Tuesday January 12 Ag News

NEBRASKA 2015 CROP PRODUCTION SUMMARY

Corn for grain production in Nebraska based on year-end surveys is estimated at a record high 1.69 billion bushels, up 6 percent from 2014, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Yield of 185 bushels per acre is up 6 bushels from last year and the previous record set in 2009 and 2014. Farmers harvested 9.15 million acres of corn for grain, up 2 percent from 2014.

Soybean production for 2015 totaled a record high 306 million bushels, up 6 percent from 2014. Yield, at 58.0 bushels per acre, is a record high and up 4.0 bushels from a year earlier. Area for harvest, at 5.27 million acres, is down 1 percent from 2014.

Sorghum for grain production in 2015 is estimated at 23.0 million bushels, up 76 percent from 2014. Yield, at 96 bushels per acre, equals the previous high set in 2011 and is up 14 bushels from a year earlier. Area harvested for grain, at 240,000 acres, is up 50 percent from 2014.

Alfalfa production for 2015 of 3.40 million tons is virtually unchanged from a year earlier. Yield, at 4.00 tons per acre, is down 0.10 ton per acre from last year. Area harvested for dry hay, at 850,000 acres, is up 2 percent from 2014. Seedings of alfalfa during 2015 totaled 140,000 acres, down 13 percent from the year earlier. All other hay production, at 2.96 million tons, is up 13 percent from 2014. The record yield, at 1.60 tons per acre, is up 0.10 ton per acre from last year. Area harvested of other dry hay is 1.85 million acres, up 6 percent from a year ago. Total forage production from alfalfa and other hay is 6.48 million tons in 2015, up 5 percent from the previous year.

Proso millet production in 2015 is estimated at 3.30 million bushels, up 2 percent from last year’s production. Yield, at a record high 34 bushels per acre, is up 5 bushels from a year earlier. Area harvested for grain, at 97,000 acres, is down 13 percent from 2014.

Oil sunflower production in 2015 is 42.7 million pounds, up 47 percent from last year. Yield, at 1,580 pounds per acre equals the record high and is up 420 pounds from a year earlier. Area harvested, at 27,000 acres, is up 8 percent from 2014. Non-oil sunflower production of 36.8 million pounds, is double that of last year. Yield, at 2,100 pounds per acre, is up 350 pounds from a year earlier and is the highest on record. Area harvested, at 17,500 acres, is up 67 percent from 2014.

Sugarbeet production of 1.33 million tons is down 1 percent from 2014. Yield, at 28.4 tons per acre, is down 0.7 ton from a year earlier. Area harvested, at 46,800 acres, is 2 percent more than 2014.
Dry edible bean production of 3.12 million hundredweight, is down 20 percent from a year ago. Yield, at 2,380 pounds per acre, is down 120 pounds from a year earlier. Area harvested, at 131,000 acres, is down 16 percent from 2014.

Potato production is 6.87 million hundredweight, down 13 percent from last year. Yield, at 435 hundredweight per acre, is down 35 hundredweight from last year. Area harvested, at 15,800 acres, is down 1,100 acres from 2014.



NEBRASKA DECEMBER 1, 2015 GRAIN STOCKS

Nebraska corn stocks in all positions on December 1, 2015 totaled 1.39 billion bushels, up 8 percent from 2014, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Of the total, 820 million bushels are stored on farms, up 4 percent from a year ago. Off-farm stocks, at 569 million bushels, are up 12 percent from last year and is a record high.

Soybeans stored in all positions totaled 214 million bushels, up 3 percent from last year. On-farm stocks of 70.0 million bushels are 8 percent above last year, and off-farm stocks, at 144 million bushels, are the same as 2014.

Wheat stored in all positions totaled 52.1 million bushels, up 17 percent from a year ago. On-farm stocks of 5.10 million bushels are up 42 percent from last year, and off-farm stocks of 47.0 million bushels are up 14 percent from last year.

Sorghum stored in all positions totaled 15.6 million bushels, up 65 percent from 2014. On-farm stocks of 3.60 million are up 64 percent while off farm holdings of 12.0 million are up 66 percent from last year.
On-farm oats totaled 1.05 million bushels, up 31 percent from 2014.

Hay stocks on Nebraska farms totaled 5.1 million tons, up 11 percent from last year.

Grain storage capacity totaled 2.11 billion bushels, up 32 million from last year. The total is comprised of 1.18 billion bushels of on-farm storage, unchanged from last year, and 929 million bushels of off-farm storage, up 32 million bushels from last year.



NEBRASKA WINTER WHEAT SEEDINGS

Winter wheat seeded area for harvest in 2016 is estimated at 1.28 million acres, down from last year’s seeded area of 1.49 million acres, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.



