop residue is required to maintain soil carbon and fertility than to reduce erosion, which had been guiding plans for energy crops. USDA should also research the potential for other “win-win” options for sourcing biomass for biofuel production, such as limited biomass harvest from Conservation Reserve Program acres timed to minimize damage to wildlife.



TPP talks key to opening Japan
Sen. Mike Johanns & Dan Glickman
(from Politico)

Japan’s recent decision to seek inclusion in the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations could be a game-changer for U.S. agriculture and good news for our country’s overall economy. We welcome the Obama’s administration announcement that it would support Japan’s inclusion, and we urge other countries to do the same.

Japan, Asia’s second largest economy, has strong demand for the agricultural products America’s farmers and ranchers can supply. Globally, it is the fourth largest market for these products. In 2012 alone, U.S. agricultural exports to Japan topped $13.5 billion. That is eight times higher than United States exports to Vietnam, which is the next biggest agricultural market among the TPP nations that don’t have existing free-trade agreements with the United States.

What’s even more remarkable about these trade levels is that the U.S. has been able to achieve them despite Japan’s history of placing restrictions on key imports. As secretaries of agriculture, we heard many concerns about these restrictions from U.S. producers, and we know the direct impact they have on opening access to Japan’s market. The first step to improving trade relations, however, is to sit down at the negotiating table. That is why Japan’s entry into the TPP now is so essential to improving market access for U.S. producers. For many U.S. agricultural products — such as wheat, barley, rice, beef, pork, poultry, dairy products and soybean oil — improved trade relations with Japan will most likely increase exports and in turn boost our nation’s economy at a time when job creation and growth are very much needed.

The simple fact is that nations rarely reduce or eliminate tariffs unilaterally. Tariff quotas and similar trade-limiting measures are usually reduced as part of trade negotiations. Since 2009, the multilateral trade talks at the World Trade Organization’s Doha round have been stalled. That is why Japan’s becoming a negotiating member of TPP offers the best hope for improved market access and eventual free trade with Japan.

Japan produces many high-quality farm products, and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has rightfully recognized that growth in those products must come from global markets. For years, Japanese policies regarding agriculture have been defensive, seeking to protect Japanese producers from global markets rather than take advantage of the opportunities beyond the country’s borders. Earlier this year, Japan took another important step in reducing trade barriers by easing restrictions on imported U.S. beef. We welcome this shift in thinking and hope it bears fruit in the TPP negotiations for both countries.

Trade agreements strengthen the economies of trading partners while often forging friendships in parts of the world where we need strong allies. Japan and the U.S. have maintained an important alliance, as two great democracies, for more than five decades. It is a partnership that must be sustained and nurtured, especially during troublesome times in this important region.

It is, of course, impossible to predict the outcome of the negotiations with Japan on TPP. But we can safely predict that without Japan in those talks, an opportunity will have been lost for U.S. agriculture and the broader economy of our country and the countries lining the Pacific Rim. It is an opportunity, and we hope all of the TPP negotiating partners embrace Japan’s entry into the talks.

Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.) was secretary of agriculture in the administration of President George W. Bush; former Congressman Dan Glickman (D-Kan.) was secretary of agriculture under President Bill Clinton.



Harkin, Franken Introduce Energy Section of Farm Bill

U.S. Sens. Tom Harkin (D-IA) Al Franken (D-MN) introduced the energy legislation to be included in the 2013 Farm Bill, which includes several provisions expected to create jobs throughout Minnesota and the country. Sens. Harkin and Franken's Rural Energy Investment Act will help farmers, ranchers, and rural communities by encouraging the growth of agricultural energy technologies, including advanced biofuels, biogas, biomass, and renewable energies.

"The 2002 farm bill included an energy title for the first time to send a message that our farms, ranches, and rural communities are on the front lines of producing new energy sources such as bioenergy and windpower," said Sen. Harkin. "These energy programs are essential for expanding clean energy supplies, which also spur rural economic development and job creation. The tradition of providing strong support for an energy title in a farm bill must continue today, so for that reason I am hopeful that this measure will serve as a marker as the 2013 bill moves through the U.S. Senate."

"Advancing our agricultural energy technologies is good for our farmers and economy, and it improves our overall energy independence and security," said Sen. Franken. "This legislation will create jobs and play a critical role in cutting costs for our farmers and producers and will help them with the adoption of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. I look forward to incorporating it into this year's Farm Bill."

Sen. Franken and Harkin's bill is cosponsored by Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash), Tim Johnson (D-S.D.), Sen. William "Mo" Cowan (D-Mass.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii.).

The Rural Energy Investment Act also contains several programs that will specifically help Iowa, including:

-- The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), which was included in the 2012 Farm Bill that passed the Senate. The program helps agriculture producers and businesses in rural areas invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects so they can cut energy bills and earn additional income by selling the energy they produce.

-- The Biorefinery Assistance Program (BAP), which assists in the development of new and emerging technologies for advanced biofuels through support for the construction and retrofitting of biorefineries for the production of advanced biofuels.

-- The Biomass Crop Assistance Program (BCAP), which provides financial assistance to owners and operators of agricultural land and non-industrial private forest land who wish to establish, produce, and deliver biomass feedstock to energy producers.

-- The Biomass Research and Development Initiative (BRDI), which provides competitive funding in the form of grants, contracts, and financial assistance for research, development, and demonstration of technologies and processes leading to significant commercial production of biofuels, biobased energy, feedstocks, and products--including the development of cost-competitive cellulosic ethanol.

Since 2009, thousands of direct and indirect jobs have been created or saved in rural areas by the Farm Bill's energy programs that benefitted almost 12,000 rural small businesses, agricultural producers, and advanced biofuel refineries across the country. Continued growth in new agriculture, manufacturing, and high tech jobs are at great risk without continued Federal investment.

A strong energy section of the Farm Bill has the support of a coalition of over 100 agriculture and energy organizations.



Iowa Receives Presidential Disaster Declaration

Gov. Terry E. Branstad received word that a Presidential Disaster Declaration has been issued for five Iowa counties. The five counties included in the declaration are Dickinson, Lyon, O'Brien, Osceola and Sioux.

The Governor sent the request for the declaration on Friday, April 26, in response to severe weather which occurred April 9-11, 2013. The severe weather produced damaging winds, heavy rains, thunderstorms, freezing rain, ice and snow that caused damage to utility lines, poles, trees and vegetation.

The declaration by the President will provide federal funding to the declared counties under the Public Assistance Program. A Presidential Major Disaster Declaration for Public Assistance puts into motion long-term federal recovery programs, some of which are matched by state programs, and designed to help public entities and select non-profits. Public Assistance funds may be used for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities and may include debris removal, emergency protective measures, repair of damaged public property, loans needed by communities for essential government functions and grants for public schools.

The Governor also received notification that the Presidential Disaster Declaration includes funding to conduct hazard mitigation activities for the entire state. With this funding, Iowa will be able to minimize the impact of future natural disasters by taking steps now to strengthen existing infrastructure.

This Presidential Disaster Declaration is the 15th Major Presidential Disaster Declaration Iowa has received since March 2007.



Iowa Soybean Association, FFA combat food insecurity at packaging event

The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) joined GROWMARK in sponsoring the packaging of more than 260,000 soy-based Meals From The Heartland during the 85th Iowa FFA Leadership Conference held last month in Ames. Nearly 1,500 FFA volunteers took turns measuring and packaging the nutritious meals that will feed people internationally while building demand for Iowa-grown soybeans. This was the second consecutive year that the ISA, Iowa FFA Foundation and Iowa FFA Association partnered in sponsoring the soy-based meals packaging. Combined, nearly 500,000 servings were packaged and distributed.



USDA's May 10, 2013, World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates Report to Incorporate Some Changes

The May 10 World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report, which will be released at 12 noon EDT, will present USDA's initial assessment of U.S. and world crop supply and demand prospects and U.S. prices for the 2013/14 marketing year. It will also present the first calendar-year 2014 projections of U.S. livestock, poultry, and dairy products.

Changes to the May WASDE will include the following:
-    On pages 20 and 21 in the World Coarse Grain Supply and Use table, Brazil is moved from "Selected Other" to "Major Exporters."
-    On pages 22 and 23, in the World Corn Supply and Use table, Brazil is moved from "Selected Other" to "Major Exporters."
-    On page 28, in the World Soybean Supply and Use table, Paraguay is listed separately under "Major Exporters," and Uruguay is now included in the "Major Exporters" total.

Examples of these changes and five sample WASDE pages for the 2013/14 marketing year can be found on the "Historical Revisions" page on the WASDE website, located at: www.usda.gov/oce/commodity/wasde/revisions/May2013ExamplePages.pdf.

Background on USDA's WASDE report and past issues of the report are available at: www.usda.gov/oce/commodity/wasde/.



Retail Fertilizer Trends

Retail fertilizer prices tracked by DTN for the fifth week of April 2013 remain extremely stable. However, that calm may belie a growing angst as farmers who pre-contracted anhydrous for spring delivery run out of time for application.  Prices for six of the eight major fertilizers slipped lower compared to last month, but these moves to the low side were fairly undersized, DTN's retail survey showed. DAP had average price of $616 per ton, MAP $659/ton, potash $587/ton, urea $571/ton, anhydrous $857/ton and UAN28 $403/ton.  Prices for the remaining two fertilizers edged higher compared to the last week of March, but again the move was slight. 10-34-0 had an average price of $613/ton on and UAN32 $451/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.62/lb.N, anhydrous $0.52/lb.N, UAN28 $0.72/lb.N and UAN32 $0.71/lb.N.

Only one of the eight major fertilizers is showing a price increase compared to one year earlier. Anhydrous is now 13% higher compared to last year.  Four fertilizers are a single digit lower in price compared to April/May 2012. DAP is 4% lower, both MAP and UAN28 are down 5% and UAN32 is 6% lower compared to last year.  The remaining three fertilizers are now down double digits from a year ago. Potash is now down 12% while 10-34-0 is 22% less expensive and urea is 24% lower.



Low Cattle Prices Have Time to Rebound
Although finished-cattle prices that were expected to increase this year for producers remained low in the first quarter, Purdue Extension agricultural economist Chris Hurt said increases could be on the horizon. Hurt said he earlier had thought that beef production would decline by 3 percent for the first half of the year and that cattle prices would be in the $130s by now, but that hasn't happened.

"So far this year, beef supplies have been down close to 1 percent," he said. "That means more beef than we expected, and more beef is certainly one of the contributors to lower cattle prices."

More supply isn't the only component of the lower-than-expected beef prices. Additional contributors include a weaker U.S. economy, reduced pork and chicken exports and high retail beef prices.

"The weak U.S. economy has many consumers shopping for value and beef has had higher retail price increases as compared with competitive animal proteins," Hurt said. "As an example, retail choice beef prices have been at record-high levels this year, reaching $5.30 per retail pound in the month of March."

Over the past six months, beef prices have risen 6 percent more than pork prices, 10 percent more than turkey, 4 percent more than chicken and 7 percent more than eggs.

Higher beef prices for consumers, coupled with lower animal exports - pork exports were down by 14 percent in the first two months and chicken exports by 3 percent - have created more competition in the domestic market for beef.

Hurt said continued small supplies of beef for the rest of the year suggests a brighter future for cattle prices.

"Last-quarter supplies could drop by 6 to 7 percent, with prices rising into the low $130s," he said. "First-quarter prices for next year should improve a few dollars toward the low- to mid-$130s. These forecasts are all higher than current futures prices."

If crop yields are closer to normal this year and corn is about $5 a bushel by harvest, those much lower feed prices will stimulate expansion of all animal species.

Hurt said with lower feed prices and improved pasture conditions, cattle producers are expected to retain more heifers. These early stages of herd expansion will draw the beef supply down even more and lead to higher cattle prices.

"This all suggests better days ahead for both finished cattle and calf prices," he said.



EIA lowers forecast for summer gasoline prices

U.S.  gasoline prices are expected to be lower this summer than previously thought.  The price for regular gasoline this summer is now expected to average $3.53 a gallon, according to the new monthly forecast from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.  That’s down 10 cents from last month’s forecast and 16 cents cheaper than last summer.

After reaching a weekly peak of $3.78 a gallon in late February, pump prices fell nine weeks in a row to $3.52 per gallon by the end of April.  Gasoline is expected to cost less because of lower crude oil prices, which account for about two-thirds of the price drivers pay at the pump.

U.S. crude oil production expected to top 8 million barrels per day, highest output since 1988
U.S. crude oil production in 2014 is now expected to top 8 million barrels per day for the first time in over a quarter century.  The U.S. Energy Information Administration boosted its forecast for daily crude oil production this year by 120,000 barrels to 7.4 million barrels per day.

For 2014, EIA’s forecast for daily production was revised upward by 310,000 barrels to nearly 8.2 million barrels per day.  This would mark the first time since 1988 that U.S. crude oil output exceeded 8 million barrels per day.  The higher production over the next two years will be due mainly to increased oil drilling in North Dakota and Texas.

Additions to natural gas in underground storage to be nearly 50% higher this summer
Although it’s still spring, natural gas supply companies and utilities are already preparing for next winter and are building their inventories of natural gas to meet future heating demand.  About 2.1 trillion cubic feet of natural gas will be added to gas inventories in underground storage over the summer months to get ready for the winter heating season, which starts November 1.  That is significantly higher than the roughly 1.5 trillion cubic feet of gas added during last summer, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s new monthly forecast. 

Higher natural prices this year will lead to lower gas use by power plants to generate electricity, which will contribute to the higher build in gas inventories.



Summit Showcased Ag's Need to Build Relationships and How Words Have Consequences

“The era of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ in agriculture is over,’” remarked Dallas Hockman, to attendees at the Animal Agriculture Alliance’s 12th annual Stakeholders Summit. Hockman, Vice President of Industry Relations for the National Pork Producers Council adamantly told Summit attendees that the ag industry can no longer afford to stay quiet; we must communicate.

More crucially, however, Hockman emphasized that the industry doesn't just need to “communicate” but instead, must form relationships with consumers and recognize their concerns.

“This is about transparency, and transparency means that it’s our job to go and inform our customers, it’s not our customer’s job to come and ask us about something,” said Hockman. “We all know what we’re against, but the challenge is: what are you for? It’s not what you say, it’s what people hear.”

Numerous speakers throughout the day put the responsibility on the industry to communicate to consumers, instead of the other way around.

Earlier in the day, David Wescott, Director of Digital Strategy for APCO Worldwide, told attendees that they must identify their true stakeholders, ask those stakeholders what they want, and then give it to them.

Both Hockman and Wescott discussed the importance of relationship building with consumers. But while communication, engagement and finding the “middle ground” consumers were themes highlighted in the morning’s presentations, the day ended with heated discussions on topics ranging from Hallmark/Westland to engaging the media.

“The consumer has a right to know anything he wants to know about where he’s spending his wholly earned, almighty dollar. That’s a reality,” said Andy Vance, Editor of Feedstuffs and one of the afternoon’s speakers. “Consumers increasingly want to know more about their food and they increasingly are more and more skeptical about companies and industries that don’t give them what they want to know.”

Vance emphasized that the industry needs to think about the five or ten things that it has issues with and analyze those issues objectively. Vance described the presentations of the day as somewhat of a rollercoaster, each offering a different viewpoint, or highlighting a different challenge facing the industry.
The Summit’s first day, certainly ended on a high note, however, with a presentation by famed Peterson Brothers parody creator, Greg Peterson, presenting his videos for the audience. Peterson is the creator, along with his two brothers, of the popular videos “I’m Farming and I Grow it,” and “Farmer Style.”

In addition to Peterson, a Kansas State University Senior, there were also several other college agricultural students in the audience, namely the Animal Agriculture Alliance’s 4th annual College Aggies Scholarship winners: Tiffany Swanson (North Dakota State University), Zachary Frazier (Purdue University) and Karoline Rose (Montana State University). These students were presented with their awards at the Summit’s luncheon on May 1st.

The Summit closed with a half-day “workshop” focused on crisis communications, employee hiring strategies and the intersection of the environmental and animal rights movements and how those partnerships affect agriculture. To view presentations from May 1st, please visit the Alliance website. Presentations from May 2nd are available to Alliance members and registered attendees only.

The 12th annual Stakeholders Summit, themed “Activists at the Door: Protecting Animals, Farms, Food and Consumer Confidence,” was held May 1-2, 2013 in Arlington, Virginia. It included about 200 leaders from across the food chain.

Event sponsors included Alltech Ag Network, U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, Murphy-Brown LLC, Farm Credit, Provimi North America, Merck Animal Health, Zoetis, Hy-Line,  American Feed Industry Association, Bayer Animal Health, United Soybean Board, Alltech, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Pork Board, National Pork Producers Council, Diamond V, Aviagen, Genus/PIC/ABS, United Egg Producers, WATTPublishing Co., Cactus Feeders, BrakkeConsulting, Kemin,  AgriBeef Co., Seaboard Foods, National Association of Farm Broadcasting, Protect the Harvest, Elanco Animal Health and the Potash Corp.



Study Shows Benefits from Integration of Sweet Sorghum Juice in Corn Mash for Ethanol Production

The Sorghum Checkoff in collaboration with the NCERC at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (formerly the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center) is pleased to announce a successful bench-scale evaluation of sweet sorghum juice sugars with corn mash for the production of fuel ethanol.  This study expands upon a commercial-scale trial that was conducted in Hopkinsville, Ky., in late 2012 by Commonwealth Agri-Energy LLC, Delta BioRenewables LLC, Ceres Inc. and the Sorghum Checkoff.

The bench-scale study yielded critical data on the production of ethanol from a combination of the two feedstocks by evaluating fermentation performance at different levels of sweet sorghum juice inclusion in corn mash. The sugar juice was successfully used as a replacement for process water, demonstrating the potential for a corn ethanol plant to increase production above nameplate capacity by incorporating sweet sorghum juice sugars.

“This analysis was extremely successful at the lab scale, and suggests that sweet sorghum juice inclusion could increase the throughput of existing corn ethanol facilities. In addition to increased yields, sorghum juice inclusion may reduce enzyme and nutrient usage per gallon of ethanol produced. Sweet sorghum juice sugar can also help ethanol producers diversify their feedstocks and serve as a bridge to the next generation of biofuels,” said Dr. Sabrina Trupia, NCERC assistant director of research.

John Duff, Sorghum Checkoff renewables program director, says the success of the trial is validation sweet sorghum juice sugars are fully compatible and maybe even synergistic with corn mash in ethanol production.

“Before a corn ethanol plant will take a step toward that next generation it must be confident in its ability to do so successfully,” Duff said. “We think this study will help provide that assurance and support the commercialization of sweet sorghum as a new industrial sugar feedstock crop across the broad geographic area of the country where it can be grown.”

The Sorghum Checkoff and NCERC recognize Delta BioRenewables and Commonwealth Agri-Energy for their input into the study’s experimental design. Delta BioRenewables provided the sweet sorghum juice used in the study.



CWT Assists with 1.9 Million Pounds of Cheese Export Sales

Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) has accepted 6 requests for export assistance from Bongards and Darigold to sell 1.896 million pounds (860 metric tons) of Cheddar, Gouda and Monterey Jack cheese to customers in Asia, North Africa and the Middle East. The product will be delivered May through November 2013.

Year-to-date CWT has assisted member cooperatives in selling 52.877 million pounds of cheese, 51.727 million pounds of butter, 44,092 pounds of AMF, and 218,258 pounds of whole milk powder to 31 countries on six continents. These sales are the equivalent of 1.617 billion pounds of milk on a milkfat basis. That is more than USDA’s projected increase in milk marketings for all of 2013.

Assisting CWT members through the Export Assistance program positively impacts producer milk prices in the short-term by helping to maintain inventories of cheese and butter at desirable levels. In the long-term, CWT’s Export Assistance program helps member cooperatives gain and maintain market share, thus expanding the demand for U.S. dairy products and the farm milk that produces them.

CWT will pay export assistance to the bidders only when delivery of the product is verified by the submission of the required documentation.



USDA Funds Major Research Initiatives to Study the Affects of Weather and Climatic Variability on Beef and Dairy Cattle

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today awarded $19.5 million to support research, education and Extension activities associated with climate solutions in agriculture aimed at the impacts of climate variability and change on dairy and beef cattle. USDA remains focused on carrying out its mission, despite a time of significant budget uncertainty. Today's announcement is one part of the Department's efforts to strengthen the rural economy.

"We have seen the impact that variable climate patterns have had on production agriculture for the past several years. These projects will deliver the best tools available to accurately measure and respond to the effects of climate on beef and dairy production," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "Farmers and ranchers need sound, science-based information and solutions to help them make management decisions that will sustain their productivity and keep their operations economically viable."

The University of Wisconsin (UW) in Madison, Wisconsin, received $9.9 million over five years to study the environmental impact of various dairy production systems and develop best management practices for producers to implement at the farm level. The project's ultimate goal is to increase the resiliency of dairy production systems while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The team will also develop an agricultural education curriculum with an urban foods focus at Vincent High School in Milwaukee in an effort to educate future leaders and consumers about the contributions of the dairy industry to economic and environmental sustainability. Curricula at the high school and college levels will be developed related to mitigation and adaptation to climate change and agricultural sustainability.

The University of Wisconsin is partnering in the project with the University of Arkansas, Cornell University, the University of Michigan, North Carolina A&T University, Pennsylvania State University and the University of Washington, along with four USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) laboratories, the U.S. Department of Energy and the industry-sponsored Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy.

Oklahoma State University (OSU) in Stillwater, Oklahoma, received $9.6 million over five years to better understand vulnerability and resilience of Southern Great Plains beef in an environment of increased climate variability, dynamic land-use and fluctuating markets. The team's goal is to safeguard regional beef production while mitigating the environmental footprint of agriculture. The project also includes education and Extension components to train the next generation of producers and researchers in addressing the impact of climate on beef cattle. Using a community- and citizen-science approach, the project will train young students and citizens to use GPS-enabled digital cameras and smartphones and web data portals to participate in field data collection. The geospatial data will be integrated into a portal for community-based analysis and inventory and used to educate the general public on climate change related to range-based beef production.

The team is comprised of 32 scientists from OSU, Kansas State University, University of Oklahoma, Tarleton State University, the Samuel R. Noble Foundation, and two ARS laboratories.

These Coordinated Agricultural Projects (CAP) bring together teams of researchers that represent various geographic areas to support discovery, applications and promote communication leading to innovative, science-based solutions to critical and emerging national priorities and needs. This year's awards broaden NIFA's CAP climate change portfolio, which includes three projects awarded in 2010 focusing on loblolly pine in the South, corn production in the Midwest and wheat crops in the Northwest.

NIFA made the awards through its Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) funding opportunity. AFRI's Climate Variability and Change challenge area is focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing carbon sequestration in agricultural and forest production systems and preparing the nation's agriculture and forests to adapt to changing climates.

AFRI is NIFA's flagship competitive grant program and was established under the 2008 Farm Bill. AFRI supports work in six priority areas: 1) plant health and production and plant products; 2) animal health and production and animal products; 3) food safety, nutrition and health; 4) renewable energy, natural resources and environment; 5) agriculture systems and technology; and 6) agriculture economics and rural communities.



Ammonium Nitrate was Explosive in West (TX) Plant Blast

(AP) — A store of ammonium nitrate is what exploded April 17 at a Central Texas plant, killing 14 people, injuring hundreds and devastating an adjoining town.

The finding was expected, and officials had said they were focusing their investigation on the explosive chemical used in many fertilizers, said Rachel Moreno, spokeswoman for the Texas State Fire Marshal's Office. A spot where the ammonium nitrate was stored is now a 90-foot-wide crater, Moreno said Monday.

However, the ignition source for the explosive chemical remained undetermined Monday. Findings on the cause of the blast on the outskirts of the small town of West initially had been expected Friday. However, the investigation will take one to two extra weeks to complete, with dozens of investigators combing through plant wreckage and the adjoining wrecked neighborhood, Moreno said.

Also, federal emergency officials have begun offering shelter for West residents whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged. About 70 homes were damaged or destroyed.

A statement from the Federal Emergency Management Administration said the transitional sheltering assistance was requested by Texas state officials. It would allow those whose homes were left uninhabitable by the blast to stay for a limited time in a hotel or motel at government expense. Meals, telephone calls and other incidental charges are not covered, and applicants are responsible for any lodging costs above the authorized lodging costs, according to the statement. Eligible applicants are being notified.



Argentina to Offer Farmer Incentive

Argentina's government will offer farmers a financial incentive to produce wheat in a bid to stoke planting of the staple crop and reverse years of declining production.

Overseas wheat sales are currently taxed at 23% and exports are tightly controlled to ensure domestic supply and low prices at home. But the taxes and export limits have fueled a wholesale stampede away from the crop by farmers due to the low prices they get for the grain.

"We want to make producing wheat more profitable and we want to make the soil healthier," Argentina President Cristina Kirchner said.

The president offered vague details about how the plan will work. She said revenue from wheat export taxes will go to a fund, which will then be redistributed to wheat farmers who have paid the appropriate taxes. Farmers will be eligible to receive $30 per metric ton of wheat produced.

"The more they produce, the more they'll get," she said.

Last season, farmers harvested 9.8 million metric tons of wheat, according to the Buenos Aires Cereals Exchange. That is down from 13.2 million tons in 2011-12, and 15.8 million tons in 2010-11. Argentina has traditionally been a top global wheat exporter, with most shipments going to neighboring Brazil.

Farmers are currently gearing up to start planting of the 2013-14 winter wheat crop. Despite good weather conditions and recent showers, analysts expect another small crop.

The wheat area this season is seen rising 8.3% on the year to 3.9 million hectares, according to the exchange.

While up on the year, the wheat area is seen 7% below the average of the past five years and 20% below the average of the past 10 years, according to the exchange.

Farmers have shifted to growing other winter crops like barley, which don't face export taxes. Others simply skipped the winter season and planted soybeans in the spring.



Dow AgroSciences Receives U.S. EPA Registration for Sulfoxaflor

Dow AgroSciences LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE: DOW), announced today that U.S. regulatory authorities have approved the new insecticidal active ingredient, sulfoxaflor to be marketed in the U.S. as Transform® and Closer™. The U.S. registration, and the recent Canadian registration, are the result of a Global Joint Review which also includes Australia. Australian sulfoxaflor registration is expected by third quarter 2013. South Korea, Panama, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Guatemala have already registered sulfoxaflor and additional global registrations are expected in the near future.

Sulfoxaflor belongs to a novel chemical class called sulfoximines invented by Dow AgroSciences and offers extremely effective control of many important sap-feeding insect pests. It can be used in a large number of major crops, including cotton, soybean, citrus, pome/stone fruit, nuts, grapes, potatoes, vegetables and strawberries. Sulfoxaflor has unique attributes compared with other sap-feeding insecticides providing a significant new tool for growers for many years to come.

“Sulfoxaflor is an ideal addition to Integrated Pest Management programs. Its unique mode of action provides fast-acting control of harmful pests. Moreover, research data on sulfoxaflor continues to demonstrate lack of cross-resistance with other insecticides,” says Daniel R. Kittle, vice president, Research and Development, Dow AgroSciences. “This innovative new option fits conveniently into growers’ existing programs to help them protect yields in a wide variety of foods and fiber around the globe.”

In 2012 Dow AgroSciences had a successful South Korean launch of sulfoxaflor and received a U.S. Section 18 Emergency Use Label in cotton that led to positive market feedback.



Know Your Enemies: Scout Corn Fields for These Five Weeds in 2013

With more weeds becoming glyphosate-resistant or surviving glyphosate-only applications, corn growers continue to rely on residual herbicides to manage tough weeds and protect their yield. In addition to controlling weeds early in the season, growers should consider SureStart® herbicide, which attacks weeds at multiple sites of action for those that are becoming harder to control.

“We need to maximize the number of sites of action,” says Travis Legleiter, weed program science specialist at Purdue University. “We don’t have a lot of sites of action left to us, so we need to maximize what we do have available to us and rotate them as much as we can. Avoid applying any site of action more than two times in a growing season. By applying a site of action more than two times in a growing season, we’re putting pressure on those weeds to become resistant to it.”

Utilizing three non-glyphosate modes of action, SureStart controls more than 60 grasses and broadleaf weeds, including herbicide-resistant species such as marestail, common and giant ragweed, waterhemp and pigweed. This corn and soybean herbicide chart describes mode of action in greater detail, by herbicide class.

By eliminating weed pressure early, growers can protect corn during critical stages of development as well as optimizing yield potential. SureStart offers unmatched application flexibility for residual control of these weed threats and many others for up to six weeks.

Watch for these five high-anxiety weeds that could threaten your corn yields this season:

Lambsquarters
-    Trend: According to Weedscience.org, the lambsquarters population remains steady or is increasing in 20 states.
-    Germination timing: Summer annual; emerges in the spring; sets seed in late summer/fall and dies.
-    Found in: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
-    Percentage of control: 98% using 2.5 pt. SureStart preemergence followed by Durango® DMA® herbicide

Marestail
-    Trend: In 2012, 23.8 percent of growers reported the presence of glyphosate-resistant marestail on their farms, 8 percentage points more than in 2011.
-    Germination timing: Marestail is generally considered a winter annual weed. However, it can germinate eight to nine months out of the year. It may be shifting to more spring and summer germination as a result of cropping systems and herbicide use patterns.
-    Found in: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
-    Percentage of control: 93% using 2.5 pt. SureStart preemergence followed by Durango DMA

Palmer amaranth
-    Trend: In 2012, 13.3 percent of growers reported the presence of glyphosate-resistant Palmer amaranth on their farms, 4.6 percentage points more than in 2011.
-    Germination timing: Palmer amaranth has an extended emergence pattern, typically May to mid-July in the Southern United States. It has a rapid growth rate (up to 2½ inches per day) and high seed production, averaging 40,000 seeds per plant.
-    Found in: AR, AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, IL, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI, WV
-    Percentage of control: 99% using 2.5 pt. SureStart® preemergence followed by Durango DMA

Waterhemp
-    Trend: In 2012, 16.5 percent of growers reported the presence of glyphosate-resistant waterhemp on their farms, 6 percentage points more than in 2011.
-    Germination timing: Summer annual; waterhemp germination and emergence extends late into the growing season.
-    Found in: AL, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE,GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, VT, WA, WI, WV
-    Percentage of control: 97% using 2.5 pt. SureStart preemergence followed by Durango DMA

Velvetleaf
-    Trend: Velvetleaf has been hard to control with glyphosate alone and continues to show prevalence among row crops.
-    Germination timing: Summer annual. Emerges in the spring, sets seed in late summer/fall and dies.
-    Found in: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY
-    Percentage of control: 95% using­­­ 2.5 pt. SureStart preemergence followed by Durango DMA

For the latest herbicide-resistant weed information, visit WeedScience.org. To learn more about SureStart, visit www.SureStart.com or contact your local ag retailer.

NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending May 5, 2013, warm temperatures early in the week gave way to  cold, wet  conditions  at mid-week which  again  limited  fieldwork,  according  to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics  Service,  Nebraska  Field  Office.  Snow  was  recorded  in  many  counties  at  mid-week.   Moisture accumulations, which included rain, totaled an inch or more in many eastern areas but was again limited in western counties.  Temperatures were below normal for the fourth week in a row and averaged 4 to 8 degrees below normal across much  of Nebraska.  Corn  planting  progressed  slowly  and was  a week  and  one  half  behind  average.  Soil temperatures  as  of  Sunday  were  above  50  degrees  in  the  western  two  thirds  of  the  state  but  in  the  high  40’s elsewhere.  Pastures continue to show little growth with many producers lacking the forage supplies to feed much longer.  The first cutting of alfalfa will be short and  late, with one  less cutting possible  this year.  Fieldwork was limited with only 3.2 days considered suitable.  Statewide, topsoil moisture supplies rated 13 percent very short, 23 short, 60 adequate, and 4 surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 42 percent very short, 42 short, 16 adequate, and 0 surplus.  
 
Field Crops Report:
Corn planted was 14 percent, well behind last year’s 70 and 53 average.  Soybeans planted was 1 percent, behind last year’s 26 and 13 average.  Wheat  conditions  rated  16  percent  very  poor,  33  poor,  39  fair,  12  good,  and  0  excellent. Wheat  jointed  was  8 percent, well behind last year’s 84 and 3 weeks behind 46 average.  Oats planted were at 84 percent, behind last year’s 96 and 93 average.  Oats emerged were 38 percent, behind last year’s 79 and 65 average.  
 
Livestock, Pasture and Range Report:
Stock water supplies rated 6 percent very short, 15 short, 78 adequate, and 1 surplus.   Pasture and range condition rated 25 percent very poor, 45 poor, 26 fair, 4 good, and 0 excellent.  Hay and forage supplies rated 23 percent very short, 47 short, 30 adequate, and 0 surplus.   Cattle and calves condition rated 0 percent very poor, 2 poor, 26 fair, 65 good, and 7 excellent. Spring calving was 95 percent complete.  Calf losses this spring has been 6 percent below average, 89 average, and 5 above average.



Access the National publication for Crop Progress and Condition tables at: http://usda01.library.cornell.edu/usda/nass/CropProg//2010s/2013/CropProg-05-06-2013.txt.  

Access the High Plains Region Climate Center for Temperature and Precipitation Maps at: http://www.hprcc.unl.edu/maps/current/index.php?action=update_region&state=NE&region=HPRCC

Access the U.S. Drought Monitor at: http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/DM_state.htm?NE,HP



IOWA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION REPORT

Dry and warm weather in the first half of the week ending May 5, 2013 turned to cold  and  wet  weather  by  mid-week.    Temperatures  dropped  low  enough  for snowfall  to be  seen across much of  Iowa.   Records  for both May  snowfall and coldest daily high temperature were set in some areas.  There was an average of 2.3  days  suitable  for  fieldwork  during  the  week,  according  to  the  USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service.   Most  fieldwork was done early  in  the week  before  the  turn  in  weather.    Field  activities  included  application  of fertilizers and herbicides, tilling and planting.  
  
Topsoil moisture  levels  rated  1  percent  very  short,  3  percent  short,  59 percent adequate  and  37  percent  surplus.    The  precipitation  received  during  the week continued  to  improve  subsoil  moisture  levels.    Subsoil  moisture  levels  rated 4 percent  very  short,  24  percent  short  and  63 percent  adequate  and  9  percent surplus.  

Eight percent of Iowa’s corn acreage has been planted compared with 62 percent at this time last year and the five-year average of 56 percent.  Although farmers were  able  to  plant  some  corn  before  the  weather  turned  mid-week,  planting progress  is  the  latest  since  1995.    Some  farmers  delayed  planting  early  in  the week due to the forecasted snow and cold temperatures.  A series of dry days is needed  to permit planting  to resume.   Oat planting was 67 percent complete; at this  time  last  year  oat  planting  was  complete.    Twenty-three  percent  of  oat acreage  has  emerged,  well  behind  last  year’s  88  percent  and  the  five-year average of 62 percent.   

Pasture  and  range  condition  rated  10  percent  very  poor,  20  percent  poor, 39 percent  fair and 27 percent good and 4 percent excellent.   Enough moisture has been  received  to promote new growth  in pastures,  but cooler  than  average temperatures have limited the growth of grass.  



IOWA PRELIMINARY WEATHER SUMMARY
Provided by Harry Hillaker, State Climatologist, Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship

What a week for weather across Iowa.  The reporting period began with unusually warm weather on Monday (29th) and Tuesday (30th).  Monday’s highs were in the low 70’s northeast to the mid 80’s southwest and on Tuesday ranged from  the  upper  60’s  northwest  to  upper  80’s  east  central.    The  warmer  air brought a  few  thunderstorms  to extreme  southeast  Iowa on Sunday  (28th) night and  over  northern  areas  on Monday  (29th) morning  and  again Monday  night.  Both episodes of storms on Monday brought large hail to some areas with tennis ball  size  hail  reported  near  Dubuque Monday  evening.    A  cold  front  slowly moved  into  the  state  from  the  northwest  on Tuesday  (30th)  and  finally  pushed into  Illinois  Wednesday  night.    High  temperatures  reached  the  mid  80’s  on Wednesday  ahead  of  the  front while  snow was  falling  in northwest  Iowa with temperatures  only  in  the  low  30’s.    Snow  began  in  the  far  northwest  early Wednesday morning with moderate to heavy snow falling Wednesday night over west  central  and  north  central  Iowa.    The  snow  slowly  edged  further  east  on Thursday  with  the  heaviest  snow  falling  from  south  central  into  north  central Iowa on Thursday night and Friday morning.  Finally, the storm system began to move back westward with snow persisting over  far western  Iowa  into Saturday afternoon (but with no additional accumulation).   Meanwhile, eastern  Iowa saw widespread  moderate  to  heavy  rainfall.    Precipitation  intensity  generally decreased starting Friday afternoon but there were a few areas of heavier rainfall associated with thunderstorms over east central and northeast Iowa on Friday and Saturday.   Warmer and drier air  slowly worked  there way westward across  the state  late  in  the weekend with highs on Sunday  (5th) varying  from  the  low 50’s northwest  to mid 70’s east central.   The week’s snow fall smashed all previous May  snowfall  records  in  Iowa.    Storm  total  snowfall  reached  a May  record 13 inches at Osage while the statewide average snowfall of 3.4 inches was nearly triple  the previous highest May average  set  in 1947  (1.2  inches).   Precipitation totals varied  from 0.89  inches  at Estherville  to 4.52  inches  at  Iowa City.   The statewide  average  precipitation was  2.22  inches while  normal  for  the  week  is 0.98  inches.    This  was  the  third  week  of  the  past  four  with  unusually  heavy precipitation.   Temperature  extremes over  the past  reporting week varied  from 26  degrees  at Sibley  on Friday  to  89  degrees  at Cedar Rapids,  Iowa City  and Stanley  on  Tuesday.    Temperatures  for  the  week  as  a  whole  averaged  from 8 degrees below normal over  the northwest  to 3 degrees above normal over  the far east with a statewide average of 3.7 degrees below normal.



Warmer, Drier Conditions Forecast for This Week
Al Dutcher, UNL State Climatologist

What a cruel joke Mother Nature can play on us. Another aggressive upper air trough moved through the central Plains this week and brought conditions typical of late March. Rain, thunderstorms, freezing rain, sleet, and heavy snow were reported across the state. The most significant snowfall accumulations were reported across the southern Panhandle and northeast Nebraska with totals approaching 6 inches. Snowfall amounts of 1-3 inches were common across much of central and eastern Nebraska.

According to the Nebraska office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service only 3% of the corn acreage had been planted by April 28, compared with 40% on this date last year and the five-year average of 26%. Although planters were rolling April 29-30, many sat idle because of the impending rain/snow and forecasts for temperatures dropping to the upper 20s to upper 30s.

Planting activity will likely be delayed for at least five days across eastern Nebraska where liquid equivalent precipitation totals ranged from 1 to 3 inches. Precipitation totals of 0.25 inches to 1 inch were common across western Nebraska, with the lightest totals reported across the northern Panhandle and the southwest corner of the state.

The upper air trough responsible for this late snow has shifted southeast of the state and formed a cutoff low. This low will slowly migrate toward the lower Ohio River valley this weekend as the western U.S. upper air ridge builds eastward. Clouds and scattered showers are possible across the eastern third of Nebraska through Sunday, while western Nebraska should remain dry.

Temperatures are expected to slowly moderate through the middle of this week. Eastern Nebraska should be stuck in the 50s due to extensive cloud cover before warming into the 70s by Tuesday.  If the models are correct, there could be some 80°F highs across western Nebraska by the end of next week.

Chances for precipitation are relatively low for most of this week. Models indicate that isolated showers or thunderstorms could develop during the afternoons from Wednesday through Saturday. The best opportunity for widespread precipitation is projected for Thursday afternoon through Saturday evening.

Weather models are having a difficult time resolving whether the central plains will see an aggressive precipitation pattern or remain dry May 12-18. The latest models are trending wetter, but confidence is low. It may be a challenge to get the corn crop planted by month’s end if the wetter forecast verifies.

To add more fuel to the fire, the Climate Prediction Center has just issued their updated 30-day forecast.  Much of the central third of the United States is projected to experience below normal temperatures during May. In addition, an area of above normal moisture is projected for eastern Nebraska and the entire state of Iowa.



Johanns Seeks Explanation from EPA on Repeated Release of Ag Producers’  Private Information

U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.) released the following statement regarding the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) multiple disclosures to anti-ag activist organizations of thousands of records including the personal information of ag producers:

“EPA’s ongoing assault on America’s ag producers is nothing short of alarming,” Senator Johanns said. “Its disregard for the privacy of farmers and ranchers in Nebraska and across the country is, at best, woeful negligence, and at worst, a flagrant effort to aid organizations seeking to radically transform American agriculture, with no regard for what it takes to feed the world.

“EPA must now explain how it will ensure the already-released private information is not abused. Will the Agency request sworn statements from the recipients of the private information? Those affected have a right to a better answer from EPA.”

Sen. Johanns requested an explanation from Acting EPA Administrator Bob Perciasepe regarding the release of private information protected by federal law, and how the Agency plans to ensure the disclosed private information will not be used by outside organizations.

Background:
On February 10, 2013, EPA released to activist groups Earth Justice, the Pew Charitable Trust and the Natural Resources Defense Council information on 80,000 livestock operations across the United States, including 3,500 in Nebraska following Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. The information EPA provided included names, home addresses, personal telephone numbers and employee information—data that should have been redacted.

On April 4, 2013, EPA acknowledged some of the information it disclosed should have been exempt under federal law.  It sent an amended release of the same information with redactions. However, EPA failed to remove all private information, including data on a number of operations in Nebraska.  On April 30, 2013, EPA sent a second amended release, which included more redactions of records from Nebraska and Montana.

In letters accompanying the data, EPA requested that all previous iterations of the information related to the FOIA requests be returned and/or destroyed. The Agency has failed to take meaningful steps to prevent the abuse of ag producers’ private information already released.

Below are the questions Sen. Johanns submitted to EPA Acting Director Perciasepe regarding the release of private information:

1. In early February, your agency released personal information on 80,000 livestock operations across the United States.  In Nebraska, personal information on over 3,500 operations was released. 
  a. Did EPA conduct an independent evaluation of the data states submitted to EPA and redact any such personal information the Privacy Act, Freedom of Information Act, or EPA’s own policies required it to before the Agency made its first release of the data?
  b. I am told the original release contained no redactions based on FOIA Exemptions or the Privacy Act.  Is this accurate?
  c. EPA has now reportedly agreed that in the case of data from 10 states EPA should have redacted information.  Is this an accurate rendering?
  d. Does EPA believe that the release of unredacted data in early February is consistent with applicable FOIA and Privacy Act law?  

2. With respect to the redactions that EPA now acknowledges should have occurred before any FOIA release occurred, has EPA asked for a list of entities and individuals who received (or viewed) the unredacted data?
  a. For those individuals and entities, has EPA asked for affidavits certifying that those individuals and entities have not kept copies or otherwise released or inappropriately recorded the data that was subsequently redacted?

3. Is it EPA's goal to establish and publish a national livestock database to be published on EPA's website?
  a. Does the Agency believe that publishing a national livestock database will make our food supply less secure? 



Curtis Ag College to Celebrate Centennial in August, 2013

A “Century of Ag Education” will be celebrated in Curtis on August 9-11, 2013, at the University of Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) with festivities for alumni, students, staff and agricultural friends from throughout the Midwest, said NCTA Interim Dean Scott Mickelsen.

“We are looking forward to seeing many alumni and friends join us in August, returning to the Curtis institution where they spent their high school years, were staff or students at the college, or both,” Dr. Mickelsen said.

Announcements were mailed to alumni this week who graduated from one of the four schools (two high schools, then two colleges):  NAS – Nebraska Agriculture School, UNSA – University of Nebraska School of Agriculture, UNSTA- University of Nebraska School of Technical Agriculture, and now NCTA.

The ag campus at the northeastern edge of Curtis will be open for campus and farm plot tours, competitive events, a chuckwagon dinner, and social activities beginning Friday evening, August 9th and concluding Sunday morning.   Hotel space is limited, so guests can also stay at Aggie West dormitory on campus.

“The Centennial celebration will include campus tours featuring the new Education Center and additions to the state-of-the art veterinary teaching hospital, cowboy poetry entertainment and dance, and some fun competitions for all ages on Saturday,” Mickelsen added.

Registration forms and schedule are available at www.NCTA.unl.edu, or e-mail to chauptman4@unl.edu, or telephone the main campus number at (308) 367-5200.

The 330-student, 2-year technical college graduated 84 students on Thursday, May 2nd, said Mickelsen.  He has served as the school’s associate dean since May, 2011 and also holds interim dean duties until Dr. Ron Rosati of Missouri joins the University system on July 1st.  Former Dean Weldon Sleight retired in December.

Timeline
When Nebraska’s Legislature enacted the educational plan in 1911, the school was to be a high school as a terminal technical school for men and women interested in agriculture or home economics. Students had to be at least 14 years old and eighth-grade graduates when they started classes on September 9, 1913.

All facets of high school programs were taught, including what was then referred to as “normal training” for teachers.  Peak enrollment of 415 students came in 1946, also when the name changed to University of Nebraska School of Agriculture (UNSA).

From 1965-1968, UNSA transitioned from a high school to a post-secondary, agricultural technical school, again with another name change to the University of Nebraska School of Technical Agriculture (UNSTA).

Through a tumultuous period of state funding cuts and University recommendations to close the school, enrollments ceased and plans were underway to sell the campus.  However, in 1987, after public pressure swayed the governor and elected officials, Nebraska’s Legislature restored funding in April, 1988.  Business and management technology programs were added to the curriculum.

In February, 1994, the University of Nebraska formally adopted UNSTA as the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis (NCTA).  Dr. Weldon Sleight was Dean for six years and led the campus through curriculum and facility additions such as the Nebraska Agriculture Industry Education Center, a new residence hall, a biomass heating project using cedar chips, and an extensive addition to the Veterinary Technology Teaching Complex which includes the Dr. Walter Long Veterinary Technology Teaching Clinic.

Primary NCTA programs are:  veterinary technology, animal science, agronomy, horticulture, agribusiness, agricultural education and agricultural equipment (welding, diesel mechanics, and soon adding irrigation technology).

Also, a new NCTA program, “Comparative Medicine,” is in final planning stages. The 2-year veterinary technology training program will teach students animal care with small and large animals and how animal health relates to human health and technology. Classes will be taught at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) in Omaha by NCTA’s Comparative Medicine instructor and veterinarian, Dr. Glenn Jackson.



Transforming Scientific Knowledge into Ag Practices, Policy is Essential

           Much of the scientific and technical knowledge needed to address the world's burgeoning food needs already exists. The challenge now is to get it into small farmers' hands in a way they can use it, and to convince governments to change policies to make it more feasible for them to do so.

            That's one of the themes emerging as the fifth annual global Water for Food Conference opened at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel Monday (May 6). The fifth annual conference is hosted by the Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Institute at the University of Nebraska and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

            Experts opened the conference Monday morning in a panel discussion that focused on their efforts to translate research into action in Asia, Central America and Sub-Saharan Africa, areas where increasing food production is essential to feeding a world population expected to reach 9 billion by 2050. Jeff Raikes, CEO of the Gates foundation and a native Nebraskan, said "smallholder farmers" trying to scratch out a living on 5 to 10 acres represent "a lot of the food production" in the world.

            "Helping these farming families increase production in a sustainable way and sell more crops is the most effective way" to deal with the looming challenge, said Raikes, who moderated the opening panel discussion. Raikes said "participatory research" needs to reflect the farmers' concerns rather than simply presenting scientific findings and expecting farmers to adopt recommendations.

            Paul Hicks, a water resources specialist with Catholic Relief Services' Global Water Imitative, said, "We need to start where the farmer is and really understand the context they're working in." His organization has worked to bridge the gap between research institutions and these farmers.

            Aditi Mukherji, a water and air leader with the Nepal-based International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development, said scientists traditionally have been eager to share their expertise rather than first finding out what farmers really need.

            In that light, Hicks said, it's key that scientists working with farmers accomplish some "early recognizable results," however modest.

            "Most of the solutions that are needed are known …," Hicks said, "but there hasn't been consensus" among farmers or policymakers on how to implement them.

            His organization has brought together policymakers, scientists and development specialists to assess the programs implemented by governments and NGOs over the last 15 years to see what's worked and what hasn't, with an eye toward improving future policies.

            Mukherji said her organization's experience is encouraging. In her native West Bengal, research findings have influenced government changes in groundwater policy aimed at improving food production. Now, she said, she and others are focused on making sure those policy changes lead to changes in farmers' behavior.

            Benedito Braga, president of the World Water Council, also emphasized a need for improved policies. He noted a "silent revolution" has been underway in increased use of groundwater for irrigation, but it's happened without regulation, threatening long-term water security in some regions.

            Braga warned that riots in 37 countries in 2007-08 sparked by food shortages and high prices could "be harbingers of a crisis to come."

            Improved crop breeding is essential too, said Sally Mackenzie, the Ralph and Alice Raikes Chair of Plant Sciences at University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

            Mackenzie's team is studying the previously untapped field of epigenetic modification of crops to make them more productive and less susceptible to hostile environments. Her work leaves the genes themselves unchanged but focuses on how genes express themselves with an eye toward ultimately manipulating those expressions to improve crops.

            Illustrating the significance of epigenetics, she noted that humans and chimps share 98 percent of their genetic information.

            "What we've learned from that, other than humility, is that what really differentiates us is not our genes but how we express them," Mackenzie said.

            Findings so far, with both nonfood and food crops, are encouraging in producing plants with improved biomass, vigor, stress resistance and seed production – all without changing their genetic structure, she said.

            "We have not been capturing all the breeding potential that we can" without an understanding of epigenetics, Mackenzie said.

            Mackenzie is part of the National Plant Science Initiative that will send a report soon to the president and Congress that offers advice on how best to meet the food challenges ahead.

            The conference, whose theme is "Too Hot, Too Wet, Too Dry: Building Resilient Agroecosystems," is expected to draw nearly 500 experts from around the world working to overcome the urgent challenge of growing more food with less water. It is sponsored by Monsanto.

            Additional information about the 2013 Water for Food Conference is online at: http://waterforfood.nebraska.edu/wff2013. The conference continues through Wednesday.



Wild Weather Causing Record Planting Delays

Unusually-cold spring weather is causing new concerns for Iowa's delayed planting season; the 2012 drought depleted the nation's reserves making this year's crop a crucial one for global market exports, biofuel production and livestock farmers, according to the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF).

"The nation's farmers, biofuels makers and grain exporters will all be affected if another crop falls short of expectation," says IFBF economist Dave Miller. "But, if the weather turns around and our record corn and soybean acres see record yields, that would likely swamp grain markets and drive down prices for crop farmers; we're in an unusually crucial situation this year."

Miller added, "Are we standing on the edge of a cliff? With another short crop, we can't adjust exports down much further...therefore, where would the next adjustment come from? We saw the first contraction in biofuels production in seven years, because of last year's drought. Exports have also been a point of adjustment in past major crop shortfalls; all these things send ripple effects through our entire industry and that means consumers could feel it, too."

Helping Iowa farmers manage market risks like these and discussing farm policy challenges will be a key theme in the 2013 IFBF Economic Summit "Grain, Gridlock and Globalization: Meeting the Economic Challenges in Today's Agriculture," which will be held July 22 and 23 in Ames. The two-day summit brings nationally-known experts on crop and livestock market trends, exports and commodity price experts to the Iowa State Center Scheman Building on the Iowa State University campus.

"Clearly, there are many unpredictable factors out there impacting farmers; most delayed planting seasons are regional in nature; however this year, because of wild weather, the entire grain producing region is impacted. But we also have record land prices, a crop that is vastly more expensive to produce, an uncertain political climate with no new Farm Bill and emerging trade challenges. All affect our ability to grow food, fiber and fuel," says IFBF President Craig Hill.

National experts ranging from economists Allen Featherstone of Kansas State University, Michael Boehlje from Purdue, export and policy analyst Ross Korves and ag meteorologist Elwynn Taylor are among many nationally-recognized monetary, policy, trade and economic experts tapped for the July IFBF Economic Summit.

For a complete listing of the panelists and schedule, click here: www.iowafarmbureau.com.

The price of the two-day summit is $50 for Iowa Farm Bureau members and $150 for non-members. Information about the summit, lodging and online registration forms can be found at www.iowafarmbureau.com.



17th Edition of Farm Estate and Business Planning Available

This 471-page soft cover book is an excellent guide for farmers and ranchers who want to make the most of the state and federal income and estate tax laws to assure the least expensive and most efficient transfer of their estates to their children and heirs. This book contains detailed advice on assuring worry-free retirement years, using wills, trusts, insurance and outside investments as estate planning tools, ways to save on estate settlement costs, and an approach to setting up a plan that will eliminate arguments and friction in the family.

"This edition is rather special," says Harl, "in light of the tax legislation passed in December 2012."

The book contains extensive coverage of that landmark legislation and updates the 26 chapters with recent developments in farm and ranch estate planning and farm and ranch business planning since the 16th edition was published in 2011. The book is written in easy-to-read language and is designed for use by farm and ranch families.

The book also includes discussion of employment taxes, formation and advantages of use of business entities, federal farm payments, state laws on corporate ownership of farm land, federal gift tax law, annuities, installment obligations, charitable deductions, all with an eye to the least expensive and most efficient transfer of the farm to heirs.

Nearly 175,000 copies of the book, which traces its history back to the first edition in 1973, are in circulation.

Harl, who is retired from the Iowa State University faculty after 40-years service, holds a law degree from the University of Iowa and a bachelor's degree and Ph.D. in economics from Iowa State. He is the author of 29 books and more than 450 publications in legal and economic journals and bulletins as well as more than 1,000 in farm and financial publications. Dr. Harl has made more than 3300 presentations in 43 states and 17 foreign countries and has received more than 30 major awards during his long career at Iowa State.

The 17th Edition is available in print for $35.00 (shipping and tax included) and PDF file for $25.00 (shipping and tax included) for reading, searching and printing with a computer or tablet. The book and PDF file may be ordered at www.agrilawpress.com.

Orders are also accepted by e-mailing Robert@agrilawpress.com or by calling 360-200-5666. The address of the Agricultural Law Press is 127 Young Rd., Kelso, WA 98626.



Quality Assurance sessions scheduled for Iowa pork producers

The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) is partnering with the Iowa Pork Industry Center and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach to offer free Pork Quality Assurance Plus® (PQA Plus®) and Transport Quality Assurance® (TQA®) programs for Iowa pork producers.

Special quality assurance training sessions will be hosted at the 2013 World Pork Expo on Wednesday, June 5, and Thursday, June 6. All sessions will be hosted in room A-2 of the Varied Industries Building on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Interested individuals should pre-register by contacting IPPA at (515) 225-7675 or lclemenson@iowapork.org. Session details are as follows:

Wednesday, June 5
PQA Plus 9:15 a.m. – Noon
TQA 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Thursday, June 6
PQA Plus – 9:15 a.m. – Noon.
Additionally, Pork Quality Assurance Plus (PQA Plus) and Transport Quality Assurance (TQA) training sessions will be offered in each of the eight IPPA districts throughout the summer. 

District 1
Wednesday, July 17
Northwest Iowa Community College
Building A, Room 116/119
Sheldon

District 2
Tuesday, August 20
Humboldt County Extension office
727 Sumner Ave.
Humboldt

District 3
Tuesday, August 27
Borlaug Learning Center
3327 290th St.
Nashua

District 4
Thursday, August 8
Delaware County Extension Office
1417 North Franklin St.
Manchester

District 5
Thursday, June 20
Cass County Community Center
805 West 10th St.
Atlantic

District 6
Tuesday, June 25
Guthrie County Extension Office
212 State St.
Guthrie Center

District 7
Thursday, August 1
Marion County Extension Office
210 North Iowa St.
Knoxville

District 8
Thursday, August 1
Johnson County Extension office
3109 Old Hwy. 218 S.
Iowa City

All district locations offer TQA from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and PQA Plus from 3:15 p.m. to 6 p.m. All sessions are sponsored by IPPA and the Pork Checkoff. Producers are encouraged to pre-register to allow adequate space and materials. To pre-register or for more information, contact IPPA at (515) 225-7675 or email lclemenson@iowapork.org.

