Tuesday December 6 Ag News

Kerrey to Speak Dec. 12 on Missouri River as Part of IANR's Heuermann Lecture Series

"Conflict and Resolution on the Missouri River" is the topic when Bob Kerrey, former Nebraska governor and U.S. senator, presents the third Heuermann Lecture at 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12, in Hardin Hall at 33rd and Holdrege.

The new, public Heuermann Lectures in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln focus on meeting the world's growing food and renewable energy needs while sustaining natural resources and rural communities.

Lectures run monthly throughout the school year and are made possible by a gift from B. Keith and Norma Heuermann of Phillips, long-time university supporters with a strong commitment to Nebraska's production agriculture, natural resources, rural areas and people.

Kerrey noted conflicts produced by the 2011 Missouri River flooding are just the latest in a long series, and he said his lecture will focus on three critical moments in which the resolution of Missouri River conflicts produced federal and/or state laws that continue to affect lives today.

Kerrey served as Nebraska's governor from 1983-1987, and as a Nebraska U.S. senator from Jan. 3, 1989 to Jan. 3, 2001. He was president of The New School in New York from 2001-2010, and now is company chairman of M&F Worldwide Education Holdings.

A 3:30 p.m. reception in the Hardin Hall lobby precedes the lecture.



Nebraska Ag Tradition in Jeopardy
Senator Mike Johanns

In Nebraska, we’re known for having a strong work ethic and an eagerness to learn. For generations, farms and ranches have been a place where many of our young people have discovered these valuable life lessons. Memories of feeding cattle at sunrise, showing livestock at the county fair, and lending a hand during fall harvest have instilled lifelong values in young adults. So it’s no surprise that a proposed rule from the Department of Labor, which would ban teenagers under the age of 16 from working on a farm or ranch not owned by their parents, is striking a chord across the state. Hundreds of you have shared your concerns with me in recent weeks and I agree that this rule would go too far.

Richard and Lori Christy run a small detasseling business in Hastings. During the summer, they employ roughly 250 students from around the area. The Christys worry this rule may not only cripple their detasseling business, it could also keep their own children from earning money they often use to save for college.

“Not only has receiving a paycheck given our kids spending money, but it has also taught them to save, to prepare for the future,” Lori wrote me. “They now have an understanding of working hard and appreciating what their money buys.”

The learning opportunities provided to these young people are invaluable, as even teenagers themselves have asserted. In a recent Lincoln Journal Star article, 13-year-old Danae Welling of Ashland proclaimed, “When I saw that the Department of Labor was preventing me from having my summer job, I wanted to scream, cry and punch something, all at the same time…that may seem overly dramatic to you, but detasseling was the best job I ever had.”

We all want our children safe, and no one questions the importance of workplace safety. That’s obvious. But a proposed rule that fails to take into account all of the positive experiences teenagers can learn in an agriculture setting is deeply concerning. This broad-brush approach could even capture 4-H and livestock activities.

Last week, I wrote to the Obama Administration’s Labor Secretary asking for an overhaul of the proposed rule, taking into consideration all of the unintended consequences it could have on rural America and young people in agriculture. The public comment period to weigh in on the proposed rule ended December 1st, and I hope the Labor Department will take into account what Nebraskans and all those who shared their concerns had to say and redraft the rule.

The proposal raises serious questions about the Administration’s knowledge of rural America. I grew up on a farm, and I understand firsthand the potential downside of this regulatory overreach. I will continue encourage the Department of Labor to find a better solution that doesn’t disrupt the valuable experience our young people gain from the time honored tradition of working on the farm.



NDA ANNOUNCES NEW NAYC MEMBERS

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) is pleased to announce the selection of the members of the 2011-2012 Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council (NAYC).

In its 41st year, this year’s NAYC is comprised of 18 college-aged men and women with a passion for agriculture.  The Council is responsible for coordinating several agricultural learning experiences for Nebraska youth, including visiting elementary school classrooms to talk about where food comes from, taking urban youth to farms to experience hands-on activities and a day in the life of a farmer and visiting with high school students from across the state.  The primary focus of the NAYC is to coordinate the annual Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute (NAYI), a five-day conference for high school juniors and seniors interested in the agricultural industry.

