Thursday May 11 Ag News

45 Outstanding Students Awarded 2017 AKSARBEN AG Leaders Scholarship

The AKSARBEN Foundation today announced 45 students from a six-state region as the 2017 recipients of an AKSARBEN AG Leaders Scholarship. Together, the students will receive $90,000 in recognition of their contributions to the agricultural tradition of the Heartland.  

“The AG Leaders Scholarship program is designed to provide scholarships annually to youth who have participated in the stock show but never had the opportunity to participate in the Purple Ribbon Auction,” said Kevin Kock, Executive Director of AKSARBEN Agriculture Initiatives. “These students are leaders and by supporting their passion we hope to keep as many of them as possible leading our rural communities.”

Nearly 1,200 4-H Exhibitors from a 10-state region take part in the AKSARBEN 4-H Stock Show each year. Each AG Leaders Scholarship winner is a high school senior and 4-H Exhibitor who has participated in the stock show for three or more years. The scholars plan to attend a two or four-year college or university and have expressed interest in pursuing a career related to agriculture or a non-agriculture career within a rural community.

Scholarships are the core of AKSARBEN Foundation's mission. Founded in 1895, the non-profit organization, based in Omaha, NE, funds needs-based scholarship programs for Heartland youth, awarding over $1 million annually.

AKSARBEN Foundation President Sandra Reding said we are proud of these young people and very grateful to the donors who make this scholarship program possible.

“AG Leaders not only exemplifies the Foundation’s commitment to scholarships and agriculture,” Reding said. “It further demonstrates our mission of giving back to the community.”

The 2017 AKSARBEN AG Leaders Scholarship recipients from Nebraska are Blake Bauer from Fairbury, NE; Jessica Blaser from Columbus, NE; Jenna Bromm from Oakland, NE; Hannah Brudigam from Oakland, NE; Katie Entz from Mason City, NE; Jessica Fleischman from Herman, NE; Hannah Groth from Monroe, NE; Ty Groth from Monroe, NE; Blake Guenther from West Point, NE; Kiley Guenther from West Point, NE; Karleigh Kleinknecht from Cozad, NE; Connor Klitz from West Point, NE; Cody Lambrecht from Kennard, NE; Adam Oldemeyer from Firth, NE; Kelsey Padgett from Shelton, NE; Lindsey Padgett from Shelton, NE; Jamie Plagge from West Point, NE; Evan Pohl from Benedict, NE; Grant Romshek from Shelby, NE; Jessica Rudolph from Gothenburg, NE; Laura Scamehorn from Kearney, NE; Payton Schaneman from Denton, NE; Tejlor Strope from O’Neill, NE; Cora Svoboda from Ord, NE; Leah Treffer from Cozad, NE; and Louise Wiseman from Hershey, NE. 



AGPOCALYPSE 2050: VIDEO GAME PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS FOOD-ENERGY-WATER NEXUS

Could the solutions to feeding a booming global population be found through video gaming? Researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln are attempting to make their case.

Jeyam Subbiah, Kenneth E. Morrison Distinguished Professor of Food Engineering, is leading a team trying to stimulate interest in the food-energy-water nexus by developing an educational video game called Agpocalypse 2050.

The game was created around the projection that the global population is expected to reach 9 billion people by 2050, requiring twice the amount of food than what the world currently produces. Players are tasked with creating sustainable agricultural systems that will feed and fuel the world with limited resources under a changing climate. With each task, the players have to analyze at the system level, with the idea that they will gain an understanding of the dynamics between food, energy and water.

"Too often, food people work on food, energy people work on energy and water people work on water. They very rarely look at the interconnection between these systems," Subbiah said. "This game allows us to comprehensively look at the food, energy and water nexus using real-world situations, but without the risk of actually implementing system changes."

A fuel shortage is one example of the challenges an Agpocalypse 2050 player might face. To succeed in the game, the player must identify how a fuel shortage would affect fuel, ethanol, corn and distiller prices immediately and long-term. The player will have to make adjustments within each area to maintain a sustainable agricultural system. One day is equivalent to one year in the game. The players compete based on economic and sustainability metrics.

