Tuesday September 20 Ag News

GET READY FOR SPRING GRAZING
Bruce Anderson, NE Extension Forage Specialist

               When did your livestock start grazing last spring?  Mid-May?  Late April?  Let’s talk about getting started a month earlier next year.

               A week and a half ago during the cold and drizzle at Husker Harvest Days, corn was being combined.  Those huge, expensive machines are quite impressive, but I’m sometimes more interested in how thoroughly their headers chopped up the stalks.

               At first I think about how fast these stalks would get stomped into the ground if cattle were grazing or how quickly they would deteriorate with just a little rain.  I also worry about how little would stick out even with just a little snow.  It’s sure a lot different than when leaving long stalks for cows to scavenge over several winter months.

               I realize that aggressive chopping at harvest makes it much easier to seed next spring with little or no advanced tillage.  But maybe this also creates almost ideal conditions for drilling winter wheat, rye, or triticale.

               Winter rye can be especially valuable for farmers that have both crops and livestock.  When you have both crops and livestock, sometimes your management of certain phases of production is less than perfect because of demands from other operations.  Rye often develops a usable stand under conditions unsuitable for wheat or triticale, so it can be successful more reliably.  It also greens up earlier and grows faster in the spring, allowing you to finish grazing early enough to still plant a row crop on a timely basis.  Add to that the chance to get cattle out on pasture several weeks early and I think you have a win-win situation.

               So take advantage of it.  These opportunities don’t occur every day.



Agriculture Acting Deputy Secretary Scuse to Open USDA Fall Forum at the University of Nebraska

On Thursday, Sept. 22, Agriculture Acting Deputy Secretary Michael Scuse will deliver keynote remarks at University of Nebraska to kick off the USDA Land Tenure and the Next Generation of Agriculture Fall Forum. After his remarks, a panel featuring members of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) will cover key issues related to land ownership and the next generation of agriculture in their states. The keynote and panel discussion are open to members of the media and invited participants. Scuse will be available to answer questions after the panel.

Last month, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that USDA would hold a series of Fall Forums to highlight the progress made on the top issues facing the future of agriculture and to set the stage for the next Administration to continue to support a strong future for American agriculture. Each Forum will be hosted in partnership with key stakeholders and leading research universities, and will focus on a different agricultural issue.

With the average age of the American farmer exceeding 58 years, USDA recognizes the need to bring more people into agriculture. Over the course of this Administration, USDA has engaged its resources to provide greater support to the farmers of the future by improving access to land and capital; building new markets and market opportunities; extending new conservation opportunities; offering appropriate risk management tools; and increasing outreach, education, and technical support.



UNL Faculty Member to Discuss Novel crops at Arizona symposium

Worldwide, humans depend on about five to six crops – corn, soy, wheat, rice, potato and cassava – for consumption. But, the need for more diversity in diets and crops is being addressed by the medical community and scientists.

The “Novel and Ancient Crops: Small in Acreage, Large in Value” symposium planned at the Resilience Emerging from Scarcity and Abundance ASA, CSSA, SSSA International Annual Meeting in Phoenix, AZ, will address this important topic. The symposium will be held Tuesday, November 8, 2016 at 10:15 AM. The meeting is sponsored by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and the Soil Science Society of America.

According to Vikas Belamkar, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, “people are starting to become more health and diet conscious. Currently, five to six crops make up most of what is grown in the world, and about 20 crops are used as edible crops. This is rapidly changing because of interest in new diets. It’s also impacted by changes in the weather, which is forcing the scientific community to look into novel crops. In general novel/underutilized crops have several beneficial characteristics such as increased resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, nutritional benefits, etc.” Belamkar will be presenting research on Apios americana (potato bean), which he did as a graduate student with Steven Cannon at Iowa State University/USDA-ARS. Apios is a legume used by Native Americans that is high in protein, and can be grown as a perennial crop.

Kevin Murphy, Washington State University, will present "Quinoa Cultivation in Western North America: Lessons Learned and the Path Forward." According to Murphy, quinoa is a "relatively new crop to farmers in North America." His presentation will review research from five western United States universities. "Abiotic stresses including excessive salinity, drought, harvest precipitation, and heat each play a critical role in defining the potential marginal and optimal geographic regions for quinoa production."

