Wednesday February 4 Ag News

Register Now for UNL On-Farm Research Meetings

Nebraska growers who turned to on-farm research to answer their production and pest management questions will be sharing the results of their work at three meetings this month.  Learn from what they learned and hear from University ag specialists on what these results can mean for your farm.

On-Farm Research Updates will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the following sites:
·         Friday, Feb. 13 in Grand Island, Hall County Extension Office, College Park Campus
·         Monday, Feb. 16 in Norfolk, Lifelong Learning Center, Northeast Community College
·         Tuesday, Feb. 17 near Mead, Agricultural Research and Development Center

The Nebraska On-Farm Research Network is a statewide program addressing critical farmer production, profitability, and natural resource questions. Growers take an active role in conducting the field-length, replicated treatment comparisons in their fields using their equipment. Data and information will be presented on these topics:
·         Cover crops
·         Foliar fungicides
·         Growth promoters
·         Harvest methods
·         Seed treatments
·         Nutrients, including foliar micro nutrients, lime, and other nutrients
·         Planting operations
·         Corn population
·         Soybean population
·         Use of polymer
·         Use of sugar

To learn more about the Nebraska On-Farm Research Network and how to participate, go to cropwatch.unl.edu/farmresearch. The Nebraska On-Farm Research Network is sponsored by Nebraska Extension in partnership with the Nebraska Corn Board, Nebraska Soybean Board, and Nebraska Corn Growers Association.

Preregistration is requested for meal planning. To preregister for any of the sites call (402)624-8000 or e-mail christina.franklin@unl.edu.  Five Certified Crop Advisor Credits are applied for and pending approval.



NEBRASKA EXTENSION OFFERS CROP SCOUT TRAINING IN MARCH

Crop scouts will learn how to better manage corn and soybean pests during a Nebraska Extension Crop Scout Training for Pest Managers program March 5.

The training provides in-depth and detailed information from university specialists.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., and the workshop is from 9 a.m-5 p.m. at the University of Nebraska's Agricultural Research and Development Center near Mead.

Cost is $155. Fees include lunch, refreshment breaks, workshop materials and instruction manual. Registrants should preregister to reserve their seat and to ensure workshop materials are available the day of the training session. Updated reference materials are included in this year's take- home instruction manual.

Topics include: how corn and soybean plants grow and develop; soybean and corn insect management; identifying weeds -- plant morphology; using a key to identify weed seedlings; crop diseases; and nutrient deficiencies.

Certified Crop Advisor continuing education credits are available with 4 in pest management, 1 in crop management and .5 in fertility/nutrient management.

For more information or to register, contact Nebraska Extension at (402) 624-8030, (800) 529-8030, e-mail Keith Glewen at kglewen1@unl.edu, or online at http://ardc.unl.edu/cmwp.shtml.



SUPPLEMENT COWS TO IMPROVE CALF PERFORMANCE
Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension Forage Specialist
               Can you feed your pregnant cows so their calves gain more weight and more heifers get pregnant?  Recent research suggests that proper supplementation pays off.

               As winter forage quality declines and cow nutrient demands increase, wise operators feed protein supplements to assure healthy calves plus cows that will rebreed rapidly.  But protein supplements are expensive, so we usually feed only what the cow needs to stay healthy.

               New research, though, suggests that this strategy of minimizing input costs may overlook the impact supplements have on the future performance of the calf.

               Recent research has shown that properly supplementing the cow can increase profitability of the calf she’s carrying.  In one study, steers born from cows that received protein supplement while grazing winter range produced an extra 60 pounds of carcass weight per animal compared to steers from non-supplemented cows.

               In other studies, the pregnancy rate of heifers from cows that received protein supplements while grazing corn residue or winter range was higher than heifers from non-supplemented cows.  And steers from these supplemented cows graded choice more often.

               This outcome, where supplementing protein to the cow improves the performance of her calves later in life is called fetal programming. It is thought to occur partly because cow nutrition affects development of fetal organs and muscles, which is highest during the last third of gestation.  Since most winter feeding and grazing programs use forages that are low in protein, adequate supplementing can pay big dividends.

               As cows approach calving time, don’t scrimp on the protein.  Feed what is needed, both for the cow and her calf.  You’ll be money ahead.



MARCH WATER SYMPOSIUM AND WATER LAW CONFERENCE AT NU LAW COLLEGE

    Back-to-back one-day water symposium and water law conference will be at Lincoln’s NU College of Law March 19 and 20.