Subbiah came up with the idea while watching his son play a football video game. In the game, a player could go back to old Super Bowls and attempt to change the outcomes. Subbiah thought it would be interesting if there were a game that would allow a player to go back 10 or 15 years and attempt to yield a larger crop than the average Nebraska farmer. While the idea was relatively simple, Subbiah knew he would need help to make the game a reality.

"I had never designed a video game before," Subbiah said. "For people to really get excited about playing it, I knew the graphics would be extremely important.”

Ashu Guru, an assistant professor focused on 4-H youth development, is also involved with the project. Guru, who was director of the design studio at Nebraska's Jeffrey S. Raikes School of Computer Science and Management, reached out to Colleen Syron, assistant professor in the university’s School of Art, Art History and Design, who adapted her curriculum to include a unit on game design for her undergraduate interaction design class.

"I knew this project could be really special because not only did it bring a gaming component to the class, but it also created an in-class interdisciplinary learning environment," she said. "We brought experts into the classroom including economics professors, 4-H professionals, biological systems engineers, irrigation engineers, animal scientists, food scientists, environmental engineers and farmers. These client experts allowed students to also gain an understanding of an actual academic client relationship."

The first step for the design students was to research the food-energy-water nexus and the agricultural industry.

"Some of the students from urban areas did not know a thing about agriculture, which created a unique social component to the project because they could learn from other students who grew up on farms or ranches," Syron said.

Once the students felt comfortable with the food-energy-water nexus and the challenges facing sustainability, they split up into seven teams. Each team developed a different set of strategies for playing the game and designed graphics to go along with them. They then presented their games to Subbiah's team.

Agpocalypse 2050 is designed by undergraduate art student Jake Eiserman. Subbiah is now working with biological systems engineering graduate students Ryan Anderson and Nathan Rice to walk through each computational model for the game, along with the sustainability and profitability metrics.

One unique feature is the expert help section. Should a player ask for help, a character pops up that acts as an educator or specialist from Nebraska Extension. The characters will share information such as the difference between drip irrigation and center irrigation, or till and no-till. In addition to the character assistance, fact sheets and a web link to learn more about each topic will be available, Guru said.

Once the computational models are complete, students from the Raikes School will develop the game, under Guru's guidance.

The goal is to get Agpocalypse 2050 in front of urban middle and high school students. Jennifer Keshwani, assistant professor and science literacy specialist, is working with Omaha Bryan High School through the Urban Agricultural Career Academy to pilot the program. Corresponding educational materials will also be tested through Nebraska 4-H summer camps and an undergraduate food, energy and water in society minor at Nebraska.

The project is made possible by a three-year, $999,644 grant from the National Science Foundation.



Statement by Steve Nelson, President, Regarding Aetna Withdraw from Nebraska Health Insurance Exchange

"The decision by Aetna to pull out of the Nebraska health insurance exchange further demonstrates Obamacare is crumbling under its flawed philosophy of removing free market concepts from our nation’s health insurance system. Nebraska's farm and ranch families, many of whom get their health insurance from either the health insurance exchange or the open market, are the ones who will pay the very high price of Obamacare's failures.”

“Aetna’s departure leaves only one health insurance provider in the Nebraska exchange, and creates tremendous uncertainty for Nebraska farm and ranch families that find themselves with few "affordable" options Obamacare promised. While not perfect, the U.S. House passed the American Health Care Act that at least serves as a starting point to begin the necessary process of repealing and replacing the many problematic pieces of Obamacare. Now it is time for the Senate to act. All Nebraskans deserve a better system than the one currently provided by Obamacare."



Quality assurance sessions scheduled for Iowa pig farmers

The Iowa Pork Producers Association is partnering with the Iowa Pork Industry Center and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach to offer free Pork Quality Assurance Plus® (PQA Plus®) and Transport Quality Assurance® (TQA®) programs for Iowa pig farmers.

"Pork producers, their employees and pig transporters continue to show their dedication to continuous industry improvement through certification in PQA Plus and TQA," said IPPA President Curtis Meier. "These programs, along with the We Care initiative, continue to show our customers the strong commitment we have to food safety and animal care."

