Wednesday October 12 Ag News

NEBRASKA CROP PRODUCTION REPORT

Based on October 1 conditions, Nebraska's 2016 corn production is forecast at a record high 1.72 billion bushels, up 2 percent from last year, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Acreage harvested for grain is estimated at 9.50 million acres, up 4 percent from a year ago. Average yield is forecast at 181 bushels per acre, down 4 bushels from last year.

Soybean production in Nebraska is forecast at a record high 314 million bushels, 3 percent above last year. Area for harvest, at 5.15 million acres, is down 2 percent from 2015. Record yield is forecast at 61 bushels per acre, up 3 bushels from a year ago.

Sorghum production of 15.1 million bushels is down 34 percent from a year ago. Area for grain harvest of 170,000 acres is down 29 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 89 bushels per acre, down 7 bushels from last year.

Alfalfa hay production, at 3.04 million tons, is down 11 percent from the 2015 crop. Area for harvest, at 800,000 acres, is down 6 percent from a year ago. Yield, at 3.80 tons per acre, is down 0.20 ton from 2015. All Other Hay production, at 3.06 million tons, is up 3 percent from 2015. Area for harvest, at 1.80 million acres, is down 3 percent from a year ago. Record yield, at 1.70 tons per acre, is up 0.10 ton from last year.



IOWA CROP PRODUCTION REPORT

Iowa corn production is forecast at 2.67 billion bushels according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Crop Production report. If realized, production would be a record high, surpassing last year’s record of 2.51 billion bushels. Based on conditions as of October 1, yields are expected to average 198 bushels per acre, up 2 bushels from the September forecast, and 6 bushels per acre higher than last year. If realized, yield would set a new record high for a second consecutive year. The estimated area planted and harvested dropped 100,000 acres from September to 13.9 million and 13.5 million acres, respectively.

 Corn forecasted production is up in all 9 Iowa districts from 2015 and yields are forecasted to be higher in 7 districts. East Central Iowa is anticipated to have the highest yield in the State with 208.0 bushels per acre. The largest increase in production is expected in Central Iowa, where production is anticipated to increase 34.2 million bushels from 2015.  The average corn yield in the west-central district is expected to come in at 193 bu/acre, slightly below last year's yield.

Soybean production is forecast at 551 million bushels. If realized, this will be second largest crop on record, 2.7 million bushels below last year’s record high. The October 1 yield forecast is a record high 58 bushels per acre, 1.5 bushels more than the previous record set last year. The estimated area planted and harvested dropped 150,000 acres from September, to 9.55 million and 9.50 million acres, respectively.

 Soybean production is forecast to be up in 5 Iowa districts and yields are forecasted to be higher in 7 districts from the previous year. East Central Iowa is expected to have the highest yield in the State with 60.5 bushels per acre. All three southern Iowa districts are anticipated to have higher yields and production than last year, while all three northern districts are expected to have lower production than last year. The largest increase in production is expected in South Central Iowa, where production is expected to exceed last year by 6.40 million bushels.  Soybean yields are expected to average 57 bu/acre in the west-central district, which would be a 0.7 bushels higher than last year.

Iowa hay yield for alfalfa and alfalfa mixtures is expected to be 4.50 tons per acre with a total production of 3.38 million tons, a production increase of 12 percent from the previous year. If realized, the yield would establish a new record high, surpassing the previous record yield of 4.20 tons per acre set in 2004. The projected yield for other hay is 2.20 tons, 0.20 ton per acre below last year. Forecasted production, at 770,000 tons, is down 18 percent from 2015.

All crop forecasts in this report are based on October 1 conditions and do not reflect weather effects since that time. The next production forecasts, based on conditions as of November 1, will be released on November 9.



USDA:  Corn Production Down Slightly from September Forecast; Soybean Production Up 2 Percent

Corn production is forecast at 15.1 billion bushels, up 11 percent from last year but down slightly from the September forecast. Based on conditions as of October 1, yields are expected to average 173.4 bushels per acre, down 1 bushel from the September forecast but up 5 bushels from 2015. If realized, this will be the highest yield and production on record for the United States. Area harvested for grain is forecast at 86.8 million acres, up slightly from the September forecast and up 8 percent from 2015. Acreage updates were made in several States following a thorough review of all available data.

Soybean production is forecast at a record 4.27 billion bushels, up 2 percent from September and up 9 percent from last year. Based on October 1 conditions, yields are expected to average a record 51.4 bushels per acre, up 0.8 bushel from last month and up 3.4 bushels from last year. Area for harvest in the United States is forecast at a record 83.0 million acres, up slightly from September and up 2 percent from 2015. Acreage updates were made in several States based on a thorough review of all available data.