For more information about the Resilience Emerging from Scarcity and Abundance 2016 meeting, visit https://www.acsmeetings.org/.



Growers Announce 60-Day Harvest Weight Proclamation

To help haul in this year's harvest, Governor Terry Branstad signed a proclamation this evening granting a temporary 60-day weight limit exemption for trucks on Iowa roads, effective starting at 12:01 am, Sept. 20. The proclamation specifically increases the weight allowable for shipment of corn, soybeans, hay, straw and stover, by 12.5 percent per axle (up to a maximum of 90,000 pounds) without the need for an oversize/overweight permit.

The 2016 proclamation again applies to loads transported on all highways within Iowa, excluding the interstate system. Trucks cannot exceed the truck's regular maximum by more than 12.5 percent per axle and must obey the posted limits on all roads and bridges.

"On behalf of Iowa farmers, we sincerely thank Governor Branstad for the proclamation, realizing that the harvest weight proclamation is not a right by law, but a petition we make to the Governor," said Iowa Corn Growers Association President Kurt Hora, a farmer from Washington. "This proclamation provides a tremendous help to us as we work to efficiently haul in this year's crop."

"I am pleased today to sign this proclamation to allow Iowa farmers to move their crop yields in an effective and efficient manner," said Branstad. "Iowa's farmers are a critical component of Iowa's economy and this proclamation will ensure they're able to transport their crop ahead of deteriorating weather conditions."

This proclamation is intended to allow vehicles transporting soybeans, corn, hay, straw, silage and stover to be overweight, not exceeding 90,000 pounds gross weight, without a permit, but only for the duration of this proclamation. This action is intended to allow loads transported on all highways within Iowa, excluding the interstate system, and those which do not exceed a maximum of 90,000 pounds gross weight, do not exceed the maximum axle weight limit determined under the non-primary highway maximum gross weight table in Iowa Code §321.463(5) (b), by more than twelve and one-half percent (12.5%), do not exceed the legal maximum axle weight limit of 20,000 pounds, and comply with posted limits on roads and bridges.

The Iowa Department of Transportation is directed to monitor the operation of this proclamation to assure the public's safety and facilitate the movement of the trucks involved.

ICGA provided Governor Branstad and official request and the information required for a proclamation, such as estimated harvest predictions. The proclamation directs the Iowa Department of Transportation to monitor the operation of the proclamation, assure the public's safety and facilitate the movement of the trucks involved. Farmers who are transporting grain are also required to follow their vehicle safety standards on axle weights.

The exemption will be granted for 60 days beginning, Sept. 20.



National Pork Board Delivers on Strategy of Responsible Antibiotic Use

The National Pork Board is leading the conversation to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and preserve the responsible on-farm use of antibiotics in pork production. The Pork Checkoff, funded directly by America’s 60,000 pig farmers, defined its three-point antibiotic stewardship plan in mid-2015 and has delivered on its pledge of promoting research, pig farmer education and consumer and influencer outreach during 2016.

“Real, substantive change is underway on pig farms across America with the farmers themselves shaping the discussion around responsible antibiotic use,” said Jan Archer, National Pork Board president and a pig farmer from North Carolina. “We were the first food-animal industry to announce our stewardship plan, which underscores that antibiotics are essential tools for veterinarians and farmers to raise healthy livestock and to produce safe food.”

Archer added that today’s pig farmers stand ready to implement the new, more stringent U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rules when they take effect on Jan. 1, 2017. These rules – FDA Guidelines 209 and 213 and the Veterinary Feed Directive Rule – end the use of medically important antibiotics for growth promotion and bring the use of medically important antimicrobial medicines under the direct supervision of veterinarians and dictate that they be used only when necessary to ensure animal health.

“We have been listening closely to the many audiences touched by food production,” said Archer. “From retail grocery chains to the foodservice industry, and from consumers to those influencers who define food production policy, we completely understand the important role pig farmers play in delivering safe food. We are committed to defining the ideal balance of the right medicine, in the right dose, at the right time for our pigs.”

Toward that end, in 2016 the U.S. pork industry has:
-    Collaborated with federal agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture, FDA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and veterinary and farmer organizations to look for ways to continuously improve responsible antibiotic use.
-    Introduced the Don’t Wait… Be Ready! pig farmer awareness and education campaign.
-    Invested $750,000 in five research areas that include defining alternative antibiotic technologies, studying the environmental fate of antibiotics and better understanding the impact of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
-    Named a third-party panel of non-farm experts to provide objective, independent counsel on the National Pork Board’s current and future research, education and communication priorities.
-    Hosted several events and presentations with key influencers and the media to shape discussion around antibiotic use in both livestock and human health.