PQA Plus and TQA are part of the industry-aligned We Care responsible pork initiative, which establishes ethical principles for pork producers to produce safe food, protect and promote animal well-being, protect public health, safeguard natural resources, provide a safe work environment and contribute to a better quality of life in their communities.

“Pork producers continue to demonstrate their commitment to their animals and customers through their participation in quality assurance training and the We Care responsible pork initiative,” said IPPA President Greg Lear. “We take these commitments very seriously as we focus on continuous improvement to deliver the safest food in the world.” 



March Beef Export Results Mixed; Pork Exports Trend Lower

March exports of U.S. beef were down in volume from a year ago but edged slightly higher in value, while pork exports slumped on lower results in several mainstay markets. According to statistics released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), March beef export volume of 83,612 metric tons (mt) was down 7 percent from a year ago but export value ($440.7 million) was slightly higher. Beef exports finished the first quarter 4 percent lower in volume (256,587 mt) but 5 percent ahead of last year’s record pace in value ($1.3 billion).

March pork exports declined 18 percent from a year ago in both volume (163,004 mt) and value ($469.5 million), hampered by a beta agonist-related market closure in Russia, larger domestic supplies in China and South Korea and weakened demand in top markets Japan and Mexico. For the first quarter, pork exports fell 12 percent below last year’s record pace in volume (528,195 mt) and 11 percent in value ($1.49 billion).

“We are definitely facing a challenging environment in several of our leading markets,” said USMEF President and CEO Philip Seng. “Some of these trends are anticipated, such as the lower demand for exports where domestic production is up and inventories are plentiful. But the trade impasse with Russia is very frustrating because we have lost access to a market where demand for our product is extremely strong. In other destinations we have seen the overall demand for high-quality proteins become sluggish, and USMEF is very focused on reversing this trend.”

March beef exports equated to 9 percent of U.S. muscle cut production and 12 percent when adding variety meat – ratios consistent with a year ago. Export value equated to $222.20 per head of fed slaughter, up from 9 percent in March 2012. First quarter export value was $221, also an increase of 9 percent.

Pork exports accounted for 20 percent of muscle cut production in March and 23.4 percent including variety meat. This is down from 24 percent and 27.8 percent, respectively, in March 2012. March export value equated to $50.38 per head, down from $59.92 in March 2012. First-quarter export value averaged $53.38 per head, down 10 percent from a year ago.

Expanded access boosts beef exports to Japan, Hong Kong
Beef exports to Japan received an excellent bounce from aggressive promotional campaigns designed to capitalize on the recently expanded market access. March volume (18,565 mt) was nearly 80 percent higher than a year ago and value was up 62 percent to $114.2 million. This pushed first-quarter exports to Japan 30 percent higher in both volume (38,483 mt) and value ($252.1 million).

Japan ranks second in beef export value to Canada, where U.S. exports also posted an outstanding first quarter. Export volume to Canada increased 20 percent to 44,305 mt while value was up 32 percent to $284.2 million. This made Canada the leading volume and value destination for U.S. beef.

Beef exports to Hong Kong more than doubled in volume in the first quarter to 22,217 mt, while value increased 93 percent to 123.4 million. Market access was also expanded in Hong Kong in late February, when the market began accepting bone-in cuts from U.S. cattle less than 30 months of age and boneless cuts from cattle of all ages.

Another bright spot for the U.S. beef industry has been the steady recovery of exports to Taiwan, which slumped in late 2011 and much of 2012 due to controversy over Taiwan’s beta agonist policy. With more workable regulations now in place, exports to Taiwan posted their best-ever first-quarter performance with volume increasing 56 percent to 8,669 mt and value up 88 percent to $66.1 million.

Beef exports to the Middle East also recorded the best first quarter ever in terms of volume, increasing 10 percent to 39,018 mt. Export value ($75.7 million) slipped 4 percent due in part to the continued lack of access to Saudi Arabia, which closed to U.S. beef following the April 2012 BSE case.

As mentioned previously, red meat trade with Russia has been effectively shut down since early February. First quarter beef exports were down 87 percent in volume (1,858 mt) and 96 percent in value ($2.3 million). Exports to former No. 1 market Mexico continue to struggle, with first-quarter results down 27 percent in volume (40,668 mt) and 29 percent in value ($177.1 million). Mexico now ranks second in export volume to Canada and third in value behind Canada and Japan.

Slowdown in key markets hampers pork exports
Coming off a record year in which pork exports to Japan reached nearly $2 billion and export value to Mexico topped $1.1 billion, demand in both markets has slowed in 2013. Along with the shutdown of the Russian market – ranked No. 6 in export value last year at $281.7 million – this hindered U.S. pork’s global performance in the first quarter despite gains in smaller, emerging markets.

Compared to the first quarter of 2012, pork exports to Japan fell 12 percent in volume (108,313 mt) and 9 percent in value ($482.5 million), partially as a result of the weaker yen. Exports to Mexico declined 15 percent in volume (137,506 mt) and 16 percent in value ($252.8 million).

Exports to Russia were down 62 percent in both volume (5,646 mt) and value ($17.5 million). Larger exports to neighboring countries, especially Ukraine, helped the overall performance in the Greater Russia region but exports were still down 41 percent in volume (9,221 mt) and 44 percent in value ($27.1 million).

Large domestic inventories impacted pork exports to China/Hong Kong (104,109 mt, -10 percent, valued at $219.5 million, -7 percent) and South Korea (34,841 mt, -35 percent, valued at $96.1 million, -38 percent). China’s domestic pork prices recently dropped to the lowest level in more than two years despite a stockpiling program aimed at stabilizing the market. A voluntary herd-culling program initiated by the Korean government in an effort to boost domestic prices has also yielded disappointing results, creating a difficult environment for imported pork from all sources. According to the Global Trade Atlas, Korea’s total pork imports fell 27 percent in volume and 35 percent in value in the first quarter. Despite the decline in imports from the United States, U.S. market share has increased in 2013.

Pork exports to several Western Hemisphere markets posted positive first-quarter results. Examples include:
-    Exports to Canada increased 4 percent in volume to 58,162 mt and 3 percent in value to $205.3 million.
-    Bolstered by the recently implemented free trade agreement, exports to Colombia jumped 57 percent in volume to 5,325 mt and 45 percent in value to $13.7 million. It was the leading volume market in the Central-South America region, where exports increased 16 percent in volume (23,843 mt) and 12 percent in value ($59.9 million). Chile was the region’s leading value market at $14.1 million (+15 percent).
-    Exports to the Dominican Republic increased 9 percent in volume to 3,795 mt and 16 percent in value to $9 million.

Asia’s first-quarter bright spot was the ASEAN region, where exports increased 37 percent in volume to 14,408 mt and 29 percent in value to $35.5 million. This was driven in large part by outstanding performance in the Philippines, where export volume increased 57 percent to 11,739 mt, valued at $28.1 million (+44 percent).

U.S. lamb exports bolstered by strong demand for variety meat
First-quarter lamb exports posted a 16 percent gain in value ($7.4 million) despite a 5 percent decline in volume (3,132 mt). Exports to leading market Mexico declined slightly in volume (2,364 mt) but increased 27 percent in value to $4.1 million. Global exports of lamb variety meat, a key contributor to carcass value, increased 19 percent in volume (2,161 mt) and 43 percent in value ($2.9 million)



USFRA Appoints New Vice President of Development

The U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance® (USFRA®) announces public relations, agribusiness and food industries veteran, Randy Krotz, as its new vice president of development. Krotz will lead initiatives which deal directly with industry partner relations, ensuring that USFRA will have the necessary short- and long-term resources to communicate and engage consumers, influencers and opinion leaders on a range of key crop and livestock production topics.

“As a passionate advocate for farming and ranching, I am eager to provide strategic counsel to USFRA’s industry partnership efforts,” said Krotz. “I look forward to working with the USFRA Board, its CEO Advisory Council and USFRA senior staff as we continue to grow this long-term movement.” 

Krotz brings extensive experience in creating stakeholder relationships that align with businesses’ objectives. This experience includes expertise in public relations, marketing, branding, online marketing, advocacy management and communications. He has worked for and/or represented many well-known food and agribusiness companies and associations including Agrium, FMC Corporation, Syngenta, the National Corn Growers Association, BASF, The Grocery Manufacturers Association, DuPont Pioneer, and Monsanto. Krotz is a graduate of Kansas State University, and continues an active role in the diversified family farm in North Central Kansas, on which he was raised.



USGC Vice Chairman Testifies on Ag Trade with China

Stressing the U.S. Grains Council's more than 30 years of work in China and the emergence of a new major market for U.S. feed grains, USGC Vice Chairman Julius Schaaf testified last week before the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission in Ames, Iowa, on issues related to U.S. feed grains and DDGS (distiller's dried grains with solubles) exports to China.

"I was on the fourth panel of the day," Schaaf noted, "so the Commission had already heard an earful before our turn came. But the questioning was still very active and pointed. They seemed surprised by [the Council's] work in China on animal waste management, and they were especially interested in why China would choose to import feed grains rather than finished meat products."

As did other witnesses, Schaaf pointed not only to the great potential of the Chinese market for agricultural trade, but also to the complexity and uncertainty of prediction. China is an agricultural powerhouse, the world's leading producer of wheat, vegetables, pork, fish, rice and other products, and the second leading producer of corn. It is committed to increasing its own production, and its import demand will depend significantly on its own policy decisions about which sectors to prioritize.

"We can't control their decisions," said Schaaf, "so I emphasized that a key goal for [the Council] was increasing China's confidence level in the international trading system. It's all about food security. Increasing production around the world, especially in South America, means the opportunity to diversify supply, and over time that is likely to increase China's readiness to rely on markets."

Created in 2000 by the U.S. Congress, the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission reports annually to Congress on the national security implications of the economic relationship between the United States and China. This report is based on an active series of hearings and staff investigations. The hearing last week was focused on agricultural policy and U.S. market access issues in China. A dozen witnesses representing different U.S. agricultural sectors, outside analysts, and government participated.



Taiwan Remains a Reliable US Grain Customer

Echoing sentiments expressed last fall at the U.S. Grains Council's Export Exchange 2012, the Taiwanese feed industry reaffirmed their preference for U.S. corn during meetings held in Taiwan late last month. Kimberly Karst, USGC director of global programs, traveled to the country as part of the Council's "Year of Trade Servicing," to meet with long-time partners and colleagues in the feed and livestock industry.

While U.S. market share in Taiwan has dropped significantly due to high prices over the past few marketing years, the overall demand for feed grains in Taiwan has remained steady. "The United States still has a very loyal partner and customer in Taiwan," said Karst. "The Taiwanese swine industry, which consumes 43 percent of all feed production, continues to express a preference for U.S. corn. But the price has to be competitive."

Importers expressed their appreciation for the Council's long dedication to developing Taiwan's animal industries through technical programs and helping local livestock farms modernize and increase their efficiency. The Council was also praised for its trade servicing programs, which have demonstrated the commitment from the U.S. corn industry, and its transparency, high quality of information and reliability to Taiwan.

Over the last 40 years, the Council has played an integral role in building and sustaining close ties between the United States and Taiwan. Through this relationship, Taiwan has remained one of the most stable markets for U.S. agriculture. As U.S. farmers begin planting, Taiwan anxiously awaits to see this year's corn harvest.



Dairy Producers Struggling Due to MILC Payment Delay

In agriculture, spring traditionally brings the influx of a lot of operational bills. But for dairymen, it’s hitting unusually hard this year as their land rents, and seed and fertilizer bills stack up and — a percentage of their revenue is being delayed because of government budget sequestration.

“The Milk Income Loss (MILC) payments have been delayed during a time when a lot of money needs to be paid out by farmers,” said National Farmers Legislative Coordinator Gene Paul.

“Dairy farmers have been affected since the first part of the year,” said Robert Froelich, a dairy farmer from Sullivan, Wis. There have been no payments since early this year; they owe us for Oct. 2012, and the first four months of this year. Producers are trying to buy feed and hay right now, and without the MILC payments, its putting real pressure on them. “It’s time to get the policy changed, and pay dairymen what they are owed,” Froelich said.

MILC payments are triggered when the Boston Class 1 milk price falls below $16.94 per hundredweight, after adjustment for the cost of dairy feed rations. The MILC payment for February is forecasted at 52 cents, March, 76 cents; April, 67 cents; May, 37 cents, all per hundredweight.

“We urge farmers to call their congressional representatives, as well as Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack, and ask them to speed these payments to producers,” said Paul.



USDA Announces Final Call for 2012 Census of Agriculture

With the window to respond to the 2012 Census of Agriculture officially closing on May 31, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is urging farmers and ranchers not to miss this opportunity to be counted and help determine the future of farming in America. USDA has already received more than 2 million completed Census forms.

"Our nation needs your help to ensure that decisions about U.S. agriculture accurately represent you, your communities, and your industry," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "For every 158 people in America there is one farm. I urge you to take action today and respond to the Census – your country is counting on the information to help ensure a continued supply of food, fiber and fuel for generations to come."

The Census of Agriculture, conducted only once every five years, is the only source of consistent and comprehensive agricultural data for every state and county in the nation. It looks at farms, value of land, market value of agricultural production, farm practices, expenditures, and other factors that affect the way farmers and ranchers do business. The information is used by agribusinesses, town planners, local governments, and policy makers, as well as farmers, ranchers, growers and others to shape farm programs, boost rural services and grow the future of farming.

"Agriculture in America is an industry built on tradition, honor and pride," said Vilsack. "We have heard this from the farmers and ranchers who completed their Census of Agriculture form. It's not too late for those who have not yet responded to join the generations of producers who participated in the Agriculture Census since it was first conducted in 1840. Only you can continue to provide the facts straight from the farm."

The 2012 Census will provide a complete picture of agriculture that will be used to shape the future of agriculture, rural America, and the lives of those USDA serves for years to come. The deadline to respond to the Census of Agriculture is only a few weeks away on May 31. USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) may contact producers by phone or in person to collect Census information since time is running out.

Farmers and ranchers can also return their forms by mail or online by visiting a secure website, www.agcensus.usda.gov. Federal law requires a response from everyone who receives the Census form and requires NASS to keep all individual information confidential.

For more information about the Census, including helpful tips on completing your Census form, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov or call 1-888-4AG-STAT (1-888-424-7828). The Census of Agriculture is your voice, your future, your responsibility.



Tyson Foods 2nd-Quarter Net Falls 43% on Higher Costs

Tyson Foods Inc.'s (TSN) fiscal second-quarter earnings fell 43% as higher beef and chicken prices weren't enough to offset the meat processor's increased costs.  The company also lowered its full-year sales estimate to about $34.5 billion from its November forecast of $35 billion.

"Our second quarter typically is our most challenging, and this quarter was no exception," said President and Chief Executive Donnie Smith. "However, our business is structured to withstand adverse conditions, and we worked through the issues while positioning ourselves for what we believe will be a strong performance in the second half of the year.

Tyson, the biggest U.S. chicken producer, has generally seen improved revenue in recent years as higher poultry prices helped mitigate weaker demand for beef and pork products. But rising feed costs and increasingly frugal shoppers have challenged its bottom line.

The company has looked toward expanding sales of higher-margin products, like packaged meat, in a shift away from its traditional business of selling fresh meat cuts. Tyson has also said it would likely raise prices and cut production this year to absorb some of the higher commodity costs.

For the quarter ended March 30, Tyson reported a profit of $95 million, or 26 cents a share, down from $166 million, or 44 cents a share, a year earlier. Excluding items such as a currency-translation gain and impairment charges on noncore assets in China, adjusted earnings were 36 cents in the most-recent quarter. Sales increased 1.8% to $8.42 billion.

Operating margin fell to 2.1% from 3.1% as input costs jumped 3.6%.

Beef sales rose 2.3% to $3.44 billion as average prices were 6.5% higher, but volume was down 3.9%.  Chicken sales increased 6.3% to $3.1 billion on a 6.2% rise in average prices, while volume edged up 0.1%.  Pork sales fell 4.4% to $1.31 billion as both volume and averages prices declined 2.2%.



President, founder of RFD-TV honored by National FFA Organization

Patrick Gottsch's support of FFA over the last 25 years has significantly raised awareness of FFA and agricultural education.

Since 1998, the president and founder of RFD-TV has broadcast the organization's annual national convention to millions of homes and schools. He created a weekly TV program that highlights FFA activities at the local, state and national level. And last year, Gottsch gave $1 million to FFA, the organization's largest-ever unrestricted gift from an individual.

“FFA truly treasures its relationship with Patrick and RFD-TV,” said National FFA Organization CEO Dr. Dwight Armstrong. “We appreciate his assistance in our quest to grow our membership and provide more opportunities to FFA members of the future.”

Gottsch was recently honored for his passion, dedication to agriculture and personal generosity in support of FFA at the National FFA Center in Indianapolis.

NE Beef Council Celebrates May-Beef Month!

Please join Nebraska farmers and ranchers in celebrating and enjoying the high quality beef for which our state is known.  From cattle farmers & ranchers to feed manufacturers and processors, thousands of people play an important role in beef's journey from pasture to plate. In fact, cattle generate $12 billion in total direct and indirect activity in Nebraska’s economy making beef much more than just what’s for dinner.

Please join us in celebrating “Beef Month in Nebraska" this May.

May 3rd - Pac N Save, Seward
Burger Bash Grillout in store parkinglot from 11am - 1pm
See store for special beef sales

May 10th - Imperial Super Foods, Imperial
Burger Bash Grillout in store parkinglot from 11am - 1pm
See store for special beef sales

May 17th - Grocery Kart, Broken Bow
Burger Bash Grillout in store parkinglot from 11am - 1pm
See store for special beef sales

May 24th - Pac N Save, Wayne
Burger Bash Grillout in store parkinglot from 11am - 1pm
See store for special beef sales

May 31st - Boogaart's, Kearney
Burger Bash Grillout in store parkinglot from 11am - 1pm
See store for special beef sales

Nebraska Beef  Facts
-    $12.1 billion impact to Nebraska's Economy
-    20,000 beef cow operations
-    1.88 million head of beef cows
-    The average herd size is 94 head
-    4,570 cattle feeding operations statewide
-    5.1 million cattle fed and marketed per year
-    On average there are 2.3 million head of cattle on feed
-    Only 770 feeding operations are larger than 1,000 head

U.S. Beef Facts
-    757,300 beef cow operations
-    32.6 million head of beef cows
-    The average herd size is 43 head
-    87,160 cattle feeding operations
-    26.2 million cattle fed and marketed per year
-    14.3 million head of cattle on feed
-    The average cattle feeding operation cares for approximately 290 head
-    Cattle and calves total 41% of the $99 billion worth of U.S. livestock and poultry sold
-    Individual or family, family held corporations, and partnerships make up 99% of the U.S. farm ownership

Where Nebraska Stacks up Nationally
1st.... Commercial red meat production, 2011 - 7,163,800,000 lbs; Commercial cattle slaughter, 2011 - 6,869,200 head; Commercial cattle slaughter, 2011, live weight - 9,060,655,000 lbs
2nd....All Cattle and calves, Jan. 1, 2012 - 6,250,000 head; All cattle on feed, Jan. 1, 2012 - 2,650,000 head

The Nebraska Beef Cattle Industry
Its the state’s single largest industry and the engine that powers the state’s economy. The multiplied impact of the $6.5 billion in cattle sales each year is $12.1 billion. Cattle-related employment means income for businesses up and down main street in towns and cities across the state. In short, the beef cattle industry has an unmistakable impact on other economies in Nebraska.

Nebraska is Unique
The importance of cattle feeding to Nebraska’s economy runs deeper than in other states. Nearly 5 million head are finished and marketed in Nebraska, a state with a population of 1.8 million residents. Texas markets a third more cattle than Nebraska, but it has a population of 25.6 million residents over 14 times larger. Iowa markets less than 2 million cattle and has 1.2 million more residents than Nebraska. This means such states depend on other industries. Their standard of living isn’t nearly as dependent on cattle feeding as Nebraska’s.

Nebraska has the Top Cow Counties in the Nation
Nebraska has the top three beef cow counties in the U.S., including the nation’s No. 1 cow county – Cherry County, with nearly 166,000 cows. Custer County is No. 2 (100,000) and Holt County is No. 3 (99,000). Also among the top counties in the nation is Lincoln County at No. 12 (69,000).

Four Times as many Cattle as People
January 2012 figures illustrate that Nebraska continues to have far more cattle than people. Cattle outnumber Nebraskans nearly 4 to 1. Cows number 1.94 million, versus Nebraska residents who number just 1.8 million. The cows and the 4.7 million head that are annually fed in Nebraska total nearly 6.64 million cattle.

Why so much Beef in Nebraska?
Nebraska has a unique mix of natural resources. Cattle turn grass from 24 million acres of rangeland and pasture, more than one half of Nebraska’s land mass, into protein and many other products for humans. The land grazed by cattle allows more people to be fed than would otherwise be possible. More than one billion bushels of corn are produced here each year, 40% of which is fed to livestock in the state. Cattle producing families, who make their living from the land, have a strong incentive to protect their animals and the environment.



Ask Your Senators to Vote for Reasonable Fuel Storage Rules for Farmers

When the Senate takes up consideration of the Water Resources Development Act next week, Sens. James Inhofe (R-Okla.), Mark Pryor (D-Ark.), and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) plan to offer an amendment that would alleviate the costly regulatory burden on farmers resulting from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Rule. Their amendment would raise the on-farm fuel storage threshold requiring spill containment facilities to a more realistic and practical level. Their amendment also would allow more farms to self-certify rather than being forced to hire independent engineers.    

The American Soybean Association strongly supports their amendment and urges ASA members to contact their senators to urge them to vote in favor of the amendment when it is offered.

The EPA’s current rule requires farmers that have fuel/oil storage facilities with a capacity of over 1,320 gallons to construct a containment facility, like a dike or a basin, which must retain 110 percent of the fuel in the container. These mandated infrastructure improvements, along with the necessary inspection and certification by a specially licensed Professional Engineer, will cost many farmers tens of thousands of dollars.

The amendment, also known as the Farmers Undertake Environmental Land Stewardship Act, or FUELS Act, would modify the EPA’s SPCC rule to raise the exemption levels for fuel storage capacity to better reflect the spill risk and financial resources of farms. The amendment would raise the threshold requiring special containment facilities from 1,320 gallons of fuel/oil storage 10,000 gallons. The proposal would also place a greater degree of responsibility on farmers and ranchers to self-certify compliance if their oil storage facilities exceed the exemption level. If the amount exceeds 42,000 gallons, a professional engineer still would certify the SPCC plans for a farm. The amendment provides another layer of protection by requiring the producer to be able to demonstrate that he or she has no history of oil spills, or to fully comply with the SPCC regulations.

Currently, farmers are expected to have SPCC plans in place by May 10 for fuel/oil storage totaling more than 1,320 gallons; however, EPA is prevented from taking any enforcement measures until the end of the fiscal year on Sept. 30.

ASA Reinforces Support for Crop Insurance, Opposes Means Testing
ASA joined a broad coalition of other farm groups this week in a letter to Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Ranking Member Thad Cochran (R. Miss.) reiterating support for strong crop insurance provisions in a new farm bill, and oppositions to certain provisions that would limit its effectiveness, specifically any form of means testing as a qualification for purchase.

"Agriculture is only beginning to emerge from one of the most significant droughts in our nation’s history. From the fields we hear that crop insurance played a critical role in survival and a key reason that farmers will return to producing food, fiber, feed and fuel this year," wrote the groups. "Limiting crop insurance support to producers of a certain size creates barriers to participation for producers trying to obtain this risk management protection and impacts the financial health of the agricultural community."

"As with other lines of insurance, crop insurance requires a broad pool of participants to function properly," continued the groups. "Arbitrarily assigning a means test for support will impact the pool of participants, both in the near term and longer term… Means testing unfairly discriminates against full-time farms and those producing higher value crops, such as specialty crops."

The groups concluded the letter by highlighting the potential long-range fiscal ramifications of means testing, saying, "Making crop insurance protection unaffordable would cause producers to reduce their program participation, resulting in a higher risk pool of insured producers, higher loss ratios over time and increased premium rates for those that remain in the program. Limiting crop insurance protection would also yield the unintended consequence of increased calls for ad hoc, off-budget disaster assistance, which were not heard during the devastating 2012 crop production year."



Northeast Nebraska RC&D Receives Grant from Nebraska Environmental Trust

The Northeast Nebraska Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D) Council announced today that it will receive $24,733 from the Nebraska Environmental Trust for the “Integrated Management of Noxious Weeds in Biologically Sensitive Areas” project.  The Trust Board announced funding for the project at its meeting on April 4, 2013 in Lincoln.  This is the second year of award with a potential for 3rd year funding totaling $24,134.  The project is one of the 134 projects receiving $24,247,260 in grant awards from the Nebraska Environmental Trust this year.  Of these, 87 were new applications and 47 are carry-over.

Invasive species are cited frequently as significant threats to biological diversity in Nebraska’s Natural Legacy Project planning document (NNLP). To address issues with invasive species, NNLP  recommended development of collaborative conservation efforts to seek effective control measures, increase awareness of biological diversity, and to implement strategies that address specific issues in biologically unique landscapes (BUL’s) identified in the plan. One such group is the Northeast Nebraska Weed Management Area (NNWMA) which was established in 2004.   NNWMA is composed of a diverse group of partners that cover counties and 4,610,212 acres of private, public, and tribal land.

The  BUL’s include prairies that contain federally threatened Western Prairie Fringed Orchid and state listed Small White Lady Slipper Orchid, as well as habitats that are home to 34 other Tier 1 plant, mussel, fish, insect, bird, and mammal species. Historic flooding has occurred on 3 major river systems during the last several years, likely creating habitat that will be conducive for noxious weed growth.

In 2013, NNWMA will conduct aerial mapping surveys, acquire biological control agents (insects) to control noxious weeds on ecologically sensitive sites, and conduct annual education and outreach tours and workshops. Releases will be prioritized and targeted at places where herbicide use is not desired (i.e. high diversity grasslands, wetland/riverine habitats, rangeland with organic designations etc.). Targeted plants are Purple loosestrife, Leafy spurge, Saltcedar, and non-native Phragmites. Appropriate insects will be acquired for purple loosestrife and leafy spurge. Releases will occur in a variety of locations within the NNWMA over 2 more years and will be marked using GPS equipment.   



Nebraska Sends Republican River Water Downstream After Kansas Rejects Deal to Aid Its Water Users

Water is being released to Kansas from Harlan County Reservoir as part of Nebraska’s ongoing efforts to comply with the three-state Republican River Compact. This action came after Kansas ultimately could not agree on a plan that would have allowed Kansas water users access to this water during future irrigation seasons.

“It was my hope that the State of Kansas and the Bureau of Reclamation could have worked out a plan over the past four months that would have benefitted basin water users by making this water available to them without compromising Nebraska’s ability to comply with the Compact. This did not happen,” Nebraska Department of Natural Resources Director Brian Dunnigan said.

At the beginning of this year Department of Natural Resources officials determined that additional water would need to flow into Kansas for compliance with the Compact. Kansas had recently expressed interest in having the water that is now being released from Harlan County Lake to instead be retained so it could be used next year and possibly in 2015. Nebraska officials are agreeable to doing so, as long as Kansas will agree to hold Nebraska harmless for any computed shortfall that results from strict application of compact accounting.

Nebraska’s compliance efforts are based on the proactive Integrated Management Plans that were jointly adopted in 2010 and 2011 by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and the three Republican River Basin Natural Resources Districts. The primary actions taken thus far to address the forecasted shortfall for 2013 have been the implementation of activities by the Natural Resources Districts to reduce water consumption and increase streamflow.

These actions by the NRDs have been coupled with actions by the Department of Natural Resources to ensure that this water is made available to Kansas. To carry out the Department of Natural Resources efforts a “compact call” was placed on surface water in the Basin at the beginning of the year. This call has restricted surface water users and irrigation districts in Nebraska from storing or diverting streamflows in the Republican Basin. “It is unfortunate that these actions are necessary, but when these plans were being developed three years ago everyone anticipated dry years and that this day would likely come. I believe that Nebraska put a very reasonable solution on the table for the state of Kansas that would likely have benefited all water users in the basin, but Kansas appears to be much more concerned about the strict accounting result for 2013, so we are left with no other options but to release the water so that the accounting books will balance. The risk of non-compliance with the Compact is too great for Nebraska to wait until the end of the year to take these actions,” said Director Dunnigan.

By taking these actions it is expected that compliance with the Compact will be achieved for the sixth straight year.

The release of approximately 20,000 acre-feet of water from Harlan County Lake that began Wednesday, May 1st, is expected to take approximately fifteen days.



61 Chop House Grille Crowned Iowa's Best Burger

The "crown" for Iowa's Best Burger in 2013 goes to the 61 Chop House Grille in Mediapolis, where they serve the Angus Black Crown Burger, a hit whether you are looking for "juicy and flavorful" beef or have a fun upscale burger in mind.

The Angus Black Crown Burger was specifically created to enter this year's Iowa Best Burger contest, say chef Terry Reis and his wife Lori Denney. Iowa's Best Burger starts with a fresh 8-ounce CAB (Certified Angus Beef) patty that is char-broiled to medium. The other ingredients combine to show off the distinctive beef flavor, Reis says. "I really thought about the simplicity of this burger as I developed the recipe."

While you might think the additions to the burger contradict that statement, when you sink your teeth into the sandwich, you know we are talking beef first and foremost. Other burger ingredients include a made-from-scratch beer cheese sauce, a slice of pepper Colby Jack cheese, and thick-sliced applewood smoked bacon, all served on a buttery egg bun. No lettuce, tomato or pickles are needed for this hamburger.

This was not Reis' first foray into developing a burger he hoped would catch the judges' eyes and taste buds. In 2011, 61 Chop House Grille also reached the Top Ten designation with 'The Barn Burger,' which is layered with Swiss and American cheeses, a secret "barn sauce," and topped with a haystack of home-made onion straws. The menu prominently features this year's winner, along with the 2011 entry and four other burger variations. With one side, all the burgers range in price from $6.95 to $8.95.

Denney, who manages the marketing for the restaurant says "Being involved in Iowa's Best Burger contest helps us generate activity here." The 2011 contest increased their hamburger sales by 40% and helped identify them as a destination restaurant in a town with a population of 1,600. They regularly draw customers from the Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, Mt. Pleasant and Washington.

That's just the kind of result that the Iowa Beef Industry Council wanted when it started the contest, says Michelle Baumhover, IBIC director of consumer marketing. "One thing we wanted to do is drive more beef-eating consumers to restaurants from February to April, which is typically a slow time of year for restaurants," she said. "This helps our partners--the restaurants--in selling more beef, which is what the beef checkoff is all about."

This is the fourth year of the Iowa Best Burger contest. During this year's contest, more than 6,320 nominations were received. Those nominations named 349 Iowa restaurants in 170 Iowa communities.

The other Top 10 nominees were (alphabetically): Ankeny Diner, Ankeny; B&B Grocery, Meat & Deli, Des Moines; Elm's Club, Creston; First Street Grille, Keosauqua; JB's Bar & Grill, Marcus; Rosco's, Norwalk; Sam's Sodas and Sandwiches, Carroll; The Ritz, Arnold's Park; and Zombie Burger, Des Moines.

The Top Ten restaurants were those with the most nominations. They were then each evaluated by a secret panel of judges who rated the hamburgers based on taste, appearance, and proper serving temperature.



Informa Lowers Wheat Output Forecast

Closely watched crop forecaster Informa Economics Inc. on Wednesday projected U.S. winter wheat output of 1.631 billion bushels this year, down 1% or 14 million bushels from last year, traders said.  Informa forecast hard red winter wheat output of 903 millions bushels, down 101 million bushels on the year, and soft red winter wheat production of 506 million bushels, up 86 million bushels on the year, traders said.

Informa also raised its outlook for corn production in Brazil and Argentina. Informa raised its projection for Brazil's corn output 350,000 metric tons to 71.95 million tons, and its projection for Argentina's corn output 300,000 tons to 25.3 million tons, traders said.  Informa cut its forecast for Brazil's soybean output 1.25 million tons to 83.25 million tons, but raised its forecast for Argentina's soy output 1 million tons to 52 million tons, traders said.

The USDA on April 10 will update its crop production and demand estimates for the U.S. and the world.



Pork Checkoff Offers Pork Management Conference in June

The Pork Checkoff is offering the 2013 Pork Management Conference,Your Pork Industry Investment, June 18 to 21 in Denver. The conference brings together industry experts to speak about current business trends and challenges, helping pork producers gain important insight and financial sophistication they can use to help manage through tough economic times.

"The conference combines up-to-date information on the business of pork production with opportunities to interact with knowledgeable financial and business professionals who are dedicated to helping pork producers succeed," said David Ray, chair of the Checkoff's Producer and State Services Committee and a pork producer from Edenton, N.C.

In addition to the general sessions on Wednesday and Thursday mornings, two concurrent sessions are planned for Thursday. Topics include the Affordable Care Act, the use of alternative feeds, updates on accounting practices for pork producers, a case study on margin management, PRRS strategies and the economics of sow housing.

The registration fee for the conference is $395 per person now and $435 per person after May 24. The first 10 pork producers who have not attended in the past two years will receive a $300 discount on registration, courtesy of AgStar Financial Services.  A registration form and a detailed list of events are available at pork.org.



Costco Promotion Jump-starts Pork Sales

There’s an art to getting the most out of your food budget with meat purchases, and Costco made it easier this year with an unbeatable $4 coupon on boneless pork loin chops and roasts.

“We start with the highest quality pork that’s fresh, never frozen,” said Scott Alleger, the pork buyer for Costco, the second largest retailer in the United States, based on worldwide sales, and the largest warehouse membership club in the United States. “Then we partner with the Pork Checkoff to provide our members with samples, savings and cooking information, so it’s a great combination.”

In January, Costco featured boneless pork loin chops, boneless pork loin roasts and pork recipes in the Costco Connection, which is mailed monthly and also is available for members to pick up at their local Costco warehouse. The Costco Connection, which boasts a circulation of more than 8.6 million, reaches an even broader audience since it’s available online at Costco.com.

The eye-catching magazine feature was supported by weekly in-store pork sampling opportunities, and the results were impressive.

“Our January sales of boneless pork loin chops and roasts were four times our monthly average,” said Alleger, who noted that Costco has 622 total warehouses (including 449 in the United States) and 69.1 million cardholders. “We were also able to work with several of the state pork boards to further drive sales.”

Partnership Grows Stronger
This year marked the fourth time that Costco has offered a pork coupon during this time frame, noted Melissa Laesch, national retail marketing manager for the Pork Checkoff.

“This is one of the largest meat promotions in Costco’s history, and it came at a time when demand for pork typically slows down,” said Laesch, who added that Costco’s coupon redemption rates run well above the average retailer’s coupon redemption rates.

Costco looks forward to partnering with the Pork Checkoff on future pork promotions, Alleger said.

“The professionals at the Pork Checkoff are great to work with. They listen to our ideas and they help us continue to offer exceptional value to our members,” Alleger said. “Together, we’ve been able to drive sales on pork at times where it’s not normally a feature item.”



FDA Seeks Comments on Changes to Flavored Milk Labels

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) wants to hear from consumers, industry and other stakeholders about a citizen petition submitted by two dairy groups to change labeling rules for flavored milk products sweetened with non-nutritive sweeteners.

Currently, FDA's standard of identity regulations require that flavored milk products like chocolate milk that are sweetened with non-nutritive sweeteners include a nutrient content claim as part of the product name on the label. For example, the replacement of nutritive sweeteners with non-nutritive sweeteners in chocolate milk would reduce the product’s calorie count. Because of the replacement, such a product could be called “reduced calorie chocolate milk.”

In addition, FDA regulations require that the specific name of the non-nutritive sweetener must be included in the list of ingredients. The petition, which was submitted by the International Dairy Foods Association and the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), asks FDA to amend the current standard of identity for milk to allow flavored milk products such as chocolate milk sweetened with non-nutritive sweeteners to not have to include a nutrient content claim in the products' name. If the petition were granted, chocolate milk products sweetened with non-nutritive sweeteners could be named 'chocolate milk' without any additional nutrient content claim. However, the non-nutritive sweetener would still be required to be included in the ingredient list on the label. The petition also seeks similar changes for 17 additional dairy products.

On Feb. 20, FDA published in the Federal Register a request for data and comments on the IDFA's and NMPF's petition.

To help consumers and other stakeholders understand details of the petition submitted by the IDFA and NMPF, FDA has posted a Consumer Update on the issue. FDA encourages consumers, industry and other stakeholders and interested persons to file comments on the petition with the agency.



New Yeast Strain Could Lower Cellulosic Ethanol Costs

A new strain of yeast that could help streamline cellulosic ethanol costs and production has been developed by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) researchers. This work, which supports the USDA priority of developing new sources of bioenergy, was conducted by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists at the agency's National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research in Peoria, Ill. ARS is USDA's chief intramural scientific research agency.

ARS molecular biologist Zonglin Lewis Liu and his colleagues determined that this yeast strain can break down and ferment the sugars in corn cobs left behind after the compound xylose--which is sometimes used for industrial activities--has been extracted. The new strain of yeast, Clavispora NRRL Y-50464 (Y-50464), can tolerate cob-derived compounds that interfere with yeast growth and fermentation rates.

It is able to grow rapidly at 98.6 °F, so it thrives at the higher temperatures needed to optimize simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) rates. SSF is a one-step process in cellulosic ethanol production that combines releasing and fermenting feedstock sugars.

The researchers compared how quickly Y-50464 and another yeast strain could release and ferment the sugar in corn cob residues after the xylose had been extracted. The new yeast strain was able to start consuming the residue at a steady rate 24 hours after the test began. The comparison yeast didn't grow at all under the same conditions.

The scientists added the enzymes cellulase and beta-glucosidase, which are often used to break down residues and extract sugars, and observed that Y-50464 reached its peak ethanol production rate of 25.7 grams per liter 5 days after the experiment began. But the yeast actually produced more ethanol, 26.6 grams per liter in 5 days, without the addition of beta-glucosidase.

Testing by Liu's group confirmed that Y-50464 contains beta-glucosidase, which means that using this yeast for cellulosic ethanol production would eliminate the need to include the cost of an additional enzyme to the process. Liu will continue exploring options for combining the desirable characteristics of Y-50464 with additional enzymes to further improve bioprocessing for advanced biofuels production.

Statement by Steve Nelson, President, Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation, On Animal Care Standards in Farm Bill

“The fact that Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow would even consider starting  the discussion on a new farm bill by including legislation initiated and advocated for by extremist organizations is a slap in the face to American farm families.  Including legislation to set a “one size fits all” standard for the housing and treatment of egg-laying hens would set a dangerous precedent and only encourage further bullying of farm families by activists through baseless legal actions and public smear campaigns. People need to understand these extremists groups are creating animal issues to make money and attack farm families.”

“Farmers and ranchers recognize and understand their moral obligation to provide for the well-being of their animals and their responsibility for raising them in a humane and compassionate manner. They have an unwavering dedication to do what’s right for their animals and have been trusted to take care of them for generations. It’s what they do. There is no place for this type of legislation. To start the farm bill discussion with this measure threatens the prospects of passing a much needed farm bill.”



How Imbibitional Chilling Injury Occurs in Corn
Greg Kruger, UNL Extension Cropping Systems Specialist

The extraordinary drought of 2012 is now being followed up by an unusual spring of 2013. Certainly, the drought continues — while recent rains have helped, many areas throughout Nebraska have severely depleted subsoil moisture levels. In addition, recent temperature swings have the potential to wreak havoc on recently planted crops.

While there is some debate over what temperatures cause imbibitional chilling – when seeds absorb water so cold it affects emergence -- and the time factor associated with the response, there is undoubtedly a response from corn plants that imbibe cold water in the first 24-48 hours after planting. With the recent cold weather and some growers planting fields to “beat” the rain, some corn fields may experience symptoms from imbibitional chilling.

It is generally recommended that soil temperatures be 50-55°F at planting to avoid this damge. Some reports have even suggested that corn will not be injured if the soil temperature is above 41° F, but there is certainly some risk that the early planted corn may be injured. The soil temperature measured here at North Platte at 8:30 am. May 1 was 42° F.

Like rubber and other elastic materials, the cells of the corn kernel will expand as the water is imbibed. When the water is cold, the cells will become brittle and are more likely to rupture. If the plant cells do rupture, the new seedling will fail to develop properly. When this happens, we are likely to see delayed emergence, inconsistent plant spacing, and/or “corkscrewing” cotyledons, including leafing out underground.

With modern hybrids, there is likely less risk of this happening because the seed and seedlings are more vigorous, but if you have early planted corn in the ground this year, it will be important to scout it early. Poor stands may need to be replanted.



How Cold Stress Affects Soybean
Jim Specht, UNL Professor of Agronomy and Horticulture

With the warmer conditions and warming soil temperatures planters started rolling across Nebraska over the weekend and early this week. By mid week, however, field work stopped due to rain, snow, and a return to colder temperatures. Now growers are wondering how this cold stress and the potential for inbibitional chilling may affect soybean seeds that have been planted.

Soybean Germination Process
The germination stage of soybean consists first of a very fast uptake of water (imbibitional phase) followed by a much slower uptake of water (osmotic phase). Chilling during the first phase can cause severe problems because the imbibed water is needed to rehydrate the cotyledons and embryo to the point that cell membranes become functional. Cold temperatures interfere with proper hydration of those membranes. The imbibitional phase is typically not very long (less than 24 hours) and can occur with relatively little soil moisture since the seed is dry. Thus, getting a cold rain 0-24 hours after you plant can lead to chilling injury in soybean and lower stands. A study by UNL researcher W.J. Bramlage et al. showed that when the soybean seed coat was removed, imbibition injury occurred within 30 minutes. With a seed coat, imbibition is slower and a longer exposure would be needed before chilling injury occurs.

A key point to consider is that chilling injury is likely to be greater if soil temperatures were cold (less than 40° F) at planting rather than becoming cold 24 or more hours after sowing. The longer the seed is in the ground at warm soil temperatures before cold temperatures occur, the less likelihood there is of chilling injury. The bottom line is: Plant your soybeans if you think the soil temperatures won’t get cold (less than 40°F) for at least 24 hours. If you planted two or more days before the cold rain, there should be no imbibitional injury due to cold temperature.

During the second phase of germination, the fully functional membranes (after imbibitional hydration) create an osmotic situation in which water diffuses into the living cells. Osmotic water uptake is slow with cold temperatures. Chilling during this phase causes little direct injury to the germinating seedling. Cold temperatures will, however, slow emergence.

Be Aware of Soil Moisture Content
More important than cold soil temperatures after imbibitional water uptake is the soil moisture content. Cold soil delays the germination to emergence process, but cold soil plus soggy soil conditions of some duration can substantively reduce soybean emergence. Why? Soil-borne pathogens love soggy soil. Since the period of seedling germination to emergence takes longer due to the cold, those pathogens will have more time to infect the seedling cotyledons and access their carbohydrate, protein, and lipid reserves. The seedling needs those cotyledon reserves to live on until the unifoliolate leaves start photosynthesis and form more carbohydrates. This is why fungicide seed treatments are crucial if planting soybeans in April or early May and in cold, wet conditions. Ultimately, it is soggy soil with cold temperatures that kill your germination.



Long-Term Research Shows Full-Season Corn Hybrids

Growers across the Corn Belt are either anxiously waiting to get into their fields or are in the early stages of planting their 2013 corn crop. If cool, wet weather continues, planting will be delayed for many growers and prompt questions about switching to earlier season hybrids.

Long-term research studies from DuPont Pioneer and several universities show that adapted, full-season corn hybrids usually offer the best yield and profit advantage when planting delays are not extreme.

“The cool, wet weather this spring is causing planting delays in many areas, leaving growers questioning whether they need to make  hybrid maturity switches,” says Mark Jeschke, DuPont Pioneer agronomy research manager. “It is important to weigh your decision carefully. If you switch to a shorter season hybrid too soon, you are giving up higher yield potential and profits.”

According to Jeschke, hybrid changes should be based on expected grower returns including yield, drying costs and test weight discounts. Early hybrids should be used under extreme late-plant or replant situations.

Full-season hybrids typically make full use of a growing season. Even when planted late, these hybrids often outperform early maturing hybrids, adjusting their growth and development to reach maturity in a shortened growing season.

Long-term studies by both Pioneer and universities which included a range of hybrid maturities across planting dates extending from April through June have shown a clear yield and profit advantage for full-season hybrids.

“If growers have questions about switching, including replacement hybrid availability, they should consult their Pioneer sales professional,” says Jeschke.

University research shows that full-season hybrids adjust to late planting with a reduction in their growing degree unit (GDU) requirement of up to six units per day of planting delay. For example, hybrids planted May 20 may require 150 fewer heat units to reach maturity than the same hybrids planted April 25. This adjustment reduces the risk of fall frost damage to these hybrids.

Pioneer studies across several years reinforce the university findings. Pioneer focused on hybrids planted across the central, north-central, north and far-north regions of the Corn Belt. Hybrids were planted from early April to mid-June and grouped into full, medium and early maturities at each location. Several hybrids were included in each maturity group so that true maturity responses could be measured, rather than just specific hybrid responses. The studies looked at differences in corn grain yield response to planting date, as well as moisture, test weight and gross income response. The data provides growers more relevant planting information for the different regions in which they farm.

For example, in the central Corn Belt, results indicate that early to mid-April planting is best for the greatest corn yield potential. Full-season hybrids – hybrids with a comparative relative maturity (CRM) of 111 to 115 – yield better and produce better grain at harvest than early maturity hybrids. Growers should not consider switching full-season hybrids to earlier CRM hybrids until the last week of May.

Soil conditions permitting, April planting also is recommended in the north-central Corn Belt. Growers are encouraged to plant full-season hybrids (103 to 110 CRM) until the last week of May in this region.

Maturity planning is most critical in northernmost states because of the risk of cool weather or early frost. Pioneer recommends producers in northern Corn Belt areas (central Minnesota and north-central Wisconsin) stick with full-season hybrids (98-105 CRM) until approximately May 27.  This recommendation also carries into far-northern areas (northern Minnesota, North Dakota and Quebec, Canada) for hybrids that are full-season there (97-100 CRM).



Ionophores Reduce Impact of Drought Induced Forage Losses
Heather DePra, UNL Extension Educator
Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension Forage Specialist

Drought in Nebraska and much of the United States has cattlemen worried about their pasture and forage supply this year. Culling, early weaning, limit feeding hay and/or concentrates, using alternative feeds, or ammoniating low quality roughages are just a few of the options to consider when implementing a drought plan. Another option is to add an ionophore, a common feed additive, into your cattle nutrition program.

Rumensin and Bovatech, commonly known ionophores, are not new to the beef industry. Rumensin was introduced to cattlemen over 30 years ago and has significantly changed the cattle feeding industry by improving feed efficiency and controlling coccidiosis. However, ionophores can also be used in many other phases of beef cattle production. The improvement in feed efficiency when feeding Rumensin actually increases as the forage level in the diet increases. Therefore, ionophores also provide significant benefits to mature cows in dry lot, cow-calf pairs on pasture, and grazing yearlings. As Rumensin is the only ionophore approved for use in mature reproducing beef cows, it will be referred to as the ionophore of choice for the remainder of the article.

The saying “if a little is good, a lot is better” is not true when it comes to ionophores. At undiluted levels, they can be toxic. Horses are especially sensitive to them. The LD 50 (dose at which a product is expected to be lethal for 50% of the population) for Rumensin in horses is 0.6 mg/lb (1.4 mg/kg), equating to an LD 50 of 763 mg for a 1200 lb horse. Although this is over three times the recommended Rumensin dose for cattle on pasture, it is best to keep horses away from products containing Rumensin, especially mineral and pre-mix type products where Rumensin is highly concentrated in a product. The LD 50 for Rumensin in cattle is 12 mg/lb (26.4 mg/kg), equating to 6,000 mg for a 500 lb calf.

Rumensin fed at appropriate levels improves feed efficiency by acting directly on the bacteria within the rumen to shift the bacteria population to a higher percentage of bacteria that are more efficient. That means cattle get more energy out of the same amount of feed when Rumensin is fed. A summary of 24 different forage trials consistently shows an average improvement of 0.2 lbs/head/day in stocker cattle when fed Rumensin at 200 mg/head/day (Potter, et. al, 1986), across a wide range of forage types, growing seasons, and supplementation methods. Similarly, a four trial summary, utilizing mature beef cows fed 50-200 mg/head/day of Rumensin, showed cows maintained the same body weight on 5-10% less feed (NADA 95-735). Therefore, with Rumensin, you can feed the same number of cows with 5-10% less feed or you can feed the same amount of feed and increase the number of cows 5-10%. Keep in mind, the expected improvement in feed efficiency assumes the basic energy and protein requirements of the cattle are being met.

Another benefit to Rumensin is that it prevents and controls coccidiosis, a disease in which protozoa damage the lining of the intestines, cecum, and colon. When consumed by cattle at the appropriate mg/head/day level (at least 0.14 mg/lb of body weight/day, up to 200 mg/head/day for beef cows), Rumensin kills the invading protozoa at several places within the protozoan lifecycle: before the coccidia invade the small intestine, as the protozoa emerge into the lumen of the small intestine, and also in the lumen of the large intestine. Rumensin also reduces the opportunity for reinfection by reducing the amount of new coccidia shed by the animal.

The higher your per head/day feeding costs, obviously the greater your return on the cost of Rumensin. The following are several examples of the cost benefit when implementing Rumensin into your feeding program:

Mature cows in dry lot: Rumensin costs about $0.02/head/day when fed at an intake of 200 mg/head/day. Daily delivery can be accomplished several ways. It can be part of a total mixed ration fed daily, blended into a supplement fed to cows receiving free-choice forage, through a protein cake, or part of a salt-mineral mix. If feed efficiency improves just 5%, Rumensin is cost effective whenever daily feed costs exceed 40 cents/cow. Commonly, dry lot ration feed costs are more than $2.50/cow/day so 2 cents of Rumensin should reduce daily feed costs at least 12.5 cents/cow, resulting in a net gain of at least 10.5 cents/cow/day. For a 100-cow herd, instead of spending $250/day for feed, cost may be reduced to $239.50/day for feed with Rumensin. Plus, feed supplies will last longer or allow you to feed 4 or 5 more cows.

Cow-calf pairs on pasture: For cattle on pasture not receiving supplemental feed, Rumensin can be provided as part of a salt-mineral mix, either as a loose, free choice mineral or in pressed blocks. Rumensin may add up to 3 to 4 cents per day above what the blocks or free choice mineral mixes alone cost. Similar to dry-lotted cows, cows on pasture will utilize the available forage more efficiently, helping maintain body weight (or body condition score) on less forage by increasing the energy value of the forage already being consumed (NRC, 1996). In addition, coccidiosis is controlled in the cows, lessening the chance of calves becoming infected.

Stockers or replacement heifers on pasture: Yearling daily gain on pasture increases about 0.2 lbs/head when Rumensin is supplied by one of the previously mentioned methods. If added Rumensin costs 4 cents/day, the value of the added gain only needs to be greater than 20 cents/pound for this addition to be cost effective. If the value of gain is $1/pound, adding Rumensin will provide a daily net gain of about 16 cents /head, or $24/head during a 150-day grazing season. Replacement heifers on pasture would also be expected to increase average daily gain when fed Rumensin and may also have fewer days to first estrus.

Ionophores are an important tool when managing feed costs for your cattle. Contact your feed consultant or local extension office for more information.



Control Flies on Cattle Early
Bethany Johnston, UNL Extension Educator

Horn and stable flies are common pests. The warm weather will cause flies to hatch early, so now is the time to start thinking about control. Controlling flies before they are a problem (early in the season) will give you the biggest bang for your buck. Dave Boxler, UNL Extension, has been conducting research for over 20 years, and has suggestions for these beef pests.

Horn flies were brought over from Europe hundreds of years ago and spend their entire life on cattle except to lay eggs in fresh manure. Horn flies can impact weaning weights in calves, due to the vast amount of blood lost to flies from the nursing cow, ultimately causing lower milk production.

Horn Fly Control: Control of horn flies includes feed additives to kill eggs in manure, dust bags, pour-ons, back rubs, mist sprayers, and most common - ear tags. Control products recommended as animal sprays are: coumaphos (Co-Ral), permethrin (many brand names), natural pyrethrins, and phosmet (Prolate).

When using insecticide tags for horn flies, two tags per adult animal should be in place about June 1st (during a normal year) or when fly populations are over 200 flies per animal. About 60 flies can fit into the size of a silver dollar (you can see pictures at http://beef.unl.edu). The tags release a great amount of chemical early and then taper off. Tagging too early will cause the greatest amount of chemical to be released from the tags before the flies become a problem. Applying insecticide ear tags in early May will most likely require re-application of ear tags or switching to an alternative fly control method later in the summer to achieve season-long fly control. All adult animals should be tagged in the herd. Remove old tags to prevent chemical resistance in the flies. If your tags aren’t working, you may have to switch methods and the type of chemical used. Another problem with horn flies is they can travel distances up to 15 miles. You may able to quell the fly population in your herd, only to have horn flies migrate in from another area, or from neighboring cattle herds.

Stable flies are the major cause of bunching in cattle. The stable fly originated from Africa and has a rough, jagged mouthpart that tears the flesh and causes great pain in the animal. Only three stable flies per leg can cause cattle to bunch, stomp their legs, or stand in the waterholes. Stable flies develop in rotting organic material like decaying manure, grass clippings, or wet rotting silage. Since most barns contain hospitable environment for stable fly eggs, stable flies are found around barns/stables, as well as feedlots and compost piles. However, open pastures in the Sandhills usually lack the organic decaying material needed for stable fly eggs. How do stable flies end up in pastures? Stable flies can travel up to 50 miles by themselves, hitch a ride on the sides of trailers, or may migrate on weather fronts. Since the stable flies feed on blood, they tend to congregate on the legs where the veins and blood vessels are close to the skin. Feeding stable flies are very painful and disrupt grazing and lead to lower weight gains.

Stable Fly Control: Since dust bags and oilers don’t deliver pesticide to the legs, they are inefficient, as well as ear tags. The only management option available for control of stable flies on range cattle is the use of animal sprays. Products such as coumaphos (Co-Ral), permethrin (many brand names), natural pyrethins (many brand names), and phosmet (Prolate) are available for use. Clean-up of wasted feed at winter feeding sites may prevent localized fly development but may not reduce the economic impact of stable fly feeding. Animal sprays work well, but are labor intensive and require gathering and penning of animals which might not be practical in large pasture situations. Mist blower sprayers work rather well, some ranchers with large pastures have mounted misters on their cake pickups: the cows are caked and then misted with fly spray as they eat.



EPA Continues to Release Producers' Personal Information

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is appalled to learn that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to illegally release information on cattle operations to the activist groups Earth Justice, the Pew Charitable Trust and the Natural Resources Defense Council. In this latest action, the agency again admitted it had released too much information on livestock producers, specifically producers from Montana and Nebraska. This action happened less a month after the agency found it had released too much information on livestock producers in 10 states. 

NCBA Past President J.D. Alexander, a cattle feeder from Pilger, Neb., and whose information was released to the activists groups in the initial EPA action, said it is clear “someone at EPA is either completely incompetent or intentionally violating federal law. Either way, this action shows EPA cannot be trusted with sensitive information and should not have the authority to procure or disseminate it. NCBA is calling for an investigation by the Office of Inspector General into this matter.”

The records released in February by EPA include names of producers and operations, locations and in some cases even personal phone numbers for farmers and ranchers who own beef, swine or poultry operations. Most of the 80,000 facilities listed are not regulated under the Clean Water Act (CWA), some having as few as 12 head of livestock. After NCBA and other livestock groups expressed outrage over the initial release of information, EPA conducted a review of the records and admitted it released too much personal information for 10 of the 29 states included in the documents. After a second review, the agency once again said too much information was released for operations located in Nebraska and Montana.

“These actions by EPA once again prove that the agency is incapable of properly doing its job. Nowhere in law is EPA required to obtain and display such personal information on all these livestock operations. On the contrary, the federal government should be protecting its citizens from unwarranted attacks,” Alexander said. “Instead, EPA has once again threatened the health and safety of America’s farmers and their families, as well as decreased the security of our food system. Now they have politely asked these activist groups twice to return those documents with extremely sensitive information on them. What makes EPA think that these groups will listen and act appropriately in order to protect hardworking farming and ranching families, those families that environmental activist groups want out of business?”