“NAYC members are chosen based on their passion for the agricultural industry in Nebraska,” said NDA Public Information Officer and NAYC Advisor Christin Kamm.  “It is always a joy to see young adults with this much excitement for the agricultural industry, and I look forward to the new ideas this year’s NAYC will implement to share that excitement with other youth throughout the state.”

2011-2012 NAYC Members include:
·         Ethan Smith is serving as Head Counselor and NDA’s Ag Youth Coordinator where he will assist in the day-to-day coordinating of all NAYC activities, as well as NAYI 2011.  Ethan is the son of Alan and Christel Smith of Eustis.
·         Melissa Keyes is serving as Head Counselor and NDA’s Administrative Intern where she will assist in the day-to-day coordinating of all NAYC activities, as well as NAYI 2012. Melissa is the daughter of Kevin and Teresa Keyes of Springfield
·         Kristin Witte is the daughter of Donald and Kelly Witte of Scribner.  She is serving as NAYC President.
·         Evan Ibach is the son of Greg and Teresa Ibach of Sumner.  He is serving as NAYC Secretary and as the Chair of the Media Outreach Committee.
·         Gavin Kenney is the son of Paul and Angie Kenney of Amherst.  He is serving as the Chair of the Sponsorship and Alumni Relations Committee.
·         Jana Cool is the daughter of Jerry and Judy Cool of Arnold.  She is serving as the Chair of the NAYI Improvement Committee.
·         Matraca Meyer is the daughter of Chris and Teresa Meyer of Edgar.  She is serving as the Chair of the Promotion Committee.
·         Emily Ibach is the daughter of Greg and Teresa Ibach of Sumner.  She is serving as the Chair of the Youth Outreach and Group Interaction Committee.
·         Wade Walters is the son of Mike and Camella Walters of Shickley.
·         Haley Harthoorn is the daughter of Barry and Sue Harthoorn of Ainsworth.
·         Hoyt Kraeger is the son of Bump and Leesa Kraeger of Weeping Water.
·         Michelle Dvoracek is the daughter of John and Robyn Dvoracek of Elba.
·         Will Miller is the son of John and Karen Miller of Culbertson.
·         Bryce Dibbern is the son of Billy and Karen of Amherst.
·         Lauren Ibach is the daughter of Todd and Barbara Ibach of Sumner.
·         Jud Hoffschneider is the son of Scott and Jennifer Hoffschneider of Arlington.
·         Lydia Smith is the daughter of Gary and Annette Smith of Grafton.
·         Alyssa Dye is the daughter of Bart and Kathy Dye of Alliance.



NEBRASKA STUDENTS TO TOUR TAIWAN

Next week, three Nebraska students will travel over 7,000 miles to Taiwan where they will experience the country’s agricultural education system, agricultural industry and learn more about the role Nebraska agriculture plays in Taiwan.

This is the eighth year for the student exchange program between the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Kansas City.  Each year, three students from Taiwan visit Nebraska to attend the annual Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute (NAYI), a week-long summer program coordinated by NDA.  In return, NDA chooses three NAYI delegates to travel to Taiwan.

NDA Director Greg Ibach hopes the exchange program will continue, as it benefits agriculture in both countries.  “Agriculture is a global industry, and it’s important that our students are educated and understand the important role our trading partners, such as Taiwan, play in our state’s agricultural industry.”

The trip is sponsored by the Nebraska Farm Bureau and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Kansas City and is coordinated by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA).

The students will leave for Taiwan on December 11 and will return to Nebraska on December 16.  While in Taiwan, the students will be staying at the Taichung Senior High School of Agriculture and Technology.  Their visit will include tours of the campus,  interaction with Taiwanese students, participation in presentations, visits to local farms, and observations of several agricultural research institutes.  They will also have the opportunity to do a little sightseeing and visit the Council of Agriculture: Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The students will return to the 2012 NAYI where they will share their experiences with the delegates.

The three students selected by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture are:
·         Ms. Jennifer Keyes from Springfield.  Jennifer is a senior at Platteview High School and is involved in 4-H, the Nebraska Junior Angus Association, and the Future Business Leaders of America.  Her parents are Kevin and Teresa Keyes.
·         Ms. Laura Gorecki from Farwell.  Laura is a senior at Elba Public Schools and is involved in FFA, 4-H, and the National Honor Society.  Her parents are Donald and Kathryn Gorecki.
·          Mr. Lukas Fricke from Ulysses.  Lukas is a senior at David City High School and is involved in FFA, 4-H, and National Honor Society.  His parents are Jan and Lori Fricke.



