Thursday June 4 Ag News

PVC Summer Tour is June 15th
Jarad Drinnin, President, Platte Valley Cattlemen

Our summer tour will be on Monday, June 15, starting at 3:30 p.m. with a tour of Went Livestock at the place of Todd Went, located at 18139 430th Street. We will be touring the feedlot along with talking about the stalklage plus pile and the benefits of it. After touring Went Livestock, we will be going to Rosendahl Farms Seed & Feed where we will be able to look at the equipment used for stalklage plus product. Rosendahl Farms Seed & Feed is located at 35884 175th Avenue. Food and beverages will be served there.

Do not forget to mark your calendars for the upcoming summer events which include the Platte and Colfax County Fair Beef Shows and the annual PVC Golf Outing which is set for Monday, August 17, 2015, at Quail Run Golf Course in Columbus.



Fischer Joins Bill to Protect Nebraskans from Duplicative Pesticide Rules
Bipartisan Legislation Would Address EPA Overreach

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) has joined a bipartisan group of senators to introduce legislation that would eliminate duplicative, burdensome EPA regulations on pesticides users. The bill, known as the Sensible Environmental Protection Act (SEPA), would clarify the intent of current federal regulations that are causing unnecessary burdens for Nebraska’s food producers, Natural Resource Districts, weed control agencies, and other pest management personnel. Senator Fischer released the following statement regarding the legislation this afternoon:

“Pesticide applicators across Nebraska are being forced to deal with duplicative and onerous federal regulations. This is causing real harm, resulting in increased costs throughout Nebraska and across America.

“To help alleviate this burden, I’ve joined my colleagues to introduce SEPA, which targets the requirements associated with the pesticide permits. Through this bipartisan legislation, we can provide relief to countless Nebraska farmers, outdoor enthusiasts, and their families.”

For over 30 years, the EPA has implemented a rigorous regulatory structure for pesticide applications under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). FIFRA governs the sale, distribution and use of pesticides, with the goal of protecting human health and the environment. This statute requires pesticides to be evaluated and registered with the EPA. Despite the fact that a federal regulatory framework is already in place, a 2009 court decision has forced the EPA require additional permits under the Clean Water Act for certain applications of pesticides in or near water.  This duplicative regulatory requirement went into effect in 2011.

SEPA would clarify this rule, stating that Clean Water Act permits are not required for pesticide applications in or near water. The bill would also require the EPA to report to Congress on whether the FIFRA process could better protect human health and the environment.

As a result of this dual regulation, the EPA has estimated an additional 365,000 pesticide users have been required to obtain Clean Water Act permits.  This is nearly double the number of entities previously subjected to permitting requirements, costing farmers and their families more than $50 million a year.  



NEBRASKA CANCELS POULTRY EVENTS IN EFFORT TO PREVENT SPREAD OF HPAI

After consultation with Nebraska Extension and poultry industry leaders, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) today cancelled all poultry events across Nebraska through January 1, 2016.  The ban will include all events where birds are co-mingled including: local and county fairs and festivals, the Nebraska State Fair, Ak-Sar-Ben, swap meets, exotic sales and live bird auctions in an effort to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic H5N2 avian influenza (HPAI). 

“The decision to cancel poultry events was made in an effort to protect the physical and economic health of Nebraska’s poultry sector.  It is a difficult decision as I know youth and adults would soon be exhibiting their projects at local fairs,” said NDA Director Greg Ibach.  “As a parent of past 4-H and FFA members, I understand the time and commitment that our youth put into their projects and can understand the disappointment they may feel in not being able to exhibit their projects this year.  This decision was not made lightly, but is necessary to assure we do everything possible to protect our collective poultry flock from further spread of the virus.”

Ibach applauds Nebraska Extension for working to identify options for youth enrolled in poultry projects to showcase their learning and participate in fairs in other ways than having their birds present.

Ibach continues to ask Nebraska poultry producers, large and small, to monitor their flocks for symptoms of the virus and notify NDA immediately if they suspect any problems. All bird owners, whether commercial producers or backyard enthusiasts, should prevent contact between their birds and other birds including wild birds, and report sick birds or unusual bird deaths to state/federal officials, either through NDA by calling 1-877-800-4080 or through USDA’s toll-free number at 1-866-536-7593. 

Additional information about HPAI can be found online at www.nda.nebraska.gov. 



NEBRASKA EXTENSION: POULTRY EVENTS CANCELED ACROSS NEBRASKA

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture has canceled all poultry events across Nebraska through Jan. 1, 2016, as an effort to prevent the spread of the highly pathogenic H5N2 avian influenza. The decision was made following discussions with Nebraska Extension and poultry industry leaders.

The ban will include all events where birds are co-mingled including local and county fairs and festivals, the Nebraska State Fair, Ak-Sar-Ben, swap meets, exotic sales and live bird auctions.

Protecting the physical and economic health of Nebraska's poultry sector is a priority as the virus spreads. Nebraska joins more than 10 states that have taken similar steps to protect their poultry flock.

While the ban will prevent Nebraska 4-H members from taking their birds to the Nebraska county and state fairs this season, youth are still encouraged to complete their projects. Nebraska Extension is working to identify options for youth enrolled in poultry projects to showcase their learning and participate in fairs in other ways than having their birds present.