“America’s pig farmers embrace the new FDA rules which truly change the long-standing practices of our industry,” said Bill Even, National Pork Board chief executive officer. “Pig farmers are committed to a process of continuous improvement in a number of areas, especially regarding responsible antibiotic use. One key element of that commitment is strengthening the relationships farmers have with their veterinarians.”

“We take our role as pig farmers very seriously when it comes to using antibiotics responsibly,” Archer said. “Just as in human medicine with patients and doctors, we realize that pig farmers and their veterinarians are the linchpin to keeping food safe, and antibiotics effective, for future generations.”

Materials outlining each of the pork industry’s efforts are available from the Antibiotics Resource Center (pork.org/antibiotics). They explain how producers should prepare for the expansion of the veterinary feed directive (VFD) and the elimination of growth promotion use of antibiotics deemed medically important to human health. The Checkoff also is introducing a new infographic that highlights the major steps forward in responsible antibiotic use over the past year.



 NFU Joins in Promoting Safe Practices During National Farm Safety and Health Week

As farmers are preparing to begin the fall harvest, National Farmers Union (NFU) joined in the effort to promote safe practices on and around the farm during National Farm Safety and Health Week. President Barack Obama designated farm safety week to reaffirm support for programs and practices that promote health and safety on America’s farms.

“We’re glad to see the White House designate a week to building awareness of farm safety programs and promoting safe practices on and around the farm. Whether you’re a one-time visitor or a multi-generation farm family, farm safety education can help keep everyone safe from avoidable accidents and casualties,” said NFU President Roger Johnson.

Nearly 500 farm work-related deaths occur annually, according to a 2013 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics study, and machinery accidents account for approximately a quarter of them, Johnson explained.

“Especially this time of year, there is a lot of large farm equipment being operated in the fields and sharing rural roads with other motorists. It’s important for producers and consumers alike to be aware of the dangers and know best practices to avoid related accidents,” he added.

Earlier this year, NFU launched a series of 10 videos designed to educate farm and ranch families, agriculture workers and consumers who visit farms about the proper safety precautions. The video topics focus on farm equipment, livestock handling, grain hauling and storage, keeping kids safe on the farm and more.

More information about NFU farm safety education is available at nfu.org/farmsafety. 



Future Ag Leaders Embark on Educational Experience

Farmers and ranchers spend their days forking food to America – now it is your turn to bring their message to the world. With the launch of the eighth annual edition of the College Aggies Online (CAO) scholarship program this past Monday, the Animal Agriculture Alliance is delighted to announce a platinum sponsorship from Dairy Management Inc. (DMI).

“The animal agriculture industry needs strong social media users to communicate information about agriculture to consumers,” said Don Schindler, senior vice president of digital initiatives for DMI, which manages the national dairy check off. “College Aggies Online does a great job of engaging and mentoring the next generation of agriculture communicators for doing just that.”

With the support from DMI’s sponsorship, CAO participants will cultivate valuable skills while competing for scholarship funds and other prizes. Throughout the nine-week competitive program, college students harvest their interests and grow their passions for animal agriculture. With weekly training and instruction from industry experts, participants connect on social media by posting about current and emerging issues facing farmers and ranchers and by sharing personal stories and experiences on industry-related topics.

Through research, education and innovation, DMI supports dairy foods, farms and businesses to maintain America’s confidence in the dairy industry. DMI was created to benefit dairy farmers and importers by increasing sales and demand for dairy products. This is the third year DMI has sponsored CAO.

“We are so grateful for DMI’s platinum sponsorship of CAO,” said Kay Johnson Smith, Alliance president and CEO of the organization. “The consistent support from sponsors like DMI helps the Alliance to meet our goal of training the next generation of ‘ag-vocates’ and paving a strong future for animal agriculture.”

CAO registration remains open for both individuals and student organizations to be a part of this year’s competition. For registration information, visit www.animalagalliance.org/connect/#collegeaggies.

