Monday January 9 Ag News

THE LOWER ELKHORN NRD PROACTIVELY PLANNING FOR FUTURE DROUGHT EVENTS

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) is taking proactive steps to reduce the impacts of future drought events.  One of these steps is the development of the Drought Management Plan.  The Drought Management Plan defines drought locally and identifies processes to respond to and manage the impacts of future drought events.

LENRD Water Resources Manager, Brian Bruckner, said, “The Drought Management Plan was developed with the intention that it be adopted as an appendix of the district’s Hazard Mitigation Plan.  The Drought Management Plan draft is available on the LENRD website.  The public is encouraged to review the plan and provide comments, no later than January 25th, 2017.”

The Drought Management Plan was funded by a FEMA planning grant. The cost is shared 75% through federal funding and 25% through a local match.  The LENRD is providing the 25% local match.  The LENRD hired JEO Consulting Group, Inc. to assist with the plan development.

For more information on this planning effort, contact Brian Bruckner at 402-371-7313 or bbruckner@lenrd.org.



Fremont Citizens Amend Lawsuit to Combat “December Surprise” Expansion of Costco-Lincoln Poultry Plant Site

Friday, two Fremont citizens filed an amended complaint to their current lawsuit against the City of Fremont contesting the illegal blighting of farmland for the massive $275 million Costco-Lincoln Premium Poultry chicken processing plant slated for the town. In a December 27th vote, Costco-Lincoln won unanimous approval to expand their proposed cropland blighting and receive millions in additional Tax Increment Financing (TIF). Nebraska statute NEB. REV. STAT. § 18-2103 does not provide for blighting large portions of agricultural land for the use of TIF money. The disputed area, by law, must be urban or suburban, and not rural in character.

The amended complaint was filed with the Nebraska District Court of the 6th Judicial District by Lincoln-based attorney, Greg Barton of Barton Law P.C., L.L.O., representing plaintiffs James Jaksha and Pamela Allen.

“It’s a December surprise that we should have expected,” said Randy Ruppert, leader of the citizens group Nebraska Communities United (NCU). "The staff report from the meeting contained a map from June 2016 that shows a large expansion of buildings that was not part of the public process to promote this project last summer. Accuracy and transparency do not appear to be high on their list of priorities.”

The issues addressed in the amended complaint involve a large expansion of the processing plant, an increase in the size of the feed mill and hatchery, and new “extraordinary grading.” Also tacked on is a hefty $5 million in additional TIF money for the project. The increased tax-dollar grab is based on the fact that the size and scope of the project will increase an estimated 44 percent. The total TIF amount for the project now stands at $18, 322,000 -- a surge of over $5 million from the original $13,475,000 in taxpayer money.

“It’s simple. They want more,” said Ruppert, “And this community would be foolish to think it’s the last time.”

A review of the amended plan appears to reveal that the “extraordinary grading” could change the elevation of the Costco-Lincoln site in some areas from a 500-year floodplain to a much riskier 100-year floodplain. The proposed plant’s proximity to the Platte River creates potential health and environmental issues for many Nebraskans.

“Recent rain events during the last few years prove that our environment has changed and that so-called 100-year flood events are occurring more like every few years,” said Denise Richards, a member of the NCU steering committee. “With the 100-year mark breached more frequently, we need to ask ourselves -- what will happen if this huge operation is repeatedly flooded and its waste and contaminants run into the Platte?”

Originally named “Project Rawhide,” the proposed massive Costco-owned poultry operation will be operated by Lincoln Premium Poultry, a subsidiary of Georgia-based Crider Foods. Lincoln Premium Poultry plans to run a sprawling industrial poultry processing complex that will include a 360,000-square-foot slaughter facility processing nearly 470,000 chickens a day, an 85,000-square-foot hatchery , and a 32,000-square-foot mill that will make 1.314 million tons of animal feed a year, according to a recent Lincoln Star Journal report.

Lifelong local farmer and NCU member John Schauer supports Jaksha and Allen in their legal action, and wonders when the City of Fremont will begin to put public health and the rule of law first.

"The amended plans now show a sewage lagoon and stormwater retention pond sited nearly on top of what appears to be a public water supply well,” said Schauer. “There are state and federal laws preventing this type of situation from happening. Why do Costco and the Fremont City Council think they’re above the law?"



