Wednesday November 9 Ag News + USDA Reports

NEBRASKA CROP PRODUCTION REPORT

Based on November 1 conditions, Nebraska's 2016 corn production is forecast at a record high 1.75 billion bushels, up 3 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 184 bushels per acre, down 1 bushel from last year.

Soybean production in Nebraska is forecast at a record high 319 million bushels, 4 percent above last year. Area for harvest, at 5.15 million acres, is down 2 percent from 2015. Record yield is forecast at 62 bushels per acre, up 4 bushels from a year ago.

Sorghum production of 15.5 million bushels is down 33 percent from a year ago. Area for grain harvest of 170,000 acres is down 29 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 91 bushels per acre, down 5 bushels from last year.

Sugarbeet production is forecast at 1.48 million tons, up 11 percent from 2015. Area for harvest, at 47,000 acres, is up slightly from last year. Record yield is estimated at 31.5 tons per acre, up 3.1 tons per acre from a year ago.

Potato acres of 16,000 were planted in 2016, up 3 percent with harvested set at 15,900 acres, up 4 percent. Production is forecast at 7.08 million hundredweight, up 3 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 445 hundredweight per acre, down 5 hundredweight from 2015.



IOWA CROP PRODUCTION FORECAST

 Iowa corn production is forecast at 2.69 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 November 1, yield is expected to average 199.0 bushels per acre, up 1.0 bushel from the October forecast, and 7.0 bushels per acre higher than last year. If realized, yield would set a new record high for a second consecutive year. Acres harvested for grain remain unchanged from October at 13.5 million acres.

Corn forecasted production is up in all 9 Iowa districts from 2015. The Central and East Central districts are expected to have the highest yields in the State, with average yields of 206.0 and 205.0 bushels per acre, respectively. The lowest yields are expected in the South Central and Southwest districts, where yields are expected to average 182.0 and 188.0 bushels per acre, respectively. Compared with 2015, the largest yield increases are expected in the Southeast, South Central, and East Central districts where yields are up 19.0, 18.8, and 15.9 bushels per acre, respectively. The largest production is expected in Central Iowa, where production is forecast at 407.7 million bushels.

Soybean production is forecast at 561 million bushels. If realized, this will be the largest crop on record, 6.80 million bushels above last year’s record high. The November 1 yield forecast is a record high 59.0 bushels per acre, 2.5 bushels more than the previous record set last year. Area harvested remained unchanged at 9.50 million acres.

Soybean production is forecast to be up in 6 Iowa districts and yields are forecasted to be higher in all 9 districts compared to last year. The Northwestern district is expected to have the highest yield in the State, with a 61.5 bushel average yield. The North Central and Northeastern districts are also expected to average 60.0 bushels per acre or more. The lowest yields are expected in the South Central district despite having the largest yield increase from a year ago. The Northwestern district is expected to have the largest production, at 93.5 million bushels.


All crop forecasts in this report are based on November 1 conditions and do not reflect weather effects since that time. The next production estimates will be published in the Crop Production – 2016 Summary report which will be released on January 12, 2017.



USDA:  Corn Production Up 1 Percent from October Forecast
Soybean Production Up 2 Percent

Corn production is forecast at 15.2 billion bushels, up 1 percent from the October forecast and up 12 percent from last year. Based on conditions as of November 1, yields are expected to average 175.3 bushels per acre, up 1.9 bushels from the October forecast and up 6.9 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, unchanged from the October forecast but up 8 percent from 2015.

Soybean production is forecast at a record 4.36 billion bushels, up 2 percent from October and up 11 percent from last year. Based on November 1 conditions, yields are expected to average a record 52.5 bushels per acre, up 1.1 bushels from last month and up 4.5 bushels from last year. Area for harvest in the United States is forecast at a record 83.0 million acres, unchanged from last month.



Corn Prices Rise Slightly Despite Record Yield, Production

U.S. corn farmers may set a new record national average yield should today's forecast in the World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates Report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture be recognized. With a forecast yield of 175.3 bushels per acre and forecast record production, average corn prices rose five cents given raised demand forecasts.

"The farm economy continues to struggle making it imperative that we work to encourage and grow corn markets wherever possible," said Wesley Spurlock, president of the National Corn Growers Association and a farmer from Stratford, Texas. "For much of agriculture, trade presents an important, even critical, opportunity. This is why NCGA will continue efforts to encourage our elected officials to open export markets and improve access through support of the Trans Pacific Partnership.

"From growing export markets to increasing domestic demand through policies supporting the ethanol industry, NCGA works hard on the behalf of America's farmers to build a sustainable, thriving future for both their farms and their families."