He added that NCBA continues to pursue legislative action that would prevent the agency from being able to make these devastating mistakes.

Nebraska Sens. Mike Johanns and Deb Fischer said the fact that EPA disregarded the privacy of cattle producers in their home state of Nebraska and across the country shows the agency continues to act as if it is above the law.

“EPA’s disclosure of personal and confidential information of private citizens and business owners – including 3,500 Nebraskans – demonstrates a complete disregard for their privacy and safety. Now, we have learned that, in the agency’s mismanaged attempt to recover the information, the EPA failed to request the return of hundreds of Nebraskans’ personal data that should not have been released,” said Fischer. “This whole episode is more than a mere comedy of errors; it represents a pattern of disturbing disregard for the rights of our citizens. I believe Nebraskans – and Congress – deserve a thorough, independent and speedy review of the EPA’s handling of the deliberate disclosure and botched recovery process.”

Johanns agreed with Fischer, stating that “EPA’s ongoing assault on America’s agriculture producers is nothing short of alarming.”

“EPA’s disregard for the privacy of farmers and ranchers in Nebraska and across the country is, at best, woeful negligence, and at worst, a flagrant effort to aid organizations seeking to radically dismantle agriculture practices, with no regard for what it takes to feed the world. I certainly hope EPA’s release of sensitive personal data was not part of a larger agenda to jeopardize American agriculture operations, but its track record does not help its case. EPA must now explain how it will ensure private information is not abused.”




‘Iowa Girl Eats’ and Iowa Food & Family Project launch ‘Join My Journey’

A well-known Iowa blogger is taking her online adventures to the farm with the help of the Iowa Food & Family Project.

‘Join My Journey’ features Kristin Porter of West Des Moines, author of the popular and influential ‘Iowa Girl Eats’ blog. Throughout the spring, summer and fall, Porter will journey from her urban lifestyle to farm country sharing her unique perspectives about the people who grow and serve great food. Her adventures will be featured at iowafoodandfamily.com.

While traveling Iowa, Porter will explore the expertise and science of new seed technologies, sort and package eggs at an egg laying farm, take the wheel of a tractor and combine to plant and harvest soybeans and accompany farm families as they tend to their pigs, turkeys and cattle. She’ll also feature restaurants known for serving great food and celebrate the quality of life found in the rural communities she visits.

“I love food,” says Porter, whose blog is read by nearly 2 million people.  “Even though I’ve spent most of my life in Iowa, I’m not a farm girl. But I want to know more about farming and our state’s rural heritage. I can’t wait to take my fans along on this incredible journey.”

Iowans can join Porter’s journey at iowafoodandfamily.com. There they can view photos and videos of her on-farm adventures, discover new recipes, pose questions for Kristin to ask the farm families she meets, enter contests to win great prizes and learn all there is to know about healthy food options.

‘Join My Journey’ is an activity of the Iowa Food & Family Project. Created in 2011 by the Iowa Soybean Association and involving more than 30 partners, the Iowa Food & Family Project sponsors innovative and engaging activities providing Iowans with the real scoop on food from the people who best know it and grow it — Iowa farm families.

Partners in ‘Join My Journey’ are DuPont Pioneer, Farm Credit Services of America, Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Egg Council, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Soybean Association, Midwest Dairy Association, Iowa Turkey Federation and United Soybean Board.

“Iowans are very interested in their food, where it comes from and how it’s grown,” says Lois White with the Iowa Egg Council. “We’re excited to accompany Kristin and all of her followers on this discovery tour across Iowa.”

The Iowa Food & Family Project is dedicated to uniting Iowans in conversations about today’s farms and food system through personal engagement and advocacy. It proudly serves as presenting sponsor of the Iowa Games and supporter of Live Healthy Iowa and is funded in part by the soybean checkoff.  For more information, go to iowafoodandfamily.com.



Obama Nominates USTR, Commerce Picks; More Moves at USDA

President Barack Obama announced this week he intends to nominate Michael Froman as the next U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), the country’s top trade negotiator. Froman is an assistant to the President and a deputy national security advisor for international economic affairs. Froman was involved in negotiating free trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea and previously worked for the Treasury Department and Citibank. As the new USTR, he will be in charge of managing ongoing Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations and free trade agreement negotiations with the European Union. Also on Thursday, Obama announced Penny Pritzker as his pick for Secretary of Commerce. Pritzker is a businesswoman involved in an investment firm and real estate and is part of the family that founded Hyatt Hotels.

USDA announced this week Michael Scuse, the current undersecretary for farm and foreign agricultural services, will take over as deputy secretary after Kathleen Merrigan departs that post on Friday. The change will create something of a domino effect, with Darci Vitter taking over as acting undersecretary and Suzanne Heinen becoming acting deputy undersecretary for farm and foreign agricultural services, Vitter’s current role.



Ag Organizations Applaud Six Countries for Support of Ag Production Technologies

Key members of the U.S. agricultural value chain have joined together to applaud the work of the United States and like-minded governments to promote the importance of science-based regulations to facilitate trade of agricultural commodities derived from agricultural biotechnology.

In a joint statement, the United States was joined by the governments of Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada and Paraguay to announce their intention to work collaboratively to remove global barriers to the trade of agricultural biotechnology and promote science-based, transparent and predictable regulatory approaches.

The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA), American Soybean Association (ASA), Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), North American Export Grain Association (NAEGA), National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), and National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) said they welcome the leadership of the U.S. government – including the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the United States Trade Representative, and U.S. Department of State, as well as their counterparts in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada and Paraguay – in taking these steps toward greater collaboration to systematically address global barriers to trade of products derived from agricultural biotechnology.

The U.S. agriculture sector agrees that a particular area of concern is the timeliness and efficiency of global regulatory systems. In the joint statement, the like-minded governments have highlighted their intention to promote synchronization of authorizations by regulatory authorities – in particular for food, feed and processing purposes.

The six nations also stated their intention to collaborate in the development of domestic, regional and international approaches to facilitate the global management of low-level presence of biotechnology-derived commodities that are authorized in one or more countries, but not in the country of import.

Agricultural production from these six countries is a major contributor to global food security.  Collectively, these countries provide the vast majority of corn and soybean supply in international markets.  Production and trade in all six of these countries use modern technology, including plant biotechnology, to provide for consumers’ needs around the world.

The joint statement can be accessed via the Foreign Agricultural Service’s website: http://www.fas.usda.gov/itp/biotech/biotech_trade.asp.



Valmont Raises Dividend by 11.1 Percent

The Board of Directors of Valmont Industries, Inc., Omaha, has increased the company's quarterly cash dividend effective this July. The second quarter cash dividend will be 25.0 cents per share payable on July 15, 2013 to shareholders of record on June 28, 2013.

The dividend is an increase of 11.1% from the prior quarter's dividend, and indicates an annual rate of $1.00 per share.

Valmont is a global leader in designing and manufacturing poles, towers and structures for lighting and traffic, wireless communication and utility markets, industrial access systems, highway safety barriers and a provider of protective coating services.

Valmont also leads the world in mechanized irrigation equipment for agriculture, enhancing food production while conserving and protecting natural water resources.



ADM Reports First Quarter 2013 Earnings of $269 Million or $0.41 per Share

Archer Daniels Midland Company today reported financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2013. The company reported net earnings for the quarter of $269 million, or $0.41 per share, down from $0.60 per share in the same period one year earlier. Adjusted earnings per share were $0.48, down from $0.78 in the same period last year. Segment operating profit was $630 million.

“As expected, this was a challenging quarter, with agricultural services negatively impacted by the ongoing effects of last summer’s U.S. drought,” said ADM Chairman and CEO Patricia Woertz. “In oilseeds, our earnings were reduced by challenges in Brazil and depressed margins in cocoa. Our ethanol business improved as declining inventories supported overall industry margins, and we began to see positive results from the actions we’ve been taking to improve the profitability of that business.

“We continue to manage through tight U.S. stocks of oilseeds and grains until the North American harvest. Demand for our products remains solid, and we will continue to leverage our global origination and processing network to serve the needs of our customers worldwide.”
 
First Quarter 2013 Highlights
•  Adjusted EPS of $0.48 excludes approximately $34 million in pretax LIFO charges, or $0.03 per share, and a provision of $25 million, or $0.04 per share, related to the previously disclosed FCPA matter dating back to 2008 and earlier.
•  Oilseeds Processing profit decreased $229 million due to significantly lower results from cocoa caused by industry margin pressures and weaker South American origination results.
•  Corn Processing profit increased $20 million due to improved ethanol results. Sweeteners and starches results were negatively impacted by a $44 million pretax charge from corn hedge timing effects ($0.04 per share). 
•  Agricultural Services profit decreased $110 million as U.S. origination volumes declined.

Directors Elected at ADM Annual Meeting
Archer Daniels Midland Company announced today at its 90th Annual Stockholders’ Meeting that 12 incumbent directors were re-elected to its Board. The directors re-elected are:  Alan L. Boeckmann, George W. Buckley, Mollie Hale Carter, Terrell K. Crews, Pierre Dufour, Donald E. Felsinger, Antonio Maciel Neto, Patrick J. Moore, Thomas F. O’Neill, Daniel T. Shih, Kelvin R. Westbrook and Patricia A. Woertz.

Cash Dividend Declared
ADM’s Board of Directors also declared a cash dividend of 19.0 cents per share on the company’s common stock payable June 6, 2013, to stockholders of record May 16, 2013.  This is ADM’s 326th consecutive quarterly payment, a record of 81 years of uninterrupted dividends. As of March 31, 2013, there were 658,907,288 shares of ADM common stock outstanding.



ADM to Acquire GrainCorp

Archer Daniels Midland Company announced today that it has completed due diligence on GrainCorp Limited and intends to make a cash offer to acquire the outstanding common shares of the company for A$12.20 per share under the terms of the takeover bid implementation deed signed with GrainCorp last week.

“We believe the offer delivers strong value for both companies’ shareholders,” said ADM Chairman and CEO Patricia Woertz. “The acquisition fits well with our growth strategy and will meet our return objectives. We are also confident in the cultural fit of our two companies: we share similar values of integrity, excellence and safety, with strong commitments to people, communities, customers and sustainability.

“With the world’s population growing by half a billion people every decade, and with rising incomes driving increased consumption of grains and protein, global demand for agricultural products will continue to see significant growth. GrainCorp provides an excellent platform to serve that growth, particularly in fast-growing markets in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. Together, ADM and GrainCorp will give customers around the world access to a more diversified origination portfolio while providing Australian growers with greater access to world markets, enhanced logistics, and leading market insight.”

The offer implies an aggregate transaction value of about A$3.4 billion. The transaction value reflects the weighted average cost of acquiring the initial 19.8 percent stake in GrainCorp at an average of A$11.24 per share, and the remaining shares of GrainCorp at A$12.20 per share. The transaction meets ADM’s key financial objectives, and will be earnings accretive in the first full year. ADM will fund the acquisition through a combination of operating cash flows and debt.

As part of the agreement, GrainCorp will additionally pay to its shareholders, prior to the completion of the transaction, dividends totaling A$1.00 per share. If the regulatory conditions are not achieved by Oct. 1, 2013, GrainCorp will pay an additional dividend of A3.5 cents per share for each full month between Oct. 1, 2013 and the satisfaction or waiver of the regulatory conditions, subject to GrainCorp being profitable over that period.

GrainCorp has indicated that the ADM offer would be unanimously recommended by the GrainCorp board, subject to there being no superior proposal, an independent expert confirming that the offer is fair and reasonable, and the regulatory conditions for the acquisition being satisfied or waived by Dec. 31, 2013.

The offer is subject to conditions, set out in the takeover bid implementation deed viewable at www.adm.com, which include ADM receiving a minimum acceptance of 50.1 percent of GrainCorp shares. ADM presently owns 19.8 percent of GrainCorp’s shares.




Speedy Traders Exploit Loophole

High-speed traders are using a hidden facet of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange's computer system to trade on the direction of the futures market before other investors get the same information.

Using powerful computers, high-speed traders are trying to profit from their ability to detect when their own orders for certain commodities are executed a fraction of a second before the rest of the market sees that data, traders say.

The advantage often is just one to 10 milliseconds, according to people familiar with the matter and trading records reviewed by The Wall Street Journal. But that is plenty of time for computer-driven traders, who say they can structure their orders so that the confirmations tip which direction prices for crude oil, corn and other commodities are moving. A millisecond is one-thousandth of a second.

The ability to exploit such small time gaps raises questions about transparency and fairness amid the computer-driven, rapid-fire trading that increasingly grips Wall Street and confounds regulators.

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange, a unit of CME Group Inc., is the largest U.S. futures exchange, handling 12.5 million contracts a day on average in the first quarter, according to Sandler + O'Neill Partners L.P. High-frequency trading generated about 61% of all futures-market volume, up from 47% in 2008, according to Tabb Group.

CME Will Stop Early Info Access
CME Group Inc. said it will take additional steps to "further reduce potential discrepancies" that give some investors trading data before others.

The Chicago exchange operator, responding to a Page One article in The Wall Street Journal Wednesday, said it is "continually making improvements to our trading platform to increase efficiencies."

The company said its goal is to "bring variability as close to zero as possible."

CME said it will make additional upgrades to its hardware, software and other parts of its operations by year-end to make the "overall system performance more predictable."

The Journal reported that high-speed traders are using a hidden facet of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange's computer system to trade on the direction of the futures market before other investors get the same information.



USDA Dairy Products March 2013 Highlights

Total cheese output (excluding cottage cheese) was 954 million pounds, 0.2 percent below March 2012 but 11.5 percent above February 2013.  Italian type cheese production totaled 416 million pounds, 1.3 percent above March 2012 and 15.2 percent above February 2013.  American type cheese production totaled 384 million pounds, 1.4 percent above March 2012 and 10.6 percent above February 2013.  Butter production was 184 million pounds, 4.2 percent above March 2012 and 5.6 percent above February 2013.

Dry milk powders (comparisons with March 2012)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 146 million pounds, down 22.8 percent.
Skim milk powders - 47.5 million pounds, up 276.2 percent.

Whey products (comparisons with March 2012)
Dry whey, total - 84.1 million pounds, down 4.5 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 91.9 million pounds, up 1.1 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 37.6 million pounds, down 4.2 percent.

Frozen products (comparisons with March 2012)
Ice cream, regular (hard) - 69.5 million gallons, down 5.1 percent.
Ice cream, lowfat (total) - 40.5 million gallons, down 13.6 percent.
Sherbet (hard) - 4.30 million gallons, down 2.6 percent.
Frozen yogurt (total) - 6.76 million gallons, up 1.1 percent.



USDA and EPA Release New Report on Honey Bee Health

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today released a comprehensive scientific report on honey bee health. The report states that there are multiple factors playing a role in honey bee colony declines, including parasites and disease, genetics, poor nutrition and pesticide exposure.

"There is an important link between the health of American agriculture and the health of our honeybees for our country's long term agricultural productivity," said Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan. "The forces impacting honeybee health are complex and USDA, our research partners, and key stakeholders will be engaged in addressing this challenge."

"The decline in honey bee health is a complex problem caused by a combination of stressors, and at EPA we are committed to continuing our work with USDA, researchers, beekeepers, growers and the public to address this challenge," said Acting EPA Administrator Bob Perciasepe. "The report we've released today is the product of unprecedented collaboration, and our work in concert must continue. As the report makes clear, we've made significant progress, but there is still much work to be done to protect the honey bee population."

In October 2012, a National Stakeholders Conference on Honey Bee Health, led by federal researchers and managers, along with Pennsylvania State University, was convened to synthesize the current state of knowledge regarding the primary factors that scientists believe have the greatest impact on managed bee health.

Key findings include:

Parasites and Disease Present Risks to Honey Bees:
-    The parasitic Varroa mite is recognized as the major factor underlying colony loss in the U.S. and other countries. There is widespread resistance to the chemicals beekeepers use to control mites within the hive. New virus species have been found in the U.S. and several of these have been associated with Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD).

Increased Genetic Diversity is Needed:
-    U.S. honeybee colonies need increased genetic diversity. Genetic variation improves bees thermoregulation (the ability to keep body temperature steady even if the surrounding environment is different), disease resistance and worker productivity.
-    Honey bee breeding should emphasize traits such as hygienic behavior that confer improved resistance to Varroa mites and diseases (such as American foulbrood).

Poor Nutrition Among Honey Bee Colonies:
-    Nutrition has a major impact on individual bee and colony longevity. A nutrition-poor diet can make bees more susceptible to harm from disease and parasites. Bees need better forage and a variety of plants to support colony health.
-    Federal and state partners should consider actions affecting land management to maximize available nutritional forage to promote and enhance good bee health and to protect bees by keeping them away from pesticide-treated fields.

There is a Need for Improved Collaboration and Information Sharing:
-    Best Management Practices associated with bees and pesticide use, exist, but are not widely or systematically followed by members of the crop-producing industry. There is a need for informed and coordinated communication between growers and beekeepers and effective collaboration between stakeholders on practices to protect bees from pesticides.
-    Beekeepers emphasized the need for accurate and timely bee kill incident reporting, monitoring, and enforcement.

Additional Research is Needed to Determine Risks Presented by Pesticides:
-    The most pressing pesticide research questions relate to determining actual pesticide exposures and effects of pesticides to bees in the field and the potential for impacts on bee health and productivity of whole honey bee colonies.

Those involved in developing the report include USDA's Office of Pest Management Policy (OPMP), National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), Agricultural Research Services (ARS), Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) as well as the EPA and Pennsylvania State University. The report will provide important input to the Colony Collapse Disorder Steering Committee, led by the USDA, EPA and the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).

An estimated one-third of all food and beverages are made possible by pollination, mainly by honey bees. In the United States, pollination contributes to crop production worth $20-30 billion in agricultural production annually. A decline in managed bee colonies puts great pressure on the sectors of agriculture reliant on commercial pollination services. This is evident from reports of shortages of bees available for the pollination of many crops.

The Colony Collapse Steering Committee was formed in response to a sudden and widespread disappearance of adult honey bees from beehives, which first occurred in 2006. The Committee will consider the report's recommendations and update the CCD Action Plan which will outline major priorities to be addressed in the next 5-10 years and serve as a reference document for policy makers, legislators and the public and will help coordinate the federal strategy in response to honey bee losses.

To view the report, which represents the consensus of the scientific community studying honey bees, please visit: http://www.usda.gov/documents/ReportHoneyBeeHealth.pdf. 

WELCOME TO MAY - BEEF MONTH!

Myth: Beef quality grades and eating satisfaction are on the decline.
(from www.factsaboutbeef.com)

The Facts: The entire beef community is committed to raising the highest-quality beef possible and consistently providing people with a good beef eating experience. Let’s discuss beef quality.

What is Quality Beef?
Most people describe overall beef quality as the combination of quality grades and eating satisfaction, including characteristics like flavor, juiciness and tenderness. Learn more in this video about beef quality.

How is beef quality measured?
Meat grading is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). There are eight quality grades for beef which reflect the amount of marbling (fat within the lean),  and the maturity of the animal.Grading is optional and paid for by meat processors. More than 90 percent of the beef available today is graded. Generally, only three grades are identified and sold to restaurants and at retail... Prime, Choice, and Select. 

Is beef quality on the decline?
No. In fact, over the past 20 years, overall quality grades (such as Prime or Choice) of beef have steadily improved.
-    The percent of beef meeting USDA standards for “Prime” and “Choice” beef, which are the highest quality grades, is  high, at greater than 60 percent.
-    Since 1990, beef tenderness has also improved significantly, according to four iterations of the National Beef Tenderness Study, a benchmark of beef tenderness levels at retail and foodservice.
-    Beef tenderness and overall quality grades are also impacted by things like cattle genetics, diet and proper cattle management.
-    Beef tenderness can also be improved by tenderness management systems put in place b at multiple steps in the supply chain.
-    Consumers say taste is the most important attribute they consider when choosing foods to make at home or order at a restaurant and 86 percent agree beef tastes great.



Keeping Beef Contemporary Gets More Working Space
(from beef.org)

Beef has a long history of tremendous popularity with the American public. Keeping it current with modern trends and tastes, though, requires constant attention.

Beef checkoff-funded recipe and product development got a boost recently when the New Product and Culinary Innovation Center received an expansion and update. The test kitchen facility in Centennial, Colo., located at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA),  a contractor to the Beef Checkoff Program, is used by a team of professionals that creates beef recipes and shows how to best utilize beef products.

Space for the New Product and Culinary Innovation Center was significantly increased, while updated equipment was added, providing additional flexibility and capabilities to the checkoff-funded team, according to Steve Wald, executive director of beef innovations.

“We’ve become even more productive in creating new recipes and developing innovative beef ideas,” says Wald. “This is giving us more credibility among our various audiences, and improving our ability to showcase beef at its best.”

Consumer test stoves and ranges have increased from three to four (two each of electric and gas), while commercial equipment also has been enhanced. Refrigeration space has doubled, and storage space has also been increased. While previously there was only space for one or two testers, now up to four recipe testers can be working on beef recipes at the same time.

Proud History
The kitchens already had a tremendous reputation, according to Debra Baughman, director, test kitchen services. It began at the National Live Stock and Meat Board in Chicago, which conducted recipe testing from the time the organization was established in the early 1920s until it merged with the National Cattlemen’s Association to form NCBA in 1996. NCBA continued to utilize the Chicago test kitchens until 2009. In 2010, those offices closed and beef testing was moved to the NCBA offices near Denver.

Thousands of recipes were developed during the early years to use in meat promotions throughout the country. When the Beef Industry Council of the Meat Board was established in 1963, its efforts each year relied on the work of the Meat Board Test Kitchens to assure dependable and accurate recipes that consumers and food professionals could trust.

Today, hundreds of tests are conducted to produce from 80-100 recipes every year, says Baughman, providing information for numerous beef checkoff-funded programs in new product development, retail, foodservice, consumer food public relations, as well as for requests from media, state beef councils and others.

Crucial Element
In fact, the recipe development and testing function is crucial to the overall beef marketing and promotion effort conducted through the Beef Checkoff Program, according to Cevin Jones, an Idaho cattle feeder and farmer and chair of the checkoff’s Joint Domestic Preference Committee.  “Without the ability to really connect with the consumer, recognizing their tastes and how they’re eating and what kind of equipment they’re using, we have limited ability to get them to increase their beef usage,” says Jones. “Our beef testing facilities are fundamental to that process.”

For instance, the checkoff’s new Easy Fresh Cooking® (EFC) program promotes quick and simple meal solutions to consumers at the meat case. The recipe concepts for the program are developed by the culinary team focusing on the latest trends and at least Triple Tested™ on multiple types of equipment to provide assurances they will work consistently and dependably. The equipment and ingredients used are the types that are common and popular with consumers.

Each recipe in the EFC program uses no more than six ingredients and can be prepared in 30 minutes or less. Labels featuring EFC recipes are proven to make beef easier to shop for and easier to stock.

Recipes are also provided on retail on-pack recipe labels through the checkoff-funded “Beef Made Easy” program.  About 200 million Beef Made Easy labels are distributed to retail stores annually.

Foodservice recipes, too, get attention from the beef checkoff-funded Culinary Innovations Team. Created by well-known industry chefs, the recipes are reviewed by the team’s professionals, who can ensure the recipes are practical. Recent collaborators include Tim Cushman, chef/owner of O Ya and 2012 James Beard Foundation award winner, and Steve Schimoler, chef/owner of Crop Bistro & Bar.

Recipes developed by the team show up everywhere. For example, there are more than 400 recipes on the checkoff-funded “Beef It’s What’s For Dinner” website that were developed in the kitchens. Recipes are featured in consumer advertising and consumer media, on in-store displays in grocery stores, and in national free-standing newspaper inserts that reach 30-50 million households with each insertion. Bloggers see them and use them; regional publications, newspapers and websites do, too. They are shared on Twitter and Facebook and used as food samples at events and for inspiration by independent recipe developers – and by consumers looking to experiment with something new.

At the state level, expertise from the national culinary team is also invaluable, according to Kaiti George, registered dietitian with the Nebraska Beef Council. “We use culinary center-developed recipes for blogs, ads, health professional communication and consumer education,” she says.” I am proud to be able to tell health professionals and consumers that all recipes are triple-tested. In addition, the team is always on top of the latest food trends and develops recipes that both ‘foodies’ and the everyday cook can enjoy.”

“It’s impossible to fully gauge the reach of the recipes we develop through the checkoff program,” according to Jones. “The fact is, though, recipes are what bring beef to Americans. They inspire, motivate and elevate the eating experience for beef, and have the power not only to bring out unexpected flavor, but surprise people with how beef’s great taste can be easy to prepare and good for them at the same time.”

Based on Science
That inspiration isn’t solely emotional, says Baughman. Extensive market research is conducted to make sure current food, equipment and ingredient trends are followed. An extensive “pantry study” is accessed regularly, for instance, to help the culinary team use concepts that feature the most common tastes and techniques. 

“Our work has evolved as consumers have evolved,” says Baughman, who has been doing work for the beef industry through the Beef Checkoff Program for 25 years. “We’re able to keep on top of flavor, consumer and beef industry trends. At the same time, we capture the scientific data needed to assure that all of our tests and measurements are flawless.”

Part of that scientific data involves the nutritional properties of beef. Since most recipes developed today incorporate lean beef cuts with whole grains and vegetables in sensible portions, they are easy to apply to educational materials shared with health professionals on the checkoff-funded BeefNutrition.org website and through various health events by both national program staff and state partners.

“Recipes help us communicate the nutrition information that the checkoff generates using nutrition research,” says Jeanne Harland, an Illinois cow-calf producer and chair of the Joint Nutrition and Health Subcommittee. “It puts the science into practice for both health professionals and consumers.”

According to Shenoa French, associate director of the New Product and Culinary Innovation Center, new product ideas and recipes can be showcased to industry audiences in the Centennial offices, which provides additional idea promotion and visibility to the Center. The commercially inspected and approved kitchen is sometimes also utilized by beef industry partners, giving even more opportunities for new beef ideas to reach consumers.

“We’re proud of this new space and how it will help beef producers further present their products,” says French. “Our team and its more than 70 years of collective experience can certainly better utilize its skills with these improvements.”



May Beef Month Proclamation
The Iowa Beef Industry Council is pleased to announce that May is Beef Month in Iowa.  Governor Terry E. Branstad has signed the May Beef Month proclamation in recognition of the importance of Iowa’s beef industry to the state’s economy.  The Iowa Beef Industry Council is pleased to present the following proclamation.

-  Whereas Iowa is a major beef producing state with nearly 3.85 million head of cattle on January 1, 2013; and
-  Whereas the beef industry contributes greatly to our economy by generating in excess of $5.1 billion annually, and creating jobs for nearly 40,000 Iowans; and
-  Whereas today's beef is a naturally nutrient-rich food providing protein, iron, zinc and B-vitamins; and
-  Whereas beef producers are the original environmentalists working to conserve the soil and making optimum use of natural resources; and
-  Whereas Iowa is a leader in the export of value-added agriculture products, shipping high-quality Iowa beef to other countries around the world; and
-  Whereas there is an ever-increasing need for better understanding of the benefits that the beef industry provides to all Iowans;

-  Now therefore, I, Terry E. Branstad, Governor of the State of Iowa, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2013 as Beef Month in Iowa, and urge all citizens to appreciate the contributions the beef industry continues to provide to our state.



May is Beef Month
Thoughts from an Iowa cattle farmer, Scott Niess, Osage

Beef production in the United States has a long and rich history. Cattlemen and women have played an important role in the economic and social fabric of the country; a tradition that continues today. In all 99 Iowa counties, there are over 3.85 m head of cattle that live on our 30,000 farms. The beef industry contributes to the economic health of rural communities with jobs for nearly 40,000 Iowans and provides in excess of $5.1 billion annually to our state economy.

Raising cattle is our livelihood, and caring for them throughout the year is our responsibility. We take great pride in knowing that we are stewards of the land and livestock we tend to every day to provide safe, healthy, nutritious food for your family and ours.

Like other farm families, the beef industry is committed to protecting the land and passing our family farms to the next generation. Within the beef industry, we are looking at ways of improving beef production to protect tomorrow for our future generations through a more sustainable beef industry. A sustainable beef industry is critically important as we work toward the goal of feeding 9 billion people by the year 2050, a global population explosion that will require at least 70 percent more food with few additional resources. For the beef industry, sustainability is a journey by meeting beef demand with balancing environmental responsibility, economic opportunity and social diligence throughout the entire food chain. By ensuring that these three pillars of beef production are balanced, the industry will be well positioned to continue future growth.

We are in the process of verifying results for the first-ever Beef Industry Sustainability Assessment. The assessment, which was funded by the Beef Checkoff Program, marks the first time any industry has ever measured the sustainability of its entire supply chain. This important work positions the beef industry to lead the conversations about industry sustainability.

According to the study’s findings, the beef industry has made significant improvement toward a more sustainable future over time. Raising cattle in a sustainable way always been important to the cattle industry, but this is the first opportunity we have had to use science to tell that story. Despite the current rate of progress, the beef industry’s path toward continuous progress is never-ending.

We are proud to be involved in American agriculture, which produces the most reasonably priced, safest, most nutritious food in the world while producing it in the most environmentally-sound manner. So, from our family to yours, let’s celebrate May Beef Month by enjoying a juicy, delicious steak or an All-American, mouth-watering burger!



Livestock Farmers Feeling the Pressure
H. Scott Hurd, DVM, Ph.D, Iowa State University

There are many pressures on livestock farmers today. Many of these pressures are not the typical economic and resource challenges faced by all businesses, but additional political pressures related to antibiotic use in food production.

Setting aside the politics, all scientific risk assessments published to date have shown a negligible risk to human health from resistant bacteria resulting from food animal antibiotic use.

A relatively new area of scientific inquiry is the question of whether animal health is quantitatively correlated with public health risk. Slogans promote the concept that "healthy animals make safe food" and it is a concept we all "feel" good about. However, the research is just beginning and much more is needed. One interesting study shows an increase in human illnesses from non-resistant bacteria caused by eating broiler chickens with residual effects of illness due to denial of antibiotics.

Those that argue against the use of any antibiotics in livestock raised for food should consider that animals not treated for and exhibiting residual effects of illness are more likely to cause foodborne sickness in humans.

Further, failure to prevent or treat animal illness causes unnecessary animal suffering and death. It's important to note that infectious diseases occur in both modern animal confinement facilities as well as in outdoor group housing situations.

Every farm with animals is both a maternity hospital and a day care. Animals need medicines at times, just like kids do. This becomes a moral and ethical issue. At what point will we deny treatment? It's not right to withhold veterinary care from animals. Antibiotics for animals are needed because illnesses can move quickly through populations and livestock cannot "stay home" when they are sick.

"Meat without drugs" or "antibiotic free" meat may lead to very negative consequences to animal health. In fact, meat produced without drugs may very well mean "animals without medicine."

Farmers and veterinarians are committed to maintaining the public's trust by promoting and documenting appropriate use of all medicines used for animals raised for food. Learn more at http://www.hurdhealth.com.



Pastures Weakened by Drought Will Require Time to Recover

Nebraska's pastures are starting to grow again, but the effects of last year's drought linger and might cause complications for producers, University of Nebraska-Lincoln forage specialist said.

Some might want to get their animals outside and into green fields, but drought-weakened pastures will not be able to feed these animals without sustaining further damage, said Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension forage specialist. However, there are ways to compensate for the loss and help pastures recover.

Although recent snow and rain provided moisture for pastures, the levels were still less than average. Considering the severe stress pastures experienced during last year's drought some might be dead or exhibit slow growth, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources specialist said. Damaged pastures could take another year to recover.

Pastures throughout the state, especially those with bluegrass, have gaps that allow for weeds to establish. Noxious weeds like thistle and leafy spurge, as well as woody plants like brush and red cedar trees can take advantage of the weakened pastures.

"Weeds are a natural outcome when competitive ability of the plants is lowered," Anderson said. "Weeds become more opportunistic with less competition, so it's important to get them under control while patches are still small."

In general, drought and overgrazing damaged almost all pastures last year. The plants don't begin to recover until after they have started to grow, and extra stress can slow down that process.

"Pastures might be green and growing, but their ability to handle further stress has lessened," Anderson said.

Anderson suggests waiting 10 to 14 days later to let animals out for grazing. Feeding on leftover hay or other forages from winter for this extra time will give permanent pastures much needed recovery time.

"Any permanent pasture that was really stressed last year is going to have some really weak plants in it," Anderson said. "And we've got to be careful that we don't overstress those plants early in the spring."

Planting annual forages also can help relieve some of the pressure on stressed pastures and forage supplies. The drought severely depleted hay supplies last year, so planting oats, grasses and millets can compensate for some of that problem.

"These annuals can be very productive in terms of the amount of forage they produce to rebuild that hay supply," Anderson said.

With the recent rain, Anderson thinks some pastures might hold an opportunity for fertilizer. Application will not be appropriate in all fields, but might stimulate growth in others. In pastures that have enough moisture in normal years, fertilizer will help take advantage of existing rain moisture to help pastures recover.

Producers should still be careful with grazing even if they take these precautions. Anderson warns not to overstock in stressed pastures.

"We have to keep the stocking rate conservative to give plants a chance for a lengthy, long-term recovery," he said. "They cannot be continually grazed short."



Value-Added Producer Grants Support Local Producers, Biobased Initiatives
Nebraska Receives Nearly $367,000

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the selection of 110 grants to agricultural producers and rural businesses that will help create jobs and develop new products. Nebraska received three grants totaling $367,000.  The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) remains focused on carrying out its mission, despite a time of significant budget uncertainty. Today’s announcement is one part of the Department’s efforts to strengthen the rural economy.

    In Nebraska, Burbach Countryside Dairy, Inc. of Hartington will receive a $300,000 grant to support the marketing of its locally produced fluid dairy products.  Gregory Nollette of Nenzel will use a $49,900 grant for marketing and operating costs for processing sandhills grapes into wine and selling to local markets.  This will allow the business to increase its sales by up to 10 percent annually due to the added value of its product.  Midwest Aronia Association Steering Committee with aronia berry growers throughout the Midwest received a $16,661 grant to determine the marketing plan and feasibility of aronia berry products such as aronia juice, puree and dried sweetened aronia berries.

  “This support will benefit rural businesses and the communities where the recipients are located,” Vilsack said. “These awards also will advance USDA’s goals to develop a bio-based economy and support local and regional food systems.”

   In today’s announcement, 110 awardees are being selected for USDA Rural Development Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG). The grants help agricultural producers increase their income by expanding marketing opportunities, creating new products or developing new uses for existing products.

  USDA Rural Development is funding an array of projects involving locally produced and marketed foods. These include cheese, wine, reduced-cholesterol dairy products, produce, packaged poultry, pork and beef products, and a variety of processed or prepared foods from locally grown fruits and vegetables.

  The awards announced today include 11 projects involving bio-based products.  They include grants to convert:  corn stover to anhydrous ammonia; miscanthus fiber, wood and goat manure into biochar and enhanced compost; and sorghum to electricity and fertilizer.



Farm Service Agency Announces 45th General Sign-Up for the Conservation Reserve Program

Thurston County Farm Service Agency (FSA) County Executive Director Josie Waterbury announced today that the Thurston County FSA will conduct a four-week Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) general sign-up beginning May 20 and ending on June 14. 

"It continues to be our goal to ensure that we use CRP to address our most critical resource issues," said Waterbury.  “In 2012, Nebraska experienced the worst drought in 60 years.  CRP protected environmentally sensitive lands from washing or blowing away.  It gave ranchers extra grazing land when they needed it.  I expect there will be strong competition to enroll or re-enroll acres into CRP, so I urge Thurston County producers to maximize their environmental benefits and make sure their offers are cost-effective.”  

In addition to erosion control, CRP provides significant water quality benefits including reduced nutrients and sediment loadings and adverse consequences associated with floods as well as expanded and enhanced wildlife habitat.

Currently, about 27 million acres are enrolled in CRP nationwide.  CRP is a voluntary program available to agricultural producers to help them safeguard environmentally sensitive land.  Producers enrolled in CRP plant long-term, resource-conserving covers to improve the quality of water, control soil erosion and enhance wildlife habitat.  Contracts on an estimated 3.3 million acres of CRP are set to expire on September 30, 2013.  Producers with expiring contracts or producers with environmentally sensitive land are encouraged to evaluate their options under CRP.

Producers that are accepted in the sign-up can receive cost-share assistance for planting covers and receive an annual rental payment for the length of the contract (10 to 15 years).  Producers also are encouraged to look into CRP’s other enrollment opportunities offered on a continuous, non-competitive, sign-up basis.  Continuous sign-ups often provide additional financial assistance.  Those sign-up dates will be announced later.

For more information on CRP and other FSA programs, visit your local FSA county office or www.fsa.usda.gov. 



Taxpayers Paid $7 Billion Too Much for Crop Insurance Last Year
(from ewg.org)

A new analysis commissioned by the Environmental Working Group debunks the myth that federally-subsidized crop insurance will save taxpayers money and protect farmers from crippling losses when natural disasters occur.

The study, by agricultural economist Bruce Babcock of Iowa State University, has concluded that during last year’s drought, crop insurance payouts will exceed $16 billion, almost 50 percent more than 2011.

“Crop insurance as it is currently structured and marketed is a bloated, taxpayer-funded income support program that in many cases allows growers, particularly the industrial-scale operations that have been enjoying record profits, to make more money from insurance payouts than they would from a healthy harvest,” Babcock writes.

He determined that corn and soybean farmers could have been compensated for their actual economic losses at a cost of around $6 billion.  Instead, taxpayers forked over $12.7 billion.  

His analysis shows that because of lavish taxpayer subsidies, farmers have extraordinary incentives to over-insure their crops and dramatically drive up the cost of crop insurance when disaster strikes. Farmers covered by the so-called Revenue Protection policy -- the most highly subsidized policy in the areas hardest hit by the drought – likely netted more revenue than they would have if the drought hadn’t occurred.

“The point is not to argue that the drought did not seriously affect crop yields,” Babcock writes. “Clearly it did. But given the high cost of the crop insurance program, it is reasonable to ask whether it makes any sense to entice farmers to buy Cadillac coverage with taxpayer dollars when a basic revenue guarantee is possible at much lower cost.”

Taxpayers lose two ways.  They spend too much to buy crop insurance policies for farmers.  And they suffer from the skewed way underwriting gains and losses are shared between the federal government and private crop insurance companies. Since 2001, insurance companies have enjoyed $10.3 billion in underwriting gains – while taxpayers have suffered a net loss of $276 million.

“This analysis should be a wake-up call for taxpayers and the lawmakers in Washington under serious pressure to cut spending.” said Craig Cox, EWG’s senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources. “It adds to the large body of evidence that common sense reforms to the crop insurance program would save billions of dollars while still providing a solid safety net, cutting the deficit, and investing in programs that improve the environment and public health.”

If the farm bills proposed by the Senate or House agriculture committees last year were to become law, taxpayers would be asked to pay even more for crop insurance.  At the same time, those proposals would slash funding for conservation and nutrition programs. 

"So far the subsidy lobby has managed to push Congress in the wrong direction,” said Cox. “Congress should and could do far better as it takes up this critical food and farm legislation again this year.”



Weekly Ethanol Production for 4/26/2013

According to EIA data, ethanol production averaged 857,000 barrels per day (b/d) — or 35.99 million gallons daily. That is up 4,000 b/d from the week before and the highest rate of output this year. The four-week average for ethanol production stood at 849,000 b/d for an annualized rate of 13.02 billion gallons.

Stocks of ethanol stood at 17.0 million barrels. That is a 3.2% decrease from last week and the lowest of the year.

Imports of ethanol showed zero b/d, down from last week.

Gasoline demand for the week averaged 353.4 million gallons daily.

Expressed as a percentage of daily gasoline demand, daily ethanol production was 10.18%.

On the co-products side, ethanol producers were using 12.994 million bushels of corn to produce ethanol and 95,644 metric tons of livestock feed, 85,267 metric tons of which were distillers grains. The rest is comprised of corn gluten feed and corn gluten meal. Additionally, ethanol producers were providing 4.46 million pounds of corn oil daily.



Livestock and Poultry Groups Provide Comments on Negative Impact of the RFS

Seven livestock and poultry groups submitted comments to the House Energy and Commerce Committee on the negative effects the federal Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) has had on agriculture, including the high cost of feed facing livestock and poultry producers. The comments answer several questions posed by the committee on the impact of the RFS.

“The RFS has been the major driver in increasing corn use for ethanol production, and causing corn stocks to decline to crisis levels,” the comments state. “In a market-driven world, ethanol would be priced competitively with gasoline. That has never been true in the entire history of the industry.”

Additionally, the groups submitted a study to support their comments titled “The RFS, Fuel and Food Prices, and the Need for Reform” completed by Dr. Tom Elam of FarmEcon. The study examined the extensive impact the RFS has had on food and fuel prices.

The groups appreciate the work of the committee in seeking input from our producers and look forward to working with the committee on reforming the RFS.

The comments and study were submitted on behalf of:
American Meat Institute
American Sheep Industry Association
Milk Producers Council
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
National Pork Producers Council
National Turkey Federation
North American Meat Association

The documents were presented to Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-Mich.), and Ranking Member Henry Waxman (D-Calif.).



National Grange fights against estate tax by filing brief

The National Grange filed an amicus brief Monday in opposition to the estate tax and a recent court decision in which defendants were ordered to pay more in inheritance taxes than what the inherited property was worth.

United States v. MacIntyre, heard by the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division, has presented the question: Does the law permit the government to collect more from a donee than the value of the gift received?

The Grange, along with the National Black Chamber of Commerce who initiated the action, and the Sixty Plus Association, the Taxpayers Protection Alliance, and the Center for Individual Freedom, have responded with a resounding "no," insisting that the government's pursuance of such funds amounts to little more than greed.

"The Grange has long been an opponent of the estate tax. It does nothing but prevent the American dream from becoming a reality," National Grange President Edward Luttrell said. "Farmers and ranchers all over the country have worked their entire lives in order to leave their children something substantial that could be passed on to future generations and the inheritance tax does nothing but work to destroy that legacy."

"So many multi-generational farms and ranches have been lost because of the inheritor's inability to pay the estate tax on the property. The original owners already worked to pay off this land so their children would be land owners able to support continued operations or realize the investment of ownership," National Grange Legislative Director Grace Boatright said.

The amicus brief will be put on the record and allows the voices of farmers, ranchers, and other landowners to be heard. 



Alltech Analyzes 1,000th Feed Sample

If you can’t see them, they must not be there.  That was the old school of thought on mold and mycotoxins being present in our livestock’s feed supply. Today, after three decades of research and recent advances in the field of mycotoxin testing, we can now detect more than 37 different types of mycotoxins, and many producers around the globe are taking heed and getting their feed tested.

Established in September 2012, the Analytical Services Laboratory powered by Alltech  recently processed their 1,000th feed sample. The lab, which utilizes LC-MS/MS analytical technology, has allowed Alltech to gain valuable insights into mycotoxin levels and trends globally with unrivalled specificity, sensitivity and breadth.

Alltech’s 37+ Program provides a tailored, species-specific risk assessment of the expected impact on animal performance based on the mycotoxins that are found during analysis. It then recommends a mitigation strategy through balanced nutrition, feed management and the addition of functional carbohydrates.

“The most significant aspect of this milestone is the quality of data we have accumulated. Virtually 100 percent of the feed samples analyzed worldwide contain multiple mycotoxins. Individual mycotoxin levels detected by methods with less specificity and sensitivity than the technologies we use may not always identify the source of poor animal health,” said Steve Mobley, manager of the Analytical Services Laboratory, powered by Alltech.

“However, the cumulative, additive and/or synergistic affects of multiple mycotoxins in the diet, regardless of guideline or regulatory levels, can result in mycotoxicosis symptoms and detrimental erosion of animal productivity,” said Dr. Max Hawkins, Alltech Mycotoxin Management Team. “The need to detect and quantify multiple mycotoxins at low levels should be the industry’s key concern and, from the tremendous response to Alltech’s 37+ Program, I believe the industry is taking heed.”



USDA Announces Commodity Credit Corporation Lending Rates for May 2013

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) today announced interest rates for May 2013. The CCC borrowing rate-based charge for May 2013 is 0.125 percent, unchanged from 0.125 in April 2013. For 1996 and subsequent crop year commodity and marketing assistance loans, the interest rate for loans disbursed during May 2013 is 1.125 percent, unchanged from 1.125 in April 2013.

Interest rates for Farm Storage Facility Loans approved for May 2013 are as follows, 1.250 percent with seven-year loan terms, down from 1.375 in April 2013; 1.875 percent with 10-year loan terms, down from 2.000 in April 2013 and; 2.125 percent with 12-year loan terms, down from 2.250 percent in April 2013.



Conservation Stewardship Program Applications Due by May 31

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that the Natural Resources Conservation Service's Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) will provide nearly $175 million in funding for up to 12.6 million additional acres of enrollment this year.

"The Conservation Stewardship Program is different than other USDA financial assistance programs," said Vilsack. "CSP offers payments to producers who maintain a high level of conservation on their land and agree to adopt higher levels of stewardship. It's about conservation activities on the entire operation focusing on multiple resource concerns."

Vilsack explained that although applications are accepted all year, farmers, ranchers and forestland owners interested in CSP should submit applications by May 31 to their local NRCS office to ensure they are considered for this year's funding.

The voluntary program allows producers to go the extra mile in conserving natural resources while also maintaining or increasing the productivity of their operations.

Playing a significant part in conserving and improving our nation's resources, producers enrolled an additional 12.1 million acres in CSP last year, bringing the total number of acres to more than 50 million.

Many of the CSP enhancements improve soil quality, which helps land become more resilient to extreme weather.

Several other improvements are available for producers, including intensive rotational grazing, intercropping and wildlife friendly fencing.

Because of the extreme weather in 2012, more interest and participation in the cover crop enhancements is expected this year, according to NRCS experts.

A CSP self-screening checklist is available to help producers determine if the program is suitable for their operation. The checklist highlights basic information about CSP eligibility requirements, stewardship threshold requirements and payment types.

For the checklist and additional information, visit the CSP website (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/financial/csp/) or visit your local USDA NRCS office.



USDA Announces Funding to Improve Rural Broadband in Nebraska and Montana

   Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced funding for two rural telecommunications companies that will expand broadband service in rural Nebraska and Montana.  The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) remains focused on carrying out its mission, despite a time of significant budget uncertainty. Today’s announcement is one part of the Department’s efforts to strengthen the rural economy.

    In Nebraska, Hartington Telecommunications Co., Inc, an RUS borrower since 1956, will use a $5.265 million loan to replace copper cable with Fiber-to-the-Home technology to serve customers with a state-of-the-art telecommunications system.  The new system will require replacing rural drops with fiber cables and installing new optical interfaces at each subscriber location.  A large number of digital loop carrier (DLC) sites will be retired or converted into optical nodes, increasing system reliability due to a reduction in grid powered sites.  The company has had previous RUS loans totaling more than $8 million.

InterBel Telephone Cooperative, Inc., in Montana, will receive a $20.8 million loan to complete a Fiber-to-the-Premises network to help meet future growth requirements.   USDA funding is contingent upon the recipient meeting the terms of the loan agreement.

   “These loans will provide the necessary telecommunications infrastructure essential for rural economic development,” Vilsack said.  “Broadband offers rural communities greater access to educational, health care, business and social services and opens the door to increased global competition.  As part of President Obama’s goal to improve infrastructure, we continue to fund projects that expand broadband service in rural areas.”

   Today’s funding announcement will provide more than $26 million from USDA’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS), a Rural Development agency, to install fiber networks to improve telecommunications services in these areas.



Attendees Learn How to Interact with Online Moms
Industry Encouraged to 'Get Social' at Animal Ag Summit

 “We don’t need them to understand us, we need to understand them,” said Joe Miller, General Counsel for Rose Acre Farms of consumers at the Animal Agriculture Alliance 12th annual Stakeholders Summit which kicked off this morning in Arlington, VA.

The theme of improving communications throughout the food chain was reinforced frequently throughout the morning panels, which is perhaps ironic, given that one of the first speakers was discussing farm protection legislation, or as it is more commonly known, “ag gag.”

Miller began his presentation by providing an overview of the controversy surrounding farm protection legislation, but ended by discussing how the industry must better understand consumers, rather than the other way around.

“The public needs to know they can trust us,” said Miller. “We need to close the gap between a producer and a consumer.”

Miller’s presentation was closely followed by the panel entitled, “Demystifying the Blogosphere: How to Engage Online Moms,” where two influential bloggers, Joanne Bamberger and Sarah Braesch actively engaged with the audience and answered questions about how to effectively work with online moms.

The panel was moderated in part by David Wescott, Director of Digital Strategy at APCO Worldwide.

“I’m here to give you a bit of a reality check,” began Wescott who told the industry that they must do better at connecting with the “middle ground,” their consumers. “Social media has been isolating communities more and more and those communities tend to take very extreme positions and it becomes harder and harder for those communities to interact.”

When asked by an audience member if there is a verifiable “middle ground,” Wescott, Bamberger and Braesch all agreed that there is, and it’s online moms.

“Women, your consumers, are getting their information from bloggers that they know and trust,” said Bamberger. “There are really good conversational ways to get your message out to that audience, you just need to put in the effort and develop the relationships.

Explained Wescott, social media isn’t complicated: “It’s about people talking. Keep it simple: know who your stakeholders really are, ask them what they want, and then give it to them.”

The 12th annual Stakeholders Summit, themed “Activists at the Door: Protecting Animals, Farms, Food and Consumer Confidence,” began May 1, 2013 in Arlington, Virginia. The audience included approximately 200 leaders from across the food chain. Complete videos of all presentations, including the questions asked, are available here.

Event sponsors currently include Alltech, U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, Murphy-Brown LLC, Farm Credit, Provimi North America, Merck Animal Health, Zoetis, Hy-Line,  American Feed Industry Association, Bayer Animal Health, United Soybean Board, Alltech, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Pork Board, National Pork Producers Council, Diamond V, Aviagen, Genus/PIC/ABS, United Egg Producers, WATTPublishing Co., Cactus Feeders, BrakkeConsulting, Kemin,  AgriBeef Co., Seaboard Foods, National Association of Farm Broadcasting, Protect the Harvest, Elanco Animal Health, Vance Publishing and the Potash Corp.



Soybean Executive Named CEO of NAWG

Longtime soybean industry executive Jim Palmer has been named chief executive officer of the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG).

Palmer was selected by the NAWG Board of Directors after a search process led by the NAWG officers and grower-leaders of the National Wheat Foundation, NAWG’s affiliated charitable organization.

He will officially begin work with the Association and Foundation as of June 1, though he plans to meet with NAWG’s grower-leaders and staff throughout the month of May.

“Our farmer-leaders were very impressed with Jim’s experience and vision for the wheat industry, and we are excited to have him take the lead on the NAWG staff,” said Bing Von Bergen, NAWG’s president and a farmer from Moccasin, Mont., who has also served as NAWG’s interim CEO since late February.

“We are confident that under Jim’s leadership, NAWG will be able to face the challenges we have before us now in Washington and grow our industry well into the future.”

Palmer has worked in administrative roles for national and state agriculture organizations for the past 30 years, most of that time in the soybean industry.

From 1997 until early 2012, he worked as the executive director for the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association and the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council.

Earlier in his career, he was engaged in commercial agriculture credit and was the staff lead during the development of the United Soybean Board, the national soybean checkoff. 

Since leaving Minnesota Soybean, he has worked as an independent management and development consultant with agriculture companies around the United States.

“I am extremely proud to be selected to serve as NAWG’s next CEO,” Palmer said. “The future will be bright for our wheat farmers working together, partnering with NAWG’s strong state organizations and our industry agribusiness friends, as well as other farm organizations. The bottom line is, I’m so eager to take on this new role at NAWG that I’ve mentally started already.”

Palmer grew up on a large, multi-generational family farm in northeast Missouri, near Hannibal. He attended the University of Missouri-Columbia, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics as part of an honors program that also conferred graduate credits.



World Dairy Expo Announces New General Manager

World Dairy Expo is pleased to announce Scott Bentley as the new General Manager effective June 3, 2013. Bentley brings a wealth of industry experience to Expo. Most recently he was the Global Supply Manager at ABS Global, DeForest, Wis., and previously held positions as Global Dairy Product Manager, District Sales Manager and in Dairy Sire Acquisition. Prior to that, Bentley was Field Service Manager at the American Jersey Cattle Association.

In his new role, Bentley will lead World Dairy Expo staff in the strategic planning and implementation of the largest dairy-focused event in the world. He will be responsible for developing innovative initiatives and cultivating partner relationships. As General Manager, Bentley will oversee the responsibilities of WDE Management, including the North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge, Purebred Dairy Cattle Association, The Dane County Fair and Wisconsin Rural Opportunities Foundation. 

“The board is excited that our new General Manager has varied experience in the dairy industry including dairy cattle show management, commercial trade show and business management,” shared World Dairy Expo Board President, Mike Holschbach. “Bentley has experience working with dairy producers and management teams in both corporate and cooperative environments. His understanding of working collaboratively with dairy producers, exhibitors and industry partners will be helpful as we continue to grow and evolve Expo.”

Bentley possesses a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Purdue University. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Dairy Science from Iowa State University. Bentley grew up on a Guernsey farm in Ames, Iowa and now resides in Madison, Wis.

Interim General Manager, Bob Kaiser noted, “The interview selection committee had a deep pool of qualified applicants. The process stayed on schedule, with the new General Manager positioned to begin in early June as planned.”

“Center of the Dairy Universe” is the theme for World Dairy Expo 2013, which will take place October 1 through October 5 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wis. Visit worlddairyexpo.com for the latest schedule details or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/worlddairyexpo.



AGCO Raises Earnings Forecast

Agco Corp, the maker of Massey Ferguson tractors, raised its full-year outlook after strong demand in the Americas helped push its first-quarter results above Wall Street estimates.

The company, which also makes Challenger Fendt and Valtra tractors, raised its per-share 2013 earnings forecast for 2013 to $5.50-$5.70 from $5.10-$5.35 and its sales forecast by $300 million to $10.5 billion to $10.7 billion, reports Reuters.

"Industry demand in North America continues at high levels, driven by strong farm income in 2012," Agco Chief Executive Martin Richenhagen said in a statement. "Farmer planting intentions are near record levels."

A year after the worst drought in more than half a century, farmers in the United States are expected to plant corn this year on 97.3 million acres, the biggest area since 1936, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has said.

North and South America together accounted for about 45 percent of Agco's sales in the first quarter.

The company said its revenue rose 5.7 percent to $2.40 billion during the quarter ended March. Excluding currency impact, sales were up about 8.4 percent. Net income fell slightly to $117.1 million, or $1.19 per share, from $121.2 million, or $1.21 per share, a year earlier.



ICE to Reduce Grain Trading Hours

IntercontinentalExchange said that it will reduce its electronic U.S. grain trading hours in response to customer feedback, following in the footsteps of arch-rival CME Group. ICE launched grain trading on a 22-hour basis a year ago, mounting the biggest challenge yet to CME's cornerstone agricultural markets. In response, CME, owner of the Chicago Board of Trade, increased trading to 21 hours from 17 hours.

However, neither exchange was able to generate enough interest in around-the-clock activity. Reuters reports that starting May 13, trading at ICE will begin the week at 5 p.m. central time on Sunday and run to 1:30 p.m. central time on Monday, according to a notice from the exchange. For the rest of the work week, markets for crops like corn, wheat and soy will trade from 7 p.m. until 1:30 p.m central, the notice said.



Cast a Vote Today to Select the 2013 National “Farm Mom of the Year”

From Alaska to Florida, Maine to Hawaii, you took the time to share what makes your favorite farm mom so special. Now, American Agri-Women and Monsanto have selected five regional winners.  Your vote will help determine this year’s national winner, to be announced on Mother’s Day.

Each regional winner was awarded a $5,000 cash prize from Monsanto. Online votes cast on AmericasFarmers.com before May 12 – Mother’s Day – will determine the winner of the national title and recipient of an additional $5,000 prize.