"We know 4-H'ers statewide have been learning about the science of animals through their poultry projects," said Nebraska Extension Associate Dean Kathleen Lodl. "We will help them showcase that work and celebrate their successes in other ways."

More information will be available at http://4h.unl.edu. 

All bird owners, whether commercial producers or backyard enthusiasts, should prevent contact between their birds including wild birds, and report sick birds or unusual bird deaths to state/federal officials. Additional information about H5N2 avian influenza can be found online at http://www.nda.nebraska.gov.



Reminder to Report to FSA all Prevented Planting and Failed Acreage

Producers across Nebraska have experienced above average spring rains throughout the 2015 spring planting season. In some cases producers may not be able to plant all acreage or acreage already planted may have failed due to the excessive moisture received. Producers are reminded to report prevented planting and failed acres to FSA in order to establish or retain FSA program eligibility.

Prevented planting acreage must be reported on form FSA-576, Notice of Loss, no later than 15 calendar days after the applicable crop’s final planting date. Final planting dates for corn and soybeans are May 25th and June 10th. Final plant dates for all other crops can be obtained from either your crop insurance provider or from RMA at http://www.rma.usda.gov/.

Requests for prevented planting credit filed after the deadlines will be considered late-filed and must either be verifiable by a farm visit which confirms the eligible disaster condition, or by RMA data which was reported timely and supports the prevented planting information on the FSA-578.  A late-filed fee will be charged for late-filed prevented planting claims.

It is important for producers to report failed acreage to FSA, specifically in cases where the acreage is a complete loss or where the acreage will be destroyed and/or planted to a subsequent crop. In general, failed acreage should be reported to FSA prior to disposition of the crop with the exception of crops covered by the Non-Insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP). Crops with NAP coverage must be reported within 15 days of the occurrence of the disaster or when losses become apparent.  Any NAP crop that has failed must follow NAP guidelines before it can be grazed, abandoned, or destroyed. Producers should timely file a Notice of Loss for failed acres on all crops including grasses.

Please contact the local county FSA office to schedule an appointment to file a Notice of Loss for either prevented planting of failed acreage claims. To find your local FSA office visit http://offices.usda.gov.



National Pork Board Defines Antibiotics Stewardship Plan, Elects New Officers

The National Pork Board has announced a stewardship plan to guide and support the responsible use of antibiotics for the U.S. pork industry. The newly defined position statement and governing policy was approved at the board’s June meeting and announced through a news conference at World Pork Expo.

Following unanimous approval, the Pork Board updated its position and policy statement that “embraces responsible antibiotic use in pork production” and pledges to “emphasize these values in its revised Pork Quality Assurance® Plus (PQA Plus®) producer certification and training programs” in the year ahead. Additionally, the National Pork Board intends to allocate up to $1.4 million in funding of scientific research and antibiotic risk assessment studies, producer education and consumer awareness programs.

“We understand the critically important role antibiotics play in both human medicine and in livestock production and know that consumers are keenly interested in how their food is produced,” said Chris Hodges, chief executive officer of the National Pork Board. “This stewardship plan will shape our industry’s approach to antibiotics, finding ways for our pig farmers to improve animal health with and without antibiotics.”

In other action, Derrick Sleezer, a pork producer from Cherokee, Iowa, was elected as president of the National Pork Board. Sleezer is serving his second three-year term on the National Pork Board and just concluded two years as the board’s treasurer.

“First and foremost, I am proud to be an American pig farmer and to serve my industry in leading the Pork Checkoff in the year ahead,” Sleezer said. “There is great consumer interest in agriculture and in understanding how food is grown, raised and marketed. I see much opportunity in the year ahead as we help shape that story.”

Serving with Sleezer as vice president is Jan Archer, a pork producer from Goldsboro, North Carolina. Terry O’Neel, a producer from Friend, Nebraska, was elected treasurer. The three executive officers will serve one-year terms in their positions beginning June 3. Outgoing president Dale Norton, a producer from Bronson, Michigan, will serve in a non-voting role as immediate past president.

“As we look ahead to the next five years, the Pork Checkoff is prepared to meet the challenges facing our industry,” Sleezer said. “Guided by the strategic plan, we have a sharp focus on building consumer trust, driving sustainable production and growing consumer demand for U.S. pork.”

Derrick Sleezer is an owner and employee of Sleezer, Inc., a farrow-to-finish, farrow-to-wean and farrow-to-feeder operation that has 700 sows and markets 15,000 hogs annually. The operation includes 2,000 acres of corn and soybeans. He also works for Kerber Companies in product design/implementation, safety and compliance. Sleezer chairs the Finance Committee, and serves on the Animal Welfare and Trade committees and represents the Pork Board on the U.S. Pork Center of Excellence board. He is a member of the 2010 Pork Leadership Academy and an avid Operation Main Street speaker who has given more than 40 presentations.

Jan Archer is an owner of Archer Farms LLC. The farrow-to-wean operation has 1,200 sows and produces about 31,000 weaned pigs annually. Archer also raises corn, soybeans and hay on 120 acres and operates Archer Consulting, an enterprise that provides personnel training to the pork industry, including PQA Plus, Youth PQA Plus® and Transport Quality Assurance® certifications for producers and allied industries. Archer serves on the National Pork Board Finance Committee and is a member of the Domestic Marketing and Producer and State Services committees. She is a member of the 2007 Pork Leadership Academy class and an Operation Main Street speaker. She serves on the executive committee of the North Carolina Pork Council and the North Carolina 4-H Development Board.