Estimated use by the ethanol industry was raised by 25 million bushels from last month, with non-ethanol food, seed and industrial use raised by an additional 60 million bushels over that period. Export use held steady at 2.225 billion bushels. If realized, this would be the first time U.S. corn exports have exceeded two billion bushels since the 2007/2008 crop year, and it would mark the fifth-highest level of corn exports since 1980.

Production estimates were raised 168 million bushels from last month to 15.226 billion. Corn supplies for 2016/17 are raised from last month to a record 17.013 billion bushels. The average price was raised by five cents to a median of $3.30 per bushel.

Carryout estimates were raised again as production increases more than offset increases to use forecasts. Total ending stocks are now forecast at 2.403 billion bushels, the highest level seen since the 1980s.



U.S. soybean crop and exports super-sized

The 2016 soybean crop is a monster and it just keeps getting bigger, according to government crop production estimates released today.

But Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) leaders and industry experts say a bin-buster harvest is accompanied by an insatiable appetite for soybeans and soybean products here and abroad. Robust demand, they say, will devour supplies and support prices.

“The domestic and global interest in our soybeans gives me confidence in the future,” said Bill Shipley, farmer from Nodaway and Iowa Soybean Association president elect. “China is buying an incredible amount of our soybeans and interest is strong in Southeast Asia and around the globe. Income and diets are improving, and protein-packed soybeans are in demand.”

All but 5 percent of Iowa’s record 560.5-million-bushel soybean crop is in the bin or off to market, according to the latest U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) crop production and progress reports. The average yield statewide is estimated at 59 bushels per acre, up 1 bushel from last month, which led to the 9.5-million-bushel increase from the prior near-record forecast.

 National soybean production is pegged at an all-time-high 4.36 billion bushels, up 92 million bushels from last month. The average soybean yield is forecasted at a record 52.5 bushels per acre, up 1.1 bushels from October.

“The raised production estimates don’t surprise me because almost everyone had very good yields,” Shipley said. “The high carryout is somewhat concerning, but demand is strong.”

U.S. soybean ending stocks are projected at 480 million bushels, up 85 million bushels from the previous forecast, according to today’s USDA World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) Report. A 20-million-bushel decrease in domestic crush was more than offset by a 25-million-bushel increase in soybean exports, now estimated at more than 2 billion bushels.

“Export sales are just huge. China seems to be buying soybeans with both hands,” said Al Kluis, owner of Kluis Commodities of Wayzata, Minnesota.

Industry officials say it’s likely U.S. soybean stocks will be half or less than half of current projections given demand and the USDA’s tendency to overestimate final numbers.

“They’ve done it the last three years and eight out of the last 10,” Kluis said.

The U.S. season-average soybean price range is projected at $8.45 to $9.95 per bushel, up 15 cents on both ends despite a larger anticipated soybean crop and carryout, according to the WASDE Report.

ISA Chief Operating Officer Karey Claghorn will accompany Gov. Terry Branstad and other Iowa commodity, livestock and economic officials on a seven-day trade mission to China and Japan this month. The goal is to increase meat exports, which in turn creates demand for soybeans.

"It’s critical to build demand for meat since livestock is the No. 1 consumer of soybeans,” said Claghorn, former Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture. “We’ll meet with customers to discuss this year’s crop and reassure them U.S. farmers produce the highest quality and safest food products in the world.”



USDA - World Ag Supply and Demand Estimate - Nov 9, 2016

COARSE GRAINS:  This month’s 2016/17 U.S. corn outlook is for larger production, increased food, seed and industrial (FSI) use and slightly higher prices.  Corn production is forecast at 15.226 billion bushels, up 168 million from last month on a 1.9-bushel per acre increase in yield to 175.3 bushels per acre.  Non-ethanol FSI from 2013/14 to 2015/16 is raised this month based on updated usage estimates.  With stocks known, concomitant reductions are made in feed and residual use for those years.  For 2016/17, corn used for ethanol is projected 25 million bushels higher from last month, while non-ethanol FSI is raised 60 million bushels.  A detailed breakout of the corn FSI estimates is available at the Economic Research Service Feed Grains Database: http://www.ers.usda.gov/data-products/feed-grains-database.aspx.  With supply rising faster than use, corn ending stocks are raised 83 million bushels.  The projected range for the season-average corn price received by producers is raised 5 cents on both ends to $3.00 to $3.60 per bushel, based on higher-than-expected observed early-season prices.

