Monday February 2 Ag News

NDA DIRECTOR IBACH HIGHLIGHTS NEBRASKA AS FIRST IN NATION IN CATTLE ON FEED

Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) Director Greg Ibach today called attention to a newly released United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) report showing Nebraska once again leads the nation in cattle on feed.

USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released the Cattle Inventory by Class report late last week.  It compares cattle on feed figures from January 1, 2014, to January 1, 2015.  The report includes information from surveys conducted to count the total number of cattle across the nation and is categorized by several different classes and highlighted by state.

According to the report, Nebraska claimed the No. 1 spot in the nation for total number of cattle on feed with 2.55 million head, followed by Texas with 2.51 million head and Kansas with 2.18 million head.

“Nebraska is known across the nation as the prime destination for finishing cattle.  I strongly believe that is because of the synergy that has been created by our cattle, corn and ethanol sectors,” said Ibach.  “I also believe Nebraska has become the ‘go to’ state for cattle finishing because folks recognize the professionalism of our producers.”

NDA works with industry groups and feedlot operators to promote the sector through a variety of means, including attending trade shows across the nation, Ibach said.  One of the tools NDA staff members use during their promotions is the Cattle Feeders Directory.  The online directory features information about Nebraska’s feedlot operations including contact information, capacity, where they source their cattle from, financing and feed options, as well as marketing and value added programs in which the feedlot participates.  The directory can be found on the Department’s website at www.nda.nebraska.gov under Ag Promotion and Development or at http://tinyurl.com/NEcattlefeeders.

“The Cattle Feeder Directory has been very popular with those interested in finishing their animals in Nebraska.  It provides producers with information that will help them choose which feedlot operation works best into their overall production goals,” he said.

“Nebraska has a strong reputation of producing high-quality beef products.  Our feedlot operations are a critical part of that process,” said Ibach.  “I am pleased to see continued growth in our beef sector.”



TRIUMPH OF AG EXPO Announces Seminar Schedule
   
Over 1,000 booths with over 200,000 square feet of Exhibit space of the latest technology will be showcased at the 49th Annual TRIUMPH OF AGRICULTURE EXPOSITION Farm & Ranch Machinery Show, Wednesday, March 11, 2015 and Thursday, March 12, 2015 at the CenturyLink Center Omaha.

Regarded as the Area's Largest Indoor Shortline Farm Machinery Show, the EXPO has become a tradition for area farmers, ranchers, stockmen, and their families to come to the show and ask questions directly to the leading farm manufacturers and suppliers for ways to improve their farm operation right before spring fieldwork begins all at one time and under one roof. The Seminar schedule is attached and provides a chance to learn more about some of the new products and services available at the Show.  The Farm Show is open on Wed, March 11 from 9 AM to 4 P.M. and on Thurs, March 12 from 9 AM to 3 PM.

Seminar Schedule -  

 Wednesday, March 11, 2015
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM –  Dempsters’ Profit Builder Program and 2015 Models presented by Ryan Mitchell from Dempsters LLC.   SR #1.
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM – Wind Energy – Connecting to the Grid with Bergey Wind Power.   Presented by Todd Nelson from Energy Grid Solutions. SR #2..
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM – Market Outlook for 2014.  Are the Good Times Really Over for Good?   Presented by Darin Newsom, Senior Market Analyst from DTN.  SR #1.
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM – Silverstone , Inc – Flatproofing Solutions.  Presented by Brian Walter from Silverstone, Inc.SR#2.
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM – Saving the Family Farm: Succession & Estate Planning for Farmers and Ranchers.  Presented by Dana Troske from Mutual of Omaha and Farm Saver Estate Planning, James Blazek and Jerrod Gregg – Estate and Business Planning Attorney’s.   SR #3.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM – Marketing Your Used Machinery. Presented by Steve Anderson from Stock Auction/ Big Iron.     SR #1.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM –  101 Ways To Stay Safe and Healthy on Your Farm.  Presented by Ellen Duysen from UNMC.  SR #2.
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM –  Growing Non GMO Soybeans.  Presented by Brad Law from Willcross Seed.  SR #1.
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM –  The Power of Perennial Food Plots.  Presented by Jeremy Flinn, Regional Wildlife Biologist from Cabela’s.   SR #2.
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM –  Generators – What’s New!!   with Garry McCollum from Service One.  SR#3.
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM –  What is in Store for the Weather for 2015!  Presented by Al Dutcher – State Climatologist from the University of Nebraska.  SR #1.
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM – Appraisal and Farm Management.   Presented by Eric Geiger and Dennis Biehl from Mid-Continent Properties, Inc.   SR #2.
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM – Succession Planning. Presented by John Feller, Attorney at Law  - Feller Law Office, PC.  SR # 3.
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM – Nebraska Sales Tax Exemption For Agricultural Repair and replacement Parts.  Presented by Steve Drzaic from the Nebraska Department of Revenue.   SR #1.

Thursday, March 12, 2015
10:00 AM - 11:45 AM – Dempsters’ Profit Builder Program and 2015 Models presented by Ryan Mitchell from Dempsters LLC.   SR #1.
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM – Saving the Family Farm: Succession & Estate Planning for Farmers and Ranchers.  Presented by Dana Troske from Mutual of Omaha and Farm Saver Estate Planning, James Blazek and Jerrod Gregg – Estate and Business Planning Attorney’s.   SR #3.
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM –  Growing Non GMO Soybeans.  with Brad Law from Willcross Seed.  SR #1.
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM – The Power of Perennial Food Plots.  Presented by Jeremy Flinn, Regional Wildlife Biologist from Cabela’s.   SR #2.
11:00 AM - 11:45 AM –Succession Planning. Presented by John Feller, Attorney at Law - Feller Law Office, PC.  SR # 3.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM –   What is in Store for the Weather for 2015!  Presented by Al Dutcher – State Climatologist from the University of Nebraska.  SR #1.
12:00 PM - 12:45 PM –  Appraisal and Farm Management.   Presented by Eric Geiger and Dennis Biehl from Mid-Continent Properties, Inc.   SR #2.
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM –  Nebraska Sales Tax Exemption For Agricultural Repair and replacement Parts.  Presented by Steve Drzaic from the Nebraska Department of Revenue.   SR #1.
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM –  Silverstone , Inc – Flatproofing Solutions.  Presented by Brian Walter from Silverstone, Inc.SR#2.
1:00 PM - 1:45 PM –  Generators – What’s New!!   with Garry McCollum from Service One.   SR#3.
2:00 PM - 2:45 PM –  Wind Energy – Connecting to the Grid with Bergey Wind Power.   Presented by Todd Nelson from Energy Grid Solutions. SR #2..



NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the month of January 2015, above normal temperatures and limited moisture during the month allowed livestock to utilize crop stubble and limit use of hay and forage supplies, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. A snow storm at the end of the month brought welcome moisture to most eastern areas and provided the wheat crop with cover. Producers have been reviewing farm program options and preparing for tax work. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 2 percent very short, 27 short, 70 adequate, and 1 surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 5 percent very short, 27 short, 67 adequate, and 1 surplus.

Field Crops Report: Winter wheat condition rated 0 percent very poor, 3 poor, 36 fair, 54 good, and 7 excellent.

Livestock Report: Cattle and calf conditions rated 0 percent very poor, 1 poor, 15 fair, 74 good, and 10 excellent. Sheep and lamb conditions rated 0 percent very poor, 1 poor, 20 fair, 68 good, and 11 excellent. Hay and roughage supplies rated 0 percent very short, 7 short, 90 adequate, and 3 surplus. Stock water supplies rated 0 percent very short, 9 short, 90 adequate, and 1 surplus.



NEBRASKA JANUARY 1 SHEEP AND GOAT INVENTORY

All sheep and lamb inventory in Nebraska on January 1,2015 totaled 81,000 head, up 5,000 head from last year, according to the USDA’s NationalAgricultural Statistics Service.

Breeding sheep inventory totaled 67,000 head, up 2,000 head from last year. Ewes one year and older totaled 55,000 head, up 1 ,000 head from the previous year. Rams one year and older remained unchanged from last year’s 3,000 head. Total replacement lambs was 9,000 head, up 1,000 head from last year.

Market sheep and lambs totaled 14,000 head, up 3,000 head from last year. A total of 1,000 head were mature sheep (one year and older) while the remaining 13,000 were under one year. Market lamb weight groups were estimated as follows: 3,500 lambs were under 65 pounds;2,000 were 65-84 pounds; 2,500 were 85-105 pounds; 5,000 were over 105 pounds.

The 2014 lamb crop totaled 73,000 head, up from 71,000 in 2013. The 201 4 lambing rate was 135 per 100 ewes one year and older, compared with 1 34 per 100 ewes in 2013.

Shorn wool production during 201 4 was 445,000 pounds, up 25,000 pounds from last year. Sheep and lambs shorn totaled 62,000 head, up 3,000 head from 2013. The average price paid for wool sold in 2014 was $1.06 per pound, compared with $1.05 in 2013. The total value of wool produced in Nebraska was $472,000 in 2014.

Milk goat inventory in Nebraska totaled 3,700 head on January 1, 2015, down 100 head from  last year.



Biofuels is topic of Feb. 10 Omaha Science Cafe

Scott Williams, Ph.D., managing director of the Omaha Biofuels Cooperative, will present “Biofuels: From Used Cooking Oil to our Fuel Tanks and Beyond,” at the next Omaha Science Café to be held at 7 p.m. on Feb. 10 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St.

Dr. Williams co-founded Omaha Biofuels Cooperative with his twin brother, Eric, six years ago with the mission to produce, use, and promote biofuels to reduce consumption of fossil fuels. As part of this mission, members of the cooperative collect and process waste vegetable oil into biofuels that are then used to fuel cars, trucks, vans, trains and generators.

Currently the cooperative provides biofuels to the Henry Doorly Zoo, which is used to power the zoo’s steam locomotive trains.

“We see Science Cafe as a great way to engage people in a conversation about cleaner, renewable fuels and energy available in Omaha today,” Dr. Williams said.

A graduate of Westside High School, Dr. Williams attended Iowa State University where he earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees. He was a graduate researcher at Los Alamos National Laboratory, and also worked as a postdoctoral fellow at the German research institute Helmholtz Center Berlin, using neutron tomography and radiography to study operating hydrogen fuel cells, along with other engineering applications.

Moving back to the United States, Dr. Williams worked for two-and-a-half years at Johns Hopkins University on a project funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, studying advanced biofuels made from algae biomass.

He returned to Omaha in April 2014 to help lead the Omaha Biofuels Cooperative. In addition, he also works part-time as an academic advisor at NorthStar Foundation's after school program.

Science Cafés involve a face-to-face conversation with a scientist about current science topics. They are open to everyone (21 and older), and take place in casual settings like pubs and coffeehouses. Each meeting is organized around an interesting topic of conversation. A scientist gives a brief presentation followed by a question and answer period.

Pizza will be provided by The Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures for the first 50 people. For more information about Science Cafes, go to www.unmc.edu/sciencecafe.



Iowa's Frozen Ground Manure Application Rules Kick in Sunday, Feb. 1

Starting Feb. 1, animal producers with totally roofed (confinement) facilities face limits on land applying liquid manure if the ground is frozen.

The state rules kick in then, because runoff and nutrient loss after winter manure application is more likely when manure can’t be injected into the soil or incorporated into a field.

