Monday September 15 Ag News

NDA DIRECTOR IBACH NOTES ANTICIPATED LARGE CROP AS FALL HARVEST BEGINS

Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) Director Greg Ibach is calling attention to recent estimates for a large harvest and encouraging producers and agribusinesses to exercise care as they begin what is generally the busiest time of the year for agriculture.

“We anticipate having a record high soybean harvest this year, as well as one of the best average yields for corn, according to the USDA forecast," Ibach said. "As farmers and agriculture businesses gear up, I urge folks to keep safety at the forefront and try to plan ahead as much as possible to relieve some stress as this busy season gets even busier."

Ibach said favorable rains through much of the season have helped boost yield outlook. Late season moisture allowed producers in some areas to end irrigation early, but also could play into the necessity for producers to utilize more propane to assist them in drying their crops down to the proper moisture content levels.  The fall and winter of 2013 saw a sharp price increase in propane as that industry worked on delivery and infrastructure issues. Ibach is hopeful the coming fall and winter won't hold similar problems.

"The leadership of the Nebraska Energy Office and I continue to stay in contact concerning the availability and costs of propane for our crop and livestock producers and our coops," Ibach said. "From current reports, I am hopeful that Nebraska is in a better position in terms of propane availability than we were last season. However, folks should make sure they are planning ahead.”

Ibach also has made it a point to reach out to representatives of both of Nebraska’s main railroads regarding concerns about grain movement. The Upper Plains states have had particular difficulty with rail access, as far back as last harvest season. A variety of issues have contributed to problems with train car and locomotive availability and price increases, Ibach said, although indications are that Nebraska is not facing as big of an issue as the Dakotas.

"Officials from both Union Pacific and BNSF Railway told me they have taken steps they believe will ease concerns in Nebraska," Ibach said. "We pledged during our conversations to stay in touch as the harvest season gears up."



Ensuring Accurate Yield Monitor Data at Harvest
Joe Luck, UNL Extension Precision Agricultural Engineer

We're quickly approaching harvest time and for those collecting yield monitor data, it's a good time to review practices for collecting quality data. If you're just getting started with yield monitors, recognize that developing good habits and maintaining those habits over the years will ensure that you've got good data for comparisons. We've put together a short publication on methods for improving data quality in Best Management Practices for Collecting Accurate Yield Data and Avoiding Errors during Harvest (EC 2004). This basic overview covers how to minimize errors during harvest operations.

A primary example is yield monitor calibration. Remember that a separate calibration needs to be conducted for each crop you harvest (corn, soybeans, and wheat, for example). If you're harvesting high moisture corn at the beginning of the season, create a calibration in the yield monitor for this situation. If you return to corn harvest later in the season after the crop has dried down, conduct a new calibration for the corn at lower moisture. This will help to improve your yield estimates.

Creating a calibration (high moisture corn, for instance) by harvesting small loads, weighing them, then entering that information into the in-cab display can take a bit of time. Many systems will allow you to collect four to six loads per calibration to represent the yield variation during harvest operations. Two methods are available to capture this variation: harvesting at a full header width and varying speed, or harvesting at a constant speed while varying the header cut width. Either option will achieve the same goal if performed properly, essentially varying the grain flow through the clean grain elevator. Double check the manufacturer recommendations on how to perform the calibration.

Operators also should ensure that the header position sensor is functioning properly. When the header is lowered into the harvest position, the in-cab display should show that data logging is occuring. Once the header is raised above a set position, the yield data point logging should stop. If this doesn't occur (or the header isn't raised high enough during turning in headlands), yield data points will be collected with little or no yield.  If these points are not removed from the yield data, yield estimates in the final yield map may be much lower than what was actually seen in the field.

Errors in yield data are unavoidable; however, proper operation of the system during harvest can help to minimize those errors. In many cases, post-processing yield data files can help to remove errors and greatly improve overall map quality. If you need help with your current yield monitoring system or are trying to collect harvest data for the first time and need assistance, please feel free to email me at jluck2@unl.edu or call 402-472-1488.



NE Corn Growers to Travel to KC for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Race - October 5

The Nebraska Corn Board, Nebraska Corn Growers Association and Nebraska’s 23,000 corn farmers invite you to attend the Sunday, October 5 NASCAR race at Kansas Speedway.

The cost is $100 per person and includes transportation to and from the race, the ticket for the race, and morning and evening meals, ticket into the hospitality tent where there will be food and beverages before the race and a gift certificate for Fan Vision – a device that allows you to watch the race on a small monitor and listen to the announcers or the conversation between the driver and his crew.

Seating is limited to the first 100 paid participants. Your seat on the bus and race ticket are reserved with your payment.  No payments will be accepted the day of the race.  See payment information below.

The race begins at 1:00 pm. We will leave Lincoln at approximately 6:00 am and return about 7:30 pm the same day.

The first 100 paid participants will get this package deal. 

Payment Information
Make checks payable to: “Nebraska Corn Growers Association”.  Be sure to include your name, mailing address, email and phone number.

Send payment to:
Kim Clark
PO Box 95107
Lincoln, NE 68509

For More Information
Call Kim Clark at: 402-471-2676 or email... kim.clark@nebraska.gov. 

American Ethanol began a partnership with NASCAR starting with this racing season and the Nebraska Corn Board is a contributor to American Ethanol.  In the Nationwide Series, Sprint Cup Series, and Camping Truck Series, drivers will be running their race car on American Ethanol.  This partnership was formed to promote ethanol, educate consumers about agriculture, and more.



Homegrown, Renewable Fuels provide Energy Independence

Biodiesel and ethanol, two energy sources made from soybeans and corn, respectively, are homegrown and locally produced. For Renewable Fuels Month in September, Nebraska farmers celebrate these homegrown crops and their abundant number of renewable uses.