Global coarse grain production for 2016/17 is forecast 4.9 million tons higher to 1,319.7 million.  This month’s 2016/17 foreign coarse grain outlook is for greater production and consumption, increased trade, and lower stocks relative to last month.  Historical revisions are made to several countries this month, including Egypt, Tunisia, and Vietnam.  Corn production is raised for Ukraine, based on near-record yields reported by the government through early November.  Russia corn production is higher this month with a projected record yield, based on harvest results to date.  Partly offsetting are corn production reductions for Vietnam and Bolivia. 

Corn exports are projected higher for Ukraine and Russia.  Notable month-to-month increases in corn imports are forecast for Iran and Saudi Arabia.  Partly offsetting are reductions in imports for Indonesia and South Korea.  Policy restrictions are expected to limit corn imports by Indonesia, while South Korea’s corn purchase pace has moderated.  Foreign corn ending stocks for 2016/17 are lowered 0.7 million tons, with the largest stock declines projected for Vietnam and Indonesia, partly offset by increases expected for Ukraine and Russia.

OILSEEDS:  U.S. oilseed production for 2016/17 is projected at 128.7 million metric tons, up 2.5 million from last month on increased soybean and cottonseed production.  Soybean production is forecast at 4,361 million bushels, up 92 million on higher yields.  The soybean yield is projected at a record 52.5 bushels per acre, up 1.1 bushels mainly on production gains for Minnesota, North Dakota, and Kansas.  Despite increased supplies, soybean crush is reduced 20 million bushels to 1,930 million mostly due to reduced soybean meal export prospects.  Sales are lagging year-earlier levels to several markets including Mexico, Canada, Thailand, and the EU.  Domestic soybean meal consumption is reduced slightly, in line with changes in the 2015/16 balance sheet.  Soybean exports are projected at 2,050 million bushels, up 25 million with increased supplies.  Soybean ending stocks are projected at 480 million bushels, up 85 million from the previous forecast.

Soybean and product price forecasts for 2016/17 are raised this month.  The U.S. season-average soybean price range is projected at $8.45 to $9.95 per bushel, up 15 cents on both ends of the range reflecting reported early-season producer prices.  Soybean meal prices are projected at $305 to $345 per short ton, up $5.00 on both ends.  Soybean oil prices are projected at 32.5 to 35.5 cents per pound, up 2 cents on both ends.

Global oilseed production for 2016/17 is projected at 551.2 million tons, up 3.1 million from last month led by higher soybean production.  Global soybean production is projected at 336.1 million tons, up 2.9 million with larger crops in the United States, Russia, and Mexico.  Smaller global production increases in cottonseed, peanuts, and rapeseed are partly offset by a reduction in sunflowerseed.  Global cottonseed production is raised 0.3 million tons to 39.1 million with increased production in India partly offset by a reduction for Argentina.  Global rapeseed and peanut production are raised to 67.8 and 41.8 million tons, respectively, on increased production projected for China.  Global sunflowerseed production is reduced 0.3 million tons to 43.7 million on lower forecasts for Bolivia and the EU. 

Global oilseed trade for 2016/17 is projected at 159.7 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month.  Increased soybean exports from the United States, Russia, and Ukraine and increased rapeseed exports from the EU account for most of the increase.  Global oilseed ending stocks are projected at 92.9 million tons, up 4.7 million from last month.  Soybean stocks account for most of the change with increases for the United States, China, and Argentina.

LIVESTOCK, POULTRY, AND DAIRY:  The 2016 forecast of total red meat and poultry production is increased from last month as higher fourth quarter beef and pork production forecasts more than offset reductions in broiler and turkey production.  Beef production is increased on the pace of slaughter and heavier carcass weights.  Pork production for 2016 is raised based on the current rate of slaughter.  Broiler production is lowered based on September slaughter data.  Turkey production is reduced based on the pace of slaughter.  For 2017, higher forecast beef production more than offsets lower pork and broiler production.  Turkey production is unchanged.  The increase in beef production reflects slaughter of cattle placed in late-2016 and early-2017 as well as slightly higher carcass weights.  Pork production is lowered on slower expected gains in carcass weights.  Broiler production for 2017 is lowered from last month on slower second-half growth.  Table egg production is slightly reduced for both 2016 and 2017.

The beef import forecast in 2016 is lowered due to expected tightness in supplies from Oceania.  Beef exports are expected to decline modestly in 2016 based on recent trade data. Beef imports and exports are unchanged for 2017. U.S. pork imports for 2016 and 2017 were lowered as increases in domestic pork production and lower prices are expected to limit demand for imports.  Pork exports in 2016 are lowered from last month on recent trade data.  Exports are raised in 2017 on lower hog prices which are expected to make U.S. product more competitive.  Broiler exports are raised for 2016 and 2017 on strong demand in a number of countries. 