Terry O’Neel is the owner and manager of O’Neel Farm, a farrow-to-finish operation with 500 sows that markets 10,000 hogs annually. He also raises corn and soybeans on 700 acres. O’Neel is a member of both the National Pork Board Finance and Administrative committees and also serves on the Domestic Marketing and Pork Safety, Quality and Human Nutrition committees. He is an Operation Main Street speaker. O’Neel served as president of the Nebraska Pork Producers Association in 2007 and was an officer and director from 2001 to 2009.



U.S. Pig Farmers Intensify Efforts on Antibiotic Stewardship

Through its continued commitment to build consumer trust in U.S. pork, the National Pork Board announced a new antibiotic stewardship plan. The most notable change will be updating its industry-leading Pork Quality Assurance® Plus (PQA Plus®) farmer certification program and increasing investments in research and education by more than $1 million in 2016 alone. These efforts will promote sustainable farming practices focused on responsible antibiotic use that will protect the health and well-being of people, pigs and the planet.

“Today’s consumers are focused on their food and the role antibiotics play in meat production,” said National Pork Board CEO Chris Hodges. “By the end of 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration will implement a new policy aimed at on-farm antibiotic use in food-animal production. The goal is to eliminate on-farm use of medically important — to human illness — antibiotics for growth promotion and to bring therapeutic use to treat, control or prevent specific disease under veterinary oversight. U.S. pig farmers will adapt to this change because of their ongoing commitment to responsible antibiotic use at the farm level to produce safe, wholesome pork in a socially responsible way.”

According to Hodges, collaboration will continue to play a pivotal role in moving forward in antibiotic stewardship. Aside from long-standing cooperation between the National Pork Board, the National Pork Producers Council and the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, he pointed to the recent engagement with the White House on this issue. The Executive Office of the President recently highlighted the National Pork Board as one the nation’s leading agricultural organizations managing research efforts in antibiotics and resistance. Hodges said that the organization is working with the White House on obtaining additional funding for research to add to the more than $5.3 million in Checkoff-funded research that’s been conducted on antimicrobial resistance and alternatives since 2000.

”Producers need antibiotics to treat sick pigs or prevent illness. It is unethical to withhold treatment,” said Jennifer Koeman, director of producer and public health for the National Pork Board. “Over the years, pig farmers have done a great job of working with their veterinarians on using animal health tools such as antibiotics.

Koeman added that the new rules coming from the Food and Drug Administration’s 209, 213 and veterinary feed directive (VFD) in December 2016, will change the requirements needed to use certain antibiotics and will more directly involve veterinary oversight. Under the new FDA rules, producers will need a VFD to gain access to the affected feed-based antibiotics and a prescription for water-based antibiotics. Although a change for the industry, Koeman noted, it also provides a great opportunity for farmers to work with their veterinarians to revisit all herd health practices with the goal of decreasing disease, enhancing performance and producing a safe, wholesome product for the global market.

“We realize that producers will face a substantial change in how they use antibiotics with the impending policy rule changes, but they can feel good in knowing that they are already doing much of what they need to do to be successful,” Koeman said. “If farmers continue to work with their veterinarians, talk with their feed suppliers, diligently keep records associated with VFDs and prescription antibiotic use and retain current PQA Plus® certification, they will be well prepared to be in full compliance.”

The Pork Checkoff’s PQA Plus certification program continues to provide a firm foundation for on-farm antibiotic use, together with its animal well-being and food safety components. According to the National Pork Board’s latest statistics, more than 60,000 producers have completed the PQA Plus on-farm education and certification program. All of the major packers require producers to participate in the program before they will purchase their market hogs. The 2016 revision of the PQA Plus program also will emphasize antibiotic stewardship and stress the importance of the veterinarian-client-patient relationship in deciding when to use antibiotics.

“Pork producers are innovative and accustomed to making changes to their operations, adapting and moving ahead,” said Brad Greenway, a pork producer from Mitchell, South Dakota, and National Pork Board’s immediate past vice president. “We realize that growth promotion use of medically important antibiotics will go away and there will be changes in both feed and water medication for farms of all sizes. However, our industry is well positioned to move forward.”

To help producers fully prepare for the changes to come, the National Pork Board is asking them all to strengthen their relationships now with their swine veterinarians. Meanwhile, Pork Checkoff staff will focus on research, education and collaboration on antibiotic issues.

“Just yesterday, Dr. Paul Sundberg, our vice president of science and technology, along with Dr. Koeman, attended the Antibiotics Stewardship Forum at the White House in Washington, D.C.,” Greenway said. “It’s participating in this kind of opportunity on behalf of America’s pork producers that informs government officials and others of the U.S. pork industry’s long-standing commitment to the responsible antibiotic use for the protection of animal health and well-being, as well as for public health.”

Besides plans to invest additional funds in antibiotic-related research in 2016, the National Pork Board will identify specific risk assessments to better understand the relationship between antimicrobial use in pork production and bacterial resistance. The Pork Checkoff also is working on creating a blue-ribbon panel of experts to specifically focus on antibiotic use and resistance. All of these initiatives will lead to additional educational materials that focus on antibiotics for producers, academia and the swine veterinarian community.