In Nebraska last year, farmers raised 252 million bushels of soybeans and 1.6 billion bushels of corn. And that number is growing. From these two crops, fuel sources, livestock feed and thousands of food products are created – right here in Nebraska, as well as across the U.S.

Homegrown, renewable fuels contribute to our energy independence and security.  Over 1,500 are employed in rural Nebraska because of renewable fuels. Nationwide, more than 850,000 jobs are supported by renewable fuels, according to an economic impact study by John Dunham & Associates recently released by the Fuels America coalition.

The Dunham & Associates report tells the story of an innovative, advanced renewable fuels and biofuels industry that is producing growing benefits for America’s economy. Part of the effort in contributing towards an expanded biofuels industry is the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). “The data is in: The RFS is driving billions of dollars of economic activity across America,” the report concludes. “This is the result of years of investment by the biofuel sector to bring clean, low carbon renewable fuels to market.”

Renewable fuels represent nearly 10% of America’s fuel supply and have helped reduce U.S. reliance on foreign oil to the lowest level in years.

In 2007, the RFS program was expanded to include biodiesel, increased the amount of fuel required to be blended into transportation fuel to 36 billion gallons in 2022, created new categories of renewable fuels including advanced, cellulosic, and conventional and evaluated the lifecycle of greenhouse gases to ensure each category was meeting a minimum threshold.

The RFS is doing exactly what it was intended to do.  “In 2013, we reduced our imported crude oil by 462 million barrels and 1.1 billion gallons of imported petroleum diesel,” said David Merrell, corn farmer and District 7 director for the Nebraska Corn Board. “Each year we are producing more renewable fuels in the United States. They are supporting the local farmer and provide as much as $3 million in tax revenue for Nebraska.”

The RFS is reducing our dependency on imported oil, providing a homegrown, locally produced renewable fuel, creating jobs, providing tax revenue, and more.  Renewable fuels are a win-win situation for the farmers, rural communities, and consumers.

Merrell added, “With the diversity of products we can make from these two crops, Nebraska consumers should feel great about using renewable products, like ethanol and biodiesel that come from a homegrown crop grown each year across the state.”



NE, IA Producers Lend Expertise to Meat Trade Seminar in Japan

Producers from the U.S. beef, pork, corn and soybean industries traveled to Japan this week for meetings with key players in the Japanese meat trade. Two members of the delegation -- Dean Black of the Iowa Beef Industry Council and Wayne Humphries of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board -- gave presentations on U.S. farming practices at a USMEF seminar in Tokyo, which was attended by more than 600 meat buyers from across all sectors of the Japanese food industry. Black and Humphries explained the history and development of their family farm operations, sharing their deep passion for agriculture and commitment to producing safe and wholesome food. Dr. Robert Thaler, professor and extension specialist with the South Dakota State University Department of Animal Science, also offered details on feed formulations used by the U.S. pork and beef industries.

"Customers in Japan and across the world want to know the details of how U.S. meat is produced," said USMEF President and CEO Philip Seng. "So this seminar focused on soil sustainability, the seed used to produce feedgrains, and the specific feeding formulations and processes that allow the U.S. industry to produce such high-quality meat."

Seng noted that in addition to the expertise this diverse group of producers contributed to the seminar, their presence also reminded buyers of the family-centered nature of the U.S. industry and conveyed a personal commitment to producing high-quality meat products in a responsible manner.

"The personal experience of the individual U.S. producer is a very positive selling point for our meat products," he said. "USMEF is proud to extol their commitment to quality and safety, their commitment to the land -- and ultimately their commitment to the customer. These genuine qualities definitely come across in our meetings with buyers, allowing the U.S. industry to establish a very high level of trust."

Opening remarks at the seminar were made by Seng and David Miller, minister-counselor for agricultural affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. USMEF Economist Erin Borror presented a beef and pork market overview and Joel Haggard, senior vice president for the Asia Pacific, addressed China's emerging influence on Asian meat markets. A presentation on USMEF's current beef promotions in Japan was provided by USMEF-Tokyo Senior Marketing Director Takemichi Yamashoji, while USMEF pork promotions were summarized by Marketing Manager Satoshi Kato.

Following the seminar, buyers were welcomed to an evening tasting session by USMEF Secretary-Treasurer Bruce Schmoll, a soybean and corn producer from Claremont, Minn., and Steve Hanson of the Nebraska Beef Council.

Hanson, who owns a cow-calf operation, feedlot and corn and wheat farm near Elsie, Nebraska, offered his thoughts on the event and the future prospects for U.S. meat in Japan.

"The seminar was extremely well-conducted by USMEF, and our entire experience in Japan was very informative," he said. "It was especially interesting to see the variety of uses for U.S. meat and the different ways it is prepared in Japan. Consumers there are definitely interested in high-end, high-quality meats, and U.S. products are very well-received. For our industry, the future looks extremely bright in Japan."

Special guests at the tasting session included Ambassador Darci Vetter, chief agricultural negotiator with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and staff members from the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo.

Other members of the producer delegation visiting Japan were: Scott McGregor, Iowa Soybean Association; Patrick Fitzsimmons, Minnesota Pork Board; David Bruntz, Nebraska Corn Board and Russell Vering, Nebraska Pork Producers Association.

Funding for the seminar was provided by the USDA Market Access Program (MAP) and state corn checkoff programs.



Guidelines for Alfalfa Harvest During Winterization
Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension Forage Specialist

Many alfalfa growers may be looking at good growth they'd like to harvest before winter without affecting the plant's natural winterization process and survival.