Nebraska Recognized for Student Involvement in Farm Bureau at AFBF

The Nebraska Farm Bureau Federation (NFBF) was recognized at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2017 Annual Convention for its performance in membership achievement and implementation of outstanding programs serving Farm Bureau members in 2016.

Nebraska earned its first President’s and New Horizon Award. The President’s Award is presented for meeting membership quota and demonstrated superiority in the Awards for Excellence categories. The New Horizon Award focuses on the state Farm Bureau with the most innovative new programs. Nebraska Farm Bureau was honored for its development of The Crew, a program designed to engage Farm Bureau student members through social media. Farm Bureau.

“We are very honored to receive these recognitions,” Steve Nelson NFBF president said Jan. 9.  “The New Horizon Award was especially nice because Nebraska Farm Bureau places high priority on training the next generation of agriculture leaders as part of our strategic plan. In coordination with NFBF student membership, The Crew is provided as an added benefit of being a student member and an opportunity to gain hands on agriculture communication experience. We are proud of this program and the growth it has shown,” Nelson said.

Nebraska was also recognized in all of the Awards of Excellence categories. The Awards of Excellence is given to state Farm Bureaus that demonstrate outstanding achievements in six program areas: Education and Outreach; Leadership Development; Member Benefits; Membership Initiatives; Policy Development and Implementation; and Public Relations and Communications.

Nebraska was also one of 32 State Farm Bureaus recognized for receiving the Apex Award. The Apex Award is given to state Farm Bureaus that have increased total contributions to the American Farm Bureau Foundation by 10 percent or more over the previous year. The Foundation supports agriculture literacy across the nation. The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2017 Annual Convention & IDEAg Trade Show is from Jan. 7-10.



Lancaster County Farm Bureau Honored at AFBF Annual Convention

Congratulations to Lancaster County Farm Bureau who was, one of 34 county Farm Bureaus nationwide, honored by the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) for innovative program ideas in the organization’s County Activities of Excellence Awards (CAE) program. The winners were highlighted at AFBF’s 2017 Annual Convention & IDEAg Trade Show, which runs through Jan. 11.

Lancaster County Farm Bureau held an Antique Tractor & Car Show in Lincoln’s Haymarket District Aug. 17, 2016. The Ag Night Antique Tractor and Car Show provided an opportunity to connect people who live in the capital city back to the farm.

The event was a hands-on learning environment, celebrating the days gone by with classic cars and antique tractors, while looking forward to the future of ag innovation. Local area farmers and car enthusiasts were on hand to answer questions about equipment and discuss Nebraska’s roots in agriculture.

“It’s a pleasure to recognize the outstanding efforts of grassroots Farm Bureau members who join at the county level,” said NFBF President Steve Nelson. “Members are the heart and soul of Farm Bureau. It’s encouraging to see the creative way Lancaster County reached out to their urban counterparts to share information about today’s food and farming system.”

This year’s CAE award winners, come from 11 states besides Nebraska. They include: California, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia.



Nebraska’s Levrack Team Wins People’s Choice Contest in Farm Bureau Rural Entrepreneurship Challenge

Congratulations to the Levrack team of Ryan and Austin Stauffer and Peter Miller of Seward and Windcall Manufacturing, led by Martin Bremmer of Venago, for participating in the American Farm Bureau Federation’s (AFBF) Rural Entrepreneurship Challenge. These two entrepreneurial teams were part of the final four to compete for Farm Bureau’s Entrepreneur of the Year by pitching their business ideas to a panel of judges before a live audience. The four finalists each received $15,000 in October for advancing in the competition.

The Levrack team won the People’s Choice award in the competition and an additional $10,000 in prize money. They garnered 73 percent of the vote, when members of the live audience at the finals competition and members of the general public voted online to select the People’s Choice winner. Levrack produces efficient storage systems for farm shops. Bremmer’s business, Windcall Manufacturing, Inc., designed a product called the GrainGoat, a hand-held harvester that collects, cleans, and calculates the moisture of small grains all within minutes.

“We are proud of our Nebraska entrepreneurs and we are excited about the participation in this program from Nebraska innovators. We look forward to this program opening new doors for other rural entrepreneurs. This national competition is a great way to connect people with great ideas to financial and mentorships opportunities, to support rural businesses that will strengthen rural communities in Nebraska,” Audrey Smith, director of generational engagement said Jan. 9.