Cattle prices are forecast lower for the remainder of 2016 and for 2017.  Large supplies of fed cattle are currently weighing on prices and are expected to carry into next year.  Hog prices are lowered for 2016 and early 2017 on supply pressure.  However late-2017 prices are expected to reflect demand from new slaughter facilities.  Broiler prices are lowered for 2016 and 2017 as supplies of broilers and competing meats pressure the markets.

Milk production forecasts for 2016 and 2017 are lowered from last month as recent data indicated that the U.S. cow inventory increased less rapidly than previously expected.  However, output per cow is raised from last month.  The skim-solids basis import forecast for 2016 is lowered, reflecting recent trade data, but the 2017 fat and skim-solid basis forecasts are unchanged.  Fat basis exports are lowered for 2016 and 2017 on slower sales of cheese and whole milk powder.  On a skim-solids basis, exports for 2016 are forecast lower on weaker sales of milk protein concentrates and whey, but are unchanged for 2017.

Cheese and whey price forecasts for 2016 are raised on current price strength.  The forecasts for butter and nonfat dry milk (NDM) are lowered as supplies remain large.  For 2017, large supplies of butter are expected to continue to pressure prices, but prices of cheese, whey and NDM are expected to strengthen.  The Class III price forecast is raised for both 2016 and 2017 on higher cheese and whey prices.  However, lower butter prices are expected to more than offset higher NDM prices and Class IV prices for both years are lowered from last month.  All milk prices are forecast higher at $16.00 to $16.10 per cwt for 2016 and $16.30 to $17.20 per cwt for 2017.



NEBRASKA EXTENSION OFFERS UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS TRAINING

    Those interested in incorporating unmanned aircraft systems into their business operations and agricultural enterprises are encouraged to attend one of five introductory training sessions offered across the state by Nebraska Extension.

The sessions will be from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the following locations:
    > Scottsbluff: Nov. 21, Panhandle Research and Extension Center, 4502 Ave. I
    > North Platte: Nov. 22, West Central Research and Extension Center, 402 W. State Farm Road
    > Norfolk: Nov. 29, Lifelong Learning Center, Northeast Community College, 801 E. Benjamin Ave.
    > Mead: Dec. 14, Agricultural Research and Development Center, 1071 County Road G
    > Grand Island: Dec. 16, Hall County Extension Office, 3180 W. Highway 34

    "Emerging technology such as unmanned aircraft systems have the potential to benefit all types of businesses, and especially applications of the agricultural industry," said Wayne Woldt, associate professor in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Department of Biological Systems Engineering and one of the training organizers. Woldt is a rated pilot who developed the Nebraska Unmanned Aircraft Innovation, Research and Education (NU-AIRE) laboratory and flight program, with a focus on research and education in unmanned aircraft systems.

    The training will highlight the information an unmanned aircraft operator and pilot would need including: hobby flight, educational interpretation and best practices for privacy concerns; Federal Part 107 rules for commercial flight and piloting; and an overview of applications. At the conclusion of the program, training attendees will have flight time with a small unmanned aircraft system.

    In addition to Woldt, others conducting the training are Bill Kreuser and Jacob Smith. Kreuser is an assistant professor in the university's Department of Agronomy and Horticulture. He is a rated pilot who works with unmanned aircraft systems as part of his research and extension program to advance the use of this new technology for managing complex agronomic systems. Smith works with Woldt in the NU-AIRE laboratory. He is a commercial pilot, certified flight instructor and unmanned aircraft systems expert.

    Space is limited to 45 attendees at each session. The registration fee of $50 may be submitted online at http://nuaire.unl.edu or by mailing a check to Bonita Delhay, Biological Systems Engineering, 234 Chase Hall, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583-0726. Checks should be payable to the University of Nebraska. The deadline to register is Nov. 15.

    For more information, visit http://nuaire.unl.edu or contact Delhay at 402-472-9390 or bdelhay2@unl.edu.



Platte Co Cattlemen Nov Meeting
Marcus Urban, PVC President

We will be meeting Monday, November 21st, at Wunderlich’s Catering in Columbus, with Social Hour beginning at 6:00 P.M. and the meal at 7:00 P.M. We want to be sure to thank Rosendahl Farms Feed & Seed for sponsoring our social hour and Cooperative Supply of Dodge, Howells, Leigh, and Richland for sponsoring our meal.