Dating back to Dec. 21, manure application is also limited on snow-covered ground. These limits affect confinement facilities with liquid manure that have 500 or more animal units. Generally, 500 animal units equals 1,250 finishing hogs; 5,000 nursery pigs; 500 steers, immature dairy cows or other cattle; or 357 mature dairy cows.

Except in emergencies, the law limits liquid manure application from Dec. 21 to April 1 if the ground is snow-covered with an inch or more of snow or one-half inch of ice. Liquid manure application on frozen ground, soil that is impenetrable due to frozen soil moisture, is restricted from Feb. 1 to April 1. However, frozen ground does not include soil frozen two inches deep or less.

If manure can be properly injected or incorporated, it can be land applied during this time.

Producers must call the local DNR field office to report emergency applications before they apply.

While the law affects confinements with liquid manure, open feedlots and poultry producers can help keep manure in place by using common sense and choosing application areas far from a stream, on flat land with little snow cover.

All producers must follow setbacks from certain buildings and environmentally sensitive areas.

Search for more information on requirements for separation distances and winter manure application at www.iowadnr.gov/afo/. Recommendations from the Iowa Manure Management Action Group about applying manure in winter are available at www.agronext.iastate.edu/immag/pubs/imms/vol3.pdf.



Industry experts to report research results, discuss water quality at ISA Research Conference Feb. 19

Nearly 40 presentations discussing new and emerging technologies and environmental practices will report new research results as part of the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) Research Conference on Thursday, Feb. 19 in Ames. Please plan to join us for this event.

Presentation topics will include crop nutrient and pest management, the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy, water quality, cover crops, sustainability and emerging technologies. Three panels composed of farmers from across the state will also highlight the event — one of the panels will kickoff the event on the evening Wednesday, Feb. 18. See the full agenda online.

The conference, formerly the On-Farm Network® Conference, now also includes the Environmental Programs and Services (EPS) team. Discussions about environmental practices will be ongoing throughout the day including a farmer panel about water quality practices which will take place at 2 p.m. and feature Kellie Blair of Dayton, Seth Watkins of New Market, Dean Sponheim of Nora Springs and Rob Stout of Washington. At 3:15 p.m., a discussion of the future of Iowa’s soil and water will begin with thoughts from Roger Wolf, ISA EPS director, Pat Reeg, ISA On-Farm Network director and Steve Hershner, Cedar Rapids Utilities director, among others.

In addition to farmers and ISA environmental and research experts, presenters from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the Indiana Department of Agriculture, the Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance, Iowa State University and a variety of other stakeholders will present the findings of recent research affecting agriculture in Iowa and across the nation.



Cedar  Rapids chef wins IPPA pork culinary competition

A Cedar Rapids chef bested the competition and took first place at the Iowa Pork Producers Association's 2015 Iowa Pork Taste of Elegance competition Jan. 26 in Des Moines.

Chef Tim Oathout of Zeppelins Bar & Grill was named Chef Par Excellence in IPPA's 29th annual culinary contest at the Des Moines Marriott. He prepared a special pork entrée he called "Sorghum Whiskey Glazed Pork Belly." IPPA presented Oathout with $1,000, a plaque and the opportunity to attend the National Pork Summit in St. Helena, Calif., this spring.

Another Cedar Rapids chef took home the title of Superior Chef. Daniel Dennis of the Class Act prepared an entrée he titled "Pork Belly Confit and won $500 and a plaque.

Chef Wesley Roe of the Dubuque Golf and Country Club captured third place with his "Fall Morning" pork entrée and received the Premier Chef plaque and $250.

IPPA also presented a People's Choice Award to Chef Lisa Smith of the Hotel Julien in Dubuque. Smith earned $250 and a plaque for her "Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Mango Cherry Chutney" entrée.

This year's contest brought in 10 chefs from around Iowa. Each was required to use a fresh pork cut in an original entrée. The winning pork dishes were selected on the basis of taste, appearance and originality by a panel of judges.

The competition was judged by Scott Bruhn, executive chef at Iowa State University Dining, Plymouth County hog farmer and past IPPA President Bill Tentinger of Le Mars and Don Hensley, corporate chef at New Horizon Cuisine.



USDA Announces Commodity Credit Corporation Lending Rates for February 2015

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) today announced interest rates for February 2015. The CCC borrowing rate-based charge for February is 0.250 percent, up from 0.125 percent in January.

The interest rate for crop year commodity loans less than one year disbursed during February is 1.250 percent, up from 1.125 percent in January.

Interest rates for Farm Storage Facility Loans approved for February are as follows, 1.875 percent with seven-year loan terms, down from 2.000 percent in January; 2.000 percent with 10-year loan terms, down from 2.250 percent in January and; 2.125 percent with 12-year loan terms, down from 2.375 percent in January.



USDA to Release New Long-Term Agricultural Projections

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will release its 10-year agricultural projections on Feb. 11, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. EST. USDA's Agricultural Projections to 2024 will be posted to the Office of the Chief Economist's (OCE) website at www.usda.gov/oce and available in MS Word and PDF formats. Projections data will be available as Excel spreadsheets, as well. Selected tables from the projections report were made available on Dec. 18, 2014.

USDA publishes the projections each year in February. The projections are developed by interagency committees in USDA, with the Economic Research Service (ERS) having the lead role in the preparation of the report. The new projections cover crop and livestock commodities, agricultural trade and aggregate indicators, such as farm income, through 2024. The projections do not represent a USDA forecast, but a conditional, long-run scenario based on specific assumptions about farm policy, weather, the economy and international developments. Normal weather is assumed throughout the projection period. The projections were prepared during October through December 2014 and reflect the Agricultural Act of 2014.

Background on USDA's long-term projections and past issues of the report are available on the ERS website at www.ers.usda.gov/topics/farm-economy/agricultural-baseline-projections.aspx.