Iowa, U.S. soybean farmers harvest colossal crop

The nation’s soybean crop keeps growing. Fortunately for Iowa soybean farmers, so does demand, according to industry analysts and government reports released today.

“I’ve seen so much excitement and interest from around the world about our products,” said Iowa Soybean Association President Rolland Schnell, who farms near Newton. “International and domestic demand for soybeans, meal and oil continues to grow because buyers understand we have a high quality product that can be delivered on time. That gives me faith sales will stay strong and prices will increase.”

U.S. soybean production is forecast at an all-time high 4.27 billion bushels, according to the October U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Crop Production Report. That’s up 2 percent from last month and 9 percent higher than last year’s record harvest.

Soybean yields nationwide, due to near ideal growing conditions in much of the Midwest, are expected to average a record 51.4 bushels per acre, the report said.  That’s nearly 1 bushel more than last month’s estimate and 3.4 bushels above last year.

Iowa farmers are in the process of harvesting their best soybean crop ever, according to the report. Production and yields, which remained unchanged from last month, are estimated at 551 million bushels and 58 bushels per acre, respectively.

“I’m seeing everything from astonishing to good yields, and good quality as well,” Schnell said.

Luckily for soybean farmers, analysts say demand is nearly matching production.

“For soybeans, we’re on a record pace to get things sold,” said Al Kluis, owner of Kluis Commodities of Wayzata, Minnesota.

U.S. Soybean exports for 2016/17 are projected to exceed 2 billion bushels for the time, according to the USDA World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) Report. That’s a 40-million-bushel increase from last month.

The domestic soybean crush is forecast at a record 1.95 billion bushels, unchanged from last month, the WASDE Report indicates. Ending stocks for 2016/17 are estimated at 395 million bushels, data shows.

Even though ending stock estimates for the current marketing year increased 30 million bushels from last month and are nearly double last year’s final tally, industry experts don’t consider them highly burdensome given strong sales.

“It’s the first year we’ve produced a 4-billion-bushel crop and the first time more than 4 billion bushels will be used,” Kluis said.

The favorable stocks-to-use ratio is one reason soybean prices haven’t hit rock bottom after three record crops in a row, industry officials say. Prices are projected at $8.30 to $9.80 per bushel, according to government estimates.

ISA Market Development Director Grant Kimberley said there’s plenty of reasons for soybean farmers to be optimistic. A record number of soybean buyers visited Iowa this fall and several of the largest soybean processors in China, the world’s largest importer of beans, will ink purchase agreements Friday during the World Food Prize in Des Moines.

“Demand is increasing,” Kimberley said. “The Chinese have plans to move 70 million citizens into the middle class in five to 10 years. They are going to eat more eggs, milk and meat that will require more soybeans to produce.”



Growing Exports Offer Bright Spot in USDA Corn Production Report

Corn production is forecast at 15.057 billion bushels, down 36 million from last month, according to the World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates Report released today by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Corn supplies for 2016/17 are lowered from last month, but are still forecast at a record 16.845 billion bushels.

"We must pass the Trans-Pacific Partnership this year. The farm economy continues to struggle so anything we can do to encourage and grow exports is critical," said Wesley Spurlock, President of National Corn Growers Association. "That's why NCGA continues to encourage our elected officials to build trade access starting with TPP."

USDA reduced the average U.S. corn yield by 1 bushel per acre to 173.4. If realized, these figures would still represent record yield and production numbers. The average price was increased by 5 cents to $3.25 per bushel.

"Although the production report remained largely unchanged, the export numbers offer some good news in a growing season so far characterized by a large crop and corn prices below the cost of production," Spurlock said.  "U.S. corn exports are doing well, largely due to South American weather problems that are hurting crops in Brazil and Argentina. Asian countries like Japan and Korea are shifting to the U.S. to meet their needs so that's good news for the nation's family corn farmers."

Feed and residual usage, ethanol and other FSI, were unchanged. Carry-in was increased by 22 million bushels.



USDA's World Ag Supply and Demand Estimates - Oct 12, 2016

COARSE GRAINS:  This month’s 2016/17 U.S. corn outlook is for lower production, increased exports, reduced stocks, and higher prices.  Corn production is forecast at 15.057 billion bushels, down 36  million from last month as a lower forecast yield more than offsets an increase in harvested area. Corn supplies for 2016/17 are down slightly to 16.845 billion bushels, as a lower crop more than offsets a small increase in beginning stocks based on the September 30 Grain Stocks report.  Exports are raised 50 million bushels, reflecting current U.S. export commitments that are well above a year ago.  Corn ending stocks are down 63 million bushels.  The projected range for the season-average corn price received by producers is raised 5 cents on both ends to $2.95 to $3.55 per bushel.