The Platte Valley Cattlemen will be hosting ADM’s Keith Nickleson of ADM Alliance Nutrition. Keith will be talking to us about the upcoming VFD regulations.  See you then!



Ricketts Announces Agreement to Create Model Farm in China for Nebraska Ag Tech

Today, Governor Pete Ricketts announced that the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) had signed an agreement with Chinese officials to create a working demonstration farm, known as the Nebraska (Yangling) Agricultural Sci-tech Park.   Under the agreement, the farm will be capitalized and managed by Chinese partners, and will showcase the equipment of Nebraska-based farm equipment manufacturers.  The project is a partnership among the State of Nebraska, the University of Nebraska—Lincoln, and the Yangling Agriculture Hi-tech Demonstration Zone located in China’s Shaanxi Province.

“China’s increasing demand for Nebraska’s 21st-century ag technology is helping our state’s manufacturers grow and expand internationally,” said Governor Ricketts.  “The promise of this demonstration farm is a big win for our state’s top two industries, agriculture and manufacturing.  The farm gives Nebraska’s ag tech manufacturers increased access to Chinese ag producers who are looking for ways to make their operations more productive.”

The 80-hectare demonstration farm is located in the Shaanxi Province of China.  The farm will assist Nebraska agricultural manufacturers in entering and expanding Chinese markets by demonstrating Nebraska products and technology in a way that will also help improve Chinese agricultural methods.  Training and education will be provided through a unique collaboration involving a private sector and public sector partnership among DED, University of Nebraska, Nebraska agricultural manufacturers, Chinese producers, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling Agricultural Hi-tech Industries Demonstration Zone, and the Chinese government.

The farm will be managed by a subsidiary of Roffar Holdings.  Nebraska manufacturers will provide equipment and technical expertise while the University will provide technical and agronomic advice and assist with farm planning.  This will give Nebraska companies a platform to advertise and demonstrate to potential customers and partners. 

DED, partner manufacturers and the University are now working in coordination with the farm management company, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University and the Yangling Demonstration Zone to finalize an operational plan for the farm and develop a management strategy for the next five years.

 

GRAZING STOCKPILED GRASS DURING WINTER
Bruce Anderson, NE Extension Forage Specialist

               Grass remaining for winter grazing can really help cut feed costs for stock cows.  Your grazing strategy can greatly influence how effectively you use this pasture.

               Grazing winter range or pastures has many benefits.  It can save as much as a dollar a day per cow compared to feeding hay.  It removes old growth so pasture next spring and summer is fresher.  And some weeds may be eaten that cattle won’t touch during summer.  Plus, there is little risk of damage to your dormant pasture.

               But the way you manage your cattle during winter grazing can have a big effect on its success.  For instance, maybe you have a goal of feeding as little protein supplement as possible while winter grazing.  Then you must make sure your stocking level is light enough so cattle can select just the higher quality plant parts to eat.  Another strategy might be to stretch winter pasture as far as possible.  Then it might be best to restrict animal access to small areas at a time, like with strip grazing, and feed supplements as needed.  Or, if you use forage from winter range just as a filler to keep cattle from bellowing when you limit feed corn, corn by-products, or other nutrient dense feeds, then high stocking levels and unrestricted access might be best.

               Whatever your strategy, though, consider carefully what kind of nutrition animals are getting from the pasture so you neither underfeed nor overfeed expensive supplements.  Be sure to provide salt, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin A free choice at all times.

               Winter grazing is a great opportunity to reduce winter feed costs.  With the right grazing strategy, it can help you meet many of your feeding goals.



NORTHEY TO FINISH 10th ANNUAL 99 COUNTY TOUR WITH VISITS TO CALHOUN, SIOUX, PLYMOUTH AND CHEROKEE COUNTIES NOVEMBER 11

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey today announced that he will be wrapping up his 10th annual 99 county tour with stops in Calhoun, Sioux, Plymouth and Cherokee Counties on Friday, November 11.  Northey has visited each of Iowa’s 99 counties every year since taking office in 2007.

Northey will visit the Calhoun County Freedom Rock in Rockwell City, speak to the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI) Leadership Iowa class in Sioux Center, visit with veterans and other guests at the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor in Le Mars and visit Tim Bierman’s pork farm near Larrabee.