Special quality assurance training sessions will be hosted at the 2017 World Pork Expo on Wednesday, June 7, and around the state this summer. The expo session will be hosted in room A-2 of the Varied Industries Building on the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. Interested individuals should pre-register by contacting Carla Vanderheiden at (800) 372-7675 or cvanderheiden@iowapork.org. Pig farmers also can register at www.iowapork.org .

Session details are as follows:
Wednesday, June 7
TQA - 9:30 a.m. - Noon
PQA Plus - 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Additionally, PQA Plus and TQA training sessions will be offered in each of the eight IPPA districts throughout the summer. Here is the schedule:

District 5 - Monday, July 24 - Cass County Extension & Outreach - 805 West 10th St. - Atlantic
District 6 - Thursday, July 27 - Madison County Extension - 117 N. 1st Ave. - Winterset
District 1 - Monday, July 31 - Sioux County Ext. - 400 Central Ave. NW Ste. 700 - Orange City
District 7 - Tuesday, August 8 - Mahaska County Extension & Outreach - 212 N. I St. - Oskaloosa
District 4 - Tuesday, August 8 - Delaware Co Ext. & Outreach - 1417 N. Franklin St. - Manchester
District 8 - Tuesday, August 8 - Johnson Co Ext. & Outreach - 3109 Old Hwy. 218 S. - Iowa City
District 2 - Tuesday, August 22 - Humboldt Co Ext. & Outreach - 727 Sumner Ave. - Humboldt
District 3 - Tuesday, August 29 - Borlaug Learning Center - 3327 290th St - Nashua

All district locations offer TQA from 9:30 a.m. to noon and PQA Plus from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. All sessions are sponsored by IPPA and the Pork Checkoff. Producers are encouraged to pre-register to allow adequate space and materials. To pre-register or for more information, contact Carla Vanderheiden at (800) 372-7675 or cvanderheiden@iowapork.org, or visit www.iowapork.org. The form can be found under "Producers" and "Quality Assurance Programs."

PQA Plus and TQA are part of the industry aligned We Care responsible pork initiative, which establishes ethical principles for pork producers to produce safe food, protect and promote animal well-being, protect public health, safeguard natural resources, provide a safe work environment and contribute to a better quality of life in their communities.



Agri-Pulse Farm Opinion Poll: Growers see trade as hope for sour farm economy

With the farm economy stuck in a multiyear funk, Iowa soybean producers see trade as one of the big opportunities for improving their economic situation.

More than a third of 133 soybean farmers (34.5 percent) surveyed by Agri-Pulse said passing new trade agreements is the most important national issue affecting the profitability of their farm. Coming in second was maintaining the Renewable Fuel Standard (27.8 percent), followed by reducing regulatory burdens (13.5 percent).

Agri-Pulse Editor Sara Wyant, who helped collect and tabulate the results of the quarterly poll conducted in April with the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) said, farmers are closely following the trade agenda of President Donald Trump.

“Almost three quarters of respondents said they agree with his plan to renegotiate NAFTA,” Wyant said. “It’s clear that the farm economy depends on trade and that our farm exports to Mexico and to Canada are critical for agriculture.”

Poll participants were somewhat divided over the president’s decision to withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which would have joined the U.S. in a trading agreement with 11 other Pacific Rim nations. Forty-five percent disagreed with that move, while almost 38 percent backed his decision.

Perhaps the strongest response in the survey was to a question about the EPA. About 85 percent of the farmers surveyed said they “somewhat” or “strongly” agree with the executive orders Trump has issued rolling back agency regulations. Only 13 percent disagreed with those orders.

Meanwhile, for the fourth straight year, responding farmers said they expect weaker financial conditions and are “tightening their belts” to trim expenses. Almost 55 percent said they expect their economic outlook to worsen either slightly or significantly, with 31.5 percent predicting things to stay about the same. Almost half said they would be cutting back on farm expenses, with equipment and fertilizer at the top of their lists.