IOWA 2015 CROP PRODUCTION

 Corn for grain production in Iowa during 2015 is estimated at 2.51 billion bushels, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service annual Crop Production 2015 Summary report. This record high production is 4 percent above the previous record of 2.41 billion bushels set in 2009. Iowa has led the Nation in corn production for 22 consecutive years and 37 of last 38 years. Iowa's corn for grain yield is estimated at 192 bushels per acre, 6 percent higher than the previous record yield of 181 bushels per acre established in 2004 and tied in 2009. Area harvested for grain is estimated at 13.1 million acres, down 150,000 acres from the November 1 forecast and 250,000 acres below 2014. Corn planted for all purposes in 2015 is estimated at 13.5 million acres, down 100,000 acres from the November 1 estimate and the fewest planted acres since 2010.

Corn for silage production is estimated at 8.16 million tons, up 32 percent from 2014. The silage yield estimate of 24.0 tons per acre is a record high, 2.0 tons per acre higher than the previous record set in 2009. Producers harvested 340,000 acres of corn for silage, up 30,000 acres from 2014.

Soybean production is estimated at 554 million bushels in 2015. This is a record high production, topping the previous record of 525 million bushels set in 2005 by 5 percent. The Iowa soybean crop yielded 56.5 bushels per acre in 2015. This yield is also a new record high, 8 percent above the previous record of 52.5 bushels per acre set in 2005. The harvested acreage of 9.80 million is down 20,000 acres from the November 1 estimate, but 30,000 acres above 2014. Soybean planted acreage, at 9.85 million, is down 50,000 acres from November 1, but is unchanged from 2014.

All hay production for the state is estimated at 3.94 million tons, up 7 percent from the 3.68 million tons produced in 2014 and the highest production since 2009. Producers averaged 3.4 tons per acre, up from 3.2 tons in 2014. All hay harvested acres is estimated at 1.16 million, up 5,000 acres from 2014.

Alfalfa and alfalfa mixtures production is estimated at 3.0 million tons, up 3 percent from 2014. Producers averaged 3.9 tons per acre, up 0.3 ton from 2014. Harvested acres are down 40,000 from last year, to 770,000. Iowa producers seeded 90,000 acres of alfalfa in 2015, down 20,000 acres from 2014 and the lowest seeding since 2011.

Other hay production is estimated at 936,000 tons, up 23 percent from 2014. Producers averaged 2.4 tons per acre, 0.2 ton per acre above the 2014 yield. Harvested acres of other hay, at 390,000, is 13 percent above 2014.



IOWA GRAIN STOCKS

Iowa corn stocks in all positions on December 1, 2015, totaled 2.19 billion bushels, up 7 percent from December 1, 2014, according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Grain Stocks report. Of the total stocks, 63 percent were stored on-farm. The September - November 2015 indicated disappearance totaled 678 million bushels, 16 percent above the 587 million bushels used during the same period last year.

Iowa soybeans stored in all positions on December 1, 2015, totaled 457 million bushels, up 12 percent from the 409 million bushels on hand December 1, 2014. Of the total stocks, 43 percent were stored on-farm. Indicated disappearance for September - November 2015 is 131 million bushels, 17 percent more than the 111 million bushels used during the same quarter last year.

Iowa oats stocks stored on-farm on December 1, 2015, totaled 1.6 million bushels, equal to the stocks on December 1, 2014.

 Iowa on-farm storage capacity on December 1, 2015, was 2.00 billion bushels, unchanged from December 1, 2014, according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Grain Stocks report. Iowa’s 900 off-farm storage facilities have a storage capacity of 1.50 billion bushels, 70 million bushels above the previous year. As of December 1, 2015, Iowa had a total of 3.50 billion bushels of storage capacity, the largest total storage capacity of any State.

 Dry hay stored on Iowa farms as of December 1, 2015, is estimated at 3.28 million tons, an increase of 11 percent from December 2014 according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Crop Production report. Disappearance from May 1, 2015, through December 1, 2015, totaled 1.36 million tons, compared with 1.14 million tons for the same period in 2014.

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Land Application Training Days Offered in February

University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension workshops at nine extension offices across the state in February will provide livestock and crop farmers with information on how to turn manure nutrients into better crop yields while protecting the environment.

Re-certification will be during the first two hours of the day-long Land Application Training. Dates, times and locations include:
Feb. 1 -- 9 a.m., 402 West State Farm Road (Classroom at the Extension Center), North Platte
Feb. 2 -- 9 a.m., 210 East 23rd street (Pinnacle Bank Meeting Room), Columbus
Feb. 3 -- 9 a.m., 210 W. State Street (Library Meeting Room), Atkinson
Feb. 3 -- 9 a.m., 1002 Plum Creek Parkway (Extension Office), Lexington
Feb. 3 -- 9 a.m., 200 Anna Stalp Ave (Nielsen Center – East Mtg Rooms), West Point
Feb. 3 -- 9 a.m., 1115 West Scott St (Extension Office), Beatrice
Feb. 3 -- 9 a.m., 4502 Avenue I (Boardroom at the Extension Center), Scottsbluff
Feb. 4 -- 9 a.m., 86420 US-81 (Jerry’s Hilltop), Randolph
Feb. 5 -- 9 a.m., 804 Howard Ave. (American Legion), St. Paul

Livestock producers with livestock waste control facility permits received or renewed since April 1998 must be certified. A farm must complete an approved training every five years, and farm personnel responsible for land application of manure are also encouraged to attend.

