Thursday August 21 Ag News

Rural Mainstreet Index Sinks for August:  Farm Equipment Sales Decline to Record Low

The Rural Mainstreet Index moved to its lowest level in almost two years, according to the August survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy.  The index has been trending lower since June 2013 when the reading stood at 60.5. 

Nebraska: The Nebraska RMI for August fell to 47.8 from 51.8 in July. The state’s farmland-price index for August sank to 30.4 from 39.2 in July. Nebraska’s new-hiring index decreased to 47.3 from July’s 52.3. Rural Mainstreet job growth over last 12 months: -0.5 percent (regional low). 

Iowa: The August RMI for Iowa fell to 50.6 from July’s 52.9. The state’s farmland-price index for August sank to 40.7 from July’s 48.0. Iowa’s new-hiring index for August declined to 55.5 from July’s 62.3. Rural Mainstreet job growth over last 12 months: 0.5 percent.

Overall: 
The Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI), which ranges between 0 and 100, with 50.0 representing growth neutral, fell to 48.3 from July’s 51.8.

“Agriculture commodity prices have plummeted for crop farmers in our region and are expected to move even lower in the months ahead. This decline has spilled over into the broader rural economy according to our survey. With record crop supplies anticipated by analysts, I expect readings to move even lower in the months ahead,” said Ernie Goss, Ph.D., the Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.

Farming and ranching:
The farmland and ranchland-price index for August slumped to 41.4, from July’s 48.3. “Much weaker crop prices are taking the air out of agriculture land prices. This is the ninth straight month that the index has moved below growth neutral,” said Goss.

This month, bankers were asked to project farmland prices for the next 12 months. On average, bank CEOs expect farmland prices to fall by 4.8 percent. Just six months ago, bankers expected a decline of 3.2 percent over the next 12 months. “Clearly, bankers are becoming more pessimistic regarding the trend in farmland prices,” said Goss.

Despite the decline in farmland prices over the past nine months, cash rents on farmland expanded from $258 per acre in March of this year to $285 in August. “This will place a financial pinch on the farmer renting land and selling at today’s slumping crop prices,” said Goss.

The August farm-equipment sales index slumped to a record low 25.5 from July’s very weak 33.4. The index has been below growth neutral for 13 straight months. “This is lowest reading that we have recorded for the equipment index since we began the monthly survey in 2006. The rapid decline in agriculture commodity prices is causing farmers to become more cautious in their equipment purchase,” said Goss.

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. The survey is supported by a grant from Security State Bank in Ansley, Neb.

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, former chairman of the Independent Community Banks of America, created the monthly economic survey in 2005.



More Nebraska Kids Studying Agriculture

One of these schools is not like the others.  They’re all schools that have added agriculture programs. And the Omaha school did it before these rural schools.  In all, 157 schools are now bringing agriculture into the classroom.

State ag education director Matt Kreifels says, “Agriculture is the number one industry in state of Nebraska and anytime we can develop a pipeline to get students exposure and career preparation for the industry is huge, and also for the students because there’s a lot of good jobs out there for them.”

Many of the new programs this school year are in Class B and C schools like Adams Central. But it’s been a success even in Nebraska’s most urban school district.

Kreifels said, “We are happy two years ago we added a program at Omaha Bryan High School. We’re exposing students from very urban population to agriculture and they could not be more excited.”

Now officially known simply as FFA, Omaha kids say their friends don’t quite get what they’re part of.

Rosario Lamere said, “They honestly think it’s weird because we’re city kids and want to do agriculture is different for them.”

FFA has traditionally focused on the farm and ranch.

“We don’t have that in the city but we do have agriculture things,” Lindsey Parks, another Omaha student said.

There’s a big focus these days on science and natural resources. The Omaha kids say there’s a growing interest in urban agriculture and they’re excited to add a greenhouse to the school. Plus each student takes on a supervised ag experience.

Rosario said, “It’s a good experience, opens a lot of doors for us.”

“Looks good on a college application too,” Lindsey added.

New programs can be tough to start. It’s more than adding an FFA chapter. It’s integrated in the curriculum and requires a teacher.

So state leaders are thrilled to see it expand, whether in Omaha or Hastings.

Kreifels said they continue to recruit young people to become ag teachers, to meet the growing demand.



Cargill pledges $1 million to Raising Nebraska

With a major presence in Nebraska, Cargill has become the title sponsor of Raising Nebraska, pledging $1 million dollars over five years.