USMEF-Japan Creates Premium Positioning for Chilled U.S. Pork

A side-by-side taste challenge at a leading Tokyo hotel produced surprising results for a group of Japanese consumers who were given a chance recently to compare premium-branded U.S. chilled pork with domestic pork.

“What is Premium American Pork?” was a unique event at the Oriental Hotel Tokyo Bay because it featured 100 consumers invited through hotel advertizing and via the U.S. Meat Exporter Federation's (USMEF) Japan website, some of whom were tasting premium-branded U.S. pork for the first time. They were joined by representatives of a leading Japanese importer, who were able to hear the reactions of Japanese consumers firsthand.

“I clearly understood the tastiness of U.S. branded pork today compared to domestic pork,” said one consumer after sampling both side-by-side.

The taste test was coordinated by chef Murayama, executive chef at the Oriental Hotel. Murayama, who has developed a strong appreciation for chilled private brand U.S. pork, took the occasion to highlight his hotel’s special menu promotion featuring U.S. pork. As the sampling progressed, it was apparent that his taste was shared by the participating consumers.

“I have heard of this (U.S. branded pork), but I thought it was domestic,” said another consumer. “I’d like to buy it for its high quality.”

One consumer commented after hearing the USMEF presentation that she “understood that U.S. pork is reasonably priced because of lower feed prices in the U.S. and that U.S. producers are very careful and strict about safety and quality control.”

“These comments were very refreshing because there usually is a clear preference for domestic products,” said Takemichi Yamashoji, USMEF-Japan senior marketing director. “Most consumers in Japan do not know that U.S. pork has different brands, so reaching them – and having a major importer and distributor hear those comments – is beneficial.”

The Oriental Hotel event is the latest in a year-long USMEF initiative to enhance awareness and perceptions of U.S. chilled pork in Japan. Support for the event was provided through funding from the Pork Checkoff.

USMEF’s Yamashoji provided the audience with an overview of the attributes of U.S. pork (tastiness, juiciness, nutrition, safety and availability) and discussed the growing number of brands of chilled U.S. pork.

“Japan is not a commodity market,” said Yamashoji. “It is a high-value market. There are more than 250 Japanese private pork brands.”

To help break through some of the brand clutter, USMEF-Japan recently initiated an online campaign to invite consumers to vote for their favorite brand of U.S. chilled pork. The campaign is off to a fast start – drawing more than 10,000 voters in the first two weeks. Each of 200 lucky winners selected in a drawing at the end of the six-week promotion will receive 500 g of U.S. branded pork.

Other elements of the USMEF chilled branded pork campaign include promotions at retail and foodservice, as well as bringing visiting teams of Japanese pork importers to the United States to visit production facilities and farms. The Oriental Hotel event is one of a series of partnerships USMEF has developed with high-end hotels to feature U.S. pork on their menus and elevate the product’s image to encourage usage in other foodservice settings.

At the conclusion of the Oriental Hotel event, USMEF surveyed the participants. Prior to the event, 90 percent of the consumers did not know that U.S. pork was available in more than one brand. By the end of the day, 92 percent expressed their desire to purchase U.S. branded pork products.

Japan continues to be the highest value market for U.S. pork exports. Through the first nine months of 2011, U.S. pork exports to Japan stand at 367,042 metric tons (809.2 million pounds) valued at $1.4 billion, increases of 14 percent in volume and 18 percent in value over 2010. Japan accounts for 22.6 percent of the volume and 33 percent of the value of all U.S. pork exports this year.



EIA: US Ethanol Production to Fall

The Energy Information Administration said in its Short-Term Energy Outlook for December released Tuesday afternoon that U.S. ethanol production growth, which averaged 120,000 bpd each year between 2005 and 2010, is expected to slow to 40,000 bpd in 2011 and 10,000 bpd in 2012, reaching an average of 920,000 bpd in 2012.

EIA said ethanol production nameplate capacity at the start of 2011 was 888,000 bpd, and the estimated maximum sustainable capacity was 929,000 bpd.

Assuming ethanol net exports average about 40,000 bpd next year, EIA expects that 880,000 bpd of ethanol will be blended into gasoline in 2012.