The workshops will help livestock producers put to use the nutrient management planning requirements of Nebraska’s Department of Environmental Quality regulations and increase the economic value of manure, said Leslie Johnson, UNL AMM coordinator. Participants who attend the day-long event will receive NDEQ Land Application Training Certification.

This in-depth, one-day class targets newly permitted livestock operations, but anyone is welcome to attend. Operations that have already attended this initial training, but will need re-certification, may attend the morning portion of the training.

Attendance during the morning of one of the Land Application Training workshops will fulfill NDEQ requirements for re-certification of producers who have completed the initial land application training five or more years ago.

This portion of the workshops will consist of a two-hour program including updates on changing regulations and other manure management topics, such as protecting herd health with biosecurity, pathogens found in manure and the manure value calculator spreadsheet that was released in 2012. Farm staff responsible for implementing the farm’s nutrient plan are also encouraged to attend.

Pre-registration is required for all workshops. A $60 fee per operation (includes one representative) will be charged for the day-long Land Application Training workshops plus a $15 fee for each additional participant to cover local costs including lunch.

The Land Application Training Re-certification portion of the workshop is $30 for each participant.
These workshops are sponsored by the UNL Extension AMM Team which is dedicated to helping livestock and crop producers better utilize our states manure resources for agronomic and environmental benefits.

For additional information on these workshops and other resources for managing manure nutrients, visit http://manure.unl.edu or contact Johnson at 402-584-3818, email ljohnson13@unl.edu.



Speakers Headline Nebraska Dairy Convention February 2

The 2016 Nebraska Dairy Convention on February 2 will bring together dairy farmers and a variety of speakers who can update them on dairy production, promotion and politics. The event, taking place at the Ramada Inn in Columbus, will be headlined by Chris Galen, senior vice president of communications for the National Milk Producers Federation. Galen speaks at the concluding event, a banquet at 6:30 p.m. during which awards are also presented.

Galen is regularly called upon as a national spokesman for the dairy. A graduate of the University of Nebraska, Galen shapes National Milk’s messages on issues such as economic policy, environment, food safety and animal health regulations, and international trade. His previous work includes serving as press secretary to Nebraska Congressman Hal Daub and later for Iowa Congressman Jim Lightfoot. He also worked in the White House Press Office and has experience as a Midwest television anchor and reporter. 

The Convention is sponsored by the Nebraska State Dairy Association and includes a trade show, the annual meetings of both the Nebraska State Dairy Association and the Nebraska Holstein Association, and various educational sessions.

Kicking off the event at 8:30 a.m. is an update on dairy growth and development, followed by the opening of the trade show and the Nebraska Holstein Association annual meeting at 9:30 a.m.

Dr. Jan Shearer, an Iowa State University veterinarian, discusses treatment and control of lameness in dairy cattle at 10:30 a.m., followed by a checkoff update from National Dairy Council’s Mickey Rubin and by Midwest Dairy Council during the noon luncheon.

At 1:30 p.m., Dr. Peter Erickson, New Hampshire state dairy specialist, addresses the topic “Feeding the Pre-weaned Calf.” The Nebraska State Dairy Association’s annual business session follows at 4 p.m.

The trade show closes at 5:30 p.m., with a reception beginning at 5:45 p.m. with the banquet to follow.

The Nebraska Dairy Convention is free to all Nebraska dairy farmers, families and guests. Pre-registrations are due January 25, in order to be included in meals. Attendee and sponsorship registration forms are available at nebraskamilk.org. Questions about the convention can be directed to Rod Johnson, Nebraska State Dairy Association, at 402-261-5482 or rod@nebraskamilk.org. 



Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever Host Nebraska State Habitat Meeting February 13

Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever members and upland supporters in Nebraska will assemble on Saturday, February 13, at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Kearney to celebrate the 25th anniversary Nebraska State Habitat Meeting. The event will feature Pheasants Forever, Quail Forever, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and other partners dedicated to wildlife habitat conservation in the state of Nebraska.

“The State Habitat Meeting continues to be the largest gathering of wildlife professionals, landowners, hunters, and chapter members in Nebraska who share the common goal of providing wildlife habitat in our state,” says Kelsi Wehrman, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever’s state coordinator in Nebraska. “Celebrating the meeting’s 25th anniversary in 2016, we have phenomenal speakers and seminars available to the general public for anyone interested in learning more about Nebraska’s outdoor heritage.”

2016 Nebraska State Habitat Meeting Highlights
-    Dog Training – Seminars, Professional Trainers, and Expert Advice
-    Pheasants Forever & Quail Forever 4 Millionth Acre Celebration
-    Question & Answer Forum with Wildlife Experts
-    Pheasant & Quail Best Management Practices
-    Monarch Butterfly & Pollinator Information
-    Prescribed Fire Seminars and Training
-    PF/QF Youth Programs and Events
-    CRP Program Information

Additional Highlight: Husker football legend, Calvin Jones, will be greeting state meeting participants on the evening of February 13 during the 2016 Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever State Banquet.