“As an agriculture and food company, we really identified with one of Raising Nebraska goals of showing how Nebraska agriculture touches everyone,” said Robert Racek, the Omaha-based Western Region general manager of Cargill’s grain business.   “The world’s food gets its start every day with agriculture and Nebraska is a major player in that global marketplace.”

The year-round Raising Nebraska exhibit is located in the Nebraska building on the state fairgrounds and will open Friday, August 22 (tomorrow morning) at the Nebraska State Fair.  

"We are thrilled that Cargill has agreed to partner with us on Raising Nebraska," said Dr. Charles Hibberd, dean of extension at the University of Nebraska—Lincoln.  "Cargill's global leadership is a good match for the messages and experiences in Raising Nebraska as we showcase world-class agriculture, food production and farmers and ranchers in our state.   We look forward to drawing upon Cargill's expertise and insight as Raising Nebraska continues to evolve and grow in the future."

Jarrod Gillig, general manager at Cargill’s beef plant in Schuyler, said Nebraska is one of the largest states for Cargill with more than 20 locations and 4,000 employees.  “These businesses go from farm to fork including grain, animal feed, corn milling and meat processing.  All of Cargill’s businesses were part of the pledge, which also included a match from the corporate offices in Minneapolis.

Raising Nebraska is a 25,000 square foot education exhibit that will serve as a year-round, interactive experience focused on where Nebraska agriculture is today—and, where it will be in the future. The exhibit shows how Nebraska farmers and ranchers are positioning themselves to meet the global demand for food, feed, fuel and fiber—while protecting natural resources and being environmentally responsible.  
 
The exhibit is the result of a partnership between the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources (IANR) at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and the Nebraska State Fair. Key areas of focus for the exhibit includes food security, water management, technology and innovation, animal agriculture, the new bio-economy, crop production, environmental stewardship, the economic impact of agriculture in Nebraska and consumer-focused information about food production and food safety.



UNL Presents Food Microbiology Workshop for the Food Manufacturing Industry

A University of Nebraska-Lincoln food microbiology workshop will focus on the basics of food safety and the microbiological testing methods commonly used by the food industry.

The workshop, presented by UNL's Food Processing Center March 24-26, 2015, will provide basic food microbiology training to those individuals working in testing laboratories, with no formal training in microbiology.

"The workshop is delivered in both the classroom and laboratory environments and includes fundamental principles, demonstrations and hands-on sessions covering general microbiology and pathogen detection," said Jayne Stratton, research assistant professor and laboratory services manager. "Attendees will acquire an understanding of the methods used to isolate important spoilage and indicator microorganisms along with a variety of techniques utilized for food-borne pathogen detection. The program also provides curriculum on the ecology of microorganisms and pathogens in foods, and what measures are used to prevent their growth. The importance of using validated testing methods will also be discussed during the workshop."

Faculty and staff experts from UNL's Department of Food Science and Technology and the Food Processing Center will present lectures and interactive sessions to workshop participants. In addition, experts from leading rapid pathogen detection equipment manufacturers will be present to provide demonstrations and overviews of the latest technology.

UNL is one of only a few universities that offer a food microbiology workshop to the food industry and it is anticipated that food industry professionals from throughout the country will attend this workshop. The Food Processing Center is nationally recognized for its support of the food industry. The center, created in 1983, provides comprehensive services to food manufacturers throughout the country and in many foreign countries.

Workshop capacity is limited and pre-registration is required.  For more information or to register visit the website fpc.unl.edu/training or contact Jill Gifford at 402-472-2819 or e-mail jgifford1@unl.edu



EPC Adopts Federal Rules on Animal Feeding Operations

In a unanimous vote, the Environmental Protection Commission adopted rules governing totally roofed confinement feeding operations.

The rules require these facilities to have a federal permit to discharge to waters of the U.S. Called a national pollutant discharge elimination system or NPDES permit, operations that need the permits must meet federal design, construction and monitoring standards.

However, the NPDES permit allows discharges of effluent to a water of the U.S. under certain conditions such as heavy rainfall. Depending upon the location, an NPDES-permitted facility in Iowa would be allowed to discharge if more than 5.6 inches of rain fell within 24 hrs.

“Iowa has 167 open feedlots with NPDES permits,” said Bill Ehm, DNR administrator for environmental services. “These unroofed or partially roofed facilities have historically had some runoff through the feedlot when it rains. I don’t expect many NPDES permits to be issued to confinements.