The expiration of the federal motor fuels excise tax credit for ethanol blending is expected to have little effect on blending levels, said the EIA report, as ethanol producers do not currently appear to be capturing much of the value of the credit.



UAN32 Moves Lower

Retail fertilizer prices tracked by DTN continue to show very little movement during the fifth week of November 2011, with one notable exception.  After many months of increasing or steady prices, UAN32 showed a 9% decrease in price compared to one month earlier. The liquid nitrogen fertilizer now has an average price of $458 per ton.  The remaining seven major fertilizers all showed slight price changes in either direction during the last month.  Four fertilizers were slightly lower compared to last month. DAP had an average price of $708/ton, MAP $742/ton, potash $660/ton and UAN28 $406/ton.  Three fertilizers were slightly higher in price. Urea had an average price of $621/ton, 10-34-0 $827/ton and anhydrous $813/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.68/lb.N, anhydrous $0.50/lb.N, UAN28 $0.72/lb.N and UAN32 $0.72/lb.N.

Six of the eight major fertilizers continue to show double-digit increases in price compared to one year earlier. Leading the way higher is 10-34-0. Prices for the starter fertilizer had skyrocketed early this year, but now have fallen back. Those prices are now 55% higher compared to the fourth week of November 2010.  Urea has jumped 30% higher while potash has increased 21% from a year ago and UAN32 is now 19% higher. UAN28 is now 18% higher and anhydrous has climbed 13% higher, compared to year earlier.  The two phosphorus fertilizers continue to bring up the rear. MAP is 7% more expensive while DAP is 6% higher, compared to November of 2010.



NCGA Grower Leaders Gather in St. Louis to Cement Bonds, Set Course for 2012

Starting tomorrow, dozens of corn growers who are respected leaders in their industry and actively involved in the National Corn Growers Association will gather in St. Louis for a round of meetings to discuss the issues that will affect farmers heading into 2012. Many growers are braving difficult weather conditions and delaying preparation for the upcoming growing year to attend these meetings.

"The December action team meetings help the organization explore upcoming issues and begin developing policy recommendations while providing a face-to-face forum for grower leaders to share ideas and build relationships," said NCGA President Garry Niemeyer, a grower from Auburn, Ill. "As team members meet for the first time, they cement the bonds that will help us move forward on a variety of issues and create cohesive leadership that draws upon the varied experiences inherent in a grassroots organization."

The NCGA's six action teams and committees define, implement and measure program actions in their areas of expertise - trade policy and biotechnology, ethanol, public policy, production and stewardship, research and business development, and grower services. By specializing in a particular subject area, the growers develop a more intricate and intimate understanding of the issues their teams cover. This deeper knowledge allows the team members to serve as both experts and advisors helping to guide the organization's activities in a hands-on manner while maintaining the nuanced oversight that leads to success.



Final Webinar to Recap Year of Topics Covered in Social Media Training Program

Social Media LogosNCGA's 2011 Social Media Training Program will feature a final webinar next week that will recapping material covered throughout the year and linking each social media tactic to the larger overall agricultural picture. The program is generously supported by Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont Business.

"Throughout this year, the social media webinar series has offered growers a variety of tools and tips that are helpful when using Facebook, Google+, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr," said Grower Services Action Team Chair Brandon Hunnicutt from Nebraska. "If you have missed any one of these informative sessions, or simply would like a refresher course, I urge you to tune in next Thursday and become a part of the ongoing conversation about agriculture."

This webinar will offer a review of the main points from past presentations and provide expanded information on these topics. The session will also offer best practices and case studies for topics including Facebook, Twitter, blogs and more. Offering a big-picture look at the topics covered, attendees will have the chance to ask questions on any of the social media webinar content presented this year.

The webinar starts at 10:30 a.m. CST Thursday, December 15. Registration prior to the event is strongly recommended.



Fuel Up to Play 60, Let’s Move! Continue to Lead Fight Against Childhood Obesity
First Lady Michelle Obama and Fuel Up to Play 60 Collaborate on Youth Health and Wellness

Fuel Up to Play 60, an in-school nutrition and physical activity program launched by the National Dairy Council and the National Football League, is working to support Let’s Move!, First Lady Michelle Obama’s initiative dedicated to solving childhood obesity in a generation, to strengthen each program’s efforts to improve the overall health of our nation’s youth.