Location: Holiday Inn Convention Center – 110 2nd Avenue, Kearney, NE

Cost: $30 for general public & chapter members; $15 for resource professionals; $5 for students – all prices include lunch. Find the full agenda and register online... http://nebraskapf.com/events/state-habitat-meeting/.  For more information, contact Ashley Weyers at (308) 850-8395.



Ag Land Values Likely to Continue Gradual Decline in 2016

A softer agricultural land market will continue in 2016, with values for high quality land holding steadier, while lower quality land values decline.

Still, despite lower land values scattered across many regions, land values in general will remain historically high when compared to long-term trends, reports Farmers National Company, the nation’s leading farm and ranch real estate company.

Farmers National Company statistics indicate positive long-term economic trends, even with the current softening of ag land values. The current land value trend may encourage new buyers to enter the market or existing investors to expand portfolios.

REGIONAL LAND VALUE REPORTS

Nebraska
“We experienced some dramatic changes in land prices across Nebraska (cropland and pasture acres) in the last 45 to 60 days of 2015,” said JD Maxson, area sales manager for Farmers National Company in North Platte, Neb.

Lower commodity prices have had a different impact on tillable acres with average to medium quality tillable acres dropping 15 to 25 percent in most areas. Western and southwestern Nebraska land sales trended downward as cropland sales dropped off throughout the year. Pasture grass and grazing acres also were impacted by the bottom line profitability of the livestock producers.

"The demand for high quality cropland has remained strong, with eastern Nebraska showing the most strength.There is less available land in the marketplace than a year ago, but buyers still exist," Maxson said.

With location being the key, land prices will be impacted in 2016 by lower commodity prices. However, other factors will also come into play, such as access, soil type, grain market accessibility and how long high quality ground has been owned by a family or entity. In Nebraska, water availability, metered wells and the moratorium on drilling wells have a huge impact on land values.

The demand for land will most likely remain consistent as investors and owner operators view land as a long-term investment to hedge against future inflation. "Looking forward to 2016, land prices (cropland and pasture acres) will most likely remain relatively flat if we don't see an upward movement in commodity prices and increased profit margins for our livestock producers," said Maxson.

Every piece of land is unique, Maxson said, and land values vary greatly from east to west in Nebraska. Prices for high quality irrigated cropland will range from $3,500 to $10,000 or more per acre.

Iowa
In general, Iowa saw an eight percent decrease in the value of high quality land in 2015, said Sam Kain, ALC, GRI, ABRM, national sales manager for Farmers National Company based out of West Des Moines, Iowa. This trend toward lower prices was attributed to lower commodity prices, Kain said.

“If you’re thinking about selling land, be sure to expose it to all potential buyers. We saw sales toward the end of 2015 that went really well, that sold really high,” Kain said. “The outlook for 2016 will depend upon how much land is put out on the market. There’s still a strong demand for high quality land, but with a small supply, the market should remain stable.”

Cash rents have been under pressure in Iowa since 2014, gradually lowering as grain prices have fallen, Kain said. Farmers looking to expand their operations are helping spur strong land sales, as are investors. As prices drop a bit, more investors are expressing interest, he said.

“Farmland doesn’t change hands often, so when farmers have the opportunity, they try and get it. They may not have another chance in their lifetime to buy that farm. For investors, there aren’t other investments out there that are as secure and stable as land that yields any type of return,” Kain said. “Iowa is still seeing very, very good prices. How many other investments see values double in a little more than five years like land here has?”

In Iowa, top quality land is currently selling for around $10,100 per acre.




Farm Bureau Delegates Chart a Course for 2016

Delegates from all 50 states and Puerto Rico today elected new leaders and approved policies that will help determine the future of agriculture, during the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 97th Annual Convention. Renewable fuels, governmental reform, farm policy, risk management and international trade were among the most important matters slated for action over the next 12 months.

Delegates elected Zippy Duvall to serve as the new president of AFBF and Scott VanderWal as vice president.

Vincent “Zippy” Duvall is a poultry, cattle and hay producer from Greene County, Georgia, and served as president of the Georgia Farm Bureau for 9 years. Duvall has held numerous leadership positions in Farm Bureau and his local community. He is the 12th president of the American Farm Bureau Federation.

Scott VanderWal is a third-generation family farmer from Volga, South Dakota, and has been president of the South Dakota Farm Bureau since 2004.

Delegates elected seven state Farm Bureau presidents to the AFBF board of directors: Carl Bednarski, Michigan; Rich Felts, Kansas (Midwest Region), Harry Ott, South Carolina; Jeff Aiken, Tennessee; Gerald Long, Georgia (Southern Region), Rick Ebert, Pennsylvania (Northeast Region) and Bryce Wrigley, Alaska (Western Region).