American Farm Bureau Federation’s entrepreneur winner was Vertical Harvest Hydroponics of Alaska. The team was led by Linda Janes and Dan Perpich. AFBF announced the winner at its 2017 Annual Convention & IDEAg Trade Show in Phoenix. Janes and Perpich took home a total of $30,000 in prize money, including $15,000 from sponsor Farm Bureau Bank to produce hydroponic vegetables housed in 40’ insulated shipping containers.

Grow Bioplastics of Tennessee, led by Tony Bova, was the other finalists who competed in the final round of the challenge in Phoenix.

The challenge, now in its third year, provides opportunities for individuals to showcase business innovations being developed in rural regions of the U.S. It is the first national business competition focused exclusively on rural entrepreneurs working on food and agriculture businesses. The top challenge teams were selected by 40 judges with expertise in business development, equity investment funding management, agribusiness lending, and entrepreneurial coaching.



State Ag and Rural Leaders Explore How CommonGround Bridges Gap with Consumers

Last weekend, CommonGround volunteer Dawn Caldwell, who farms and ranches in Edgar, Neb., spoke about how the program addresses consumers concerns about food, farming and ranching as part of a panel at the annual meeting of the State and Ag Rural Leaders. SARL, which fosters cooperation, leadership and educational opportunities among and for state and provincial legislators, brought together this panel and focus group to help attendees better understand consumer concerns and also to look at the best ways to work with agriculture to foster productive communications.

The panel, which opened the conference during initial general session, began with a consumer focus group on food topics including the use of GMOs, pesticides, grocery purchasing patterns and antibiotic and hormone use in animal ag. Following the consumer focus group, Caldwell and presenters from SaksCanola and the Foundation for Biomedical Research shared their own experiences working to address consumer concerns. Caldwell highlighted the activities of CommonGround over the past six years, shared the importance of the program's positive approach and urged legislators to work to launch a program in their state if one was not already in place.

"Legislators hear from all sides of each argument on a regular basis," Caldwell said on her experience.  "To ensure that our voices are heard, we must not only speak up but also help them understand what we have learned thus enabling them to better speak on our behalf. By working together with our elected representatives on these important educational issues, we can amplify our voices and reach a broader and more diverse audience."

During her time speaking, she also mentioned important work done by the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance, such as the curriculum developed to accompany the movie Farmland and involvement in events targeting food influencers.



 Signs of Insecticide Resistance Appear in Soybean Aphid Treatments

The "2016 Yellow Book for Soybean Aphid" (CROP 3109) is now available as a free download through the Extension Store. The publication provides soybean aphid treatment recommendations and application rates based on research conducted at the Iowa State University Northeast Research and Demonstration Farm and the Northwest Research and Demonstration Farm in 2016. The report also includes insecticide effectiveness on the soybean aphid and yield, and information on the soybean aphid life cycle and scouting methods.

The Yellow Book has been published annually since 2005 with trial results and evaluations. Erin Hodgson, associate professor and extension specialist in entomology at Iowa State University, has been writing the publication since 2009.

For the first time during the 2016 growing season, insecticide failure was confirmed in Iowa. Pyrethroids are a common insecticide group, but did not have any knockdown in this commercial field.

“This may force farmers to switch to a different kind of insecticide, most likely organophosphates,” Hodgson said. “If pyrethroid resistance becomes more common, it limits the tools that can be used and can increase input costs.”

Checking to make sure insecticides are working now becomes a priority.

“If you are going to apply a foliar insecticide, make sure to go back and scout to insure there are no survivors after application,” Hodgson said.

Hodgson will present much more information about the insecticide failure during the 2017 Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Crop Advantage Series meetings.

Researchers used land in two sections of the state, getting dramatically different results in each area. Soybean aphid populations never reached their threshold at the Northeast Research Farm, while significantly exceeding that threshold at the Northwest Research Farm.

“Overall in my evaluations, treating with insecticides at the economic threshold provides a strong yield response,” Hodgson said. “That tells me the threshold is still valid and farmers should adopt scouting to reduce input costs.”



November Pork Exports Set New Record; Beef Exports also Strong

U.S. red meat exports continued to build momentum in November, highlighted by a new monthly volume record for pork exports. Both pork and beef exports exceeded year-ago levels by more than 20 percent in both volume and value, according to statistics released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF).

November pork exports totaled 225,757 metric tons (mt), up 24 percent year-over-year and breaking the previous record (218,132 mt) set in October 2012. Export value was $586.8 million, up 30 percent from a year ago and the highest since May 2014. For January through November, pork export volume was up 7 percent from a year ago to 2.09 million mt, while export value increased 5 percent to $5.38 billion.