“The pork industry always has been proactive, and pork producers have a long history of using antibiotics properly,” Greenway said. “Still, there’s always room for improvement. All producers need to strive to keep getting better — something we are very familiar with doing.”



National Drought Summary for Jun 2, 2015

A series of cold fronts moving southeastward out of the Canadian Prairies brought additional moderate to heavy (more than 2 inches) rains to the water-logged southern and central Plains, including most of Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas, along with beneficial moisture to the northern Plains and Midwest, early in the period. Based upon estimated monthly state rainfall totals, May 2015 was the wettest month ever in Texas (8.81 inches) and Oklahoma (14.27 inches), incredibly ending the region’s long-term drought within 4-6 weeks (but causing widespread flooding). Over the weekend as a strong cold front finally pushed eastward, the southern half of the Plains finally cleared out while much of the Southeast, mid-Atlantic, and New England reported welcome showers and thunderstorms which ended the unseasonable warmth and eased short-term dryness. Dry conditions and increasing temperatures returned to the Southwest after an unseasonably cool and wet May that led to unexpected green-up of ranges and pastures in parts of southern and eastern California, Nevada, and western Arizona but did nothing to ease the long-term drought, and most-likely added extra fuel for late summer and early fall wildfires once the vegetation dies off. Light showers were enough to keep the Pacific Northwest at status-quo, while a very warm and record dry May (after a wet April), along with little to no spring snowpack, was enough to expand D0 along the southeastern Panhandle of Alaska. Continued subnormal rains across eastern Puerto Rico and low stream flows justified expansion of D0 and D1, and the addition of D2.

Great Plains
The incredible southern Plains drought relief continued this week, although the weekly rainfall amounts “decreased” from copious to heavy, and clear skies finally prevailed later in the period. Still, more than 2 inches of rain fell on parts of the Dakotas, western Nebraska, western and eastern Kansas, eastern Oklahoma, and most of Texas except for the Panhandle and southwest. The week’s heaviest rains fell around the Dallas-Ft. Worth region, with locally up to 8 inches. Based upon estimated monthly state averages, May 2015 was the wettest month ever for Texas (8.81 inches) and Oklahoma (14.27 inches), breaking both the former state monthly records by several inches. This has alleviated long-term drought within 4-6 weeks, but unfortunately produced widespread severe flooding. Monitored Texas water supply reservoirs were 83.4% full on June 3, whereas 6-months ago they were at 62.5% full. A few reservoirs in the Panhandle and west-central Texas were still below normal (where D0 and one small D1 area was kept), but nearly every reservoir in the eastern half of the state was close to capacity. With the continued moisture, decreasing or eliminated long-term deficits, and increasing short-term surpluses, 1-category improvements were made across much of Texas, Oklahoma, western and southern Kansas, southeastern Colorado, eastern South Dakota, and northeastern and southwestern North Dakota. Where lighter rains fell (north-central Oklahoma, south-central Kansas, eastern Nebraska, and south-central South Dakota), conditions were maintained. D0 was slightly expanded in northwestern North Dakota (Mountrail County) where long-term dryness still lingered.

Midwest and Great Lakes Region
Another week of widespread moderate to heavy showers and thunderstorms provided a fitting end to a wet May in the Midwest. More than 1.5 inches of rain fell on northwestern and southern Minnesota, northern Iowa, central Missouri, most of Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, and the northern halves of Indiana and Ohio, allowing for a 1-category improvement across much of the region. The rains effectively eliminated abnormal dryness (D0) in most of Wisconsin, southern Minnesota, Michigan, northern Indiana and Ohio, and central Missouri, and D1 was improved to D0 in northwestern and east-central Minnesota, and in central Wisconsin. Where the weekly totals were lower (less than 1 inch) or short-term deficits initially greater, D0 and D1 remained, and this included northern Minnesota, west-central Illinois, northern and southeastern Indiana, and south-central lower Michigan. Overall Midwest major crop progress (planting and emergence) were close to the 5-year average, and crop and pasture conditions were generally favorable.



Tyson Recalls Beef Due to Possible E. Coli O157:H7

Tyson Fresh Meats, a Dakota City, Neb., establishment, is recalling approximately 16,000 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with E. coli O157:H7, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The ground beef items were produced on May 16, 2015. The following products are subject to recall: 5 lb. chubs of "80% Lean Ground Beef."

The products subject to recall bear the establishment number "EST. 245C" inside the USDA mark of inspection and a "best before or freeze by" date of June 5, 2015. These products were shipped to one distribution location in New York.

FSIS discovered the problem during a routine sampling program. Neither FSIS nor the company received any reports of illnesses associated with consumption of this product. FSIS and the company are concerned that some product may have been sold and stored in consumers' refrigerators or freezers.

E. coli O157:H7 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause dehydration, bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramps 2--8 days (3--4 days, on average) after exposure the organism. While most people recover within a week, some develop a type of kidney failure called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). This condition can occur among persons of any age but is most common in children under 5-years old and older adults. It is marked by easy bruising, pallor, and decreased urine output. Persons who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.