During early fall, alfalfa plants detect that the amount of sunlight each day is getting less. This tells them that winter is coming so they change their growth process and start winterization. Alfalfa cut during this winterizing period will begin to regrow. This reduces its ability to winterize as fully as it would if it hadn't been cut.

From experience we know alfalfa cut in late September or early October can survive given the right conditions, although spring growth may be a little slower. Following are some guidelines to help increase the chance your cut alfalfa survives and grows well next spring.

First and foremost, make sure your alfalfa grows well for a long time in late summer so it can build its root nutrient reserves.  Allow at least six weeks between your previous cutting and the cut that occurs during winterization. This is especially critical if the field gets cut five or more times this year.

Second, thoughtfully select fields to be cut during winterization. Avoid old, thinning fields unless you plan to rotate that field to a different crop next year. Young, healthy alfalfa fields containing varieties with good winter survival ratings are most likely to perform well even after cutting during winterization.
             
Lastly, consider waiting to cut until mid-October, after winterization is over or plants are nearly dormant. The stress of regrowth following this extra late cutting usually is very small.

Valuable alfalfa often is available to cut this time of year.  Careful harvest will help assure it also is there next year.



Nebraska FFA Foundation Tire Auction Totals Nearly $40,000
(from NE FFA Foundation)

Rainy, muddy conditions didn't stop Nebraska FFA supporters from attending the second annual Nebraska FFA Foundation Tire Auction, hosted by Titan Tire, Goodyear Farm Tires and Graham Tire.

The event, originally planned for Wednesday, September 10th, was postponed to Thursday due to the heavy rain and mud at the show site. The tires brought in $39,500 for Nebraska FFA Foundation to support statewide FFA and Ag Ed programming.

Titan Tire donated 90 tires, ranging from skid steer to backhoe tires and implement and tractor tires to the Nebraska FFA Foundation. The auction was held at the Graham Tire exhibit area during Husker Harvest Days.

Due Respect to Nebraska’s Agricultural Businesses and Industries
This past week, the Nebraska FFA State Officer Team has been traveling around the state visiting with various business and industry leaders who contribute to the Nebraska FFA Association and the National FFA Organization. From the “I Believe in the Future of Ag” Campaign to True Blue and State Convention sponsorships, these are companies and individuals who have been influencing FFA students across our state in many ways.

One example of this past week’s visits is Valmont Industries, Inc., located in Valley, Nebraska. During our time at Valmont, we discussed the development and progress of the company, as well as the diversity and global market of their products. Later, we experienced a tour, highlighting the many areas of the Valley production plant. We were impressed by the agricultural production and manufacturing that is happening right here in the Midwest.

Seeing the leadership and dedication of many of these agricultural leaders has been truly influential. These hard working Nebraskans have strived to make the agricultural industry succeed. Spending some time, thanking them for their service to Nebraska FFA, as well as agriculture itself, is the least we can do as young agriculturalists. Nonetheless, the networking with business professionals has also provided value to our visits, as well look to careers down the road. We are the future of the industry, and these supporters have truly dedicated their time to preparing Nebraska’s youth for our upcoming responsibilities in the agriculture industry. Overall, it has been a compelling experience as we look deeper into the companies that drive Nebraska’s #1 industry... Agriculture!



Bancroft-Rosalie Community School implements Discovery Education Science curriculum

Bancroft-Rosalie Community School has received a $10,000 grant from America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education, sponsored by the Monsanto Fund. The district will use the money to implement the Discovery Education Science curriculum for all of the students at Bancroft-Rosalie Elementary School.

The grant will be used to purchase 20 iPads, increasing the total number available to teachers and students to 60. With the remaining funds, the school will also purchase digital textbooks that provide high quality content, and encourage students to read, write and think critically. The digital textbooks have been shown to be effective at improving student engagement in elementary schools and helping educators create learning environments that build the skills students need for college, careers, and citizenship.

“The Discovery Education program uses digital resources to help students learn about science,” said Superintendent Jon Cerny. “Students will read short passages, watch video clips and perform simple laboratory activities to get them interested and excited about science. We want our students to develop a love for learning. I appreciate all of the farmers that voiced support for our project.”

This past spring, local farmers nominated the district for a chance to apply for the grant. School administrators then designed a science-based project for the grant application. Once all of the school district applications were submitted, a panel of math and science teachers reviewed each application and selected finalists.  An advisory council, composed of farmer-leaders with an interest in agriculture and education, then selected the winning grant applications from a pool of finalists.

“Agriculture has become one of the most technologically advanced industries, so farmers are very aware of the need for superior math and science education, particularly in their own communities,” said Monsanto Customer Advocacy Lead Linda Arnold. “We are proud to partner with farmers to support the things that are most important to them—schools, youth, and their community.”

Bancroft-Rosalie Community School celebrated receiving the grant on Tuesday, September 9, in between volleyball games. Nominating farmers, school representatives and local Monsanto representative Grant Settje attended the event.

Grow Rural Education encourages farmers to nominate a local public school district, which can then compete for a grant of up to $25,000. Since 2011, Grow Rural Education has invested more than $7 million to support math and science education in rural school districts across the country.

This program is part of the America’s Farmers initiative, which partners with farmers to support education, service organizations and youth in rural America. Visit GrowRuralEducation.com to see the full list of winners for this year. A sister program, America’s Farmers Grow Communities is currently in its enrollment period. To sign up, visit GrowCommunities.com.



Johanns, Thune Introduce Bill to Stop EPA from Bypassing Courts to Garnish Americans’ Wages

U.S. Sens. Mike Johanns (R- Neb) and John Thune (R-S.D.) today introduced legislation to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from garnishing Americans’ wages without a court order. Johanns wrote EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy earlier this year to stop EPA from gaining this authority without public input.