“During these lean economic times, farmers are focused on strong yields, building market share for U.S. and Iowa-grown soybeans and easing regulatory burdens,” said Grant Kimberley, ISA director of market development. “With expectations of a fourth consecutive year of record global soybean production, it’s critical that we find more uses and markets for soybeans. Thus far, demand is holding strong and we’ll continue to emphasize the importance of trade to elected leaders and buyers.”

With a still sluggish economy, respondents said they fail to see any jump coming in farmland values. In fact, 48 percent said farmland values will continue to fall while 46.6 percent said they would stay about the same. Predictions about cash rents were similar.

Farmers also weighed in on the next farm bill, with 38 percent saying they’d like to see more investment in crop insurance followed by more funding for the conservation title (23 percent).



Secretary Perdue Announces Creation of Undersecretary for Trade

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced the creation of an undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), a recognition of the ever-increasing importance of international trade to American agriculture.  Perdue made the announcement standing by barges filled with agricultural products along the banks of the Ohio River.  As part of a reorganization of USDA, Perdue also announced the standing up of a newly-named Farm Production and Conservation mission area to have a customer focus and meet USDA constituents in the field.  Finally, Perdue announced that the department’s Rural Development agencies would be elevated to report directly to the secretary of agriculture in recognition of the need to help promote rural prosperity.

Perdue issued a report to announce the changes, which address Congressional direction in the 2014 Farm Bill to create the new undersecretary for trade and also are a down payment on President Trump’s request of his cabinet to deliver plans to improve the accountability and customer service provided by departments.

“Food is a noble thing to trade.  This nation has a great story to tell and we've got producers here that produce more than we can consume,” said Secretary Perdue.  “And that’s good, because I’m a grow-it-and-sell-it kind of guy.  Our people in American agriculture have shown they can grow it, and we’re here to sell it in markets all around the world.”

Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs
Agricultural trade is critical for the U.S. farm sector and the American economy as a whole.  U.S. agricultural and food exports account for 20 percent of the value of production, and every dollar of these exports creates another $1.27 in business activity.  Additionally, every $1 billion in U.S. agricultural exports supports approximately 8,000 American jobs across the entire American economy.  As the global marketplace becomes even more competitive every day, the United States must position itself in the best way possible to retain its standing as a world leader.

“Our plan to establish an undersecretary for trade fits right in line with my goal to be American agriculture’s unapologetic advocate and chief salesman around the world.  By working side by side with our U.S. Trade Representative and Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, the USDA undersecretary for trade will ensure that American producers are well equipped to sell their products and feed the world,” Perdue said.

USDA’s reorganization seeks to place agencies in more logical order.  Under the existing structure, the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS), which deals with overseas markets, and the Farm Service Agency (FSA), which handles domestic issues, were housed under one mission area, along with the Risk Management Agency (RMA).  It makes much more sense to situate FAS under the new undersecretary for trade, where staff can sharpen their focus on foreign markets.

Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation
Additionally, a new undersecretary will be selected for a newly-named Farm Production and Conservation mission area, which is to focus on domestic agricultural issues.  Locating FSA, RMA, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service under this domestically-oriented undersecretary will provide a simplified one-stop shop for USDA’s primary customers, the men and women farming, ranching, and foresting across America.

“The men and women of American agriculture are hardy people, many of whom were born into the calling of feeding America and the world,” Perdue said.  “Their efforts are appreciated, and this adjustment to the USDA structure will help us help them in even better ways than before.”

Under the reorganization plan, the undersecretary for natural resources and environment will retain supervision of the U.S. Forest Service. A reduction in USDA workforce is not part of the reorganization plan.

Elevating Rural Development
Just as importantly, the USDA reorganization will elevate the Rural Development agencies to report directly to the secretary of agriculture to ensure that rural America always has a seat at the table.  Fighting poverty wherever it exists is a challenge facing the U.S., and the reality is that nearly 85 percent of America's persistently impoverished counties are in rural areas.  Rural childhood poverty rates are at their highest point since 1986, affecting one in four rural children, with deep poverty among children being more prevalent in rural areas (12.2 percent) than in urban areas (9.2 percent).  The vitality of small towns across our nation is crucial to the future of the agricultural economy and USDA must always argue for the needs of rural America.