“Most confinements will not need the protection of an NPDES permit, because they are unlikely to discharge,” Ehm added. “Most manure releases we’ve had in Iowa have been caused by a one-time event – like an accident or failure of a pipe – problems that the producer can demonstrate have been fixed with permanent measures that eliminate the cause of the discharge.

“However, the owner of a confinement or open lot that is likely to discharge would be wise to apply for an NPDES permit and the protection it provides in severe weather conditions.”

Any NPSDES permit holders must continue to meet existing requirements of Iowa law for construction permits and siting, manure management plans and land application.

The Iowa Legislature directed the commission to adopt the federal rules. Adoption was also a condition of a work plan agreement signed between the DNR and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Sept.11, 2013.

More information is available at www.iowadnr.gov/afo/.



Integrated Cropping Systems Team Addresses Management of Pesticide Resistance

There is much to consider when making management decisions in production agriculture – including the pesticide resistance of target pests (weed, insects, plant pathogens and nematodes). The complexity of crop production decision-making is escalated by frogeye leaf spot, the arrival of Palmer amaranth, and corn rootworm resistance – a few of the issues that have Iowa farmers concerned about pesticide resistance.

Members of the Iowa State University research and extension crops team will be at the Farm Progress Show talking to visitors about current and potential resistance issues and related management practices. The team includes agronomists, entomologists, plant pathologists and microbiologists, weed scientists and a climatologist.

Insects
Erin Hodgson, extension entomologist and associate professor of entomology, is a crops team leader and describes resistance as “the decreased susceptibility of a pest to a management strategy.” Often, resistance is associated with pesticides but it could include cultural control (e.g., crop rotation) and host plant resistance (e.g., Bt for insects).

“When it comes to insects, they are always trying to evolve to be more competitive,” said Hodgson. “Eventually, insects will overcome our standard management tactics. Some, like western corn rootworm, just do it faster than most.”

Weeds
Weeds with resistance to herbicides were first found in the 1950s. Now that Palmer amaranth has arrived in five Iowa counties – along with its history of resistance in other states – herbicide resistant weeds are getting more attention. Bob Hartzler, agronomy professor and extension weed scientist with Iowa State University, says the solution to managing the situation is simple – farmers must stop doing what they are doing (referring to spraying glyphosate on fields planted with seeds genetically engineered to tolerate the chemical) and take different actions.

“Start deploying more diverse weed management strategies that incorporate some combination of crop rotation, cover crops, manual tillage, and a broader range of herbicides less dependent on glyphosate,” said Hartzler.

Diseases and Integrated Pest Management
Daren Mueller, extension soybean pathologist and coordinator of the Integrated Pest Management program at Iowa State, says pesticide resistance results from using the same pesticide repeatedly. When resistant weeds, insects and fungi are present, Mueller says a biotype of an organism has survived exposure to a pesticide that would normally kill an individual of that species. Resistance can be managed several ways so that pesticides remain a useful way of controlling pest organisms now and in the future.

“Only apply pesticides when needed – scout fields to determine pest populations and only use pesticides when thresholds are met. Then follow label directions,” Mueller said. “Rotate types of pesticides during the year and from year to year. And use alternative management options such as production practices, natural enemies, crop resistance and crop rotation.”

The Iowa State crops team and IPM program provide up-to-date resources and information through trainings, field days, demonstration sites, online newsletter and publications. The team publishes articles in the Integrated Crop Management newsletter at www.extension.iastate.edu/CropNews/ containing the latest information available. Scouting and pest identification guides created by team members are available from the Extension Online Store at https://store.extension.iastate.edu/ProductList?Keyword=CSI.



ISA Members Presented with Environmental Leader Award

Iowa soybean farmers were among those presented with the Environmental Leader Award at a ceremony during the Iowa State Fair.

Eighty-eight farmers and their families were recognized for their commitment to improving water quality and maintaining healthy soil. More than half of the farmers recognized are members of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA).

“These farmers are leaders in their ideas and their practices,” said Roger Wolf, ISA Environmental Programs and Services Director. “Taking care of the natural resources on their farms will have a big impact on the future of farming.”

Producers who receive this honor have implemented conservation practices on their farms allowing them to improve and protect Iowa’s natural resources and the environment. They are also community leaders and promote their practices to other farmers. The awards are sponsored by the Iowa Governor’s office, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Former ISA director Jim Andrews was on the award selection committee.