    “On March 19 our focus will be research, practices and policy related to sustainability of the High Plains aquifer for food production and water supply, while the following day’s events focus on Nebraska water law for practicing attorneys and other water law professionals,” said Chittaranjan Ray, director of the Nebraska Water Center, which is part of the University of Nebraska’s Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Institute.

      Cosponsoring the annual events are NU’s College of Law,  U.S. Geological Survey Nebraska Water Science Center, Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Institute and the Natural Resources Section of the Nebraska State Bar Association.

      “We have very strong agendas and great speakers for both events and hope those interested will register for both events,” Ray said.

      March 19’s speakers all focus on some aspect of sustainability and use of the High Plains, or Ogallala, aquifer which underlies approximately 174,000 square miles in portions of South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Texas.

      Jim Butler of the Kansas Geological Survey will talk about a first order approach for assessing prospects for sustainability of the aquifer in western Kansas; UNL’s Jesse Korus will follow with a presentation on the geology and hydrology of the aquifer and Steve Peterson of the USGS Nebraska Water Science Center will discuss modeling water flow in the northern part of the aquifer.

      Other symposium speakers include Nebraska and Texas producers Roric Paulmann of the Nebraska Water Balance Alliance and Glenn Schur of the Texas Alliance for Water Conservation, along with researcher Anthony Kendal of Michigan State University.

      Four local studies of the aquifer will be presented in the afternoon by Steve Sibray of UNL’s Conservation and Survey Division; Lyndon Vogt of the Central Platte Natural Resources District; Nick Brozovic of the Daugherty Water for Food Institute; and Nathan Schaepe of the USGS Nebraska Water Science Center.

      A panel discussion on use and sustainability of the High Plains Aquifer into the future concludes the day’s agenda. 

      The following day’s presenters will cover the latest in regulatory and statutory changes in Nebraska water law, focusing on litigation and new developments directly impacting water law locally and regionally.

      This includes federal impacts on water law, such as water quality efforts under the Clean Water Act in places like Florida, the Chesapeake Bay region or the Mississippi River watershed that could impact Nebraska.

      “Clean Water Act jurisdictional rules will also be covered, along with Endangered Species Act impacts,” said organizer Anthony Schutz of NU’s College of Law.

      Conference keynote speaker is Ann O’Connell, assistant to the Solicitor General of the United States.
      “She specializes in original actions before the U.S. Supreme Court and will discuss the U.S. position in such actions and how her office develops those positions,” Schutz said.

      Innovations and developments in integrated management will be discussed by Jasper Fanning of the Upper Republican NRD and Jim Schneider of the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and then a panel will discuss subjects related to NRD administration concerning handling claims and disputes before them, Schutz said.

      A session on ethics in the water law arena by The Honorable James E Doyle IV, Judge of the District Court, 11th Judicial District, Nebraska concludes the conference. 

      Though the water conference focuses on information of interest to practicing attorneys, it is open to all. NUs College of Law and the Natural Resources Section of the Nebraska State Bar Association are cosponsoring this event.

      Continuing legal education credits are available for Nebraska, Iowa and Colorado.

      Information on both events, including detailed agendas and online registration, is at watercenter.unl.edu. Registering for either day is $175. A discounted rate of $290 applies if registering for both days. Registration increases by $50 per event after Feb. 19. Online registration is at http://go.unl.edu/cic. More information can be found on both events at watercenter.unl.edu. Direct questions to Tricia Liedle at 402-472-3305 or pliedle@nebraska.edu.



Leaner Profits Drive Farm Loan Growth
Nathan Kauffman, KC Fed - Omaha Branch Executive
Maria Akers, KC Fed - Omaha Branch Associate Economist 

Reduced profits in the crop sector persisted in the fourth quarter of 2014, leading to a sharp rise in farm-sector borrowing and a slight decline in cropland values. A near-record fall harvest pushed crop prices to their lowest levels in five years, eroding profit margins and prompting a rise in loan volumes to finance short-term operating expenses. Farmland markets also cooled amid prospects of lower farm income, particularly in heavy crop-production areas. Should low crop prices and high input costs persist, crop sector profit margins may weaken further and strain loan repayment capacity in the coming year.

Section A - Fourth Quarter National Farm Loan Data
Agricultural lending escalated in the fourth quarter amid lower profits in the crop sector. According to the national Survey of Terms of Bank Lending to Farmers, conducted during the first full week of November, the total volume of non-real estate farm loans rose significantly compared with the same period in 2013. Most of the gains were driven by increased borrowing for current operating expenses. In 2014, a large U.S. corn and soybean harvest placed downward pressure on prices and limited cash receipts for fall crop sales. With production expenses holding at high levels, reduced farm income increased the need for financing to pay for next year’s crop inputs. Despite a slight rebound in crop prices from the October low, corn and soybean prices have remained significantly below those of recent years.