Johanns said, “Federal overreach has been a theme of this Administration and keeping agencies accountable is a constant, ongoing process. With the avalanche of new regulations being issued, I find it troubling EPA is now seeking authority to garnish wages without a court order. The agency should have no problem getting a judge’s blessing to collect a fine if there is a bona fide reason to issue that fine. It’s just common sense.”

Thune said, “The recent attempt by the EPA to confiscate the wages of Americans without a court order is especially concerning in light of the ambiguous regulations it’s currently proposing, such as the ‘Waters of the U.S.,’ which would expose farmers and ranchers to excessive fines over the management of ditches, stock ponds, and streams. The EPA’s direct final rule on wage garnishment rightfully received opposition from the American public and Congress, and our bill will provide an important long-term check on the EPA’s aggressive agenda.”

Sens. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Mike Enzi (R-Wyo.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Pat Roberts (R-Kan.) are original cosponsors of the Johanns-Thune bill.

McConnell said, “Given the onslaught of EPA regulations and resulting excessive fines by the Obama Administration, particularly on Kentucky farmers and landowners, we must halt any future attempt by the EPA to garnish wages without a court order from those impacted.  I am proud to cosponsor this legislation which would put a check on the current EPA’s ongoing ‘overregulate and then fine’ mentality and scheme.”

The Johanns-Thune legislation specifically states EPA must receive a court order before taking any wage garnishment actions established by the 1996 Debt Collection Improvement Act (DCIA). The 1996 law gave federal agencies the authority to garnish up to 15 percent of a worker’s wages to pay debts owed to the federal government. Given the aggressive regulatory regime of this Administration’s EPA, particularly as it applies to rural America and agriculture, a court order is necessary to prevent overreach.



Domina is the Best Choice for Agriculture says Nebraska Farmers Union PAC

NEBFARMPAC, the political action committee of the Nebraska Farmers Union, Nebraska’s second largest general farm organization with over 6,000 farm and ranch families announced its unanimous and enthusiastic endorsement of David Domina for U.S. Senate in the General Election.

The NEBFARMPAC Board of Directors issued the following statement:

“David Domina was born and raised on a farm in Cedar County.  He is a veteran.  He has an extensive career representing the interests of farmers and ranchers during his many years of law practice.  His farm background, farm banking experience, military service, expertise in ethanol and wind energy, and knowledge of and expertise in agricultural markets makes him the clear choice to best represent the interests of the state’s largest single industry and the state of Nebraska.”

“Nebraska agriculture needs a candidate who has the experience, knowledge, skill, expertise, and passion to champion the interests of agriculture, renewable energy, ethanol, and the quality of life issues for rural Nebraska.  We believe Dave Domina has the skill, experience, and passion we need in the U.S. Senate.”

“Nebraskans want our elected officials to do their job.  Congress has become dysfunctional as the direct result of the ability of ideologically extreme special interest groups to recruit and fund candidates that agree with their agenda to attack and destroy all farm programs and all renewable energy incentives.  That ideologically extreme agenda is not in the economic interests of Nebraska, the 4th largest agricultural producing states in the country that is ranked second in ethanol production, and has the third most potential wind energy resources in the nation.  Dave Domina is not funded or supported by those groups.”

“David Domina presents Nebraska voters with the rare opportunity to send a politically moderate and independent candidate to the U.S. Senate to represent our state’s primary economic interests with an extensive background and expertise in the agricultural issues and sectors that impact family farm agriculture, our state’s largest single industry.”

David Domina is a strong proponent of ethanol and wind energy incentives.  David Domina is the only United States Senatorial candidate to have cared enough about the issue to take a firm position in support of ethanol by summiting his own personally drafted comments to the EPA in defense of the RFS (Renewable Fuels Standard).

“We know that Nebraska agriculture will be well served by sending David Domina to the Senate.  His expertise in renewable energy, ethanol, agricultural markets, and private property rights will serve our state well in the United States Senate,” said NEBFARMPAC President Gale Lush of Wilcox.

John Hansen, NEBFARMPAC Secretary said “Our Board of Directors recognizes the rare opportunity to send someone with David Domina’s rare set of problem solving skills, integrity, and common sense to Washington, D.C. to represent us.  His background and unique approach to solving complicated issues, and his communication skills are just what is needed these days in the United States Senate,” said Hansen.

NEBFARMPAC Announces 2014 General Election Endorsements
The Nebraska Farmers Union’s Political Action Committee, NEBFARMPAC, announced its endorsements for the 2014 General Election.

The NEBFARMPAC Board endorsed candidates for Congressional Offices, State Offices, Legislature, Community Colleges, University of Nebraska Regent, State Board of Education, Natural Resource Districts, and Public Power Districts. 

Thirteen of the NEBFARMPAC endorsed candidates for the General election are members of Nebraska Farmers Union.  “We encourage our members to be good citizens to get informed on the issues, get constructively engaged in the public policy process, and to consider running for public office themselves,” said John Hansen, NEBFARMPAC Secretary.   “We need candidates who work well with others to solve problems and make our government work as it should.”