Grain sorghum production is forecast 22 million bushels below last month, as a forecast 1.5-bushel per acre increase in yield to a record 77.2 bushels per acre is more than offset by lower harvested area, with the largest reduction in Texas.  Barley production is raised 10 million bushels and oat production is down 12 million bushels based on the Small Grains report.  Grain sorghum prices in 2016/17 are projected to average $2.80 to $3.40 per bushel, up 5 cents on both ends of the range.

Global coarse grain production for 2016/17 is forecast down 5.0 million tons to 1,314.8 million.  This month’s 2016/17 foreign coarse grain outlook is for lower production, higher consumption, increased trade, and lower stocks relative to last month.  Brazil corn production is raised on higher area, based on the latest Companhia Nacional de Abastecimento (CONAB) report indicating a forecast level of first crop corn area above prior expectations.  Corn and barley production are lowered for the EU, while domestic feed demand and competitive world corn prices underpin larger projected imports.  Russia barley production is down based on the latest government harvest reports.

Corn exports are raised for Brazil and Argentina, with larger projected supplies in the former and an expected increase in the relative competitiveness of both countries for the local marketing year that begins March 2017.  Other large month-to-month increases in corn imports are forecast for Iran, Vietnam, and Mexico.  Foreign corn ending stocks for 2016/17 are lowered 1.0 million tons, with the largest stock declines in Argentina and Ukraine.  Global corn stocks are projected 2.7 million tons lower to 216.8 million, but are still record high.

OILSEEDS:  U.S. oilseed production for 2016/17 is projected at 126.2 million tons, up 1.9 million from last month with increased soybean, canola, and sunflowerseed production partly offset with lower cottonseed and peanuts.  Soybean production is forecast at 4,269 million bushels, up 68 million mainly on higher yields.  The soybean yield is projected at 51.4 bushels per acre, up 0.8 bushels from the September forecast.  Soybean supplies for 2016/17 are projected 70 million bushels above last month with slightly higher beginning stocks adding to higher production.

U.S. soybean exports for 2016/17 are projected at 2,025 million bushels, up 40 million with increased supplies.  An offsetting reduction is forecast for Argentina soybean exports.  With soybean crush unchanged, ending stocks for 2016/17 are projected at 395 million bushels, up 30 million from last month.  The soybean price is projected at $8.30 to $9.80 per bushel, unchanged from last month.  Soybean meal and soybean oil price projections are also unchanged at $300 to $340 per short ton and 30.5 to 33.5 cents per pound, respectively.

Global oilseed production for 2016/17 is projected at 548.1 million tons, up 3.6 million from last month mainly on higher soybean production.  Global soybean production is projected at a record 333.2 million tons, up 2.8 million with higher forecasts for the United States, Brazil, and Canada partly offset by a reduction for Russia.  Brazil soybean production is projected at a record 102.0 million tons on higher area reflecting the most recent CONAB survey.  The soybean crop in Canada is raised on higher expected area and yields.  The soybean crop in Russia is projected lower on the most recent harvest results.  Rapeseed production for Canada is projected at 18.5 million tons, up 0.5 million based on the most recent analysis from Statistics Canada.  Rapeseed production is also increased for Australia on higher expected yields.  Other oilseed production changes include higher sunflowerseed production for Turkey, higher cottonseed production for Australia, and lower cottonseed production for Brazil.  Malaysia palm oil production is reduced for 2015/16 based on final production data, and for 2016/17 with the impact of reduced rainfall continuing to affect yields.

With increased global beginning stocks and production, 2016/17 oilseed supplies are projected 1 percent higher than last month.  With crush mostly unchanged, global oilseed stocks for 2016/17 are projected at 88.1 million tons, up 5.3 million mainly on higher soybean stocks in the United States, Brazil, Argentina, and China.

WHEAT:  Projected U.S. ending stocks for 2016/17 are raised 38 million bushels as reduced supplies are more than offset by lower projected use.  Production for 2016/17 is lowered 11 million bushels based on the latest estimate from the NASS September 30 Small Grains Annual Summary.  Feed and residual use is reduced 70 million bushels to 260 million reflecting the September 1 stocks that indicated lower-than-expected June-August disappearance.  Exports are raised 25 million bushels on increased competitiveness of U.S. wheat particularly in North Africa where the EU has lost some market share because of lower production and quality problems.  The marketing year average price received by producers is raised $0.10 per bushel at the midpoint to a range of $3.50 to $3.90 on higher-than-expected NASS prices to date. 