In contrast, profitability in the livestock sector improved markedly in 2014 as cattle and hog prices strengthened and producers paid lower feed costs. Low cow inventories due to several years of herd liquidations continued to push feeder cattle prices to new highs, lifting profits for cow/calf producers but increasing costs for feedlot operators. Lending to the livestock sector rose significantly in 2014, primarily due to a jump in feeder livestock loans. Looking ahead, the supply of feeder cattle may contract further if a reduction in calf slaughter signals that more animals are being retained to rebuild herds.

As short-term borrowing in the farm sector ramped up, intermediate-term loan volumes for farm equipment purchases fell further. Demand for farm equipment weakened as prospects of a record crop, and lower prices, appeared more certain heading into harvest.  According to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, 2014 combine and four-wheel drive tractor sales in the U.S. began on par with 2013 levels but slowed steadily and ended the year down 26 percent.  Although the existing Section 179 tax incentives for the purchase of machinery and equipment were reinstated the last week of December, the reinstatement seemed too late to significantly boost 2014 sales.

Section B - Third Quarter Call Report Data
Farm lending at commercial banks remained well above year-ago levels in the third quarter and bank profits edged higher. Commercial bank call report data showed farm debt outstanding at commercial banks was 6.7 percent higher than the previous year, as of Sept. 30. Loan growth was driven by a 6.9 percent annual increase in the volume of loans secured by farm real estate and a 6.6 percent annual increase in the volume of loans to finance agricultural production. Increased lending pushed loan-to-deposit ratios at agricultural banks to their highest levels since 2010.

Improved farm sector loan performance supported a slight rise in profits at agricultural banks. At the end of the third quarter, the return on assets at banks with an above-average percent of loans made to the agricultural sector edged up from year-ago levels. Delinquency rates on both farm real estate and non-real estate loans moved lower and net-charge offs as a share of total loans also declined. In addition, the average capital ratio at agricultural banks improved from last quarter and last year.

Section C - Third Quarter Regional Agricultural Data
According to Federal Reserve surveys, reduced profitability in the crop sector has been accompanied by a slowdown in cropland price appreciation or even a slight reduction in values, particularly in the Corn Belt. Agricultural bankers reported that nonirrigated cropland values have edged down from recent peaks in several states while year-over-year value gains have moderated in others. Ranchland values, however, continued to rise with strong demand for high-quality pasture. While the majority of survey respondents expected cropland values would stabilize, some anticipated additional declines in 2015.

Agricultural bankers reported only a modest deterioration in credit conditions despite a drop in farm income in the third quarter of 2014. Reduced profitability for crop producers in the Chicago, St. Louis, Minneapolis, and Kansas City Districts was driving increased demand for operating loans and a decline in loan repayment rates as well as more requests for loan renewals and extensions (Chart 12). Still, survey respondents in all reporting Federal Reserve Districts indicated funds were available for farm loans but noted a slight rise in collateral requirements.

Commenting on the livestock sector, Dallas survey respondents reported initial signs of herd rebuilding but noted that current low inventories were keeping cattle prices high and boosting demand for feeder cattle loans. However, easing drought conditions and profitability in the cattle sector bolstered loan repayment rates in the Dallas District and lessened the need for loan renewals and extensions.

Conclusion
Tighter profit margins for crop producers drove increased lending to the agricultural sector for production loans but trimmed farm capital spending and demand for equipment loans in 2014. Agricultural bankers reported sufficient funds were available to satisfy a rise in loan demand but also noted some deterioration in loan repayment rates and indicated collateral requirements had tightened slightly. After narrowing in 2014, the direction of farm sector profit margins in 2015 will be a key factor in determining whether agricultural credit conditions improve or worsen in the coming year.



Green Plains Reports Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2014 Financial Results

Omaha-based Green Plains Inc. (Nasdaq:GPRE) announced today its financial results for the fourth quarter of 2014. Net income for the quarter was $42.2 million, or $1.07 per diluted share, compared to net income of $25.5 million, or $0.65 per diluted share, for the same period in 2013. Revenues were $829.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2014 compared to $712.9 million for the same period in 2013.

Net income for the full year was $159.5 million, or $3.96 per diluted share, compared to $43.4 million, or $1.26 per diluted share for the same period in 2013. Revenues were $3.2 billion for the full year of 2014 compared to $3.0 billion for the same period in 2013.