The 2013 regional winners are:
    Northwest Region: Aimee Hachigian-Gould, Ulm, Mont.
    Southwest Region: Mary Ann Bansen, Ferndale, Calif.
    Midwest Region: Tina Hinchley, Cambridge, Wis.
    Northeast Region: Sue Roehm, Leesburg, Ohio.
    Southeast Region: Betty Rosson, Louisa, Va.

“Reading regional winners’ nominations, it’s clear that no matter what and where they farm, farm moms work tirelessly to improve not only their farming operations and communities, but perceptions of agriculture in general,” says Lisa Safarian, U.S. Row Crops Lead, Monsanto. “While we may not say it as often as we should, we all love and appreciate this nation’s farm moms!”

Regional winners’ bios and nominations are posted on www.AmericasFarmers.com, where visitors can click to cast a vote for their favorite. The farm mom receiving the most votes will be named the national winner, to be announced on Mother’s Day.

Blind judging was spearheaded by American Agri-Women, a national coalition of women’s farm, ranch and agribusiness organizations. Each nomination was scored for how the nominee contributes to her farm, family, community, and the agricultural industry.

“This year’s nominees collectively farm more than 40 different crops, and their roles on their farms and within their communities are equally diverse,” says Kris Zilliox of the American Agri-Women. “Selecting just five winners was no small feat, but these five women are outstanding representations of American farm moms.”

To obtain a list of winners, read past or present winner nominations, or see official rules for America’s Farmers Mom of the Year, visit www.AmericasFarmers.com or send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to America’s Farmers Mom of the Year, Attn: Nancy Hallahan, 914 Spruce Street, St. Louis, MO 63102.

America’s Farmers Mom of the Year is an element of Monsanto’s America’s Farmers program, an advocacy effort promoting, recognizing and supporting U.S. farmers through communications, awards and special programs that highlight the importance of agriculture. Visit AmericasFarmers.com for more information.

Forage and Pastures Still Weak Despite Rains
Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension Forage Specialist

In early April our pasture and forage management plans were focused strictly on drought, both how last year affected our grazing and hay lands and what to do this year as it looked like we'd be starting the season dry. With recent moisture, it's easy to put drought concerns behind us, but avoid the temptation.

Plants were weak going into winter and many pastures sustained significant damage that will require years to repair. Plants will start to grow now that they have some moisture, but they still are weak. Grazing too soon will weaken them even more, causing slow regrowth, lower carrying capacity, and maybe even some plant death. Continue to follow plans to turn out livestock 10-14 days later than normal to give these plants a chance to recover some strength before stressing them with grazing.

This temptation to start grazing too early has been increased due to unusually cold temperatures in April (see. Many fields were planted with rye, triticale, or wheat last fall with plans to get some early grazing. This spring some oats were planted early, and some still need to be planted for grazing in mid-May or cutting in mid-June. This early grazing is not going to happen. There still is reasonable hope that good hay yields might be available, and even quite a bit a grazing, but the timing will be much later than we expected.

Prospects for hay yields have increased following recent rains, but don’t get lulled into thinking we are free from the affects of the drought. Summer rains will be needed. There is a long season ahead, and as last year showed, it can turn awfully dry awfully quickly.

Next Options After Rain Delays Alfalfa Planting
A wet spring may have prevented you from planting alfalfa yet and now it's time to jump into corn planting.

Normally in Nebraska we recommend that alfalfa be planted by mid-May on dryland sites or late May under irrigation. Planting later greatly increases the risk of hot, dry, windy weather killing new seedlings before they have enough root system to support the moisture needs of plants.

This spring planting by these deadlines may be difficult. If you're faced with a short planting window, consider these options.

No-till seeding. Crop residues of corn, milo, beans, and small grains are not a problem for most drills, but ridges along the rows can make the field too rough for comfortable hay-making.

Postemergence Weed Control. Weeds can be controlled post-emerge using herbicides like Poast Plus or Select for grasses and Buctril, Pursuit, Raptor, or Butyrac for broadleaves. Roundup, of course, can be used with tolerant varieties. Mowing also helps. If weeds are already present at planting, a burndown spray of Roundup or Gramoxone may be needed.

If planting is delayed further, consider waiting until August to seed alfalfa rather than seeding just before hot weather.

Summer annual grasses like sorghum-sudan hybrids and foxtail millet are good choices but little seed remains available. Bin-run corn might be possible if planted real thick in narrow rows. Berseem clover, any of the summer annual grasses, or even soybeans for hay could be used if you decide to wait a full year before trying to plant again next spring. Choose quickly, though, so you don't miss chances to plant.



CLAAS reflects on first 100 years of innovations
Over the last century, CLAAS has evolved from a small manufacturer of straw binders into a global leader of agricultural implement innovations.

August Claas founded the company in 1913 in Germany, and was soon joined by his three brothers – Bernhard, Franz Jr. and Theo -- to form the company “Gerbuder Claas.” In 1921, the “knotter” was patented as a device designed to create perfect knots. Over the next 90 years, the knotter would go on to become the hallmark of CLAAS.

Later in the decade, the company expanded to the fertilizer spreader before being persuaded to explore the combine harvester market. Manufacturing of combines began in 1936 and has become a staple of CLAAS. Since the first combine rolled off the line, CLAAS has sold over 440,000 units worldwide. In fact, the 450,000th combine is scheduled to drive off the LEXION production line in Omaha, Nebraska in the Spring of 2013.

As productivity and demand grew, CLAAS expanded beyond the borders of Germany. In 1958, a plant was constructed in Metz, France, to produce balers; the first reciprocating plunger balers were built in 1961, and the first sliding plunger balers were manufactured in 1967. Over 280,000 balers have been assembled at the Metz facility in the last six decades.

CLAAS also took a step in tractor development with the 2003 major acquisition of French manufacturer Renault Agriculture. In 2008 CLAAS fully purchased Renault and the French workforce accounts for nearly a third of all CLAAS employees.

While European expansion was taking place, CLAAS was also focusing on reaching the American market. CLAAS of America was founded as an import and distribution firm in 1979 in Columbus, Ind. The company quickly became a market leader in the sales and services of the JAGUAR forage harvester. During the late 1990s, a new factory for the production of LEXION combine harvesters was built in Omaha, Neb. Here, the largest capacity, most efficient combines in the world roll off the line in yellow and black paint.

Today, CLAAS maintains 11 production facilities around the globe. Along with four facilities in Germany, the seven global plants are spread out from Hungary to India and from Argentina to Russia. All told, CLAAS employs more than 9,000 workers worldwide.

Under the guidance of second- and third-generation CLAAS family members, Helmut Claas and his daughter Cathrina Claas-Muhlhauser, the company has stayed true to its roots as a family-run business. They have seen CLAAS become the fourth-largest agricultural equipment manufacturer in the world and the global market leader in the production of self-propelled forage harvesters.

As CLAAS enters its 100th year as a family-owned agricultural manufacturer, the company is releasing a book chronicling the past century of innovation. Titled “100 Years of Harvesting Excellence”, the book contains nearly 400 pages on the history of CLAAS. The book is currently available on deliusklasing.com, and will be available in bookstores this spring.



Green Plains Reports First Quarter 2013 Financial Results

Green Plains Renewable Energy, Inc. announced today its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2013. Net income attributable to Green Plains for the quarter was $2.6 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, compared to a net loss of ($12.7) million, or ($0.39) per diluted share, for the same period in 2012. The first quarter of 2012 included a one-time charge of $2.4 million, after tax, or $0.08 per share, as a result of a legal settlement. Revenues were $765.5 million for the first quarter of 2013 compared to $775.4 million for the same period in 2012.

"We achieved a significant improvement in our financial performance for the first quarter of 2013 compared to last year," stated Todd Becker, President and Chief Executive Officer. "The benefits of our multi-year diversification strategy, combined with operational excellence and risk management were all factors that contributed to the positive results, with nearly a $24 million increase in operating income year over year."

Green Plains' ethanol production segment produced and sold approximately 170 million gallons of ethanol, or approximately 92 percent of the Company's production capacity. Non-ethanol operating income, from the corn oil production, agribusiness, and marketing and distribution segments, was a record $21.2 million in the first quarter of 2013 compared to $9.0 million for the same period in 2012.

"We continued to strengthen our balance sheet with total payments of $38.6 million on our term debt while maintaining a cash balance of more than $241 million. With an improving margin environment, we are well positioned to take advantage of our financial flexibility to further grow our businesses," said Becker.

"Ethanol margins have improved as industry production levels have rationalized and inventories have been drawn down steadily over the last several months. We expect our second quarter earnings will show further improvement compared to the first quarter of 2013. We will maintain our risk management discipline and continue to focus on locking positive forward margins. Our objective to generate $60 million of non-ethanol operating income in 2013 is on track," commented Becker.

First quarter 2013 EBITDA, which is defined as earnings before interest, income taxes, noncontrolling interests, depreciation and amortization, was $24.8 million compared to $1.5 million for the same period in 2012. Green Plains had $241.6 million in total cash and equivalents and $107.0 million available under committed loan agreements at subsidiaries (subject to satisfaction of specified lending conditions and covenants) at March 31, 2013.



Pig Stress Syndrome Linked to Gene Defect

A defect in a gene called dystrophin is the cause of a newly discovered stress syndrome in pigs, U.S. Department of Agriculture scientists have found.

Stress-related issues like transportation cost the US swine industry an estimated $50 million a year. Producers as well as researchers have long suspected that undetected stress-related syndromes are affecting the health and well-being of pigs.

This notion was confirmed when scientists at the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Roman L. Hruska US Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay Center, Nebraska, discovered a stress syndrome in two 3-month-old male siblings that died after being transported from one facility to another. The novel syndrome is different than the classical porcine stress syndrome, which was eliminated from US swine herds years ago.

Molecular biologist Dan Nonneman and his colleagues in the USMARC Reproduction Research Unit mapped the stress disorder to a genetic mutation in dystrophin. Mutations in dystrophin, which cause "Duchenne muscular dystrophy” are associated with muscle weakness that can lead to death.

To map the disease, scientists re-mated the original parents of the affected siblings to produce additional litters. The 250 offspring, which included 49 affected piglets, were genotyped, and one chromosomal region containing the dystrophin gene was associated with the syndrome.

Piglets affected by the syndrome had an abnormal heart rate when treated with an anesthesia and monitored. The heart rate of unaffected pigs undergoing the same treatments remained steady.



Nebraska Cattlemen and Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition Team Up to Host Summer Grazing Tour

Mark your calendars for the Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) - Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition (NGLC) joint Summer Grazing Tour scheduled for June 11, 2013 in the southeastern Nebraska Sandhills.  The tour will involve four long standing Sandhills ranches northwest of Burwell including the Gracie Creek Ranch; the Shovel Dot Ranch; the Twin Creek Ranch, and UNL grazing research on the Barta Brothers Ranch.

Gracie Creek Ranch is a commercial beef operation managed by the Bob Price Family, and is located in the eastern Sandhills near Burwell, Nebraska. This is a family operation including Bob, son Aaron and daughter Lindsey and her husband Clayton Smith. The ranch’s main production goal is to promote grassland conservation through a profitable planned grazing system that allows for optimum levels of production and environmental services. To reach this goal, a year-round planned grazing system is implemented, supplementing when needed, and minimizing harvest feed demand. The ranch strives for management simplicity and production flexibility to account for climate and market volatility. The Price Family firmly believes conservation and agricultural production practices can be integrated, profitable, and sustainable for future generations. Conservation practices abound on the operation, and the entire ranch was recently enrolled in the USDA’s Farm and Ranch Land Protection Program.

The Buell Family first took roots in the Nebraska Sandhills when Benjamin Franklin Buell homesteaded in Southern Rock County in 1882.  Since that time each generation has worked to preserve and maintain the unique landscape of the Sandhills while at the same time running a profitable ranch.  The fourth generation, Larry and Homer and their families operated the Shovel Dot Ranch as a partnership for over 30 years but in 2009, to facilitate the generational transfer of the ranch, they separated.  At the present Homer, his wife Darla, and son Chad and his wife Tricia operate the Shovel Dot Ranch while Larry and his wife Nick operate the Twin Creek Ranch along with their son-in-law Kelby and daughter Devon. Each ranch, using about 15,000 acres, is a cow calf, backgrounding, yearling operation with management of native grasses of paramount importance.  Homer and his brother Larry, starting back in the 1970s, were always quick to adopt new ideas and technology. The Grazing Manager software program is just one of the tools that they use to set up grazing plans and monitor affects on range health over time.  Other technology like Palm Pilots, Quickbooks accounting software, EID, Cow Calf 5, and AI all contribute to managing both the land and the cattle well. As stewards of the land rotational grazing, cross fencing, water pipelines, calving later, winter grazing, and close monitoring of pasture use and production have all helped to improve the quality and quantity of the native grasses. The Buell Family is proud to have the fifth generation working the land with profitable cattle ranches.  One of the goals of each generation has been to pass along a heritage that runs deep with love for the Nebraska Sandhills, its gently rolling prairies, and its landscape bubbling with life which has continued for 130 years.

Barta Brothers Ranch was gifted to the University of Nebraska Foundation in 1992 by Clifford and Jimmy Barta.  Research trials were started in 1998 on the 5,300 acre ranch resulting in eleven M.S. and eight PhD’s thus far. Some of the trials that have been conducted include:
-    Long term grazing study (10 years)
-    4- vs 8-pasture rotation system
-    Supplementing yearling steers wet distiller’s grain on native range and feedlot performance
-    Finishing yearling heifers on grass with a self-feeder
-    Lead plant utilization by beef cows
-    Bio complexity study
-    Sand dune re-stabilization
-    Fly control trials
-    Cedar tree wind break renovation
-    Prairie chicken habitat & mallard duck nesting study 

Current studies include:
-    Above ground plant production by topographic positioning since 1999
-    Plant and soil response to stocking rate and grazing period length
-    Plant, soil and yearling weight response to grazing systems(including mob grazing )on sub irrigated meadow
-    Effect of grazing period length (number of moves/day) on harvest efficiency and trampled vegetation
-    Timing of rainfall events on herbage production under drought conditions
-    Effect of pasture shape on harvest efficiency & trampled vegetation.

Do not miss this opportunity to learn from some of the most progressive grazers in Nebraska as they relate their unique incorporation of grazing techniques and time tested managerial practices that make their operations work. Box lunches will be provided for consumption en route between stops. The day concludes with an evening steak dinner at the Barta Brothers Ranch featuring a panel discussion of the owners from the tour stops and UNL grazing researchers. Come and learn more about the activities of the NGLC and NC. Registration fee is $15 per person and preregistration is required for meal counts by contacting Ron Bolze, NGLC Coordinator or by June 3... ron@nebraskagrazinglands.org. 



ISU Seeks Livestock Producers’ Input for Ethanol Coproducts Survey

Iowa State University is conducting a nationwide survey of livestock producers’ use of feed-related coproducts from ethanol production.

“The feedback gained from the survey will be used to help improve coproduct quality, which can help livestock producers with their feed costs and livestock performance,” said Kurt Rosentrater, a professor of agricultural and biosystems engineering, who is leading the effort.

The survey is focused on the beef, dairy, swine and poultry sectors. It is being funded by a coalition consisting of the Renewable Fuels Association, the Distillers Grains Technology Council, and the Corn Utilization Councils from Iowa, Illinois and Nebraska.

Livestock producers are invited to take the survey online until June 19 at: http://humansciences.ethanolcoproducts.sgizmo.com/s3/



Compliance Deadline for EPA Oil Spill Prevention Rule Fast Approaching

The National Corn Growers Association reminds farmers that the compliance date for the Environmental Protection Agency's Oil Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure rule is May 10, 2013. By that time, farmers subject to the rule must prepare and implement an SPCC plan. Farmers who already have such a plan in place must maintain that plan.

The SPCC rule regulates farms that meet all three of the following criteria:
-    The farm stores, transfers, uses or consumes oil or oil products, such as diesel fuel, gasoline, lube oil, hydraulic oil, adjuvant oil, crop oil, vegetable oil or animal fat.
-    The farm stores more than 1,320 U.S. gallons of the aforementioned products in above ground containers or more than 42,000 U.S. gallons in completely buried containers.
-    The farm could reasonably be expected to discharge oil to waters of the United States or adjoining shorelines.

A farmer must only count containers of oil that have a storage capacity of 55 U.S. gallons or more. Milk and milk product containers and associated piping and appurtenances; home heating oil tanks at single family homes; pesticide containers used to mix and load formulations; and pesticide application equipment are exempted from the SPCC rule.

Farmers who do not have a plan should prepare one and implementing it by the May 10 deadline. If a farm has a storage capacity of more than 10,000 gallons or has had an oil spill, the plan may need to have the plan certified by a Professional Engineer. If a farm has total on-farm storage capacity between 1,320 and 10,000 gallons in above ground containers, no container with greater than 5,000 gallon capacity, and has a good spill history, the farmer may prepare and self-certify his or her own plan.

Plan must include the contents and locations of oil containers at the farm, the procedures and methods used to prevent spills, measures installed to prevent the oil from reaching waters in the event of a spill, measures to be used in the event of a spill and a list of emergency contacts and first responders if a spill occurs. Plans must be kept up to date, especially if modifications are made, and must be reviewed every five years.

If a farm meets the above criteria and is subject to the SPCC rule, it is important to review additional information and seek assistance if needed. The EPA website which offers this information can be accessed by clicking here... http://www.epa.gov/osweroe1/content/spcc/spcc_ag.htm.  Notably, it also includes links to templates for plans.

Please click here (http://www.ncga.com/upload/files/documents/pdf/EPAs%20SPCC%20three%20step%20guide.pdf) for a one-page guide, published by EPA, that offers assistance in determining if an operation is covered by the SPCC regulation and the steps necessary to ensure compliance with SPCC regulations.



April Farm Prices Received Index Decreased 12 Points

The preliminary All Farm Products Index of Prices Received by Farmers in April, at 189 percent, based on 1990-1992=100, decreased 12 points (6.0 percent) from March. The Crop Index is down 21 points (8.8 percent) and the Livestock Index decreased 1 point (0.6 percent). Producers received higher prices for hogs, milk, potatoes, and oranges and lower prices for corn, lettuce, eggs, and strawberries. In addition to prices, the overall index is also affected by the seasonal change based on a 3-year average mix of commodities producers sell. Increased monthly movement of cattle, strawberries, milk, and broilers offset decreased marketings of corn, soybeans, wheat, and hay.

The preliminary All Farm Products Index is up 11 points (6.2 percent) from April 2012. The Food Commodities Index, at 177, decreased 7 points (3.8 percent) from last month but increased 11 points (6.6 percent) from April 2012.

Prices Paid Index Unchanged
The April Index of Prices Paid for Commodities and Services, Interest, Taxes, and Farm Wage Rates (PPITW) is 220 percent of the 1990-1992 average. The index is unchanged from March but 5 points (2.3 percent) above April 2012.  Higher prices in April for mixed fertilizer, concentrates, LP gas, and feeder cattle offset lower prices for feed grains, diesel, nitrogen, and gasoline.
 
Prices Received by Farmers All crops
The April index, at 218, decreased 8.8 percent from March but is 4.3 percent above April 2012. Index decreases for feed grains & hay, commercial vegetables, fruits & nuts, and oilseeds more than offset the index increase for potatoes & dry beans.

Food grains: The April index, at 243, is 2.0 percent below the previous month but 6.1 percent above a year ago. The April price for all wheat, at $7.52 per bushel, is down 26 cents from March but 41 cents above April 2012.

Feed grains & hay: The April index, at 288, is down 5.9 percent from last month but 5.5 percent above a year ago. The corn price, at $6.67 per bushel, is down 46 cents from last month but 33 cents above April 2012. The all hay price, at $200 per ton, is up $4.00 from March and $8.00 higher than last April. Sorghum grain, at $11.40 per cwt, is 80 cents below March but 80 cents above April last year.

Cotton, Upland: The April index, at 123, is down 0.8 percent from March and 17 percent below last year. The April price, at 74.8 cents per pound, is down 0.5 cents from the previous month and 15.6 cents below last April.

Oilseeds: The April index, at 247, is down 2.8 percent from March but unchanged from April 2012. The soybean price, at $14.20 per bushel, decreased 40 cents from March but is 40 cents above April 2012.

Livestock and products:
The April index, at 163, is 0.6 percent below last month but up 7.2 percent from April 2012.  Compared with a year ago, prices are down for calves, turkeys, and hogs. Prices for broilers, milk, and market eggs are higher than last year. All beef cattle prices are unchanged from a year ago.

Meat animals: The April index, at 159, is up 0.6 percent from last month but 1.9 percent lower than last year. The April hog price, at $61.10 per cwt, is up $1.90 from March but $1.70 lower than a year ago. The April beef cattle price of $124 per cwt is unchanged from last month and April 2012.

Dairy products: The April index, at 148, is up 1.4 percent from a month ago and 15 percent higher than April last year. The April all milk price of $19.30 per cwt is up 20 cents from last month and $2.50 from April 2012.

Poultry & eggs: The April index, at 188, is down 4.6 percent from March but 18 percent above a year ago. The April market egg price, at 64.6 cents per dozen, decreased 30.6 cents from March but is 0.5 cents higher than April 2012. The April broiler price, at 65.0 cents per pound, is down 1.0 cent from March but 15.0 cents above a year ago. The April turkey price, at 67.2 cents per pound, is up 2.2 cents from the previous month but down 6.5 cents from a year earlier.



Retail Fertilizer Prices Still Steady

As has been the case since the first week of November, retail fertilizers tracked by DTN for the fourth week of April 2013 continue to show little price fluctuation. But this steady price pattern may be changing depending on the form of nitrogen, according to retailers.  Six of the eight major fertilizers slipped lower compared to last month but these moves were fairly small. DAP had average price of $615/ton, MAP $659/ton, potash $585/ton, urea $571/ton, anhydrous $858/ton and UAN28 $405/ton.  The remaining two fertilizers rose higher compared to the fourth week of March but again the move was tiny. 10-34-0 had an average price of $612/ton on and UAN32 $454/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.62/lb.N, anhydrous $0.52/lb.N, UAN28 $0.72/lb.N and UAN32 $0.71/lb.N., a much narrower range than in the spring of 2012. Back then, urea cost about 35 cents/lb. more than anhydrous.

Only one of the eight major fertilizers is showing a price increase compared to one year earlier. Anhydrous is now 12% higher compared to last year.  Four fertilizers are a single digit lower in price compared to April 2012. DAP is 3% lower, both MAP and UAN28 are down 5% and UAN32 is 6% lower compared to last year.  The remaining three fertilizers are now down double digits from a year ago. Potash has dropped 12% while urea is 20% lower and 10-34-0 is 23% less expensive.



Bipartisan Group of Senators Call on USTR to Investigate Controversial Anti-Dumping Decision by European Union

Fourteen Democratic and Republican Senators have joined together to sign a letter sent to the Acting United States Trade Representative (USTR), Demetrios Manatos and Acting Secretary of Commerce, Rebecca Blank, calling on them to review and consider a World Trade Organization (WTO) challenge to the European Union’s  controversial and unprecedented anti-dumping duty recently imposed on U.S. ethanol producers.

The letter was co-authored by Senators John Thune (R-SD) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and cosponsored by Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Al Franken (D-MN), Mike Johanns (R-NE), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Tim Johnson (D-SD), John Hoeven (R-ND), Claire McCaskill (D-MO), Pat Roberts (R-KS), Richard Durbin (D-IL) and Roy Blunt (R-MO).

Commenting on the rare bipartisan agreement generated by this outrageous anti-dumping duty, Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, and Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy, issued the following joint statement:

“We are pleased to see that members of the United States Senate have taken action against this outrageous claim by the European Union and have asked the USTR to further investigate the matter.

“The EU Commission failed to make any particular finding of dumping by any producer or marketer investigated in connection with the case. If allowed to stand, this rule would set a dangerous precedent for trade and trade remedies in advance of important trade talks between the U.S. and the EU, and furthermore will dramatically change the boundaries and limits of international anti-dumping law.

“The EU’s recent actions are unprecedented and we believe that the World Trade Organization (WTO) will nullify this blatantly protectionist country-wide anti-dumping duty on exports of ethanol from the United States.”



Japanese Milling Executives Visit U.S. for Wheat Industry Tour

Japan was one of the first, and is still one of the largest, overseas markets cultivated by U.S. wheat growers. As part of long-term marketing development activities, U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) is bringing a team of Japanese milling executives to North Dakota and Washington, DC, May 1 to 7, 2013, for a firsthand look at this year’s crop.

In addition to examining current crop conditions and quality, team members will discuss market and trade policy developments with U.S. agricultural organizations.

“These team visits to the United States give milling executives more insight and perspective into U.S. wheat’s consistently high quality, reliability and value,” said USW Japan County Director Wataru “Charlie” Utsunomiya, who will accompany the team. “They also reinforce the strong relationship built between Japanese millers and U.S. wheat farmers, starting in the late 1940’s when the Oregon Wheat Growers League organized the first trade delegation to Japan.”

Following that first visit, U.S. wheat farmers nurtured that connection through a variety of marketing and educational activities to promote U.S. wheat, including a school lunch program and a “Kitchen on Wheels” that traveled through rural Japan from 1956 to 1960.

Today, Japan consistently imports more U.S. wheat than any other country, averaging more than 118 million bushels per year the past five years. Japan typically accounts for roughly 10 percent of all U.S. wheat exports, importing significant amounts of hard red winter (HRW), hard red spring (HRS) and soft white (SW) wheat.

USW worked with the North Dakota Wheat Commission to organize this year’s team in addition to collaborating with the North American Millers Association, the North American Export Grain Association and other industry organizations.



National Turkey Federation Refutes Alarmist "Study" On Ground Turkey

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) strongly disputes the misleading findings of a Consumer Reports article about ground turkey, which makes a number of alarming claims based on an extremely small sampling of ground turkey products.

"Consumer Reports had the opportunity to foster a serious, thoughtful discussion about food safety, but instead it chose to sensationalize findings and mislead people," said NTF President Joel Brandenberger.

NTF refuted numerous misleading claims, and challenges the methodology in the report, from which essentially all the "findings" are obtained. To help better educate consumers about ground turkey, here are some important facts:
-    The magazine reported high levels of certain pathogens on the samples tested, but it is important to note that the two most prevalent, Enterococcus and generic E.coli, are not considered sources of foodborne illness.
-    By contrast, for the two pathogens of public health concern—Campylobacter and Salmonella—the magazine found almost no prevalence (5 percent for Salmonella and zero Campylobacter).  This is borne out by more extensive government testing, which finds almost 90 percent of all ground turkey and 97 percent of whole turkeys are Salmonella-free.  While the turkey industry strives to control all bacteria on its products, it focuses primarily on those bacteria that present the greatest threat to human health.
-    The article is misleading about the significance of its antibiotic findings.  One of the antibiotics for which it tested (ciprofloxacin) has not been used in poultry production for almost eight years, meaning resistance is highly unlikely to be from farm-animal use, and two other drug classes (penicillin and cephalosporin) are used infrequently in animal agriculture.  The fourth drug class tested by Consumer Reports, tetracycline, is used in animal agriculture, but is a largely insignificant antibiotic in human medicine, comprising only four percent of all antibiotics prescribed by physicians.
-    The article stated three samples contained methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureas (MRSA).  Understandably, this is cause for concern, but the article fails to put MRSA and E.coli in context.  These bacteria are ubiquitous in the environment, and are even present on our hands and in our bodies. 

NTF Vice President of Scientific and Regulatory Affairs Lisa Picard, said, "Enterococcus and generic E.coli are everywhere, and there is more than one way they can wind up on food animals. In fact, it's so common in the environment, studies have shown that generic E.coli and MRSA can even be found on about 20 percent of computer keyboards."

NTF noted the last week's statement of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which regulates antibiotic use in animals, "We believe that is inaccurate and alarmist to define bacteria resistant to one, or even a few, antimicrobials as 'superbugs' if these same bacteria are still treatable by other commonly used antibiotics. This is especially misleading when speaking of bacteria that do not cause foodborne disease and have natural resistances, such as Enterococcus." 

The magazine's parent company believes the FDA should ban all antibiotics in animal production except to treat illness, to which Picard said, "Animals, just like people, sometimes get sick. The turkey industry judiciously uses antibiotics under strict guidelines set by federal law to restore health, and to treat and control disease. This makes good sense for the turkey's health and lowers production costs, something very important to budget-conscious consumers. Proper animal health practices are an important reason the U.S. food supply is one of the highest quality, safest, and most affordable in the world."

NTF is the national advocate for all segments of the $29.5 billion turkey industry.  Get the facts on ground turkey by visiting our website on www.eatturkey.com. 



Protect Soybean Yields by Eliminating Weeds Early: Sonic Herbicide Proven to Perform and Enhance Control

Which weed troubles you the most? The answer is any weed taller than 2 to 4 inches. Beyond this height, controlling a variety of species becomes difficult, and in soybeans, postemergence options are limited. Sonic® herbicide controls weeds preemergence plus delivers residual activity that enhances the performance of post applications by keeping weeds smaller and easier to control.

Every inch of weed growth counts against yield. Early weed competition robs developing soybean plants of sun, water and nutrients. Southern Illinois University research shows 6 to 8 inches of dense weed growth can cause 4 to 5 bushels per acre of lost yield — and profit.

Growing Demands
Considering today’s market prices, soybean growers are motivated to protect their soybean fields and yield potential. Global demand is rising for soybeans and crop protection products.

Growth for soybean exports has predominantly come from China over the past decade, according to the Iowa Soybean Review. China accounts for 30 percent of the world’s soybean consumption, representing a market that first became an opportunity in 2000 for U.S. soybean farmers.

Sonic herbicide controls weeds preemergence and delivers residual activity that enhances the performance of post applications by keeping weeds smaller and easier to control. This is important in soybeans, as postemergence options are limited.

Retailers such as Nick Saathoff of Heritage FS in Bourbonnais, Ill., find applying a residual herbicide provides a valuable window of time to manage workloads, attend to other activities or wait out the weather.

“By spraying the Sonic preplant, we’ve got 45 days before we have to worry about going in for a spray of glyphosate application,” says Saathoff. “Therefore, the weeds are smaller when we spray with the glyphosate like Durango and much easier to control.”

In addition to saving time, programs using residual herbicides offer additional benefits to soybean growers over glyphosate-only programs.

Proven Two-pass Advantages
A two-pass weed control program including Sonic is proven to stop difficult-to-control and resistant weeds more effectively than a glyphosate-only program. The residual activity provides growers with a wide window which allows postemergence applications to be made at the right time on weeds that are smaller and easier to control.

Research shows that by incorporating Sonic in a two-pass program, growers can effectively control a broad spectrum of high-anxiety weeds such as lambsquarters, marestail, pigweed, ragweed, velvetleaf and waterhemp.



PEPSICO HONORS DFA PLANT WITH SERVICE AWARD

In recognition of exceptional commitment to quality and customer service, employees at Dairy Farmers of America’s Schulenburg, Texas, facility have been awarded the PepsiCo North American Foods 2012 Service Award for Contract Manufacturing. The award recognizes the Schulenburg team as leaders among 41 contract manufacturing suppliers at 63 locations across the country.

“Customer satisfaction is critical to the continued success of our contract manufacturing business,” said Edward Tilley, chief operating officer for DFA’s Contract Manufacturing Division. “This award signifies that our employees are consistently achieving the expectations set by a valued partner to the Cooperative.”

The Schulenburg facility performed at or above target on all service metrics throughout 2012. Among key initiatives that earned this prestigious recognition was a flawless introduction of nine new products. This included gaining certification by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for these new products and managing complex capacity needs. During the transition, the team also flawlessly executed a new line installation and service for multi-packing Frito-Lay products.

“The PepsiCo Service Awards recognize exceptional partnership and service-minded individuals who make service a reality every day,” said Kim Parise, director, Frito-Lay Contract Manufacturing Supply Chain. “The companies being honored with our annual Service Award embody the meaning of service and reliability to PepsiCo.”

The Schulenburg facility is one of five DFA Contract Manufacturing plants across the nation. Through the Contract Manufacturing Division, DFA develops and tests new food products for customers throughout the country.

DFA plants utilize state-of-the-art retort technology to make shelf-stable consumer products, including sport drinks, coffee-based flavored drinks, cheese powders and flavors, infant formula, sour cream and cheese dips for well-known brands.

At DFA’s state-of-the-art Innovation Center in Springfield, Mo., food scientists and engineers work closely with DFA customers as they develop and test new food products and create innovative packaging. In addition, flexible manufacturing capabilities allow DFA to produce products in packaging such as steel, aluminum, glass and plastic.

NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending April 28, 2013, rain early in the week combined with below normal  temperatures  to  limit fieldwork until  the weekend when conditions warmed and soils began  to dry,  according  to  USDA’s  National  Agricultural  Statistics  Service,  Nebraska  Field  Office.  Moisture accumulations near 1 inch were common across the southeastern third of the State. However, precipitation was again limited in many western counties where soil moisture profiles are depleted.  Corn planting was underway as soil temperatures rose into the upper 50’s by Sunday.  For the week, temperatures averaged 3 to 6 degrees below normal.  Pastures continued  to show little growth, forcing producers  to draw on short forage supplies.  Fieldwork  was  limited  with  only  3.2  days  considered  suitable  for  fieldwork.    Statewide,  topsoil  moisture supplies  rated  13  percent  very  short,  31  short,  55  adequate,  and  1  surplus.   Subsoil moisture  supplies  rated  47 percent very short, 42 short, 11 adequate, and 0 surplus.  
 
Field Crops Report:
Corn planted was 3 percent, well behind last year’s 40 and 26 average.   Wheat conditions  rated 14 percent very poor, 30 poor, 44  fair, 12 good, and 0 excellent. Wheat  jointed was  6 percent, well behind last year’s 66 and 28 average.  Oats planted were at 70 percent, behind last year’s 92 and 85 average.  Oats emerged were 24 percent, behind last year’s 67 and 46 average.  
 
Livestock, Pasture and Range Report:
Stock water supplies rated 7 percent very short, 20 short, 72 adequate, and  1  surplus.   Hay  and  forage  supplies  rated  23  percent  very  short,  46  short,  31  adequate,  and  0  surplus.  Cattle and calves condition rated 0 percent very poor, 2 poor, 25 fair, 66 good, and 7 excellent. Spring calving was 91 percent complete.   Calf losses  this spring has been 7 percent below average, 88 average, and 5 above average.



Access the National publication for Crop Progress and Condition tables at: http://usda01.library.cornell.edu/usda/nass/CropProg//2010s/2013/CropProg-04-29-2013.txt

Access the High Plains Region Climate Center for Temperature and Precipitation Maps at: http://www.hprcc.unl.edu/maps/current/index.php?action=update_region&state=NE&region=HPRCC

Access the U.S. Drought Monitor at: http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/DM_state.htm?NE,HP



IOWA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

The week ending April 28, 2013 began with unfavorable conditions, but dry and warmer weather across Iowa late in the week allowed fieldwork to  resume.    There was  an  average  of  2.0  days  suitable  for  fieldwork during  the  week,  according  to  the  USDA,  National  Agricultural Statistics  Service.    Field  activities  included  tilling  and  application  of fertilizers and herbicides.  

Topsoil  moisture  levels  rated  3  percent  very  short,  7  percent  short, 76 percent  adequate  and  14  percent  surplus.    Subsoil moisture  levels rated 13 percent very  short, 31 percent  short  and 51 percent  adequate and 5 percent surplus.  

Although oat planting picked up pace and was 45 percent complete,  it was  well  behind  last  year’s  97  percent  and  the  five-year  average  of 79 percent.  Farmers began to plant a small amount of corn.  

Pasture and range condition rated 16 percent very poor, 23 percent poor, 40 percent fair and 19 percent good and 2 percent excellent.    



IOWA PRELIMINARY WEATHER SUMMARY
Provided by Harry Hillaker, State Climatologist, Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship

The  past  reporting  week  began  with  unseasonably  cool  and  wet weather.   Rain began  over  the northwest  one-half  of  Iowa  on Sunday (21st) and changed to snow over about the northwest one-quarter of the state  on  Monday  (22nd).    A  few  areas  from  west  central  into  north central  Iowa  picked  up  more  than  an  inch  of  rain  while  snow accumulated up  to six inches  in Lyon County.   Light  rain  fell over  the southeast  one-third  of  Iowa  on  Tuesday  (23rd)  with  some  snow  also reported.  Very light rain fell nearly statewide on Wednesday (24th).  A welcome period of dry weather began on Thursday and continued  into Sunday (28th) with the exception of a few showers in extreme southeast Iowa on Saturday.   Weekly  rain  totals varied  from only 0.04 inches at Dubuque  to 1.84 inches  at Underwood  in Pottawattamie County.   The statewide  average  precipitation was  0.53 inches  while  normal  for  the week  is  0.94 inches.    The  rain  pushed  the  statewide  average precipitation for the month to an April record of 6.52 inches (old record among 141 years of data was 6.25 inches in 1999).  Monthly rain totals have  been  more  than  double  usual  April  totals  over  parts  of  eastern Iowa  but  were  only  near  normal  over  portions  of  the  northwest  and southwest corners of  the  state.   Meanwhile  temperatures over  the past week were well below normal through Thursday and finally climbed to well above normal over northwest Iowa by Sunday (28th).  Temperature extremes  for  the  week  varied  from  a  Wednesday  morning  low  of 21 degrees at Sibley to a Sunday afternoon high of 86 degrees at Sioux City.   Sunday’s readings were  the first 80’s recorded  in Iowa  this year and marked  the  latest  start  to  eighty degree weather  in  the  state  since 1993.    Temperatures  for  the  week  as  a  whole  averaged  4.5  degrees below normal.  Finally, soil temperatures warmed into the mid to upper 50’s  statewide  as  of  Sunday  (28th)  but  will  likely  fall  back  into  the forties when much cooler weather returns at mid-week.



Drought Outlook Improves for Eastern Nebraska
Al Dutcher, UNL Extension State Climatologist

Nebraska drought mapThe April 23 U.S. Drought Monitor depiction for Nebraska indicates the drought in eastern Nebraska has improved by one category.

Extreme southeastern Nebraska, including Auburn, Beatrice, and Falls City, has been upgraded to D1 (moderate) drought conditions. Omaha, Lincoln, Hastings, Columbus, and Norfolk have been upgraded to D2 (severe) drought conditions. There was no appreciable change for D3 (extreme) or D4 (exceptional) areas of central and western Nebraska.

The primary driver for the improvement in eastern Nebraska was improving soil moisture after 1-3 inches of moisture were recorded with the storm event that moved through the state April 21-22. High Plains Regional Climate Center soil moisture monitoring sites indicate that all stations contained within the D1 area have reached field capacity at the 4-, 12-, 24-, and 48-inch depth. All soil moisture monitoring sites are under grass.

All locations with the current D2 depicted area have reached field capacity at the 4-, 12-, and 24-inch level. In addition, over half of the sites are beginning to indicate a moisture response at 48 inches. Locations contained within the current D3 area have reached field capacity at the 4- and 12-inch level, but have yet to reach field capacity at the 24-inch level. It should be noted that all sites within the D3 area are showing moisture increasing at the 24-inch level, but are far short of field capacity.

All soil moisture monitoring sites in the small D4 area extending from southwest Nebraska into the southwestern Sandhills have not reached field capacity at the 12-inch level and the 24-inch depth is still at wilting point. Because of the near record to record cold observed this April, vegetative water demand has been virtually non-existent and is a major factor contributing to the recent upgrade in drought conditions across the state.



Glyphosate-Resistant Common Waterhemp Confirmed in Nebraska
Lowell Sandell, Weed Science Extension Educator

University of Nebraska-Lincoln greenhouse studies have confirmed glyphosate resistance in common waterhemp from six Nebraska counties: Antelope, Dodge, Lancaster, Pawnee, Seward, and Washington. Waterhemp, a summer annual broadleaf weed, was already one of the most problematic weeds in corn and soybean production, but glyphosate resistance adds a new wrinkle to its control. Glyphosate-resistant common waterhemp has been confirmed in 12 states over the last eight years.

Last year, we had several phone calls from growers about control failure of common waterhemp despite the repeated application of glyphosate. In fall 2012 common waterhemp seeds were collected from fields in selected counties (Antelope, Dodge, Lancaster, Pawnee, Seward, and Washington) and glyphosate dose response studies were conducted in a UNL greenhouse. Glyphosate (Touchdown HiTech) was applied at several rates (0.25x to 16x the recommended rate of 24 fl oz/acre) to confirm level of resistance in common waterhemp populations.

Dose response analysis was performed to estimate the ED50 (effective dose required to control 50% population) and ED90 (effective dose required to control 90% population) values for each common waterhemp population. Comparisons of dose response curves clearly showed glyphosate resistance at a minimum of six times the normal rate (shown as 6x) at the ED90 value (Table 1). For example, 90% control of glyphosate-susceptible common waterhemp was achieved with a labeled rate of glyphosate (24 fl oz/acre); while the population from Antelope County needed a minimum of 147 fl oz/acre or about six times the recommended rate. In some cases, as much as 599 fl oz/acre (25x) of glyphosate was required to achieve 90% control (Table 1). Overall results suggested that the level of resistance was 6x to 25x in samples collected from Antelope, Dodge, Lancaster, Pawnee, Seward, and Washington County. Regardless of whether glyphosate-resistant common waterhemp is present in a given county in Nebraska, there is a good chance it will evolve resistance at some point based upon what has happened in other states.
 
A Multi-Threat Survivor Warrants . . .
The confirmation of glyphosate-resistance in Nebraska waterhemp is further evidence of an ever-evolving weed spectrum, and further proof that using only glyphosate for weed control in corn and soybean is not a sustainable approach to weed management. In the face of herbicide selection pressure, common waterhemp has repeatedly proven to be an ecological survivor. In Nebraska, common waterhemp populations resistant to ALS (Pursuit), triazine (Atrazine), growth regulator (2,4-D), HPPD (Callisto), and now glyphosate (Roundup) have been confirmed. The common denominator in all instances where resistance evolved was near continuous use of the same or similar herbicide management approach with little or no diversity in herbicide mode of action used for many years.

Glyphosate-resistant weeds continue to be an increasing problem in Nebraska. Glyphosate-resistant marestail (horseweed), kochia, and giant ragweed previously were confirmed in Nebraska and have become very problematic in certain areas of the state. The confirmation of glyphosate-resistant common waterhemp will be an additional challenge to Nebraska growers. Resistance to any herbicide mode of action is troubling, but multiple-resistance (resistance in a weed population to more than one herbicide mode of action) is of particular concern. Common waterhemp populations with resistance to multiple herbicides have been confirmed in Iowa and Illinois. This resistance stacking is alarming and limits herbicide options for managing common waterhemp.

A Multi-Pronged Attack
The extended germination window of common waterhemp (May to August), increase in no-tillage crop production, and ability of waterhemp to evolve resistance to herbicide(s) have contributed to success of this weed species. Furthermore, it is a dioecious species, which means male and female flowers occur on separate plants and reproduction requires pollen movement. The resistant gene can be spread long distances via pollen and outcrossing.

A member of the pigweed family, common waterhemp is a competitive weed and the evolution of glyphosate resistance means it will require an effective integrated weed management program to achieve acceptable control. Continuing to rely only on glyphosate will only speed up the evolution of glyphosate-resistant weeds and diminish the effectiveness of glyphosate-based crops and weed control programs. Control of glyphosate-resistant waterhemp will require an integrated approach including:
-    residual herbicides with different modes of action followed by labeled post-emergence herbicides other than glyphosate throughout the cropping system,
-    crop rotation, and
-    a combination of tillage systems.

When combined, these efforts will help slow the evolution of new glyphosate-resistant weed populations in Nebraska.



Bean Leaf Beetle Numbers Down, but Hot Spots Still Possible
Tom Hunt, UNL Extension Entomologist
Keith Jarvi, UNL Extension Educator in Dakota, Dixon, and Thurston Counties

Heavy, early spring bean leaf beetle infestations have been less frequent the last few years. One reason is the increasing acreage planted with insecticidal seed treatments. These insecticides are very effective at controlling spring colonizing bean leaf beetles in individual fields. Another reason may be that the overall population of beetles is lower because of the widespread use of insecticidal seed treatments coupled with insecticide treatment of other pests later in the year, such as soybean aphid (or spider mites last year). However, do not let this lull you into a false sense of security, particularly if you grow soybean without an insecticidal seed treatment. Bean leaf beetles are still present, and pockets of relatively high populations can cause problems.

Appearance and Life Cycle
Bean leaf beetles have two generations a year in Nebraska. Because they overwinter as adults, three periods of beetle activity are seen in the growing season: Overwintering colonizers, F1 generation (offspring of the colonizers, the true first generation), and the F2 generation (the generation that will overwinter).

Bean leaf beetles overwinter as adults in leaf litter (woodlots) and soybean residue. They become active fairly early in the year (April-May), and often can be found in alfalfa prior to soybean emergence. As soybeans emerge, the beetles quickly move to the seedling plants, feeding on cotyledons and expanding leaf tissue. These overwintered beetles, called colonizers, mate and begin laying eggs. Females live about 40 days and lay from 125 to 250 eggs. After egg laying is complete the colonizing population dwindles as the beetles die. A new generation of beetles (F1) will begin to emerge in late June to early July. The F1 beetles mate and produce a second generation of beetles (F2) that begin to emerge in mid to late August.

Bean leaf beetles vary in color, but are usually reddish to yellowish-tan. They are about ¼ inch long and commonly have two black spots and a black border on the outside of each wing cover. These spots may be missing, but in all cases there is a small black triangle at the base of the wings near the thorax.

Because they move to soybean fields so soon after seedling emergence, early-planted fields will usually have more beetles and suffer the most injury, particularly if they are the only beans up and available for the beetles to move into. Although defoliation caused by the beetles can appear quite severe, research in Nebraska and elsewhere has shown that it usually does not result in economic damage. Soybean plants can compensate for a large amount of early tissue loss, so it takes a considerable amount of beetle feeding to impact yield. Generally, soybeans planted during the normal soybean planting window in Nebraska are not colonized by enough beetles to cause economic injury.

Research has indicated that early loss of both cotyledons can result in about a 5% yield loss. Also, these thresholds were developed from studies of soybean seedlings that had relatively large leafs. You may want to take the size of your soybean seedling leaflets into consideration — seedlings with small leaves may be more susceptible to beetle injury and a lowering of the thresholds may be justified. Again, we do not have a research base that considers seedling leaflet size, so experience will have to be your guide.

Sampling seedling soybeans can be somewhat difficult. Wind, shadows, and movement often cause beetles to drop from the plant and hide under dirt clods or in cracks in the soil. We suggest walking carefully along 10-15 feet of row, being careful not to let your shadow cover the row, count beetles on or near the plants, and calculate how many you have per plant. If you can stay at least 3 feet to the side of the row, you would be less likely to alarm the beetles. Sample at least five locations in the field.

Remember that early-planted, temporally isolated soybeans are the most susceptible. If economic thresholds are reached, many insecticides are available for bean leaf beetle control. All will do an adequate job if applied according to label directions. For those who plant early, regularly have economic levels of colonizing bean leaf beetles, and /or have a history of bean pod mottle virus (a bean leaf beetle-vectored disease), insecticide seed treatments may be warranted.

How Defoliation Affects Weed Management
We also have found seedling defoliation can result in a need for earlier weed management. For example, with no defoliation, weeds can remain in the crop up to the V4 stage (third trifoliate) without significantly affecting yield; however, at 30% and 60% defoliation, weeds need to be removed by the V3 and V1 stages, respectively.

Some producers treat bean leaf beetle on seedling soybeans to reduce the subsequent F1 and F2 generations; however, UNL Extension does not recommend this practice. There are many environmental factors that can impact beetle populations throughout the growing season, making it impractical to use spring beetle numbers to accurately predict if beetle populations will reach economically damaging levels in August.

Regular scouting and the use of the appropriate economic thresholds are the best way to manage late season bean leaf beetle in soybean. Late-season economic thresholds will be published in CropWatch later this summer.



IA Soil and Water Conservation Week April 28 to May 5

Iowa Soil and Water Conservation Week is an opportunity to recognize the important conservation practices placed on Iowa's landscape and bring attention to the ongoing work by farmers, landowners and urban residents to protect the state's soil and water resources. On Monday, Iowa Governor Terry Branstad will sign a proclamation recognizing April 28 to May 5 as Iowa Soil and Water Conservation Week.

"Soil and Water Conservation Week is a great opportunity to highlight the important work being done to prevent soil erosion and protect water quality in Iowa," Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey said. "It is vital that we preserve these resources that help make Iowa agriculture so productive and such a key driver of our state's economy."

During the "Dust Bowl" years of the 1930s, the first efforts to prevent soil erosion were developed. In 1939, Iowa passed a law establishing a state agency and the means for soil and water conservation districts to organize. Over 70 years later, the 100 Soil and Water Conservation Districts across the state are hosting a variety of events to highlight the conservation work being done across the state. To see details of all events being held this week visit www.iowaagriculture.gov/conservationweek.asp.

The Department's Division of Soil Conservation provides leadership in the protection and management of soil, water and mineral resources. The Division also works with Soil and Water Conservation Districts and private farmers and landowners to meet their agricultural and environmental protection needs, in both rural and urban landscapes. The Department's conservation partners include USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and Iowa State University, and many others.

This year we celebrate 40 years of Iowa's Cost Share Program, the first of its kind in the nation to put conservation practices on the land. Cost share provides funds to support the construction of conservation practices that are matched by farmers or landowners. In Iowa, over half the practices placed on the land are terraces, with grasses waterways making up almost a fifth. Other practices include water and sediment control basins, grade stabilization structures and more.

Iowa Soil and Water Conservation Week is in coordination with the national Stewardship Week, sponsored by the National Association of Conservation Districts. This year's Stewardship Week theme is "Where does your water shed." Currently, there are more than 57 active watershed and water quality projects across the state.

The Department, in conjunction with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources and Iowa State University, has also recently released a draft Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy. The strategy is a science and technology-based framework to assess and reduce nutrients delivered to Iowa waters and the Gulf of Mexico. The strategy uses a comprehensive and integrated approach, addressing both point and nonpoint sources of nutrients, to achieve reductions in loading of both nitrogen and phosphorus into Iowa's lakes and streams. Anyone interested in learning more about the strategy can visit www.nutrientstrategy.iastate.edu.

"We still have more work to do on conservation, but working together, in partnership, I'm confident we can build on the conservation ethic of Iowans and continue our efforts to improve the quality of the air, soil and water in our state," Northey said.



Branstad Requests Presidential Disaster Declaration for Iowa Counties

Gov. Terry E. Branstad signed a letter to be delivered to President Obama requesting a Presidential Disaster Declaration for five Iowa counties. The five counties in the request are Dickinson, Lyon, O'Brien, Osceola and Sioux.

The Governor is making the request for Public Assistance Program funding in response to severe weather between April 9 and 11, 2013. The severe weather produced damaging winds, heavy rains, thunderstorms, freezing rain, ice and snow that caused damage to utility lines, poles, trees and vegetation.

A joint federal, state and local preliminary damage assessment of the five counties found the severe weather caused an estimated $6 million of damage that could be eligible under the Public Assistance Program. Public Assistance funds may be used to rebuild damaged infrastructure that may include roads, bridges, culverts and other public facilities, or to cover costs of emergency work during and debris removal after storms.



ISU: Vaccination and Health Recommendations for Iowa Swine Shows

With the advent of county fair swine shows in Iowa just a few weeks from now, Iowa State University Extension swine veterinarian James McKean said there are specific steps that exhibitors and fair attendees can follow to decrease health risks for animals and people at these events.

“Exhibitors are strongly encouraged to vaccinate their show pigs for erysipelas, a common and rapid spreading illness in pigs. They should consult with their veterinarian about specific vaccines, follow the label dosage, observe the required withdrawal times for each vaccine and be sure to allow adequate time for the animals to develop immunity,” McKean said. “Also, they should consult with their vet about whether/which influenza vaccine should be considered at the same time.”

This recommendation is not new. At least four years ago, pre-exhibit vaccination with both erysipelas and influenza vaccines was strongly encouraged through Iowa State’s Iowa Pork Industry Center where McKean is associate director.

“With up to three weeks before full protection after a vaccination and a required three-week withdrawal period, these vaccinations need to be administered in a timely manner,” he said. “Collective action by exhibitors adds an effective tool in an exhibition’s biosecurity plan.”

Both erysipelas and influenza can spread rapidly in a group environment such as a swine barn at a fair, leading to major difficulties in providing good swine welfare. It also decreases marketing options for all swine at the exhibition. McKean said when in doubt, people should leave ill pigs at home and consult with their veterinarian about how to handle other animals that have been exposed to those pigs.

“Pigs that are off-feed, have a fever or generally appear unwell should not be brought to a show,” McKean said. “And likewise, people who’re feeling ill with influenza symptoms should not go in swine barns. Both people and pigs can bring influenza viruses to an exhibition.”



Ethanol Production Continues to Reduce Its Energy and Environmental Footprint

A new study released today entitled “2012 Corn Ethanol: Emerging Plant Energy and Environmental Technologies” found that recent innovations in corn ethanol production have resulted in increased yield per bushel even as less energy is required for production. Thermal energy use at a typical dry mill ethanol plant has fallen 9% since 2008, the study found, meaning the carbon footprint of corn ethanol continues to shrink.

The authors, Steffen Mueller, PhD, of the University of Illinois at Chicago Energy Resources Center and John Kwik, PE, of Dominion Energy Services, LLC wrote in summary, “Our work includes an assessment of over 50% of operating dry grind corn ethanol plants. On average, 2012 dry grind plants produce ethanol at higher yields with lower energy inputs than 2008 corn ethanol.”

They continue, “Furthermore, significantly more corn oil is separated at the plants now, which combined with the higher ethanol yields results in a slight reduction in DDG production and a negligible increase in electricity consumption.”

The table below summarizes the 2012 survey results and contrasts them with 2008 operating efficiencies.

                                                                         2012 Corn Ethanol      2008 Corn Ethanol
Yield (anhydrous/undenatured, gallon/bushel)              2.82                              2.78
Thermal Energy (Btu/gallon, LHV)                            23,862                          26,206
Electricity Use (kWh/gallon)                                        0.75                              0.73
DDG Yield (dry basis) including corn oil (lbs/bu)         15.73                            15.81
Corn Oil Separated (lbs/bushel)                                  0.53                              0.11
Water Use (gallon/gallon)                                            2.70                              2.72


Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), commented on the new findings.

“Once again, the innovation and dedication of this industry is borne out in the science and data. Ethanol producers are constantly evolving, innovating, and improving the production process. As a result, today’s ethanol industry is using less energy and water than ever before and greatly reducing GHG emissions associated with the corn ethanol lifecycle. Today’s ethanol producers are conscientious stewards of this country’s precious resources and this country’s energy future. The ethanol industry is a classic example of American ingenuity driving success.”



ACE tells Congress RFS is catalyst for innovation

In response to the release of the second white paper from the House Energy and Commerce Committee on the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) entitled “Agricultural Sector Impacts,” the Executive Vice President of the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) Brian Jennings submitted comments today about the benefits of the RFS for U.S. and international agriculture.

Regarding the RFS and U.S. agriculture: “The RFS provides an economic incentive for scientists and technology firms to help farmers sustainably produce significantly more bushels of corn on an acre of existing cropland.  Since the RFS was enacted in 2005, these advancements, such as new seed varieties and more sustainable tillage practices, have enabled U.S. farmers to produce, on average, nearly 20 additional bushels of corn per acre than before.  Still more innovations, like drought-tolerant genes, are being developed to improve corn yield further.  The 2012 drought-ravaged corn crop was twice as large as the drought-ravaged crop of 1988 and three-times larger than the U.S. corn crop 50 years ago.  None of this progress would have been possible without the RFS.”

Regarding the RFS and global agriculture: “From 2000 to 2011, a timeframe which includes when the idea for the RFS was developed by ACE, when it was enacted by Congress, and implemented by EPA, world corn production rose 12 billion bushels as 43 nations, mostly in Africa and the former Soviet Republic, doubled their production of corn.  Repealing the RFS would simply discourage farmers around the world from planting corn, which runs contrary to what the meat and livestock groups supporting repeal want.”