Global wheat supplies for 2016/17 are lowered 1.6 million tons on a 0.4-million-ton production decrease and lower beginning stocks.  A 2.0-million-ton production decline for the EU is partially offset by a 1.0-million-ton increase for Canada and a 0.8-million-ton increase for Australia.  The Australia increase is attributed to continued excellent growing conditions, and yields are projected to be record high.  Global exports are raised 1.9 million tons led by a 1.0-million-ton increase for Australia, a 0.7-million-ton increase for the United States, and 0.5-million-ton increases each for Canada and Ukraine.  Global export gains are partially offset by a 1.0-million-ton decrease for the EU on the projected supply reduction.  Global use for 2016/17 is down 1.0 million tons led by reductions in feed use for the United States and the EU.  With total supplies declining more than use, world ending stocks are reduced 0.7 million tons but remain record large. 

LIVESTOCK, POULTRY, AND DAIRY:  The forecast for total red meat and poultry production for 2016 is reduced from last month as slightly higher beef and pork production is more than offset by lower broiler production.  No change is made to turkey production.  Beef production is raised on higher expected slaughter although carcass weights are reduced slightly.  Pork production for 2016 is raised on the pace of third quarter slaughter.  Broiler production is lowered as recent production data points towards continued slow growth in bird weights.  For 2017, the total red meat and poultry product forecast was raised, primarily due to higher pork production.  Beef production is raised based on expectations of higher first-quarter slaughter, but the broiler production forecast was lowered on more moderate growth in production continuing from 2016. The turkey production forecast was unchanged.  Egg production forecasts for 2016 or 2017 were raised on continued growth in table-egg laying flocks.

Beef import and export forecasts for 2016 and 2017 were raised as slightly larger supplies of beef in a number of exporting countries support higher imports and lower U.S. beef prices make the United States more competitive in world markets.  The pork export forecast for 2017 is raised on expectations of higher sales to Asia.  Broiler and turkey export forecasts are unchanged for 2016 and 2017.

Cattle, hog, broiler, and turkey prices for the last quarter of 2016 are reduced from last month as supplies of product are large.  For 2017, the continued large supplies of beef, pork, and broiler meat are expected to pressure prices through the year.  Egg prices are also reduced for both 2016 and 2017.

The milk production forecasts for 2016 and 2017 are raised from last month as the cow inventory has grown more rapidly than previously expected.  The higher cow inventories appear to reflect growth in herds supplying expanding dairy product facilities.  Import forecasts for 2016 and 2017 are raised on higher expected imports of butter and several other dairy products.  Exports are forecast higher as increases in Oceania prices and relatively low U.S. prices are expected to make the United States more competitive in world markets.  Ending stocks are reduced as lower prices encourage increased demand from both export and domestic markets.

Cheese and butter price forecasts for 2016 and 2017 have been lowered due to higher expected milk supplies.  However, nonfat dry milk (NDM) and whey will likely benefit from increased competitiveness in export markets, and stronger exports will help support prices of those products.  Thus, price forecasts for NDM and whey are raised from last month.  Class III and Class IV prices are lowered from last month as lower cheese prices more than offset the higher whey price in the Class III calculation and the lower butter price outweighs the NDM price increase in the calculation of the Class IV price.  All milk prices are forecast lower at $15.80 to $15.90 per cwt for 2016 and $15.55 to $16.45 per cwt for 2017.



Researchers earn patent for soybean variety that may save industry millions of dollars a year

If parasites want to get to soybeans, they'll have to go through Kansas State University researchers first.

Harold N. Trick, professor of plant pathology; Timothy C. Todd, instructor of plant pathology; and Jiarui Li, research assistant professor in plant pathology, have designed and patented a soybean variety that protects from nematode parasitic infestation.

Soybeans are the second largest crop in the U.S. and bring in about $37 billion each year. But nematode parasites — the No. 1 soybean disease in the nation — plague the crop with stunting, chlorosis, wilting and higher susceptibility to other diseases. The new variety from Kansas State University could potentially save the soybean industry millions of dollars per year.

"Basically, we've designed a soybean variety that fights back against parasites," Trick said. "It affects nematodes by stopping their reproduction cycles."

The researchers identified genes in nematodes that are necessary to the parasite's function and survival. They then developed a soybean variety that silences those genes.

"We have found a solution that controls nematodes and is more durable and broadly applicable than traditional resistance," Todd said. "The other really cool thing about this approach is it's specific to the nematode, so no one has to worry about it causing any type of damage beyond stopping the parasite. It's very environmentally friendly."

The patent was issued to the Kansas State University Research Foundation, a nonprofit corporation responsible for managing technology transfer activities at the university.

The project received seed funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and also has been funded by the North Central Soybean Research Program and the United Soybean Board. The work continues to receive funding from a long-term supporter, the Kansas Soybean Commission.