"We continue to focus on profitable growth opportunities within and adjacent to our value chain," said Todd Becker, President and Chief Executive Officer. "This year gave us the opportunity to demonstrate the capability of the large diversified platform we have been building over the last 7 years. We produced a record 966 million gallons of ethanol, processed 10 million tons of corn, and earned over $100 million of non-ethanol operating income in 2014. We are also close to achieving our goal of zero net term debt."

During the fourth quarter, Green Plains ethanol production totaled 246.6 million gallons, or approximately 96% of its daily average production capacity. Non-ethanol operating income from the corn oil production, agribusiness, and marketing and distribution segments was $23.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2014 compared to $28.2 million for the same period in 2013. Non-ethanol operating income for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $103.8 million compared to $80.9 million for the same period in 2013.

"U.S. ethanol margins have been volatile during the first part of this year. Demand for the product at these lower price levels remains robust, both domestically and internationally. We expect the industry will continue to adjust to lower energy prices and remain optimistic we will perform well over the coming year," added Becker. "Green Plains just completed its sixth consecutive year of profitable operations, a testament to the resiliency of our people, our assets and our strategy."

Green Plains had $455.3 million in total cash and equivalents and $187.5 million available under committed loan agreements at subsidiaries (subject to borrowing base restrictions and other specified lending conditions) at December 31, 2014. Green Plains reduced term debt outstanding by $100.8 million and invested $85.4 million in capital expenditures and acquisitions during 2014.

Fourth quarter 2014 EBITDA, which is defined as earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, was $90.7 million compared to $63.9 million for the same period in 2013. For the year ended December 31, 2014, EBITDA was $350.7 million compared to $156.6 million for the same period in 2013. 

2014 Business Highlights
-    The Company began ethanol production at its Fairmont, MN ethanol plant in early January 2014. The 115 million gallon per year ethanol plant had been idle for over a year when it was originally acquired in November 2013.
-    Following the Company's notice to redeem its $90.0 million of 5.75% convertible notes due 2015, nearly all holders exercised their conversion rights resulting in the issuance of approximately 6.5 million common shares in exchange for the notes, which was completed on March 19, 2014.
-    In May 2014, following approval by the Company's shareholders, the Company's name was changed from Green Plains Renewable Energy, Inc. to Green Plains Inc. to reflect the diversification of the Company's operations from a focus primarily related to renewable energy.
-    In June 2014, Green Plains Processing LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, completed a $225 million Senior Secured Credit Facility due in 2020. The proceeds of the credit facility were used to refinance debt outstanding at five subsidiaries in the ethanol production segment. Credit ratings assigned to the credit facility from Standard & Poor's and Moody's are BB and B2, respectively. Green Plains Inc. corporate credit ratings are B+ and B2 from Standard & Poor's and Moody's, respectively.
-    In June 2014, Green Plains acquired the assets of Supreme Cattle Feeders from Agri Beef Co. The acquisition included the feed yard doing business as Supreme Cattle Feeders and the Cimarron Grain storage facility based near Kismet, Kansas. The operation consists of approximately 2,600 acres of land that has the capacity to support 70,000 head of cattle and its current grain storage capacity is approximately 3.8 million bushels.
-    In August 2014, Green Plains announced a share repurchase program of up to $100 million of its common stock pursuant to which it may repurchase shares from time to time in open market transactions, privately negotiated transactions, accelerated share buyback programs, tender offers or by other means. The timing and amount of repurchase transactions will be determined by the Company's management based on its evaluation of market conditions, share price, legal requirements and other factors. No shares have been repurchased pursuant to this program to date.
-    In November 2014, Green Plains Trade Group LLC amended its senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility from $130.0 million to $150.0 million and extended the maturity date to November 26, 2019.
-    In December 2014, Green Plains Cattle Company entered into a $100.0 million senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility with various lenders to provide for working capital financing for the cattle feedlot operations. This loan replaced the $15.0 million senior secured asset-based revolving credit facility. The revolving credit facility matures in October 2017.
-    In December 2014, Green Plains paid a quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per share on its common stock. For 2014, Green Plains paid $8.9 million in dividends to shareholders.



BNSF plans $226 million capital program in Nebraska to maintain and expand rail capacity and ensure safe, reliable operations

BNSF Railway Company (BNSF) today announced that its 2015 capital program for its operations in Nebraska will be an estimated $226 million for rail capacity improvement projects and maintenance. Unlike other modes of freight transportation, U.S. railroads own and maintain their own networks. To ensure BNSF’s network operates at optimal efficiency, each year the company allocates capital for infrastructure and expansion projects that will enable it to serve the growing needs of customers from a broad cross section of the economy.