Regarding the RFS and food prices: “Despite the hysteria created by oil companies who oppose the RFS because it enables renewable fuel to compete for market share with petroleum, and food manufacturers who oppose the RFS because they feel entitled to cheap corn forever, the facts indicate virtually no correlation between the RFS or prices farmers receive for corn and retail food prices.  When we pay $1 for groceries, about 14 cents goes to the farmer.  About 35 cents of that dollar pays for the energy to make, transport, process, and preserve the food we buy.  When oil prices rise, so do food prices.  If policymakers genuinely want to reduce food prices, they should support the RFS because it replaces petroleum with renewable fuel.”

“Special interests who profited handsomely in the past from corn prices that averaged $2 per bushel and who are today heavily lobbying the Congress to repeal the RFS, profited on the backs of American taxpayers who were paying for multi-billion dollar commodity support programs under previous farm bills.  With global oil demand on the rise and global oil prices at a new equilibrium, it is highly unlikely those special interests who feel entitled to cheap corn forever will get their wish.”



AFBF: Legislation Needed to Maintain Movement of Grains

New legislation introduced in the House, H.R. 1152, The Mississippi River Navigation Sustainment Act, would maintain the critical movement of goods during periods of extreme weather, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.

"The Mississippi River is a critical national transportation artery on which hundreds of millions of tons of essential commodities are shipped, such as corn, grain, oilseeds and agricultural inputs," AFBF President Bob Stallman wrote in a letter to sponsors of the bill, Reps. Bill Enyart (D-Ill.) and Rodney Davis (R-Ill.).

"Recent low water events on the Mississippi River created great uncertainty for those who depend on our waterway systems. Whether it is low water conditions or devastating floods, we need to be proactive in planning and preparing to keep the Mississippi River open for commerce," Stallman said.

He praised the recently introduced legislation because it will improve understanding of the Mississippi River system while providing additional flexibility for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to respond to extreme weather events through better water management, improved river forecasting and more effective environmental management.

"An efficient and reliable inland waterway system linked to competitive ports is vital to America's ability to provide affordable agricultural products domestically and to compete internationally," Stallman concluded.



Lower Feed Prices Could Help Hog Producer Profits

Hog producers should return to profitability this spring because of lower feed prices, although delayed planting could still change that, a Purdue Extension agricultural economist says. Chris Hurt said the animal industries got an unexpected boost from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's grain stocks report at the end of March.

"Inventories of both corn and soybeans were much higher than anticipated, and that seemingly indicates that greater supplies of both corn and soybean meal are going to be available for the rest of this marketing year," he said. "A dramatic downward movement in feed prices had not been expected until mid- to late summer."

Corn prices dropped nearly $1 per bushel and soybean meal prices about $15 per ton.

Hurt had earlier predicted that hog production could return to profitability this spring, but that was based on an expected spring hog price rally, not lower feed costs.

"Estimated costs for farrow-to-finish production had been around $70 per live hundredweight in the first and second quarter of this year," he said. "Now, my estimates for second-quarter costs have fallen to about $65.50 and to around $63 per hundredweight for the third quarter."

In the first quarter of this year, live hog prices averaged near $62 per live hundredweight. Hurt expects those prices to continue to rise to the mid-$60 range for the next two quarters.

If that happens, he said second-quarter prices should cover production costs and hog producers could see small profits of around $8 per head in the third quarter - the first profits they've seen since 2011.

If farmers are able to get the 2013 crops planted in a timely manner, feed costs are expected to continue falling for the remainder of this year and into early 2014.

Starting early this fall, total costs of hog production could drop to under $60 for the first time since 2011. But while the optimism is welcome after losses of about $26 a head for the last three quarters, Hurt said feed prices could still change and cause production costs to rise.

"Of course, weather this summer and the size of the 2013 crop production is another uncertainty of feed costs," he said. "If late planting or poor summer weather results in another below-normal production year in 2013, that could clearly push up new crop prices and maybe push them up substantially."

But on the other hand, a more normal production year for the U.S. could provide some cushion against the next small crop and help stabilize feed prices for the next few years.



Second Release of Newly Converted Sorghum Lines Made Available to Seed Industry

The Sorghum Checkoff in collaboration with MMR Genetics (NuSeeds America) and USDA-Agricultural Research Service have released 50 new sources of sorghum germplasm through the reinstated Sorghum Conversion Program.

This is the program’s second of three scheduled releases of sorghum germplasm. In June 2012, the program released 44 converted lines that were distributed to 12 public and private entities engaged in sorghum breeding for the development of new and better hybrid lines of sorghum.

The reinstated sorghum conversion program releases make more of the world’s inventory of sorghum genetics available to public and private breeding programs. The material released provides a brand new source of germplasm with potential yield-improving benefits among other desirable genetic traits. Breeding companies can capture potential traits from this new release of germplasm to incorporate into their current sorghum lines to improve the crop’s productivity.



G-8 Open Data for Agriculture Conference Aims to Help Feed a Growing Population and Fulfill New Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition Commitment

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, along with Bill Gates, and U.S. Chief Technology Officer Todd Park, today kicked off a two-day international open data conference, saying that data "is among the most important commodities in agriculture" and sharing it openly increases its value.

Secretary Vilsack, as head of the U.S. Government delegation to the conference, announced the launch of a new "virtual community" as part of a suite of actions, including the release of new data, that the United States is taking to give farmers and ranchers, scientists, policy makers and other members of the public easy access to publicly funded data to help increase food security and nutrition.

"The digital revolution fueled by open data is starting to do for the modern world of agriculture what the industrial revolution did for agricultural productivity over the past century," said Vilsack. "Open access to data will help combat food insecurity today while laying the groundwork for a sustainable agricultural system to feed a population that is projected to be more than nine billion by 2050."

The virtual Food, Agriculture, and Rural data community launched today on Data.gov-the U.S. Government's data sharing website-to catalogue America's publicly available agricultural data and increase the ability of the public to find, download, and use datasets that are generated and held by the Federal Government. The data community features a collection of more than 300 newly cataloged datasets, databases, and raw data sources related to food, agriculture, and rural issues from agencies across the U.S. Government. In addition to the data catalog, the virtual community shares a number of applications, maps and tools designed to help farmers, scientists and policymakers improve global food security and nutrition.

At the conference, the U.S. Government is also releasing an action plan to highlight a number of new and ongoing U.S. Government efforts including:
-   A partnership to support plant and microbial genebank collections that curate, store and make genetic resources available via the Germplasm Resources Information Network or GRIN-Global;
-   U.S. leadership in the United Nations Global Strategy to Improve Agricultural and Rural Statistics, providing capacity building support for development and improvement of national agricultural and rural statistics; and
-   U.S. Government efforts underway to develop national policies and implementation plans that ensure direct results of federally funded scientific research are made available and useful for the public, industry, and the scientific community which will effectively implement the White House memorandum titled Increasing Access to the Results of Federally Funded Scientific Research, released earlier this year.

The action plan will also include announcements of new, publicly available datasets from the Millennial Challenge Corporation (MCC) U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), USDA and others. The private and non-profit sectors will also announce the release of their own data sets at the conference.

The conference and the U.S. actions supporting open agricultural data fulfill the Open Data for Agriculture commitment made as part of the New Alliance for Food Security and Nutrition, which was launched by President Obama and G-8 partners at the 2012 G-8 Leaders Summit last year at Camp David, Maryland.

In his remarks, Vilsack thanked the G-8, particularly the United Kingdom, which holds the 2013 G-8 presidency; New Alliance partner countries attending or tuning in to the conference livestream from Sub-Saharan Africa; and the World Bank, for partnering with the G-8 to hold the conference.

Secretary Vilsack heads the U.S. Government delegation to the conference and USDA's Chief Scientist, Dr. Catherine Woteki, is acting as alternate head of delegation and providing scientific guidance. The U.S. delegation includes wide representation from Federal agencies including the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID); Department of State; Department of Commerce's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration; Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC); National Aeronautics and Space Administration; and National Science Foundation.



CWT Assists with 2 Million Pounds of Cheese and Butter Export Sales

Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) has accepted eight requests for export assistance from Dairy Farmers of America, Northwest Dairy Association (Darigold), Michigan Milk Producers Association, Swiss Valley Farms and Upstate Niagara Cooperative (O-AT-KA) to sell 925,942 pounds (420 metric tons) of Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese and 1.102 million pounds (500 metric tons) of butter to customers in Asia and North Africa. The product will be delivered May through October 2013.

Year-to-date, CWT has assisted member cooperatives in selling 50.982 million pounds of cheese, 51.727 million pounds of butter, 44,092 pounds of anhydrous milk fat and 218,258 pounds of whole milk powder to 31 countries on six continents. These sales are the equivalent of 1.599 billion pounds of milk on a milkfat basis. That is more than USDA’s projected increase in milk marketings for all of 2013.

Assisting CWT members through the Export Assistance program positively impacts producer milk prices in the short-term by helping to maintain inventories of cheese and butter at desirable levels. In the long-term, CWT’s Export Assistance program helps member cooperatives gain and maintain market share, thus expanding the demand for U.S. dairy products and the farm milk that produces them.

CWT will pay export assistance to the bidders only when delivery of the product is verified by the submission of the required documentation.



USDA Dairy Products 2012 Summary

Total cheese production, excluding cottage cheeses, was 10.9 billion pounds, 2.8 percent above 2011 production. Wisconsin was the leading State with 25.6 percent of the production.

Italian varieties, with 4.63 billion pounds were 1.1 percent above 2011 production and accounted for 42.5 percent of total cheese in 2012. Mozzarella accounted for 78.0 percent of the Italian production followed by Provolone with 7.7 percent and Parmesan with 6.4 percent. California was the leading State in Italian cheese production with 30.7 percent of the production.

American type cheese production was 4.36 billion pounds, 3.1 percent above 2011 and accounted for 40.0 percent of total cheese in 2012. Wisconsin was the leading State in American type cheese production with 19.0 percent of the production.

Butter production in the United States during 2012 totaled 1.86 billion pounds, 2.8 percent above 2011. California accounted for 35.2 percent of the production.

Dry milk powders (2012 United States production, comparisons with 2011)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 1.76 billion pounds, up 17.7 percent.
Skim milk powders - 381 million pounds, down 14.7 percent.

Whey products (2012 United States production, comparisons with 2011)
Dry whey, total - 999  million pounds, down 1.1 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 1.03 billion pounds, up 2.6 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 441 million pounds, up 2.4 percent.

Frozen products (2012 United States production, comparisons with 2011)
Ice cream, Regular (total) - 899 million gallons, up 1.2 percent.
Ice cream, Lowfat (total) - 467 million gallons, up 12.3 percent.
Sherbet (total) - 46.0 million gallons, up 1.4 percent.
Frozen Yogurt (total) - 74.0 million gallons, up 18.0 percent.



Bill Would Require Labeling of Genetically Engineered Foods

U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer and Representative Peter DeFazio introduced the Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act, legislation that would require the Food and Drug Administration to clearly label genetically engineered foods so that consumers can make informed choices about what they eat.

"Americans have the right to know what is in the food they eat so they can make the best choices for their families," Senator Boxer said. "This legislation is supported by a broad coalition of consumer groups, businesses, farmers, fishermen and parents who all agree that consumers deserve more - not less - information about the food they buy."

According to surveys, more than 90 percent of Americans support the labeling of genetically engineered foods. In fact, many consumers are surprised to learn that GE foods are not already labeled.

Currently, the FDA requires the labeling of over 3,000 ingredients, additives and processes, but the agency has resisted labels for genetically modified foods. In a 1992 policy statement, the FDA allowed GE foods to be marketed without labeling, claiming that these foods were not materially different from other foods because the genetic differences could not be recognized by taste, smell or other senses.

The bill's sponsors say the FDA's antiquated labeling policy has not kept pace with 21st century food technologies that allow for a wide array of genetic and molecular changes to food that can’t be detected by human senses. Common sense would indicate that GE corn that produces its own insecticide--or is engineered to survive being doused by herbicides--is materially different from traditional corn that does not. Even the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has recognized that these foods are materially different and novel for patent purposes.

The bipartisan legislation would require clear labels for genetically engineered whole foods and processed foods, including fish and seafood. The measure would direct the FDA to write new labeling standards that are consistent with U.S. labeling standards and international standards.

Charting a Course to Sustainable Water Management
(from NeFB)

The Chair of the Legislature’s Natural Resources Committee is no stranger to water issues. Since arriving in Lincoln in 2006 to represent the people of the 38th District, Holdrege, Neb., native Tom Carlson has had his hand in numerous bills targeted at managing one of Nebraska’s most precious natural resources; water. While his experience in dealing with water bills is extensive, his latest venture into the world of water policy is a little different from the rest.

“In terms of concept and idea, this has been the most positive reaction I’ve received on a bill in my seven years in the Legislature,” Carlson said April 11 in reference to LB 517, legislation he introduced to tackle statewide water management.

LB 517 would establish a short-lived Water Funding Task Force to address the long-term, funding needs related to management of Nebraska’s state water resources. Senators gave first round approval to the bill March 28 after adopting a Natural Resources Committee amendment that tweaked Carlson’s original version. The bill, now waiting to be discussed on the second of three rounds of floor debate, calls for a Task Force made up of the Natural Resources Commission, the director of Natural Resources, the Chair of the Legislature’s Natural Resources Committee and 10 additional members to be appointed by the Governor.

The bill would also allocate $3 million to the Task Force for the production of a report which would be required to be given to the full Legislature by Jan. 31, 2014. The report is to include recommendations for a plan which prioritizes water programs, projects and activities in need of funding in four broad areas: research, data and water modeling needs; rehabilitation and construction of infrastructure; conjunctive management of ground and surface water; and compliance with interstate compacts.

If the initial vote count is any indicator, the bill looks to be on solid ground following a 36-0 first round vote in favor of the measure. According to Carlson, 2003 was the last time the legislature looked to a dedicated study of Nebraska water, and he has high expectations for the current measure and the prospects of what a final report might provide.

“I hope it looks like a 20-year strategic plan for water policy in Nebraska that would have a timeline for projects that need to be done; starting with the 250 water projects that have already been identified.

As a part of that I hope through brainstorming and maybe a working subcommittee we have some actual suggestions for projects that would help us reverse the trend of 1 million acre feet of water coming into the state annually while watching 8 million acre feet of water leave. If we could tackle that issue alone, the work of this task force would be worthwhile,” Carlson said.

Carlson is also hopeful the task force is innovative in its thinking.

“We know water flows west to east and north to south, so we need to think about projects that help intercept some of the excess water in good years and hold it back to help with recharge and have it available so that we can use it. That includes a willing to move excess water from one basin to another instead of having it flow out through the Missouri River,” Carlson said.

Like Carlson, Nebraska Farm Bureau has been heavily involved in the discussions surrounding LB 517. Nebraska Farm Bureau’s Vice President of Government Relations Jay Rempe says the organization is supportive of the bill and the need to achieve long-term planning for water management.

“There are many competing uses for water in Nebraska: irrigation, domestic uses, instream flows, power generation and recreation just to name a few. Proper planning and funding is needed to assure projects and management activities to meet the needs and maximize beneficial use of water for Nebraskans,” said Rempe.



UNL Extension Pesticide Container Recycling Program Enters 22nd Year

More than 2 million pounds of plastic pesticide containers have disappeared and no longer pose a threat to Nebraska's environment and landscape.

"To be more exact, 2.1 million pounds….which is well over 1,000 tons," said University of Nebraska-Lincoln pesticide safety educator Clyde Ogg.

That's the amount of empty, plastic pesticide containers UNL Extension's plastic pesticide container recycling program has helped collect and recycle from across Nebraska over the past 21 years.

As it has since the beginning, the UNL program helps recycle 1- and 2.5-gallon plastic pesticide containers and 15-, 30- and 55-gallon plastic crop protection chemical drums.

"These are farm and ranch pesticide containers that could otherwise end up stored in barns or sheds or be improperly disposed of by casting them aside on creek banks or burning them," Ogg said.

"The program's primary message has always been that it benefits everyone to find simple, cost-effective and cooperative ways to help properly dispose of these containers and keep them out of the environment and that message has been widely embraced.

"If responsibly and properly disposed of, such as through this program, the containers pose no future environmental risk."

Plastic from collected containers is turned into industrial and consumer products like shipping pallets, drain tile, dimension lumber and parking lot tire bumpers.

Last year, about 35 tons of containers were collected.

A full list of recycling sites, guidelines and program information and details is on UNL's Pesticide Safety Education Program Web site at http://pested.unl.edu/recycling.

"Teamwork and cooperation has kept this program viable and successful. That and the commitment of a lot of people that increasingly understand that this is a simple and effective way to care for our environment," Ogg said, citing cooperation from UNL extension educators and collection site managers statewide.

"Most of the (collection) sites are at agricultural chemical dealerships or community recycling centers, which volunteer to take on this additional responsibility," he said.

The program accepts pressure-rinsed or triple-rinsed 1- and 2.5-gallon plastic pesticide containers. They must be clean and drained, inside and out. Caps, labels, booklets and slipcover plastic labels must be removed since they cannot be recycled as part of the program. Those items should be disposed of as normal, solid waste. Glued-on paper labels can be left on the container. Rinsate should be returned to the spray tank.

Of the 38 sites involved in the program, 21 accept 15-, 30- and 55-gallon plastic crop protection chemical, crop oil and adjuvant drums.

Drums must be thoroughly rinsed before delivery to collection sites and should not be cut or opened in any way. Mini-bulk, saddle tanks and nurse tanks, which can be made of fiberglass or plastics not compatible with the recycling program, are not accepted.

Nine sites collect year-around, 14 collect May through August, 11 collect on specific dates and four are by appointment only.

Program funding is by a national coalition of agri-chemical manufacturers through the Agricultural Container Recycling Council, Washington, D.C. 

County collection sites, by category, are listed below. Sites accepting 15-, 30- and 55-gallon plastic drums are noted.

Year-round collection sites:      
            Antelope: Central Valley Ag, Neligh, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
            Buffalo: Kearney Recycling Center, Kearney, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
            Cuming: West Point Transfer Station, West Point, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to noon, 1 to 5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
            Dawes: Solid Waste Association of Northwest Nebraska, Chadron, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
            Knox: Central Valley Ag, Bloomfield, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
           Lincoln: City of North Platte Transfer Station, North Platte, Monday through Saturday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
            Scotts Bluff: Gering Landfill, Gering, Normal business hours; accepts drums
            Washington: Washington Recycling Center, Blair, Saturday 8 a.m. to noon, accepts drums
            Wayne: Central Valley Ag, Wayne, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

May-August collection sites:                                                                            
            Antelope: Central Valley Ag, Brunswick, Clearwater, and Elgin, accepts drums
            Burt: Helena Chemical Company, Oakland
            Dawson, All Points Cooperative, Lexington, accepts drums
            Gage: Southeast Nebraska Cooperative, Beatrice; Holt: Central Valley Ag, O'Neill; accepts drums
            Madison: Central Valley Ag, Tilden, accepts drums
            Otoe: Midwest Farmers Cooperative, Syracuse, accepts drums;
            Sarpy: Farmers Co-op, Gretna.
            Saunders: Frontier Cooperative, Mead; accepts drums, Crop Production Services, Ashland, and Reid's Farmacy, Ashland.
            Stanton: Farmers Cooperative, Pilger; accepts drums.

Sites collecting pesticide containers on specific days:
            Cass: Midwest Farmers Co-op, Greenwood, July 1-31, 8-5 p.m., accepts drums, Midwest Farmers Coop, Nehawka, July 15-19, 8-5 p.m.
            Clay: Cooperative Producers Inc., Sutton, Aug. 15 and 16, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., accepts drums
            Dakota: Central Valley Ag, South Sioux City, June and July, Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to noon (except holidays), accepts drums
            Dixon: Central Valley Ag., Newcastle, May 9 & 23, June 6 & 13, July 3 & 17, Aug. 8 & 22, 8:00 to noon
            Hamilton: Cooperative Producers Inc., Giltner, Aug. 1 and 2, 8-5 p.m, Aurora Cooperative, Aurora, July 22 thru 26, 8-5 p.m
            Kearney: Cooperative Producers Inc., Minden, Aug. 6 thru 8, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; accepts drums.
            Lancaster: Farmers Cooperative Co., Bennet, July 26, 9 a.m. to noon; Farmers Cooperative Co., Waverly, June 28, 9 a.m. to noon; both sites accept drums.
            Otoe: Midwest Farmers Cooperative, Nebraska City, July 26 thru 30, 8-5 p.m., accepts drums.

Sites collecting pesticide containers by appointment only:
            Cass: Wiles Bros. Fertilizer, Inc, Plattsmouth, 402-298-8550; accepts drums.
            Custer: Custer County Recycling Center, Broken Bow, 308-870-0313; accepts drums.
            Gage: Crop Production Services, Beatrice, 402-223-5102, accepts drums.
            Phelps: CHS Agri Services, Holdrege, 308-995-5511.



Webinar Will Explain Farm Bill Options to Producers

A University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension webinar will help producers sort out their options under the farm bill.

The sessions will be offered 10:30 a.m. to noon Central Time on April 29 and May 3. The first hour will feature discussion of farm bill implications and performance for last year and beyond; the rest of the time will be used for discussion of online Excel-based Nebraska ACRE tool for producers.

Both sessions will cover the same material.

Congress this year extended the 2008 farm bill to cover production in 2013.

The extension of this legislation requires producers to again make an election regarding which FSA farm program they will enroll under: the traditional DCP program or the newer ACRE program.

Timothy Lemmons, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension educator, said it's critical that producers understand how each program has performed in the past and how it's anticipated to perform this year.

The April 29 and May 3 webinars provide an opportunity for producers to re-educate themselves on the workings of the ACRE and DCP programs, as well as  expert analysis of how these programs might extend risk management protection in the near future, Lemmons said.

"We will also demonstrate the updated Nebraska ACRE Model Excel program available for download at http://agecon.unl.edu/farmbill," he added.

Scheduled speakers include Brad Lubben, UNL Extension public policy specialist, and Lemmons.

Producers can participate in the webinar at http://connect.unl.edu/farmbillmeeting.  The webinar also will be aired at the following sites: Chase County, 135 West Fifth, Imperial, April 29 and May 3; Valley County Extension Office, April 29 and May 3; Jefferson County Extension Office, April 29 and May 3; Haskell Ag Lab in Concord, May 3 only; Washington County Extension Office, 597 Grant St., Blair, May 3 only; and Cuming County Extension Office, courthouse, West Point, April 29 only.

In addition, the sessions will be recorded and available later at cropwatch.unl.edu.


 
Johnson Hired as Field Agronomist for ISU Extension and Outreach

Mark S. Johnson joined Iowa State University Extension and Outreach as a field agronomist for north central Iowa on April 15. Johnson, a certified professional agronomist and certified crop adviser, returns to his alma mater to serve as a member of the Iowa State extension crops team.

"I enjoy agronomy, teaching agronomic concepts and providing farmers and agri-business research-based information related to their agronomic issues,” Johnson said. “I’m personally rewarded every time I help someone find a solution or come closer to making a good agronomic decision.”

Johnson, of Ankeny, has a B.S. in agricultural education and an M.S. in agronomy from Iowa State University. During his 30-year agronomy career in agri-businesses, he has worked frequently with members of the Iowa State extension crops team that are now his colleagues. While the soil continues to warm this spring, he will be traveling his region to introduce himself to farmers and agri-business agronomists.

“I’m looking forward to meeting the farmers, learning about the issues they face and working with the agri-businesses,” he said. Johnson can be reached by email at markjohn@iastate.edu or by phone at (515) 979-9578.



EPA Issues Final Decision on Iowa’s 2012 List of Impaired Waters

EPA has approved Iowa’s 2012 list of impaired waters requiring Total Maximum Daily Load calculations. The Iowa Department Natural Resources (IDNR) submitted its impaired waters list to EPA on April 1, 2013 for review and approval as required by the Clean Water Act.

“EPA appreciates Iowa’s efforts to rigorously monitor and assess its waters so that IDNR can prioritize its development of pollution reduction plans,” said Karl Brooks, regional administrator. “This process is an important first step toward improved water quality. The Iowa impaired waters list documents IDNR’s priorities for restoration activities. We look forward to working with IDNR and the citizens of Iowa to restore Iowa’s lakes, rivers and streams.”

EPA commends IDNR for its work in preparing the list of impaired waters. In today’s decision, EPA approved the removal of 73 water bodies and the addition of 78 water bodies. Today’s action brings the total number of impaired waters on the state’s list to 479.

A water body is placed on the impaired waters list when monitoring finds that pollutant levels prevent the lake, river, or stream from attaining its beneficial uses. A water body can be removed from the list if it meets its beneficial uses or if a pollution reduction plan for a water body is approved by EPA. Beneficial uses in Iowa include human recreation, water supply, and maintaining healthy aquatic life.

EPA’s April 25, 2013, decision letter provides a more detailed description of EPA’s review and the basis for this action. The decision letter, including the final 2012 impaired waters list, is available at www.epa.gov/region7/newsevents/legal/.



Livestock Loans Raise Farm Lending
Nathan Kaufman, Economist, Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank
Maria Akers, Associate Economist, Kansas City Federal Reserve Bank

Commercial banks boosted lending to livestock operators in the first quarter. According to a February survey of national commercial banks, bank lending for livestock purchases rose to its highest level in almost a decade. High feeder cattle prices kept loan volumes to cattle feedlots elevated. With expectations of further declines in crop and feed prices during 2013, the potential for improved profits also supported lending activity to other livestock operations. In addition, loan volumes for current operating expenses, including feed, rose further following a fourth quarter surge. Bankers also reported a rise in the share of loans made with a floating interest rate for both livestock purchases and current operating expenses.

Real estate loan volumes also trended higher as farmland markets remained active. Potential tax policy changes looming at the end of 2012 led to a flurry of farmland sales in the fourth quarter.  Despite heightened sales activity, farmland prices surged further supported by strong farm incomes. Farmland value gains were most pronounced in the Central and Northern Plains. Irrigated cropland sold particularly well in the Central Plains due to concerns about water scarcity and land lease revenues from mineral rights pushed up farmland prices in the Northern Plains. Farmland values were expected to remain at record levels and real estate loan volumes appeared to advance modestly in the first quarter of 2013.

Profits at agricultural banks continued to improve in the fourth quarter. The average return on assets and return on equity reached their highest levels in five years. Ample funds were available for financing as agricultural banks competed for high-quality farm loans, driving interest rates for real estate and non-real estate loans to new lows. Loan repayment rates also edged higher as record crop insurance payments resulting from last year’s drought boosted farm incomes. With rising loan repayment rates, delinquency rates on farm loans trended lower and net charge-offs, particularly for real estate loans, continued to fall.

First Quarter National Farm Loan Data
Increased lending to the livestock sector helped push first-quarter farm loan volumes above year-ago levels. According to the national Survey of Terms of Bank Lending to Farmers conducted during the first full week of February, the total volume of non-real estate farm loans made during the quarter jumped 9.0 percent in the first quarter of the year. An increase in the number of loans to the farm sector more than made up for a slight decline in average loan amounts. Farm real estate loan originations also rose during the first quarter.

Loans to livestock enterprises surged to historically high levels as operators financed livestock purchases and production expenses. With feed costs expected to moderate throughout 2013, potentially improving livestock profitability, loans to purchase livestock rose sharply in the first quarter. However, low cow inventories underpinned high feeder cattle prices and contributed to higher loan volumes to feedlot operations. In addition, current operating loans jumped compared with last year as winter feeding expenses remained elevated. The crop sector also paid high input costs for fertilizer and seed, though crop insurance payments eased the effect of drought on crop incomes. After surging at the end of 2012, loan volumes for farm machinery and equipment purchases fell below year-ago levels, as did intermediate-term loans to farmers for other, unspecified purposes.

The share of loans with a floating interest rate made to livestock operations jumped in the first quarter. The share of loans made with a floating interest rate rose to almost 70 percent for feeder livestock and exceeded 75 percent for other livestock loans and current operating expenses. Commercial banks also competed intensely for agricultural loans, driving average effective interest rates to new lows. The lowest rates were reported in the Pacific Rim and the Corn Belt.

Fourth Quarter Call Report Data
Agricultural banks posted their best fnancial performance in five years with strengthening profts in 2012. The rate of return on assets at agricultural banks topped 1.1 percent at the end of the year, compared with 0.8 percent at other small banks. The average rate of return on equity at agricultural banks rose to 10.2 percent in the fourth quarter, well above the 7.3 percent reported for other small banks. In addition, the percentage of agricultural banks with negative income as a share of average equity fell to a fve-year low. Furthermore, there were only two agricultural bank failures in 2012 from the more than 50 commercial bank closures during the year.

Farm lending at commercial banks soared at the end of the year. Farm debt outstanding at all commercial banks rose almost 5 percent in the fourth quarter, the largest year-over-year jump since early 2009. High input costs and a surge in farm machinery and equipment purchases to take advantage of tax incentives drove non-real estate loan volumes 5.0 percent higher than last year. Potential changes in tax policies also enticed more landowners to sell farmland before the end of 2012, pushing farm real estate loan volumes 4.6 percent above year-ago levels. Despite higher farm loan volumes, rising deposits at agricultural banks kept average loan-to-deposit ratios steady for much of 2012. 

Farm loan delinquency rates fell during the fourth quarter. Following an uptick in the third quarter, delinquency rates on non-real estate farm loans dropped to 1.4 percent and loan charge-of rates held steady. Delinquency rates on farm real estate loans trended down for the second straight year, falling to 2.7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2012. In addition, charge-of rates on farm real estate loans fell to their lowest level in four years.

Fourth Quarter District Agricultural Conditions
Bankers in agricultural growing regions reported strong year-over-year farmland value gains in the fourth quarter. Strong interest in farmland from both farmers and nonfarm investors drove real estate prices higher in many areas despite increased sales and lingering drought conditions. Robust energy production and less severe drought conditions in the Northern Plains helped push the value of non-irrigated farmland up substantially.

Cropland values in the Corn Belt continued to build on previous gains. Back-to-back years of drought in the Southern Plains limited non-irrigated farmland value gains but fueled demand for irrigated acreage. Still, most bankers expected farmland values would hold at record levels regardless of weather patterns during the coming year. Interest rates to fnance farm real estate loans continued to edge down.

Elevated crop prices and crop insurance payments due to drought supported farm incomes and capital spending in the fourth quarter. Bankers reported a surge in capital spending before year-end to take advantage of tax breaks on depreciation for qualifed farm equipment. However, bankers indicated that strong farm income was limiting demand for some loans. The volume of dairy loans was expected to remain fat though feeder cattle loan volumes were expected to rise modestly in the Dallas District. As agricultural banks competed for qualifed borrowers, interest rates on short and intermediate-term loans fell further in all Districts except Richmond.

With solid incomes, farm credit conditions generally improved in the fourth quarter. According to Federal Reserve District Agricultural Credit Surveys, more bankers reported higher loan repayment rates and fewer loan renewals and extensions at the end of the year as some farmers used income to pay off debt. In addition, the availability of funds for farm loans remained high and collateral requirements for non-real estate farm loans held relatively steady. Average loan-to-deposit ratios edged up in the Richmond District but dipped lower in the Chicago and Dallas Districts.



Food Manufacturers Immigration Coalition Applauds Introduction Of Agricultural Worker Bill

The Food Manufacturers Immigration Coalition today praised the introduction of legislation that would assist in establishing a stable workforce that can help sustain the rural communities where farmers, ranchers and food manufacturers grow and process the nation’s and world’s food supply.

“The introduction of this legislation, and the bill introduced in the Senate, are important first steps in the immigration reform process, which will be a dynamic debate featuring many proposals to reform our flawed immigration process,” the coalition said. “We commend Chairman Goodlatte, and we look forward to working on a comprehensive approach to immigration reform.”

The “Agricultural Guestworker Act,” introduced by House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte, R-Va., replaces the impractical H-2A program with a sensible guestworker program. The new program, known as H-2C, modernizes and streamlines the agricultural guestworker program and would be administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the federal agency that understands the unique needs of America’s food manufacturers and farm and ranch operations.

The existing temporary programs for general labor skilled workers are for seasonal labor only. Under the “Agricultural Guestworker Act,” the H-2C program would offer workers and employers more choices in their employment arrangements, creating more flexibility and making it easier for workers to move freely throughout the marketplace to meet demands. This new program will support food manufacturers, cattle operations, dairies, hog and poultry farms and other year-round agricultural employers.

“An effective occupational visa system may be the most important barrier to illegal immigration,” the coalition said. “The right visa system with the right screening tools will in effect be a ‘virtual border.’ The ‘Agricultural Guestworker Act’ and the creation of the H-2C program would serve the diverse interests of the agriculture and food manufacturing industries and will boost the modern agriculture labor market.”

Since not all agriculture jobs are the same or require the same level of skill and experience, the H-2C program would give employers the opportunity to invest their time in training workers for jobs by allowing them an initial stay of 36 months. Workers would then be required to leave for up to three months. After the period of leave, each H-2C visa holder would only be required to leave once every 18 months. This would provide farm labor stability and would encourage illegal farm workers to identify themselves and participate in the H-2C program.

The Food Manufacturers Immigration Coalition is composed of:
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
National Pork Producers Council
North American Meat Association
National Chicken Council
National Turkey Federation
U.S. Poultry & Egg Association
California Poultry Federation
Georgia Poultry Federation
The Poultry Federation (Arkansas, Missouri, Oklahoma)
Virginia Poultry Federation



USDA:  2012 Milk Production Increases Over Two Percent

Milk production increased 2.1 percent in 2012 to 200 billion pounds. The rate per cow, at 21,697 pounds, was 361 pounds above 2011. The annual average number of milk cows on farms was 9.23 million head, up 39,000 head from 2011.

Cash receipts from marketings of milk during 2012 totaled $37.0 billion, 6.4 percent lower than 2011. Producer returns averaged $18.56 per hundredweight, 8.3 percent below 2011. Marketings totaled 199.4 billion pounds, 2.1 percent above 2011. Marketings include whole milk sold to plants and dealers and milk sold directly to consumers.

An estimated 961 million pounds of milk were used on farms where produced, 1.1 percent less than 2011. Calves were fed 90 percent of this milk, with the remainder consumed in producer households.

2012 Milk Production by State
State                  Cows   -    milk/cow -  # milkfat -   % milkfat  - total production    -  $ receipts
Nebraska ...:      56,000   -   21,179    -     794     -    3.75      -   1,186,000,000  -    231,084,000         
Iowa ..........:      204,000  -    21,730   -      815    -     3.75     -    4,433,000,000  -  849,024,000        
Kansas .....:       126,000  -    21,675   -      804    -     3.71     -    2,731,000,000  -   516,610,000      



New Goodlatte/Scott Dairy Bill

There may be a new compromise on the table for overhauling the way dairy farmers are paid for their milk. On Thursday, Reps. Bob Goodlatte of Virginia and David Scott from Georgia introduced a new bill that offers dairy producers margin insurance protection without requiring them to accept milk check deductions that would be collected by USDA. And the measure would not require dairy farmers to pay new administrative fees to USDA, which was part of a similar proposal last year.

Supporters say the dairy bill provides margin insurance on its own, similar to how other commodities are treated in Title 1 of the Farm Bill. Catastrophic margin insurance is offered for free up to 4 million pounds of production annually, and is offered at higher levels to all farmers without any supply management conditions. The margin insurance will also allow farmers to update their milk production every year they choose to participate in the program.

NMPF Reaction to Introduction of Goodlatte-Scott Dairy Freedom Act
Jerry Kozak, President and CEO, NMPF
“Goodlatte and Scott’s misnamed Dairy Freedom Act is nothing more than an unacceptable attempt by dairy processors to assure themselves access to a sea of taxpayer-subsidized cheap milk. Congress rejected this approach last year, and should do so again this year.

“What processors claim is a compromise is nothing more than a costly ruse that will hurt farmers and taxpayers alike.

“Because it features no mechanism to put the brakes on potential excess milk production, it offers dairy processors an over-abundant, cheap milk supply that will help their corporations’ bottom lines, while ensuring that farmers are underpaid for the milk they produce. Dairy processors are simply trying to have taxpayers make up the difference.

“The market stabilization program in the Dairy Security Act that was approved last year by both the House and Senate Agriculture Committees makes our program cost-effective. Creating an effective, voluntary participation program supported by dairy farmers from coast to coast most certainly is the business of the federal government. That program is the Dairy Security Act, not this dairy processor-backed Trojan Horse.”



IGC Lowers China Soy Imports

The London-based International Grains Council Friday lowered its forecast for China's soybean imports in the current marketing year due to the outbreak of bird flu.

Imports in the year ending Sept. 30, for which the IGC has reduced its forecast by 2 million metric tons to 59 million tons, may still be higher compared with actual purchases from overseas of 57.1 million tons in 2011-12, the council said. Growth in China's soybean imports, which averaged 16% in the last five years, will slow to 3.3% in 2012-13, it said.

The bird-flu outbreak in China has led to the culling of thousands of poultry and raised prospects for reduced demand.

Soybeans are crushed to extract soymeal that is used in animal feed. China is the world's largest importer of soybeans, with a more than 60% share of global trade, securing the commodity from the U.S. and South America.

China's soybean imports fell 9% in the six months through March, according to government estimates. Traders said this was mainly due to acute port congestion in Brazil that delayed shipments which have spilled over to the second quarter.

"Bird flu will reflect in demand during the second half of the year because China has mostly covered its soybean import requirements until June," said Freddy Pranteda, director at Cosur SA, a major South American brokerage for grains and oilseeds.

The IGC cut its forecast for China's soybean consumption in 2012-13 by 800,000 tons to 75.3 million tons but said if realized, it will still be a record high.

Fortenberry Helps Introduce Bipartisan Initiative to Support New Generation of Farmers

Congressman Jeff Fortenberry today joined Reps. Tim Walz (D-MN), Collin Peterson (D-MN), Ranking Member of the Agriculture Committee, and Chris Gibson (R-NY), to introduce the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. The bill is designed to help young people and beginning farmers establish careers in agriculture. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate today.

"Agriculture is essential to our country's wellbeing. Good agricultural policy is critical to America's economic security, energy security, and even national security. Given the average age of the American farmer today is 57 years old, we should work to ensure that the next generation of farmers and ranchers have the opportunity to overcome the financial barriers unique to agricultural operations," said Fortenberry (R-NE). "I'm proud to support this legislation, which provides a variety of support options involving access to farm credit for young producers, cost-saving conservation practices, emerging market opportunities such as locally and organically raised foods within regional foods systems, and increased outreach on agricultural job opportunities for our nation's veterans."

The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act seeks to ready a new generation of American ag producers by modifying and improving upon existing farm programs to help reduce the steep financial burdens of setting up an agricultural business.

The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act will invest in the next generation of American producers by:
-    Enabling access to land, credit, and crop insurance for new producers.
-    Assisting new producers to launch and strengthen new farm and value-added businesses.
-    Helping new producers become good stewards of the land.
-    Providing training, mentoring, and research that beginning farmers and ranchers need to be successful.
-    Conducting outreach on agricultural job opportunities for military veterans.

Fortenberry is a member of the Appropriations Committee's Subcommittee on Agricultural Appropriations. He is a former chairman of the Agriculture Committee's Subcommittee on Department Operations, Oversight, and Credit.



Center for Rural Affairs applauds Beginning Farmer and Rancher Bill

The Center for Rural Affairs applauded today’s reintroduction of the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act, a cross-cutting initiative aimed at helping the next generation of farmers and ranchers enter into agriculture and take advantage of emerging markets.

Representatives Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE), Tim Walz (D-MN), Chris Gibson (R-NY) and Collin Peterson (D-MN) reintroduced the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act in the U.S House of Representatives. Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) took the lead on introducing the same legislation in the Senate.

“We are delighted to see these members of Congress acknowledge the fact that the Farm Bill should be creative and address beginning farmer and rancher issues,” said Traci Bruckner, Assistant Director for Rural Policy of the Center for Rural Affairs. “With this bill and the farm bill debate going on this year we are going to invest in creating a new generation of farmers and ranchers.”

“Agriculture is essential to our country’s well-being. Good agricultural policy is critical to America’s economic security, energy security, and even national security,” said Representative Jeff Fortenberry, co-sponsor of the bill. “Given that the average age of the American farmer today is 57 years old, we should work to ensure that the next generation of farmers and ranchers has the opportunity to overcome the financial barriers unique to agricultural operations.”

“This legislation will help families and individuals across our nation apply their talents, motivation, and dedication to start and continue farm and ranch operations and revitalize rural America,” Senator Harkin said. “Beginning farmers and ranchers will benefit from practical assistance in this bill, including effective training and mentoring, better access to and careful use of credit, enhanced support for conservation, and help in starting and succeeding in profitable enterprises such as value-added businesses.”

“I’m proud to sponsor the Beginning Farmers and Ranchers Opportunity Act, which provides a variety of support options involving access to farm credit for young producers, cost-saving conservation practices, emerging market opportunities such as locally and organically raised foods within regional foods systems, and increased outreach on agricultural job opportunities for our nation’s veterans,” continued Fortenberry.

“We commend Representative Fortenberry, Senator Harkin and the other sponsors for introducing this bill. Their legislation is smart, cost-effective public policy that will create jobs and invest in the future of rural America,” Bruckner added. “It addresses key obstacles that often prevent beginning farmers and ranchers from getting their operation started.”

According to Bruckner, the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act contains multiple crucial provisions, including:
-    Reauthorizing the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, a beginning farmer and rancher training and support initiative. It would provide $20 million in annual mandatory funding through 2018 to help meet growing demand for the program, and include a new priority on agricultural rehabilitation and vocational training programs for military veterans, as well as food safety training.
-    $20 million in annual funding for the Value Added Producer Grants Program and will retain the priority for projects benefiting beginning farmers and ranchers as well as a set-aside of program funding for these projects.
-    Creating savings and enhancing lending provisions that help beginning farmers and ranchers access credit and establish a pattern of savings.
-    Providing conservation incentives to assist beginning farmers and ranchers and socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers to establish conservation practices and sustainable systems on their farms and ranches.

“Creating a new generation of family farmers and ranchers is a long row to hoe, but there are proven strategies that create real opportunities for beginners,” explained Bruckner. “And the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Opportunity Act was written to invest in those strategies and help new farmers and ranchers overcome barriers and take advantage of emerging markets.”

The bill is smart, cost-effective public policy that will create jobs and invest in rural America’s future through training, mentoring, business planning and other services for farm and ranch startups. It will also fund the highly effective Value Added Producer Grants program with emphasis on projects benefiting new farmers and ranchers, Bruckner concluded.



CRP Meetings Scheduled in May

Public informational meetings are scheduled across the state in May so landowners can learn about the May 20-June 14 Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) general signup.

CRP is a voluntary program that helps agricultural producers use environmentally sensitive land for conservation benefits in exchange for rental payments and cost-share assistance.

The meetings are free and no registration is required. The following is a list of meetings by date:

April 30 – Dakota City, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) office, 1505 Broadway, 1 p.m.

May 7 – Scotia, Community Hall, 102 S. Main St., 10 a.m.; Ord, Lower Loup Natural Resources District (NRD), 2620 Airport Drive, 1 p.m.; Bloomfield, Community Center, 101 S. Broadway, 2 p.m.; Loup City, Community Center, 803 O St., 5 p.m.; Ogallala, USDA Service Center, 1605 E. 1st St., 7:30 p.m.; Neligh, UNL Extension Service, 501 Main St., 7:30 p.m.

May 8 – Pawnee City, Library, 735 8th St., 1 p.m.; O’Neill, UNL Extension Service, 128 N. 6th St., Ste. 100, 5 p.m.

May 9 – Hartington, VFW, 126 E. Main St., 2 p.m.; Lincoln, UNL Extension Service, 444 Cherry Creek Road, 2:30 p.m.; Bartlett, Wheeler County Fairgrounds, 3 p.m.; Newcastle, Fire Hall, 205 Mary St., 7 p.m.; Stapleton, Community Center, 236 Main St., 7:30 p.m.

May 10 – Beatrice, Homestead National Monument, 8523 Nebraska Hwy. 4, 1 p.m.

May 13 – Alliance, Natural Resources Conservation Service, 124 E. 24th St., 10 a.m.; Omaha, Chalco Hills Recreation Area, 8901 S. 154th St., 1 p.m.; David City, Hruska Memorial Library, 399 5th St., 7:30 p.m.

May 14 – Rushville, American Legion, 206 Sprague St., noon; Norfolk, Lifelong Learning Center, 801 E. Benjamin Ave., 2 p.m.; Pleasanton, Community Center, 202 N. Sycamore St., 5 p.m.; Imperial, Mid-Plains Community College, 1324 Broadway, 7 p.m.; May 14 – Albion, Cornerstone Bank, 240 S. 3rd St., 7 p.m.; Wahoo, Lower Platte North NRD, 511 Commercial Park Road, 7:30 p.m.; Wallace, American Legion, 217 S. Commercial Ave., 7: 30 p.m.

May 15 – Fairbury, Union Bank and Trust, 1313 K St., 9 a.m.; Franklin, Franklin County Fairgrounds, 10 a.m.; Bridgeport, USDA, 902 Main St., 11 a.m.; Lexington, Library, 907 N. Washington St., noon; St. Paul, The Gathering Place, 612 Howard Ave., 7 p.m.; Benkelman, Farm Service Agency, 1303 A St., 7 p.m.; Seward, The Cattle National Bank, 104 S. 5th, 7:30 p.m.

May 16 – Sidney, South Platte NRD, 551 Parkland Drive, 9 a.m.; North Platte, UNL West Central Research and Extension Center auditorium, 402 W. State Farm Road, 7:30 a.m.; Blue Hill, Senior Center, 555 W. Gage St., 10 a.m.; Wilber, UNL Extension Service, 306 W. 3rd St., 2:30 p.m.; Sargent, Community Center, 314 W. Main St., 4:30 p.m.; Broken Bow, Mid-Plains Community College, 2520 S. E St., 6 p.m.; Pawnee City, Library, 735 8th St., 7 p.m.; Grant, Library, 246 Central Ave., 7 p.m.

May 17 – Scottsbluff, North Platte NRD, 100547 Airport Road, 9 a.m.

May 20 – Trenton, USDA, 36465 U.S. Hwy. 34, 6 p.m.

May 21 – Chadron, Country Kitchen, 1250 W. 10th St., noon; Hayes Center, American Legion, 603 Tate St., 6 p.m.

May 22 – Alma, Johnson Center, 509 Main St., 10 a.m.; Beaver City, Community Building, 318 10th St., 2 p.m.; McCook, 4-H Meeting Room, 1400 W. 5th St., 6 p.m.



First Nebraska Farm to School Summit a Success

Over 30 agriculture producers and representatives from several Nebraska school districts met Wednesday, April 3 in Kearney for the first ever Nebraska Farm to School Summit.  The event brought together farmers, ranchers and food service directors to help one another link kids with healthy, local food.

Since that time, the Center for Rural Affairs has received positive feedback from a number of producers that attended the summit. One attendee in particular followed-up with over 10 schools in his area and has begun to build relationships with the nutrition programs there, resulting in the ongoing development of a Farm to School Program.

“The inaugural summit was a success for everyone,” said Bailey Mahlberg, Nebraska Farm to School Coordinator with the Center for Rural Affairs. “The energy was evident as food service directors and local farmers, ranchers, and producers talked about ways to bring fresh, local, healthy food to children in school. One way to encourage children to eat healthy foods is to model the behavior through school meals.”

Kicking off the event was a presentation by Kathie Starkweather, Rural Opportunities and Stewardship Program Director for the Center for Rural Affairs, along with Mahlberg on the background of Farm to School, the current programs in Nebraska, and how to connect to local resources.

Sharon Davis, Assistant Director of Nutrition Services with the Department of Education, spoke about the rules and regulations of Farm to School. Other presenters included Jewel Marco, food service director of Central City Schools; Linda Truscott, food service director of Norris Public Schools; and Cindy Oldemeyer, a farmer from Firth, NE. Oldemeyer currently provides produce for the Norris Farm to School program.

After the preliminary presentations was an informal “speed-dating” session which allowed individuals to quickly meet with others in their geographic area and discuss the steps to develop a Farm to School Program in their community. An open discussion followed allowing participants the opportunity to air ideas and network with other attendees.

“This was likely the most beneficial portion of the Summit because attendees were speaking with like-minded people and everyone was excited about Farm to School,” said Mahlberg.

According to a survey administered at the summit, respondents reported an 18% increase of understanding farm to school programs, a 22% increase awareness of farm to school program related resources and opportunities, and a 5% increase of likeliness to participate in a farm to school related program.

"I am very pleased with the Summit turnout, both from the producers and from the schools. A true spirit of cooperation was exhibited as experienced farmers and ranchers shared their knowledge of working with schools. Information on how to sell to school districts, good handling practices, good agricultural practices, and food safety was provided to all,” Mahlberg concluded.

The Nebraska Farm to School Summit was hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs and the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s College of Business and Technology. Other sponsors included: Pinnacle Bank, Security First Bank, the Buffalo County Farm Bureau, and the Nebraska Farmer’s Union.

For more information on Farm to School, visit http://www.cfra.org/community-food.



NCBA Awards State Partners for Outstanding Recruiting Efforts

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) awarded three state cattlemen’s associations for their outstanding recruitment efforts during the Spring Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., last week. In all, 14 states met the criteria to qualify for the award drawing for the choice of one-year lease for either a New Holland BR7090 round baler or a New Holland T6 175 tractor.

NCBA recognizes the importance of a strong partnership with its state affiliate organizations and in an effort to recognize the efforts of state partners has joined forces with New Holland Ag to reward recruiters for their outstanding efforts on behalf of the national organization. Vice President of New Holland North America Abe Hughes emphasized the importance of working together on behalf of the beef industry and the company’s commitment to helping strengthen all of agriculture.

“New Holland is proud to support the membership successes of NCBA state affiliates with the equipment lease program. We are committed to help NCBA grow in 2013 and accomplish their goals to protect and strengthen the cattle industry,” said Hughes.

The 14 state affiliates which reached NCBA’s recruitment goals and qualified for the drawing for a one-year lease for a New Holland tractor or baler were:  Arizona Cattle Feeders, Arkansas Cattlemen’s, California Cattlemen’s, Colorado Livestock,  Hawaii Cattlemen’s, Kansas Livestock, Nebraska Cattlemen, North Carolina Cattlemen, Ohio Cattlemen’s,  Oklahoma Cattlemen’s, Texas Cattle Feeders, Utah Cattlemen’s, Washington Cattle Feeders and Wisconsin Cattlemen’s.

A random drawing of qualifying states was held during the Spring Legislative Conference and Ohio Cattlemen’s Association and the Utah Cattlemen’s Association were each awarded with their choice of one-year lease on either a New Holland BR7090 round baler or a New Holland T6 175 tractor to be used to support their efforts on behalf of members of their state associations.

The top five states in NCBA membership recruitment from Jan. 1, 2013 through Mar. 31, 2013 were, in reverse order:  Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, Kansas Livestock Association, Ohio Cattlemen’s Association and Nebraska Cattlemen. The top recruiter during the period was Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association, which was also awarded with a one-year New Holland tractor or baler lease in recognition of their outstanding recruitment efforts on behalf of NCBA.



Beef Products to Pay $450,000 for Clean Air Act Violations

Beef Products Inc. (BPI) has agreed to pay a $450,000 civil penalty to settle alleged violations of Clean Air Act regulations in Waterloo, Iowa, the Environmental Protection Agency announced today.

As part of a consent decree lodged today in U.S. District Court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, BPI has agreed to conduct third-party audits of its compliance with the Clean Air Act's Risk Management Program requirements at the company's South Sioux City, Neb., facility. BPI will then have 90 days to submit a plan to EPA that will correct identified violations within one year.

The settlement stems from a 2007 incident at the now-closed Waterloo, Iowa, facility that released more than 1,000 pounds of anhydrous ammonia into a production area occupied by BPI workers. The anhydrous ammonia trapped two BPI employees resulting in the permanent disability of one worker and the death of the other. During the response to the release, BPI directed its employees to enter the facility while dangerous levels of airborne anhydrous ammonia remained present.

After the 2007 incident, EPA gathered information about the release and facility operations through information requests and an inspection. Based on these activities, EPA determined that BPI did have a risk management program on paper, but failed to implement the program at the Waterloo facility, contributing to the 2007 incident.

"The implementation of a risk management program is integral to the safe operation of facilities where anhydrous ammonia is used," Regional Administrator Karl Brooks said. "The 2007 incident in Waterloo demonstrates that having a plan only on paper increases the risk of accidental exposure to both employees and first responders."

In 2005, with a goal of preventing accidents and helping regulated entities understand their obligations in accordance with environmental laws, EPA Region 7 published an Accident Prevention and Response Manual for Anhydrous Ammonia Refrigeration System Operators. That guide, now in its third edition, is available online.

Anhydrous ammonia is considered a poisonous gas but is commonly used in industrial refrigeration systems. Exposure to its vapors can cause temporary blindness and eye damage and irritation of the skin, mouth, throat, respiratory tract and mucous membranes. Prolonged exposure to anhydrous ammonia vapor at high concentrations can lead to serious lung damage and death.



Beef Trade Explored with Central America

Iowa beef producer Steve Rehder, Hawarden, participated in an Iowa Meat Trade Mission to Central America and Mexico in April. Rehder, a director on the Iowa Beef Industry Council, said that including El Salvador and Honduras on the mission was to identify opportunities for U.S. beef in those two countries.

"Price is the biggest issue in all three countries as so much of their population lives in poverty. Importers have discovered that high quality grain-fed beef is more tender and flavorful than their domestic grass-fed beef, and as their economy improves, there will be potential to increase their imports of U.S. beef," said Rehder. The Central American Free Trade Agreement allows U.S. Choice and Prime beef to enter both El Salvador and Honduras without a tariff, because it does not compete with their own grass-fed beef.

The most desired cuts include rounds, skirt steaks, and top sirloin caps, the Iowa trade team learned as they met with meat processors, government agencies, and importers in San Salvador, San Pedro Sula and Mexico City. The group toured processing plants and retail supermarkets.

Mexico is an especially valued customer for U.S. beef, as it is the third largest export market in value and the largest in volume in 2012. U.S. brands are well received in all three countries, and their citizens like beef. All three countries are also suffering from the same challenges as the U.S. with declining numbers of cattle and increased cost of feed.

"The market development activities of the U.S. Meat Export Federation are impressive," Rehder said. "They not only develop joint U.S. meat promotions but are committed to education and training programs in meat cutting, product safety, handling and preparation to help the companies be successful in selling U.S. beef and pork long term. I'm pleased to see my checkoff at work in this way and to know that beef exports added about $216 to the value of each head of my cattle."

The Meat Trade Mission was coordinated by the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the U.S. Meat Export Federation. Other attendees included members of the Iowa Pork Producers Association and Iowa Farm Bureau Federation. Partial funding for the mission was provided by the beef checkoff.



NGFA, STC to Host Ag Transportation Summit

On July 30-31, the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and Soy Transportation Coalition (STC) will host the first ever Ag Transportation Summit, "A Modern Infrastructure for Modern Agriculture," in Chicago.  The goals of the summit are to:
-    Raise the awareness of the importance of transportation to the success and profitability of U.S. agriculture;
-    Precipitate and motivate further action to promote a transportation infrastructure that better serves the interests of U.S. agriculture;
-    Provide a venue for U.S. agriculture advocates to network and develop collaborations to promote transportation needs; and
-    Build bridges between government and agriculture interests that will result in more effective promotion of agricultural transportation issues.



Farmers Purchase Crop Insurance While Hoping for the Best
(from NCIS)

Although it is early in the year, farmers are already purchasing their crop insurance policies. As of April 22, 2013 more than 236,000 policies have been purchased, protecting nearly 87 million acres representing nearly $20 billion in liabilities, accounting for $800 million in farmer paid premium.  These numbers will continue to grow as we move further into spring.

In 2012, farmers invested more than $4.1 billion to purchase more than 1.2 million crop insurance policies, protecting 128 different crops.

Crop insurance policies protect more than 281 million acres, with insured acreage now equal to 86 percent of planted cropland in 2012.

$30 billion: Farmers have spent more than $30 billion out of their own pockets to purchase crop insurance since 2000.