The researchers' next steps are to continue refining the soybean variety, identify a commercial partner and make the crop variety available to farmers. Their approach also showed promising results for controlling nematodes in anthurium, a floral plant, so the technology could potentially control nematode problems in other crops as well, according to Li.



ISU Extension and Outreach to Host Aquaculture Conference

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will host the 2016 Iowa Aquaculture Conference on Nov. 17 to provide farmers information about Iowa’s newest livestock industry. The event, sponsored by the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers and the North Central Regional Aquaculture Center, will be held at the Quality Inn & Suites in Ames from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Aquaculture is a way for farmers to diversify and grow, especially at a time when commodity prices are low and land costs are still relatively high,” said CSIF Executive Director Brian Waddingham. “We are seeing an increase in calls from farmers interested in aquaculture. One farmer, for example, wanted to know how to retrofit an old hog barn to raise shrimp, so he called CSIF to discuss his options. It’s an exciting new industry with a lot of opportunity, but because it’s so new, it’s important to learn as much as possible before diving in. That’s the goal of this conference.”

The event will include a wide range of topics for farmers to consider including
-    opportunities in aquaculture;
-    the role of cooperatives;
-    rules and regulations for fish farms;
-    permits needed to buy and sell fish and shrimp;
-    how to develop a business plan for a farm;
-    how to structure business, marketing, and production systems;
-    water chemistry;
-    fish health and
-    shrimp culture.

There also will be a farmer panel who will share their experiences and offer their insights on aquaculture.

The conference speakers include Mike Naig, Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture; Bill Lynch, Millcreek Perch Farms; Bridget Owen, Soy Aquaculture Alliance; Andrew Ray, Kentucky State University; Brian Waddingham, Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers; Alan Johnson, Iowa DNR; Mark Speltz, Iowa Department of Inspection and Appeals; Jim Venner, Ag Visions; Tricia Janes, Small Business Development Center; Dan Burden, Allen Pattillo, David Starling and Joe Morris from Iowa State University.

Registration, including a complimentary lunch, is free if completed by Nov. 11. A $20 fee will be charged for registrations after that date. Registration can be done online or by calling 800-932-2436. Register quickly as space is limited.

Additional information can be found at www.supportfarmers.com.



Extension Will Brief Ag Retailers on Crop Production Research, Management Recommendations

Seed, chemical and fertilizer dealers, agronomists, crop consultants and farm managers have the opportunity to hear the latest information on weed management for 2017, pest resistance, corn disease outlook and nitrogen recommendations at the 2016 Ag Chemical Dealer Update meetings.

The meetings will be held in Iowa City on Nov. 22 and in Ames on Dec. 7. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach specialists will provide the most up-to-date recommendations and address future crop production challenges.

Last year, the Ag Chemical Dealer Update meetings drew more than 200 ag retailers from agribusinesses across Iowa. The meetings qualify for Certified Crop Adviser continuing education credits and provides recertification for Commercial Pesticide Applicators in categories 1A, 1B, 1C and 10.

The pest resistance presentation at both locations will focus on soybean aphids and corn rootworms, and the weed management segment will have an emphasis on waterhemp management and herbicide resistance.

“The focus of the weed management discussion will be on how to develop weed management programs that provide consistent weed control while slowing the rate that weeds adapt to the tactics,” said Bob Hartzler, professor in agronomy and extension weed specialist at Iowa State University. “The goal is that attendees will appreciate the need to implement diversified weed management programs and the knowledge to help their customers implement integrated weed management programs.”

Early registration is $70 if received by midnight, Nov. 15, for the Iowa City meeting or Nov. 30 for the Ames meeting. Late or on-site registration is $85. Visit www.aep.iastate.edu/acu to register online and for more program details.

The Iowa City meeting will be held at the Clarion Highlander Hotel and Conference Center, located at 2525 N Dodge St. Check-in will open at 8:30 a.m., with coffee, juice and refreshments. The program is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at 4:15 p.m. For more information, contact ISU Extension and Outreach field agronomists Virgil Schmidt at vschmitt@iastate.edu or 563-263-5701; Meaghan Anderson at mjanders@iastate.edu or 319-337-2145; or Rebecca Vittetoe at rka8@iastate.edu or 319-653-4811.

The Ames meeting will occur at the Quality Inn & Suites Starlite Village, located at 13th St and Dayton Ave. Check-in will begin at 9 a.m. with coffee, juice and refreshments. The program will start at 9:30 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. For more information about the Ames meeting, contact ISU Extension and Outreach field agronomists Angie Rieck-Hinz at amrieck@iastate.edu or 515-231-2830 and Mark Johnson at markjohn@iastate.edu or 515-979-9578.