Rabobank Releases Report Exploring Cow Confinement and Semi-Confinement

Cattle producers across the U.S. are heeding economic indications to rebuild and expand their herds, but a 32 million-acre decline in pasture availability over the last ten years is hindering expansion and causing producers to weigh options that require less land, according to a new report from the Rabobank Food & Agribusiness (FAR) Research and Advisory group. The report, “Outside In: Confined Cow-Calf Production as a Viable Model for Rebuilding the U.S. Cow Herd Numbers” finds that more innovation is paramount to the growth of the U.S. cattle sector.

“The U.S. cow herd must grow if the industry is going to preserve existing infrastructure and regain lost market share,” says report author and Rabobank Food & Agribusiness Research and Advisory Group Senior Analyst Don Close. “In order to for that growth to occur, the beef and cattle community must address main expansion constraints: high capital barriers, declining availability of grazable acres, and ageing producers. In many parts of the country, incorporating systems for confined calf production is an important stop to overcoming these constraints.”

Close notes confined cow-calf production is an avenue to enable young producers entry into the industry. It is also a means in which land-locked corn belt row crop producers can  expand their revenue stream, allowing young family members to return to the farm.

The report finds that confined production systems present an alternative that replaces high capital requirements with intensified management and labor. The report’s economic evaluation shows that two systems—confined calf production in excess feed yard space and in confinement buildings that are typically built in the Corn Belt—are very competitive compared to conventional production models.

“While the primary method of U.S. calf production will remain the traditional cow-calf grazing model, the benefits of confined and semi-confined programs – primarily increased efficiency from the cow herd and healthier animals – makes them a truly viable and valuable option,” notes Close.  “The ability to adjust the nutritional needs of the cow to the pregnancy/post-calving stage, and the ability to sort cows and adjust feed requirements based on their body condition scores isn’t an option with open grazing.”



CattleFax Mobile App Approaches 100,000 Downloads

The CattleFax Mobile App has quickly become the go-to smartphone and tablet application for cattle producers and industry professionals needing market information on the go.

The application is nearing 100,000 downloads as it celebrates its second anniversary during the 2015 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show. Another release will be available on the Apple App Store and Google Play during the industry event.

The latest update continues to improve on the existing layout and design. The mobile application also features the support of R.J. O’Brien & Associates (RJO), the largest independent futures brokerage and clearing firm in the United States.

“A large number of introducing brokers in our network have found the CattleFax Mobile App to be a useful tool,” says Gerald Corcoran, Chairman and CEO, RJO. “We believe the new features will further broaden the appeal to introducing brokers and our clients.

“RJO is pleased to support the newest version of the mobile app as a great resource for the industry.”

Futures markets continue to be the most frequently used section of the application, and users will notice enhanced charting ability for individual futures contract prices.

“Cattle producers continue to be the most mobile segment of our industry,” said Randy Blach, CEO, CattleFax. “Cow-calf producers are especially looking for timely market prices, news, analysis and research. The CattleFax Mobile App fills that niche.

“The latest version of the application continues to improve on the original foundation,” noted Blach. “Partnering with other industry leaders – like RJO and Zoetis – only enhances what we are able to provide. We will continue to push out new updates to make the app even more relevant to the industry.”

Sponsoring partner Zoetis delivers content on animal health and management through the app. This powerful combination of business, cattle and operational management information makes the app a must-have for producers and industry members.

CattleFax members can sign into the app using their membership e-mail and password to unlock exclusive content, but most features are available to all users.

During the next 30-days, non-members will have unlimited access to all application features. As part of this promotion, CattleFax is also offering new members an opportunity to purchase a two-year membership for the price of a one-year membership.

To become a CattleFax member, visit booth 7063 at the NCBA Trade Show, sign up online at www.cattlefax.com/membership.aspx, or call 800-825-7525.

Websites:
iTunes:  http://info.cattlefax.com/appleitunes
GooglePlay:  http://info.cattlefax.com/googleplay
CattleFax.com: http://www.cattlefax.com/mobile.aspx



Beef Herd Rebuilding Starts in Earnest
Tim Petry, Livestock Economist, North Dakota State University Extension Service

Any doubts that U.S. beef cow herd rebuilding had started were laid to rest, with the USDA-NASS release of the much anticipated CATTLE report on Friday, Jan. 30, 2015.  According to the report, on Jan. 1, 2015, the number of beef cows that calved at 29,693,100 head was up almost 2.1 percent from the 29,085,400 head on Jan. 1, 2014. The number of beef replacement heifers at 5,777.4 thousand head increased over 4% from 2014. Furthermore, the number of beef replacement heifers expected to calve in 2015 at 3,546 thousand head was up over 7% from the 3,305 thousand in 2014.

As expected, several top beef cow states in the Southern Plains that were forced to liquidate beef herds due to several years of drought, expanded cow numbers with the improving pasture and range conditions in the last year or so. Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado accounted for 534,000 of the total 607,700 head increase in U.S. beef cows. Texas, the top beef cow state in the U.S. with 4.18 million cows, saw an increase of 270,000 head. Second place Oklahoma at 1.9 million cows recorded a 105,000 head increase. From 2009 to 2014, the beef cow herd in Texas declined from 5.17 million head to 3.91 million.

Those same 5 states combined for a 165,000 head increase in beef cow replacement heifers out of the total 226,100 increase in the U.S. Beef replacements increased 80,000 head in Oklahoma followed by 50,000 head in Texas.

Interestingly, in spite of record drought in parts of California in 2014, beef cow numbers were unchanged at 600,000 head and milk cow numbers also stayed the same at 1.78 million head. Beef replacements even increased 10,000 head to 120,000 and dairy replacements were unchanged at 750,000.

NASS also revised upward the number of beef replacement heifers on July 1, 2014. The July CATTLE report showed 4.1 million beef replacements, but that was revised to 4.3 million. So instead of being down about 2.4% from the 4.2 million in July 2012, heifers were up about 2.4%. The 2013 July CATTLE report was not issued due to sequestration, so comparisons with 2013 were not possible.