Congressional Offices
U.S. Senate:  Dave Domina (D)
First Congressional District:  Jeff Fortenberry (R)
Second Congressional District:  Brad Ashford (D)
Third Congressional District:  Mark Sullivan (D)

State Offices
Governor:  Chuck Hassebrook (D)
Nebraska Attorney General:  Doug Peterson (R)
Auditor of Public Accounts:  Amanda McGill (D)
Nebraska Treasurer:  Don Stenberg (R)
Public Service Commission:  Crystal Rhoades  (D)

Members of the Legislature:
District 2: Ron Nolte                                        District 3:  Carol Blood
District 4:  Robert Hilkemann                       District 6:  Stacy Ryan
District 8:  Burke Harr                                      District 10:  Bob Krist
District 12:  Greg Hosche                               District 16:  Lydia Brasch
District 18:  Michael Tesar                             District 20:  Matt Lathrop
District 22:  Paul Schumacher                      District 26:  Matt Hansen
District 28:  Patty Pansing Brooks               District 32: Phil Hardenburger
District 34:  Curt Friesen                                District 36:  Matt Williams
District 38:  John Kuehn                                 District 42:  Roric Paulman
District 44:  Dan Hughes                                 District 46: Adam Morfield                         

State Board of Education:
District 5:  Patricia Timm                                District 6:  Maureen Nickels
District 7:  Molly O’Halleran                          District 8:  Bob Meyers

Board of Regents University of Nebraska:  District 5:  Steve Glenn

Metropolitan Community College:
District 1: Judy Domina                                  District 2: David Newell
District 3:  Jim Monahan                                At Large:  Ron Hug

Northeast Community College: District 4: Donald Frank
Nebraska Public Power District:  Subdivision 1: Mary Harding     Subdivision 7: Ken Kunze              Subdivision 9: Danny Kluthe
Omaha Public Power District:  Subdivision 2:   Anne McGuire      Subdivision 3: Tim Gay
Norris Public Power District: Subdistrict 7: Vern Jantzen
Stanton County Public Power District:  Donald Frank
Central Platte Natural Resources District:  Subdistrict 7: Ed Stoltenberg
Lower Platte South Natural Resources District:  Subdistrict 8:  Tom Green
Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District:  Subdistrict 6: Donald Frank
Upper Elkhorn Natural Resources District:  Subdistrict 7: Keith Heithoff

Gale Lush of Wilcox, NEBFARMPAC President said “As the price of corn and soybeans continue to plummet to below the costs of production, it is increasingly important we support the candidates that understand the challenges that agriculture faces.  Over a third of the Legislature will be new because of the impact of term limits.   Our NEBFARMPAC Board of Directors felt it necessary for us to weigh in on the races where there were clear pro-family farm and ranch candidates.  We thank all the candidates that have filed for election.  Filing for office takes both courage and commitment to public service.” 



GARBACZ RECEIVES NATIONAL AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO AGRICULTURE

Stan Garbacz, the Agricultural Trade Representative for the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA), has been awarded the James A. Graham Award for Outstanding Service to Agriculture.  The award was presented to Garbacz late last week during the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) annual meeting in Vermont.

“All 50 states have the opportunity to nominate a candidate for this annual award, so the James A. Graham Award is quite an honor," said NDA Director Greg Ibach.

Garbacz has developed trusted relationships on behalf of Nebraska farmers and ranchers worldwide, including China, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Japan, Germany, United Kingdom, Argentina, Mexico and many others. Ibach said Garbacz's work in these markets has benefited Nebraska’s agricultural economy and resulted in the attraction of additional business to the state.

“Stan has been instrumental in the expansion of existing agricultural markets and the development of new markets. His efforts through the years have literally meant the movement of millions of dollars of Nebraska agricultural goods into domestic and foreign markets, on behalf of Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers," Ibach said. "He is well-deserving of this award."

Garbacz began his career at NDA in 1979 as a Budget, Finance and Personnel Officer; in 1987 he became the Administrator of the Ag Promotion and Development Division, until 2006 when he became NDA’s Agricultural Trade Representative.

NASDA represents state departments of agriculture on policies and programs to promote the American agriculture industry, while protecting consumers and the environment.  Nebraska is a member of the organization.



IA Producers May Visit a Variety of Manure Management Systems during Field Days

Managing manure nutrients is a high priority for livestock farmers for economic and environmental reasons. Iowa dairy and beef producers are invited to attend Iowa State University Extension and Outreach field days featuring a variety of manure management systems. The field days will be held in northwest and northeast Iowa during October.

“Manure is beginning to be recognized as a valuable asset rather than a waste product in the livestock operation,” said Beth Doran, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach beef program specialist. “How the manure is handled and stored can affect the financial return to the farming enterprise. The various ways dairy and beef producers handle manure will be the focus of the field days.”

Field day discussions will focus on nutrient management including various options and methods to manage total farm nutrient balance, manure management and nutrient runoff.
Northwest Iowa manure management field days

Oct. 1
10 a.m. start, Multi-Rose Jerseys, Rock Rapids. Multi-Rose has a unique process to recycle solids from the free stall barn as bedding for the cows.  At 11:30 a.m., the field day moves to the Jim Koedam farm, near Doon. Koedam uses a low-cost pumping system to apply feedlot liquids to nearby corn fields. The field day concludes with lunch and a tour of the Terry Van Maanen Dairy operation north of Rock Valley where participants may view a sand settling lane, three manure structures and how runoff from silage piles is prevented.

Oct. 2
1 p.m. start, Chad and Dale Fertig Dairy, south of Wall Lake. This dairy operation has a drive-in sand settling pit and a newer heifer barn with manure storage.

To register for northwest Iowa field days, contact Kris Kohl, ISU Extension and Outreach Ag engineer, at 712-335-3013 or Beth Doran, ISU Extension and Outreach beef program specialist at 712-737-4230, by Sept. 29.  A registration fee of $5 per person will be collected at the Oct. 1 field day to help cover the cost of lunch.  Directions to the farms and a complete listing of field days are included in the program flier available at www.extension.iastate.edu/dairyteam.