Participants receive weekly tasks such as writing blog posts, attending webinars hosted by industry experts, creating infographics and more. If students participate as an organization, they are assigned group challenges, such as holding an “Ag Day” on campus, handing out candy wrapped with meat myths and facts, teaching at local elementary schools, etc. Students earn points for each task completed and for promoting agriculture on social media.

Since its inception in 2009, CAO has impacted over 4,000 students nationally. Organizations are encouraged to contact Allyson Jones-Brimmer, Alliance membership and marketing manager, with questions regarding sponsorship at ajonesbrimmer@animalagalliance.org.



PEDv Confirmed on Canadian Swine Farm

The Canadian province of Manitoba, a big piglet exporter to the United States, has confirmed its first case of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus in three months, amid concerns that dirty trucks may be carrying the virus across the border.

According to Reuters, Manitoba's government confirmed the case of PEDv on a sow farm last week. The latest case, and all others in the province dating back to 2014, are located in the province's southeast region.

The region's hog industry had complained in May when Canada's food inspection agency revived a requirement that trucks delivering pigs to U.S. farms be washed before returning to Canada.

Three Manitoba infections in spring fueled concerns among Canadian farmers and veterinarians that commercial U.S. washes are contaminated with the virus. There is no evidence of this, however.

Two years ago, during a U.S. outbreak of the virus that ultimately killed 8 million pigs, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency suspended the rule requiring that trucks carrying swine be washed in the United States before returning to Canada.



NCGA, ASA Testify At Senate Hearing on Ag Industry Consolidation

Regulatory barriers facing agriculture are a major driver of agriculture industry consolidation, National Corn Growers Association Chief Executive Officer Chris Novak will testify Tuesday at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on consolidation and competition in the U.S. seed and agrochemical industry. Novak is testifying on behalf of both the National Corn Growers Association and the American Soybean Association.

“Domestic regulatory hurdles for crop protection chemicals and delays in international approvals for new seed traits represent significant barriers to market entry. These barriers slow down innovation and drive up the cost of seed and chemicals. The process of developing and testing new products, and then securing regulatory approval to bring them to market, requires a substantial amount of time and money. As a result, fewer and fewer companies have the resources to be players in the market. This trend toward consolidation will continue unless and until Congress addresses these regulatory hurdles,” Novak will testify.

Together, NCGA and ASA represent more than 500,000 corn and soybean farmers nationwide, and they have a direct interest in ensuring a competitive marketplace for crop production inputs. Earlier this year, NCGA and ASA joined forces to conduct an analysis of a recently announced merger and ensure their members’ best interests were represented in conversations with the Department of Justice.

In written testimony submitted to the Senate Judiciary Committee for the hearing, NCGA and ASA argue that a competitive marketplace is measured by more than the number of competitors, but also their size and relative ability to compete.

“True competition is not based solely on the number of players within a given market. Strong competition can result from having several evenly-matched companies fighting for market share within the seed, chemistry and trait development markets,” the written testimony states.
NCGA and ASA call on government and industry to work together to maintain farmers’ access to tools and technology.

“We’ve seen a significant decline in the number of small-to-medium sized family farms. Fewer farmers means that the agribusiness industry that supports the farm community has fewer customers—resulting in consolidation beyond the farm gate. The speed at which the industry continues to consolidate, and the tenuous state of our farm economy, dictate that we work diligently to ensure that our farmers will still have access to a range of technologies without suffering higher costs,” the written testimony states.



 NFU Asks Senate Judiciary Panel for More Oversight of Failing Antitrust Enforcement in Agriculture

National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson today joined a panel of industry leaders to testify before members of the Senate Judiciary Committee about the alarming trend of consolidation in agriculture.

Less than a week after 275 NFU members were on Capitol Hill requesting review of the staggering volume of mergers and acquisitions in the seed and agrochemical industry, the Committee convened a hearing to review consolidation and competition in this sector.

“NFU has been concerned about the long-term trends of consolidation in the agricultural inputs sector; specifically, the wave of merger and acquisition announcements involving five of the ‘Big Six’ seed and agrochemical companies,” Johnson told members of the committee. “These mergers will surely result in less competition, less innovation and higher prices, jeopardizing family farmers’ and ranchers’ ability to provide for our nation at a time when the farm sector is already hurting.”