Even with U.S. pork production reaching record levels, exports are accounting for a larger share. November export volume equated to 28 percent of total production and 23 percent for muscle cuts only – substantial increases over the November 2015 ratios of 24 percent and 21 percent. For January through November, exports accounted for 25.5 percent of total production and 21.4 percent for muscle cuts – up from 24.2 percent and 20.9 percent, respectively, in 2015. November export value averaged $55.09 per head slaughtered, up 19 percent year-over-year. The January-November average was $49.63 per head, up 2 percent.

November was also a very strong month for beef exports, which totaled 155,335 mt – up 20 percent year-over-year and the largest since July 2013. Export value increased 21 percent to $619.1 million, the highest since December 2014. This pushed January-November export volume to 1.07 million mt (up 10 percent year-over-year) valued at $5.72 billion (down 1 percent).

November exports accounted for nearly 15 percent of total beef production and 11.7 percent for muscle cuts only – the highest levels since 2014. January-November exports accounted for 13.5 percent and 10.3 percent, respectively – up from 13 percent and 10 percent during the same period in 2015. Beef export value per head of fed slaughter reached a 2016 high of $294.39 in November, up 5 percent from a year ago. For January through November, per-head export value averaged $258.48, down 7 percent.

“With recent increases in both pork and beef production, the U.S. industry faces a significant challenge in terms of moving these larger supplies,” said Philip Seng, USMEF president and CEO. “But with aggressive and well-targeted international marketing efforts, this also presents an outstanding opportunity to grow our market share in established export destinations and cultivate new opportunities in emerging markets. U.S. exports are achieving success on both fronts, and USMEF is committed to keeping this strong momentum going in the New Year.”

Mexico a powerful pacesetter, but positive results across the board for U.S. pork
Demand for U.S. pork gained further momentum in Mexico in November, where a fifth consecutive record year for export volume is now within reach. November exports totaled 73,984 mt, up 21 percent year-over-year and pushing January-November volume (649,992 mt) nearly even with the record pace of 2015. Export value was up 32 percent in November ($139.2 million) and January-November export value increased 4 percent to $1.19 billion.

Though still lower year-over-year, pork exports to leading value market Japan continued to strengthen in November, increasing 24 percent from a year ago in volume (37,317 mt) and 35 percent in value ($153.4 million, the highest since April 2015). Through November, export volume to Japan was down 5 percent to 357,808 mt, while export value ($1.44 billion) pulled within 1 percent of the previous year’s pace. 2016 will be a record year for chilled pork exports to Japan, which were up 10 percent through November to 201,828 mt.

Other highlights to U.S. pork include:
-    While pork muscle cut exports to China/Hong Kong continue moderate, pork variety meat demand remains very strong. In November, pork variety meat exports to the region increased more than 90 percent in volume (32,398 mt) from a year ago and more than doubled in value ($69.9 million). Through November, pork variety meat exports were up 60 percent in volume (281,273 mt) and 51 percent in value ($569 million), while combined pork and pork variety meat exports totaled 497,701 mt (up 63 percent) valued at $978.9 million (up 55 percent).
-    Pork exports to Central and South America increased 7 percent in volume through November to 120,502 mt, valued at $297.4 million (up 5 percent). Year-over-year increases were achieved in all seven Central American countries, led by mainstay markets Honduras and Guatemala, as well as in Chile. After a difficult first half, exports to Colombia have rebounded significantly in the past four months and are now just below their 2015 pace.
-    January-November exports to Canada were up 2 percent from a year ago in both volume (186,724 mt) and value ($731 million). This included a 13 percent increase in pork variety meat volume (12,451 mt), valued at $17.8 million (up 5 percent).
-    Larger exports to both Australia and New Zealand pushed January-November exports to the Oceania region up 9 percent year-over-year in volume (63,653 mt) and 2 percent higher in value ($179.6 million).

Led by Japan and Korea, Asian markets shine for U.S. beef
Following a down year in 2015, U.S. beef exports to Japan continue to stage a very impressive rebound. November exports to Japan surged by 63 percent in volume (23,598 mt) and 58 percent in value ($149.5 million) from a year ago. For January through November, export volume increased 24 percent to 237,234 mt. This included a 44 percent increase in chilled exports to 102,090 mt. January-November export value to Japan increased 16 percent to $1.39 billion.