Both northwest Iowa field days are sponsored by ISU Extension and Outreach, Western Iowa Dairy Alliance and the North Central Risk Management Education Center. Special thanks is extended to WIDA for sponsoring milk and ice cream at the field days.



Soybean Growers from 11 States Tapped to Lead ASA WISHH

American Soybean Association (ASA) President Ray Gaesser has confirmed the election of 16 soybean growers from 11 states to ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) Committee in 2014-2015. New officers are: Chairman Andy Welden of Michigan; Vice Chair Lucas Heinen of Kansas; Treasurer Monica McCranie of South Dakota; and Secretary Dean Coleman of Iowa.

Other WISHH Committee Members include: Gary Berg, Daryl Cates and Jeff Lynn of Illinois; Ron Bunjer of Minnesota; Ryan Cahoon of North Carolina; Bret Davis and Keith Roberts of Ohio; John Heisdorffer of Iowa; Levi Huffman of Indiana; Jack Trumbo of Kentucky; Art Wosick and Rick Albrecht (alternate) of North Dakota. U.S. Soybean Export Committee Manager Marypat Corbett is an ex officio member. Gaesser also recognized David Iverson of South Dakota and Dan Farney of Illinois who completed their terms on the WISHH committee.

“We thank these visionary soybean growers who lead WISHH to trail blaze new global markets for U.S. soy protein,” said Gaesser. “Russia’s recent import sanctions are yet another reminder that U.S. farmers need a diverse customer base. WISHH has succeeded in cultivating U.S. soy trade in Africa, Central America and other developing countries where the economies are growing faster than the developed world.”

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and other economic analysis, developing countries will dominate the growth in world demand for agricultural products. USDA projects developing countries' demand for agricultural products will increase faster than their production. As a result, these countries will account for 92 percent of the total increase in world oilseed and meat imports in 2013-2022.

“WISHH is developing markets for U.S. soy. At the same time, WISHH creates economic opportunities in developing countries as they strengthen their agricultural and food supply chains,” said Welden who farms in Jonesville. “Developing country businesses are expanding by putting U.S. soy inside breads, beverages, meats and more for humans as well as livestock and aquaculture feeds. As a result, WISHH’s supply chain partners are able to help fill the protein gap that exists in many developing country populations’ diets.”

WISHH built links between U.S. soy exporters and importers in seven African countries—a list that is growing—thanks to U.S. Department of Agriculture and state soybean checkoff support. In 2014, exports of U.S. isolated soy protein, soy flour and textured soy protein has exceeded $1 million to countries such as Burkina Faso, Kenya, Nigeria and Senegal. One such market, Uganda, has imported over $200,000 of value-added soy protein in the past three years.

In addition to human food, WISHH farmer leaders have directed the program to develop connections with the feed and livestock sectors in targeted countries. With funding from USDA’s Emerging Markets Program (EMP), WISHH has developed a strategy to promote trade in U.S. soy to the feed, poultry and aquaculture sectors in Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal. Another USDA-funded WISHH project introduced high-protein soy fish feeds in Pakistan. WISHH achieved and or exceeded 100% of the objectives established for its soybean value-chain project in Afghanistan. Despite working in a very challenging security environment, the Soybeans for Agricultural Renewal in Afghanistan Initiative (SARAI) is creating commercial sources of soy for human food as well as livestock feed.

“Through WISHH, U.S. soybean growers can look forward to more food and feed successes that are a win for developing countries too,” Welden says.

WISHH is a trade-development organization. Since U.S. soybean farmers founded WISHH in 2000, it has worked in 24 countries to develop long-term markets for U.S. soybean farmers while fueling economic growth and value chain development. The WISHH program is managed from ASA’s world headquarters in St. Louis.



Second annual U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange This Week in Milwaukee

“Brew City” recently became “Soy City” as more than 270 representatives of major international companies interested in importing U.S. soy came together for the second annual U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange in Milwaukee. Areas represented included China, the Middle East, Vietnam and many others.

“Every other row of U.S. soybeans is exported, so it is imperative to build and retain strong relationships with our international customers,” says Jim Call, soybean farmer from Minnesota and United Soybean Board (USB) chairman. “The Global Trade Exchange gives U.S. soybean farmers a great opportunity to meet face to face with these valuable customers and prospective buyers as they commit to buying millions of bushels of our soybeans.”

International representatives committed to buy $2.8 billion worth of U.S. soy during last year’s U.S. Soy Global Trade Exchange in Davenport, Iowa.

In the most recent marketing year, U.S. soybean farmers exported more than 1.7 billion bushels of U.S. soy to customer beyond our borders. The value of these exports set a record of more than $28 billion.

The event, which is co-sponsored by USB, the American Soybean Association (ASA), the checkoff-funded U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and the Midwest Shippers Association, continues through Thursday, Sept. 18. Besides meeting with U.S. soy farmer-leaders, attendees will also attend a variety of presentations to learn about the sustainability and quality of U.S. soybeans.

“This event offers a taste of American ag that they don’t get every day,” Call says. “This experience should give them a better understanding of the pride we take in our farms and product and how U.S. soybeans will benefit them for the long haul. Choosing U.S. soy is a win-win situation for all of us.”



AMERICAN ASSN OF BOVINE PRACTITIONERS ISSUE CATTLE WELFARE GUIDELINES

The American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) has created Castration and Dehorning Guidelines for general guidelines for the castration and dehorning of beef and dairy cattle (http://aabp.org/about/AABP_Guidelines.asp). These guidelines are meant to assist veterinarians and their clients enhance the welfare of cattle on beef and dairy farms by providing information on how best to approach dehorning and castration of calves.