Eleven other state Farm Bureau presidents were re-elected to represent their regions on the AFBF board of directors: Jim Holte, Wisconsin; Blake Hurst, Missouri; Steve Nelson, Nebraska (Midwest Region), Mark Haney, Kentucky; John Hoblick, Florida; Mike McCormick, Mississippi; Jimmy Parnell, Alabama; Wayne Pryor, Virginia; Randy Veach, Arkansas (Southern Region), Ryck Suydam, New Jersey (Northeast Region) and Hank Combs, Nevada (Western Region).

Denise “Denny” Hymel of Louisiana, Joan Myers of Pennsylvania, Lillian Ostendorf of Montana and Deb Walsh of Indiana were re-elected to two-year terms on the Women’s Leadership Committee.

Cole Coxbill, a cattle rancher and crop grower from Wyoming, was elected the new chair of the AFBF Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee, which also makes him a member of the AFBF board of directors during his one-year term.

Policy Discussions

Risk Management
Delegates approved new policies that covered a wide range of agricultural topics. Among other things, they:
* Supported the addition of cottonseed to the list of oilseed crops eligible for farm programs;
* Supported voluntary risk management products for poultry growers that would provide assistance during disease outbreaks, and
* Reaffirmed support for programs that provide emergency assistance for livestock and tree producers not covered by federal crop insurance programs.

Regulatory Review and Reform
Delegates addressed recent malfeasance by establishing a new policy that opposes governmental attempts to sway public opinion regarding rules that are open for public comment, whether by social media or other means.

International Trade
Delegates reaffirmed support for fair and open world trade that benefits agriculture. In particular, AFBF voted to support the Trans Pacific Partnership, which promises to expand opportunities for U.S. farm goods to some of the fastest-growing markets around the world.

Biotechnology
Delegates reaffirmed their support for the use of genetically modified plant varieties and other innovative technologies. Delegates also called for a voluntary and uniform labeling system for products designated as genetically modified organisms. They denounced mandatory labeling of food products containing GMOs at the local, state and federal levels.

Law Enforcement
Delegates approved new policy related to forfeiture reform that requires that individuals be convicted of a federal crime before their property is seized.

Immigration
Delegates reaffirmed support for flexibility in the H-2A program that would allow workers to seek employment from more than one farmer. They also called on Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform to assist in solving the continuing shortage of agricultural workers.

Big Data
Delegates reaffirmed support for the protection of proprietary data collected from farmers, as well as fair compensation for farmers who choose to sell their data to third parties including other farmers.

Energy
The delegates maintained their strong support for biofuels and the Renewable Fuel Standard. They also called for continued tax incentives to benefit biodiesel and other advanced biofuels.



Pork Crisis Alert Text Service Announced

The National Pork Board today introduced a pork industry crisis text news service, Pork Crisis Alert, which will immediately deliver essential information to U.S. pork producers in the event of a major industry-wide emergency.

“Every day, America’s pork producers are busy on their farms and may not always have immediate access to information that could impact their operation,” said Derrick Sleezer, National Pork Board president and a pig farmer from Cherokee, Iowa. “Disease outbreaks and other emergency situations can spread quickly, so America’s pig farmers need a news service to notify them immediately and enable them to take early action to safeguard their farms.”

When a pork industry-wide emergency is declared, Pork Crisis Alert will text instructions to farmers alerting them on how to access information and other critical resources online or by calling the Pork Checkoff Service Center at (800) 456-7675. Pork Crisis Alert is just one element of the Pork Checkoff’s overall risk management program, defined in the strategic plan introduced early in 2015.

Pork Crisis Alert texts will be used strictly in the event of a true industry-wide emergency and will never be used for activities unrelated to emergency communications. This database of subscribers will never be used for marketing or shared with any third parties. The system will also be tested twice each year to ensure operational accuracy for the pig farmers who enroll in the program.

“It’s easy to sign up by texting ’PorkCrisis’ to 97296,” Sleezer said. “I encourage all pork producers and farm employees to opt-in to receive these important alerts. The program is like insurance in the sense that, while we hope we never need it, it is reassuring to have state-of-the-art communications resources at our fingertips.”

The service is free of charge to all participants, however, message and data rates may apply, depending on the individual’s personal or business cellular phone plan.

For more information about Pork Crisis Alerts, please call the Pork Checkoff Service Center, (800) 456-7675. Those who opt in may cancel at any time. For terms and privacy policies, visit www.pork.org/smsterms.



ASA Welcomes Release of Final Gulf Aquaculture Rule

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on Monday released its final Gulf Aquaculture Rule, which represents a key early step in the fostering of a domestic offshore aquaculture industry, said the American Soybean Association (ASA). The association, which represents the nation’s soybean farmers, has been a consistent and strong advocate for the growth of the offshore aquaculture industry in the U.S., and its demand for soybean meal as a sustainable and affordable fish feed.