Beef exports to South Korea have already set a new value record ($929.3 million, up 25 percent), breaking last year’s mark of $847.4 million in just 11 months. When 2016 results are final, Korea will become the fifth market (joining Japan, Mexico, Hong Kong and Canada) in which U.S. exports have exceeded $1 billion in a single year. January-November export volume to Korea was 158,947 mt, up 38 percent year-over-year. This included a 37 percent increase in chilled beef exports to 20,325 mt.

Other highlights for U.S. beef exports include:
-    November was another very strong month for beef exports to Taiwan, pushing January-November results 22 percent above of the 2015 pace in volume (39,299 mt) and 10 percent higher in value to $319.5 million – already setting a new full-year value record.
-    Fueled by a resurgence in shipments to Indonesia, January-November beef exports to the ASEAN region increased 32 percent in volume (26,003 mt) and 8 percent in value ($138.6 million). Exports also posted impressive gains in Vietnam, helping offset lower exports to the Philippines.
-    Beef exports to Mexico continue to strengthen in volume, which was up 8 percent through November to 217,790 mt. Export value to Mexico was down 10 percent to $891.1 million.
-    Beef variety meat exports increased 10 percent from a year ago in volume (308,712 mt) through November and 4 percent in value ($820.7 million). This performance was bolstered by the addition of Indonesia, which reopened to beef variety meat in August, and South Africa, which was closed to all U.S. beef products until last January. Both are now top 10 volume markets for beef variety meat.

Momentum continues to grow for lamb muscle cut exports
January-November lamb exports were lower year-over-year in both volume (7,931 mt, down 5 percent) and value ($16.7 million, down 3 percent) due to weak variety meat demand. But lamb muscle cuts continue to trend upward, increasing 21 percent in volume (1,991 mt) through November and 13 percent in value ($11 million). November muscle cut exports to leading market Mexico were the highest of 2016 at 182 mt, and results were also bolstered by strong exports to Vietnam, Bermuda and the Netherlands Antilles.



Pig Farmers Very Aware of and Complying with New Antibiotic Rules

U.S. pig farmers are not only well aware of new federal rules for on-farm antibiotic use, but already are complying. In a survey conducted by the National Pork Board in November, 95 percent of pig farmers surveyed said that they were ready to be fully compliant by the time the rules took effect on Jan. 1, 2017.

“The pork industry worked toward the Jan. 1 implementation date for nearly two years. There was a concern that some producers would not make changes until after the date of implementation, but that does not seem to be the case,” said Jan Archer, National Pork Board president and a pig farmer from Goldsboro, North Carolina. “Pig farmers are committed to the substantive changes regarding antibiotic use, and many discontinued using antibiotics for growth promotion years ago, while also reviewing swine medical treatment uses of antibiotics as well.”

One of the key changes to the new Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rules is that medically important antibiotics could no longer be used for growth promotion. Today, human medically important antibiotics can only be used to treat sick animals or to prevent disease and/or control it.

Archer added that a key hurdle in complying with new FDA rules is ensuring that every pig farmer has a defined and ongoing client relationship with a veterinarian. That can be a challenge in remote areas of the country where the nearest veterinarian could be hundreds of miles away. Last month the Pork Checkoff announced a partnership with Global Vetlink of Ames, Iowa, to offer a veterinarian locator tool, which is available at pork.org/antibiotics.

“Complying with the new rules is critical to maintaining consumer trust in the high quality and safety of pork produced in the U.S.,” Archer said. “The two key elements are having an established veterinarian-client-patient relationship and ensuring that antibiotics are administered under the guidance of a veterinarian. To do so without veterinarian oversight is now illegal.”

In addition to information about antibiotic use changes, the National Pork Board’s annual November survey was designed to take the pulse of U.S. pork production. The survey showed that for the seventh consecutive year, pork producer support for the Pork Checkoff increased and is now at a record 91 percent – up 1 percent from the 2015 survey. Meanwhile, opposition to the Checkoff remains at a record low 4 percent. These results are the most positive in the history of the survey.
 
Other highlights included:
-    Right direction/wrong track: 76 percent of producers – a full three out of four – said that the industry is heading “in the right direction,” improving from the previous year’s score of 70 percent. Of those surveyed, 19 percent feel the industry is “on the wrong track.” This improvement in optimism is encouraging despite the market supply pressure many are feeling with lower prices for pigs.
-    The biggest challenge facing producers is “too many rules/regulations.” In previous years, the main challenge was viewed as “managing hog health and disease.” That previously No. 1 concern fell to No. 4 this year, a significant drop. 
-    Single most important request: Producers’ No. 1 request of the Checkoff is to educate consumers on pork production and the industry. This was followed closely by advertising and promoting pork and opening new markets.