FSIS advises all consumers to safely prepare their raw meat products, including fresh and frozen, and only consume product that has been cooked to a temperature of 160° F. The only way to confirm that ground beef is cooked to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria is to use a food thermometer that measures internal temperature, http://1.usa.gov/1cDxcDQ.

Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov or via smartphone at m.askkaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. The online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at: www.fsis.usda.gov/reportproblem.



April Pork Export Volume Rebounds; Beef Export Value Still Climbing

April exports of U.S. pork reached the largest monthly volume in more than a year, while U.S. beef exports remained on a record value pace through April, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

Pork exports totaled 200,125 metric tons (mt) in April, up 4 percent year-over-year and the largest since March 2014. Export value ($512.1 million) was down 14 percent, reflecting lower pork prices. Through the first four months of 2015, pork exports were down 7 percent in volume (726,102 mt) and 14 percent in value ($1.93 billion) from the same period last year.

Beef exports moved seasonally higher in April to 92,263 mt, the largest monthly volume since December 2014 but still down 7 percent year-over-year. Beef export value ($555.3 million) was also the highest since December and up 3 percent year-over-year. From January through April, beef exports totaled 341,927 mt, down 9 percent from the same period in 2014. But export value was still 4 percent ahead of last year’s record pace at $2.12 billion.

“Exports are still recovering from a slow start to the year, but the April results confirm that the U.S. industry is regaining global momentum,” said USMEF President and CEO Philip Seng. “April was really the first time this year that we saw relief from the West Coast port situation – not that shipping traffic was completely back to normal, but the worst of the congestion was clearly behind us. And despite the U.S. dollar continuing to be very strong relative to the currencies of most key customers and competitors, demand for U.S. meat is holding up well.”

Seng cautioned, however, that the strong dollar leaves the U.S. industry in a vulnerable position when competitors gain tariff advantages in key markets.

“Australian beef is enjoying its second round of tariff rate reductions in Japan, and the projected slowdown in Australia’s beef production has not materialized,” he said. “A similar situation may develop with regard to European pork, as the EU and Japan have pledged to complete their trade agreement negotiations by the end of this year. There are a number of FTA negotiations that bear watching, because they have the potential to further shake up the competitive landscape.”

Rebound in pork export volume led by Mexico, Korea
Mexico is once again the pacesetter for U.S. pork exports, with January-April volume up 8 percent year-over-year to 237,998 mt. Export value to Mexico slipped 13 percent, however, to $413.6 million, reflecting lower prices for hams, picnics and other key items. Exports to South Korea bucked the global trend by increasing even more in value ($241.8 million, up 45 percent) than in volume (79,401 mt, up 39 percent).

Other January-April highlights for U.S. pork include:
    Japan remains the leading value market for U.S. pork, despite an 18 percent drop in value to $552.4 million. Export volume to Japan was down 11 percent to $149.8 million. April exports to Japan were the largest in 12 months at 45,297 mt, but were still down 5 percent from a year ago.

    Having only a small number of plants approved for export to China continues to inhibit exports to the China/Hong Kong region, with exports down 30 percent in volume (99,184 mt) and 32 percent in value ($214.2 million). Exports regained some momentum in April, however, exceeding year-ago levels for the first time in 13 months, reflecting growth to Hong Kong.

    The Dominican Republic and Guatemala continue to be strong performers for U.S. pork in 2015. Exports to the Dominican Republic were up 32 percent in volume (8,398 mt) and 16 percent in value ($19.4 million), while totals for Guatemala were up 19 percent (to 4,597 mt) and 16 percent ($13.1 million), respectively.

    Though January-April totals were still down 25 percent year-over-year, exports to Oceania rebounded impressively in April as combined shipments to Australia and New Zealand reached 7,492 mt – the highest monthly volume in nearly three years.

Through the first four months of the year, pork exports equated to 24.5 percent of total production and 20.5 percent of muscle cut production – down from 28 percent and 23 percent, respectively, during the same period last year. Pork export value per head slaughtered averaged $50.35, down 19 percent from a year ago and 4.5 percent lower than in 2013.

Strong demand in Asia keeps beef export value on record pace
January-April beef exports to Japan increased year-over-year in both volume (70,972 mt, up 5 percent) and value ($457.7 million, up 8 percent). The same was true for Korea, where exports increased 4 percent in volume (38,828 mt) and 8 percent in value ($277.2 million). April was an especially strong month for exports to Korea, where U.S. beef has gained increasing popularity in the retail sector.

“U.S. beef has traditionally enjoyed a great deal of success in Korea’s restaurant sector,” Seng explained. “Over the past year, we have placed an increased emphasis on beef promotions in Korea’s supermarkets and hypermarkets, and the results have been outstanding.”

Other January-April highlights for U.S. beef include:
    Despite a weakened peso, demand for U.S. beef has held up well in Mexico. Though down 3 percent year-over-year, export volume (73,802 mt) was still the largest of any international market, reflecting strong growth in variety meat. Exports increased 2 percent in value to $365.9 million, ranking second behind Japan.

    Exports to Taiwan rebounded in April after slumping the previous month. While January-April volume (8,969 mt) remained down 6 percent year-over-year, value increased 13 percent to $88 million.