The 2014 calf crop at 33.9 million head was up slightly from the 33.73 million in 2013. A combination of 1.8% more beef and milk cows, and 4.3% more beef and dairy replacement heifers expected to calve should lead to a larger calf crop again in 2015.

The total number of calves and feeder cattle outside of feedlots at 25.2 million head was up about 0.5% from the 25.1 million last year. Those cattle that were grazing small grain pastures at 1.93 million were up 320,000 head from 2014.

Now that beef cow herd rebuilding has been officially documented, attention will now be directed to how much additional rebuilding will happen in the next few years. Of course, moisture conditions and many other factors will affect that



NCGA Applauds Withdrawal of WOTUS Interpretive Rule, Calls for Continued Dialogue

The National Corn Growers Association today applauded the withdrawal of the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) interpretive rule and called for continued dialogue between the Environmental Protection Agency and the agricultural community.

The EPA and Army Corps of Engineers withdrew the interpretive rule on Jan. 29, citing a requirement by Congress included in last year's "cromnibus" appropriations bill. The interpretive rule was intended to clarify normal farming activities exempt from the Clean Water Act.

"Farmers have a lot of concerns about WOTUS," said Maryland farmer Chip Bowling, president of NCGA. "What we need is clarity. The interpretive rule actually made things less clear. We hope that the withdrawal of the interpretive rule will allow us to get to the true matter at hand: how the Clean Water Act is administered."

NCGA had called for the withdrawal of the interpretive rule in its formal comments to the EPA and Corps last year. NCGA has also called for significant changes to the WOTUS rule itself, and will continue to work with EPA through the rulemaking process. A final rule is expected this spring.

Bowling stressed the importance of working with the EPA and giving farmers a voice during the process.

"Last October, I brought EPA officials to my farm so they could see firsthand how a farm the proposed rules would actually apply in practice. It was a productive conversation. To the EPA, I want to say: thank you for listening. I think both sides learned a lot," said Bowling.

"We need to continue that dialogue, on WOTUS and beyond. We can all agree that clean water is important. Farmers are committed to improving water quality and conservation practices. We look forward to working with Administrator McCarthy and the EPA as they finalize the WOTUS rule, to ensure it is clear and workable for farmers."



EPA Withdraws Water Guidance as Result of NMPF Objections

As the result of objections raised by the National Milk Producers Federation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has withdrawn a regulatory guidance issued last year concerning when farmers must seek Clean Water Act permits for a long list of normal farming activities near wetlands.

On Friday, January 29, the EPA and the U.S. Department of Army signed a memorandum withdrawing the "Interpretive Rule Regarding the Applicability of Clean Water Act Section 404(f)(1)(A)." Last summer, NMPF requested that the Interpretive Rule be withdrawn because it could have actually discouraged water conservation and environmental best practices.

“Our concern with the initial proposal from last year is that it could have altered the long-standing and productive relationship between farmers and the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, in a way that would have made it harder for farmers to implement water conservation measures,” said Jamie Jonker, NMPF’s Vice President for Sustainability & Scientific Affairs.

“We’re pleased the EPA and Army have recognized that this regulation could have backfired, and that they’ve taken the necessary step to withdraw it,” Jonker said.

The EPA guidance, officially called an Interpretive Rule, was issued in March 2014. It said farmers are only exempt from needing Clean Water Act permits for more than 50 routine farming practices if they comply with detailed NRCS technical conservation standards. Historically, these standards have been voluntary, and the farming practices exempt from the permit process.

In comments filed last July, NMPF said the guidance changes NRCS’s role from that of a conservation partner to that of an enforcer of the Clean Water Act, on EPA’s behalf.

Had the interpretive rule not been withdrawn, “the NRCS would have been thrust into the role of enforcer, rather than remaining a source from which farmers could seek conservation advice.  This could have hindered rather than helped conservation efforts,” he said.

Jonker noted that NMPF has drawn up a detailed environmental handbook based on NRCS standards but tailored specifically to dairy farmers.  Those who followed the guidelines in the book apparently would not have qualified for a permit exemption, “challenging the very notion of why the handbook was created in the first place,” Jonker added.

Established initially the 1930s, the NRCS provides voluntary help to farmers who want to conserve the resources on their farms.

The now-withdrawn Interpretive Rule was intended to be part of the larger Waters of the U.S. proposal issued last year by the EPA.  The larger proposal is still under review by both EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers, and is also being scrutinized by Congress.



Statement from Secretary Vilsack on Fiscal Year 2016 Budget Proposal

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today made the following statement on the proposed Fiscal Year 2016 budget:

"President Obama's 2016 Budget is designed to bring middle class economics into the 21st century. The budget proposal achieves reforms and results for the American taxpayer, modernizes critical infrastructure, supports the research and innovation required to build resilience in the face of a changing climate, and creates a pathway towards continued growth and prosperity in rural America.

"The budget continues to fund programs that, since 2009, have helped more than 900,000 families buy or refinance a home; improved or constructed more than 158,000 miles of electric line; brought clean drinking water and better waste water management to 15.7 million rural residents; and provided grants and loans to assist more than 89,000 rural businesses, creating or saving more than 418,000 jobs. Collectively, these investments support stable communities and create jobs in rural America.

"To empower hardworking Americans as they transition out of nutrition assistance programs, we have invested in programs that build the skills they need to get a good paying job while increasing access to fresh, healthy foods as they work towards self-sufficiency. The budget also supports programs that give children the nutrition they need to learn and grow, including expanded resources to promote the use of MyPlate and help schools upgrade outdated kitchen equipment as they continue to provide healthy school meals with more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean protein and low-fat dairy, and less sodium and fat. The budget also continues efforts to increase breastfeeding rates among low-income women.