Fuel Up to Play 60 and Let’s Move!, along with the Ad Council, have produced a public service announcement encouraging youth to join the Fuel Up to Play 60 movement. The programs also rally schools to meet the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) HealthierUS School Challenge (HUSSC) through participation in Fuel Up to Play 60. In addition, both programs promote the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition’s Presidential Active Lifestyle Award (PALA+), given to students who perform 60 minutes of physical activity five days a week for six weeks and make healthy eating habits.

“I applaud the work of Fuel Up to Play 60. These programs, along with the USDA’s HealthierUS School Challenge, have the potential to help today’s youth become healthier and more physically active,” said Sam Kass, Senior Policy Adviser for Healthy Food Initiatives and Assistant White House Chef. “Like Chefs Move to Schools, Fuel Up to Play 60 offers resources that align with any school's unique health and wellness goals. This customization helps make the program successful, and helps make students’ healthy changes sustainable because they address a specific need.”

To continue the momentum, Fuel Up to Play 60 and Let’s Move! are jump starting the 2011-2012 school year with new tools and resources for students to take control of their own health and access fun ways to achieve active lifestyles. Instilling physical activity and healthy eating habits among our nation’s youth is more important than ever before, and both programs aim to help youth make sustainable changes to improve their overall health and wellness.

“Helping secure a healthy future for America’s children by guaranteeing access to physical activity and nutrient rich foods, and providing youth with the tools they need to grow up to be healthy adults, is our top priority,” said Jean Ragalie, president of the National Dairy Council, a leading organization behind Fuel Up to Play 60. “The collective strength of Let’s Move! and Fuel Up to Play 60 gives youth a greater voice in creating healthy solutions for themselves, their peers and their schools.”



15 Businesses Recognized for Supporting Iowa Beef Industry

Fifteen Iowa businesses found a tasteful way to support Iowa's cattlemen through the purchase of beef certificates. These 15 supporters make up the 2011 Iowa Beef Industry Council's "Five-Thousand Club." The club was created by the Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC) to recognize companies and organizations that purchase more than $5,000 in beef certificates annually.

"Beef Certificates are a win-win-win," according to Dan Cook, a cattlemen from New Providence and Chairman of IBIC. "The companies are buying a gift that's easy to give and appreciated by the recipient. The recipient has a delicious gift that's also flexible - it can be redeemed anywhere beef is sold for the type of beef he or she wants. And finally, the beef industry benefits by having consumers choose beef at the meatcase and their favorite restaurants."

Five new members qualified for the club in 2011 - Blacktop Service Company, Humboldt; Boone County Cattlemen, Boone; Heartland Bank, Gowrie; Trans Ova Genetics, Sioux Center and United Bank of Iowa, Ida Grove. They join repeat members, Gengler Feed Services, Remsen; Hawley Insurance, Vail; Henningsen Construction, Atlantic; Innovative Ag Services, Monticello; Prairie Knolls Country Club, New Sharon; Rice Lake Country Club, Lake Mills; Seedorff Masonry, Strawberry Point; Winnebago Co-op Telephone, Lake Mills, Iowa; Tech Mix, Stewart, Minnesota and Valley Vet Clinic, Seymour, Wisconsin.

Beef certificates come in a variety of denominations starting at $10 and are sold throughout the year by the IBIC. Beef Certificates are good for only the purchase of beef. They are redeemable at any grocery store, meat locker or restaurant that accepts checks. They can and have been used throughout the United States. Merchants treat a beef certificate like any other check and process it through their local bank. To find out more about Beef Certificates visit www.iabeef.org.



Donate Grain and Invest in Iowa's #1 Crop: Youth

By donating grain, farmers can support Iowa's number one crop, youth, say officials with the Iowa 4-H Foundation.

"As the end of the year approaches, it's a great time to support Iowa 4-H youth development programs by donating grain to the Iowa 4-H Foundation," said Scott Mortimer, foundation president. "4-H provides opportunities for youth to explore their interests, gain new skills, be productive citizens and become effective leaders. Your donation can make a difference in the lives of Iowa's young people."

Donations to the Iowa 4-H Foundation can be designated to county 4-H endowments, for statewide use or for both purposes, said Albert Grunenwald, the foundation's associate director.

"Donations to county endowments can help sustain 4-H programming in your community and provide opportunities for local youth to learn skills that will benefit them their whole lives," Grunenwald said.