For questions about registration, contact Brent Pringnitz, coordinator for ANR Program Services at 515-294-9487 or bpring@iastate.edu.



24 Emerging Ag Leaders Named for Iowa Corn I-LEAD Class 8

Today, twenty-four men and women from across Iowa have been officially named to Class 8 of the Iowa Corn Leadership Enhancement and Development (I-LEAD) program, sponsored by the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) and the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA). I-LEAD is a two-year program to provide Iowa’s talented men and women with the tools they need to succeed as leaders and spokespeople for the agriculture industry.

“Helping identify and mold new agriculturists continues to be tantamount to our industry’s future success,” said Iowa Corn Promotion Board President Larry Klever, a farmer from Audubon. “These individuals have made agriculture not only part of their occupation, but their passion. I-LEAD ensures we have effective ag leaders serving at all levels of our state commodity boards and organizations.”

Members of Class 7 of the I-LEAD graduated and received recognition during a ceremony prior to the Iowa Corn Annual Grassroots Summit meeting in late August. Class 7 includes: Elizabeth Burns-Thompson (Polk), Connie Casson (Pottawattamie), Matt Eddy (Polk), Alex Edgington (Mitchell), Michael Fritch (Polk), Drew Gieselman (Linn), Katie Hall-Despins (Polk), Laura Holoukec (Polk), James Jordan (Story), Bonnie Kroneman (Mitchell), Brandon Maier (Wright), Chris Mehrens (O’Brien), Maury Noonan (Cerro Gordo), Sara Ross (Pottawattamie), Jason Schwenneker (Polk), Marcie Stevenson (Story), Adam Theis (Omaha, NE), and Charlie White (Poweshiek).

“I-LEAD exposes you to more of the world and provides you tools to be able to listen, learn and confidently share your story with the media, consumers and people from other countries,” explained Michael Fritch of Class 7, a farmer from Central Iowa. “I am more knowledgeable about the issues facing our industry and I am better able to talk to the public and lawmakers about those issues.”

The new Class 8 will meet in a series of ten sessions over two years to build practical communications and decision-making skills, develop key contacts in Iowa and beyond, and explore the challenges confronting agriculture and rural Iowa. They will attend National Corn Congress, go on a domestic mission and will also decide as a class if they will go on an international mission.