All award winners received a signed certificate from Gov. Terry Branstad, a metal sign donated by Monsanto commemorating the honor and a commemorative program from The Nature Conservancy. After the ceremony Hagie Manufacturing, based in Clarion, hosted a catered lunch in honor of the winners.

“Congratulations to all the winners and thank you for your dedication to improving our natural resources,” Wolf said.

ISA’s Environmental Programs and Services and On-Farm Network teams assist members  to improve their natural resource management and implement environmentally sound cropping systems.

ISA member winners are (listed alphabetically by county):
Adair: Randy, Janalee and Merritt Caviness; Senivac, Inc.
Black Hawk: Blake Hollis; Lanchaven Farms, Inc.
Black Hawk: Nick & Nancy Meier
Buena Vista/Cherokee: Tracy and Donna Bengston
Buena Vista/Pocahontas County: Richard & Deboney Langner
Butler: Dennis and Merlette Cassmann
Carroll: Larry and Theresa Greving; Greving Family Farm
Clarke/Madison: Chad & Ryan Pontier; Pontier Farms
Clay: Chuck & Kevin White
Clayton/Allamakee: Rob & Mary Sass
Dallas: Douglas & Rhonda Volz
Davis: Ward Family, Steve & Sonya, Ryan & Brianna, Richard & Phyllis; Ward Farms
Des Moines/Henry: Brad Dodds; Dodds Family Farm
Dickinson: Scott Mitchell
Fremont: Kilpatrick Family Farms
Greene: Donald Gibson
Grundy: Harvin & Esther Meyer; Meydan Farms
Guthrie: Dennis & Jacque Hoover; Cripple Creek Farm Corporation
Hancock/Cerro Gordo: Wayne & Val Koehler
Henry: Jeff and Gayle Olson
Humboldt/Webster: Doug & Kim Adams
Ida: James B. Irwin
Jackson: Knake Farms, Inc.
Jasper: Gordon Wassenaar
Jasper/Marion: Ward Van Dyke
Kossuth/Humboldt: Alan & Andrew Laubenthal
Lucas: Mike & Nicke Hunter; Hunter Brothers, Inc.
Madison/Clarke/Warren: Tim Palmer Family Farm
Marion: Vernon and Eleanor Boot; LC Farms
Marion/Mahaska: Cliff, Sheryl & Scott Mulder; Mulder Farms
Mitchell: Mike & Gayle Heimer; Foothill Farms, Inc.
Mitchell: Dean A. & Lucinda A. Sponheim
Montgomery: Bill & Margaret Thomas
O’Brien: Bruce & Carol Rohwer
Palo Alto: Jim Stillman; Generations Farm
Sac: Lynn & Joy Smith, Seth & Loretta Smith
Story: Hermanson Family; Woodland Farms Inc.
Washington: Dennis D. Berger & Son, Inc.
Washington: Jim Cuddeback; Cuddeback Farms, Inc.
Washington: Joel and Laura Huber; Huber Crops and Chops, Inc.
Webster: AJ & Kellie Blair
Woodbury/Cherokee: Roger & John Wilcox; Wilcox Farms, Inc.
Wright: Jerry and Jan Blackman, Luella Brotherton; Brotherton Family Trust
Wright: Duncan & Lillian Campbell; Campbell Family Farms
Wright/Humboldt: Gary & Shannon Fisher, Jim Fisher, Annette Watts; F&F Farms Ltd.
Wright/Humboldt: Mattew J. & Oksana Siefker



Red Meat Production Down 6 Percent From Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 3.91 billion pounds in July, down 6 percent from the 4.16 billion pounds produced in July 2013.

Beef production, at 2.09 billion pounds, was 9 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.60 million head, down 10 percent from July 2013. The average live weight was up 18 pounds from the previous year, at 1,320 pounds.

Veal production totaled 7.8 million pounds, 19 percent below July a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 48,500 head, down 31 percent from July 2013. The average live weight was up 41 pounds from last year, at 275 pounds.

Pork production totaled 1.80 billion pounds, down 2 percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 8.46 million head, down 7 percent from July 2013. The average live weight was up 12 pounds from the previous year, at 283 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 13.9 million pounds, was down 2 percent from July 2013. Sheep slaughter totaled 210,200 head, 2 percent below last year. The average live weight was 132 pounds, down 1 pound from July a year ago.