"Designating your donation for statewide use helps to provide opportunities beyond your county. You can help youth throughout the state to explore their interests and become mature, confident and caring individuals who are aware of the world around them. The Iowa 4-H Foundation funds 4-H activities at the Iowa State Fair, State 4-H Conference, National 4-H Congress, National 4-H Conference and many more opportunities for Iowa's young people," Mortimer said.

Self-employed farmers who donate grain to the Iowa 4-H Foundation not only benefit youth across the state; they also reduce their self-employment tax and increase their income tax savings, Grunenwald explained.

"Giving grain can save farmers as much as 49 percent of the donation amount. For example, a grain donation worth $1,000 could save farmers an extra $490 because they gave grain in place of cash," he said.

For specific instructions on how to donate grain to support 4-H, contact Grunenwald at 515-294-4780 or abgrunen@iastate.edu.

The grain must be placed in the Iowa 4-H Foundation's name to be sold by the Iowa 4-H Foundation, Grunenwald stressed. Farmers may take the grain to their local elevator, co-op or grain merchant, where a warehouse receipt showing the Iowa 4-H Foundation as the owner of the grain should be created. Then, farmers may notify the 4-H Foundation that the grain is available to sell.



Area with Transgenics will be 20.9% Greater in Brazil's Next Harvest 

The area sown with transgenic varieties in the 2011/12 harvest will be 20.9% greater than in the last harvest, according to the 2nd crop biotechnology adoption monitoring report for the 2011/12 season, released today by Celeres. According to the forecast in the specialized consultation on agricultural economics, crops with transgenic soybeans, corn and cotton should add up to 31.8 million hectares during this cycle – a new record for the adoption of biotechnology in national agriculture.

The survey considers the recent favorable outlook during the period between deciding what to plant and the start of planting, and even exceeds the initial forecasts of Celeres itself, which in August estimated the area occupied by transgenic crops in the current cycle at 30.5 million hectares. "This increase is a reflection of a good moment for Brazilian agribusiness, and of the increased confidence that producers have to bank on transgenic varieties with a guarantee of profitability," explains Anderson Galvao, managing partner of Celeres and coordinator of the study.

Soybeans continue to account for the greater portion of this area: there will be 21.4 million hectares cultivated with genetically modified (GM) varieties in the harvest, an increase of 16.7% over the previous harvest. And the Central-Western region continues in the national leadership in the production of transgenic soybeans, responsible for 42.7% of this area (9.1 million hectares). The Southern region is next, with 40.4% of the total area (8.7 million hectares).

The area with GM cotton will also be greater, and should come to 469 thousand hectares, an increase of 32.2% over the previous harvest. In this case, too, the Central-West is in the lead, with 54.6% of the total area of cotton with biotechnology (256 thousand hectares).

Corn: varieties with combined gene technologies advancing rapidly
In the case of corn, the overview takes into consideration both the summer harvest, which should be planted between November 2011 and January 2012, as well as the winter harvest, for which work should begin only in March. The numbers for this crop have not yet been determined, but Galvao believes that the trend is also towards a significant increase. In the sum of the two harvests, with two thirds (67.3%) of the total area planted with corn in Brazil to be occupied by GM hybrids, on a total of 9.9 million hectares – an increase of 32% over the 2010/11 period.

The summer harvest should occupy 4.9 million hectares, or 45.4% of the total space occupied by corn, which represents 1.5 million hectares more than in the 2010/11 summer harvest. The southern region concentrates the largest part of these transgenic corn crops, with 2.2 million hectares (43.9% of the area with GM corn), followed by the Southeast, with 1.4 million hectares, or 29.9% of the area cultivated with hybrids with biotechnology.

According to Celeres, the new development in the case of transgenic corn is the rapid adoption of varieties with combined gene technologies (or stack genes, hybrids with resistance to insects and tolerance for herbicides), which began to be sold this year. The insect-resistant hybrids are still leading, and should occupy 4.9 million hectares, but the varieties with combined genes, expected to occupy 4.4 million hectares in 2011/12, should constitute the largest part in the crops for the next sequences, both for the 2011/12 winter harvest as well as for all of 2012/13.

In Galvao's view, it should also be noted that there are practically no commercial restrictions on the growing of genetically modified corn. "The geographic dispersal in the adoption of biotechnology for corn growing is an indication of this trend," he observes.  On the other hand, the study indicates that the adoption is less in the North and Northeast regions, which shows a certain technological imbalance among the growers. "We still need public policies that facilitate access to biotechnology for small producers in these regions, underscoring the potential for income improvement," he concludes. 