Since February of this year, industry megadeals have been announced between Syngenta AG and China National Chemical Corporation, Dow Chemical Co. and DuPont Co., and Bayer AG and Monsanto Co. According to market data, these deals would result in a combined three companies controlling more than 80 percent market share of the U.S. corn seed sales and 70 percent of the global pesticide market.

“The hands-off approach we’ve seen in antitrust enforcement has led to the highly consolidated economic conditions prevalent today and the resulting vulnerability of American farmers. We must do more to prevent consolidation that results in a few firms controlling substantial percentage of market share,” Johnson said.

Johnson explained that the mergers occurring in the seed and agrochemical sector are only part of the story of mass consolidation happening across the industry. Unfortunately, the continued trend of consolidation is adding to rural job loss, increasing costs for producers, and reducing competition among only a few companies in each sector.

“The nation’s antitrust enforcement has clearly failed farmers, ranchers, rural communities, and consumers. We will continue to work with this Committee, all of Congress, and the Administration to encourage greater oversight of this concerning issue,” Johnson concluded.



American Farm Bureau Urges Caution on Ag Mergers

Farmers and ranchers know market forces have led to major-company mergers like Bayer-Monsanto, but they cannot afford to lose access to technology and innovation if they go through, American Farm Bureau Federation Chief Economist Dr. Bob Young told the Senate Judiciary Committee today.

"AFBF has had several--and repeated--assurances from the companies involved as to their intent to maintain as strong an innovation arm as they can," Young said. "We have no reason to doubt, but we also are reminded of the old line: trust, but verify."

Young noted the market for seeds, chemicals and crop nutrients is poised to shrink from six major companies to just three. He asked that regulators review these mergers not only in light of market concentration, but also the structure of the entire industry in a post-merger environment.

"Everyone's knee-jerk reaction is to think that increased concentration will lead to higher prices for these inputs," Young said. "Knees tend to jerk reflexively, but sometimes they jerk with reason."



Monsanto Statement on Senate Judiciary Hearing on “Consolidation and Competition in the U.S. Seed and Agrochemical Industry”

On September 20, 2016, Monsanto Company participated in a panel discussion as part of the Senate Committee on the Judiciary Hearing on “Consolidation and Competition in the U.S. Seed and Agrochemical Industry.” The hearing represented an opportunity for Monsanto to offer its perspective on the state of agriculture and the importance of innovation.

Robb Fraley, executive vice president and chief technology officer of Monsanto delivered remarks on behalf of the company. Fraley’s complete comments are available on Monsanto’s website. As part of his remarks, Fraley showcased the critical role of innovation in agriculture, addressed why continued investment in the sector matters now more than ever, and underscored the valuable role U.S. farmers play in supporting the needs of our planet.

Fraley shared the following remarks related to the Senate Committee’s session:

“Monsanto welcomed the opportunity to discuss this exciting new era in agriculture.  We appreciated the chance to participate in this important dialogue with Chairman Grassley and the Judiciary Committee.  We believe agriculture innovation is central to delivering tremendous benefits to farmers and society and look forward to engaging with all stakeholders.”

“We are committed to serving farmers and investing in a broad range of solutions that can help their farming operations. The role of innovation has never been more important to agriculture. The fields of biology and data science are opening up a range of new solutions for farmers.  And, farmers are faced with meeting the growing food, feed and fiber needs of an ever-increasing population in an increasingly sustainable way and helping agriculture keep up with global challenges such as climate change.”

“I understand that change can be unsettling to farmers – I saw that firsthand when I helped invent the first crops developed through genetic modification (e.g. GMO crops). Importantly, just like then, I’ve found that change enables more innovation and delivers better products to the farm even faster. We continue to believe that farmers are best served when companies invest more in new technologies and accelerate the pace of their research and development, which in turn spurs robust competition. Innovation drives competition.  Innovation strengthens the farming economy.  And innovation lifts our society.”  



Senate Report Highlights EPA Enforcement of WOTUS Rule
 
Today, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee released their report highlighting examples of EPA illegally asserting jurisdiction over features traditionally exempt from the Clean Water Act. Despite the fact that the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals continues their nationwide stay on enforcement of EPA’s “waters of the United States” final rule, the report demonstrates that EPA is in fact, enforcing the WOTUS rule and expanding jurisdiction beyond congressional intent. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Tracy Brunner said this report is conclusive evidence of EPA’s continued efforts to expand their jurisdiction over all waters.