The details of the visits follow here:Friday, Nov. 11, 2016
Calhoun County – 8:45 a.m., visit the Calhoun County Freedom Rock, 515 Court St., Rockwell City (NW side of the Calhoun County Courthouse square)
Sioux County – 11:15 a.m., speak to the Association of Business and Industry (ABI) Leadership Iowa class, Dordt College Science Building, 498 4th Ave. NE, Sioux Center
Plymouth County – 1:30 a.m., visit with guests at the Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor (veterans receive free ice cream cones for Veterans Day), 115 Central Ave. NW, Le Mars
Cherokee County – 3:00 p.m., visit Tim Bierman’s pork farm, 4206 R Ave, Larrabee

“Visiting each county every year has been enjoyable and invaluable for me to better understand the diversity and scale of Iowa agriculture and also the passion and commitment of our state’s farmers.  Getting out to our rural communities; visiting farms, businesses, schools and community meetings; and listening to a wide variety of Iowans is important for all elected officials as we seek to serve the people of our great state,” Northey said.




USDA Data Shows Number of Midsize Farms Declining

New data from the Department of Agriculture shows the number of midsized farms is declining. The USDA Economic Research Service found midsized farms declined by five percent between 1992 and 2012, to about 125,000.

Midsize operations are defined as those with gross cash farm income between $350,000 and $1 million. USDA attributed the decline partly due to exits from the business, but also volatile income and a tendency to downsize or grow at higher rates than small and large farms.

USDA says the trend also may indicate new technology and the increasing profitability of large farms limit the role of midsize farms in modern agriculture. During the same period, the number of large farms more than doubled.

The data also shows that small farms, those with less than $350,000 gross cash farm income, represent 90 percent of all farms, but only grow about 22 percent of America’s agricultural goods.



NCGA Statement on 2016 Election

The National Corn Growers Association today congratulated Donald Trump on his election as the 45th President, and pledged to work with the new Administration and Congress on important issues of the day.

“The American people have spoken. Now, it is time for us all to set aside our differences, roll up our sleeves, and get to work,” said Wesley Spurlock, a farmer from Stratford, Texas, and president of the National Corn Growers Association.

“As a supporter of the No Labels movement, the National Corn Growers Association believes in bipartisan problem-solving and building a more responsive and accountable government. We stand ready to work together with President-Elect Trump and the new Congress to make government work better for us all,” said Spurlock.

“We look forward to working with the Trump transition team and assisting in any way possible to make his Administration a successful one,” said Executive Vice President Jon Doggett. “The National Corn Growers Association is committed to working with the White House and Congress to solve important policy and regulatory issues and move our country forward.”

Spurlock urged the current Congress to pass the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement during its lame-duck session in December.

“Congress still has important work to do yet this year. We urge Congress to pass the Trans-Pacific Partnership when they return to Washington next month. TPP is the one thing Congress can do right now to increase farm income, generate economic activity, and promote job growth. Campaign rhetoric has set America’s trade agenda back years. Let’s take a big step back in the right direction and pass TPP,” said Spurlock.



ASA Congratulates President-Elect Trump, Incoming 115th Congress

American Soybean Association (ASA) Vice President and Roseville, Ill., soybean farmer Ron Moore congratulated President-Elect Donald Trump on his victory early this morning. In a statement, Moore pointed to the work ahead for the Trump Administration and the 115th Congress on critical agriculture issues and signaled ASA's willingness to collaborate on securing policy that benefits American soybean farmers:

"The American Soybean Association congratulates Donald Trump on his victory in the presidential election. We look forward to working with the new administration and the 115th Congress to communicate and advance soybean farmer priorities. President-Elect Trump said repeatedly on the campaign trail that he would ensure farmers are at the table when important decisions affecting agriculture are made, and we will work with President Trump to make sure we indeed are at the table.

"We applaud his pro-farmer stance on the renewable fuel standard, on reducing the burden of regulations like the EPA's Waters of the U.S. rule, on investing in our nation's supply chain infrastructure, and on protecting farm and food programs in the farm bill. We look forward to taking an active and cooperative role as the Trump Administration works on these critical issues.

"We look forward as well to a constructive discussion on President-Elect Trump's stance on trade. It is impossible to overstate the importance of trade--and specifically of the Chinese market--to American soybean farmers. Similarly, our export markets in North America and Southeast Asia are extraordinarily important trading partners. We export half of all soy grown in the U.S. One in four rows of beans goes to China, and Mexico is our second-largest market. We are eager to work together to illustrate how critical an aggressive trade agenda is for soybean farmers.

"Congratulations to President-Elect Trump and to the incoming members of the 115th Congress. ASA stands ready to work with these men and women on behalf of the nation's soybean farmers."