 “This year’s substantial investments in Nebraska are a clear reflection of how important our operations in the state are to our overall network and our unwavering commitment to always operating safely – for our people and the communities in which we operate,” said Janssen Thompson, BNSF general manager operations Nebraska Division. “We know our customers are competing in a fast-paced, global economy where a smooth, efficient supply chain can be the difference between winning and losing in the marketplace. This year’s planned expansion and maintenance projects will help give BNSF the capacity flexibility it needs to support our customers’ growing demands and connect Nebraska products to key markets.”

BNSF’s 2015 capital projects in Nebraska include constructing two double track segments on the Ravenna subdivision between Bradshaw and Aurora and Pleasant Dale and Milford totaling 18 miles. These projects will greatly improve capacity on this heavily-trafficked coal route. Continuous maintenance of BNSF’s infrastructure ensures an optimized, safe and reliable network. Maintaining the railroad is important for keeping it in optimal condition and helps limit the need for unscheduled service outages that can slow down the rail network and reduce capacity. BNSF’s maintenance program in Nebraska will include 2,014 miles of track surfacing and undercutting work, and the replacement of close to 55 miles of rail and about 214,000 ties as well as signal upgrades for federally-mandated positive train control (PTC).

The planned capital investments in Nebraska are part of BNSF’s record 2015 capital commitment of $6 billion, which was announced last November and is the company’s largest planned capital expenditure in its history. These investments include $2.9 billion to replace and maintain core network and related assets, nearly $1.5 billion on expansion and efficiency projects, $200 million for continued implementation of PTC and $1.4 billion for locomotives, freight cars and other equipment acquisitions.



Grower Services Team Focuses on Grassroots Support

Volunteer grower members of the National Corn Growers Association's Grower Services Action Team are meeting this week in Charleston, S.C., to review association programs dealing with membership, leadership and communications - three areas critical to NCGA's success as a farmer-led national organization.

A full agenda includes updates on the membership programs and benefits for members, the college scholarship program, NCGA's grassroots advocacy program, the upcoming Commodity Classic convention and trade show and NCGA's communications and leadership development programs. Members will also be briefed on the organization's political action committee and efforts to help farmers grapple with data privacy concerns.

"We've got a great team and a great organization working on some key areas for our farmers," said action team Chairman Tom Haag of Minnesota. "These meetings help our growers understand the work of NCGA and provide an important perspective from the field. They are part of what make our grassroots leadership a respected and effective part of NCGA."

In addition to Haag, grower members of the Grower Services Action Team are Vice Chairwoman Patty Mann of Ohio, Corn Board Liaison Kevin Skunes of North Dakota, Debbie Borg of Nebraska, Jayne Dalton of Wisconsin, Les Imboden of Ohio, Larry Mason of Texas, Mike Moreland of Missouri, Ted Mottaz of Illinois, Gerald Mulder of Minnesota, Danny Nerud of Nebraska, Glenna Taylor of Illinois and Roger Zysltra of Iowa. Katie Glick, with Indiana Corn, represents state affiliates and NCGA Director of Development Joe Hodes is the staff lead for the team, with NCGA's Vickie Darland assisting.



2015 Iowa Pork Regional Conferences to offer Health, Audit and Traceability information

Iowa pork producers are invited to learn more about disease preparedness and traceability, development and implementation of common industry audits, and swine health research at the 2015 Iowa Pork Regional Conferences this month.

Attendees also will learn how to prepare for an audit and get swine program updates from Iowa State University Extension swine specialists.

The Iowa Pork Industry Center, Iowa Pork Producers Association and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach cosponsor this annual series at different sites around the state.

Conferences will be held Feb. 23-26 and follow the same schedule at all four locations with sessions held from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Conference dates and locations are as follows:
● Monday, Feb. 23 - Sheldon, NW Iowa Community College, Bldg. A, Room 116/119
● Tuesday, Feb. 24 - Carroll, Carroll County Extension office
● Wednesday, Feb. 25 - Nashua, The Borlaug Learning Center
● Thursday, Feb. 26 - Iowa City, Johnson County Extension office

There is no cost for those who preregister and pork operation employers, managers and staff are encouraged to attend. Walk-in registration is $5 per person, payable at the door.

Pork Checkoff veterinarians Drs. Patrick Webb and Dave Pyburn, along with Sherrie Webb from the National Pork Board, will share their experience and expertise in developing and implementing a common industry audit and in building disease preparedness and traceability throughout the U.S. Specific presenters will vary by location.