January to July 2014 commercial red meat production was 27.4 billion pounds, down 3 percent from 2013. Accumulated beef production was down 6 percent from last year, veal was down 11 percent, pork was down slightly from last year, and lamb and mutton production was up 1 percent.

By State  (million pounds, % change from 7/2013)
Nebraska ....:     609.3                 96      
Iowa ...........:     519.6                100      
Kansas ......:      450.0                  88      



United States and Canadian Cattle Inventory Down 3 Percent from 2012

All cattle and calves in the United States and Canada combined totaled 108.3 million head on July 1, 2014, down 3 percent from the 111.3 million on July 1, 2012. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 43.9 million head, were down 2 percent from 2012.
                       
All cattle and calves in the United States as of July 1, 2014, totaled 95.0 million head, 3 percent below the 97.8 million on July 1, 2012. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 39.0 million head, were down 2 percent from 2012.

All cattle and calves in Canada as of July 1, 2014, totaled 13.3 million head, down 1 percent from the 13.5 million on July 1, 2013. All cows and heifers that have calved, at 4.87 million, were down 1 percent from a year ago.



United States and Canadian Hog Inventory Down 4 Percent

United States and Canadian inventory of all hogs and pigs for June 2014 was 75.1 million head. This was down 4 percent from June 2013, and down 5 percent from June 2012. The breeding inventory, at 7.08 million head, was down slightly from a year ago and equal to 2012. Market hog inventory, at 68.0 million head, was down 4 percent from last year and down 6 percent from 2012. The semi-annual pig crop, at 68.1 million head, was down 4 percent from 2013 and down 5 percent from 2012. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 6.93 million head, up 1 percent from last year but down 2 percent from 2012.

United States inventory of all hogs and pigs on June 1, 2014 was 62.1 million head. This was down 5 percent from June 1, 2013 and down 1 percent from March 1, 2014. The breeding inventory, at 5.85 million head, was down slightly from last year but up slightly from the previous quarter. Market hog inventory, at 56.3 million head, was down 5 percent from last year, and down 1 percent from last quarter. The pig crop, at 27.4 million head, was down 5 percent from 2013 and down 8 percent from 2012. Sows farrowed during this period totaled 2.80 million head, down slightly from 2013 and down 5 percent from 2012. 

Canadian inventory of all hogs and pigs on July 1, 2014 was 12.9 million head. This was up 1 percent from July 1, 2013 and up 2 percent from July 1, 2012. The breeding inventory, at 1.22 million head, was up 1 percent from last year and up 1 percent from 2012. Market hog inventory, at 11.7 million head, was up 1 percent from last year and up 3 percent from 2012. The semi-annual pig crop, at 13.4 million head, was down 3 percent from 2013 and down 5 percent from 2012. Sows farrowing during this period totaled 1.26 million head, down 2 percent from last year and down 3 percent from 2012.



Do You Have a Farm Conservation Story to Tell?

Is conservation an important part of your farm operation?  Apply to the Conservation Legacy Awards program and you could be recognized nationally. But don’t delay, time is running out to apply.

There will be winners from three regions (Midwest, Northeast and South).
-    Winners receive an expense-paid trip for two to the Commodity Classic conference and trade show, February 26-28, 2015 in Phoenix, Ariz.
-    The farms and conservation practices of winners will be featured in videos and in a special insert in Corn & Soybean Digest magazine.
-    A National Conservation Legacy Award winner will be chosen from the three regional winners.

Applications must be submitted online by 11:59 p.m. on September 1, 2014.  

More information and the online application can be found on the web at http://soygrowers.com/award-programs/conservation-legacy/.

The Conservation Legacy Awards program is sponsored by the American Soybean Association, BASF, Monsanto, the United Soybean Board/soybean checkoff and Corn & Soybean Digest.



Raymond to be Keynote Speaker for 2014 BIO Livestock Biotech Summit

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) is pleased to announce that Dr. Richard Raymond, former undersecretary of agriculture for food safety at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), will deliver a keynote address at the 2014 BIO Livestock Biotech Summit.

“As we all know, the world's population is increasing, but the amount of land available to raise crops and for animals to forage is not increasing, nor is the amount of water for animals to drink. Food security is vital for human health and political stability,” says Dr. Raymond.  “To achieve food security, we must utilize technologies that are safe for animals, humans and the environment, and we must communicate better about these technologies to dispel the many erroneous myths and perceptions that float around the internet and other media.”