To date, Kansas, Texas, California, Oklahoma, Nebraska and Florida lead the way in the number of crop insurance policies purchased.



Senators Tell EPA to Drop Clean Water Act Guidance

In an effort to prevent overreaching regulations by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on its interpretation of the Clean Water Act (CWA), 30 Republican senators sent a letter to the agency asking Acting EPA Administrator Bob Perciasepe to scrap its controversial CWA guidance. The proposed guidance would increase the number of waters, streams and wetlands under the jurisdiction of the CWA, which was enacted in 1972, has been stalled at the White House Office of Management and Budget for more than a year.

The Obama administration is still deciding whether or not it wants to move forward with issuing the guidance. Republican members of the Senate’s Environment and Public Works Committee such as Sen. John Barrasso (R - Wyo.) are encouraging EPA to drop the guidance and subsequent rulemaking.

"Leaving the guidance in place would further frustrate any potential rulemaking process," they wrote in the letter. "Given the significance of redefining jurisdictional limits to impose CWA authority, a rulemaking process provides a greater opportunity for public input and greater regulatory certainty than a guidance document."

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Deputy Environmental Counsel Ashley McDonald said the urging by the 30 senators to not move forward with the CWA guidance is a positive step forward for farmers and ranchers who have already been overburdened by EPA regulations.

“In this guidance, EPA has expanded the scope of the term ‘traditional navigable waters’ to cover any water body that can support waterborne recreational use, such as floating a canoe. That puts a huge burden on cattle producers, who would be required to obtain a permit for common, everyday activities like cleaning out a ditch,” said McDonald. “This guidance would amount to one of the largest ever land-grabs by the federal government. It is also a severe infringement on Americans’ private property rights granted by the U.S. Constitution. NCBA appreciates the efforts by these 30 senators in urging EPA to drop these nonsensical regulations which would negatively affect agricultural operations nationwide.”



Commercial Red Meat Production Down From Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 3.99 billion pounds in March, down 4 percent from the 4.17 billion pounds produced in March 2012.

Beef production, at 2.04 billion pounds, was 6 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.59 million head, down 6 percent from March 2012. The average live weight was up 14 pounds from the previous year, at 1,313 pounds.

Veal production totaled 9.2 million pounds, 8 percent below March a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 62,700 head, up 5 percent from March 2012. The average live weight was down 31 pounds from last year, at 252 pounds.

Pork production totaled 1.93 billion pounds, down 3 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 9.32 million head, down 2 percent from March 2012. The average live weight was down 2 pounds from the previous year, at 277 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 13.8 million pounds, was down 3 percent from March 2012. Sheep slaughter totaled 196,100 head, 3 percent above last year. The average live weight was 141 pounds, down 8 pounds from March a year ago.

January to March 2013 commercial red meat production was 12.0 billion pounds, down 2 percent from 2012. Accumulated beef production was down 2 percent from last year, veal was down 5 percent, pork was down 1 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was down 3 percent.

State, million pounds, % of last year
Nebraska .......:     571.9             94      
Iowa ..............:     546.6             97      
Kansas .........:     424.3             96      



G-8 Ag Leaders Set to Meet and Open Data to the World

With a goal of uniting scientific activities across borders to feed the world, agricultural leaders from the G-8 countries will begin a two-day conference in Washington on Monday. G-8 leaders will meet to discuss the challenges and develop policies for online global platforms to share data from publicly funded agricultural research. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will head the United States government delegation and USDA's Chief Scientist, Dr. Catherine Woteki, will act as alternate head of delegation and provide scientific guidance.

"The Obama Administration is committed to opening data to the public and the research community," said Vilsack. "Open data for agriculture offers unlimited opportunity both at home and abroad. We've seen it drive economic growth in the past through the development of navigation systems, weather forecasting and other tools that were revolutionary when created, but that consumers now take for granted. Sharing data will do the same for facing the enormous challenges of reducing poverty, improving nutrition, and sustainably intensifying agricultural production to meet the demand of feeding nine billion people by 2050."

Highlights of the conference include:
-    Remarks by Secretary Vilsack to open the first day of the meeting;
-    Video remarks by Bill Gates of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation;
-    Panel discussions including participants such as Dr. Rachel Kyte, VP, World Bank and Todd Park, White House Chief Technology Officer;
-    Lightning presentations by developers of apps currently in use for agricultural production;
-    Presentations by key agricultural scientists on the technical details of governments opening data to the public, implications for developing countries and best practices.
-    Announcements of new open data releases from government and private sector.

The range of presenters and attendees cover the spectrum of leadership from government and industry. Howard Shapiro, Global Director of Plant Science and External Research, Mars Incorporated will be a lightning presenter, as will Shaifali Puri, from Scientists without Borders, a public-private partnership led by The New York Academy of Sciences. Conference attendees will hear from representatives of the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, the Global Harvest Initiative, Johns Hopkins University and top officials from federal agencies including the Department of Commerce, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Millennium Challenge Corporation and others.

Each day of the conference will include announcements from the G-8 countries and the U.S. government representatives about the data they are releasing.

"Taking data that taxpayers have already funded and making it public in useable formats will fuel economic growth and help drive the agricultural innovation needed to meet our global food security challenges," said Woteki. "We will provide a one-stop shop for all of our public agriculturally relevant data that can be used by entrepreneurs, scientists and agricultural leaders to build applications, conduct analyses, and perform research. This is the first step into a new, 21st century arena of accelerating agricultural research."



Japan Corn Outlook Conference: Focus on US Productivity

In today's interconnected world, it is increasingly difficult to show an expert audience something it hasn't seen before ... difficult but not impossible, as Illinois farmer Ron Gray demonstrated last week in Japan.

Currently the U.S. Grains Council's Secretary/Treasurer, Gray traveled to Tokyo last week to provide a producer's perspective at the annual Japan Corn Outlook Conference. Gray's presence was particularly opportune as his farm in southeastern Illinois was in one of the hardest hit areas in last summer's drought, and the prospects for a strong U.S. rebound was a key concern of the 140 Japanese attendees.

Emphasizing the commitment of U.S. producers to the export market and strong planting intentions for this year, Gray scored additional points with detailed, GPS-mapped field data on soil conditions and yield. "Attendees were impressed by Ron presenting the data from his farm using GPS," noted USGC Director Tommy Hamamoto. "Most people were seeing the real data for the first time."

The attendees -- Japanese grain traders, feed millers, food industry representatives, academics, and government officials -- were especially eager to learn about the cost/benefit of GPS equipment and management tools available from the University, Gray noted. "They were also quite interested in our view of TPP [the Trans-Pacific Partnership]. In addition, the feed industry there is state of the art, and a systematic corn price risk mitigation process is desired."

The Corn Outlook Conference is the largest recurring Council event in Japan, which is the largest U.S. corn export market. Japanese buyers are keenly interested in U.S. production trends, crop quality, and trade policy issues, and the Conference is an important opportunity to reassure our best customers about the capacity, reliability and resiliency of the U.S. grain production system.



Council Ramps up DDGS Promotion Efforts in Southern Mexico

U.S. Grains Council staff and consultants were in southern Mexico this week meeting with grain importers and livestock producers as part of a program to promote distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS). Despite being the second-largest importer of U.S. DDGS, importing 1.5 million metric tons in 2012, an assessment conducted in 2012 revealed that southern Mexico was an underserviced area.

Julio Hernandez, USGC director in Mexico commented, "Even under conservative estimations, the region holds the potential to utilize more than 1 million tons of DDGS per year." The area contains a large beef population of more than 4 million head, which would be the primary drivers of demand. Through the meetings with the regional livestock associations, feed millers and importers, the Council is putting together a joint marketing program which would develop this market.

"The Council is using its role as a catalyst to bring several key players in the region together and unite them in developing this feed market and expanding DDGS sales to this region," said Alvaro Cordero, USGC manager of global trade.

Upon completion of this week, the Council will draft a 2-3 year marketing program to present to its Mexican partners. The plan will ask them to join the Council in developing the market not only for U.S. DDGS, but compound feeds, which will represent a significant new business opportunity for both U.S. and Mexican industries.



Outcomes at National Conference on Interstate Milk Shipments Disappointing to NMPF

For the second time in two years, state public health and agriculture department officials participating in the National Conference on Interstate Milk Shipments (NCIMS) turned down a proposal to reduce the maximum allowable level of somatic cell counts in milk. A lower level of somatic cells indicates higher quality milk.

At its meeting in Indianapolis this week, the NCIMS voting delegates – a group of state regulators overseeing milk safety rules – considered a proposal sponsored by the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) to reduce the maximum threshold of allowable somatic cells in milk at the farm level from the current 750,000 cells/mL, down to 400,000, starting in 2015. But on a close vote, the delegates rejected the proposal, meaning that the status quo threshold of 750,000 will remain for domestic milk production – putting the U.S. “behind the curve when it comes to milk quality standards,” according to Jerry Kozak, NMPF President & CEO.

On a related decision with trade policy implications, the NCIMS delegates approved a proposal to permanently allow foreign dairy marketers to participate in the U.S. Grade A program, by permitting required sanitation evaluations of overseas dairy farms and processing facilities to be carried out by third-party, non-governmental inspectors.

“Dairy farmers in the world’s major milk producing regions have made great strides in reducing somatic cell count levels. Regulatory systems around the world have moved to incorporate these lower somatic cell count levels, and the U.S. needs to be on board with that process, not be left watching from the side of the road by the failure to update our standards,” said Kozak. “We continue to be perplexed by the inconsistency of those state regulators who voted to make it easier to import Grade A dairy products into the United States by outsourcing mandatory inspections, while at the same time rejecting efforts to facilitate the export of American dairy products,” Kozak said.

A similar somatic cell count proposal was defeated by the NCIMS in 2011. Since then, the European Union has moved ahead with a somatic cell count limit of 400,000 for dairy products being exported by the U.S. to EU member countries.

“While the NCIMS has performed admirably in protecting the safety of Grade A milk and dairy products for more than 60 years, we are now in a global dairy marketplace and the Conference needs to recognize this reality,” said Kozak.

“Our farmers are doing their part by continuing to provide ever-higher quality milk, but they are not getting credit for it with overseas customers because we are at the mercy of a regulatory mechanism that seems unwilling to maintain the same pace of improvement. Unfortunately, NCIMS is currently the only national regulatory forum at which to resolve these important issues for the dairy industry,” he said.

NMPF also expressed disappointment at the NCIMS delegates’ rejection this week of a resolution calling for the enhanced enforcement of federal labeling regulations affecting the marketing of imitation Grade A dairy products, such as soy, hemp and rice “milks,” and soy and rice “yogurt.”  The recommendation was also opposed by representatives of the dairy processing community.

“Without the backing of state and federal regulators, and the dairy processing community itself, the nation’s dairy farmers remain the sole advocates for enforcement of proper labeling on imitation dairy products. It is disappointing that the leadership of the dairy processing industry spoke out against the labeling enforcement resolution,” Kozak added.



CME Launching RIN Futures May 13

CME Group said on Thursday that it plans to launch new futures contracts for Renewable Identification Numbers on May 13.

RINs, the credits used by refiners, blenders and importers to show compliance with the Renewable Fuel Standard, will include contracts for D4 biomass-based diesel, essentially biodiesel; D5, advanced biofuels such as sugar-based ethanol, cellulosic ethanol and biodiesel; and D6 renewable fuels, primarily starch-based ethanol.

"With the recent increase in volatility in RINs prices, we've seen strong interest from our customers and other market participants for cost-effective ways to manage their risk in this market," said Gary Morsches, managing director global energy, CME Group.

He said as the actively traded marketplace for RBOB gasoline and ultra-low sulfur diesel contracts, RINs futures contracts will "be a strong complement to our existing suite of products."

These contracts will be financially-settled based on Argus Media's prices for RINs.

These contracts will be available on the CME Globex electronic trading platform, for over-the-counter clearing through CME ClearPort and open outcry on the trading floor in New York, beginning with the May 2013 contract month.

CME exchanges offer a range of global benchmark products across all major asset classes, including futures and options for energy.



CME Selling Kansas City Grain Exchange Building

CME Group Inc has put the building that houses its grain exchange in Kansas City, Missouri, up for sale, as its storied trading floor prepares for closure at the end of June.

No sales price was listed for the 166,000-square-foot building, which also includes an indoor parking garage, according to a statement from Holly Duran Real Estate Partners, one of the firms handling the sale.

CME, which took over most of the Kansas City Board of Trade building when it purchased the grain exchange for $126 million last year, will shut down face-to-face trading of Kansas City's wheat contracts after June 28 and move trading to Chicago. Electronic traders will have access to the Kansas City trading floor through the end of September.

The sale reflects the shift to electronic trading that has swept commodities exchanges, making it less attractive for exchange operators to own real estate for traditional open-outcry pits.



IGC: Global Corn Output Up in 2013-14

The International Grains Council said Thursday that increased plantings and better yields will likely lift the global wheat crop by 4% in 2013-14, to 680 million metric tons, led by gains in the European Union and former Soviet Union.

This was down 3 million tons on its previous forecast for 2013-14.

The London-based body added that a slight fall in feed use will likely be outweighed by improved food and industrial demand, allowing only a slight rise in global stocks, to 181 million tons.

The IGC forecast that global corn output will increase by 10% in 2013-14, to 939 million tons, with harvested area and average yields both projected to be higher.

It added closing corn stocks are set to increase sharply, by 27 million tons, rising to an above-average level in 2013-14.

The IGC said that delayed corn sowings and relatively attractive soybean prices could influence planting decisions in the U.S. over coming weeks, after the USDA's prospective plantings report indicated a near unchanged area.



DuPont Announces a $400,000 Grant to Iowa State University’s Science Bound Program

DuPont announced today a $400,000 grant to Iowa State University (ISU) for its Science Bound program that encourages youth in the state’s urban communities to consider careers in agriculture and science.

The grant will help the ISU Science Bound program to increase the number of ethnically diverse Iowa students pursuing careers in agriculture, science, technology, mathematics and engineering.  The grant, funded through the company's advanced seed and genetics business DuPont Pioneer, is expected to impact more than 500 Iowa students over the next five years.

“We are so pleased that DuPont Pioneer, an early and strong supporter of Science Bound, has expanded their commitment with their most recent and very generous gift,” said Connie Hargrave, Science Bound director and an ISU associate professor of education. “This will make a tremendous difference to our state and nation by increasing the number of young people who are contributing to our nation's needs in agriculture and industry.”

“Building tomorrow’s leaders in science, food and agriculture must begin today,” said Paul E. Schickler, president of DuPont Pioneer.  “We are proud to support the Science Bound program as they develop the students who have the imagination, creative thinking, and enthusiasm needed to feed the world.  In order to advance food security around the world, we need to inspire and engage young people in this great challenge.”

The DuPont Pioneer grant will go toward two of Science Bound’s major efforts:
-    The George Washington Carver Summer Internship program is offered to high school and undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds to gain real-life research experience in a professional work environment.
-    The Learn & Earn program is a four-week summer experience offered to Science Bound students as high school freshmen, sophomores and juniors.  The program polishes and sharpens math, language arts and science skills for students who participate.

Science Bound began over 20 years ago as a way to draw students from middle and high schools in Des Moines, Denison and Marshalltown toward careers in agriculture, science and technology.  The program currently has 378 students currently enrolled.

DuPont Pioneer is a lead supporter of Science Bound and first became involved with the program in 1999 through the donation of an endowment. The latest grant will be announced at Science Bound’s Des Moines-area graduation ceremony on Thursday, April 25, at the Pioneer campus in Johnston.



Novozymes reports 5% organic sales growth in Q1

Novozymes, the world leader in bioinnovation and industrial enzymes, today reported a first quarter of 2013 in line with expectations. Organic sales growth was 5% (4% DKK, 5% LCY) compared with Q1 2012. EBIT grew by 4%, and the EBIT margin was 24.9% – on par with the first quarter of 2012. The outlook for full-year 2013 sales growth in DKK is increased from 4-7% to 5-8%. All other expectations are maintained.

“Overall, the first quarter was as expected. We're off to a satisfactory start in 2013, and we maintain the full-year outlook,” says Peder Holk Nielsen, who took office as Novozymes' CEO on April 1, 2013. “Organic sales growth came in at the lower end of our full-year guidance, and we remain confident that it will pick up during the course of the year. We’ve executed well, and we’re pleased that we can deliver an EBIT margin at this high level in the first quarter despite a little headwind from currency and acquisition costs. These are exciting times for Novozymes as we steer Novozymes forward in our quest to change the world together with our customers."



Cool, wet soils challenge crop establishment

With winter-like conditions continuing unseasonably late this spring, famers are facing several challenges in getting their seed in the ground. In a cool, late spring, getting off to a strong and quick start is vitally important for crops. Farmers can apply PROTINUS® Seed Nutrition to give their seed a nutrient boost that optimizes emergence and early-season development.

“Whether you grow corn, soybeans, canola or cereals, PROTINUS is a good investment to get your crop up and out of the ground this spring,” says Jennifer Bailes, Wolf Trax director of seed products. “In tough growing conditions, PROTINUS shows dramatic results. With this season’s slow start, farmers should give their crop every chance possible to emerge quickly and catch up.”

Young plants have difficulty accessing needed nutrients in cool, wet soils. PROTINUS delivers a balanced ratio of nutrients that are important in early plant development, including zinc and manganese, directly to the seed.

Through replicated company and third-party research conducted in a wide range of crops across numerous soil and growing conditions, PROTINUS is proven to deliver:
1.       Quicker, more even emergence;
2.       Larger seedlings with longer, more developed roots; and
3.       A better ability to cope with cool, early-season growing conditions.

In trials since 2008, on average, PROTINUS-treated seed out-yields the check. In corn, results from more than 400 comparisons show the yield boost averages eight bushels per acre.

Farmers can contact Wolf Trax at 855-237-9653 to check the availability of PROTINUS-treated corn or canola seed near their location, to learn more about equipment for on-farm applications, and for the opportunity to qualify for a free seed treater.

Farmers, Ranchers Urged to Help Fix Oil Spill Rule

The Environmental Protection Agency’s inability to provide clear and concise direction and answers to farmers and ranchers on the agency’s broad and unnecessary rule regarding oil spills has Nebraska Farm Bureau urging farmers and ranchers across the state to help be part of a solution to fix the faulty EPA regulation.

“Not only is EPA’s oil spill rule not needed, the agency has developed a rule that doesn’t fit agriculture and because of that they have struggled to answer questions about the rule. We’ve heard from members who have contacted EPA directly and received conflicting answers to their SPCC questions. That in and of itself has been a source of frustration for many farmers and ranchers attempting to identify whether they are even obligated to meet the rules requirements,” said Steve Nelson, Nebraska Farm Bureau president.

Farm Bureau has been involved in discussions with EPA since 2009 to try and clarify the obligations of farmers and ranchers under the Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasures (SPCC) Rule with minimal success. The main requirement under the SPCC rule requires farms and other facilities to develop, maintain and implement oil spill prevention plans. The rule was first established in the 1970’s as a way to control spills from oil refineries. EPA claims farmers and ranchers have never been exempt from the 30 year-old SPCC Rule, yet the agency didn’t establish farm-specific SPCC Rules until 2009 and did so despite the fact there is no history of oil spill issues on farms and ranches.

In 2011, EPA provided a two-year compliance delay for SPCC implementation, but only for farms and ranches established after Aug. 2002. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the current rule, Congress passed a provision as part of the 2013 Continuing Resolution, which prevented EPA from enforcing SPCC rules on farms and ranches until the end of Sept. 2013. EPA maintains the SPCC compliance deadline for farms and ranches is May 10, 2013.

Farm Bureau is encouraging farmers and ranchers to help fix the rule by contacting members of the Nebraska Congressional Delegation and urging them to take action on the Farmers Undertake Environmental Land Stewardship Act (FUELS Act), which among other provisions related to SPCC, would change the starting point from where SPCC regulations and requirements would take effect. Under the current SPCC Rule, any farm or ranch with above-ground oil storage capacity of 1,320 gallons would need to have a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures (SPCC) plan in place if there is a reasonable expectation a spill would reach waters of the U.S. The FUELS Act would raise the initial threshold of compliance from 1,320 gallons to 10,000 gallons which would prevent many Nebraska farm and ranch families from having to meet the regulations. The FUELS Act has been introduced in both the House of Representatives (H.R. 311) as well as the Senate (S. 496) and garnered support from members of Nebraska’s delegation.

“The SPCC rule is a prime example of big brother government and an agency that has lost its way. Farmers and ranchers are willing to comply with rules and regulations that solve real problems. Having farm families spend their time and thousands of dollars complying with regulations that do little to protect the environment is a waste of farmers and taxpayers’ time and money,” said Nelson.



ACRE or DCP? UNL Webinar Examines Features and Future of Each

In January Congress extended the 2008 Farm Bill to cover agricultural production in 2013. This extension requires producers to reselect which FSA farm program they will enroll in: the traditional DCP program or the newer ACRE program. To help producers with this decision, UNL extension agricultural economists will be hosting a webinar on how each program has performed and how it is expected to perform for 2013.

The webinar will be hosted on two dates, April 29 and May 3, from 10:30 a.m. to noon CT. Both webinar sessions will present the same information.

Producers will be able to re-educate themselves on the functional workings of the ACRE and DCP programs, as well as get expert analysis on how these programs might extend risk management protection in the near future. Ag economists will demonstrate the updated Nebraska ACRE Model Excel® program available at agecon.unl.edu/farmbill.

Scheduled speakers include
·         Brad Lubben, UNL extension public policy specialist, and
·         Tim Lemmons, UNL extension educator.

Webinar Access
The public is invited to access the live webinar at http://connect.unl.edu/farmbillmeeting or at one of the viewing sites where discussion will be facilitated. The webinar will be recorded and made available later on CropWatch.unl.edu.

Download Sites
·         Blair — Washington County Extension Office, 597 Grant Street, May 3 only
·         Concord — UNL Haskell Ag Lab, 57905 866 Road, May 3 only
·         Fairbury — Jefferson County Extension Office, 517 F St., April 29 and May 3
·         Imperial — Chase County Extension Office, 135 West 5th St., April 29 and May 3
·         Lincoln — Lancaster County Extension Office, 444 Cherrycreek Road, April 29 and May 3
·         Ord — Valley County Extension Office, 801 S St., Suite 1 (Fairgrounds), April 29 and May 3
·         Tekamah — Burt County Courthouse, 111 N. 13th St., May 3 only
·         West Point — Cuming County Extension Office, Cuming County Courthouse, April 29 only

Registration for this event is not required. For questions, please contact Tim Lemmons at 402-370-4061.



Nebraska Pork Producers Bring Chef Competition to Pinot, Pigs & Poets

The Nebraska Pork Producers Association is excited about expanding their continued sponsorship of this year’s Pinot, Pigs & Poets event at Happy Hollow Club on June 6, 2013 at 6 p.m. The philanthropic event will feature premium Pinot Noir wines, cutting-edge pork dishes and entertainment provided by slam poets from the Nebraska Writers Collective.

The Nebraska Pork Producers Association has been a sponsor of Pinot, Pigs & Poets since the event’s inception in 2010. In 2013, they are enhancing their sponsorship by involving the Taste of Elegance competition. The top chef will win a trip to the 2014 Pork Summit at the Greystone Campus of the Culinary Institute of America in St. Helena, California.

Restaurants participating in Pinot, Pigs & Poets this year include The Boiler Room, The Grey Plume, Happy Hollow Club, j. coco restaurant, Le Voltaire, Lot 2 Restaurant & Wine Bar, Mahogany Prime Steakhouse, M’s Pub, Ryan’s Bistro, Stokes Grill & Bar, and Sullivan’s Steakhouse.

All proceeds from Pinot, Pigs & Poets support the Completely KIDS organization and their weekend and after-school food programs for Omaha children in need at local schools and shelters. Completely KIDS serves over 2,000 children in its after-school programs and provides over 30,000 meals a year. Last year Pinot, Pigs & Poets raised over $140,000 for these programs.

“The Nebraska Pork Producers Association is enthused about merging our Taste of Elegance culinary competition with Completely KIDS and the Pinot, Pigs & Poets event,” said Shane Meyer, President of the Nebraska Pork Producers Association. “We have hosted Taste of Elegance for many years under the same format and are looking forward to the unique twist Pinot, Pigs & Poets brings to the table. Pork producers and farmers devote their lives every day to food production and feeding the world; it’s what we live to do. Marrying the goal to promote our product with an opportunity to feed hungry children is a slam dunk for our organization.”

For more information regarding this event, visit pinotandpigs.org. To find out more about Completely KIDS and their programs and services, visit completelykids.org.



2013 Iowa Swine Day to feature nationally recognized speakers

Iowa State University, the Iowa Pork Industry Center and the Iowa Pork Producers Association are working together to produce Iowa Swine Day 2013, an industry-focused event designed specifically for the pork industry.

Scheduled for June 27 on the Iowa State University campus, the morning plenary session features nationally and internationally recognized speakers addressing key topics of current interest.

Dr. Sarah Probst Miller of AgCreate Solutions will present “Employee Engagement and Productivity.” She will be followed by Dr. Nick Gabler discussing “The Impact of Disease on Grow-finish pig Digestibility, Metabolism and Tissue Accretion.”

Rick Berman of Berman and Company in Washington, D.C., will provide an inside look at the “Animal Rights Agenda and Animal Production.” The morning session closes with Denmark’s Dr. Bjarne Pedersen, who will talk about “Global Success in Swine Production Tomorrow - What Will it Take?” Three concurrent afternoon sessions will discuss these and other topics in greater depth.

Iowa Swine Day 2013 will be held from 9 a.m. until 5:15 p.m. in the Scheman Building on the ISU campus. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. Lunch and refreshments are included in the registration fee which is only $60 until June 14; the registration then increases to $80. Students of all ages are offered a reduced rate of $25.

Additional information and the registration form can be found at http://www.aep.iastate.edu/iowaswineday/registration.html.



Iowa’s pork tenderloin contest nominations open May 1

Pork tenderloin lovers can begin nominating their favorite for the Iowa Pork Producers Association’s 11th annual Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest on May 1. The contest celebrates a Midwest favorite by recognizing restaurants around the state that support their local pork producers by putting pork on their menu.

Nominations are limited to one per household. Forms are available at iowapork.org and in the May issue of the Iowa Pork Producer magazine. The deadline for nominations is June 11, 2013.

Any café, restaurant or tavern that serves breaded pork tenderloins is eligible to be nominated. Restaurants must receive three nominations to enter the first round of judging. Restaurant owners and operators are prohibited from nominating their own establishment.

“We had our work cut out for us last year with 65 sandwiches to judge, so we anticipate an even greater challenge in 2013,” said IPPA Marketing and Programs Director Kelsey Sutter. “Judging these juicy, tender, flavorful, mouth-watering sandwiches is a tough job, but someone has to do it!”

One person who nominates the winning restaurant will be entered in a drawing to win $100. The winning restaurant will receive $500, a plaque to display in the establishment and statewide publicity.

Representatives of the Iowa pork industry will judge the tenderloins on taste, appearance and physical characteristics and IPPA will announce the winner during October Pork Month.

The 2012 contest winner was Breitbach’s Country Dining in Balltown.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 4/19/2013

According to EIA data, ethanol production averaged 853,000 barrels per day (b/d) — or 35.87 million gallons daily. That is up 21,000 b/d from the week before and the second highest weekly average of the year. The four-week average for ethanol production stood at 836,000 b/d for an annualized rate of 12.82 billion gallons.

Stocks of ethanol stood at 17.6 million barrels. That is a 0.5% increase from last week.

Imports of ethanol showed 39,000 b/d, up from last week.

Gasoline demand for the week averaged 367.5 million gallons daily.

Expressed as a percentage of daily gasoline demand, daily ethanol production was 9.75%.

On the co-products side, ethanol producers were using 12.934 million bushels of corn to produce ethanol and 95,197 metric tons of livestock feed, 84,869 metric tons of which were distillers grains. The rest is comprised of corn gluten feed and corn gluten meal. Additionally, ethanol producers were providing 4.44 million pounds of corn oil daily.



CWT Assists with 2.2 Million Pounds of Cheese and Butter Export Sales

Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) has accepted 9 requests for export assistance from Darigold, Foremost Farms, and United Dairymen of Arizona to sell 965,625 pounds (438 metric tons) of Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, and 1.257 million pounds (570 metric tons) of butter to customers in Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. The product will be delivered May through October 2013.

Year-to-date CWT has assisted member cooperatives in selling 50.056 million pounds of cheese, 50.625 million pounds of butter, 44,092 pounds of AMF, and 218,258 pounds of whole milk powder to 30 countries on six continents. These sales are the equivalent of 1.567 billion pounds of milk on a milkfat basis. That is more than USDA’s projected increase in milk marketings for all of 2013.

Assisting CWT members through the Export Assistance program positively impacts producer milk prices in the short-term by helping to maintain inventories of cheese and butter at desirable levels. In the long-term, CWT’s Export Assistance program helps member cooperatives gain and maintain market share, thus expanding the demand for U.S. dairy products and the farm milk that produces them.

CWT will pay export assistance to the bidders only when delivery of the product is verified by the submission of the required documentation.



USDA and Dairy Producers Renew Agreement to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Increase Sustainability of Dairy Production

Agriculture Secretary Vilsack today renewed a historic agreement with U.S. dairy producers to accelerate the adoption of innovative waste-to-energy projects and energy efficiency improvements on U.S. dairy farms, both of which help producers diversify revenues and reduce utility expenses on their operations.. The pact extends a Memorandum of Understanding signed in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 2009.

"Through this renewed commitment, USDA and the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy will continue research that helps dairy farmers improve the sustainability of their operations," Vilsack said. "This vital research also will support the dairy industry as it works to reach its long-term goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25 percent by 2020."

The Secretary signed the agreement this afternoon at the White House and was joined by representatives of the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy and Dairy Management, including Thomas P. Gallagher, CEO of the center. One objective of the MOU is to increase the construction of anaerobic digesters and explore innovative ways to use products previously considered waste streams from dairy production, processing and handling.

USDA support for agricultural and waste-to-energy research has played a key role in the agreement's success to date. Since signing the MOU, USDA has made nearly 180 awards that helped finance the development, construction, and biogas production of anaerobic digester systems with Rural Development programs, such as the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), Bioenergy Program for Advanced Biofuels, Business and Industry Guaranteed Loan Program, Value Added Producer Grants, amongst others. These systems capture methane and produce renewable energy for on-farm use and sale onto the electric grid. Additionally, during this period, USDA awarded approximately 140 REAP loans and grants to help dairy farmers develop other types of renewable energy and energy efficiency systems at their operations.

Also, USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has provided $257 million in funding since 2009 that has helped more than 6,000 dairy farmers plan and implement conservation practices to improve sustainability. NRCS support for the dairy industry has resulted in 354 on-farm and in-plant energy audits as well as 18 conservation innovation grants for dairy-related projects during the past three years.

Anaerobic digester technology is a proven method of capturing methane from waste products, such as manure, and converting into heat and electricity. The technology utilizes generators that are fueled by the captured methane.. Dairy operations with anaerobic digesters routinely generate enough electricity to power hundreds of homes per year.

Gallagher added, "We have a long and strong relationship with USDA and Secretary Vilsack, and dairy farmers and the dairy industry are very happy that USDA is entering into the next MOU with the Innovation Center. We are all interested in sustainable agriculture and producing good food responsibly, while bolstering an important rural economy, and this new MOU lays out the roadmap for more improvements. That's good for dairy, good for the economy and good for consumers."



R-CALF USA Joins Coalition to Limit Excessive Speculation

R-CALF USA joined with other members of the Commodity Markets Oversight Coalition (CMOC), a broad coalition of associations representing Main Street businesses and agriculture to file an amicus curiae brief with the U.S. Court of Appeals of the District of Columbia in support of a Commodity Futures Trading Commission's (CFTC) rule that would limit speculative trading in commodities.

The 2010 Dodd-Frank Act required the CFTC to quickly adopt speculative position limits for all energy futures and swaps and report back to lawmakers on their impact after the limits had been imposed for one year.

On Feb. 15, 2011, R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard testified before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture, Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management, regarding the need to limit excessive speculation in the cattle futures market to prevent market manipulation by speculators with a vested interest in the price of cattle and from distortions caused by excessive speculation.

On March 18, 2011, R-CALF USA submitted comments on the CFTC ruleexpressing its concern for the ever-decreasing share of physical hedger interests in the Live Cattle and Feeder Cattle markets. R-CALF USA urged the CFTC to set "meaningful position limits to prevent excessive speculation, market manipulation, and ensure market liquidity for bona fide hedgers and preserve the price discovery function of the futures market."

The CFTC approved a final rule on Oct. 18, 2011 that would have imposed speculative position limits on futures and swaps for 28 listed commodities, including cattle.

Last September, a District Court judge, responding to a legal challenge by Wall Street groups, vacated the rule citing an "ambiguous" Congressional mandate and CFTC's failure to determine if it should have made a finding of necessity before promulgating the final rule.

In its amicus brief, the CMOC supports the CFTC's position that Congress mandated a rule setting speculative position limits, citing nearly a decade of Congressional investigations and dozens of hearings into the matter. During that time, lawmakers received expert testimony from CMOC members on the harm that excessive speculation was causing their industries and constituent businesses.

"Congress had been gathering evidence for nearly a decade about excessive speculation and had already concluded that [excessive speculation] constituted an undue burden on interstate commerce" the coalition said in the brief. "Congress had studied and identified a serious crisis that it wanted remedied quickly, and therefore mandated position limits."

The coalition also pointed to the requirement by Congress that regulators conduct an expedited rulemaking process. Lawmakers also required a study into the effect of position limits one year after they had been imposed.

Given this, "there should be no doubt that Congress was mandating swift and decisive action to end what it believed was a serious problem," the CMOC said.



Baucus Announces Decision to Retire

Montana U.S. Senator Max Baucus said Tuesday he won't seek a seventh term next year. First elected in 1978, Baucus says he wants to spend the next year and a half on Capitol Hill focused on serving his constituents and chairing the powerful Senate Finance Committee without the distraction of running for re-election.

The Democrat Baucus is the latest of a slew of members of the Senate to announce his decision to leave politics. Mike Johanns, Frank Lautenberg, Jay Rockefeller, Tom Harkin and and Saxby Chambliss have also stated their intentions to retire after their current terms.

"Deciding not to run for re-election was an extremely difficult decision," Baucus said in a statement. "After thinking long and hard, I decided I want to focus the next year and a half on serving Montana unconstrained by the demands of a campaign."



Improper Cooking, Handling Lead to More Severe Illnesses From Chicken, Ground Beef

(AP) -- An analysis of more than 33,000 cases of foodborne illness shows that ground beef and chicken have caused more hospitalizations than other meats.

The report by the Center for Science in Public Interest says chicken nuggets, ham and sausage pose the lowest risk of foodborne illness.

The group used government data on 1,700 outbreaks over 12 years to analyze salmonella, E. coli, listeria and other pathogens that were definitively linked to a certain meat.

To calculate which meats were riskiest, CSPI ranked the foods in which contamination was most likely to cause hospitalizations. Some meats may have had more illnesses but were less likely to cause severe illness.

After ground beef and chicken, CSPI categorized turkey and steak as "high risk" and deli meat, pork, roast beef and beef or pork barbeque as "medium risk."

Salmonella and E. coli, pathogens that contaminate meat and poultry during slaughter and processing, accounted for a third of the illnesses surveyed. Clostridium perfringens, a lesser-known pathogen that usually grows after processing when foods are left at improper temperatures for too long by consumers or food establishments, accounted for another third.

While a large number of chicken illnesses were due to clostridium perfringens, chicken led to many hospitalizations partly because of the high incidence of salmonella in chicken that isn't properly cooked.

Most of the ground beef illnesses were from E. coli, which is found in the intestinal tracts of cattle and can transfer to the carcass if the meat isn't handled properly during slaughter. Ground beef can be riskier than steak and other beef products because pathogens are spread during the grinding process.

According to the report, listeria, salmonella and E. coli required the most hospitalizations.

The group noted that the data is incomplete because so many foodborne illnesses are not reported or tracked. The CDC estimates that as many as 48 million Americans get sick from food poisoning each year.

To reduce foodborne illnesses from meat, CSPI recommends what they call "defensive eating" -- assuming that meat can be unsafe. Safe handling includes not letting meat juices drip onto other food or counters, cleaning cutting boards and plates that have held raw meat, wearing gloves when preparing meat and washing hands often. Cooks should also make sure meat is heated to the proper temperature before eating it.



Monsanto Announces $400 Million Research Center Expansion

Monsanto Company Tuesday announced plans to bring together its St. Louis-based industry-leading research and development team on one campus when it completes a more than $400 million expansion at its Chesterfield Village Research Center. The company plans to begin work this summer and expects to add 675 jobs across St. Louis County over the next three years.

Monsanto plans to add 36 new greenhouses, additional offices and laboratory space as well as additional plant growth chambers to facilitate development of its seed and trait pipeline. Greenhouses and plant growth chambers, which can be programmed to represent any climate around the world, are a critical component of Monsanto's research work as they offer Monsanto scientists an opportunity to observe and select only the best performing seeds for in-ground testing.

"Our Chesterfield Village Research Center is already a world-class facility, and with our planned new investment, will truly be a home worthy of what I believe is the most innovative team in agriculture," said Robb Fraley, Ph.D., Monsanto's chief technology officer. "Monsanto has pledged to help those in agriculture find new ways to produce more while using less of our globe's resources."

Monsanto's proposed expansion will enable greater collaboration between researchers, as they work to develop new systems of technologies to make agriculture more productive and more sustainable.

Monsanto currently has approximately 1,000 employees at its Chesterfield site, which could have the capacity to house 2,000 local technology employees once the project is complete. Today, the site comprises 1.5 million-square-feet and includes approximately 250 laboratories, 122 plant growth chambers and two acres of greenhouses. In addition to the new office and research space, the company plans to add a new cafeteria for employees, a conference center and a parking structure. The expansion is being made possible with the support of the State of Missouri and St. Louis County.

"In Missouri, we take great pride in our state's status as a leader in the biotechnology industry, and Monsanto's $400 million expansion in St. Louis will accelerate our state's continued growth in this area," Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon said. "One of the fastest-growing sectors of Missouri's economy is in science and technology, and I remain committed to embracing these industries to transform our economy and create next-generation jobs. Monsanto's major investment in the state of Missouri, which will create hundreds of high-tech, high-paying jobs while also boosting our construction industry, further establishes the Show-Me State as a biotech powerhouse."

Monsanto's commercial and corporate teams will continue to occupy the company's Creve Coeur campus, which also currently houses lab spaces. Once employees are transferred to Chesterfield, those lab spaces may be converted to other uses, Fraley said. Construction is expected to be completed in 2017, and teams will begin moving to the Chesterfield site in phases beginning at that time.

Dairy Farm Award Winners from the Midwest Exemplify Commitment to Stewardship and Sustainability

The Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy recently announced the winners of its second annual U.S. Dairy Sustainability Awards, which recognize dairy farms for practices that advance the industry’s commitment to healthy products, healthy communities and a healthy planet. Midwest Dairy Association, the farmer-funded checkoff organization for 10 Midwest states, is pleased to announce that two farms within its territory were honored, including Prairieland Dairy of Firth, Neb., as a national winner, and McCarty Family Farms, LLC of Rexford, Kan., as an honorable mention.

The awards program is part of the U.S. Dairy Sustainability Commitment, an industry-wide effort to measure and improve economic, environmental and social sustainability of the dairy industry. The winners were selected by an independent panel of judges, which included experts from academic institutions, government, dairy science organizations, nongovernmental organizations, media and environmental and dairy industry leaders, and are based on the delivery of results to advance economic, environmental and social sustainability. The panel also assessed the potential for adoption by other farms as well as demonstrated learning, innovation and improvement.

Prairieland Dairy is a creative partnership between four Nebraska dairy farm families that milks 1,600 cows, farms 600 acres and is home to a processing plant, Prairieland Foods, and a composting site, Prairieland Gold. From the efficiently built barns that bring great cow comfort—to automatic cooling, waste management and pest control systems—each has a role in the farm’s sustainability solutions. Prairieland Dairy also taps into the natural power of wind, gravity and the geothermal properties of well water to reduce the use of energy, water and equipment.

“We take all of our commitments very seriously,” said Dan Rice, general manager of Prairieland Dairy. “And none more so than our commitment to sustainability.”

Honorable mention, McCarty Family Farms, has a milking herd of about 7,200 cows that produce almost 60,000 gallons of milk every day in northwestern Kansas. They have a unique partnership with Dannon, and the milk from the McCarty’s three dairies goes directly to their processing plant. First, the unpasteurized milk moves through an evaporator to remove extra water. Every drop of water is reused throughout the dairy for purposes such as cleaning, providing drinking water for the cows and irrigating crops. They reclaim 39,000 gallons of water daily from condensing milk, which means 75 percent fewer trucks are required to ship milk on their farm.

“Sustainability for us means respecting our roles and responsibilities as stewards of the land, caretakers of our animals, members of the community, parents and husbands – but also as members of the dairy community,” said Ken McCarty.

“The strength of the award winners’ stories illustrates why consumers can be confident about choosing their favorite dairy foods,” said Barbara O’Brien, president of the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy. “These and thousands of other actions taken every day – both large and small – contribute to the industry’s overall commitment to a healthy future for the next generation.”

To learn more about the industry’s commitment to sustainability, visit USDairy.com. To get to know more about Midwest dairy farmers and their sustainability practices, visit DairyMakesSense.com.



2013 Draft Rules Related to the New Fully Appropriated Basin Evaluation Methodology

The Nebraska Department of Natural Resources has released new draft rules and methods that it plans to utilize in its annual evaluation of availability of hydrologically connected water supplies. This annual evaluation is aimed at ensuring that streamflow water supplies for existing groundwater and surface water uses are protected into the future. The results of this yearly evaluation are highly valuable in supporting proactive planning efforts conducted by the state and local natural resources districts.

These new rules and methods are aimed at providing greater clarity on the basin water supplies and water uses across the state to facilitate more effective water planning efforts. Director Brian Dunnigan said, “These new rules and methods which have been developed over the last four years will serve to provide foundational information on Nebraska’s water supplies and uses, thus allowing for more effective coordinated planning efforts across the state.”

In an effort to address questions or comments related to the new draft rules and methods the Department has set up a sixty-day public comment period which will run through June 7th. During this public comment period, the Department will hold several public forums across the state. These forums will serve to answer questions related to the new rules and methods. These public forums will be held:
-  Monday, May 13, 2013                    Norfolk & Valentine
-  Tuesday, May 14, 2013                   Scottsbluff & Kearney
-  Wednesday, May 15, 2013             Beatrice
-  Thursday, May 16, 2013                 Lincoln

The Department has also developed a web-portal to receive public comments related to the draft rules and methods. To view more information, the specific times and locations of these forums or to provide your comments on the draft rules and methods, you are encouraged to visit the Department’s website at http://dnr.ne.gov.

Public hearings are anticipated to be held later this summer after public comments have been received with potential rules modifications to be finalized by the end of the year.



Public Forum Farm Bill Meetings Scheduled

In 2013, the U.S. Congress extended the 2008 Farm Bill to cover agricultural production in 2013.  The extension of this legislation requires producers to again make an election regarding which FSA farm program they will enroll under; the traditional DCP program or the newer ACRE program.  It is important in making this decision that producers understand how each program has performed in the past and how it is anticipated to perform for 2013. 

To assist producers with this decision, UNL Extension Agricultural Economics will be offering two online webinars on April 29th and May 3rd from 10:30 a.m. to noon Central Time.  A public viewing site is available at the Cuming County Courthouse Meeting Room, West Point, on April 29 only.

This webinar provides an opportunity for producers to re-educate themselves on the functional workings of the ACRE and DCP programs, as well as  expert analysis of how these programs might extend risk management protection in the near future.  Scheduled speakers include Dr. Brad Lubben, UNL Extension Public Policy Specialist and Tim Lemmons, UNL Extension Educator. 

Interested public may join this event at the following web address: http://connect.unl.edu/farmbillmeeting.  There is no charge to participate.  This meeting will be recorded and made available for viewing at http://cropwatch.unl.edu.  Registration for this event is not required.  For questions, please contact Tim Lemmons at 402-370-4061.



Weeds are Emerging: Recommendations for Pre-plant and Pre-emergence Weed Control
Lowell Sandell, Weed Science Extension Educator

Precipitation in the last few weeks has provided enough moisture for weed seeds to germinate. Several summer annual weed species in Nebraska emerge early in the season prior to planting corn and soybean and need to be controlled before they become too large.

Of particular concern are kochia and giant ragweed, as we believe there are numerous populations in Nebraska that glyphosate will not control. We have observed significant kochia and giant ragweed emergence in the past two weeks in some of our research plots, and have heard reports of emergence from multiple areas of the state. If growers have had difficulty with kochia or giant ragweed in the last few years, every effort should be made to control these populations with an effective burndown application or tillage prior to planting. Based on observations in our giant ragweed research studies the previous two years, we have not had success controlling glyphosate-resistant giant ragweed with any herbicide program not containing 2,4-D as a component of a burndown application. If you apply 2,4-D prior to planting, be sure to adhere to the planting interval specified on the label.

Some other common weed species that emerge early in the season in Nebraska fields are common chickweed, dandelion, field pennycress, henbit, marestail, tansy mustard, and Virginia pepperweed.
Developing a Successful Early Season Weed Management Program

Profitable crop production starts with a weed control program that includes pre-plant and/or pre-emergence herbicides to deliver long-lasting, residual weed control. A spring burndown program in corn and soybean provides effective weed control to prepare for planting and helps to decrease the seedbank during the season. Early season weed competition can greatly reduce yields and profits.

Burndown
Several studies have shown that if weeds grow to 9 inches, soybean yield can be reduced by as much as 6%; 12-inch weeds can result in up to a 10% yield loss. In corn, 12-inch weeds could cause 22% yield loss when left uncontrolled. Among the herbicides registered for spring burndown weed control are:
-    Corn: 2,4-D, atrazine, Balance Flexx, Corvus, dicamba, glyphosate, Landmaster II, Lexar, and Sharpen
-    Soybean: registered spring burndown herbicides include 2,4-D, Authority First, glyphosate, Gramoxone, Pursuit, and Sharpen.

Pre-emergence
The pre-emergence (residual) herbicide protects the crop with early, effective, and lasting weed control to help maximize yields, regardless of the production system. In addition, including pre-emergence herbicides can minimize the post-emergence herbicide applications and protect against early-season weed competition when weather or busy schedules prohibit a timely post-emergence application. Among the herbicides registered for pre-emergence weed control are:
-    Corn: Aatrex, Balance Flexx, Corvus, Degree Extra, Fierce, Lumax, Outlook, Surestart, Tripleflex, Warrant, and Zemax
-    Soybeans: Authority MTZ, Boundry, Command, Dual II Magnum, Envive, Optill, Pursuit, Prowl H2O, Valor XLT, and Warrant.

Always read and follow herbicide label directions.



Biostimulants/Biofertilizers: Buyer Beware
Charles Wortmann, UNL Soil Fertility Extension Specialist

This article draws on a recent article in Fertilizers & Agriculture. Many new products are available and may be promoted as “elicitors, phytostimulants, biostimulants, phytoprotectants, biofertilizers, bioactivators, soil enhancers, …..”. Generally the information on these is vague, their mechanisms are not fully understood, and they have not undergone sufficient independent testing. Unlike fertilizers and pesticides, these products are not regulated; marketing does not require proof of effectiveness or full information on mode of action. We hope that some are of value; we expect most to have a short market life.

A suggested categorization of biostimulants is: “humic substances, complex organic materials, beneficial chemical elements, inorganic materials, seaweeds, chitin and chitosan, antitranspirants, and free amino acids.” Some products may overlap two or more categories. The European Commission is moving toward regulation using the definition: “Plant biostimulant means a material which contains substance(s) and/or microorganisms whose function when applied to plants or the rhizosphere is to stimulate natural processes to benefit nutrient uptake, nutrient use efficiency, tolerance to abiotic stress, and/or crop quality, independently of its nutrient content.”

As with any “buyer beware” products, we encourage field testing biostimulant products before fully integrating these into your input package. Past experience indicates that the product effects on yield are likely to be negligible or small and a good trial design is needed to obtain reliable information. Such a field trial can be easily done in cooperation with UNL Extension. Yields with and without the product applied can be measured using a yield monitor or weigh wagon. Ask the supplying company to cost-share or provide free product for the trial. UNL researchers will be interested to more closely evaluate products that are verified to adequately increase yield or improve input use efficiency.

A group of North Central Region soil scientists maintains a Compendium of Research Reports on Use of Non-Traditional Materials for Crop Production, including biostimulants. It's likely to include information on older products, but not necessarily new products on the market.



Checkoff Launches New Consumer Advertising Campaign

The new “Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.” consumer advertising campaign is premiering this month, bringing the recognizable tagline to older millennials and Gen-Xers. The new campaign, funded by the beef checkoff, will feature sizzling beef recipes, juicy details about essential nutrients and the voice of one of Hollywood’s most promising new talents.

“This campaign builds upon the core benefits that only beef offers -- its great taste and 10 essential nutrients. While most folks just look at beef for its sizzle or great flavor, it’s made up of more than that. Its nutrients are what make it the most powerful protein and what makes beef above all else,” says Cevin Jones, chair of the checkoff’s Domestic Consumer Preference Committee and producer from Eden, Idaho. “It doesn’t hurt that the voice delivering the message on the other side of the radio epitomizes health and sizzle too.”

New Voice for a New Target
The new “Above All Else” campaign aims to reach the next generation of beef eaters – the older millennial and Gen-Xer, aged 25 to 44 –who care about food and nutrition.

While keeping many brand mainstays, such as Aaron Copeland’s “Rodeo” music, the new beef campaign is switching up the voice behind the famous words, “Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.” Sparking a new interest for the older millennial and Gen X target, Garrett Hedlund’s voice will take a starring role in the campaign’s radio spots. Garrett personally represents healthful living, and his strong, warm voice is perfect for provoking new understanding about beef.

“I’m proud to represent America’s farmers and ranchers,” Hedlund said. “I grew up on my father’s cattle operation, so I’m right at home as the new voice of beef.”

Born in Roseau, Minn., Garrett spent his early years on a cattle operation. He was just 18 when he landed a role in the epic film Troy (2004) playing opposite Brad Pitt. Following his debut in Troy, Garrett went on to Friday Night Lights (2004) and Tron Legacy (2010). His latest roles include Country Strong (2011), in which he plays a rising young country star opposite Gwyneth Paltrow, as well as On the Road, in theaters now.

What’s Your Dinner Made Of?
Research has shown that 45 percent of the target demographic said they would choose beef more often if they knew about how its nutrients compared to chicken. The new campaign helps set the record straight about beef’s essential nutrients in an engaging and educational way.  

That’s the question each “Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner” print advertisements asks. It’s answered with bold copy highlighting the nutritional benefits of Beef along with tantalizing food photography reminding the consumer that delicious can, and does go right alongside nutritious. Each advertisement calls out an individual essential nutrient, like protein: “The Strip steak has lots of protein…and your appetite’s attention.” Another ad reminds you that a dinner with beef “has iron. The most lean, delicious and tender iron known to man.”

The print advertisements will appear in monthly national magazines with an emphasis on food, health/fitness, parenting, lifestyle and men’s sports. In addition to traditional print placements, the campaign will appear across a wide range of digital platforms, such as 22 tablet versions, online radio stations (e.g., Pandora), video websites (e.g., Hulu), social networking sites (e.g., Facebook) and popular recipe websites (e.g., AllRecipes.com). State Beef Councils will extend the campaign through print, radio, digital, in-person promotions, sporting events, outdoor advertising and more. Public relations, health professional outreach, social media and other promotional efforts round out this integrated effort.

For delicious triple-tested beef recipes, nutrition information and to learn more about the “Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.” advertising campaign, please visit BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com.



NCGA Please with Court Decision to Dismiss Pesticide Lawsuit

The U.S. District Court of Northern California issued an order yesterday dismissing a lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that alleged the EPA violated the Endangered Species Act when registering hundreds of compounds. The National Corn Growers Association is pleased with the decision and supports farmers' ability to use products that have already been approved within EPA's rigorous registration process.

The suit was filed by the Center for Biological Diversity and the Pesticide Action Network of North America, claiming that EPA failed to undertake consultations with the Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service, as required by the Endangered Species Act.

"The dismissal of the case is a sweeping victory for growers who were faced with the possibility of major restrictions on previously approved crop protection products," NCGA President Pam Johnson said.  "This offers reassurance to America's farmers that they are free to use products that have been deemed safe by the EPA. Furthermore, it demonstrates a faith that we share in the EPA's extensive testing process."

The suit, which was filed in 2011, specifically alleged that the agency failed to consult with the Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service on hundreds of pesticide registrations potentially affecting hundreds of species.

That year, NCGA and other agricultural organizations joined the case as interveners to ensure that growers have a seat at the table in any potential settlement negotiations. NCGA took these actions as the suit posed a significant risk to agriculture by raising the possibility of court-ordered injunctions that could limit pesticide usage throughout the United States.  Atrazine and a number of other chemicals used by corn farmers were specifically named in the suit.

The lawsuit requested the court apply "appropriate restrictions on the use of pesticides where they may affect endangered and threatened species and critical habitats" until consultations had been completed and the product registrations were in compliance with the ESA.  If successful, these "appropriate restrictions" could have resulted in the imposition of buffers zones and other product use restrictions that had the potential to dramatically reduce the amount of land available to agriculture while doing little to protect threatened species and their habitat. 



Depot Explosion Ignites Fertilizer Safety Concerns, Not Prices

Fertilizer continued on its nearly 6-month-old path of extremely steady prices, according to retailers tracked by DTN for the third week of April 2013. But the explosion at a Texas fertilizer outlet is renewing safety concerns about the storage of certain fertilizer products.

Six of the eight major fertilizers were lower compared to last month, but these moves to the low side were fairly tiny, DTN's weekly survey of more than 330 retailer locations found. DAP had average price of $616 per ton, MAP $659/ton, potash $587/ton, urea $573/ton, 10-34-0 $613/ton and anhydrous $858/ton.  The remaining two fertilizer prices were higher compared to the third week of March, but again the move was extremely small. UAN28 had an average price of $402/ton and UAN32 $451/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.62/lb.N, anhydrous $0.52/lb.N, UAN28 $0.72/lb.N and UAN32 $0.70/lb.N.

DTN's survey found only one of the eight major fertilizers it tracks is showing a price increase compared to one year earlier. Anhydrous is now 12% higher compared to last year.  Four fertilizers prices are single-digit lower compared to April 2012. DAP is 3% lower, both MAP and UAN28 are down 3% and UAN32 is 7% lower compared to last year.  Three fertilizers are now down double digits from a year ago. Potash slid 11% while both urea and 10-34-0 are 22% less expensive.



Diesel prices continue to decrease

The U.S. average retail price for on-highway diesel fuel fell to $3.89 a gallon on Monday.  That’s down 5 1/2 cents from a week ago, based on the weekly price survey by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.  Diesel prices were highest in the New England region at 4.03 a gallon, down 7.8 cents from a week ago.  Prices were lowest in the Gulf Coast region at 3.80 a gallon, down a nickel.  The Midwest average diesel prices stands at $3.868, down 5.5 cents from last week and down 10.6 cents from a year ago. 

Gasoline prices inch down slightly
The U.S. average retail price for regular gasoline fell slightly to $3.54 a gallon on Monday.  That’s down 6-tenths of a penny from a week ago, based on the weekly price survey by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.  Pump prices were highest in the West Coast region at 3.84 a gallon, down 5.2 cents from a week ago.  Prices were lowest in the Gulf Coast States at 3.32 a gallon, down 3.9 cents.  Here in the Midwest, gas prices averaged $3.546 per gallon, up 9 cents on the week but down 22.8 cents from a year ago. 



Flooding Leads to Closure of Mississippi River

The Mississippi River remains closed as authorities work to determine whether a sunken barge was a navigation hazard.  The Coast Guard closed the river Sunday after the old U.S. Highway 80 railroad bridge was struck by barges that broke free from a string under tow, reports the Associated Press.  Authorities say about 30 barges broke free and at least one sank.