“America’s pig farmers understand that growing domestic and export demand for pork is critical, but it all starts with building trust,” Archer said. “This survey bears out that it begins with educating consumers about how pigs are raised, pork’s safety and its nutritional value.”

In response to specific questions about the National Pork Board’s strategic plan implemented early in 2015, the awareness and importance of each goal remains strong. On a 10-point scale:
-    Build Consumer Trust rated a mean score of 8.91 (a decrease from 9.04 in 2015).
-    Grow Consumer Demand rated a mean score of 8.70 (an increase from 8.63 in 2015).
-    Drive Sustainable Production rated a mean score of 8.18 (an increase from 7.96 in 2015).

“Clearly, the implementation of the strategic plan is aligned with the concerns, interests and thoughts of producers,” Archer said. “Pig farmers tell us that their investment in the Pork Checkoff is at work, with 17 defined objectives directly supporting each of the three goals.”

This most recent national survey is based on phone interviews with 550 producers across the country.



Interactive 2016 CBB annual report highlights results

The 2016 Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) Annual Report now is available to provide results of Beef Checkoff Programs to the beef producers and importers who invest in this national self-help program. Located at http://2016annualreport.beefboard.org/, the report is offered in electronic form only, though the publishing program allows for interactive examples of checkoff programs and conversion to a pdf document for easy self-printing.

Included in the annual report is a letter from CBB Chairman Anne Anderson, an overview of revenues and expenditures for fiscal 2016, as well as names and photos of the beef producers and importers who served on the Board during the year. In addition, you’ll find summaries of results from each Beef Board budget category; these include promotion, research, consumer information, industry information, foreign marketing, and producer communications, and a multitude of storytelling images.

The goal of the publication is to demonstrate to beef producers and importers who pay into the checkoff not only how their dollars are being invested, but also the results of those investments. (In addition to the direct link above, all CBB annual reports since the start of the national checkoff program are available on MyBeefCheckoff.com, at http://www.beefboard.org/library/annual-reports.asp.)

“Fiscal 2016 marked the 30th year of national demand-building programs funded by America’s beef producers and importers,” said Chairman Anderson. “This is particularly momentous to me, because I remember participating in the meetings and phone calls and faxes and discussions that led to 79 percent of America’s beef producers voting to create this much-needed program to build demand for beef.

“As a cattle producer and the 2016 chairman of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board,” she continued, “I can say with confidence that our checkoff dollars have been and continue to be invested for the benefit of our entire beef community and in concert with what producers said they wanted the program to do from its very start."



Commodity Classic Learning Center Sessions Feature Wide Range of Relevant Topics

The schedule of Learning Center Sessions has been announced for the 2017 Commodity Classic, March 2-4, 2017, in San Antonio, Tex. Commodity Classic is America’s largest farmer-led, farmer-focused convention and trade show.

Education is a hallmark of Commodity Classic—and Learning Centers are just one of the many educational opportunities during the event.  Learning Centers are in-depth discussions of current issues and topics that have a direct impact on a farmer’s operation, production and profitability.

“Learning Center presentations are selected by farmers for farmers, so that means you can be assured that the content, presenters and information are relevant, current and essential to a farmer’s success,” said Kevin Ross, an Iowa farmer and co-chair of the 2017 Commodity Classic.  “During these challenging times, it’s even more important for all of us to ‘farmer up’ and find ways to become even smarter, more efficient and more profitable.”

Learning Center Sessions on Thursday, March 2, include:
-    “Break Through Yield Barriers:  Production Practices for High-Yield Acres Nationwide” sponsored by Stoller USA: A panel of growers shares their season-long approaches to managing crops for maximum performance.
-    “The Ag Economy Barometer:  A Look at Conditions Headed into 2017” sponsored by Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture:  A panel discussion of key economic and financial insights producers need to know heading into 2017.