This unique conference to be held September 16-18, 2014, at the Sioux Falls Convention Center in Sioux Falls, SD, examines the scientific potential and political challenges of using animal biotechnology to improve human and animal health, food production and the environment.  Previous Summits in 2010 and 2012 have drawn attendees including researchers, regulators, investors, and industry executives from around the globe.

Before serving as the Undersecretary for Food Safety, Dr. Raymond was Chief Medical Officer for the Nebraska Health and Human Services System.  Additionally, he served as director of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Regulation & Licensure division where he oversaw regulatory programs involving health care and environmental issues. Currently, Dr. Raymond is a noted food safety and public health consultant and an editor for two food safety blogs on Meatingplace.com and Feedstuffs Foodlink.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Raymond speak at this year’s Livestock Biotech Summit,” said Cathy Enright, Executive Vice President, Food and Agriculture at BIO.

“As a leader in food safety, Dr. Raymond will share with Summit attendees what tools will be needed to enable U.S. agriculture to produce a safe, high-quality and affordable product, and how education of policymakers needs to go hand-in-hand with our scientific research.”



Biodiesel Benefits Animal Ag in Multiple Ways

Biodiesel production has significantly benefitted the soybean industry as a whole – but one of biodiesel’s most significant contributions is not often highlighted. Animal ag farmers benefits from biodiesel, too. That’s because soybean meal prices fall as more biodiesel is produced, requiring poultry and livestock farmers to pay less for their feed.

This often overlooked partnership takes place because soybeans consist of about 80 percent meal and slightly less than 20 percent oil. Producing biodiesel raises the demand for the oil component, which can only be obtained by simultaneously creating more soybean meal. Learn more about this relationship through an infographic.

Lower Cost of Feed Rations
“Demand for biodiesel creates demand for soybean oil, which, in turn, causes more crush and lowers the cost of soybean meal,” explains Lewis Bainbridge, USB secretary and Ethan, South Dakota soybean farmer. “That lowers the price of rations for our poultry and livestock customers.”

A checkoff-funded study in 2010 found that biodiesel production saved animal ag $4.8 billion in soybean meal costs from 2005 to 2009. Poultry and livestock farmers can add to that savings by using biodiesel themselves.

Higher Value of Animal Products
On the other end of livestock farming – biodiesel’s demand for animal tallows and lards elevates the value of those products as well. In fact, the values of livestock fats and tallows more than doubled from 2007 to 2012 alone.

“Next time you fill up with biodiesel, think not only of supporting the soybean industry, but reducing costs and raising the value of livestock farming,” adds Bainbridge. “Every gallon of biodiesel sold supports soybean farmers, processors and animal ag at once.”



What are the Laws in Regards to Drones on the Farm?

While the appeal of using unmanned aerial systems by farmers and growers to aid in farm operations is growing in popularity, before you launch a drone over your crops to gauge field conditions, be aware that doing so could result in a hefty fine from the Federal Aviation Administration.

So says Peggy Hall, assistant professor and Ohio State University Extension field specialist in agricultural and resource law. Hall said that while the technology is available for farmers and growers to utilize drones for their farm operations, the rules of who can use it and how aren’t as clear. OSU Extension is the outreach arm of Ohio State University’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.

"In this case, the technology is clearly ahead of the law," she said. "While there are unmanned aerial systems available for purchase by consumers, the regulatory system on their usage is still developing. While landowners, farmers and growers need to know if it is legal to use UASs on their own land to monitor crops or for other uses on their farm, at this point it's still a gray area in the law."

Hall will talk about UASs during a workshop at this year's Farm Science Review Sept. 16-18 at the Molly Caren Agricultural Center in London, Ohio. Her presentation, 'Drones on The Farm -- What Are the Laws?' will be held Sept. 17 at 1:20 p.m. during the Question the Authorities session at the Review.

The FAA is expected to propose rules by the end of the year for drones weighing less than 55 pounds, which would typically be what most farmers would use for their farm operations, she said, noting that regulations for larger UASs will come later.

But until such regulations are set, some farmers assume that they can fly UASs on their farms for personal use, Hall said.