Class 8 represents a broad range of individuals with diverse backgrounds and careers from production agriculture, the food and agriculture industry, education and government including:
 ·    Alyssa Amelon, Washington – As the Agricultural Educator and FFA Advisor at Keota Jr. /Sr. High School, Alyssa teaches seven different agriculture classes daily, ranging in grades from seventh to twelve grade with topics ranging from Ag Metals, Ag Construction, Ag Business and Animal and Plant Science. She also supervises the FFA Land Lab where students have the chance to grow corn, soybeans and oats.
 ·    Adam Bierbaum, Cass – Currently pursuing his Master Degree in Agronomy at Iowa State University, Adam farms with his family on their century farm near Griswold. He is a former member of the Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team (CAT) and is active on the Cass County Corn Growers Board and serves as an Iowa Corn District 7 Board Member.
 ·    Melanie Bloom, Buena Vista – Melanie serves as a Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE) writer and has a Master’s Degree from Iowa State University in Agricultural Education. Her husband farms in Buena Vista County.
 ·    Jake Comer, Polk – As the Fuel Category Manager at Kum & Go convenience stores, Jake role involves pricing retail fuel, marketing fuel, improving efficiency, reducing costs and managing budgetary goals. Kum & Go sells the most E85 in the nation and one of Jake’s main duties is to educate consumers about the benefits of these higher blends of ethanol.
 ·    Rich Crow, Woodbury – Rich is an Assistant Professor of Agronomy in the Applied Ag and Food Studies Program at Morningside College in Sioux City, Iowa. In his position he is responsible for developing, planning, and teaching coursework in Agronomy and General Ag Studies.
 ·    Mike Dierickx, Scott – Mike and his wife operate a farm in Long Grove where they grow corn and soybeans. He also assists his parents with their dairy operation as well as manages a custom application business emphasizing in late season nitrogen application and fungicide applications.
 ·    Molly Dolch, Adair -As a high school teacher at West Central Valley High school in Stuart, Molly teaches about food, agriculture, plants, welding and agricultural mechanics. She also advises the school’s FFA chapter and school garden.
 ·    Wade Kent, Polk – Wade is a Central Iowa field agronomist for Beck’s Superior Hybrids providing agronomic and product training to the Beck’s sales team as well as working dealers and customers for product placement and agronomy support throughout the year.
 ·    Katie Kramer, Jasper – Katie serves as the Executive Director of the Jasper County USDA- Farm Service Agency Office. Her primary responsibility is directing and managing government programs put into law by the farm bill.
 ·    Keaton Krueger, Polk – As an Agriculture Technology Specialist for Winfield US, Keaton’s, his primary role is to support his company’s partnered and proprietary ag technology tools at the ground level. Much of his time is spent working with local retail agronomists and growers, training them on how to use ag technology to improve production and profitability, while efficiently managing inputs.
 ·    Andrew Lauver, Calhoun –Currently pursuing his Masters of Agribusiness Degree at Kansas State University, Andrew also farms on his fifth generation family farm in Rockwell City.
 ·    T.J. Masker, Polk – T.J. works directly helps farmers utilize agronomic data to make better input decisions in his role as Agronomic Information Advisor at Premier Crop Systems, LLC.
 ·    Elyssa McFarland, Muscatine – As the Soil Health Partnership Iowa Field Manager, Elyssa manages the coordination of research plots and data collection as well as maintaining relationships with SHP network farmers, partnering with local organizations, and communicating SHP goals and results. She also farms 170 acres in a corn-soybean rotation independently and participates in the management of her family farm including corn, soybeans, hay, and beef. 
 ·    Paul Nees, Story – Paul serves as the Director of the Operations at REG, a producer of biodiesel and bio-chemicals. He is responsible for commodity risk management and hedging, market analysis and ensuring optimum communication to the operations and leadership teams.
 ·    TJ Page, Polk – TJ serves as Iowa Corn Market Development Manager managing the organization’s programs related to livestock, ethanol, and exports.
 ·    Allyson Parman, Polk – As Iowa Corn Publications Manager, Allyson oversees the writing and production of all Iowa Corn’s publications and newsletters.
 ·    Mike Peoppe, Palo Alto – Mike works for Ritch Berkland Seed Sales helping with sales, delivery and treatments for all customers. He currently serves as the Palo Alto Corn Growers President.
 ·    Kale Peterson, Clinton – Kale is a Grain Merchandiser at River Valley Coop in Eldridge. In his role, he assists farmers with marketing corn and soybeans, and makes sales to end users capitalizing on basis opportunities. 
 ·    Tara Jo Pralle, Franklin – Tara works as an Insurance Account Specialist at Farm Credit Services of America assisting customers in their risk management decisions and helping with marketing in a seven county region in Eastern Iowa.
 ·    Joel Pudenz, Carroll – Serving as a Grain Marketing Advisor for Lanus Cooperative, Joel assists local farmers in marketing and logistical opportunities to add value to their operations. 
 ·    Brent Schwenneker, Dallas – Brent manages the Monsanto Huxley Learning Center which hosts more than 6,000 guests every year. He also currently farms more than 800 acres with his brother in Audubon and Guthrie Counties.
 ·    Evan Sieck, Pottawattamie – Evan is a real estate salesperson at Jim Hughes Real Estate in Glenwood. Evan is a graduate of Iowa Corn’s CAT team program.
 ·    Stacey Webster, Boone – As Director of Cooperative Development at the Iowa Institute for Cooperatives, Stacey works to enhance her the success of their members providing them resources, education and training.
 ·    Ben Whaley, Linn – Ben is the Senior Research Associate for Pioneer Hi-Bred International managing 30 corn and 28 soybean test plots in the Northeast Iowa Territory.



Hurricane Matthew Impacts Hog Slaughter

The U.S. daily hog slaughter on Monday dropped more than 50,000 head, which industry sources attributed to possible plant closures in the Carolinas after Hurricane Matthew deluged the East Coast over the weekend.

Smithfield Foods said its employees were working around the clock to determine the impact of extraordinary high levels of rain in North Carolina on its hog farms and packing plants.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's daily livestock slaughter report estimated Monday's hog slaughter at 385,000 head. That was down from 440,000 last Monday and 441,000 head on Sept. 26.

Smithfield Foods canceled last Saturday's hog slaughter at its Tar Heel, North Carolina plant, the biggest in the world, as a safety precaution ahead of the storm, according to industry sources.

USDA estimated last Saturday's overall industry slaughter at 236,000 head, down from early-week projections of roughly 250,000 by analysts and Midwest hog merchants.



U.S. Small Tractor Sales Up in September, Combines Were Down

According to the Association of Equipment Manufacturer's monthly "Flash Report," the sale of all tractors in the U.S. in September 2016, were up 10% compared to the same month last year.

For the month, two-wheel drive smaller tractors (under 40 HP) were up 17% from last year, while 40 & under 100 HP were up 4%. Sales of 2-wheel drive 100+ HP were down 7%, while 4-wheel drive tractors were down 18%.