A third overview of the adoption of biotechnology for this harvest is planned for April.



Grange Leaders Say Proposed Regulations Against Teen Farm Labor Could be Detrimental to Agriculture, Entire Generation

The National Grange recently took a stand against proposed regulations by the U.S. Dept. of Labor that would limit the ability of teenagers to assist in farming operations across the country, calling the proposal "destructive" to the agriculture industry.

National Grange Legislative Director Nicole Palya Wood said the regulations take aim at many of the daily chores of rural youth and seek to drastically narrow the exemptions provided to these family farms by redefining farm ownership.

"With farming operations becoming more and more efficient and complex, this new language could leave many of our rural youth prohibited from the farms that are their heritage," Wood said Tuesday.

Ed Luttrell, president of the National Grange, America's oldest agriculture and rural America advocacy organization, said the proposed regulation goes against the grain of the American values many Grange members hold dear.

"So many of us grew up on farms, and our parents and neighbors helped us learn work ethic by giving us the opportunity, when we proved ourselves ready, to have more and more responsibility," Luttrell said. "This proposed regulation is big government stepping in to tell us when a child is ready to learn the value of work and become a contributing member of their community based on age, not on maturity. American values and a good work ethic, start at a young age, and the lessons these kids learn even doing small chores are invaluable."

The regulation, Luttrell said, "will have a direct and detrimental impact to agriculture, and would further exacerbate one of the most serious problems we as a nation face: the failure to see value in hard work."

"In our organization, many, if not most, of our leaders learned our work ethic on the farm. Even though many of us chose not to become farmers directly, we learned everything about what it is to put in a full and hard day's work, to have accountability and to do a job with pride from our time on the farm," Luttrell said. "The idea to limit on farm employment for teens is destructive to not just the agriculture industry, not just specific farm families, but to their entire generation."

Many groups have argued against the proposed regulations, citing an even more removed view of the agriculture industry for the American public.

Luttrell said the proposed regulation would "limit the exposure young people have to farming and could have a lasting impact on agriculture."

"Most children and teens have never been on a farm. Those who have, and who wish to work on one, are more than likely going to be the producers for the next generation," Luttrell said. "If we don't engage young adults in farming practices and encourage their interest in agriculture, we may threaten our very supply of food and fiber. Consider that a majority of current farmers are 55-years-old or older. Without training and encouraging youth to farm, we are soon going to run out of knowledgeable and motivated agriculturalists. This proposal makes that an even greater likelihood."

Wood also cited recent predictions that show U.S. farmers and ranchers must double production by 2050 to fulfill global food needs.

"We must commit to a safe but vibrant and expanding legacy of future growers, farmers, and ranchers rather than restrict their access, education, and involvement in family farms," Wood said.

Luttrell said the U.S. Dept. of Labor's citation of safety concerns regarding teenage farm labor are valiant but the proposed regulation as a whole is more hurtful than helpful. 

"As a family organization, the safety and well being of our youth is a top priority for the Grange, because we know that we are training tomorrow's farmers and ranchers. Bestowed with that responsibility, we also understand that it is necessary to provide a safe and secure setting where our youth can develop their interests in agriculture and carry that knowledge into the future," Luttrell said.

Luttrell also said the proposed regulation would make farming and ranching an even more expensive endeavor, and said burdensome and unnecessary regulations are something the Grange actively lobbies against.

"I think this regulation is unnecessary and is going to add to the cost of doing business in America," Luttrell said.



Grange Spreads Holiday Cheer by Donating Christmas Trees 

Six Christmas trees that were decorated and will be donated to those in need were on display at the 145th Annual National Grange Convention in early November.

"Each year, there are many of our older members who can no longer put up and decorate their own trees. There are also those families that have fallen on hard times and cannot afford a tree. We're a community organization and we hope to bring the Christmas spirit to these people by donating a tree that was lovingly decorated," National Grange President Ed Luttrell said.

The trees represented each of the hosting states - Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas - as well as the National Grange.

The Christmas tree donated and decorated by the Kansas State Grange will be given to assisted living center "The Legends" at Capital Ridge in Topeka, Kan., where Morning Grange member Lola Mae Bostwick is a resident.