Newly hired ISU Extension swine veterinarian and nationally renowned swine production medicine expert Dr. Chris Rademacher will share updates on diagnostic submissions and swine health research at Iowa State, along with his plans for advanced field research in his new role.

At their respective locations, ISU Extension and Outreach swine program specialists will provide updates on practical audit preparation, training opportunities and programming and resources available through IPIC. They'll also lead PQA Plus training sessions for attendees from 9:30 a.m. to noon the day of each session. The training is free for those who preregister, so please indicate attendance for this training as well as the afternoon conference by contacting IPPA Producer Education Director Tyler Bettin at (800) 372-7675 or tbettin@iowapork.org .

To preregister, call IPPA at (800) 372-7675 or e-mail Barb Nelson at bnelson@iowapork.org



Iowa Learning Farms February Webinar Focuses on Forage Crops and Grazing

The Iowa Learning Farms February webinar will feature Joe Sellers, a beef specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The free webinar will be live on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 1 p.m.

Sellers will present the feeding value of various annual forage crops, and the pros and cons of grazing these crops compared with harvesting them as silage or hay. He also will discuss issues with establishing and utilizing cover crops after Iowa grain crops, as well as other applications for forage crops including pasture renovation and using annuals to fill forage supply gaps.

Sellers has been with ISU Extension and Outreach since 1987 and has worked primarily with beef, sheep and forage clients throughout his career. He has extensive background in beef and sheep management systems and works with producers as they decide feed rations, bull selection, grazing management and marketing. He has been a partner in the family farming operation in Lucas County since 1976.

The ILF webinars are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 1 p.m. They are free and all that is needed to participate is a computer with Internet access. To participate, go to https://connect.extension.iastate.edu/ilf/ at 1 p.m. on the afternoon of the webinar and log in through the guest option. Webinar participants will be able to converse with Sellers by typing their questions through the chat function. The webinar will be recorded and archived on the ILF website for viewing any time. All past webinars are archived on the ILF website, www.extension.iastate.edu/ilf/Webinars/.

Since January 2011, ILF has hosted a webinar every month. There are more than 45 webinars to view on a wide range of topics including soil erosion, cover crops, buffers, bioreactors and farmer perspectives. The webinar archives also are available in podcast through iTunes.



Cattlemen Gather in San Antonio for the 2015 Cattle Industry Convention
 
More than 7,000 cattlemen and women from across the country are registered to attend the 2015 Cattle Industry Convention and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Trade Show, which kicked off today at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. The convention, which will run through Feb. 7, is the largest annual gathering of the beef industry.

NCBA President Bob McCan said this year’s convention in his home state of Texas is will not disappoint.

“I’m happy to welcome everyone to the great state of Texas and San Antonio is a historic town full of culture and great sights. This week we will highlight some of the great successes of the past year and set the course for what lies ahead,” McCan said. “Today, Cattlemen’s College kicked off convention with over 20 different classes, kick starting a great week with many opportunities for cattlemen and women to hear directly from the experts about how to grow and improve their operations.”

This year the Trade Show will be the largest to date. On the Trade Show floor will be two education areas, including a demonstration area with live animals to provide hands-on instruction. NCBA’s Learning Lounge is back again, featuring 30-minute educational sessions to provide attendees valuable educational tips from industry experts in informal, face-to-face, technology-friendly classroom settings.

Following Cattlemen’s College, exciting keynote speeches at the general sessions, and a record-breaking Trade Show, convention goers will have the opportunity to attend committee meetings and take part in the grassroots policy development.

“It’s important now, more than ever, for producers to get involved and engaged in the public policy,” said McCan. “The strong grassroots policy process is the backbone and the strength of NCBA and this week will discuss important policy issues and lay the groundwork for the year ahead.”

With so many events taking place during the convention all attendees are encouraged to download the 2015 Cattle Industry Convention app to their smart phones to see the schedule of events, locations, maps and receive alerts before, during and after the event. Visit www.beefusa.org for more information about the convention, and follow NCBA on Facebook and Twitter.



Ethanol Stocks Soar to 2 1/2-Year High

The Energy Information Administration released data on Wednesday showing domestic ethanol inventories surged to a 2-1/2 year high while implied demand and production by plants nationwide declined.

The data showed total stockpiles increased for the sixth straight week, up 400,000 barrels (bbl), or 1.7%, to 21.0 million bbl during the week-ended Jan. 30. That's the most stocks in storage since the week-ended June 15, 2012.