“ASA supports this plan as the first step to realizing offshore aquaculture development and growth in federal waters,” said ASA President Richard Wilkins, a farmer from Greenwood, Del. “The final rule today sets us on a course to development of the promising marine aquaculture industry in the United States, which has so much room to grow.”

Currently, the U.S. imports 91 percent of the seafood Americans eat, contributing to a trade deficit of $11.2 billion. ASA argues that a streamlined aquaculture policy will encourage the development of a domestic industry that create U.S. jobs, meets growing demand for a safe and sustainable source of seafood, and fosters an additional and growing domestic market for the soybean meal that provides such a valuable source of protein in fish feed.

“As the domestic offshore aquaculture industry grows, it creates multiple positives for American consumers, workers and farmers alike,” said Wilkins. “It creates and supports jobs in coastal communities and all along the inland supply chain to retail and foodservice; it generates an American-grown source of nutritious and in-demand protein; and it further expands a growing market for the meal that we as farmers produce on our farms.”

“We applaud the administration for finalizing this rule,” Wilkins added. “We look forward to working with our partners at the Soy Aquaculture Alliance, as well as within the industry, to continue the momentum from today’s announcement.”



NCBA Urges House to Support Disapproval of WOTUS
 
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council, along with 42 state affiliate organizations, today sent a letter to the House of Representatives urging support of Senate Joint Resolution 22, disapproval of the EPA and Army Corps’ “waters of the United States” rule. NCBA President Philip Ellis, said withdrawal or defunding of WOTUS remains a top priority for cattlemen.

“The WOTUS rule is one of the most onerous land grabs undertaken by any regulator,” said Ellis. “The WOTUS rule extends beyond Congressional intent and would affect not only ranchers, but every land use stakeholder nationwide. This rule is not about preserving our nation’s resources, it’s about an overzealous regulatory administration.”

In November, the Senate voted in 53-44 in bi-partisan support of S.J.Res. 22. Since that time, the Government Accountability Office released their legal opinion finding that the EPA violated federal law by engaging in covert propaganda and grassroots lobbying in support of the WOTUS rule.

“Both chambers of Congress have acted in a bi-partisan way to block the WOTUS rule,” said Ellis. “With the GAO’s confirmation of the flaws in the rulemaking process and illegal actions by the EPA, it is time to withdraw this rule. Ranchers have been spared from the effect of this rule through a temporary stay by the courts, but it’s time for Congress to act.”



USGC Statement on Chinese Initiation of Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Duties Investigations of U.S. DDGS Exported to China

A statement from President and Chief Executive Officer Thomas N. Sleight following the announcement by China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) that it has initiated anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations of U.S. distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) exported to China:

“We are disappointed to see today the initiation of anti-dumping and countervailing duties investigations of U.S. DDGS exports to China. We believe the allegations by the Chinese petitioners are unwarranted and unhelpful. They could have negative effects on U.S. ethanol and DDGS producers, as well as on Chinese consumers, potentially over a period of many years. We are also confident that our trading practices for DDGS, ethanol and all coarse grains and related products are fair throughout the world. We stand ready to cooperate fully with these investigations and will be working closely with our members to coordinate the U.S. industry response.

“The U.S. Grains Council has worked in China since 1981 to find solutions to the challenges of food security through development and trade. There have been measureable positive effects of this work for the Chinese feed and livestock industries and Chinese consumers. We and our members will work vigorously in the coming months to demonstrate that the allegations being investigated by MOFCOM are false, even while we continue to stand ready to expand our cooperation with China on agricultural issues of mutual benefit.”



Brazil's Ag Ministry Maintains 102 MMT Soy Crop View

Bucking the trend for reducing Brazilian soybean crop forecasts in recent weeks, the Brazilian Agriculture Ministry basically maintained its view Thursday.

Output from the 2015-16 crop will total 102.1 million metric tons (mmt), down marginally from 102.4 mmt in December, according to CONAB, the ministry unit that conducts crop research. That is some 6% higher than last year.

CONAB recognized that crops in Mato Grosso, the No. 1 soy-producing state, had been affected by a lack of rain.  "There is a consensus among those consulted that the lack of rain will cause a fall in yields and early planted soybeans will be the worst effected," said the report.  But CONAB still forecasts respectable yields for the state at 46.0 bushels per acre, down just 1.3% on last year.

The report also highlights concerns of farmers in southern Brazil about excessive rain, lack of sunlight hours and disease. But, overall, yields in the region are still expected to rise 1.5% on the year to 46.3 bpa.

CONAB noted the dryness issues in the Matopiba region in the eastern Cerrado but did not significantly alter its forecasts.

The survey was conducted between Dec. 13 and Dec. 19.

The CONAB forecast is something of a surprise when you consider that most analysts now predict a crop of less than 100 mmt. Last week, USDA lowered its estimate to 98 mmt.



Pork Checkoff Opens Nominations for the 2016 America’s Pig Farmer of the YearSM  Award
Pork Industry Award Program Enters Its Second Year

The National Pork Board is accepting applications for its 2016 America’s Pig Farmer of the YearSM award through March 13 at americaspigfarmer.com. The award recognizes a U.S. pork producer who demonstrates excellence in raising pigs using the We CareSM ethical principles and in sharing his or her story with the public.