"These new guidelines for castration and dehorning represent our combined view on the best approach to be taken for performing these procedures, melding science where it exists with sound judgment and commonsense where science is less clear, accepting that the veterinarian of record for the farm is likely the best person to ultimately determine the most appropriate combination of procedures," says AABP Past President Dr. Nigel Cook, University of Wisconsin. "They will be updated regularly as new science emerges so that our recommendations represent the best possible approaches available."

The guidelines discuss age at castration and dehorning, proper chemical or manual restraint, different methods used to castrate and dehorn, and anesthesia and pain relief.

"These new guidelines accept that these are painful procedures where pain mitigation is a priority," Cook explains. "They provide the most up-to-date recommendations for the use of different procedures for castration and dehorning, the use of local anesthesia and the use of long-acting pain relieving pharmaceuticals."

Cook stresses, however, that these are guidelines only, not legislation. "They allow the veterinarian to work with them with their clients in deciding the most appropriate procedures for a given farm situation," he says. "It is the veterinary profession that should take the lead in providing the most appropriate practices for the circumstances that exist on any given farm."

Use of anesthetics or pain mitigation may include extra-label drug use as provided for in the Animal Medicinal Drug Use Clarification Act, and their use should be based on the judgment of the farm's veterinarian of record with a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR). See AABP's VCPR Guidelines and the Castration and Dehorning Guidelines at http://aabp.org/about/AABP_Guidelines.asp.



New Toolkit Helps Grocery Retailers Promote Their Most Profitable Protein

The beef checkoff is offering a new toolkit to help supermarket retailers and their on-staff registered dietitians make their store a health and wellness destination for consumers. The “Go Tasty, Go Lean” toolkit contains turnkey materials proven to drive beef sales and purchase intent.

This new resource is the result of a multi-phase research project the beef checkoff conducted with the assistance of supermarket registered dietitians, to evaluate the impact of highlighting fresh beef as part of in-store wellness efforts led by supermarket registered dietitians. The result was a significant sales lift for the beef cuts featured and strong purchase intent reported by shoppers.

“Because consumers rank supermarkets as one of their most-used sources of information on health and wellness, we wanted to bring a solution to retailers that empowers registered dietitians (RDs) and store staff to communicate beef’s nutrient benefits while also generating bottom-line benefits for their store,” says Clay Burtrum, a stocker and cow-calf operator from Stillwater, Okla., member of the Beef Promotion Operating Committee and chair of the checkoff’s nutrition & health subcommittee. “We found that promoting beef’s positive attributes to shoppers – nutrition, taste and ease of preparation – does result in higher sales and enables supermarket RDs to be able to talk knowledgeably and confidently about beef.”

The toolkit includes resources for in-store promotional efforts and educational materials on beef’s nutrition, all of which are proven to lift beef sales and improve beef perceptions. Though the toolkit was developed in partnership with registered dietitians, it can be used by any retail employee who communicates with shoppers.

Through Sept. 18, retailers and their on-staff registered dietitians can request free copies of the toolkit to promote Top Sirloin and lean Ground Beef to shoppers.

For more about retail programs, visit www.BeefRetail.com/RD or download this guide to getting started, and for more information about your beef checkoff investment, visit MyBeefCheckoff.com.

The Refreshing Face of Beef Research
Call it a facelift, a refresh or a redesign. Whatever its name, the checkoff-funded BeefResearch.org has a new look and improved functionality, including housing the Beef Issues Quarterly e-newsletter.

The updated site contains a library of research fact sheets, project summaries, executive summaries, etc., and features a user-friendly filter process to ease the visitor’s ability to find the right information. Now, the viewer can go to the program area of interest, then filter by topic, type and date. With hundreds of research items, this functionality makes for a much-improved website experience. An added feature for those on the move is accessibility from all mobile devices -- laptopos, tablets and smartphones. An added feature for those on the move is accessibility from all mobile devices – laptop, tablet and smartphones.

BeefResearch.org also now contains a photo library of raw cuts, accessible from the Product Quality landing page or through the resources menu.



Pump Prices Drop, Could Drop Further With More E15

With the end of the “summer gasoline” season and its Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) restrictions that handcuff retailers who want to offer E15 to their customers, ACE Senior Vice President Ron Lamberty is urging independent fuel station owners and their customers to consider the E15 fuel blend.

“We’re seeing reports and predictions of lower gas prices, with some celebrating the fact that the price is down to $3.39 nationwide.  In the Midwest, where E15, E30, and E85 are more widely available, even E10 prices are already under $3.00 in some markets. Ethanol adds octane and lowers prices because it provides competition for higher priced, lower octane gasoline,” said Lamberty.

“E15 brings environmental benefits as well. Recent studies highlight the reduction in cancer causing emissions offered by E15. E15 means cleaner, higher octane fuel at a lower price and fuel marketers are starting to realize that. Fuel retailers like CHS/Cenex and Protec have taken steps to make E15 available in more markets soon and others will follow,” Lamberty said.

Lamberty encourages retailers to take note of the growing number of vehicles that can use E15.  “E15 use is covered under warranty for most cars and light trucks sold in the U.S. for the 2013, 2014, and 2015 model years, and some automakers approve it for 2012 vehicles. That’s 30 million vehicles or more, and that number will grow every year.  EPA has approved E15 for use in all cars and light trucks from model years 2001 and newer, which is getting close to 200 million vehicles.”

“This is exactly why Big Oil fights so hard and spends so much time and money to convince EPA and elected officials that the 10% “blend wall” is real, and why they have contract restrictions that prevent branded stations from offering E15.  It’s not the 5% market share that could be taken by E15 that worries Big Oil – it’s what competition for that 5% does to the prices they can charge for the rest of the gallon. More ethanol means lower prices.” said Lamberty.