ASA Urges Congress to Make TPP a Priority During Lame Duck Session
With the election over and Congress reconvening to set their lame duck agenda, the American Soybean Association (ASA) urges Members of Congress to prioritize and pass the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement, thus allowing the U.S., and soybean industry, to better participate in the global economy.

“TPP passage is vital to farmers across the country, as well as the processors and exporters that take U.S. soybeans to markets around the world,” said ASA President and Greenwood, Del. farmer Richard Wilkins.

With 95 percent of the world’s consumers living outside of the United States, passage of TPP will open new global markets and is projected to boost farm exports by $4.4 billion each year.

“Farmers support the improved access to foreign markets through TPP, and welcome the potential for expanded soybean exports in the forms of oil and feed,” Wilkins said. “Overall, TPP has the power to create jobs at home, boost the farm economy and explore foreign markets.”



 Growth Energy Congratulates President-Elect Trump & New Congress

Following the results of the 2016 general election, Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy released the following statement:

“Growth Energy sends its congratulations to President-elect Trump for his successful election bid. Additionally, Growth Energy congratulates returning and newly elected members of the 115th Congress. President-Elect Trump has publicly supported the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) throughout his campaign, and consistently opposed any efforts to roll back this policy. In fact, the RFS was one issue where both candidates found common ground, and we applaud their recognition of the importance that biofuels, like ethanol, play in fueling our country.

“Growth Energy looks forward to working with the new administration to ensure the RFS, our nation’s most successful energy policy, continues to progress. Furthermore, we will work to continue expanding market access for biofuels, like E15, which are better for our energy security, environment, consumers’ wallets and rural America’s economic prosperity.

“Finally, we welcome back our returning champions who have tirelessly fought for a strong biofuels industry and look forward to building relationships and working to educate new members of Congress on the many ways Americans benefit from biofuels every day.”



NCBA Statement Regarding the 2016 National Election

Statement by National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Tracy Brunner following the 2016 national election:

“Although it is still too early to determine what exactly this election will mean for our priorities, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association remains committed to expanding access to foreign markets, fighting burdensome federal regulations and ensuring the continued health of our herd and industry. I am proud to see that across the nation, the majority of candidates and incumbents we, and our state affiliates supported through the NCBA Political Action Committee, were elected or re-elected.

“In the coming weeks, we will continue to work with Congress to pass the Trans-Pacific Partnership, defund EPA’s flawed “waters of the United States” rule, and pass the National Defense Authorization Act which includes language to mitigate the sage grouse stubble height requirements and other restrictions on grazing based on flawed science. In the year ahead, we look forward to working with a new Congress and Administration to ensure the priorities of cattlemen and women nationwide are met.”



Statement by Zippy Duvall, President, American Farm Bureau Federation, Regarding the 2016 Election Results

“The American Farm Bureau Federation congratulates President-elect Trump on his election, as well as those candidates elected to serve during the 115th Congress. The important issues facing American agriculture are not red or blue, but they are critical to the prosperity of rural America and our ability to protect our nation’s food supply. We urge our elected representatives to reach across the aisle and come together to resolve the challenges we face.

“Farmers and ranchers understand that their businesses and their families have too much at stake to take a back seat on Election Day, and rural America clearly made a difference in this election. Now it’s time for our newly elected leaders to turn up for rural America and keep their campaign promises by addressing the issues that matter to the people who sent them to Washington. Farm Bureau looks forward to working with the new administration and Congress on issues such as the farm bill, tax reform and a trade agenda focused on reducing barriers and expanding exports.

“America’s farmers and ranchers are working overtime to ensure our food supply is safe and sustainable. It’s time our elected leaders put that same diligence to work protecting U.S. agriculture by promoting innovation and ensuring we have an adequate workforce. We need regulatory reform that boosts farm businesses rather than shutting them down. Farmers are concerned for the environment and are hopeful that the new administration will recognize agriculture’s strides in sustainability and protect our ability to produce.

“Elected officials come to Washington with different perspectives and ideas, but they share a common goal of wanting to make our nation better for all Americans. At Farm Bureau, we will continue to do our part to help identify opportunities for cooperation to improve the lives of rural communities, and all American farmers and ranchers.”



Record Amount of Nutrients Removed from U.S. Soils This Summer

Growers around the country should remember they’re removing more than just record yields from their fields this harvest season.

"The predicted highest average corn and soybean yields on record offer many reasons for our industry to celebrate the advancements that have helped us reach this level of production," says Dr. Kyle Freeman, director of New Product Development at The Mosaic Company. "But it‘s also important for growers to remember that with record yield comes record nutrient removal, and necessary measures will need to be taken to replenish those nutrients."