Total supplies are 4.2 million, or 25.4%, higher than the level seen a year ago.

Plant production declined for the second straight week, down 30,000 barrels per day (bpd), or 3.0%, to 948,000 bpd while up 5.9% year-over-year. Four-week average output was up 8.8%.

Blender inputs, a proxy for ethanol demand, declined during the week-ended Jan. 30 after three straight weeks with of gains, decreasing 12,000 bbl or 1.4% from a one-month high to 830,000 bpd, while up 3.6% year-over-year. Four-week average inputs rose 3.4% to 831,000 bpd.

Implied demand for gasoline tumbled 580,000 bpd to 8.442 million bpd last week, 0.1% lower than the same week last year, EIA reported.



NCGA: Goodlatte Bill “a huge step backward” for Energy Independence

Today, Reps. Bob Goodlatte, Jim Costa, Steve Womack, and Peter Welch re-introduced the RFS Reform Act. Chip Bowling, president of the National Corn Growers Association, issued the following statement:

“Once again, Rep. Goodlatte and his colleagues have put Big Oil ahead of America’s corn farmers. The Renewable Fuel Standard is working. We are opening the market to competition from America’s renewable energy market, and breaking Big Oil’s monopoly. With the help of the RFS, we have reduced foreign oil imports by 25%. In 2013, 33% of petroleum consumed in the U.S. was imported – the lowest level since 1985. The renewable fuels industry drives an estimated $184.5 billion in economic output and supports more than 850,000 jobs.

“Farmers answered the call for energy that is clean, renewable, and American-grown. They have produced a second consecutive record crop, with more than enough corn to meet our needs for food, fuel, feed and fiber. The price of corn today is lower than the cost of production, and less than when the RFS was passed. Repealing the RFS would increase the cost of farm programs, hurt rural communities, and make America more dependent on foreign oil. Ethanol is also better for the environment: reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 110 million metric tons, the equivalent of taking 20 million vehicles off the road.

“This legislation would be a huge step backward – for America’s energy independence, for consumer choice at the pump, for the rural economy, and for the environment. We should be investing in America’s farmers, not undercutting them in favor of Big Oil.”



NFU Says RFS Reform Act Will Destroy Biofuels Industry and the Prosperity It Brought Rural America

The following statement was released today following the introduction of a bill that would eliminate the corn-based ethanol mandate for biofuel production and restrict overall volume targets. The following statement should be attributed to Roger Johnson, president, National Farmers Union.

“The elimination of the corn-based ethanol mandate and blend cap will gut the nation’s biofuel production, strand existing investment in second generation biofuel production and hurt family farmers, ranchers and rural communities that have experienced much-needed reinvestment from this policy. This is not only a bad step for agriculture, but also is a major setback to the environment and our nation’s attempts to manage its carbon emissions. We urge Congress to reject this policy and continue to embrace the vision of a robust renewable fuels industry as a component of this nation’s overall energy portfolio.”



U.S. Dairy Industry Drives Home Concerns on Geographical Indications and Common Food Name Issues During TTIP Stakeholders Forum

The U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC), an active member of the international Consortium for Common Food Names (CCFN), today briefed U.S. and EU negotiators on deep-set concerns with the EU's current approach to protections for geographical indications (GIs). The presentation was made during the stakeholder briefings here in conjunction with this week's U.S.-EU talks on the Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP).

USDEC's Brussels Representative Maike Moellers made three central points to negotiators, points that are also supported by CCFN members. The first was that the approach to GIs used in the EU-Canada agreement is wholly unacceptable to producers that use common food names.

"Since the conclusion of the EU-Canada agreement, we have heard from the EU side again and again that the agreement with Canada on GIs could be a model for TTIP. This is a notion that we absolutely reject," she said.  Such demands, she added, "would envisage U.S. producers as well as others in the world relinquishing their right to use long-standing generic food names, such as 'asiago', 'feta', 'fontina', 'munster' and 'gorgonzola'."

Moellers noted that roughly $21 billion in U.S. cheese production uses European-origin names, reflecting the immigrant roots in the U.S. that trace back to many European countries.

Moellers' second point was that GIs can be workable when approached correctly.

"We do believe that products with a very specific geographic designation included in their compound name, such as 'Gouda Holland', can be protected to the benefit of producers and consumers, while the single word 'gouda' clearly remains unrestricted and in free usage," she said.

Thirdly, Moellers noted that EU prohibitions are proliferating around the world, spread within trade agreements - such as recent agreements with South Africa and Morocco - and new registrations, most notably the EU's current movement to register "havarti", a cheese for which an international Codex standard exists.