The Coast Guard says three others had been nudged against the river bank and the remaining barges have been rounded up.  The barges were being pushed by the boat Captain Buck Lay, which the Coast Guard says is owned by Memco Barge Line Inc.



Valmont Announces First Quarter 2013 Results

Valmont Industries, Inc., Omaha, reported first quarter sales of $819.6 million compared with $717.4 million for the same period of 2012. First quarter 2013 operating income was $118.2 million versus $82.8 million in 2012. First quarter net income was $77.6 million versus $52.3 million in 2012, which resulted in an increase in quarterly diluted earnings per share from $1.96 in 2012 to $2.89 in 2013.

During the quarter, the company divested a non-consolidated South African subsidiary. As a consequence, a $3.2 million benefit, ($0.12 earnings per share), was realized due to the release of certain deferred tax liabilities and corresponding reduction in tax expense. This reduced the first quarter corporate tax rate to 31.0%. On February 4, 2013, the company acquired Australian based Locker Group, a manufacturer of perforated and expanded metal and access systems. In addition, the first full quarter of results from the December 2012 acquisition of Pure Metal, a Canadian galvanizing operation, were realized during the quarter. Management estimates the positive collective impact of the above items on first quarter revenue and diluted earnings per share were approximately $19.8 million and $0.07 per-share respectively.

Two of Valmont's segments, Utility Support Structures and Irrigation, each had 25% year-over-year sales increases. Sales growth was also realized in our Engineered Infrastructure Products and Coatings segments, in part due to acquisitions.

Quarterly operating income rose primarily due to increased volumes combined with favorable mix in the Utility Support Structures and Irrigation Segments, where strong demand allowed efficient use of our manufacturing facilities.

Quarterly operating income as a percent of net sales increased to 14.4% from last year's 11.5%, driven by higher gross profit margins and volume leverage.

In the irrigation divison, center pivot and linear move mechanized irrigation equipment and parts for agriculture in global markets.

Sales rose 25% to $244.7 million, primarily led by increased North American demand. Historically high crop commodity prices and farm income helped drive record first quarter sales. Following last summer's severe drought in North America, heightened appreciation of the benefits of mechanized irrigation lent additional support to demand.

In international markets, sales increased, although at a lower rate than in North America. Strong global crop demand and historically high farm income levels contributed to the sales increase.

The long-term drivers for the irrigation market remain compelling. World population growth and dietary improvement create a need for increased food supplies. Limits to water availability create pressures on agriculture to reduce its share of water use. Valmont's mechanized irrigation equipment helps address these global dilemmas by improving farm production and using water more efficiently.

Operating income grew 42% to $54.6 million and was 22.3% of segment sales. The improvement in operating income was due to strong volumes and favorable margins.

"Our outlook for the Utility Support Structures Segment is improving for the year," said Mogens C. Bay, Valmont's chairman and chief executive officer. "As is always the case, Utility Support Structures operating margins may vary from quarter to quarter, depending on sales mix and the timing of shipments.

"In the Irrigation Segment, given the current backlog, we are expecting a strong second quarter. Second-half demand will largely be based on growing conditions, commodity prices and the expectations for farm income later in the year.

"In the Engineered Infrastructure Products Segment, we are moving into the seasonally stronger time of year. When combined with actions taken over the past few years to streamline costs, we expect improved sales and operating comparisons in the Engineered Infrastructure Products Segment for the rest of year.

"We expect Coatings Segment performance to improve over the balance of the year as we move to fully integrate the Pure Metal acquisition and expect improved demand in Australia.

"In summary, with the strong first quarter results, the continued strength in the utility markets and the anticipated improvement in Engineered Infrastructure Products, it should be possible for us to exceed our February guidance even if Irrigation results in the second half were below 2012's record second half levels," said Bay.

NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION, April  22,  2013 

For  the week  ending April  21,  2013,  cold  temperatures  combined with precipitation in the form of snow and rain to halt spring fieldwork, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Nebraska Field Office. Soil moisture  supplies  in  the  east  showed  improvement; however, western  counties  received  0.5  inch  or  less  of moisture  during  the week,  doing  little  to  build  soil  profiles.  Young calves  required  attention as wet  soils provided  few dry places  to  lie down.  In  addition,  temperatures which  averaged  9  to  15  degrees  below  normal,  stressed  the  new  arrivals.  The  cold  conditions  lowered  soil temperatures which  declined  into  the  low  40’s  and  upper  30’s  statewide.   Pastures  continued  to  show  little growth forcing producers to draw on already short forage supplies.  Planting activities were at a standstill with only 1.6 days  considered  suitable  for  fieldwork.   Statewide,  topsoil moisture  supplies  rated  10 percent very short, 31 short, 56 adequate, and 3 surplus.  Subsoil moisture supplies rated 49 percent very short, 41 short, 10 adequate, and 0 surplus.  
 
Field Crops Report:
Wheat conditions rated 13 percent very poor, 30 poor, 46 fair, 11 good, and 0 excellent. Wheat jointed was 5 percent, behind last year’s 56 and 18 average.  Oats planted were at 69 percent, behind last year’s 84 and 70 average.  Oats emerged were 18 percent, behind 47 last year and 26 average.    

Livestock, Pasture and Range Report:
Stock water supplies rated 8 percent very short, 23 short, 69 adequate, and  0  surplus.   Hay  and  forage  supplies  rated  26  percent  very  short,  45  short,  29  adequate,  and  0  surplus. Cattle and calves condition rated 0 percent very poor, 3 poor, 21 fair, 65 good, and 11 excellent. Spring calving was 84 percent complete.  

Access the National publication for Crop Progress and Condition tables at: http://usda01.library.cornell.edu/usda/nass/CropProg//2010s/2013/CropProg-04-22-2013.txt

Access the High Plains Region Climate Center for Temperature and Precipitation Maps at: http://www.hprcc.unl.edu/maps/current/index.php?action=update_region&state=NE&region=HPRCC

Access the U.S. Drought Monitor at: http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/DM_state.htm?NE,HP



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition, April 22, 2013

Wet  conditions  in  Iowa  during  the  week  ending  April  21,  2013 continued  to  limit  fieldwork  according  to  the  USDA,  National Agricultural  Statistics  Service.    Snow was  received  in  northern  Iowa, while  precipitation was mostly  rain  in  southern  Iowa.   The  additional moisture  did  help  to  improve  both  top  and  subsoil  moisture  levels.  Statewide there was an average of 0.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week.  

Topsoil  moisture  levels  rated  3  percent  very  short,  6  percent  short, 60 percent  adequate  and  31  percent  surplus.    Subsoil moisture  levels rated 14 percent very  short, 32 percent  short  and 48 percent  adequate and 6 percent surplus.  

Oat planting was 22 percent complete, far behind last year’s 93 percent and the five-year average of 68 percent.  

Pasture and range condition rated 18 percent very poor, 27 percent poor, 38  percent  fair  and  15  percent  good  and  2  percent  excellent.    Spring calving losses were higher than normal due to the wet and cool weather.
  


IOWA PRELIMINARY WEATHER SUMMARY
Provided by Allan Curtis, Assistant Climatologist, Midwestern Regional Climate Center 

The past week varied greatly across  the state  for both  temperature and precipitation.    Precipitation  was  widespread  early  in  the  week,predominantly on Wednesday (17th) and Thursday (18th), with areas  in south-central,  southeast,  and  east-central  Iowa  receiving  widespread totals of 4-5  inches or more of rain.   The greatest  rainfall  totals during the week came from Pella with 8.71 inches, and the greatest 1-day total was  6.76  inches  in Centerville  on Wednesday  (17th).   While  rain  fell early  in  the week  for most  of  Iowa,  snow  fell  in  northwest  Iowa  late Wednesday  (17th)  through  Thursday  (18th).    The  resulting  snowfall totals  were  in  the  neighborhood  of  4-6  inches  in  northwest  Iowa including  8  inches  reported  over  two  days,  Wednesday  (17th)  and Thursday  (18th),  in Sibley.     The  statewide  precipitation  for  the week was  one  of  the wetter  ones  in  recent  history with  2.79  inches,  nearly tripling the normal of 0.96 inches.    Temperatures across the state were well below normal with the western half of Iowa  taking  the brunt of  the unseasonably cold  temperatures  to the tune of 12 to 15 degrees below normal for the week.  Statewide, the average  temperature  was  39.3  degrees,  12.1  degrees  below  normal.  Southeast Iowa was the closest to normal at -8.7 degrees below normal.  The worst of the cold came mid-week when large areas of western Iowa saw  temperatures  as  much  as  20  degrees  below  normal.    All  of  the warmest  temperatures  during  the week  occurred  on Monday  (15th)  or over the weekend, Saturday (20th) and Sunday (21st), when temperatures were  in  the mid-70s.   The  highest  temperature was  77 degrees  at Mt. Pleasant on Monday (15th) and the lowest temperature was 11 degrees at Sibley on Saturday (20th).    Four  inch soil  temperatures during week averaged  in  the upper 30’s  in the  northwest  to  the  upper  40’s  in  the  southeast  as  of  Sunday  (21st).  One  day  soil  temperatures,  as  of  Sunday  (21st),  showed  temperatures recovering  from  the  mid-week  chill  with  low  40’s  in  the  northwest ranging to low 50’s in the southeast.



Drought Falls Below 50 Percent for First Time in 10 Months

The area of the contiguous United States in moderate drought or worse fell below 50 percent for the first time since June 2012, according to the latest edition of the U.S. Drought Monitor.

Heavy precipitation across the Plains and the upper Midwest continued to ease drought. The area of the lower 48 states in moderate drought or worse declined to 47.82 percent, from 50.82 percent a week ago.

"We’ve been on a steady but slow recovery path from drought since the peak in September 2012," said Mark Svoboda, University of Nebraska-Lincoln climatologist and a founding author of the Monitor. "We've seen a much more active weather pattern lately across the midsection of the country, which has been eroding the intensity of drought as we head into spring. This is exactly what we needed."

Svoboda, the head of the Monitoring Program area at the National Drought Mitigation Center based at UNL, cautioned that improvement is still needed before the hot, dry season sets in.

Drought Monitor authors synthesize many drought indicators into a single map that identifies areas that are abnormally dry, in moderate drought, in severe drought, extreme drought and exceptional drought.

In the Midwest, heavy rains soaked into thawing soils and reduced drought in Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin and Missouri, observed this week’s narrative accompanying the Drought Monitor map. The area of the Midwest in moderate drought or worse declined to 20.94 percent from 32.24 percent the preceding week, according to statistics released with the map.

In the Plains, drought receded in eastern Oklahoma, eastern Kansas, extreme eastern Nebraska and the Nebraska Panhandle, and most of the Dakotas. An area of exceptional drought, the worst category of drought, was eliminated from South Dakota. Heavy rains also improved conditions in Georgia, South Carolina and Florida. But decent precipitation eluded Texas and Arizona, which were among the few areas where drought got worse.

The U.S. Drought Monitor map is jointly produced by the National Drought Mitigation Center at UNL, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and about 350 drought observers across the United States. The map is released each Thursday based on data through the previous Tuesday morning.

Statistics for the percent area in each category of drought are automatically added to the U.S. Drought Monitor website each week for the entire country and Puerto Rico, for the 48 contiguous states, for each climate region, and for individual states. Data is archived to January 2000.



Forecast for Warmer, Drier Planting Weather Soon

Following a couple weeks of below normal, wet conditions, State Climatologist Al Dutcher says there's another chance for 0.1-0.5 inch of rain Monday, followed by warmer, drier conditions April 23-29. Next week temperatures will climb into  the 50s to 60s with the possibility of scattered light rains.

Overall, it should be the first real opportunity for widespread planting this spring.

Dutcher says many areas of the state are now showing moisture down to 2 feet. Depending on the soil, it often takes several days after a rain for moisture to move down in the profile.

Get daily updates of precipitation and soil temperatures — taken at 4 inches below the soil surface at midnight — on CropWatch.unl.edu/weather.  As the season progresses watch for daily GDD and Et updates for multiple sites across the state.



Don’t Till Wet Soils
Paul Jasa, UNL Extension Engineer

With the cool, wet spring this year, many producers may be tempted to head to the field sooner than they should. Some may feel they need to till the soil to dry it out and aid soil warming. Unfortunately, tilling or driving on a wet soil is the primary causes of soil compaction. Too often, when soils are tilled wet, clods may be formed that require additional tillage operations to break them up. This tillage also destroys soil structure and packs the soil below the tillage depth, forming a compaction layer that causes problems with water infiltration and root penetration.

A drier soil is more suited to support the weight of the tillage equipment and tractors and is less likely to compact. However, tillage still destroys soil structure and the soil surface will stay wetter, longer the next time it rains. Without soil structure, subsequent trips over the field will cause additional compaction.

Even with no-till, waiting a day or two for the soil to dry out some will provide better soil conditions for stand establishment. As soil structure improves with continuous no-till, water infiltrates better into the soil and wet soil problems are greatly reduced.

Shallow Corn Planting Can Hinder Root Development
With the later planting season this year, some producers may consider planting shallower to get the crop up quicker. Unfortunately, the corn roots may not develop properly when planting too shallow and the stands may not grow uniformly. To develop a good root system and more consistent stand, plant corn 2 to 3 inches.

Most corn planters are designed for at least a 2-inch planting depth. When running at least 2 inches deep the openers cut through the residue and soil better and form a better seed-vee.

When planting shallower than 2 inches, the angled closing wheels on many planters pack the soil below the seed and don’t properly close the seed-vee. This problem is worse in wet conditions as the wet soils are easily compacted, reducing the penetration ability of the corn roots. When the soil dries, it shrinks some and, depending on the clay content, the seed-vee may open up, drying the soil around the seed even faster. If the seed-vee was smeared some at planting time, this smeared surface will bake hard, making root penetration even more difficult. Even if the corn was planted at least 2 inches deep, soil smearing and seed-vee opening may still be a problem if the corn was “mudded in.” Waiting for proper soil conditions can help ensure your corn gets a steady start.

Also, when planting shallow, the seed zone is more likely to dry out. While the soil may have been fairly wet at planting, the top layer of soil dries fairly quickly. If there is an extended warm, dry period after planting, there may not be enough soil moisture in the seed zone to get all the seeds germinated uniformly. Some plants may get started early while other seeds are waiting for a rain for enough moisture to germinate. Worse yet are the seeds that germinate then die because they didn’t have enough soil moisture to establish a plant. Planting deeper provides a more buffered soil moisture for a more uniform emergence and more moisture to get the plants established. The soil temperature is also more buffered, resulting in more uniform growth.



For Increased Yields Plant Soybeans in Next Few Weeks
Jim Specht, UNL Professor of Agronomy and Horticulture

It’s the third week of April and the welcomed moisture we received has halted any corn planting progress from the first week of April. Often soybean planting is delayed until after corn planting is complete so it’s important to realize how planting date affects soybean yield.

Since 2005 UNL has conducted research on early and late planted soybeans. UNL research conducted by UNL soybean physiologist Jim Specht and funded by the Nebraska Soybean Board found that producers could lose 1/4 to 5/8 of a bushel per day for every day planted after May 1. The amount of yield lost depended on whether the spring was cold (1/4 bu) or warm (5/8 bu). Their research also found that a soybean plant acquires a new node every 3.75 days once the plant reaches V1.

Because producers wanted to know if planting date made a difference in their fields, UNL Extension conducted on-farm research with producers to test the yield differences of early versus late planted soybeans. “Early” were planted April 18 to May 3 and “late” were planted May 14 to May 24.

From 2008 to 2010 the early planted soybeans always out-yielded the later planted soybeans by 1-10 bu/ac, regardless of whether the spring was cold and wet or warm and dry.

When yields from all locations for the three years were averaged, early planted soybeans showed a significant yield increase of nearly 3 bu/ac (Table 1). For research consistency, both the early- and late-planted fields were treated with a fungicide-insecticide seed treatment. We do recommend a fungicide and insecticide seed treatment with early planted soybean, especially in a cool, wet spring like we're experiencing this year.

So why does early planting produce a higher yield in soybeans? The soybean crop needs to collect as much of the seasonally available solar radiation as possible because plants require the energy of sunlight to convert carbon dioxide into carbohydrates, protein, and lipids (oils).

With earlier planting, a soybean crop canopy will cover the ground sooner in the growing season, collecting nearly all of the incoming sunlight from that day forward. The longest day of the growing season is June 21. The soybean crop needs to harvest as much sunlight as possible to create pods, seeds, and ultimately yield, and to do that, its leaves have to start collecting sunlight as soon as possible. The goal for a Nebraska soybean producer each year should be to “Have the soybean canopy green to the eye by the 4th of July.” Later planted soybean crops will be deprived of the opportunity to collect as many hours of sunlight as earlier planted crops, and thus will invariably have less yield potential.

Planting Risks
Today's soybean varieties have much greater germination cold tolerance than older varieties. This is why producers can now push the limits of early planting by sowing the new varieties into 40°F rather than 50°F seedbeds. Germination failure in early planting is not so much due to cold temperature, but rather soggy wet conditions coupled with cold temperatures immediately after planting. Soggy soil conditions favor fungal pathogens and, if accompanied by cooler temperatures that slow soybean seed germination, can give pathogens a favorable environment and more time to infect the seedlings before they emerge. The yield reward from early planting should not be used as a reason to plant seed into seedbeds that are too wet to plant.

With the strange April weather we’ve had, you may also wonder about frost risk. The key to assessing risk is to consider expected date of seedling emergence rather than seeding date, since damage only occurs when emerged soybean tissue is exposed to freezing air temperature of 32°F. Soybean typically emerges in 7-10 days (although we’ve seen that vary depending on year). Planting 7-10 days earlier than the percent frost risk factor for which you are comfortable is a good rule of thumb.

Planting Recommendations
Based on five years of research, UNL’s recommendation is for producers to plant their soybeans earlier than they traditionally have. A good guideline is for the southern two-thirds of the state to plant in the last week of April and the northern third of the state to plant the first week of May. Use a fungicide plus insecticide seed treatment to reduce insect and disease risk. When planting rainfed soybeans early, extend the growing season to take advantage of August rains. Change to a quarter or half longer relative maturity (RM) than you would use for a later May planting.

With corn planting to resume full-speed when soil conditions are right, soybean planting may be delayed. This can cost you  yield. Some producers have found that the extra yield pays for itself in hiring someone to custom plant soybeans while they plant corn. Consider penciling this out for your operation. The increased yield benefit of planting early with a custom planter or designating one of your planters to beans may pay for you as well!



Free Farm Finance Clinics for May

One-on-one, confidential Farm Finance Clinics are held across the state each month. An experienced ag law attorney and ag financial counselor will be available to address farm and ranch issues related to financial planning, estate and transition planning, farm loan programs, debtor/creditor law, water rights, and other relevant matters.

Clinic Sites and Dates
-    Norfolk – Thursday, May 2
-    Grand Island – Thursday, May 2
-    Valentine – Friday, May 3
-    Norfolk – Thursday, May 9
-    North Platte – Thursday, March 16
-    Lexington – Thursday, March 21

To sign up for a clinic or to get more information, call Michelle at the Nebraska Farm Hotline at 1-800-464-0258.

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture and Legal Aid of Nebraska sponsor these clinics.



USMEF’s Seng Briefs Japanese Media on TPP, U.S. Red Meat Exports

The importance of the U.S.-Japanese economic relationship, particularly as it relates to U.S. agriculture and red meat exports, was highlighted by U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Philip Seng in an address before a packed media audience in Tokyo Friday morning.

“On Feb. 1, 2013, Japan rationalized its import restrictions to allow beef imports from U.S. cattle less than 30 months of age,” said Seng. “The United States appreciates the action and the way this was handled (by Japan). We appreciate how smoothly the process has gone thus far. The U.S. beef industry is committed to the Japanese market and looks forward to an even closer partnership.”

This change in Japan’s policy on beef imports is expected to contribute to a 45 percent increase in U.S. beef exports to that nation in 2013. In 2012, Japan purchased 152,763 metric tons (336.8 million pounds) of U.S. beef muscle cuts and variety meat valued at $1.03 billion.

At the same time, Japan remains the No. 1 value market and No. 2 volume market for U.S. pork, buying 455,776 metric tons (just over 1 billion pounds) valued at nearly $2 billion last year. Seng noted that while volatile weather trends can affect livestock feed costs and supplies, it is anticipated that the U.S. will see increased pork volumes available in the year ahead and continued solid pork exports to Japan, where U.S. pork has been the No. 1 imported pork for eight consecutive years.

Seng also addressed Japan’s involvement in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). Japanese Prime Minister Abe announced Japan’s commitment to join the TPP discussions on March 15, and less than a month later the U.S. offered its support for Japanese participation in TPP.

“TPP is often referred to in Japan as TPP mondai (question),” said Seng. “I like to call it TPP kikai (opportunity). The USMEF and our industry strongly endorse Japan’s participation in TPP. We stress that the last word in TPP is ‘partnership.’ We regard TPP as a partnership – a collaborative effort.”

The importance of TPP, Seng noted, is that its participants represent 40 percent of global wealth and one-third of global trade. But he acknowledged that there is some reluctance expressed by members of Japan’s agricultural sector.

“I have traveled extensively around the world, and Japanese food is reputed to be the most exquisite,” said Seng. “Everywhere, the concept of umami (distinctive yet subtle Japanese flavor) is in fashion. The United States, Europe, Canada, Australia, all around the world — countries would love to have the reputation that exists for Japanese food. This (TPP) is a huge opportunity for Japanese farmers to build on the excellent reputation of Japanese food with their farm products.”



Total Red Meat Production Up Slightly From Last Year

Total red meat production for the United States totaled 49.6 billion pounds in 2012, slightly higher than the previous year.  Red meat includes beef, veal, pork, and lamb and mutton.  Red meat production in commercial plants totaled 49.4 billion pounds.  On-farm slaughter totaled 113 million pounds.

Beef production totaled 26.0 billion pounds, down 1 percent from the previous year.  Veal production totaled 125 million pounds, down 8 percent from last year.  Pork production, at 23.3 billion pounds, was 2 percent above the previous year.  Lamb and mutton production totaled 161 million pounds, up 5 percent from 2011.

Commercial cattle slaughter during 2012 totaled 33.0 million head, down 3 percent from 2011, with federal inspection comprising 98.4 percent of the total.  The average live weight was 1,302 pounds, up 25 pounds from a year ago.  Steers comprised 49.8 percent of the total federally inspected cattle slaughter, heifers 28.6 percent, dairy cows 9.6 percent, other cows 10.3 percent, and bulls 1.7 percent.

Commercial calf slaughter totaled 772,100 head, 9 percent lower than a year ago with 98.4 percent under federal inspection.  The average live weight was 260 pounds, down 3 pounds from a year earlier.

Commercial hog slaughter totaled 113.2 million head, 2 percent higher than 2011 with 99.2 percent of the hogs slaughtered under federal inspection.  The average live weight was unchanged from last year, at 275 pounds.  Barrows and gilts comprised 97.0 percent of the total federally inspected hog slaughter.

Commercial sheep and lamb slaughter, at 2.18 million head, was up 1 percent from the previous year with 92.2 percent by federal inspection.  The average live weight was up 5 pounds from 2011 at 143 pounds.  Lambs and yearlings comprised 92.9 percent of the total federally inspected sheep slaughter.

There were 806 plants slaughtering under federal inspection on January 1, 2013 compared with 867 last year.  Of these, 627 plants slaughtered at least one head of cattle during 2012 with the 14 largest plants slaughtering 55 percent of the total cattle killed.  Hogs were slaughtered at 600 plants, with the 12 largest plants accounting for 57 percent of the total.  Likewise, 5 of the 206 plants that slaughtered calves accounted for 57 percent of the total and 3 of the 507 plants that slaughtered sheep or lambs in 2012 comprised 60 percent of the total head.   

Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and Texas accounted for 49% percent of the United States commercial red meat production in 2012, similar to 2011.
(State (million pounds)  -  2012   -   2011)
Nebraska .................:  7,285.1  -  7,163.9
Iowa .........................:  6,638.2  -  6,591.8
Kansas .....................:  5,274.2  -  5,341.1
Texas .......................:  5,013.9  -  5,143.2



CNBC SENIOR ANALYST RON INSANA MODERATES DISCUSSION ON BIOTECH SEEDS AT THE FOOD DIALOGUES℠: CHICAGO

The U.S. Farmers  & Ranchers Alliance® (USFRA®) today convened a panel of experts from multiple disciplines, including farmers, media, industry and academia,  to answer some of the toughest questions surrounding GMOs. This discussion was moderated by CNBC Senior Analyst and Financial Industry Expert Ron Insana at The Food Dialogues℠: Chicago, which took place during the 2013 BIO International Convention. During the panel, “The Straight Story on Biotech in Agriculture: The Media and its Impact on Consumers,” panelists addressed what more can be done to give consumers access to important information about the use of biotech seeds (GMOs) in agriculture.

"The Food Dialogues is a signature event series that was designed by USFRA to answer the tough questions about agriculture,” said Bob Stallman, USFRA chairman and president of the American Farm Bureau Federation. “Biotechnology is a topic that many people have questions about and it’s important that USFRA provides sources of information to consumers – whether at events like today’s The Food Dialogues panel or online on our Facebook page and website. We look forward to our next event in Chicago where we’ll look at the topic of transparency.”

Today’s panel discussion, which streamed live online, was moderated by Ron Insana and featured opening remarks from Congressman Rodney Davis (R-Illinois) and Robert Flider, acting director of the Illinois Dept. of Agriculture. Panelists included:
·    Dr. Bob Goldberg, plant molecular biologist currently using genomics to identify all of the genes required to "make a seed,” UCLA
·    Emily Anthes, journalist and author, Frankenstein's Cat
·    Jerry Slocum, Mississippi soybean farmer
·    Melinda Hemmelgarn, M.S., R.D., freelance writer, speaker, columnist and radio host, Food Sleuth
·    Michael Olson, Producer/Host, Food Chain Radio
·    Pam Johnson, Iowa corn farmer
·    Steve Smith, Chairman, SaveOurCrops.Org

To watch a full replay of today’s panel discussion or for more information on GMOs and agriculture, visit fooddialogues.com. To register for The Food Dialogues: Chicago at Kendall College taking place on June 19, visit fooddialogues.com. Follow USFRA on Twitter @USFRA using #FoodD or on its Facebook page, www.facebook.com/usfarmersandranchers.



USDA Cold Storage Highlights

Total red meat supplies in freezers were up 3 percent from the previous month and up 4 percent from last year. Total pounds of beef in freezers were up 5 percent from the previous month and up 2 percent from last year. Frozen pork supplies were up 2 percent from the previous month and up 6 percent from last year. Stocks of pork bellies were up 20 percent from last month but down 22 percent from last year.

Total frozen poultry supplies on March 31, 2013 were down 2 percent from the previous month but up 7 percent from a year ago. Total stocks of chicken were down 4 percent from the previous month but up 8 percent from last year. Total pounds of turkey in freezers were up 2 percent from last month and up 7 percent from March 31, 2012.

Total natural cheese stocks in refrigerated warehouses on March 31, 2013 were up 3 percent from the previous month and up 5 percent from March 31, 2012.  Butter stocks were up 7 percent from last month and up 22 percent from a year ago.

Total frozen fruit stocks were down 9 percent from last month but up 6 percent from a year ago.  Total frozen vegetable stocks were down 9 percent from last month but up 6 percent from a year ago.



Brazil's Ports Go 24 Hours

Brazil's principal grain-exporting ports will start working 24 hours, the federal ports secretariat declared last week.

The news was greeted with applause from soybean exporters, for whom the massive lines of ships waiting to load and subsequent delays cost fortunes, and from farmers, who ultimately foot the bill for Brazil's logistical inefficiency.

The announcement may also be met with bemusement from casual observers abroad, who imagined that Brazilian ports were already working 24/7 like most major commodities hubs across the world.

While most terminals operated day and night, nocturnal port movement was limited by the fact most port officials kept office hours. Customs inspectors, sanitation officials, federal police and port authorities typically work 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. As a result, if a grain shipment was only finished after 5 p.m., the ship would not leave port until the next day, not only delaying that ship's journey but the docking of the next vessel.

The new rules will be applied at Santos and Rio ports this week and at Paranagua and Rio Grande ports from May 3.



Second Release of Newly Converted Sorghum Lines Made Available to Seed Industry

The Sorghum Checkoff in collaboration with MMR Genetics (NuSeeds America) and USDA-Agricultural Research Service have released 50 new sources of sorghum germplasm through the reinstated Sorghum Conversion Program.

This is the program’s second of three scheduled releases of sorghum germplasm. In June 2012, the program released 44 converted lines that were distributed to 12 public and private entities engaged in sorghum breeding for the development of new and better hybrid lines of sorghum.

The reinstated sorghum conversion program releases make more of the world’s inventory of sorghum genetics available to public and private breeding programs. The material released provides a brand new source of germplasm with potential yield-improving benefits among other desirable genetic traits. Breeding companies can capture potential traits from this new release of germplasm to incorporate into their current sorghum lines to improve the crop’s productivity.

“The introduction of new genetic sources to the sorghum industry is important in the development of better sorghum hybrids” said Justin Weinheimer, Sorghum Checkoff crop improvement program director. “This program serves farmers by providing new germplasm to public and private breeding programs who can take this material, incorporate it into their existing programs, and get improved sorghum seed to farmers’ fields.”



Dairy Situation and Outlook, April 22, 2013
Bob Cropp, Professor Emeritus University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension

A year ago milk production was running strong, the result of more milk cows and increases in milk per cow. March milk production was 4.3% higher than the year before and 4.2% higher January through March daily adjusted. USDA, NASS has ceased their monthly milk production report showing milk cow numbers and milk per cow but continues its estimated total milk production for 23 states and the U.S. For March USDA estimated milk production to be 0.1% lower than a year ago with U.S. milk production unchanged. Milk production continues to be lower for most Western states with production down 2.8% for Arizona, 3.3% for California, 2.9% for New Mexico and 4.1% for Texas. Idaho had a small increase of 0.5%. For the Northeast milk production was up 1.8% higher for New York, 0.3% for Pennsylvania, 3.0% for Michigan and 2.3% for Ohio. In the Upper Midwest production was up 1.8% for Minnesota, 1.0% for Iowa, and 3.0% for Wisconsin.

USDA is now estimating milk production for the year to total 201.8 billion pounds, 0.7% more than 2012 unadjusted for the extra day in February 2012 or 1.0% adjusted. An annual milk production growth of less than 2% is positive for milk prices especially with the level of anticipated dairy exports this year.

Not knowing what is happening to cow numbers it is not known whether the March milk production was due to more or less cows or changes in milk per cow. Cow numbers could be declining or at least not increasing as dairy cow slaughter thus far this year has been 5.0% higher than a year ago, and a year ago dairy cow slaughter was running 0.4% lower than the year before for this period. However, dairy cow slaughter has slowed for the past couple of weeks. Further, January dairy replacements expected to enter the dairy herd within the next months was 4% fewer than a year ago and average just 31.7 per 100 milk cows which is a little lower than the normal turnover of cows in the herd.

The latest dairy product report was for the month of February. Adjusting the production for 28 days in 2012 and comparing it to 2013 shows production was down 0.7% for butter, 2.2% for American cheese, 3.5% for total cheese and 12.1% for dry whey. While the production of nonfat dry milk was down 22.8% skim milk powder was up 128.6% in response to export potential.

Domestic sales of cheese are reported to be fair with butter sales strengthening. But beverage milk sales continue their downward trend. January sales compared to a year ago were 2.1% lower.

Dairy exports are starting out the year above year ago levels. Compared to a year ago exports were up 34% for butter, 9% for cheese, 37% for lactose, and 43% for whey protein concentrates. But, exports of nonfat dry milk/skim milk powder and dry whey were respectively 15% and 9%lower. Exports are anticipated to continue to improve as drought in New Zealand has cut their seasonal milk production short and milk production is running lower in Argentina and Australia with production also lower for most EU countries. With this level of milk production in the major exporting countries we can expect exports of nonfat dry milk/skim milk powder and dry whey to also run above year ago levels by summer. With tighter world supplies world prices of dairy products are increasing which will help U.S. exports.

Despite lower dairy product production stocks of dairy products grew from the end of January to the end of February. These increases were as follows: butter 16%, American cheese 3.7%, total cheese 3.8%, nonfat dry milk 13.6% and dry whey 9.2%. Ending February stocks compared to a year ago were as follows: butter +17.1%, American cheese +5.1%, total cheese +4.5%, nonfat dry milk +16.5% and dry whey +38.7%. Stocks normally do increase as we approach May and early summer reflecting the spring flush in milk production.

Dairy product prices have shown real strength in recent weeks reflecting anticipation of continued growth in domestic sales and favorable exports. CME butter was $1.575 per pound the beginning of March and improved to $1.7875 by April 19th. CME cheddar barrels were $1.56 per pound the beginning of March and improved to $1.77 by April 19th. CME cheddar blocks were $1.575 per pound the beginning of March and improved to $1.88 by April 19th. Nonfat dry milk has shown slight strength and is trading in the range of $1.54 to $1.68 per pound. Dry whey prices are steady trading in the range of $0.53 to $0.59 per pound.

Stronger dairy product prices are adding strength to milk prices. The Class III price was $16.93 in March compared to $15.72 a year ago. The Class IV price was $17.75 compared to $15.53 a year ago. April prices will improve to near $17.65 for Class III and $18.30 for Class IV. Dairy futures continue to show strength for distant months. Class III futures are in the low to mid $19s from May through September and end in December at $18.30. Class IV futures are $20 plus from June through October and end in December at $19.40.

Based on existing milk production and market conditions, the Class III and Class IV futures seem quite reasonable. If the growth in milk production continues well below 1% and domestic sales and exports continue favorable, the Class III reaching even higher at $20 by summer or early fall is quite possible. In recent weeks corn and soybean prices have fallen. However, hay and soybean oil meal prices remain high. If crop conditions look good by mid-summer, feed prices will decline further. With higher milk prices and lower feed cost milk cow numbers could once again start to increase by late summer along with higher production per cow increasing the rate of growth in milk production and lowering milk prices at the end of the year and into 2014.



NASCAR Highlights Environmental Benefits of Ethanol this Earth Day

Yesterday, NASCAR™ launched a national commercial promoting its efforts to care for the environment. The NASCAR Green™ video, released to coincide with Earth Day, highlights all that the sport has done to reduce emissions by 20 percent and become the largest recycler in all of professional sports. In particular, the video highlights the important role that corn-based American Ethanol, an important component in Sunoco Green E15 powers every car in every race, plays in helping NASCAR continue its tradition of excellence while working toward a better tomorrow.

"We are excited to see this message, which will air for the rest of the NASCAR season, because it highlights the commitment that both NASCAR and U.S. corn farmers have to acting as good stewards of our environment," said National Corn Growers Association Corn Board Member Jon Holzfaster. "Every day, corn farmers rely on the land, air and water to grow a healthy, abundant crop which, through ethanol fuel blends, goes on to power our nation as it moves toward a greener tomorrow. Earth Day is all about positive change, and so are America's farmers and NASCAR."

To watch the video, click here... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1m8PsPgobZI. 

To increase awareness of the many benefits of ethanol, the National Corn Growers Association and Growth Energy formed the American Ethanol partnership with NASCAR in 2011. Over the past two seasons, every car in every NASCAR race has been powered by the 15 percent ethanol blend. The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, NASCAR Nationwide Series, and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series races have all showcased the incredible reliability and performance that 15 percent ethanol fuel blends offer.

While the partnership with NASCAR highlights the role American ethanol plays in improving the environment and NASCAR's commitment to doing so, the move to a 15 percent ethanol blend has also highlighted other benefits of this renewable, sustainable biofuel. The rigorous racing conditions have proven the durability and high performance capabilities of the fuel while also helping increase awareness of how ethanol creates jobs domestically and decreases dependence on imported petroleum.



MusicFest lineup set for World Pork Expo

The spotlight will shine on MusicFest at World Pork Expo on Thursday, June 6, as the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) presents world-class entertainment by Transit Authority and Little Texas. What has become the social highlight of World Pork Expo, MusicFest will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. along Grand Avenue on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. While music fills the air, attendees can enjoy free roasted pork and refreshments, as MusicFest is included in the price of admission to World Pork Expo.

“While the days at Expo are filled with seminars, shopping the trade-show floor, pig shows and much more, MusicFest allows producers and exhibitors to take time out to relax and enjoy some networking and plenty of mouth-watering barbecue,” says Doug Fricke, NPPC’s director of trade-show marketing. “Sharing an evening of friendship and good music is a welcome addition to the already-rich 25th-anniversary World Pork Expo experience.”

Three decades of music
Transit Authority, the premier tribute band to the iconic music group, Chicago, will kick off MusicFest at 4:30 p.m. This eight-piece ensemble features some of the Midwest’s most talented musicians, including the brass and strings that are so aligned with Chicago’s music. Here’s just a sampling of what you can expect to hear: “If You Leave Me Now,” “Saturday In The Park” and “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?” Transit Authority takes the audience through three decades of music and countless hits guaranteed to bring back memories and create a feel-good atmosphere.

High-energy modern country
Also celebrating its 25th anniversary, Little Texas will bring its high-energy brand of rockin’ country to MusicFest at 6 p.m. Known as the “hardest-working band in country music,” the GRAMMY®-nominated group’s original four members have reunited to perform classics that made them the Academy of Country Music’s Vocal Group of the Year in 1994. They also feature songs from their newest album that is changing the sound of modern country. Enjoy the timeless music of multi-platinum Little Texas as they take to the stage with “God Blessed Texas,” “What Might Have Been,” “Kick a Little” and other favorites.

So much more at World Pork Expo
“Whether you’re a pork producer, an employee or a visitor from another country, there is something for everyone at World Pork Expo,” says Randy Spronk, NPPC president and pork producer from Edgerton, Minn. “You can fill your days gathering information at seminars, visiting with fellow producers, or investigating new technologies and products. Then stop and enjoy a summer evening and some camaraderie at MusicFest.”

To receive a $10 early registration discount, go to www.worldpork.org and click on the “Register Today” icon. The website also has the latest details about room availability at the official Expo hotels and a schedule of activities. Regular updates are available when you connect with World Pork Expo on Facebook, follow World Pork Expo on Twitter (#NPPCWPX), or download the official app by searching for “World Pork” in the Apple Store, Android Market or Blackberry’s App World.

This year, World Pork Expo celebrates its 25th anniversary, June 5-7, at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. More than 400 commercial exhibits will be on display from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, June 5, and Thursday, June 6, as well as from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, June 7. The breeding stock sales will continue on Saturday, June 8, from 8 a.m. until they're completed (at approximately noon).

World Pork Expo, the world's largest pork-specific trade show, is brought to you by NPPC. On behalf of its members, NPPC develops and defends export markets, fights for reasonable legislation and regulation, and informs and educates legislators. For more information, visit www.nppc.org.



Raquel Gottsch Named to Multichannel News 40 Under 40 Most Influential List

Multichannel News has released it’s 2013 40 Under 40 list of most influential people in the TV and media industries.  Raquel Gottsch, Rural Media Group’s EVP of Marketing, has debuted on the annual list of the top movers and shakers under the age of 40.

The editors of Multichannel News chose the 40 movers and shakers under the age of 40 based upon recommendations, research and select criteria.  All of the individuals on the list have a proven history of helping their companies grow and succeed, while playing an important part in mapping the future of cable and telecommunications. According to Multichannel News, all of the individuals named have, “Come a long way in a relatively short time and continue to make invaluable contributions in their areas of expertise.”

At 28, Raquel Gottsch has been faithfully devoted to her network brands and media family since the first launch of RFD-TV, Rural America’s Most Important Network, in 2000.  For the past 8-years, Raquel has personally overseen all of Rural Media Group’s major marketing and broadcast events, including the Tournament of Roses Parade and RFD-TV’s award-winning float entries.

Throughout much of 2012, Raquel has been assisting her father, Founder and President of Rural Media Group, Patrick Gottsch, with acomplete network rebrand and the hiring of an all-new corporate team. Throughout her career, Raquel has served in a number of progressive media, communications and marketing roles.

Michael LaBroad, CMO for Rural Media Group, commented on the honor, stating, “Raquel Gottsch is a talented and gifted marketer for any age. She possesses the essential balance of strategic and creative skills while staying focused on the measurable objectives required in today's challenging business environment. In my 30-years of working with some of the best, Raquel stands out as a noteworthy success. She isn't just under 40, she is under 30, which really makes this recognition all the more impressive and sincere.”

NEBRASKA CATTLE ON FEED DOWN 4 PERCENT 

Nebraska feedlots, with capacities of 1,000 or more head, contained 2.42 million cattle on feed on April 1, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Nebraska Field Office. This inventory was down 4 percent from last year.  Placements during March totaled 400,000 head, down 9 percent from 2012.  Fed cattle marketings for  the month of March  totaled 400,000 head, down 13 percent  from  last year.   Other disappearance during March totaled 10,000 head, down 10,000 head from a year ago.

Iowa:
Cattle and calves on feed for slaughter market in Iowa for all feedlots  totaled 1,310,000 on April 1, 2013 according  to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service, Iowa Field Office.   The  inventory  is down 2 percent from March 1, 2013 and down 5 percent from April 1, 2012.  Feedlots with a capacity greater than 1,000 head had 630,000 head on feed, down 2 percent from  last month and down 6 percent  from  last year.   Feedlots with a capacity  less  than 1,000 head had 680,000 head on feed, down 1 percent from last month and down 4 percent from last year.

Placements during March totaled 131,000 head, an decrease of 6 percent from last month and down 2 percent from last year.    Feedlots  with  a  capacity  greater  than  1,000  head  placed  71,000  head,  unchanged  from  last  month  but  down 3 percent from last year.  Feedlots with a capacity less than 1,000 head placed 60,000 head. This is down 13 percent from last month but unchanged from last year.

Marketings for March were 145,000 head, up 18 percent from last month and up 1 percent from last year. Feedlots with a capacity greater  than 1,000 head marketed 77,000 head, up 13 percent from  last month and up 8 percent from  last year.   Feedlots with a capacity less than 1,000 head marketed 68,000 head, up 24 percent from last month but down 7 percent from last year. Other disappearance totaled 6,000 head.

United States Cattle on Feed Down 5 Percent
Cattle and calves on feed for slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 10.9 million head on April 1, 2013. The inventory was 5 percent below April 1, 2012. The inventory included 6.91 million steers and steer calves, down 4 percent from the previous year. This group accounted for 63 percent of the total inventory. Heifers and heifer calves accounted for 3.93 million head, down 8 percent from 2012.

Placements in feedlots during March totaled 1.90 million, 6 percent above 2012. Net placements were 1.82 million head. During March, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 410,000, 600-699 pounds were 315,000, 700-799 pounds were 540,000, and 800 pounds and greater were 634,000.

Marketings of fed cattle during March totaled 1.77 million, 8 percent below 2012.  Other disappearance totaled 76,000 during March, 10 percent above 2012.


State by State data (1,000 head, % change from last year)
State    -    On Feed         -     Placements      -     Marketings  
NE       -     2.420, -4%    -      400,  -9%     -     400,  -13% 
IA        -     630, -6%       -        71,  -3%     -      77,  +8% 
KS       -     2,090, -4%    -      425,  +13%  -     360,  -9% 
TX       -     2,590,  -7%   -      540,  +26%   -     485,  +3%
CO      -       980, -8%     -      165,  +3%     -     165,  -6%



2013 Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award Recipient Named

Nebraska Cattlemen, Sand County Foundation and Cargill are proud to announce The Beel Ranch as the recipient of the 2013 Leopold Conservation Award, which honors Nebraska landowner achievement in voluntary stewardship and management of natural resources.

Celebrating 75 years on their nearly 22,000-acre cattle operation near Johnstown, brothers Frank, Henry and Adam, along with their wives Jennifer, Mary and Jenny own and operate The Beel Ranch. The ranch was handed down by their father and grandfather who instilled in them the importance of treating the land with care. Today, they make it a priority to teach their own children the importance of maintaining and caring for our natural environment.

Ranch records indicate that in 1945, grandfather Henry O. Beel entered into the first of many conservation plans for the ranch. It developed a soil and water plan allowing for rotational grazing, weed mowing, seeding of wheat and more thoughtful well placement.

Almost seven decades later, conservation and range management continues to play a crucial role in his grandsons’ management of The Beel Ranch. Their continuous improvements have allowed the land to be better utilized through their efficient rotational grazing system. Habitat for upland bird species, raptors and large game has increased at the same time.

"People on their own land who make commitments across the generations, as the Beel family is doing, are making decisions that benefit the land, wildlife and all of us,” said Brent Haglund, President, Sand County Foundation.

The Leopold Conservation Award is presented in honor of renowned conservationist and author Aldo Leopold, who called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage. Award applicants are judged based on their demonstration of improved resource conditions, innovation, long-term commitment to stewardship, sustained economic viability, community and civic leadership, and multiple use benefits.

The $10,000 award, and a crystal depicting Aldo Leopold, will be presented to the Beels at the  Nebraska Cattlemen’s Annual Convention in December.

"This is a prestigious award given to a Nebraska livestock producer for their commitment to the care and preservation of the land,” said Dale Spencer, Nebraska Cattlemen President. “Nebraska Cattlemen are proud to support these conservation-minded individuals as it is our responsibility to protect and preserve the land for future generations.”

"On behalf of Cargill’s customers and employees, we are proud to recognize The Beel Ranch for conservation that increases the sustainability of animal agriculture in the U.S.,” stated Jarrod Gillig, vice president and general manager at Cargill’s Schuyler, Neb., beef processing plant.  “Through effective land management that includes livestock grazing and preservation of wildlife habitats, The Beel Ranch is a shining example of best practices for cattle and beef production.”

The Leopold Conservation Award in Nebraska is possible thanks to generous contributions from many organizations, including: Cargill, Farm Credit Services of America, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Nebraska Cattlemen Research & Education Foundation, Nebraska Department of Agriculture, Nebraska Environmental Trust, Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, Nebraska Land Trust, Rainwater Basin Joint Venture, Sandhills Task Force, The Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation, The Nature Conservancy, and World Wildlife Fund.



NCBA Files Petition in Supreme Court Against Greenhouse Gas Regulations

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) along with the Coalition for Responsible Regulation filed a petition yesterday in the United States Supreme Court (Supreme Court) challenging the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) finding that greenhouse gases (GHG) endanger public health and welfare, its rule to limit GHG from passenger vehicles and its “timing” and “tailoring” rules that govern GHG permit applicability at stationary sources.

In December 2009, EPA issued a finding that GHGs are an “endangerment” to public health and the environment—providing EPA with a foundation from which to regulate GHGs under the Clean Air Act (CAA), from small and large sources throughout the economy, including farming and ranching operations. NCBA filed a petition with the District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals and EPA challenging the science behind EPA's finding. The D.C. court dismissed the challenge in June of last year. The court also denied challenges to EPA's endangerment finding for greenhouse gases and subsequent emissions standards for cars and light-duty trucks.

“We have already seen many actions by this administration’s EPA that proves they believe they are above the law. Forcing these greenhouse gas regulations upon Americans, including hard-working cattlemen and women is yet another example of this. We remain hopeful that bringing this issue to the highest court in the nation, the U.S. Supreme Court, will put a stop to the aggressive agenda-driven bullying by EPA,” said NCBA Deputy Environmental Counsel Ashley McDonald.

McDonald added that NCBA originally challenged EPA and the GHG regulations in court in order to take regulatory rulemaking power away from those sitting behind desks in a federal agency and place it back into the hands of the American people.

“The Clean Air Act is not an appropriate vehicle to regulate greenhouse gases and we are certain this manipulation of the Act goes against congressional intent. Once again, EPA continues to promulgate regulations which have a negative impact on producers’ ability to provide safe and affordable food for our nation and the world,” said McDonald. “Cattlemen have a vested interest in protecting the environment and caring for their land. However, these overreaching regulations must be curtailed. We hope the Supreme Court realizes this and puts a stop to EPA’s ‘above the law’ actions.”



USDA March Milk Production down 0.1 Percent
                       
Milk production in the 23 major States during March totaled 16.4 billion pounds, down 0.1 percent from March 2012. February revised production at 14.7 billion pounds, was down 3.3 percent from February 2012. However, production was 0.2 percent above last year after adjusting for the leap year. The February revision represented an increase of 15 million pounds or 0.1 percent from last month's preliminary production estimate.

January - March Milk Production down 1.1 Percent
Milk production in the United States during the January - March quarter totaled 50.5 billion pounds, down 1.1 percent from the January - March quarter last year.

State Q1 2013 Milk Production (million pounds, % change from Q1, 2012)
Nebraska ...:    298.0          -0.7%  
Iowa ..........:    1,136.0        0.4%  
Kansas ......:    721.0          7.0%

  

U.S. Soy Leads By Example in Soy Sustainability

Speaking on a world stage about the excellent sustainability performance of U.S. soy, Jim Carroll recently confirmed what he and the soy checkoff already knew: global customers demand soybeans and soy products produced in a sustainable manner.

Carroll, a soy checkoff farmer-leader from Brinkley, Ark., recently brought his farm expertise to South Africa, where he told attendees at the World Soybean Research Conference about the practices he's implemented to decrease his farm's carbon footprint while maintaining high productivity. Carroll says the conversations he had at the conference reinforced his notion that soy customers place a high priority on sustainability.

"Several people from around the world came to me after the presentation was over and asked me for more information about sustainability," said Carroll. "Sustainability is constantly gaining importance, and I am very honored to have had the chance share my experiences."

Many U.S. soy customers consider sustainability an important issue. The U.S. soy industry received good marks in several reports and studies conducted by the checkoff measuring the sustainability performance of various aspects of U.S. soy production. This makes the practices of U.S. farmers a good example for soybean operations in other countries.

Sustainability was one of many topics discussed at the conference, which brings together members from every link of the soy value chain. Participants heard presentations and discussed the geographic differences in growing, processing, transporting and marketing soybeans, soy meal and soy oil.

Recent polls of U.S. soybean farmers show they do their part to increase sustainability on their operations. More than 50 percent of farmers say they made changes to improve their farms' sustainability performance.

Carroll said, "I spoke with several people from both Africa and Europe who were very interested in how I increased efficiency and conserved water while irrigating." Overall, in the last 30 years, U.S. farmers have reduced energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, while increasing irrigation efficiency per bushel of soybeans by more than 40 percent.

"For me, sustainability is just about trying to make reasonable, economic and environmental decisions for my farming operation," Carroll said. "If you are a farmer today, chances are you already work to improve your farm's sustainability, whether you know it or not. All farmers want to make the best decisions possible for their land and operation."



User-Friendly Program Updates Phosphorus Management

A more comprehensive and consistent system for modeling phosphorus loss is now available, thanks to work by scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

This research, led by Agricultural Research Service scientist Peter Vadas, supports the USDA priority of promoting international food security. ARS is USDA's chief intramural scientific research agency

The Phosphorus Index was originally a simple management tool developed to gauge the risk of phosphorus losses from agricultural fields. The original index has since been modified by individual states to incorporate local variations in soils, climate, management, and water quality goals. This resulted in widely different state-by-state phosphorus indices that were sometimes defined more by political boundaries than by watersheds or other regional variations.

To reduce these state-by-state discrepancies, Vadas and colleagues developed the Annual Phosphorus Loss Estimator (APLE), a user-friendly spreadsheet program that predicts field-scale phosphorus loss in runoff for a whole year. The revamped program can also be used in many different states to quantify field-scale phosphorus loss and soil phosphorus changes over 10 years for a given set of runoff, erosion, and management conditions.

The team showed that APLE could reliably quantify phosphorus losses in runoff for many different situations and could produce more reliable estimates than some existing phosphorus indexes. Vadas also has been adapting APLE to simulate phosphorus loss from pastures grazed by beef and dairy cattle, and from barnyards and exercise lots on cattle farms.

With these improvements, APLE can be used to develop whole-farm estimates of phosphorus losses and the most effective strategies for reducing phosphorus losses from cattle farms. These practices could include barnyard improvements for capturing discharge, soil conservation practices that reduce erosion, or manure application practices that reduce exposure to runoff water.

APLE is free to download with supporting technical documentation and a user's manual.

Herbicides to Control Weeds in Spring-Seeded Alfalfa
Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension Forage Specialist

Weeds can be a major problem in spring seeded alfalfa. Roundup Ready alfalfa varieties help overcome these weeds but Roundup isn't the only good herbicide option for alfalfa.

Alfalfa seedlings grow slowly. Many weeds grow faster than alfalfa seedlings, robbing them of moisture, nutrients, and light. Left uncontrolled, weeds can cause thin stands, weak plants, and lower yields.

Cropping practices that reduce weed seed production during the years prior to planting alfalfa help reduce weeds when you finally do plant alfalfa. And timely mowing reduces competition from many weeds. But often the only way to fully control weeds is by using herbicides.

Do you expect grasses like foxtail or crabgrass to be a problem in your new alfalfa? Then before seeding use a pre-plant incorporated herbicide, like trifluralin, Balan, or Eptam. These herbicides control grasses and many small-seeded broadleaf weeds like lambsquarter and kochia. Some larger-seeded broadleaves like velvetleaf and sunflower will not be controlled, but you can mow those weeds later for good control.

Maybe you can get your alfalfa started without any herbicides. Great! But if you have escapes, post-emerge herbicides like Buctril and 2,4-DB control broadleaves, Poast Plus and Select control grasses, and Raptor or Pursuit control a combination of weeds. They can rescue your alfalfa as long as weeds are sprayed before they get very tall.

As you know, always follow label directions for application rates and conditions.

Roundup may make it easier to control weeds in seedling alfalfa. But use these other herbicides correctly and your new alfalfa can get a good, clean, and fast start.



House Farm Bill Markup Confirmed

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Frank Lucas (R-OK) announced Thursday his intent to move forward May 15 with a farm bill markup. Although Republican leadership pressured the chairman to take more time and consider tougher changes in the food stamp program to gain more conservative votes, Lucas said he would still hold listening sessions first with the Republican whip’s office so as to maintain his schedule and produce a bipartisan bill with Ranking Member Collin Peterson (D-MN). Earlier this month, Senate Ag leadership expressed intent to markup their farm bill next week, but farm policy observers expect Senate Ag Committee action to be pushed into May, as well.



U.S., Brazil Partner on Statement on Innovation in Plant Biotechnology
ASA welcomed a joint statement from the U.S. and five like-minded nations this week expressing those governments’ mutual desire to pursue innovation in plant biotechnology.  Among other commitments, the statement shows an effort by the nations to "endeavor to work together to promote synchronization of [biotechnology trait] authorizations by regulatory authorities, in particular for food, feed and processing purposes."  Joining the U.S. on the statement are the governments of Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, and Paraguay, which combine to account for more than 86 percent of global soybean production.

See text of agreement below....

Joint Statement on Innovative Agricultural Production Technologies, particularly Plant Biotechnologies
Supporting Governments:   Australia, Brazil, Canada, Republic of Argentina, Republic of Paraguay, United States

Recognizing that agricultural production needs to substantially increase to meet global food, feed, fiber and energy demands in the face of population growth,

Understanding that innovative agricultural technologies need to continue to play a critical role in addressing these challenges, in contributing to increased food production in a sustainable way, and in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change,

Taking into account the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development and Agenda 21, which acknowledges that an increase in productivity will need to take place.

Emphasizing that regulatory approaches related to products derived from innovative agricultural technologies should be science-based, transparent, timely, no more trade restrictive than necessary to fulfill legitimate objectives, and consistent with relevant international obligations, including the WTO agreements on the Application of Sanitary and  Phytosanitary Measures and on Technical Barriers to Trade.