ASA Urges Action on Pending Biotech Approvals in Letters to USTR, EU Commission

In letters sent this week to the European Commission and the U.S. Trade Representative, the American Soybean Association (ASA) urged that the European Union (EU) take action in September on nine biotech events that have received positive safety reviews and are awaiting final import authorization. ASA was joined on the letters by 18 other farm, commodity, grain processing, grain trade, and biotechnology associations throughout the U.S. agricultural value chain. There are currently nine products, including four soybean products, which have already received positive European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) opinions and completed the subsequent review process, but are still awaiting final authorization for import for food and feed use from the EU’s College of Commissioners.

In a letter to United States Trade Representative (USTR) Michael Froman, the groups encouraged the Administration to contact EU Commission President Barroso to ensure action on the pending events in September and to ask the EU to respect its obligations under the World Trade Organization (WTO) to make timely regulatory decisions on new biotechnology applications.

In a letter to the EU Commission, the groups stated that “the time required for EU decisions on new biotech crops has only lengthened in recent years and no authorizations have been issued since November 2013. Some of the products have been before the European Commission since the end of 2013 and were submitted to EFSA more than five years ago.

“Several of these products are already being commercialized under stewardship programs in the U.S. and elsewhere, and failure to approve them at the meeting of the College of Commissioners in September will increase the risk of trade disruptions during the coming months.”

The letters emphasized that the delays could cause feed shortages and price increases, which would affect European producers, traders, livestock industry and consumers.



Comments About Unseen WTO Decision on COOL “Meaningless, Irresponsible”

In response to reports fanning an unsubstantiated and un-sourced rumor that the World Trade Organization (WTO) has made a firm decision on the Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL) dispute brought by Canada and Mexico against the United States, Roger Johnson, president of National Farmers Union released the following statement:

“Let’s be crystal clear.  These are unsourced and unsubstantiated rumors and we can’t and won’t comment on a WTO report that we have not yet seen and is not yet public. Nor should anyone else. There is often a tendency for these things to leak out; and they are sometimes accurate and sometimes not accurate.  But what they almost always do is tell a small, biased, one-sided part of the story.  Speculation, at this point, is not only meaningless, but also irresponsible.

“As such, any talks of trade retaliation is fear mongering and grossly pre-mature.  We’ve been hearing these stories from some of our good friends in Canada for a long time, and the U.S. has always said it will comply with WTO rules.  In fact, the rules around which these rumors are now based were written precisely to conform with the most recent WTO rulings, so this will surely figure into the final decision.”



Despite Current Issues, China ‘Hit for the Cycle’ in 2014
(from USGC)

Despite all of the current challenges surrounding imports for feed ingredients, China has accomplished a feat never before seen in agricultural exports: according to Chinese customs and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) data, China has imported more than 3 million metric tons each of U.S. corn, sorghum and distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) for this marketing year, which ends Aug. 31.

Based on the rapid pace of China’s corn purchases at the beginning of the marketing year, few people would have thought the most challenging component of this three-part purchasing record would have been corn imports. But following China’s Nov. 13 announcement of zero tolerance for Syngenta’s MIR 162 trait, China’s corn imports from the United States ground to a halt.

However, the slowdown in corn imports contributed to a surge in sorghum imports. This year, China is forecast to take more than 30 percent of U.S. sorghum production, making it by far the single biggest user for the grain. The U.S. Grains Council has actively been promoting sorghum in China, due to the fact that it is not subject to a tariff rate quota restriction, like corn.

Despite all of the complexities surrounding China’s feedstuff needs, one thing remains constant: end-users love the quality and value of imported feed products. Huge import margins remain for corn, sorghum and DDGS due to high domestic price support policies. Despite several years of production increases and a record crop last year, corn prices in China continue to rise. Additionally, the demand for high-quality corn continues to outpace available supply. According to the most recent USGC data, theoretical import margins into southern Chinese ports now stand at almost $180 per ton.

USGC staff members are working tirelessly and creatively to find a solution to recent trade disruptions regarding corn and DDGS. Despite the current issues, it is important to stay focused on aggregate demand and to acknowledge the important landmark of China taking than 3 million tons of these important products.

“Factoring in China importing 7.5 million tons of U.S. soybeans last month, if this were baseball, you could say China has ‘hit for the cycle,’ getting a single, a double, a triple and a home run in the same baseball game,” said Kevin Roepke, USGC director of trade development in China. “The demand is clearly there. This is quite a historic moment, especially when you consider all of the challenges.”