"The 2016 budget fosters innovation and advances technologies that address climate change vulnerability, improve pollinator health, combat antimicrobial resistance, encourage the development of renewable energy, and support the efficiency, sustainability and profitability of America's farmers and ranchers, particularly those just starting out.

"The budget again proposes a new approach to wildland fire suppression. It will treat severe wildfires like other natural disasters that can draw on emergency funding, rather than raiding other critical programs, like forest restoration and management, research and other activities that help manage our forests and reduce future catastrophic wildfire.

"USDA's Blueprint for Stronger Service has saved the American taxpayer a total of $1.368 billion while ensuring that taxpayers receive the best possible service. The budget builds off those efforts by strengthening program integrity and increasing resources to support USDA's aggressive actions to root out waste, fraud and abuse. It proposes the consolidation of certain programs in order to cut costs while improving their effectiveness.

"The 2016 budget, along with programs authorized by the 2014 Farm Bill, is a strong investment in the men and women living, working and raising families in rural America. Building on the successes of the past six years, the budget supports rural communities that are more innovative, competitive and resilient in the long run, which benefits every American, no matter where they live."



Senator Roberts Responds to President’s Budget Proposal

U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today said the President’s Fiscal Year 2016 Budget Proposal is more of the same tired, agenda-driven wish-list that taxes, borrows and spends too much.

“The President’s budget raises taxes on savings and small businesses. It borrows so much that at the end of President’s plan, annual interest costs would be larger than his proposed spending for national defense, Medicaid or the combined total of all non-defense agency spending.

“The President is especially hard on farmers, proposing to cut the crop insurance program and again placing a disproportionate share of federal budget cuts on the shoulders of producers.

“Our nation cannot afford the President’s course. Fortunately, the new Senate Republican Majority will soon debate a budget, one that will actually balance and one that will work for the taxpayer.”

Senator Roberts is the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry.



House Ag Committee Chairman Conaway responds to President Obama’s FY2016 budget proposal

Today, House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway issued the following statement regarding President Obama’s Fiscal Year 2016 budget proposal.

“Like a broken record, the President’s latest budget proposal calling for higher taxes and more spending doesn’t sound any better to hard-working Americans than it did the first time around. Simply put – this budget will hurt the economy and cost American jobs.

“Rural America is no exception. Under the President’s proposed tax increases, including the elimination of stepped-up basis, the next generation of young producers would find it harder to take over the family farm or ranch. At the same time, the President’s ill-timed proposal on crop insurance would jeopardize the ability of producers to insure their crops in a climate of collapsing crop prices, major crop losses, and falling farm income. These tired proposals for higher taxes and more spending, along with EPA’s long list of choke-hold regulations, reflect the agenda of a President who is out of touch with the everyday concerns and lives of working families in rural America.”



NFU Applauds Budget; Insists Agriculture Has Already Done Its Part to Reduce the Deficit

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson today commended President Obama’s 2015 Budget Proposal, noting its crucial investments for family farmers, ranchers, and rural America.

“The president has demonstrated meaningful support for the men and women who grow this nation’s food, feed, fiber and fuel, and the challenges they face daily,” said Johnson.

“The dramatic changes fueled by climate change are clearly one of the major hurdles facing America’s producers,” noted Johnson. “Family farmers and ranchers across the U.S. are already feeling the impact of increasing weather volatility, resulting in fewer workable field days, increased potential for soil erosion, and increased crop insurance claims. Investments in clean energy and climate resilience, like the permanent extension of the renewable electricity production and investment tax credits, will create new opportunities for American businesses while mitigating our producers’ climate risk.” 

Johnson also noted that for generations, farming and ranching income has lagged behind the overall prosperity of the nation, and that the budget outlines opportunities to reduce this disparity.

“The president’s budget proposal recognizes the disparity between farming and ranching incomes and the rest of the nation, which NFU has long worked to address,” said Johnson. “Through meaningful changes to the tax code, investments in rural development programs, and expanded educational opportunities, this budget has the potential to lift up rural communities.

Johnson said that he was disappointed the Administration has proposed across the board cuts to crop insurance, a farmer’s primary risk management tool.

“The 2014 Farm Bill just included $23 billion dollars for deficit reduction, so agriculture has clearly already done its part,” he said. Johnson urged the administration to look to other parts of the budget for additional reductions. “When Mother Nature strikes or markets fluctuate, without crop insurance, many family farmers and ranchers could be put out of business,” he said.



USDA Invests $18 Million to Train Beginning Farmers and Ranchers

Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture's Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden (USDA) announced more than $18 million in grants to educate, mentor, and enhance the sustainability of the next generation of farmers. The grants are available through the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program (BFRDP) administered by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which was authorized by the Agricultural Act of 2014 (Farm Bill).

"As new farmers and ranchers get started, they are really looking to their community for support. The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program empowers these farmers and ranchers to bring innovative ideas to the table when it comes to addressing food security, creating economic enterprises, and building communities," said Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden. "As we celebrate the first anniversary of the 2014 Farm Bill, programs like these are evidence that an investment in beginning farmers and ranchers is an investment in our future".

The grant announcement was made at Recirculating Farms Coalition in New Orleans. Recirculating Farms received a BFRDP grant to develop training sessions focusing on soil-based production and aquaculture for new and beginning farmers in New Orleans.

The BFRDP program, first established by the 2008 Farm Bill, aims to support those who have farmed or ranched less than 10 years with workshops, educational teams, training, and technical assistance throughout the United States. NIFA awards grants to organizations that implement programs to train beginning farmers and ranchers. Today's announcement was funded by the 2014 Farm Bill, which continued authorization of this program.

The 2014 Farm Bill mandated at least five percent of BFRDP funding support veterans and socially disadvantaged farmers. Among today's announcement, more than 15 percent of the funded projects have a substantial component that supports veterans and farming, while about 50 percent of the projects focus mainly on socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers. A fact sheet with a complete list of awardees and project descriptions is available on the USDA website.