    Similar to pork, the Dominican Republic and Guatemala have been top performers in Latin America. Exports to the Dominican Republic jumped 37 percent in volume (2,522 mt) and 27 percent in value ($19.2 million), while exports to Guatemala were up 24 percent (1,522 mt) and 28 percent ($9 million), respectively.

    Results have been impressive for the two leading markets in the ASEAN region. Exports to the Philippines were up 7 percent in volume to 5,068 mt, but jumped 41 percent in value to $29 million. Exports to Vietnam were 36 percent higher in volume (1,148 mt) and surged 87 percent in value to $9.9 million.

January-April beef exports equated to 13 percent of total beef production and 10 percent for muscle cuts only – down slightly from last year. Export value per head of fed slaughter averaged $292, up 10 percent from a year ago.

April lamb exports down sharply
April exports of U.S. lamb were the lowest of the year in both volume (507 mt) and value ($1.23 million). Through April, 2015 exports were down 22 percent in volume (2,778 mt) and 26 percent in value ($6.6 million) from a year ago, as growth to the Middle East and Caribbean could not offset sharp declines in Canada and Mexico.



NO NEW CASES OF HPAI IN IOWA TODAY

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship said there are no new probable cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) today.  Depopulation and disposal of birds from previously announced sites is ongoing.

USDA has taken the lead in working with the owners of affected sites to ensure the safe and humane euthanasia of birds.  USDA has more than 1700 staff and contractors helping respond to the avian influenza situation in Iowa.

Depopulation should be complete today on all previously announced turkey sites.  All of those birds will be composted on site.

As of June 3, 24.1 million of the 27.7 million commercial layers and pullets have been euthanized.  Disposal is ongoing using composting, on-site burial, incineration and landfills.  A large incinerator at Cherokee landfill is currently operational and processing approximately seven loads a day in the start-up phase.  Adjustments are being made to increase capacity.  Bio-secure waste containers from affected sites are also being moved to landfills in Mills and Sioux counties.  Additional trucks are being added to the operation.



Soy Growers Support Extension of Tax Provision to Stimulate Economy, Jobs

The American Soybean Association (ASA) signed a letter in support of continuation of the 50 percent bonus depreciation tax provision.

The group letter was initiated by the National Association of Manufacturers. The provision was extended several times as part of the tax extenders package and, like the other temporary provisions, it expired again on Dec. 31, 2014. Rep. Pat Tiberi (R-OH) introduced a bill, HR 2510, to make the 50 percent bonus depreciation a permanent part of the tax code.

The letter signed by ASA supports House action on the Tiberi legislation to permanently extend bonus depreciation, creating a pro-investment tax climate that spurs economic growth and jobs, and provide a bridge to broader tax reform.



Soy Growers Call on Congress to Scrap Clean Water Rule

The American Soybean Association (ASA) is calling on lawmakers to take legislative action to prevent the measure from taking effect. ASA specifically cites the nexus test—language in the rule that EPA says it will now use to determine the level to which a smaller body of water connects to a larger one for the purposes of establishing jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act—as exceeding both the intent of Congress and the rulings of the Supreme Court. ASA First Vice President Richard Wilkins, who farms in Greenwood, Del., noted that EPA is erroneously using a minority opinion from the Supreme Court to expand its jurisdiction.

“The proposed rule wrongly applies the nexus test to waters nationwide by placing jurisdiction over any water that may have a nexus to waters covered under the Clean Water Act,” said Wilkins. “While EPA has said that the rule creates no additional requirements with regard to normal farming practices, it is the broad nature of the nexus test that leaves enough open to interpretation that it could be argued the rule eventually applies to unlimited bodies of water, no matter their size or actual connectivity to waters already under jurisdiction. Also, in making its decision, EPA has adopted only a minority opinion of the Supreme Court and one that has been considered by only a minority of federal circuit courts.”

Wilkins added that it is the end goal of certainty for farmers that has been at the core of ASA’s effort on this issue, and in the absence of that certainty, Congress should step in and block the rule.

“The Clean Water Rule—and before it the Waters of the U.S. rule—was meant to establish certainty by spelling out exactly which types of water are and are not covered by the Clean Water Act. That is a productive goal, and one we fully support, but unfortunately the way the nexus test is applied in this most recent rule it creates far more uncertainty and risk,” Wilkins said. “At this point, the only constructive course of action is for the House and the Senate to step in and prevent this rule from going forward.”



Ministers Ritz and Fast Stand Firm with Canadian Industry Against U.S. Country of Origin Labelling

Today, Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and International Trade Minister Ed Fast, alongside Canadian cattle and hog producers in Ottawa, reaffirmed Canada’s longstanding position that the United States (U.S.) must repeal its protectionist and harmful COOL policy or face retaliatory measures. The Ministers were joined by Canadian Cattlemen’s Association President Dave Solverson and Canadian Pork Council Chair Rick Bergmann.

Yesterday, the World Trade Organization (WTO) Appellate Body handed down a fourth and final ruling, reaffirming Canada’s position that these measures are discriminatory against Canadian cattle and hogs.

The United States has used and exhausted all possible means to avoid their international obligations, damaging our highly integrated North American supply chain, hurting producers and processors on both sides of the border.

In response to the latest WTO decision, and in accordance with international trade rules, Canada will seek WTO authorization to retaliate against U.S. exports.