Vessels Loading Again at United Grain; U.S. Wheat Industry Remains Vigilant
Shawn Campbell, USW Assistant Director, West Coast Office

On Aug. 12, Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) grain inspectors reported to work for the first time in 37 days at the United Grain export terminal in Vancouver, WA. The elevator is once again loading vessels with official inspection services. USW will continue to push for the free flow of grain to our overseas customers.

Early last month, WSDA pulled its inspectors from the elevator, citing safety concerns after state police stopped escorting the inspectors across International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) picket lines under orders from Washington’s governor Jay Inslee. USDA’s Grain Inspection Packers & Stockyards Administration decided not to provide Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) inspectors to the facility as replacements, citing the same safety concerns. As a result, United Grain did not have official inspection services and was unable to load grain for export, except in a few specialized cases, sparking concerns across the U.S. grain sector and from traditional PNW customers. 

The struggle over official inspection services should prove to be the final issue in a 23-month conflict between the ILWU and the Pacific Northwest Grain Handlers Association (PNGHA), whose members include United Grain, Columbia Grain and Louis Dreyfus. The union and PNGHA finally reached a tentative labor agreement near midnight Aug. 11. ILWU members must still ratify the contract, with voting results expected as soon as Aug. 25. With the tentative agreement in place, WSDA grain inspectors returned to the United Grain facility to provide official inspection services and resume normal grain export loading operations. 

U.S. federal law requires that FGIS or a delegated state agency inspect all grain for export. This has been a major benefit of the U.S. wheat export system. Having a neutral third party certify that contract specifications are met is a critical component of U.S. wheat quality and value. However, the unusual circumstances at the Port of Vancouver demonstrates a need to remain vigilant and ensure official mandated services are followed to provide for the free flow of grain.

Thankfully, the dispute likely did not last long enough to cause severe harm to farmers or the overseas customers who depend on them.

USW and the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) worked closely throughout this situation with other stakeholders to advocate the importance of official inspection services and exports for farmers and their customers. Both organizations will continue doing all they can to avoid similar disruptions into the future.



Plant twice as fast while maintaining accurate spacing with new SpeedTube™.

A new retro-fit seed delivery system from Precision Planting allows growers to plant corn and soybeans twice as fast as is possible with traditional seed tubes.

Jason Stoller, Product Manager for the new SpeedTube™ says, “Farmers are always looking for the optimum planting window in order to maximize yield. We realize the window is narrow and speed is a limiting factor. Traditional seed tubes limit planter speeds due to poor spacing.”

Stoller explains that SpeedTube solves these problems by controlling the seed, regardless of seed shape and size, all the way from the meter disk to the furrow. Feeder wheels at the top grab the seed from the disk and deposit it into a flighted belt that carries it to the bottom of the trench.   The SpeedTube belt spins at a rate that increases and decreases with planter speed, ensuring that the seed doesn’t roll when it lands in the furrow.

“Planting with SpeedTube redefines planting accuracy in a revolutionary way.  It increases yield and productivity by allowing you to take control of seed spacing at today’s planting speeds and removes the barrier to high planting speeds when you need to,” says Stoller.

Precision Planting will be demonstrating SpeedTube at the Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa, August 26-28. The product will be available for the Spring of 2015 on select John Deere and Kinze planters.



Precision Planting launches vSet™ Select, row-by-row multi-hybrid planting system.
Traditionally, growers have sought to maximize yield by planting the hybrid that will perform the best, on average, across a  whole field, despite zone differences within that field. With Precision Planting’s new vSet Select system, they’ll be able to plant two hybrids in the same row, switching back and forth as zones change, to plant the hybrid that will produce more in each environment.

According to Dale Koch, vSet Select Product Manager, “The vSet Select system means that you don’t have to compromise. You can plant the right hybrid for changing yield environments in your fields. That translates to optimal  yields.”

Koch explains that two opposing vSet™ meters are set on each row unit above a single seed tube. The vDrive™ electric drive system instantaneously switches from one hybrid to the other – and changes populations, when appropriate. The system uses prescription files that are loaded into the 20/20 SeedSense, or operators can manually switch from one hybrid to another.

The best part of this system is that the multi-hybrid planter of the future is in your shed today! vSet Select is a retrofit option that allows you to use your existing bulk fill system to carry two different hybrids to plant throughout the field.

“vSet Select has already maximized yields over many thousands of acres,” says Koch, “proving itself profitable and effective.

vSet Select can be seen in action at the Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa, August 26-28. vSet Select will be available on select John Deere and Kinze planters for Spring 2015.