“It has been an honor to represent America’s Pig Farmers,” said Keith Schoettmer, a pig farmer from Indiana and the first America’s Pig Farmer of the Year. “I encourage people to nominate excellent pig farmers who want to represent their farm and our industry.”

Schoettmer has participated in several events since being named America’s Pig Farmer of the Year in October. This has included taking part in a media tour in New York City and speaking at a congressional briefing in Washington, D.C., hosted by the American Humane Association.

Third-party judges again will help determine the final award recipient, with the winner announced during National Pork Month this October. The U.S. public also will play a role in the final outcome by viewing short video clips of the award finalists on their farms at americaspigfarmer.com and by voting for finalists through the Pork Checkoff’s social media outlets.

“This award brings to life the National Pork Board’s commitment to building consumer trust through on-farm transparency and accountability,” said National Pork Board President Derrick Sleezer, who is a pig farmer from Cherokee, Iowa. “The ideal candidate will have a focus on environmental sustainability, as well as animal welfare, production efficiency, the adoption of best practices and a commitment to continuous improvement. I encourage pork producers to consider nominating an outstanding candidate.”

While nominations are being accepted now through March 13, any U.S. pig farmer, who is 30 years of age or older on Jan. 1, 2016, can apply Feb. 1 through March 13. Instructions and frequently asked questions can be found at americaspigfarmer.com or via a link on pork.org. Specific details also will be available through state pork associations.



ASA Echoes President Obama's Commitment to Trade in State of the Union

The American Soybean Association (ASA) welcomed the commitment tonight from President Barack Obama to trade and its promise for the American economy. Specifically, ASA looks forward to continuing its cooperation with the administration to advance the Trans-Pacific Partnership as well as further normalization of trade relations with Cuba. ASA President Richard Wilkins, a farmer from Greenwood, Del., issued the following statement after the State of the Union address on Tuesday night:

"The commitment of this administration to trade is something that we have appreciated at every turn, and the President's final State of the Union address this evening shows that course will continue throughout the year.

"We understand that the Trans-Pacific Partnership is going to be a heavy lift this year, but we are excited to continue our press to see it passed by our Congress and ratified. The promise of the TPP for soybean farmers is too great to accept anything less, and we are very encouraged to hear the president continue his focus on the TPP in the year to come.

"Soy benefits from the TPP in three ways: first, through in increase in the direct export of soybeans and soy products to the 11 TPP nations, which already account for $5.4 billion in annual soy exports. Second and perhaps more importantly, the TPP will significantly expand meat exports to the region, which drives demand for soy meal as livestock feed here in the U.S. . Finally, the TPP will foster long-term demand through the further development of the emerging economies within the region.

"Another positive signal from the administration is its continued commitment to expanding our relationship with Cuba. ASA supports the development of further trade ties in Cuba because of the proximity and promise of that economy, and we appreciate and welcome the president's persistence on the issue.

"Moving forward, we will only escalate our commitment to working with the administration and Congress to expand our trading relationships in all corners of the world."



Optional Tours Provide Unique New Orleans Experiences at Commodity Classic

From a voodoo queen to unique cuisine, farmers and their families will have the opportunity to explore one of the nation’s most fascinating cities thanks to a line-up of unique optional tours available as the 2016 Commodity Classic comes to New Orleans, March 3-5.

The optional tour line-up for the 2016 Commodity Classic includes:

-    Attractions such as a mansion, plantation, the Garden District and other New Orleans area highlights;

-    A deep dive into the religious history of New Orleans, including the legendary above-ground tombs, the area’s oldest church, historic Lafayette Cemetery and the gravesite of a notorious voodoo queen;

-    A journey through one of the wildest swamps and marshlands in North America, with your choice of a flatboat or airboat as your mode of transportation;

-    Tours of unique businesses including a sugar refinery, a coffee processor and a state-of-the-art grain handling port facility; and

-    Opportunities to enjoy the unique flavors and cuisine of New Orleans, as well as shopping along eclectic and diverse Magazine Street.

Some tours take place prior to the official start of Commodity Classic, while others are scheduled during the event, providing an attractive recreational option for family members who may not be integrally involved in Commodity Classic activities.

“We really hope that growers and their families coming to Commodity Classic take the opportunity to explore this unique American city,” said Commodity Classic Co-Chair Sam Butler, an Alabama soybean farmer.  “The tour line-up offers one-of-a-kind experiences and memories that shouldn’t be missed.”

Tour reservations are confirmed on a first-come, space-available basis.  The deadline for preregistration is February 10.

For a complete tour details including costs and schedules, visit www.CommodityClassic.com/optional-tours.

Established in 1996, Commodity Classic is America's largest farmer-led, farmer-focused convention and trade show, produced by the National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Sorghum Producers and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers.

For more information on registration, housing and the schedule of activities, visit www.CommodityClassic.com.