Our government stands on the side of Canadian farmers and ranchers, and we will continue to stand up for all hardworking Canadians.



Canada Move to Retaliate Shows COOL Reform Needed Now

The following is a statement from Chip Bowling, Maryland farmer and president of the National Corn Growers Association, in response to the announcement by Canada that it will seek retaliation against the United States for country-of-origin labeling violations.

"Ag trade is a vital part of the U.S. economy. Retaliation by Canada will have a significant impact on American farmers and ranchers, threatening rural economies as well as our relationship with one of America's greatest allies and trading partners. We urge Congress to quickly pass legislation to ensure the United States is in compliance with World Trade Organization obligations in regards to country-of-origin labeling."

For more information, visit the COOL Reform Coalition at www.coolreform.com.



WTO Affirms U.S. Trade Enforcement Win for American Farmers

United States Trade Representative Michael Froman announced today that the World Trade Organization (WTO) Appellate Body has agreed with a previous panel report, handing the United States a major victory in a dispute challenging India’s ban on various U.S. agricultural products.  India’s ban on products such as poultry meat, eggs, and live pigs was allegedly maintained to protect India against avian influenza.  The WTO panel and Appellate Body overwhelmingly agreed with U.S. claims that, for example, India’s ban is not based on international standards or a risk assessment, India discriminates against U.S. products in favor of Indian products, India’s measures are more trade restrictive than necessary because it is safe to import U.S. products meeting international standards, and India’s restrictions are not adapted to the characteristics of U.S. exporting regions.

This victory will help address barriers to the Indian market for U.S. farmers, including those in the U.S. poultry industry in particular, and also signals to other WTO Members that they must ensure that any avian influenza restrictions they impose are grounded in science, such as by taking into account the limited geographic impact from outbreaks, and are not simply a disguise for protectionism. 

“I welcome this win, which will help us eliminate unjustified trade barriers so U.S. farmers can sell high quality U.S. agricultural products to customers around the world,” said U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman.  “The Administration is fully committed to enforcing U.S. rights to ensure Americans benefit from all the opportunities the United States has negotiated under our trade agreements.  This enforcement action, and everything we do at USTR, is guided by our commitment to supporting American jobs, strengthening the middle class, and giving Americans a fair shot to compete and win in today’s global economy.”

“This decision affirms the importance of basing agricultural trade requirements on sound science,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. “This is a major win for U.S. agriculture and, in particular, the U.S poultry industry.  Today, America's poultry producers are being challenged again by an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza, and this decision serves to encourage USDA's efforts to maintain open markets for U.S. poultry based on international standards. A rules-based international trading system is critical to allow U.S. farmers and ranchers to compete on a level playing field worldwide.”

This enforcement win is further validation of the Administration’s strong record enforcing U.S. rights under our trade agreements.  Recent WTO victories include:

    In June 2014, the WTO found that China breached WTO rules by imposing unjustified extra duties on American cars and SUVs.  In 2013, an estimated $5.1 billion of U.S. auto exports were covered by those duties.
    
    In August 2014, the WTO found that China breached WTO rules by imposing duties and quotas on exports of rare earths, tungsten, and molybdenum.  Those export restraints promote China’s own industry and discriminate against U.S. companies using those materials, which are key inputs by critical American manufacturing sectors, including hybrid car batteries, wind turbines, energy-efficient lighting, steel, advanced electronics, automobiles, petroleum, and chemicals.
    
    In January of this year, the WTO found that Argentina’s import licensing requirements and other import restrictions breach international trade rules.  These restrictions potentially affect billions of dollars in U.S. exports each year, including exports of energy products, electronics and machinery, aerospace equipment, pharmaceuticals, precision instruments, medical devices, motor vehicle parts, and agricultural products.

Since 2009, this Administration has brought 19 enforcement actions in the WTO, and won every single one decided thus far.



 NMPF Works with Congress and IDFA to Reverse Decline in School Milk Consumption
As Congress prepares to review and reenact federal child nutrition programs, NMPF has worked in concert with the International Dairy Foods Association and two House members to craft legislation aimed at reversing the decline in school milk consumption.

The bipartisan School Milk Nutrition Act of 2015, introduced in mid-May by Representatives G.T. Thompson (R-PA) and Joe Courtney (D-CT), reaffirms the long-standing requirement that milk is offered with each school meal. It attacks declining milk consumption with research and a pilot program increasing the variety and availability of milk in schools.

NMPF and IDFA want Congress to consider the Thompson-Courtney bill in the child nutrition reauthorization process. Legal authority to operate the programs expires in September.

“Although milk provides multiple health benefits and is the number one source of nine essential nutrients in the diets of young Americans, many children are not consuming the recommended three servings of milk or other dairy foods a day,” said NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “In addition, from 2012 to 2014, schools served 187 million fewer half-pints of milk, while total public school enrollment grew.”

Much of that decline, in NMPF’s view, is the result of a decision by USDA to limit flavored milk servings in schools to nonfat-only. NMPF had urged USDA to include lowfat along with nonfat flavored milk, consistent with the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, because of concern that many children do not like nonfat milk. NMPF warned USDA that milk consumption in schools would likely decline if flavored milk servings were limited to nonfat-only. “The net result of this misguided approach has been fewer beneficial nutrients consumed by schoolchildren who aren’t drinking as much milk,” Mulhern said.