The tree donated by Texas State Grange is also going to an assisted living center. Flo Carter, a member of David Crockett Grange, lives in a center in San Antonio, Texas, and will be a recipient of the tree.

Blue House in Langly, Okla., will be the recipient of the Oklahoma State Grange Christmas tree. Blue House provides items for people in need.

The Colorado State Grange will donate its Christmas tree to the women's shelter in El Reno, Okla., and the National Grange Christmas tree was donated to the women's shelter in Tulsa, Okla.

The Christmas Tree donated and decorated by Nebraska State Grange was also donated.

This annual effort has provided more than a hundred trees to those in need.



Land O'Lakes Launches 'We Care for Calves' Facebook Page

Land O'Lakes Animal Milk Products has announced the creation of its 'We Care for Calves' Facebook page, a resource for everything from information on the latest calf feed technologies to a forum to share and connect with fellow calf raisers and dairy producers.

The 'We Care for Calves' project was launched in an effort to better educate and connect calf raisers and dairy producers and will allow industry professionals, calf raisers and dairy producers alike, to not only interact and ask questions with industry experts and company representatives, but with one another.

"Our company is committed to the future of your herd," says Larry VanRoekel, director of marketing with Land O'Lakes Animal Milk Products. "Whether it's a question related to three times a day feeding, feeding a full potential program or cold weather management we're available to answer your questions. The 'We Care for Calves' Facebook page is one more tool that will allow for two-way interaction."

Facebook users can connect with the growing community by visiting www.facebook.com/WeCareforCalves. 



Triumph of Ag Show Feb 29 - March 1, 2012 in Omaha

     One of the Midwest's premier indoor farm events, the TRIUMPH OF AGRICULTURE EXPOSITION will be held Feb 29 and March 1, 2012  at the CenturyLink Center-Omaha, 10th and Capitol Avenue, just off I-480.  The 46th Annual Farm and Ranch Machinery Show will once again be filled with the latest agricultural innovations, equipment and supplies with more than 900 exhibits for farmers, ranchers, and their wives to visit all on one level of over 200,000 square feet in the state-of-the-art  CenturyLink Center-Omaha.

     "It's an excellent opportunity to see all types of Short-Line farm equipment, new products, labor and time saving ideas all under one roof," says Bob Mancuso, Sr., the Show's Producer.  "The Triumph of Ag Expo is the best place for farmers to find answers for what they do control while taking advantage of the new technologies at the Expo - ranging from machinery to new plant varieties that are available."  The Farm Show is open 9 AM to 4 PM on Wed and 9 AM to 3 PM on Thurs.  Advance free admission tickets can be obtained from Exhibitors, County Extension agents, farm machinery and equipment dealers or at the CenturyLink Center-Omaha door.  This is an ideal time for area Farm Operators to find ways to improve productivity and increase profits, before spring field work begins.

     Brien McCready from John Deere and A & M Green Power and Show Councilman says he's looking for a great Show  at the CenturyLink Center Omaha and says, "The Triumph of Ag Expo is always packed with lots of new improvements and helpful information." At no other time this spring will area Farm Operators be able to see this much farm equipment and technology on display.  The Triumph of Ag Expo offers visitors a hands-on experience with continuous demonstrations so those attending will be able to compare and evaluate quickly and conveniently, all under one roof, in one location and on one level with over 4,500 on-site parking available.

     Regarded as one of the largest indoor diversified short-line farm machinery shows, Terry Twiestmeyer, President of Twiestmeyer & Associates of Grand Island, Nebraska and general Show Co-Chairman said, "The Expo has something for every kind of farm operation," including tillage equipment, planters, monitor and control systems, soil testing equipment, mowers, cattle chutes, augers, fertilizers, various seed hybrids, feeders, tanks and pumps, hay moving and handling equipment, plows, combines, computers and software, tractors, and many more agricultural products and services for today's farmers and ranchers.
   
      Bob Mancuso, Jr., Show Director, said if you are interested in agriculture and farming, this year’s Expo is the place to be on Feb 29th and March 1 - 2012.  In addition to all of the latest equipment, products, and services - there will be seminars throughout the Show, craft items and displays, antique farm tractors and equipment, and special programs.  The Triumph of Ag Expo is a charter member of the North American Farm Show Council – the Top 25 shows in North America!