USDA 2016 Agricultural Outlook Forum Plenary Panel Announced

The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the members of this year's Agricultural Outlook Forum Plenary Panel on "Providing Leadership for Present and Future Generations in the Transformation of Agriculture."

This year's panelists have backgrounds in academia, business, farming and media, bringing a range of expertise to this discussion on transforming the future of agriculture. The group includes Elizabeth Garrett, President of Cornell University; Ilene Gordon, CEO of Ingredion; Pamela Hess, Executive Director of the Arcadia Center for Sustainable Food and Agriculture; and Pam Johnson, an Iowa farmer and former president of National Corn Growers Association.

The Forum's plenary panelists have unique perspectives on the present and future of agriculture and rural America. Technology is opening doors to new applications for producers and throughout the marketing chain, while demographics are changing across the country's rural landscape and farm households. These trends coupled with new markets domestically and abroad, as well as new programs under the 2014 Farm Bill, form the basis for the 92nd Agricultural Outlook Forum.

The opening plenary will feature remarks from Secretary Vilsack and Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden and "The 2016 Economic Outlook for Agriculture" presented by USDA Chief Economist Robert Johansson. The Forum's keynote speaker is Howard Buffett, CEO of the Howard G. Buffett Foundation. Mitch E. Daniels, Jr., President of Purdue University and former Governor of Indiana will be the dinner speaker.

Thirty concurrent track sessions supporting this theme include the Agriculture Talent Pipeline, Bioproducts, Commodities, Land & Tenure Transition, New Markets, Organics, Risk Management, Scientific Advancement, and Trade, to Urban Agriculture. Deputy Secretary Harden will also host a session on opportunities in agriculture for new and beginning farmers and host a Women's Agriculture Networking event.

USDA has hosted the Agricultural Outlook Forum since 1923. It's also USDA's largest annual meeting, attracting 1,600 attendees. It serves as a platform to facilitate conversation of key issues and topics within the agricultural community, including producers, processors, policy makers, government officials and NGOs, both foreign and domestic. The two-day meeting will be held at the Crystal Gateway Marriott Hotel in Arlington, Virginia, Feb. 25–26, 2016.

To view Forum information and register go to www.usda.gov/oce/forum.



Brookside Agra Develops All-Natural AgFlu™ Multi-Purpose Solution to Combat Deadly Avian Influenza Virus

According to the Fall 2015 HPAI Preparedness and Response Plan released in September, 2015 by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the highly pathogenic Avian Influenza has been detected in commercial and backyard poultry flocks, wild birds or captive wild birds in 21 states. With the last spring outbreak identified in June, 2015, a total of 211 commercial and 21 backyard poultry premises had been affected, according to the report. The report further states that the outbreak resulted in the depopulation of 7.5 million turkeys and 42.1 million egg-layer and pullet chickens, with devastating effects on these businesses, and a cost to Federal taxpayers of over $950 million.

Infected birds pass on the Avian Influenza virus through their saliva, nasal secretions and feces. Migratory birds may serve as carriers for the virus while never actually contracting the disease. The possibility of a pandemic spread among domestic birds and into the human population worldwide and in the United States is a major concern.

To date, there is no commercially available vaccine to protect humans from the virus, therefore, putting a priority on bio-security and sanitizing programs that can help prevent the virus' spread.

O'Fallon, Illinois-based Brookside Agra has taken a major step toward helping farmers prevent the deadly virus and protect their flocks through the development of an all-natural, multi-purpose solution called AgFlu™.

AgFlu  is shown to be 99% effective against the Avian Influenza A virus, better known as H5N1, and other mutated strains when sprayed on surfaces and equipment, used in fogging and when ingested through drinking water by birds, chickens, ducks, turkeys and swine, which can also contract the virus.

Safe to handle, AgFlu works on contact and is non-toxic to birds, humans and animals. AgFlu contains bioflavanoids and organic acids and leaves no environmental residues and is non-corrosive.

To test the effect of AgFlu on the H5N1 virus in the air, biotechnology researchers at Chongqing Institute of Technology in Chongqing, China conducted a series of research studies. Researchers sprayed the H5N1 virus inside a sealed testing box, then sprayed the inside with AgFlu. A 60-day-old chicken was then raised in the testing box after half an hour. AgFlu was sprayed in the box once in the morning, then at night for 15 successive days. The study concluded that after spraying 50ppm of AgFlu twice daily, the protection rate from the virus was 100% in 15 days.

"Prevention of a pandemic spread includes destruction of infected animals. The spread might also be slowed by increasing hygiene in aircraft, poultry houses and wherever waste is stored and poultry is transported and raised. AgFlu has become a major part of many farmers' bio-security programs by preventing the spread of the H5NI virus and other mutated strains in an all-natural way," said Chad Vaninger, Brookside Agra Executive Vice President and General Manager.

AgFlu is available in 1-liter bottles.  Ideal application areas include sale barns, animal trailers, equipment, hatcheries, poultry operations and water dispensing systems.