Learning Center Sessions on Friday, March 3, are as follows:
-    “The Link Between USDA Statistics and Administration of Farm Bill Programs” sponsored by USDA National Agricultural Statistics Services (NASS) and National Corn Growers Association: How statistics and grower data are used to implement Farm Bill programs.
-    “Plant Health:  A Pivotal Input in a Successful Management Plan” sponsored by BASF:  How growers can reduce risk on their operation and maximize yield potential with healthy plants throughout the season.
-    “Achieving Sustainability with a Certified Crop Adviser” sponsored by American Society of Agronomy’s International Certified Crop Adviser Program:
-    “Collaboration is Key to the Future of Mississippi Watershed:  Agriculture, Conservation, Transportation working Together for America’s Watershed Initiative” sponsored by National Corn Growers Association: How stakeholders are working together to improve the economic and environmental assets in the 31- state Mississippi River Watershed.
-    “Taking Weed Management to the Next Level” sponsored by Monsanto Company:  A discussed on weed management best practices with a focus on dicamba application and improved stewardship.
-    “Mitigating Risk, Maximizing Input Efficiency and Farm Profitability, and Increasing Sustainability with Drip Irrigation Technology” sponsored by Netafim: An examination of the role of rip irritation in high-yield growth strategies.
-    “Lady Luck, is Thy Name La Nina?” sponsored by DTN/The Progressive Farmer:  Agricultural Meteorologist Bryce Anderson discusses the potential impact of weather patterns on the 2017 growing season.
-    “Preserving New Soybean Herbicide Technologies in the First Against Resistant Weeds” sponsored by Syngenta: A discussion of herbicide resistance and preserving the efficacy of soybean technologies.
-    “Soil Health Farming:  Optimizing the Use of Cover Crop, Conservation Tillage and Nutrient Management Approaches On-Farm for Economic Profitability, Productivity and Environmental Protection” sponsored by National Corn Growers Association: A panel discussion soil health practices featuring farmers, educators and crop consultants.

Learning Center sessions scheduled for Saturday, March 4, are:
-    “The Emerging Bioeconomy:  Opportunities and Challenges in Achieving Scale” sponsored by Corn Refiners Association:  A discussion of the barriers, opportunities and potential of the bioeconomy.
-    “Capturing the Genetic Potential of Today’s Hybrids” sponsored by AgriGold Hybrids:  NCGA Corn Yield Champion Randy Dowdy shares keys to achieving higher yields.
-    “Hot Topic from Our Nation’s Capital 2017” sponsored by John Deere:  A panel of DC insiders will share their thoughts on what lies ahead for farm policy in Washington, DC in 2017 and beyond.
-    “GMOs and Sustainability Go Hand ‘n Hand” sponsored by U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance:  A presentation on how farmers can talk with consumers about the sustainability behind GMO technology.

Details on the Learning Center sessions as well as other educational offerings at the 2017 Commodity Classic are available at www.commodityclassic.com.   Registration and housing are also available at this website.

Commodity Classic also features a huge trade show, entertainment and the opportunity to network with thousands of America’s best farmers.

Established in 1996, Commodity Classic is produced by the National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Sorghum Producers, and Association of Equipment Manufacturers.



Families Projected to Spend an Average of $233,610 Raising a Child Born in 2015

Today, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the 2015 Expenditures on Children by Families report, also known as "The Cost of Raising a Child." The report, developed by economists at USDA's Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion (CNPP), estimates that for a child born in 2015, a middle-income* married-couple family will spend between $12,350 and $13,900 annually (in 2015 dollars) – or $233,610 from birth through age 17 – on child-rearing expenses. Families with lower incomes are expected to spend $174,690 and families with higher incomes are expected to spend $372,210 from birth through age 17. Many state governments use this annual report, first issued in 1960, as a resource in determining child support and foster care guidelines.

"As the economy continues to improve, USDA is committed to supporting the nutrition and health of individuals and families through our research and programs," said Kevin Concannon, Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services. "This report, which we have produced for 55 years, gives families a greater awareness of the expenses they are likely to face, and serves as a valuable tool for financial planning and educational programs, as well as courts and state governments."

"Understanding the costs of raising children and planning for anticipated and unexpected life events is an important part of securing financial health. The U.S. Department of the Treasury, among other Federal agencies, has a wealth of information and tools that can help Americans plan for their future. MyMoney.gov can help you make a budget, find assistance with child care costs and save for emergencies or big purchases like a home or college education," said Louisa Quittman, Director of the Office of Financial Security for the U.S. Department of the Treasury. "MyMoney.gov can also help you provide money management lessons for your children to help them be more prepared for their financial future."