“While the Courts have temporarily suspended enforcement and implementation of the rule, the EPA continues to exercise federal control over private land in a way that erodes the agricultural exemptions in the Clean Water Act,” said Brunner. “This report clearly shows that EPA continues to regulate private property, including ditches and furrows, without any statutory or legal justification.”

For cattle producers, the report highlights two cases where EPA took enforcement action against normal farming and ranching activities which are exempt from the Clean Water Act. In one instance, EPA intervened when a California rancher plowed crop land that was previously used for cattle grazing. In that matter, EPA noted that by plowing, the rancher created furrow tops that served as ‘uplands’ and ‘served as small mountain ranges’ which disqualified the plowing from the agricultural exemption. In the second instance, a rancher who created a stock pond was informed the pond was too ‘aesthetic’ and therefore fell outside the stock pond exemption.

“While EPA has consistently claimed that the WOTUS rule preserves the exemptions for normal farming and ranching activities, their regulatory track record proves the exact opposite,” said Brunner. “The broad and undefined terms of the WOTUS rule have created regulatory uncertainty for producers and given EPA complete subjective control in defining their jurisdiction over every drop of water in the United States.”

Prior to a Senate vote on legislation to fix the WOTUS Rule, 11 Senators sent a letter to the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers asserting that they reserve the right to support efforts to revise the rule, should EPA enforcement erode traditional exemptions. The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee report clearly highlights examples of the agencies doing just that. NCBA calls on these 11 Senators to work together with the Committee to forge a compromise that will bring regulatory certainty to cattle producers and preserve the agricultural exemptions of the Clean Water Act.



Statement by Zippy Duvall, President, American Farm Bureau Federation, Regarding Senate Report on Federal Overreach Under Clean Water Act

"The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works today released a report that exposes the administration's reckless and unlawful actions in enforcing the Clean Water Act. The report shows in detail how the Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers have used an overly expansive interpretation of their authority to regulate 'waters of the U.S.'

"The case studies presented in the report reflect the serious concerns we have raised for more than two years now: the new 'Waters of the U.S.' rule takes the EPA's and Corps' longstanding regulatory overreach and gives it a new name. The agencies have persistently and unlawfully stretched the limited authority Congress gave them, even to the point of regulating ordinary plowing, a normal farming activity exempted by Congress. They have even claimed authority to regulate tire ruts and puddles found on the farm.

"The Waters of the U.S. rule, now stayed in federal court, will cement that lawless expansion of authority unless Congress acts to stop it. The time to rein in these agencies is now.

"The committee report shows numerous and disturbing examples of agency staff overstepping their authority: One farmer is ordered to abandon his field because his ordinary plowing is declared a violation of the Clean Water Act. Another is told he must preserve tire ruts caused by his own vehicle as a wetland, never to disturb them again. Still another farmer is ordered to abandon his plans to plant fruit trees because he had not planted trees on his land before.

"Eleven senators last year wrote to the EPA and Corps. They told the agencies that they would watch carefully how they implemented existing law, even before the WOTUS rule takes effect. They told the agencies if they did not provide clarity or eroded traditional exemptions, they could move against the rule. This report is the proof.

"It's as clear to us now as it has ever been: It's time for the Senate to Ditch the Rule. The Senate should once again take up S. 1140 at its earliest opportunity."



August Milk Production in the United States up 1.9 Percent

Milk production in the United States during August totaled 17.7 billion pounds, up 1.9 percent from August 2015.  Production per cow in the United States averaged 1,895 pounds for August, 27 pounds above August 2015.  The number of milk cows on farms in the United States was 9.36 million head,
45,000 head more than August 2015, and 16,000 head more than July 2016.

IOWA:
Milk production in Iowa during August 2016 totaled 416 million pounds, up 3 percent from the previous August according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Milk Production report. The average number of milk cows during August, at 211,000 head, was the same as both last month and last year. Monthly production per cow averaged 1,970 pounds, up 55 pounds from last August.



Buis Receives America’s Fuel Award

Last night, former Growth Energy CEO and current co-chairman of the Growth Energy Board of Directors, Tom Buis, was presented with the America’s Fuel award. The award is the highest honor given by Growth Energy, and is presented to an individual who has made significant contributions to the growth and well-being of the ethanol industry.