Combine sales were down 35% for the month.

For the nine months in 2016, a total of 163,355 tractors were sold which compares to 159,133 sold thru September 2015 representing a 3% increase year to date.

For the nine months, two-wheel drive smaller tractors (under 40 HP) are up 12% over last year, while 40 & under 100 HP are down 4%. Sales of 2-wheel drive 100+ HP are down 23%, while 4-wheel drive tractors are down 32%.

Sales of combines for the first nine months totaled 3,051, a decrease of 24% over the same period in 2015.



Report calls for investment and smart regulatory systems to stimulate innovation during a volatile business cycle, as agricultural productivity growth stalls

For the third year in a row, the rate of global agricultural productivity growth has failed to meet its target, says a report by the Global Harvest Initiative (GHI) released today.  GHI's 7th annual Global Agricultural Productivity Report® (2016 GAP Report®): Sustainability in an Uncertain Season warns that unless this trend is reversed, the world may not be able to sustainably provide the food, feed, fiber and biofuels needed for a booming global population.  
Global Harvest Initiative

Improving agricultural productivity is not just about producing more or achieving higher yields; it allows more to be produced while maximizing the use of and impact on precious natural resources.  Agricultural productivity lowers the cost per unit of output, helping producers succeed in today's competitive business cycle, and supplies food and agriculture products for consumers at lower prices.   It is part of a comprehensive strategy to sustainably meet global demand for food and agricultural products. 

According to GHI, global agricultural productivity must increase by 1.75 percent annually in order to meet the demands of an estimated 9.7 billion people in 2050.  GHI's annual assessment of global productivity growth – the GAP Index™ – shows the current rate of growth is only 1.73 percent.  The rate of productivity growth for low-income countries is of special concern, as it is stagnating at only 1.3 percent annually, far below that required to meet food and agriculture needs in a sustainable manner.

Global demand for food and agriculture products is skyrocketing, driven by a growing population and middle class, yet in high-income countries, like the U.S., productivity growth rates have slowed and agricultural output has declined to levels not seen since the 1980s.  This downward trend in productivity raises questions about the health of U.S. agriculture, which is a key driver of the economy, providing $2 trillion in revenue annually and employing 19 million people. 

U.S. farmers are concerned about low crop prices, rising land values and higher prices for seeds, fertilizer, crop protection, machinery and storage and are looking for ways to cut costs and manage risk in order to remain competitive.  Uncertainty about regulations make it difficult for farmers and industry to plan for the future and many are worried about the negative reaction of some consumers to their products and production practices.

"We need to ensure that the agricultural value chain is competitive in every phase of the business cycle.  The food price crisis was just 6 years ago; to think that in half a decade we have created systems that will sustainably produce an abundance of food would be to disregard history," said Ben Pratt, Vice President of Corporate Public Affairs for The Mosaic Company and chair of the GHI Board of Directors.

The GAP Report argues that the best way for farmers to improve their competitiveness is to adopt technologies and practices that make their operations more productive and sustainable.  With precision agriculture, advancements in seed, fertilizer, biotechnologies and animal welfare practices, farmers can manage costs while producing more and protecting their soils, water quality, and animal health.

GHI calls for renewed commitment to public agricultural research and development (R&D) and improvements to regulatory systems to stimulate innovations that will improve productivity and support the development of resilient food and agriculture systems that adapt to and help mitigate climate change.   

"Participants in every part of the value chain need to be able to manage their costs, by investing for innovation and growth," said Dr. Margaret Zeigler, Executive Director of GHI.  "Public sector investments in agricultural R&D coupled with sensible, efficient regulatory systems provide the foundation for innovation and ensure it gets into the hands of the farmers and producers who need it. For farmers who need access to land and finance, new opportunities for partnership are emerging that can expand their options and reduce their risks."

GHI presented the 2016 GAP Report's findings before an audience of farmers and global leaders in science, research, policy and private agriculture industry attending the World Food Prize in Des Moines, Iowa.  The event included a discussion of the importance of agricultural productivity and policies and investments that can help farmers remain competitive while transforming agriculture into a force for mitigating climate change.

Dr. Margaret Zeigler, Executive Director of GHI, was joined by special guest Ambassador Patricia Haslach, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs, U.S. Department of State and former Ambassador to Ethiopia (2013-2016); Mr. Luca Fabbri, Chief Financial Officer, Farmland Partners Inc.; Dr. Keith Fuglie, Economist, Resource and Rural Economics Division, USDA Economic Research Service; Ms. Bonnie McClafferty, Director of Agriculture for Nutrition Global Program, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN); and Mr. Ben Pratt, Vice President, Corporate Public Affairs, The Mosaic Company & GHI Board Chair.