    Since 2009, 184 awards have been made for more than $90 million through the Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program. These awards are part of USDA's deep commitment to beginning farmers and ranchers. Additional USDA investment in beginning farmers and ranchers include:

    Since 2009, FSA has issued more than 8895,000 direct and guaranteed farm operating and farm ownership loans to beginning farmers and ranchers.

    FSA's microloan program, an important access point to credit for some new farmers and ranchers, has issued more than 9,600 microloans totaling $188 million. Seventy percent of these loans have gone to beginning farmers. Recently, USDA raised the ceiling for microloan from $35,000 to $50,000, giving new farmers access to more credit.

    The 2014 Farm Bill also strengthens the Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program for new producers by reducing the premiums on buy-up level coverage by 50 percent for new farmers and waiving their application fee. USDA announced this new tool for farmers and ranchers in 2015.

    USDA's Value-Added Producer Grants program gives priority to beginning farmers and ranchers to help them increase revenues through value-added agriculture, marketing, and new product development. Since 2009, more than 25 percent of 853 awarded Value Added Producer Grants went to beginning farmers and ranchers.

More information about USDA support for new farmers and ranchers is available at www.usda.gov/newfarmers.

The Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program is currently accepting applications for the 2015 grant cycle. Applications are due March 13, 2015.



Lawmakers Propose Creation of Single Food Safety Agency

U.S. lawmakers proposed a bill on Wednesday that would create a single food safety agency by bringing together the oversight functions of the Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Agriculture and other agencies. Democratic Senator Richard Durbin from Illinois and Representative Rosa DeLauro, a Democrat from Connecticut, told reporters on a conference call that the bill would create a single federal agency with an administrator directly appointed by the President.

The bill, introduced as the Safe Food Act of 2015, was co-sponsored by 10 other Democrats and aims to elevate food safety at a time when the U.S. food supply is increasingly sourced from abroad, reports Reuters.

"The fragmented Federal food safety system and outdated laws preclude an integrated, system-wide approach to preventing foodborne illness," it says.

Each year, 48 million people, or 1 in 6 Americans, suffer from foodborne illness. More than 100,000 are hospitalized and thousands die, according to federal data.

Currently most of the responsibility for food safety lies with the Food and Drug Administration. The U.S. Department of Agriculture oversees meat, poultry and processed eggs.

The bill would, among other things, consolidate food safety authority for inspections, enforcement and labeling, provide authority to recall unsafe food, and improve foreign food import inspections.

In January 2011, the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act was signed into law. The goal was to increase food safety by shifting the focus of regulators to preventing contamination rather than just responding to it. The lawmakers said their goal is to build on that.



Associations, Agencies Collaborate to Enhance Workplace Safety

Agricultural, first responder and safety organizations today signed an alliance with federal agencies to advance fertilizer safety.

The Agricultural Retailers Association, The Fertilizer Institute, International Fire Fighters Association, National Volunteer Fire Council and Ammonia Safety and Training Institute joined the Fertilizer Safety and Health Partners Alliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and Environmental Protection Agency.

"Over the last several months, we've partnered with OSHA and EPA on the Ammonium Nitrate Chemical Advisory, and others to get safety messages out to our members," said ARA President and CEO Daren Coppock. "But, we discovered that there was no official communication agreement between OSHA and ARA to help ensure workplace safety."

In early 2014, ARA began working with OSHA to set up an alliance program to improve communication between retailers and first responders regarding workplace hazards and the safe handling of fertilizers.

Since then, EPA and trade organizations such as The Fertilizer Institute, the National Volunteer Fire Council and the Ammonia Safety and Training Institute joined the effort.

The alliance formalizes a network to improve communication between retailers and emergency responders regarding workplace hazards and the safe handling of fertilizers.

"We look forward to working with our association and agency partners to further enhance the safety and security of agricultural retail facilities," said TFI President Chris Jahn.

Since the West Fertilizer explosion federal agencies have been considering many long-term regulatory options.

"Many of the options presented point toward changes in policy that will impact ag retailers; however, there is no current mechanism of communicating information to retailers that would strengthen the safety and health culture than voluntary outreach," said ARA Public Policy Counsel Michael Kennedy. "We are excited that OSHA and other partners are onboard in promoting our mutual goal."

The alliance will develop several projects to strengthen fertilizer safety efforts:
-    Present a joint commitment to worker safety and health to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses.
-    Conduct best practices seminars on effective emergency response procedures for between volunteer fire fighters and industry partners.
-    Create online compliance assistance tools and resources for retailers and first responders.
-    Produce case studies focusing on injuries and fatalities in the agricultural retail industry that result from ammonia releases or Ammonium Nitrate fires.
-    Update and promote Ammonium Nitrate Guidance and Government Alerts.



CWT Assists with 551,156 Pounds of Cheese and Butter Export Sales

Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) has accepted 6 requests for export assistance from Dairy Farmers of America, and Northwest Dairy Association (Darigold) to sell 507,063 pounds (230 metric tons) of Cheddar, Gouda and Monterey Jack cheese and 44,092 pounds (20 metric tons) of 82% butter to customers in Asia. The product will be delivered in February through April 2015.

Year-to-date, CWT has assisted member cooperatives in selling 4.420 million pounds of cheese and 14.407 million pounds of butter to fourteen countries on four continents. The sales are the equivalent of 364.961 million pounds of milk on a milkfat basis.

Assisting CWT members through the Export Assistance program, in the long-term, helps member cooperatives gain and maintain market share, thus expanding the demand for U.S. dairy products and the U.S. farm milk that produces them. This, in turn, positively impacts U.S. dairy farmers by strengthening and maintaining the value of dairy products that directly impact their milk price.