The October crop forecast from the USDA predicts a 15.2-billion-bushel corn crop and a 175.3-bushel-per-acre average. That equates to an estimated 61 pounds of phosphate (P2O5) removed from every acre.

The same forecast predicts a soybean harvest of 4.36 billion bushels, averaging 52.5 bushels/acre, which will remove 63 pounds/acre of potassium oxide (K2O) from U.S. soils.

Mosaic agronomists are advising their retail customers to urge growers to examine nutrient removal rates closely this fall.

"Unfortunately, regardless of how much a crop is worth per bushel, it’s still pulling just as many nutrients from the ground," Dr. Freeman says. "For some, this will be the third straight year of very difficult decisions related to input costs. Those who have cut back on fertilitizer costs may find themselves in a situation that‘s very hard to rebound from if they don‘t adjust their plans to address the effects of this record yield."

To address these nutrient concerns, growers and retailers may consider granular products with years of proven research from The Mosaic Company. Each offers efficient, balanced delivery of key nutrients, so growers can be confident they‘re getting the most out of their fertilizer spend.

Studies show MicroEssentials® SZ™ and S10™ can increase corn yield by 5.4–8.8 bu/ac over MAP and DAP. MicroEssentials SZ is a proprietary fertilizer (12-40-0-10S-1Zn) specially formulated for use on most crops, including corn and wheat. Through Mosaic‘s patented Fusion® technology process, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), sulfur (S) and zinc (Zn) are fused into each nutritionally balanced granule, delivering uniform nutrient distribution across the field. Learn more at MicroEssentials.com.

Aspire® with Boron is particularly suited for soybeans, alfalfa, corn and cotton because micronutrients such as boron are essential for plant growth. Aspire is the first-of-its-kind micronutrient-enhanced potash fertilizer. Formed using innovative Nutriform® technology, Aspire premium potash (0-0-58-0.5B) combines potassium (K) and boron (B) in each granule to help achieve balanced crop nutrition. Learn more at AspirePotash.com.



Syngenta offers latest insight on sudden death syndrome management

Rather than dealing with yellowing and defoliating soybean plants mid-season, Syngenta encourages Midwestern growers to get ahead of sudden death syndrome (SDS) before planting in 2017.

Some fields in the Midwest experienced SDS this past summer. While a cool and wet spring followed by saturated soils later in the season favored SDS development, weather wasn’t only to blame.

“Fields with soybean cyst nematode pressure have been shown to be more susceptible to the pathogen that causes SDS,” says Jason Bond, plant pathologist at Southern Illinois University.

Although often overlooked, there is a relationship between SDS and soybean cyst nematode (SCN), and fields showing SDS symptoms most often also test positive for SCN. The extensive root damage caused by SCN makes the plants more vulnerable to SDS infection, according to The Ohio State University Extension.

Shawn Conley, professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, further discusses the correlation of SDS and SCN in this video.

With no in-season treatment options available, effective SDS management in 2017 will require a comprehensive preventive strategy that includes planting resistant varieties and treating them for protection against SCN, too. Start now by sampling soils for SCN.

“We have to think about managing those pathogens together, because they are, in fact, attacking the plants at the same time. A seed treatment provides the added benefits of targeting the fungus and the nematode simultaneously, soon after planting, and complementing resistant varieties,” explains Bond.

Best management practices
Because SDS and SCN are both highly damaging, widespread and correlated, Syngenta advises growers to plant soybean varieties with genetic resistance to both of these pests. In addition to providing SCN resistance, SDS-resistant NK® Soybean varieties offer the industry’s best SDS ratings when compared to major competitors’ varieties, with an average 1.3-point advantage for relative maturities.

“In addition to yield, SDS and SCN resistance are key breeding targets for Syngenta,” says Scott Erickson, product marketing manager, soybean seed, at Syngenta. “It’s how we’ve been able to deliver a premier selection of products with leading SDS tolerance like NK Soybean varieties S22-S1, S27-J7, S30-V6, S35-C3 and S39-C4 brands.”

To enhance those varieties and protect soybeans during the critical seedling growth stage, agronomists encourage growers to plant seed treated with Clariva® Complete Beans seed treatment, a combination of separately registered products. Through effective, season-long SCN protection, Clariva Complete Beans helps to reduce the impact of SCN and SCN-related diseases, such as SDS.

"There’s a big issue with SDS and SCN pairing together and causing an even greater yield loss than either one alone in a single field. A seed treatment that reduces the number of SCN eggs can provide a yield benefit,” says Conley.