USCA Supports USDA Review of Beef Checkoff, Encourages Rewrite Under the 1996 Act

The United States Cattlemen's Association (USCA) board of directors voted to support the Secretary of Agriculture's stated intent to overhaul the Beef Checkoff program. Secretary Vilsack has related publicly his frustration with the lack of substantial progress being made by the Beef Checkoff Enhancement Working Group (BCEWG) and said he is considering using his own authority to make changes to the program.  The USCA board feels the same frustration and officially voted unanimously not to support the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) drafted by the BCEWG.

USCA, together with National Farmers Union (NFU), initiated the BCEWG in 2011 at the request of the Secretary to address governance issues with the Beef Checkoff.  The two groups originally requested the Secretary write a new Beef Checkoff Order under the 1996 Commodity Promotion Act.  The Secretary made it clear he would not step in until the two groups had exhausted all possibilities of getting the major beef industry groups to work through the divisive issues surrounding the Beef Checkoff.  The group consisted of the American Farm Bureau Federation, American National Cattlewomen, Cattlemen's Beef Board, Federation of State Beef Councils, Livestock Marketing Association, Meat Importers Council of America, National Cattlemen's Beef Association, National Livestock Producers Association, National Milk Producers Federation, NFU and USCA. 

Three years of meetings culminated in a memorandum of understanding.  The memorandum was designed to reflect the changes that the groups had found some degree of consensus on.  It was the intention of the group that they would not move forward and sign the memorandum until it was approved by the governing body of each group involved.  While all the groups have not made official decisions on the Memorandum, one of the guiding principles adhered to in the BCEWG is all the groups had to be on board to pursue any enhancement. 

USCA President Jon Wooster issued the following statement:

"Cattle producers deserve an enhanced Checkoff program now, not a decade from now.  The Secretary's remarks concerning the Checkoff signify the Administration's commitment to seeing this process through and enacting substantial reforms.  The Secretary's actions are needed and timely and USCA looks forward to engaging with USDA and members of our industry in rewriting a new Beef Checkoff Order in a manner that addresses the needs and interests of all US cattle producers.  USCA is hopeful  of achieving meaningful Checkoff reform and have been since we first initiated these discussions with National Farmers Union three years ago".

"USCA's member-driven policy calls for very specific reforms to the national mandatory beef Checkoff, including:  periodic, scheduled referendums; a complete separation of the Federation of State Beef Councils and any policy organizations; and no increase in the per head assessment until substantial, recommended enhancements are made."

"Clearly, the BCEWG's MOU does not meet key producer concerns and the board has acted accordingly.  USCA has whole-heartedly engaged in this process since the beginning, but believes the process has exhausted itself and we will now shift our focus to supporting Secretary Vilsack's stated intentions."

"U.S. cattle producers deserve and need the most effective Checkoff program possible and too much time and energy have already been spent in the working group without a solution being reached.  We encourage Secretary Vilsack to take immediate steps to implement the substantial reforms needed, which will protect the future of the Checkoff and allow it to grow and to work more efficiently in today's beef industry environment.  USCA eagerly awaits the Secretary's next steps and we stand ready to work with him and other stakeholders to reform the Checkoff in a positive, meaningful manner."



Merck Introduces New Pork Vaccine for PRRSv

Merck Animal Health announced the introduction of PRIME PAC PRRS+, a vaccine for reducing clinical signs of reproductive disease in female breeding-age swine and respiratory disease in pigs 3 to 4 weeks of age and older due to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus.

PRRS continues to be one of the most costly diseases affecting swine producers today. Combining productivity costs and other animal health-related expenses, losses due to PRRS in the U.S. breeding and growing-pig herd is estimated at $664 million annually.

"Due to the economic impact and high prevalence of PRRS in the U.S. swine herd, vaccination is crucial," says Karen Lehe, D.V.M., DACVPM, swine senior account manager, Merck Animal Health. "Vaccination stabilizes the herd's PRRS immunity and reduces the potential of virus circulation. It also offers producers an option that better meets the needs of their changing production practices - a labeled 2 mL dose for sows, as well as a 1 mL dose for pigs."

Results of several respiratory and reproductive challenge trials using both heterologous and homologous PRRSv strains demonstrated the safety and efficacy of Prime Pac PRRS+. Trial results also showed that vaccination significantly reduced viremia and the clinical signs of PRRSv, and provided four months duration of immunity; helping the herd remain as productive as possible.



Massey Ferguson and Woods Equipment Enter Into Agreement

Massey Ferguson®, a tractor brand of AGCO (NYSE:AGCO), and Woods®, an implement and attachment brand of the Farm, Ranch, and Agriculture Division of Blount International (NYSE: BLT), have joined together to provide the highest quality implements paired with the highest quality tractors.

"Through this agreement, customers have access to more than 70 Woods implements paired with Massey Ferguson tractors," says Jerry Johnson, president of Blount International's Farm, Ranch and Agriculture Division. "We're proud to provide Massey Ferguson dealers a broader product offering and to have sales of these implements supported by AGCO Finance programs."

Woods rotary cutters, finishing mowers, flail shredders, rear-mounted snow blowers and landscape equipment will be painted to match Massey Ferguson tractors and will be available at participating Massey Ferguson dealerships.

Some Massey Ferguson dealers already carry Woods products. Now, many more Massey Ferguson dealers will have an opportunity to sell the combined equipment.

"We are always looking for ways to make our customers' lives easier," says Alistair McLelland, AGCO vice president of North American marketing. "We believe that leveraging the Woods reputation for reliability and innovation is a great match for the Massey Ferguson brand. Our customers can go into one dealership, buy one package, have one finance program, all while receiving the highest quality tractor and implement combination."