Buis served as Growth Energy’s CEO for seven years, and was an instrumental figure in advancing the ethanol industry to where it is today. His many achievements include: advocating for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS); submitting and receiving approval on the Green Jobs Waiver to allow E15 into 21st century engines; the launch of Prime the Pump and Growth Energy’s work with the USDA Biofuels Infrastructure Program to bring blender pumps into the marketplace; foreign market development initiatives and trade missions to expand ethanol globally; organizing the collection of tens of thousands of comments to the U.S. EPA for the 2014-16 proposed Renewable Volume Obligation rule that eventually led to the breaking of the so-called “blend wall” and many more.

Growth Energy CEO, Emily Skor, said of Buis, “It is because of Tom’s hard work and dedication that Growth Energy is the leading voice of the ethanol industry. He laid the foundation for a dynamic organization that began as a startup and is now the largest association of ethanol producers and supporters. His passion and dedication are an asset to this industry, and we are thankful that he will serve as co-chairman of the board of directors.”

Jeff Broin, CEO of POET and Co-chairman of Growth Energy’s Board of Directors, noted “Tom Buis has been a tremendous asset to Growth Energy and the entire renewable fuels industry. He has fought morning noon and night to advance the boundless potential of biofuels and agriculture.”

Broin continued, “His passion and relentless pursuit of advancing biofuels has demonstrated a commitment to the cause that is extraordinary, and the industry would not be as vibrant as it is today without his dedication and perseverance. I can think of no one more deserving of Growth Energy’s highest award and look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role as co-chair of the board of directors.”

General Wesley Clark (Ret.), a member of the Growth Energy board of directors added, “From the first time I met Tom, I could see he was a man driven to advance biofuels and their associated benefits, including environmental improvements, economic growth and a reduction in our dangerous dependence on foreign oil. There is no greater champion for the biofuels industry than Tom Buis – his commitment and character is unquestionable. Tom is a true leader and we are lucky to have him fighting for this industry day in and day out.”



AEM, EDA Release Used Equipment Survey Results

Survey results are now available from the Association of Equipment Manufacturers and the Equipment Dealers Association about the levels of new and used agriculture equipment inventory currently on the market. Each organization conducted surveys with their respective membership.

AEM's data results revealed that, since 2014, the ag equipment manufacturers surveyed believe that new and used inventory levels are decreasing overall. This trend is consistent with EDA's ag equipment dealer survey results for the second quarter of 2016. In the second quarter of 2016, 79 percent of manufacturers felt that inventory levels (new and used combined) were stable or falling. Approximately 75 percent of dealers felt the same.

However, perceptions on dealer inventories differ between the two groups.

Currently, 43.1 percent of manufacturers believe that dealer inventories are about right, and 36.2 percent believe that dealer inventories are too high. In contrast, the majority of equipment dealers believe, despite the apparent down-trend in inventory levels, that both their new and used inventories are too high. 62 percent of dealers believe new inventory is too high and 59 percent believe used inventory is too high.



U.S. beef and dairy producers must remain vigilant to mycotoxin threats

The U.S. is expecting a large corn crop, projected as high as 15.09 billion bushels, and the 2016 wheat crop yields have been at or near record levels in several wheat classes. However, Alltech mycotoxin expert Dr. Max Hawkins has a warning: Quantity should not distract producers from being vigilant regarding quality and the potential for mycotoxin risk.

Hawkins noted the spring wheat harvest across the northern Great Plains experienced wet weather, which led to increased crop stress and Fusarium head blight. Likewise, much of the U.S. Corn Belt experienced above average temperatures and moisture through August, creating the right environment for mold and subsequent mycotoxin issues.

Alltech recently collected more than 100 TMR samples from the U.S. and analyzed them through the ISO/ IEC 17025:2005 accredited Alltech 37+® mycotoxin analytical services laboratory, using LCMS/ MS technology to determine mycotoxin presence and growth through the storage months. The 37+ analysis tests for over 37 individual mycotoxins in a given sample and shows the risk that mycotoxins in stored crops can pose to herd health and performance.

Of the samples, nearly 18 percent contained 6–7 mycotoxins, 42 percent had 4–5 mycotoxins, 35 percent had 2–3 mycotoxins, and less than 2 percent had either one mycotoxin or none. Of the mycotoxins present, type B trichothecenes and fusaric acid were most prevalent in 83 percent and 92 percent of the samples respectively.