The report details spending by married-couple and single-parent households; for married-couple households, spending in various regions of the country are examined. Housing (29 percent) and food (18 percent) account for the largest share of child-rearing expenses for middle-income, married-couple families, followed by childcare/education (16 percent), transportation (15 percent), and health care (9 percent). Clothing was the smallest expense, at 6 percent, and other miscellaneous child-rearing necessities from birth to age 18 accounted for 7 percent. This report does not include costs related to pregnancy or college costs.

"When CNPP first issued this report in 1960, housing and food were the two highest expenses, just as they are today," said CNPP Executive Director Angie Tagtow. "But while housing costs have increased over time, changes in American agriculture have resulted in lower food costs, and family food budgets now represent a lower percentage of household income. For families who wish to lower their food costs even more, we offer a variety of resources at ChooseMyPlate.gov/budget."

Across the country, costs were highest in the urban Northeast, urban West, and urban South; while lowest in the urban Midwest and rural areas. Much of the regional variation in expenses was related to housing. Differences in child care and education expenses also contributed to regional variation. Overall, child-rearing expenses in rural areas were 24 percent lower than those in the region with the highest expenses, the urban Northeast.

It is important to note that child-rearing costs vary greatly depending on the number and ages of children in a household. As family size increases, costs per child generally decrease. Report author and CNPP economist Mark Lino, PhD emphasized how significantly costs are impacted by the number of children in a household.

"There are significant economies of scale, with regards to children, sometimes referred to as the 'cheaper by the dozen effect.' As families increase in size, children may share a bedroom, clothing and toys can be reused, and food can be purchased in larger, more economical packages." said Dr. Lino.

As a result, compared to a child in a two-child family, families with one child spend 27 percent more on the only child and families with three or more children spend 24 percent less on each child.

CNPP economists used data from the most recent Consumer Expenditure Survey to present the most recent and comprehensive estimates. The full report, Expenditures on Children by Families, 2015, is available on the web at www.cnpp.usda.gov. The CNPP website also offers downloadable infographics and an interactive Cost of Raising a Child Calculator that can be used to view costs associated with different geographic locations, income levels and family sizes.



First-year users report exceptional performance from Trivapro® fungicide

With the new growing season around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about inputs for 2017. As growers weigh their fungicide options, Syngenta presents 2016 performance data and testimonials for Trivapro® fungicide to remove any question about which fungicide will help them get the job done.

During its first season of use, Trivapro combatted gray leaf spot, Northern corn leaf blight and rust in several states and helped crops withstand extreme weather like heavy wind, rain and drought. Its long-lasting residual control of diseases and crop-enhancement benefits helped protect leaf integrity, resulting in lengthened grain-fill window and maximized yield potential at harvest.

Across the Midwest and South, Trivapro-treated acres produced:
·         An average of 27 bushels per acre (bu/A) more corn than untreated[1]
·         An average of 8 bu/A more soybeans than untreated[2]
·         Between 11 and 27 bu/A more wheat than untreated and competitive brands[3].

“Despite the adverse weather and other bad conditions we experienced, Trivapro fungicide kept our corn green and healthy,” said Luke Lauritsen, a grower and Golden Harvest® Seed AdvisorTM in Arlington, Nebraska. “We were very happy with its 45-day residual control.”

Even under stress from disease and unpredictable weather, Trivapro-treated fields were stronger and visibly superior to untreated checks and competitive brands. In fact, Trivapro was the only fungicide rated excellent for Southern rust control by several university extensions including: Purdue, Tennessee and Arkansas. Across all registered crops, first-year users experienced this high-level of control from Trivapro firsthand.

Randy James, a wheat grower in Dayton, Washington explained, “Visually, we definitely saw a difference, and then when we looked at the yield, we had a 14-bushel increase compared to Priaxor® and Propi-Star®, the other treatment we used.”

Trivapro contains three active ingredients – azoxystrobin, propiconazole and Solatenol® fungicide – that combine to provide both preventive and curative disease control. Solatenol binds tightly to the waxy layer of the leaf, setting it apart from competitive brands and increasing the length of control through the season.

“In several on-farm trials, Trivapro residual lasted 15 to 20 days longer than competitive brands. That type of result from a fungicide does more than pay for itself; it helps add to your bottom line,” said Andrew Fisher, fungicide brand manager at Syngenta. “Ultimately, if you want to control key diseases and maximize yield in 2017, Trivapro will provide the most value for your dollar.”