In a related development, the National Dairy Council issued a report in May highlighting the history and nutritional importance of school milk. Fluid Milk in School Meal Programs identifies declining school milk consumption as a concern and notes that it is difficult to replace the nutrients in milk without adding extra calories and cost.



CWT Helped Keep Member Dairy Cooperatives Competitive in World Markets in May

Cooperatives Working Together continued in May to help keep its member cooperatives competitive in world markets, as they contracted to sell 18.1 million pounds dairy products to customers in 10 countries on four continents. The products included 5.7 million pounds of American-type cheese, 2.2 million pounds of butter, and 10.2 million pounds of whole milk powder.

These 30 sales contracts bring the year to date 2015 CWT totals to 35.1 million pounds of cheese, 26.6 million pounds of butter, and 20.1 million pounds of whole milk powder. Together, these transactions will export the equivalent of 1.07 billion pounds of milk, on a milkfat basis, to customers in 28 countries on five continents.

Developed by NMPF, CWT is a voluntary export assistance program supported by dairy farmers producing 70 percent of the nation’s milk. By helping to move U.S. dairy products into world markets, CWT helps keep maintain and grow U.S dairy farmers share of these expanding markets which, in turn, keeps dairy farmer milk prices at reasonable levels.



NAWG Applauds NPDES Fix Legislation
Yesterday Senators Crapo (R-ID) and McCaskill (D-MO) reintroduced legislation to end the need for a National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit for certain pesticide applications.

“NAWG applauds the introduction of this legislation that would bring regulatory clarity on pesticide applications and we urge the Senate to pass the bill,” said NAWG President, Brett Blankenship, wheat grower from Washtucna, Wash. “Growers are stewards of the land. Farmers are the original environmentalists. We follow application guidelines established by the EPA when applying any crop protection product to our field.”

Pesticide applications are regulated by the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) with restrictions listed on the FIFRA approved label. Since 2011 an additional Clean Water Act NPDES permit has been required for certain pesticide applications. Those found out of compliance could be subject to daily fines. The legislation introduced this week would eliminate the need for the Clean Water Act permit, but retain the FIFRA regulation and any appropriate use restrictions on the label.

Senators co-sponsoring the legislation are Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), John Boozman (R-AK), Tom Carper (D-DE), Chris Coons (D-DE), Joe Donnelly (D-IN), Mike Enzi (R-WY), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), Jim Inhofe (R-OK) Jerry Moran (R-KS), Pat Roberts (R-KS) and Thom Tillis (R-NC).



BASF Mulls Potential Bid for Syngenta
German chemicals group BASF SE is considering a potential offer for Syngenta AG, its Swiss rival which has received a $45 billion takeover offer from Monsanto Co., people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday.

Reuters reports that BASF is speaking to investment bankers about the possibility of an offer for Syngenta, though it has made no decision and no bid may materialize, the people said, asking not to be identified because the deliberations are confidential.

Syngenta has so far spurned Monsanto's overtures citing antitrust hurdles, though lawyers representing the two companies met last week in New York to discuss whether the regulatory obstacles can be overcome, a separate source said. A BASF bid for Syngenta would also likely face significant antitrust issues.

BASF, Syngenta and Monsanto declined to comment.

BASF, the world's largest chemicals group by sales, is also developing improved plant characteristics such as drought tolerability but relies on partners, the biggest being Monsanto, to bring finished seed products to market. Other partners of BASF’s plant biotechnology business, which does not disclose sales, include Bayer AG and Cargill Inc.

BASF's crop chemicals division with 5.4 billion Euros in 2014 sales, commands about 11 percent of the global crop chemicals market, in third place after Syngenta and Bayer. Any tie-up with the Swiss group would be expected to trigger considerable antitrust related asset sales.



Culver's, FFA 'Thank You, Farmers' Campaign Enters Third Year

The Wisconsin-based Culver's restaurant chain has just wrapped up its second year of a promotional campaign called 'Thank You, Farmers' which aims to educate its customers about where their food comes from while raising money for the National FFA Foundation.

Participating Culver's restaurants across the nation have been pledging their support to farm families through 'percent of sales nights,' a Scoopie Token and guest donation program and event sponsorships to benefit local FFA chapters. So far, the company has raised nearly a half-million dollars for the National FFA Organization, Foundation, local chapters and a verity of other local agricultural organizations.

"Our commitment to today's farm families and the future of the next generation is crucial to ensure we continue to serve the delicious food our guests love," says David Stidham, vice president of marketing at Culver's. "It's exciting to see our guests share this enthusiasm and join us in showing gratitude to farmers through this program."

Meanwhile, Culver's will be adding even more activities to this year's promotion. The company is working with the Peterson Farm Bros, the Kansas farmers and YouTube sensations dedicated to educating their fans and correcting misperceptions about modern-day farming and agriculture. Together, Culver's and Greg, Nathan, Kendal and Laura Peterson created their latest video, "Takin' Care of Livestock'.

Younger guests are once again invited to share their farmer-themed masterpieces for a chance to be featured in the 2016 Calendar.

And FFA members are invited to answer an essay question in 1,000 words or less for the chance to win $10,000 to fund their chapter's trip to the 2015 National FFA Convention.