Applications Now Being Accepted for 2015 NFU Beginning Farmers Institute

National Farmers Union (NFU) is now accepting applications for the 2015 class of the Beginning Farmers Institute (BFI). The annual program is open to individuals who are new to farming, in the process of transferring an operation from a relative or non-relative to themselves, or contemplating a career in farming or ranching.

“The Beginning Farmers Institute underscores NFU’s commitment to growing a new generation of family agriculture,” said NFU President Roger Johnson. “One unique feature of the Institute is that participants direct the agenda, allowing them to gain information on topics that will be most relevant to their particular operations. The small size and diversity of the group also ensures valuable interaction and learning opportunities among the participants.”

The BFI program helps students gain insight and practical skills needed by beginning farmers and ranchers, including business plan writing, financial planning, and researching available programs to help starting up and sustaining a successful operation.

Applicants accepted into the 2015 program will attend three separate education sessions: Washington, D.C., Sept. 15-18; northern California, Nov. 5-8; and a final session culminating at NFU’s 114th Anniversary Convention in March 2016 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Program topics at the education sessions will include business planning, U.S. Department of Agriculture programs, tax and record keeping, estate transfer and marketing.

The Beginning Farmers Institute is supported by the CHS Foundation, FUI Foundation, Farm Credit, and the NFU Foundation.

Interested applicants can download the 2015 application on the NFU website, as well as visit NFU’s education Facebook page for updates and further information on NFU’s youth and young adult education programs. Applications must be postmarked on or before March 30, 2015. The announcement of accepted applicants to the BFI program will be on May 30, 2015.



ASA’s WISHH Program Hosts First U.S. Soy Foods Seminar in Myanmar

Asian food industry representatives gathered on Jan. 28 to gain insight into how they can offer a variety of nutritious foods made with soy and soy ingredients in Myanmar.

The American Soybean Association’s (ASA) World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) program organized the seminar with support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and North Dakota Soybean Council.

The seminar is based on WISHH’s USDA-supported research in Myanmar, which is located between India and China and formerly known as Burma. The research suggests that by partnering with the local industry to improve soy processing and increase awareness of soy and soy-based foods, human consumption of soy-based foods will expand in Myanmar.

“North Dakota soybean growers are pleased to work through WISHH and USDA to increase the potential for trade for soybeans,” said Art Wosick, who serves as a director of the North Dakota Soybean Council as well as on the WISHH Program Committee. “WISHH’s seminar will help Myanmar’s food processors, importers and others learn why U.S. soybeans are already so popular in foods throughout Asia and around the world.”

The Myanmar Food Processors and Exporters Association and Myanmar Edible Oil Dealers Association endorsed the program. It included presentations on the nutrition and health benefits of U.S. soy, new market trends, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs—which use business values and resources to make a positive social impact—that include soy, and the latest news in production, processing and purchasing. WISHH’s program featured speakers from the U.S. Soybean Export Council, which began developing markets for U.S. soy-based aquaculture feeds in Myanmar about four years ago.

The market for soy-based foods is currently small in the country that is home to more than 51 million people. Myanmar is already using soy in some foods, ranging from soy nuggets, rice-soy blends, soybean curd, soy cookies and crackers as well as soy beverages, especially in Northern Myanmar. Soy milk is increasingly popular in major cities. Myanmar consumers also use large amounts of vegetable oils for frying as well as an ingredient in sauces, soups and curries.



Syngenta, ag experts recommend strategies to manage U.S. industry downturn

As growers gear up for the 2015 planting season, USDA forecasts that net farm income from 2014 will fall 25 percent from the previous year. With less money to spend, how can both growers and retailers not only survive, but thrive through this period? A variety of ag experts agree that building an effective strategy is a crucial first step.

“For many, thinking about short-term return on investment may be the best approach,” said Dan Burdett, head of Customer Marketing & Services at Syngenta. “It may be better to delay longer-term investments that offer long-term payback and zero-in on the next crop cycle. Focus on the crop now and leave big equipment and building purchases for later.”

It could be a good time, however, to invest in crop insurance. “The products are so much better than they were even 10 years ago,” said Robert Regenwether, accredited farm manager and rural appraiser with Farmers National Company in Hudson, Iowa, and 2014 Professional Farm Manager of the Year. “In the past, it was strictly a yield product, but now you can insure your income level on a farm.” The indemnity adjusts to lower prices, so growers may have to sign up at a high coverage rate to get reasonable protection now.

Keeping accurate records is especially important when income is down. “Growers should ensure they have a good farm record-keeping system already in place, so they can use their data to help inform critical decision modeling,” Burdett said. “For example, the AgriEdge Excelsior® program from Syngenta gives growers a way to manage their farm operations more efficiently.”

One of the program’s most popular components is its data and record-keeping software, which helps growers measure the costs of everything they do and anticipate ROI.

Burdett also recommends focusing on costs of production, not cost per acre. “When challenged, growers may not invest in what really impacts yield,” he said, “but yield is the greatest driver of profitability because it reduces cost per unit of production. Cost per bushel is the best measure, not cost per acre.”

At the same time, growers must maintain a strong working-capital position. “Don’t add debt or use your cash and destroy your working capital,” said Mike Boehlje, Ph.D., distinguished professor of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University. But when growers must borrow money for larger purchases, they should structure debt over a longer term.

“Many farmers borrowed to buy equipment on a three-year payout and land on a 10-year mortgage,” Boehlje said. “That’s probably too short. It was OK when we had better prices, but not in the current climate. This conversation with your lender should happen before you encounter debt-servicing problems.” He also suggests locking in interest rates now.

And don’t forget that everyone has been in this kind of business climate before, Boehlje added. “Pull out that old playbook—the one you used through the 1990s,” he said. “The downturn will be stressful, but we’ve done this before, and we can do it again. But if we don’t start doing these things now, that’s probably not a strategy for success.”