"As a result of these various efforts," Moellers said, "competition to EU products is eliminated by restricting third-country markets for U.S. exports."

Moellers concluded by again suggesting - as the U.S. dairy industry has done previously - that negotiations on GIs should be dealt with in a separate forum in order to carefully assess the legitimate concerns of both sides, including finding a solution for the reintroduction into the EU market of key U.S. products bearing names that until only recently had been viewed widely throughout the EU as generic - such as U.S.-made "parmesan" and "feta" cheeses.

"We must avoid this issue becoming a stumbling block for an agreement that could otherwise present an unprecedented opportunity to boost free trade," she said.

The full remarks can be found at www.CommonFoodNames.com.



Merck Animal Health and DVAuction Introduce Cattle Market Central

     Merck Animal Health and DVAuction, Inc., announced the most accurate and timely feeder cattle prices in real-time from one website. Cattle Market Central™ (CMC), an extension of the familiar Beef Market Central™, provides feeder cattle class and weight offerings, as well as prices updated automatically throughout the day from more than 45 auction markets.

     Cattle producers can test CMC with a free, four-week complimentary trial from Merck Animal Health. Interested producers can simply visit cattlemarketcentral.com to sign up.  Qualified Merck Animal Health customers will be offered continued CMC access after the trial or cattle producers can subscribe to the service.

     “This site was developed with extensive input from cattle producers and designed to help address their critical real-time needs in this digital age,” said Jim Miles, Merck Animal Health senior marketing director. “We've had 275 producers test the site to ensure that it provides what cattlemen want, and we've gotten excellent feedback about its ease of use and value.”

     Among the innovations CMC offers is a Real-Time Index (RTI) that emulates the CME feeder-cattle index. “As cattle sell across the country, the RTI lets you compare against similar cattle sold the previous day,” said Corbitt Wall, cattle analyst for DVAuction. “Based on 650- to 850-pound steers from Regions 1 and 2, the RTI is a moving, seven-day price and weight average that’s updated instantly.” In comparison, the CME feeder-calf index comes out every 24 hours and doesn't adjust during the day.

     The website’s dashboard features the RTI, as well as a list of auction markets participating that day. “Producers can access and participate in live auctions with one click, including viewing video of the actual cattle on-site,” added Dusty Markham, sales director for DVAuction.

     Among its many highlights, CMC lets subscribers create and save custom sales reports – selecting for region, auction market, cattle class, weight range and more. An alert option lets producers key in specific parameters, and it will send them a text or email message when such cattle are available.

     The quick report option gives instant, real-time access to basic market information in just a few clicks. “For example, you can get a report on 700- to 800-pound steers sold in the past 72 hours in Region 2,” Markham noted. The market report option provides detailed reports on cattle sales from the past 30 days for specific markets. CMC also provides industry headlines and news summaries to keep producers well informed.

     CMC is accessible through PC platforms. For more information, contact your Merck Animal Health representative or go to cattlemarketcentral.com.



New N YIELD™ AZ anti-freeze formula protects nitrogen with world's most proven stabilizer

US-based Eco Agro Resources introduces a new stabilizer product, the latest breakthrough against the loss of nitrogen fertilizer. It combines the world's most proven nitrogen stabilizer ingredient with the power of PENXCEL technology for unsurpassed performance.

Andrew Semple, CEO of Eco Agro Resources explains, "Our customers have shared with us the challenges of the standard formulations that are currently available. Application in freezing weather using cold fertilizer and ice-cold steel equipment causes problems, for example. To solve this, we've developed N YIELD AZ, a high-performance nitrogen stabilizer formulation that stays liquid, even at freezing. It coats fast and consistently in the blender. And it gives growers reliable protection for their nitrogen investment."

The new, patent pending N YIELD AZ formulation was created to stay liquid at zero (AZ) using PENXCEL technology that contains unique anti-freeze additives. It delivers excellent performance, not only in cold weather, but also under tough field conditions. N YIELD AZ with PENXCEL technology penetrates deeper into granular urea and provides consistent coverage throughout the blend. It conditions as it coats. The benefit is as much as 25% less time in the blender than the industry standard. Its water-free formula doesn't add moisture to the fertilizer or to equipment, keeping the blend as free-flowing as possible.

New for the 2015 growing season, this unique formulation has functional benefits both blenders and farmers appreciate. On urea, it appears bright yellow. N YIELD AZ nitrogen stabilizer will be available from a number of distributors nationwide. For more information, visit ecoagro.com.