Our governments intend to work collaboratively to:
-  Promote the application of science-based, transparent and predictable regulatory approaches that foster innovation and ensure a safe and reliable global food supply, including the cultivation and use of agricultural products derived from innovative technologies;
-  Allow for the trade of such products, and minimize or remove unjustified barriers to trade where they exist;
-  Promote constructive dialogue on science based regulation and use of innovative agricultural technologies and;

With respect to plant biotechnology specifically:
·  Promote the utilization of and the development of regulations consistent with Codex Alimentarius Commission Principles for the Risk Analysis of Foods Derived from Modern Biotechnology and the Guideline for the Conduct of Food Safety Assessment of Foods Derived from Recombinant-DNA Plants and its annexes;
·  Encourage research and education efforts necessary to develop agricultural innovations that lead to new products and strategies that address the global challenges for production of abundant, safe and affordable food, feed, fiber, and energy in the 21st century;
·  Noting the importance of timely and efficient regulatory systems, endeavor to work together to promote synchronization of authorizations by regulatory authorities, in particular for food, feed and processing purposes;
·  Encourage biotechnology developers to submit timely dossiers to regulatory authorities to minimize asynchronous and asymmetric authorizations;
·  Collaborate in the development of domestic, regional and international approaches to facilitate the global management of low level presence of recombinant-DNA plant material, authorized in one or more countries, but not in the country of import;
·  Work cooperatively in international standard-setting bodies and in other international fora on issues related to plant biotechnology;
·  Support science-based assessments of food, feed and environmental safety; 
·  Encourage the timely sharing of information including using global databases to house public information on product authorizations.



T-TIP Puts US Farm Bill, EU CAP Reform on the Table

Sometimes there is a disconnect between domestic and international agricultural policy, and it is important to note that this problem is not unique to the United States. Negotiations on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (T-TIP) between the United States and the EU may begin as early as June. Negotiations on the Trans-Pacific Partnership are well advanced. At the same time, both the United States and EU are engaged in review and revision of domestic farm legislation that may have significant implications for pending and projected trade agreements. It is important for policymakers in both the United States and the EU to keep the international picture in mind as they tackle controversial issues.

This will be difficult. Farm policy is as contentious in the EU as in the United States. In Europe, for example, farmers and their trade associations are currently up in arms over the surprise decision to allow the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) direct payments for 2013 to be cut by 4.98 percent, an automatic cut that follows the "financial discipline mechanism" of the EU budget. Copa-Cogeca, the EU-wide organization representing European farmers and cooperatives, says that this late cut comes after farmers have done all their financial planning for 2013 and will create hardships for many. They say that the 40 million people employed in agri-food in the EU could also suffer as a result.

At the same time, negotiations began on April 11 between the European Parliament, European Commission and member nations on changes to the CAP. The members of the European Council have agreed on prospective changes, including a capping of direct payments to farmers, but the changes must now be translated into legislation. It will be no surprise to longtime observers of U.S. Farm Bills that criticism is flooding in from all directions. Eligibility for direct payments has been a particular problem, and the definition of "active farmer" is tricky, as in the past, direct payments have often flowed to industries including mining, transportation, real estate, airports, sports clubs, and camp grounds that are not generally considered to be in the farming businesses.

Environmental issues are another area in which U.S. farmers can probably identify with some of the frustrations of their European counterparts. The proposed CAP revisions would require farmers with more than ten hectares to establish a three percent "ecological focus area," with the set aside rising eventually to seven percent. Naturally, definitions and details can get complicated, as non-farming areas such as fallow land, terraces, hedgerows, ditches, stone walls, trees ponds, buffer strips and more can qualify as part of the focus area. In a further interesting twist, farmers will be able to plant within the focus area provided that they don't use any pesticides or fertilizers.

In general, European agriculture is intensively regulated to achieve a broad range of social and environmental objectives that significantly increase production costs, and European farmers are heavily subsidized to offset these costs. This raises very difficult questions about when such subsidies are appropriate compensation for legitimate social costs, versus trade distorting subsidies that function to box out import competition. The use of sanitary and phytosanitary regulation as non-tariff trade barriers is another longstanding issue. With T-TIP, CAP reform, and a U.S. Farm Bill all on the 2013 agenda, the trade policy arena is getting crowded, and complicated indeed.



Producers Focus on Export Efforts as New Opportunities Emerge

New opportunities and issues are emerging for U.S. Pork exports, and producers have prioritized key tactics to put more U.S. Pork on the world’s table.

“In challenging economic times, pork producers have had to become more efficient and find creative solutions,” says Tim Bierman, a wean-to-finish pork producer from Larrabee, Iowa, who chairs the National Pork Board’s International Trade Committee. “This is especially important in our international marketing.”

The stakes are high, with exports accounting for 27 percent of total U.S. pork production in 2012. The 24-member International Trade Committee, as well as staff from the U.S. Meat Export Federation and the National Pork Producers Council and other expert advisors, met earlier this spring to assess market opportunities, discuss market access challenges and review current U.S. Pork promotions around the world.

“Each year the committee goes through a prioritization process to divide resources among marketing and promotion, research, new product development, market access and international standard issues,” says Becca Hendricks, assistant vice president of international marketing for the Pork Checkoff. “A lot of strategic thinking goes into allocating Pork Checkoff dollars to protect market access, reduce tariffs and promote U.S. Pork.”

All Eyes Are on Asia
One of the top priorities is the Trans-Pacific Partnership, an Asia-Pacific trade negotiation that includes 11 countries and is designed to reduce tariffs and spur economic growth. Elimination of tariff and non-tariff barriers through this agreement could increase U.S. Pork sales by hundreds of millions of dollars.

Another urgent issue is the elimination of unjustified, non-science-based trichinae mitigation restrictions, such as freezing and testing of U.S. Pork. The odds of trichinae in the U.S. commercial pork supply are one in 300 million, according to Dr. Ray Gamble, president ex-officio of the International Commission on Trichinellosis. Pork Checkoff funding has supported the research and analysis on the negligible risk of trichinae in the U.S. commercial food supply and will now work with foreign markets to change standards based on this data.

Exports Boost Producers’ Profits
Ensuring market access helps build momentum for U.S. Pork exports, which have a direct impact on producers’ bottom lines. Key markets, such as Japan and Mexico, as well as expanding markets in Central and South America, helped U.S. Pork exports set a new value record in 2012, at $6.3 billion, according to statistics released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“We need to continue putting ourselves in these buyers’ shoes so we can understand their needs, increase export demand and focus on long-term, sustained growth,” Bierman says.

Increased demand for U.S. Pork will put more money in producers’ pockets, says Dr. Dermot Hayes, a professor of economics at Iowa State University. “Every $1 million increase in the value of U.S. Pork exports adds 6 cents per hundredweight to live hog prices.”



USFRA Biotechnology Event Features NCGA President

National Corn Growers Association President Pam Johnson will take part in a special Food Dialogues panel discussion on biotechnology next week in Chicago, hosted by the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance in conjunction with the BIO International Convention.

The April 22 USFRA program, "The Straight Story on Biotech in Agriculture: The Media and its Impact on Consumers," will consist of a panel of experts from multiple disciplines, including farmers, media, industry and academia, who will answer some of the toughest questions surrounding GMOs. Panelists will also discuss what more can be done by all sides - including those who are not in favor of this technology - to give consumers access to information that matters.

"GMOs are one area where we are seeing a lot of questions from consumers, and a lot of misinformation in the news media and newer social media," Johnson said. "As a farmer, I see the value of crop technology every day in the field, and it's important that we not only address concerns, but answer questions about how and why we do what we do on our farms."

A second Food Dialogues event is scheduled for June 19, also taking place in Chicago, with the broader theme of transparency. Both events will stream live online at www.fooddialogues.com.

Last week, the USFRA board of directors met in St. Louis for strategic planning and to review communications plans for the upcoming fiscal year. Mike Geske, a Missouri corn grower who sits on the NCGA Corn Board, is on the USFRA board's executive committee, and is very optimistic about the program's future.

"NCGA is very proud to be a founding affiliate of the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance, and I am thrilled to see what's in story this coming year," Geske said. "It was a privilege not only to take part in the planning process, but to announce to my fellow board members that NCGA is increasing its support for this movement in the next fiscal year. USFRA has come a long way in such a short time, and is serving as a strong rallying point for farmers, ranchers, and those who provide us the important tools and services we need."



Impact of China's Recent Bird Flu on Corn Demand May Not be Large

The impact of China's bird flu outbreak on poultry production and feed demand remains uncertain but may be less than initially feared. As reported last week, China's bird flu incidents saw live bird markets close around the Shanghai region and in South China. As cases spread to other regions such as Beijing and Henan, the effects of these closings and the reduction of poultry inventories will reduce feed consumption in the poultry industry. However, if consumers switch to pork instead of poultry meat, this will offset the losses in the poultry sector and reduce the net effect on feed demand.

"Since hogs are less efficient converters of feed to meat and use a higher proportion of energy feeds like corn, any substitution of pork for poultry that occurs will dampen the negative effect of reduced poultry production on feed demand, particularly corn," said Bryan Lohmar, U.S. Grains Council director in China. "Conversely, fish are more efficient converters and use less energy feed, so if consumers switch to fish this will help soybean increase demand a little, but not corn."

While there are no confirmed reports, there are suggestions that people may be substituting pork for poultry. Some shoppers who shun poultry will instead buy pork, and groups at restaurants may order two pork dishes rather than the more typical one chicken and one pork dish. Research has shown that pork is the primary substitute for chicken. There is also speculation that consumers are avoiding meat in general, which could have more negative implications for corn feed demand. Fish prices are however rising, an indication that consumers may be substituting fish for poultry, not pork.

The ultimate effect on feed demand will depend on the duration and geographical spread of the outbreak. So far, all but five cases have been found in Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang provinces, home to about 11 percent of China's population. The five additional cases have been found in Anhui (2), Henan (2) and Beijing (1), home to another 13 percent of China's population. If we assume these provinces represent also about 25 percent of China's poultry consumption, and about half the birds are slaughtered in these provinces over one month's time (a liberal assumption), then that would result in only a little more than a one percent reduction in poultry production. At a feed industry conference today in Chengdu, some poultry producers expressed the view that there is too much hype over the problem, and they are already getting ready to restock inventories.

If the virus continues for another month or two and spreads around the country, however, the effect would be more significant. China produces around 17 million metric tons of poultry meat, so a 5 percent reduction is 850,000 metric tons of meat. The birds at live markets tend to be "high quality" traditional varieties with far less efficient feed conversion than modern chickens in the west, roughly 4:1 live weight, or 5.3 to 1 feed to meat, with corn comprising about half of that feed. A 5 percent reduction in meat production would thus result in about 2.25 million tons (88.5 million bushels) reduction in corn feed demand, or only about 1.6 percent of China's 144 million tons (5.6 billion bushels) of corn feed demand for 2012/13 (USDA estimate), and 1.1 percent of USDA's estimated 207 million tons (8.1 billion bushels) 2012/13 total corn demand in China.

The substitution of pork for poultry that occurs is thus likely to limit any reductions in corn demand, and if a little more than half the poultry is substituted by pork, then corn feed demand will actually rise because of the higher corn input required to produce pork. The effect of pork substitution for poultry will be somewhat lagged; increased pork consumption today will raise pork prices and cause inventories to replenish faster than otherwise, resulting in more feed demand over the summer. However, if fish is the primary substitute, this will do little to increase corn feed demand, but would mitigate the fall in protein meal demand brought about by the lower poultry production.



Pork Cuts to Get New Consumer-Friendly Names in the Meat Case

Consumers will soon find more consumer-friendly names on packages of fresh pork cuts in retail meat cases across the country. The new names, such as the porterhouse pork chop, are designed to allow retailers to differentiate and merchandise pork cuts more effectively while aiding shoppers in selecting and preparing pork.

"The new names will help change the way consumers and retailers talk about pork," said National Pork Board President Conley Nelson. "But more importantly, the simpler names will help clear up confusion that consumers currently experience at the meat case, helping to move more pork in the long-term."

New Cut Names Backed by Research
Before the renaming process took shape, the National Pork Board and the National Cattlemen's Beef Association collaborated on in-depth research over an 18-month period. The research showed consumers are often confused by the different names for similar cuts of meat and, as a result, do not know how to cook a variety of cuts now available in the meat case.

To overcome this challenge, the National Pork Board is working to simplify pork cut names and include basic usage and preparation information on the package. Several cuts of pork will now match the names for similar beef cuts for easier consumer identification and preparation. New pork names to look for in the meat case include:
•        Pork Porterhouse Chop (previously a loin chop)
•        Pork Ribeye Chop, bone-in (previously a rib chop center)
•        Pork Ribeye Chop (previously a rib chop)
•        Pork New York Chop (previously a top loin chop)

The new cut names will eventually align with the foodservice industry as well to provide a consistent consumer perception of pork at restaurants and at home.
 
"Grill Pork Like a Steak"
Hand-in-hand with a simpler shopping experience comes simpler grilling advice.  As the new cut names suggest by their alignment with popular beef steak names, pork is a great choice for the grill - and consumers can cook pork chops just like their favorite steaks.  

"Research shows that consumers are buying cuts they are familiar with," said Patrick Fleming, director of retail marketing for the National Pork Board. "Now, once they get their New York chop or ribeye chop home, they can grill it in the way they're familiar with, too."

For medium-rare to medium chops, the National Pork Board recommends grilling to an internal temperature between 145 degrees Fahrenheit and 160 degrees Fahrenheit, followed by a three-minute rest. A digital cooking thermometer is recommended to help ensure an accurate final temperature.



Canadian Grain, Oilseed Estimates Unchanged

Production of the major grain and oilseed crops in Canada during the upcoming 2013-14 (August/July) crop year will be unchanged from what was projected in March, according to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

Ag Canada, in its update released Wednesday, estimated total grain and oilseed output in Canada during the 2013-14 season at 73.710 million metric tons, unchanged from its March projection. In 2012-13, grain and oilseed production in Canada was pegged by the government agency at 70.196 million tons.

The eight major grains and oilseeds include canola, flaxseed, soybeans, wheat, oats, barley, corn and rye.

Exports of the major grains and oilseeds in Canada during 2013-14 were projected at 39.490 million tons, unchanged from the March estimate and compared with the 2012-13 forecast of 35.289 million tons.

Total domestic usage of the various grains and oilseeds for the 2013-14 crop year was estimated at 38.103 million tons, down fractionally from the March projection of 38.113 million. In 2012-13, total domestic usage in Canada was estimated by Agriculture Canada at 37.242 million tons.

Ending stocks of the eight major grains and oilseeds in 2013-14 were pegged by the government agency at 10.401 million tons, up fractionally from the March projection of 10.400 million tons. For the current crop year, ending stocks were pegged at 9.095 million tons.



NIAA Opposes "Humane Education;” Supports Animal Welfare

Domesticated animals deserve respect and care. That’s animal welfare—and a priority of the National Institute for Animal Agriculture, an organization comprised of livestock, equine, poultry and aquaculture producers, producer organizations, veterinarians, extension personnel, academicians, scientists, Federal and state regulatory agencies and allied industry.

Jim Fraley, Livestock Program Director for Illinois Farm Bureau and co-chair of NIAA’s Animal Care Council, stresses that animal welfare and animal rights, however, are not the same. Significant discussion was devoted to this topic during NIAA’s annual conference in Louisville, Ky., April 15-17. In the end, NIAA’s membership agreed on two key items: 1) NIAA believes in animal welfare and does not believe in animal rights; and 2) Today’s children and future generations should understand the importance of animal welfare and not confuse animal welfare with animal rights.

“We believe in, and support, animal welfare as these practices focus on the prevention of suffering and cruelty to animals,” Fraley explains. “NIAA does not believe in animal rights as the animal rights philosophy advocates an end to all ‘human use of animals.’

“NIAA members believe human societies require and accept the use of animals as sources of food and fiber, as well as for scientific research, sport, companionship, entertainment and clothing. It is the obligation of animal caretakers to provide the best care possible of animals throughout their lifetime, and NIAA’s membership takes this obligation very seriously.”

During its annual conference, NIAA members adopted a position that public schools should not stir confusion regarding the difference between animal welfare and animal rights by allowing extremist animal rights groups to present their views which can be erroneously perceived as facts.

Concern about what public schools should or should not allow regarding animal welfare and animal rights education arose when NIAA members learned about a California school system that allowed a movie involving animals to be shown and followed up the movie with a discussion focusing on how cruel it is to eat fish.

“Those of us in animal agriculture do not believe that extremist animal rights groups should be allowed to dictate information children are exposed to—or will be exposed to—at our public schools regarding animal welfare,” Fraley states. “Animal rights groups led by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), PETA and the Institute of Humane Education (IHE) do not reflect balanced views and are campaigning across the United States to implement what they refer to as ‘humane education,’ a program of extreme ideological material they aspire to teach in our school systems.

“They have been successful in a few cities, but up to now have not been successful at the state or federal levels, despite repeated efforts to introduce legislation.”

Fraley emphasizes that emotional, subliminal vegan messages replacing animal care based on accepted, proven animal husbandry practices is “not education, but indoctrination.”



American Ethanol Races into Spotlight this Weekend in Kansas

American Ethanol will be showcased at the STP 400 at Kansas Speedway this Sunday, April 21, when fan-favorite Jeff Burton sports the black and green paint out on his No. 31 car.

"It is fitting to feature American Ethanol on Earth Day because ethanol is the only viable renewable fuel in the marketplace today, and NASCAR made the switch to Sunoco Green E15- a fuel containing 15 percent ethanol- three years ago because of its environmental benefits and superior performance," said Jon Holzfaster, a farmer from Paxton, Neb. who serves on the National Corn Growers Association Corn Board. "Part of American Ethanol's goal is to remind the public of the jobs created by domestic ethanol, the significant economic benefits and of its contributions to our energy security."

American Ethanol will also be an Associate Sponsor for Austin Dillon's No. 3 car in the Nationwide Series all season.

"We're excited that Jeff Burton is lending his star power to American Ethanol with the paint out this weekend - yet another way we have been actively expanding our brand's reach, and promoting the importance of renewable fuels like E15," said Growth Energy CEO Tom Buis. He continued, "Seeing the American Ethanol #31 car will be another reminder for fans that they, too, can fuel up with their favorite NASCAR driver's fuel of choice - homegrown American Ethanol."

The high-profile paint out on Burton's Richard Childress Racing entry in this weekend's NASCAR Spring Cup Series™ race will be the first full paint out of the season featuring the American Ethanol brand. Led by Growth Energy, in partnership with the National Corn Growers Association, and more than 100 different entities, from farmers and state corn organizations to ethanol producers and biotech companies, Growth Energy is working with NASCAR® to increase the profile of cleaner, better, homegrown E15,- the same fuel used in all three NASCAR series races.

Burton, a vocal advocate for ethanol, is currently ranked 23 in the Sprint Cup Series standings. This weekend's race, and the American Ethanol #31 car, will be featured on Fox Sports, MRN Radio and other media outlets.

Nebraska Agribusiness Club opens awards nomination to the agribusiness community

The Nebraska Agribusiness Club would like to announce that nomination forms for the Public Service to Agriculture and New Horizon awards are now available.  The Public Service to Agriculture award has been presented annually since 1967.  The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to Nebraska agriculture and Nebraska agribusiness.  The New Horizon Award is an award that recognizes individuals 40 years of age and younger who are upcoming leaders in the agricultural industry.

Nominations for both awards are due by July 15, 2013.  The nomination forms, guidelines and more information can be found at NebraskaAgribusinessClub.org or by e-mail at nebraskaagribusinessclub@gmail.com.  Nomination forms do not need to come only from club members.



Midwest Dairy Announces 2012-2013 Fuel Up to Play 60 Program Advisors of the Year

Twelve adult leaders from across the Midwest have been named Fuel Up to Play 60 Program Advisors of the Year.

Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school nutrition and physical activity program created in partnership with Midwest Dairy Council and the NFL, in collaboration with USDA, and provided by the Midwest Dairy Council in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma. The program encourages students to eat healthy, be active, and make positive, healthy changes in their schools and communities.

Leaders chosen as Program Advisors of the Year have taken an active role in their respective schools, encouraging and empowering students to get involved in Fuel Up to Play 60. They have also helped their schools and students earn recognition, rewards and funding to support wellness initiatives. This year’s honorees in the Midwest include:
-    Alan Sarka, Neihardt Elementary - Millard, Neb.
-    Penny Arey, Indianola Middle School - Indianola, Iowa
-    Jeffery Arellano, Gardiner Elementary - Wichita, Kan.
-    Michele Brown, Lamar Elementary - Lamar, Ark.
-    Wendy Starwalt, Carrie Busey Elementary - Savoy, Ill.
-    Greg Ulrich and Matt Moore, Sunnyside Elementary - New Brighton, Minn.
-    Julie Dwyer, Pond Elementary - Grover, Mo.
-    Leah Swedberg and Chelsea Hendricks, West Fargo High School - West Fargo, N.D.
-    Benito Rodriguez and Jason Bruce, Woonsocket School - Woonsocket, S.D.

“These leaders have gone above and beyond to connect with their students and get them excited about the Fuel Up to Play 60 program,” said Molly Pelzer, RD, LD, senior vice president of Midwest Dairy Council. “Across the Midwest, they are creating healthier schools and healthier futures for our youth. They have each set a tremendous example for current and future program advisors to follow.”

Any adult enrolled in Fuel Up to Play 60 can become a program advisor. To learn more about Fuel Up to Play 60 program advisors visit http://school.fueluptoplay60.com/welcome/program-advisor.php.



UNL Graduate Student Conducts Biomass Research

            Eastern red cedar trees are becoming a nuisance tree, growing where they are not wanted. But instead of removing and wasting the trees, a University of Nebraska-Lincoln graduate student is trying to simplify a way to use the material for good.

            Adam Smith, a first-year natural resource sciences graduate student, is conducting research that could help people throughout Nebraska use eastern red cedar trees in a non-wasteful and even helpful way.

            Smith, who graduated from UNL in 2009 with a bachelor's degree in fisheries and wildlife, is attempting to estimate the volume of woody material a property has available for biomass utilization purposes, often in the form of woodchips and used as a heating fuel, based on the height and diameter of the trees on the property. When Smith began his job at the Nebraska Forest Service as the forestry project coordinator, he saw an opportunity to assist landowners in using unwanted red cedars as an economic resource.

            "The alternative to woody biomass utilization is to pile the trees and destroy them, when they could be a source of income," Smith said.

            After selecting forest inventory points throughout the state, Smith collected data on the location, species, diameter and height of trees at these points. Research by Tala Awada, professor and interim director of the School of Natural Resources, is used to estimate the mass of red cedar trees per cubic foot. The estimate of tree mass per cubic foot and Smith's volume estimate together will determine the total weight of each tree and therefore estimate total available woody material in the area.

            Smith gathered data from across the state and saw a noticeable difference between regions. Although more moisture in eastern Nebraska makes it easy for the trees to establish rapidly in the region, red cedars also can grow in harsh conditions. In western Nebraska, this allows the trees to outgrow other vegetation struggling with hot, dry conditions. Since there is more available land in the west, the trees have more space to grow as well.

            "If the trees have the opportunity to get a foothold, they will," Smith said. "And the current drought conditions offer the perfect opportunity for these trees to continue expanding."

            Smith's research will give professionals the opportunity to calculate how much woody material is available to be used as biomass fuel and offer landowners help in finding a market for it. According to Smith, the landowner can benefit not only from the profit from selling the wood, but also can reclaim the land where the red cedars had been growing.

            "An outdoorsman will appreciate the ability to walk through the grasslands of Nebraska again," he said.



Livestock Disaster Protection Act Introduced in the House of Representatives

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) supports the efforts of Rep. Kristi Noem (R-S.D.) in introducing legislation that would provide a safety net for livestock owners across the nation. Under the Livestock Disaster Protection Act - the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP), the Livestock Forage Program (LFP) and the Emergency Livestock Assistance Program (ELAP) would be extended for five years and would apply retroactively to cover losses in fiscal years 2012 and 2013.

“While cattlemen and women need the certainty that would be provided through a permanent disaster program in a full five year farm bill and we continue to work toward that goal, we appreciate the efforts of all members of Congress in keeping disaster assistance part of the national dialogue,” said Scott George, NCBA President and a dairy and beef producer from Cody, Wyo. “The continued drought which has now covered more than 70 percent of cattle country has impacted all of our ranches. Cattle producers need the tools necessary to manage the risks associated with mother-nature.”

The nation’s livestock producers have been hard hit, with the current drought across the country only adding to the effects caused by multi-year droughts in some of the largest cattle production areas. The drought has been a major factor in lower yields and subsequent high costs for hay and feed grains, forcing many ranchers to sell their cattle.

“The risk our farmers, ranchers and all livestock owners take is undeniable,” said Rep. Noem. “The extreme weather we see across America - from drought to flood to freezes to the extreme heat - demonstrates the importance of providing a strong safety net. My bill gives some long-term certainty to our livestock owners so they'll keep on taking the risk to contribute to our state and nation's robust agriculture industry.”

Rep. Noem had previously introduced this legislation on Apr. 26, 2012. The House of Representatives voted to approve livestock disaster assistance on Aug. 2, 2012 by a vote of 223-197.



National Ocean Policy Implementation Plan a Needed Commitment to Building the U.S. Aquaculture Industry

The American Soybean Association (ASA) and the Soy Aquaculture Alliance (SAA) joined in welcoming today’s announcement of the White House’s National Ocean Policy Implementation Plan.  The soybean industry is the largest provider of protein for the aquaculture industry, and has been advocating the development of a domestic marine aquaculture industry for several years.  “Through this plan, there is a commitment to education, regulatory streamlining, and better monitoring and data,” said ASA President Danny Murphy, a soybean farmer from Canton, Miss. “It reflects a serious and thoughtful plan not only to tackle big problems, but also to take advantage of opportunities to work collaboratively with industry to build a domestic aquaculture industry.”

ASA and SAA pointed to the plan’s acknowledgment that federal inefficiencies in the permitting and approvals process for domestic aquaculture operations has been a significant hindrance in the industry’s growth.

“The Plan notes that more than 90 percent of the seafood consumed in the U.S. is imported, and we face a trade shortfall within the seafood industry of more than $11 billion, a number that grows annually,” added Steve Hart, SAA Executive Director. “The steps in the plan will go a long way toward establishing and nurturing a robust domestic aquaculture industry to help the American seafood industry take advantage of an area for huge potential growth.” While global production of fish from aquaculture grew more than 60 percent between 2000 and 2008, production in the United States remains stagnant.

Hart has been invited to discuss the intricacies of the industry in an address to the National Science and Technology Council’s Interagency Working Group on Aquaculture, a key partner in the plan’s component to address and involve industry.

The National Ocean Policy created a National Ocean Council through which agencies can work together cooperatively to share information and streamline decision-making. The Council developed the Implementation Plan over the past two years with extensive input from public and private sector stakeholders at all levels, including ASA and SAA, to focus on improving coordination to speed federal permitting decisions; better manage resources; develop and disseminate sound scientific information; and collaborate more effectively with public and private-sector stakeholders.

“A very positive aspect of the plan,” added Murphy, “is that it ensures federal agencies collaborate efficiently in the interest of protecting the environment while at the same time reducing redundancies and red tape, all without creating additional regulations.”



EPA Releases March Biodiesel Figures

The EPA said Wednesday that 109 million gallons of biodiesel were produced in March.  Biodiesel, an EPA-designated Advanced Biofuel that has exceeded targets under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) for two consecutive years, is reported under the Biomass-based Diesel category under the RFS.  The numbers show a total of more than 127 million gallons of Biomass-based Diesel for March, but that total also includes production of renewable diesel. With the March numbers, year-to-date biodiesel production stands at just under 259 million gallons.

Made from an increasingly diverse mix of resources such as recycled cooking oil, soybean oil and animal fats, biodiesel is the first and only EPA-designated Advanced Biofuel that's produced on a commercial scale across the U.S. It is produced in nearly every state in the country and is used in existing diesel engines without modification. In 2012 the biodiesel industry produced more than 1 billion gallons, supporting more than 60,000 jobs across the country.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 4/12/2013

According to EIA data, ethanol production averaged 832,000 barrels per day (b/d) — or 34.94 million gallons daily. That is down 22,000 b/d from the week before. The four-week average for ethanol production stood at 824,000 b/d for an annualized rate of 12.63 billion gallons.

Stocks of ethanol stood at 17.5 million barrels. That is a 1.6% decrease from last week.

Imports of ethanol showed zero b/d, unchanged from last week.

Gasoline demand for the week averaged 352.1 million gallons daily.

Expressed as a percentage of daily gasoline demand, daily ethanol production was 9.92%.

On the co-products side, ethanol producers were using 12.615 million bushels of corn to produce ethanol and 92,854 metric tons of livestock feed, 82,780 metric tons of which were distillers grains. The rest is comprised of corn gluten feed and corn gluten meal. Additionally, ethanol producers were providing 4.33 million pounds of corn oil daily.



Cost-Saving Measure to Upgrade Ethanol to Butanol

Scientists today reported a discovery that could speed an emerging effort to replace ethanol in gasoline with a substantially better fuel additive called butanol, which some experts regard as "the gasoline of the future." Their report on this discovery, which holds potential to reduce the costs of converting ethanol factories to production of butanol, came at the 245th National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society, the world's largest scientific society.

Duncan Wass explained that ethanol has become a leading biofuel -- millions of gallons added to gasoline around the country each year -- despite several disadvantages. Ethanol, for instance, has a lower energy content per gallon than gasoline, which can reduce fuel mileage. Ethanol also has a corrosive effect on car engines and can't easily be used in amounts higher than 10-15 percent.

"Ethanol actually is a poor alternative fuel," Wass said. "Butanol is much better. It contains about 30 percent more energy per gallon than ethanol, is easier to handle and more of it can be blended into each gallon of gasoline. In fact, you could fuel a car on pure butanol and it would run absolutely fine. That's the basis for butanol's emerging reputation as 'the gasoline of the future.'"

Efforts already have begun to convert some ethanol factories in the Corn Belt to production of butanol, Wass explained. Those factories currently process corn into alcohol with the same fermentation technology used to make beer and beverage alcohol. Converting those factories to ferment corn into butanol would require costly modifications, estimated at $10 million-$15 million for a typical plant.

Wass and his group at the University of Bristol in the U.K. are reporting the discovery of a new family of catalysts that could enable those factories to continue producing ethanol, with the ethanol then converted into butanol. With the catalysts, ethanol factories would require less retrofitting to produce butanol. Catalysts speed up chemical reactions by lowering the amount of energy needed need to jumpstart reactions. They enable production of hundreds of everyday products, and many of the proteins that sustain life are catalysts called enzymes.

Their report was part of a symposium on renewable fuels and catalysts.

"These new catalysts are much better than any previously in existence," Wass said. "There's a long way to go before they are commercialized, but we are reporting a fundamental advance in that direction. Quite simply, they are the world's best catalysts for making the gasoline of the future."

The new catalysts are more selective, solving a difficult problem in which current catalysts churn out butanol as well as unwanted products. Wass said the new catalysts yield 95 percent butanol out of the total products from each batch in laboratory-scale tests.

Wass' team acknowledges funding from BP.



Brazil's Crushers Clip 2012-13 Soy View to 82.1 MMT

Brazil's Soybean Crushers Association (ABIOVE) Wednesday trimmed its forecast for the 2012-13 soybean crop to 82.1 million metric tons (mmt) from 82.3 mmt last month.  The industry figure is very close to the 81.8 mmt forecast by the Brazilian Agriculture Ministry last week but well below the 83.5 mmt predicted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

With the Brazilian soybean harvest approaching 85% complete, it should now be clearer how big the harvest actually is and trading firms are in a good position to assess that. However, big variations in private forecasts remain, between 81 and 84 mmt.

Brazil will crush 38.3 mmt of soybeans in 2013-14, up 20% on last year.  Processing of soybeans slipped to 1.86 mmt in February, the lowest level since 2006, reflecting tight inter-harvest stocks and the late start to this year's harvest due to rain in the center-west.

Soy complex exports are expected to reach $28.3 million in 2013, up 8% on the year before as greater volumes make up for lower prices.



Survey Supports Need for Continued Food Conversation

According to a new survey, American moms may be building their grocery lists based on misinformation about how their food was grown and raised.

The Gate-to-Plate survey of more than 1,000 moms was commissioned by CommonGround, a grassroots coalition of farm women who want to foster conversations among all women - on farms and in cities - about where our food comes from and how it is raised. Survey results, which have been distributed nationally to a wide variety of media outlets, highlight the amount of confusion surrounding the labels attached to certain foods and what some production practices actually mean.

CommonGround is a grass-roots movement to foster conversation among women - on farms and in cities - about where our food comes from and how it is grown. The National Corn Growers Association, the United Soybean Board and their state affiliates developed CommonGround to give farm women the opportunity to engage with consumers through the use of a wide range of activities.

Through the study, CommonGround provides not only insight into what questions consumers have about food but also offers the women who make up CommonGround, volunteer family farmers, as a resource for those interested in finding answers and having an open, honest discussion.

"The CommonGround program grew out of a new demand from consumers for food information," said Kentucky CommonGround farmer-volunteer Ashley Reding, who raises soybeans, corn and winter wheat in Howardstown, Ky. "The goal of CommonGround is to be a resource to provide moms with facts and information that can help them make informed food choices. As a farmer and a mother, I want individuals to feel empowered to make food choices based on facts and not fear."

The study found many areas where confusion may be causing consumers to select specific products including:

ORGANIC FOODS
Eighty-four percent of moms surveyed believe that organic food is farmed without any pesticides, fertilizers or herbicides.

The facts -Organic is a labeling term that indicates that the food or other agricultural product has been produced through approved methods. Synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering may not be used and organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides. However, more than 50 synthetic substances may be used in organic crop production if other substances fail to prevent or control the target pest All foods - whether organic or nonorganic - must meet certain health and safety regulations before being sold to consumers.

GMO FOODS
While one-fourth of the moms who participated in the survey said they had never heard of genetically modified foods, the majority of moms question the safety of GMO foods. Nearly half - 43 percent - of moms in the survey believe that GMO food is nutritionally and chemically different than non-GMO food.

The facts - All GMO foods are still exhaustively assessed for safety by groups like the Food and Drug Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture. In the 12-plus years that modern biotech crops have been commercially grown, there has not been a single documented case of an ecosystem disrupted or a person made ill. GMO foods are nutritionally and chemically identical to food grown from non-biotech crops.

HORMONES IN MEAT
More than half of moms in the survey said they believe it is important to feed their families hormone-free poultry and pork - even though it may cost more to do so.

The facts - There's no need to pay extra for poultry or pork that's labeled hormone-free. USDA prohibits farmers from using hormones to raise chickens and pigs.

ALL-NATURAL FOODS
More than half - 53 percent - of moms surveyed said it's important to purchase food labeled "all natural," whenever possible, because it is a more nutritious choice for their family.

The facts - All-natural doesn't mean nutritional benefits. As required by USDA, meat, poultry and egg products labeled as "natural" must be minimally processed and contain no artificial ingredients. However, the natural label does not include any standards regarding farm practices and only applies to processing of meat and egg products.

LOCAL FOODS
More than half of moms surveyed said locally produced foods are always better for the environment.

The facts - Purchasing locally grown food is a great way to support farmers in your community but does not always benefit the environment. Sometimes it takes more energy to grow and harvest local food than it does to grow it elsewhere and have it shipped.

FAMILY FARMS
Seven out of 10 moms surveyed believe the family farm is dying in the United States.

The facts - Between 96 and 98 percent of the 2.2 million farms in the United States are family farms. Seven out of ten moms in the survey agree that farmers should be a key resource for individuals seeking information related to food and farming, yet only one out of five moms surveyed seeks information from farmers.

Have a question about your food? Find CommonGround online:  www.FindOurCommonGround.com. 



NMPF Praises Senate Agreement on Agriculture Worker Component of Immigration Reform

As a bipartisan group of Senators introduced legislation this morning dealing with comprehensive immigration reform, members of the Agriculture Workforce Coalition (AWC) held a press conference Wednesday highlighting the crucial stake American agriculture, including dairy farming, has in the debate.

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF), which is a founding member of the AWC, has made fixing the broken immigration system one of its highest priorities over the past decade. NMPF’s President & CEO Jerry Kozak told press conference attendees that “what we’re working with lawmakers to do is not merely fixing a broken system, but scrapping an old set of unworkable rules and replacing it with something better.”

“The approach in this agreement is better for employers, better for employees, better for law enforcement, better for the economy – better for America,” Kozak added.

Kozak identified four key items essential to dairy farmers that any eventual deal on immigration reform must contain. These include:
1.      Establishing a blue card for experienced agricultural workers. This provides a means for farmers to keep their existing workforce, including those who may not be legally documented. Dairy farmers should not lose experienced, loyal employees as part of this effort.
2.      Creating a new visa system for future workers that is easy to use and affordable. Current efforts won’t be worth it if the resulting product is too cumbersome, costly, and confusing for farmers to use.
3.      Assuring the future flow of new workers so that as the economy and jobs shift and evolve. Dairy farmers must have a means to recruit and hire new dairy workers for a long period of time.
4.      Eliminating the seasonality element of any ag visa program such as H2A, which prevented U.S. dairy farmers from using it. Dairy farmers need relief from having to demonstrate the seasonal or temporary nature of employment.

Kozak stressed that although much of the work on comprehensive immigration reform has been done, there is still more to do. Negotiations will continue as members of the Senate debate the legislation, and the discussion also begins in the House of Representatives.

To learn more about the AWC, visit www.agworkforcecoalition.com.



Beef Checkoff Returns to National Harbor Waterfront Annual Wine & Food Festival

The beef checkoff, via the Northeast Beef Promotion Initiative (NEBPI), returns to the shores of the Potomac River on May 4-5 for the 2013 National Harbor Wine and Food Festival.

Checkoff Executive Chef Dave Zino will be on the Viking Cooking Stage in the main festival tent at 2 p.m. Saturday to demonstrate how to bridge the gap between healthy recipes and flavorful dishes, without using the crutches of fat and sodium.

Back in the beef checkoff tent throughout the weekend, the NEBPI plans to distribute information about the nutritional value and versatility of lean beef, including recipes for healthier cooking; and Roseda Beef, a sustainable farm located just outside of Baltimore, Md., will be sampling tasting portions of their Black Angus beef.

Festival-goers will be challenged to test their Beef IQ at the tent through various games, including Pin the Cut on the Cow, to win coveted “I Love Beef” swag.

In addition, beef street teams, including several members of the National Beef Ambassador Program, will be on-site to accompany the program’s lively mascot, Miss Patty Melt, as she interacts with the crowd along the piers on the Potomac waterfront.

As in years past, the beef checkoff tent will be located on the raised platform just above “The Awakening” sculpture between the piers at National Harbor. Simply follow your nose to find the beef!

More information about the National Harbor Wine & Food Festival, including show info and tickets, can be found online at wineandfoodnh.com.

39th Annual Cuming County 4-H Beef Preview Results

The 39th Annual Cuming County 4-H Beef Preview Show was held on Saturday, April 13, at the Cuming County Fairgrounds in West Point. According to UNL Extension Educator in Cuming County, Larry Howard, the show is sponsored by the Cuming County Feeders Association and UNL Extension in Cuming County. The judge for the show was Jackie McKenney of Lincoln, Nebraska.

The Champion Market Steer was shown by Sydney Williams of Wisner, while Kali Stratman of West Point showed the Reserve Champion Steer. The Champion Market Heifer was exhibited by Amanda Stratman of West Point, and Austin Kempf of Carroll showed the Reserve Champion. The Supreme Breeding Heifer was shown by Sutton Bellar of Wisner; Katlyn Ahrens of West Point exhibited the Reserve Champion Supreme Breeding Heifer.

In the showmanship divisions the winners were: Junior Division – Megan Schroeder, Wisner, Champion; Cody Elliott, Tekamah, Reserve; Intermediate Division – Kali Stratman, West Point Champion; Sutton Bellar, Wisner, Reserve; and Senior Division – Katlyn Ahrens, West Point Champion; and Sydney Williams, Wisner, Reserve.

Complete Show results are:

Breeding Heifers:
Chianana – Katlyn Ahrens, West Point, Purple; Emily Ludwig, Wisner, Blue
Maine Anjou – Katlyn Ahrens, West Point, Purple; Blues - Garrett Ruskamp, Dodge; Bailey Fleischman, Tekamah; Martin Perez, Fremont
Red Angus – Emily Ludwig, Wisner, Purple
Simmental – Dylan Russman, Pender, Purple; Blue - Fernando Andrade-Cardia, Fremont
Commercial – Sutton Bellar, Wisner, 1st Purple; Garrett Ruskamp, Dodge, 2nd Purple; Blues – Dylan Russman, Pender; Megan Schroeder, Wisner; Kylie Kempf, Carroll; Reds – Keeley Russman, Wisner; Rachel Groth, Beemer
Champion Supreme Breeding Heifer – Sutton Bellar, Wisner
Reserve Champion Supreme Breeding Heifer – Katlyn Ahrens, West Point

Junior Showmanship – Megan Schroeder, Wisner, Champion; Cody Elliott, Tekamah, Reserve Champion; Purples – Cassidee Stratman, West Point; Dylan Russman, Pender; Blues - Evie Schlickbernd, West Point; Rachel Groth, Beemer; Kylie Kempf, Carroll

Intermediate Showmanship – Kali Stratman, West Point, Champion; Sutton Bellar, Wisner, Reserve Champion; Purples – Chase Albers, Wisner; Austin Kempf, Carroll; Blues – Megan Groth, Beemer; Martin Perez, Fremont; Dawson French, Wayne

Senior Showmanship – Katlyn Ahrens, West Point, Champion; Sydney Williams, Wisner, Reserve Champion; Purples – Keeley Russman, Wisner; Garrett Ruskamp, Dodge; Callie Albers, Wisner; Fernando Andrade-Cardia, Fremont; Blues – Jarett Chappalear, Fremont; Gabe Bernhagen, Fremont; Devon Rice, Fremont; Emily Ludwig, Wisner; Bailey Fleischman, Tekamah; Ryan Schroeder, Wisner; Nathan Groth, Beemer

Market Heifers –
Class 1 – Amanda Stratman, West Point, 1st Purple; Blues – Keeley Russman, Wisner; Cassidee Stratman, West Point
Class 2 – Austin Kempf, Carroll, 1st Purple; Evie Schlickbernd, West Point, 2nd Purple; Blue - Nathan Groth, Beemer
Grand Champion Market Heifer – Amanda Stratman, West Point
Reserve Grand Champion Market Heifer – Austin Kempf, Carroll

Market Steers:
Division I
Class 1 - Cassidee Stratman, West Point, 1st Purple; Evie Schlickbernd, West Point, 2nd Purple; Blues – Cassidee Stratman, West Point; Jarrett Chappalear, Fremont
Class 2 - Kali Stratman, West Point, 1st Purple; Chase Albers, Wisner, 2nd Purple; Purple – Dawson French, Wayne; Blues – Gabe Bernhagen, Fremont; Devon Rice, Fremont
Class 3 - Sydney Williams, Wisner, 1st Purple; Blues – Ryan Schroeder, Wisner; Megan Groth, Beemer
Market Steer Division I Champion – Sydney Williams, Wisner
Market Steer Division I Reserve Champion – Kali Stratman, West Point

Division II
Class 1 - Callie Albers, Wisner, 1st Purple; Heath Schroder, West Point, 2nd Purple; Purple – Cody Elliott, Tekamah
Class 2 - Ryan Schroeder, Wisner, 1st Purple; Hunter Schroeder, West Point, 2nd Purple; Blue – Cody Elliott, Tekamah
Market Steer Division II Champion – Callie Albers, Wisner
Market Steer Division II Reserve Champion – Heath Schroeder, West Point

Grand Champion Market Steer – Sydney Williams, Wisner
Reserve Grand Champion Market Steer – Kali Stratman, West Point



NDA DIRECTOR IBACH PROMOTES RETURN OF CARGILL’S SPENCER BEEF BRAND TO JAPAN

Agriculture Director Greg Ibach is in Japan this week working with a Nebraska beef processor to reintroduce a premium beef brand popular there a decade ago.

Representatives of Cargill Meat Solutions in Schuyler asked the Nebraska Department of Agriculture to help promote the availability of its Spencer Beef brand at events in Tokyo and Osaka.  Spencer Beef was popular in Japan before U.S. beef exports were halted in December 2003 due to the finding of a case of bovine spongiform encephalopathy in the United States.

Cargill is reintroducing Spencer Beef to the marketplace following Japan’s announcement in January that it would allow into the country imports of U.S. beef products from cattle under 30 months of age.

Ibach said Spencer Beef only will be produced at Cargill’s Schuyler processing plant, and it will be branded as a Nebraska product in the Japanese marketplace.

“We are excited to partner with Cargill as they reintroduce this brand,” Ibach said.  “They recognize that foreign markets place a high value on products that carry the Nebraska name. The events this week are part of NDA’s ongoing effort to brand Nebraska as a premier supplier of high quality agricultural goods to the international marketplace.”

Individuals invited to the seminars and receptions in Tokyo and Osaka include sales staff and key customers.

“Cargill is delighted to reintroduce Spencer Beef to the Japanese market, and we look forward to filling the needs of retail and foodservice customers, as well as consumers who have shown a preference for beef from the United States,” said Eddie Troutman, Cargill vice president for international beef sales.  “We know Japanese consumers enjoy and trust American beef, and our goal is to provide a high quality, nutritious, flavorful and abundant supply exclusively from our Nebraska processing facility.”

Sales of fresh and frozen Nebraska beef to Japan annually averaged $340 million in the five years prior to the stop in exports in 2003.  The Japanese market reopened to beef from cattle 20 months of age or younger in late 2005, and sales have steadily gained since that time. In 2012 Nebraska sold almost $113 million in fresh and frozen beef to Japan.

The Nebraska Beef Council has provided partial funding support for the events in Tokyo and Osaka.



USDA Proposes Simplified Application Process for Renewable Energy Funding;  Changes Would Help Nebraska Applicants

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has proposed a series of changes to make it easier for agricultural producers and rural small businesses to apply for renewable energy and energy efficiency funding.  USDA remains focused on carrying out its mission, despite a time of significant budget uncertainty.  This announcement is one part of the Department’s efforts to strengthen the rural economy.

   REAP is one of USDA’s most popular renewable energy and energy efficiency programs. From the passage of the 2008 Farm Bill through the end of Fiscal Year 2012, REAP funded more than 6,800 renewable energy and energy efficiency projects, feasibility studies, energy audits and renewable energy development assistance projects.

  In 2012, for example, USDA Rural Development provided Benes Service Inc. of Valparaiso, NE, a $19,750 REAP grant to assist with installing a 25KW wind turbine to offset energy costs of the farm implement dealership. The grant was leveraged with $62,250 of funding from the applicant.  As a direct result of the USDA grant and turbine installation, the company has helped secure its fuel costs for the life of the system which will help it remain a viable employer of 20 people in small town rural Nebraska.

   “These changes are intended to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses throughout America,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said.  “They will streamline and simplify the application process and give businesses more time to do what they do best:  innovate, create jobs and serve their rural communities.”

   The proposed changes would affect applications for loans and grants through USDA Rural Development’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).  They would:
·       Reduce paperwork, especially for projects under $80,000;
·       Implement a more objective and uniform system to score applications;
·       Authorize funding for refurbished and retrofitted renewable energy systems;
·       Reduce certain reporting requirements;
·       Establish a quarterly application period for applicants seeking only guaranteed loans.  This change is intended to make the program more appealing to lenders and to ensure that funds are available year-round.

  USDA is accepting comments on the proposed rule through June 11, 2013. For details on how to submit comments, or for additional information, see Page 22044 of the April 12 Federal Register, http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2013-04-12/pdf/2013-07273.pdf.



Act Now to Decrease Impact of Vitamin A Deficiency in Cattle

Effects of last year’s drought are evident at the Iowa State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in the form of an increasing number of calves with vitamin A deficiency, said Grant Dewell, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach beef veterinarian.

The 2012 drought and subsequent low quality hay supplies for winter feeding mean cows don’t have normal liver stores of vitamin A, and without supplementation cows will potentially be deficient in vitamin A. That can lead to a variety of calf health problems, Dewell said.

“Typically calves have been submitted with a history of being either still born or weak at birth. Some veterinarians have reported blindness, neurologic signs or diarrhea that can also be associated with vitamin A deficiency,” he said. “Severe vitamin A deficiency can result in abnormal bone development in fetal calves. Other calves may be born weak and fail to thrive. Additionally, poor immune function can lead to increased infectious disease incidence.”

Dewell recommended that cows receive supplemental Vitamin A either through oral supplementation or injection of vitamin A. Calves may benefit from an injection of vitamin A at birth and potentially a second dose in two to three weeks, especially if cows have not been supplemented.

For more information, see Dewell’s fact sheet on vitamin A deficiency posted on the Iowa Beef Center website, www.iowabeefcenter.org.



IFBF Brings in National Speakers for Economic Summit

Compared to a year ago, Iowa farmers are facing entirely new challenges from nature as well as global markets, farm policy and soaring land prices. Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), the state's largest grassroots farm organization, is once again bringing economic, marketing and nationally-respected financial experts to Iowa to help Iowa's crop and livestock farmers weather these new cycles of change. The second annual IFBF Economic Summit will take place July 22-23 at the Iowa State Center Scheman Building on the Iowa State University campus in Ames, Iowa.

"The timing of this Economic Summit is at such a critical juncture; with regards to policy, weather and many other factors which impact farming sustainability and profitability," said Craig Hill, IFBF president. "While it's true that Iowa's thriving farm sector served to insulate much of our state from the worst of the recession, we have to be realistic. Fifteen percent of farmers are more leveraged today than they were before the Farm Crisis of the 1980s. There are many things in flux: record land prices and cash rent prices for farmland, an uncertain political climate, no new Farm Bill, global market competition and trade challenges. Corn exports are down 50 percent from just three years ago and there are many other signs which point towards an inevitable 'bubble' burst."

"Brazil will pass the U.S. in soybean production for the first time in 2013 and they're emerging as a strong beef exporter. Ukraine just signed a MOU with China to become a soybean supplier, so you can quickly see that our 'first-in--the-nation-leading-food-exporter' status is facing new competition thanks to a drought cycle and uncertain political climate," said Dave Miller, IFBF director of research and commodity services.

"Today, our market strength depends largely on global markets, trade and things we can't predict, such as political uncertainty and climate change," Miller added.

National experts ranging from Daniel Mitchell with the D.C. think tank The CATO Institute, economist Mike Boehlje with Purdue University, American Farm Bureau economist Bob Young and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack are among many nationally-recognized monetary, policy, trade and economic experts tapped for the July IFBF Economic Summit.

For a complete listing of the panelists and schedule, click here: www.iowafarmbureau.com.

The price of the two-day summit is $50 for Iowa Farm Bureau members and $150 for non-members. Information about the summit, lodging, online registration forms or to join IFBF can be found at www.iowafarmbureau.com.



Former USDA Official to Speak At South Dakota Farm Bill Conservation Forum on April 29

Sioux Falls – South Dakota’s conservation and agricultural leaders will join together here on April 29 to discuss the need to tie federal farm payments to conservation practices that protect the state’s water, soils and wildlife habitat.

Keynote speaker for the free public forum will be former U.S. Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Bruce Knight, a South Dakota native and third-generation farmer-rancher. He will present the case for conservation compliance in federal crop insurance programs.

Knight served as undersecretary of marketing and regulatory programs for the USDA from 2006-2009. He is a nationally recognized leader in conservation, agriculture and the environment and founder and principal of Strategic Conservation Solutions, a specialized consulting firm. 

Sponsored by the Izaak Walton League of America, the April 29 forum will begin with a 5:30 p.m. reception and the keynote address will begin at 7 p.m. The event will be at the Sioux Falls Chapter of the Izaak Walton League, located at 5000 North Oakview Place, Sioux Falls.

Following Knight’s keynote address, there will be a panel discussion with Knight, Dr. Carol Johnston from South Dakota State University, Julie Sibbing from the National Wildlife Federation, and Mike Traxinger from South Dakota Farmers Union.

Other participating organizations include the South Dakota Association of Conservation Districts, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, and Ducks Unlimited.

“With action on the federal farm bill in Washington DC moving forward, it is time to engage South Dakota farmers, conservationists and regulators in a discussion of conservation compliance and how to enact effective conservation policy,” said Bill Wenzel, agriculture program director for the Izaak Walton League of America.
Conservation compliance for federal crop insurance is one way the IWLA is exploring to increase conservation and save federal tax dollars that will protect wetlands, wildlife habitat and sensitive soils.

“Under the compliance provision in federal farm law, farmers who accept taxpayers' money would agree to provide basic stewardship of soil, water and wetlands,” Wenzel said. “This requires no additional federal dollars; in fact, it can result in budgetary savings, cleaner water and improved wildlife habit.”

“Without the link to conservation compliance, wetlands will be lost at an unacceptable rate. However, we have the ability to slow these losses by restoring the link between federal crop insurance subsidy benefits and conservation compliance, as well as establishing provisions to protect native grasslands. Conservation compliance has been shown to have saved an estimated 295 tons of soil per hear, and protects an estimated 1.5 to 3.3 million acres of vulnerable wetlands from being drained. Re-establishing the link between conservation compliance and crop insurance premium subsidies would save approximately $55 million in federal spending over a ten year period. In this era of shrinking budgets, this is a common sense approach to conservation,” Wenzel said.

For more information about the Izaak Walton League’s position on conservation review the IWLA’s online Farm Bill Report at www.iwla.org/farmbill.

The April 29 South Dakota Farm Bill Forum is free and open to the public.  To attend, please RSVP by April 26 by contacting Gwen Steel at gsteel@iwla.org or (651) 649-1446.



IRM Calculator App Takes Valuable Tool into the Fields

The National Corn Growers Association understands that many farmers must change planting plans to accommodate for the changing circumstances around them. To make updating refuge planting plans easier, NCGA now offers the Insect Resistance Management calculator in a handy mobile application.

NCGA Trade Policy and Biotechnology Action Team Chair Jim Zimmermann, a farmer from Rosendale, Wisc., is a strong advocate of the responsible use of biotechnology.  He says, "The IRM Refuge calculator is a tool that allows growers to develop a resistance management plan for corn rootworm and corn borer traited products they use on their farm," he explained. "By selecting the traits they plan to use, farmers can determine the refuge amount that is required with the proper consideration and distance."

As a farmer, Zimmerman is familiar with the wide variety of refuge requirements and how broadly they can vary from product to product. Yet, while acting as a good steward of biotechnology does take effort, he notes that it benefits every farmer to do so.

"There are a lot of different product offerings with different refuge requirements," said Zimmerman. "It is important because proper refuge compliance is what we can do to prevent resistance and maintain trait durability. It is about good stewardship, just like it is with any other resource we manage."

Zimmerman uses the IRM calculator on his own farm, and he explains that the IRM calculator app for smartphones and tablets provides a practical way to change plans without leaving the field.

"What I like about the IRM calculator smartphone app is that it makes it easy," he explained. "Farmers know that plans change for a number of reasons, mostly due to weather. The smartphone app allows you to account for these changes and adjust on the go."

The IRM calculator app is available for the iPhone through iTunes. The Android app is available through Google Play. To access or download the NCGA calculator, please visit www.irmcalculator.com.

While proper refuge planning can be confusing given the host of differing requirements associated with each variety, farmers have many allies who can act as resources. Generally the first and most important resource, seed dealers and crop consultants will help explain requirements and aide in planning.

Farmers interested in reading information supplied directly by seed companies should access the Insect Resistance Management and Technology User Guide supplied by each company.

In addition to proper refuge planning, NCGA also recommends that growers pay attention to any signs of insect pressure in their fields and acquaint themselves with more advanced integrated pest management solutions. By keeping up-to-date on all options, farmers increase the tools readily available in their arsenal should the need arise.



Fertilizer Prices About Steady... Again!

Fertilizer prices continue about steady for the second week of April 2013, according to retailers tracked by DTN. There has been little movement in retail fertilizer prices for more than five months.

Five of the eight major fertilizers were lower compared to last month but these moves to the low side were fairly small. MAP had average price of $660/ton, potash $588/ton, urea $573/ton, 10-34-0 $611/ton and anhydrous $855/ton.  The remaining three fertilizers were higher compared to the first week of March but again the move higher was negligible. DAP had an average price of $616/ton, UAN28 $402/ton and UAN32 $447/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.62/lb.N, anhydrous $0.52/lb.N, UAN28 $0.72/lb.N and UAN32 $0.70/lb.N.

Only one of the eight major fertilizers is showing a price increase compared to one year earlier. Anhydrous is now 12% higher compared to last year.  Four fertilizers are single digits lower in price compared to April 2012. Both DAP and UAN28 are down 3%, UAN32 is 4% less