The toxicity of Fusaric Acid is significantly enhanced when feed is co-contaminated with type B trichothecene or DON. Together, the mycotoxins present in the sample group have a REQ, or risk equivalent quantity, of 187 for beef cattle and 211 for dairy cows. For the dairy cows, this level of risk could represent a 0.5-liter loss in milk production per cow per day.

Symptoms in a herd dealing with type B trichothecenes and fusaric acid might include:
    Anorexia
    Depression
    Diarrheaand other digestive disorders
    Udder edema
    Enlarged mammary glands
    Feed refusal
    Increased somatic cell count
    Increased mortality
    Infertility
    Hemorrhaging
    Lameness
    Lethargy
    Liver damage
    Malformation of the embryo
    Poor antioxidant status
    Reduced milk production, feed efficiency, feed intake, growth, immunity, reproductive performance and rumen function
    Skin lesions
    Stillbirths
    Vomiting

“The inventory of the 2015 crop is almost fed, and we look forward to the 2016 crop,” said Hawkins. “However, even with a huge crop awaiting, quantity does not indicate quality. Producers should be proactive in investigating and identifying potential issues that can impact herd performance and health.”

Derek Wawack, a member of the Alltech Mycotoxin Management team in Wisconsin, noted that he has been fielding an increasing number of calls, emails and texts about fungal infections.

“Within just the last couple weeks, these fungal infections have really started to show as the summer has progressed,” said Wawack. “Stress from dry to overly-wet conditions, then cooler weather, has allowed these molds to begin growing on the ears.”

Wawack recommends carrying out a 37+ analysis early, even on fresh crop, if possible, and monitoring throughout feed out to stay ahead of any major problems.

“Years where we have seen high levels of both Fusarium and Penicillium in the field have typically led to high mycotoxin levels in storage,” continued Wawack.

“The results have been drastic production losses, loose manure, edema, bloat, conception problems, abortions, bloodshot eyes, bleeding from the ears and nasal passages and even high mortality rates, along with false positive antibiotic tests within milk from the Penicillium mold.”

Further information on managing the threat from mycotoxins can be found at www.knowmycotoxins.com/mycotoxins/managing-threat. 



Dr. Deborah Murray Receives 2016 Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award

Deborah Murray, DVM, has been named the recipient of the 2016 Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award. Zoetis presented the award to Dr. Murray at the 2016 Allen D. Leman Swine Conference which is hosted by the University of Minnesota in St. Paul, Minn. The award is given annually to a veterinarian who is dedicated to research and applies scientific knowledge to help improve the pork industry.

As the Veterinary Services manager for New Fashion Pork in Jackson, Minn., Dr. Murray oversees the health and wellness of nearly 59,000 sows. With operations in six states, New Fashion Pork markets nearly 1.4 million pigs per year.

When it comes to treatment protocols, vaccination programs and troubleshooting illness on the farm, Dr. Murray takes a science-based approach to finding solutions.

“One of the most rewarding things about veterinary medicine for me is problem-solving,” Dr. Murray said. “When you’re able to pinpoint health issues among the herd and incorporate research to find solutions to those problems, you’re increasing the overall health of the herd and making progress in the pork industry.”

Dr. Murray has been helping make progress in the pork industry since 2006 when she graduated from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, where she also received her certificate in swine medicine. She earned the AASV Young Swine Veterinarian of the Year award in 2012 and completed the Executive Veterinary Program earlier this year.

“Because of her dedication to improve swine health and production along with her commitment to research, we’re pleased to honor Dr. Murray with this award,” said Michael Kuhn, DVM, MBA, director, U.S. Pork Technical Services, Zoetis. “I am confident that Dr. Murray will continue to positively influence the pork industry with her innovative thinking and passion for pig health.”

The Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award is named after a former University of Minnesota veterinarian who dedicated his career to improving the pork industry and the education of practicing veterinarians. After Dr. Leman’s death in 1992, the annual conference that he co-founded was named in his honor.

Over the past 20 years, this award has been given to some of the most accomplished veterinary leaders in the swine industry. As part of the ongoing Zoetis Commitment to Veterinarians™, this award helps signify the company’s support of and investment in recognizing leaders and promoting the future of the veterinary profession.