“The economic health of small towns across America is crucial to the future of the agriculture economy. It is my commitment to always argue for the needs of rural America, which is why we are elevating Rural Development within USDA,” said Secretary Perdue. “No doubt, the opportunity we have here at the USDA in rural development is unmatched.”



Fischer Statement on Creation of New Undersecretary for Trade

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, today released the following statement regarding the creation of a new undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA):

“I welcome Secretary Perdue’s announcement today that he will follow the law and create this much-needed position at the USDA. This idea was a wise recommendation of my friend and former colleague, Senator Mike Johanns. The undersecretary for trade will expand opportunities for Nebraska producers to reach new markets and deliver more of their high-quality products to consumers around the world.”



Statement by Steve Nelson, President, Regarding Creation of New Position of USDA Undersecretary for Trade

"We are extremely pleased by today’s announcement by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue to create a new position of undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).”

“Agricultural trade is critical to Nebraska and this position will help ensure it remains a focal point for USDA into the future. As I’ve noted before, nearly 30 percent of U.S. farm income today comes from dollars generated from moving products into foreign markets. We appreciate the work of Sonny Perdue and former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns for helping make this a reality.”



Statement of NPPC President Ken Maschhoff on USDA Establishing an Undersecretary for Trade

NPPC is very pleased that Secretary Perdue is establishing within USDA an undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs, a position that we and others in agriculture fought to get included in the 2014 Farm Bill.

Clearly, the Trump administration recognizes the importance of exports to U.S. agriculture, which has a trade surplus. The new undersecretary can help convey our message to the administration that it should work to preserve and expand foreign market access for U.S. agricultural products.

NPPC looks forward to working with the undersecretary to advance trade policies that will be beneficial for U.S. agriculture, including free trade agreements that eliminate all tariff and non-tariff barriers to our products.



USMEF Statement on USDA Undersecretary for Trade

Earlier today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the creation of a USDA undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs. The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) issued the following statement:

USMEF strongly supports Secretary Perdue's establishment of an undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs within USDA, in accordance with the 2014 farm bill. USMEF was an early supporter of this initiative and we feel this will be a very positive addition to the department. We look forward to further details regarding this appointment.



USDA Reorganization Will Build Global Demand for U.S. Ag Products

Today U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the creation of a USDA Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs as part of a broader reorganization of the department. The following is a statement from Wesley Spurlock, president of the National Corn Growers Association:

“The National Corn Growers Association has long advocated for a dedicated position at USDA focused on increasing U.S. agricultural exports, and we pushed for this provision in the 2014 farm bill. We are pleased to see that post finally become a reality today.

“Secretary Perdue’s announcement signals to farm country that the Trump Administration is listening to America’s farmers and ranchers. In this farm economy, trade is more important than ever to farmers’ incomes. Overseas markets represent 73 percent of the world’s purchasing power, 87 percent of economic growth, and 95 percent of the world’s customers. Now is the time for U.S. agriculture to fully capitalize on the long-term, increased global demand for our products around the world. Today’s announcement is a big step toward that goal.

“NCGA looks forward to working with Secretary Perdue, the new Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs, and others throughout the Administration to ensure more consumers around the world are consuming American corn and corn products.”



Farm Bureau Praises Creation of New USDA Trade Undersecretary

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall today lauded the establishment of an undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“Secretary Perdue’s action to create an undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs is good news for farmers and ranchers, and assures that exports will receive daily attention at the USDA,” Duvall said. “We know that there are other, important changes coming to the department as part of a larger reorganization effort. We look forward to receiving and reviewing details of that plan, as well as the effect it will have on America’s farmers, ranchers and farm communities.

“It was clear throughout the secretary’s confirmation process that members of Congress – like the secretary himself – were eager to see him create the office of the undersecretary as required by the 2014 farm bill. Today’s announcement makes good on that commitment.”



NGFA, NAEGA commend Ag Secretary Perdue for Trade Undersecretary announcement

The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and North American Export Grain Association (NAEGA) today commended Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue for his "decisive and prompt" action in announcing a reorganization of the U.S. Department of Agriculture that includes the creation of a long-sought undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs position.

"It is highly significant that one of Secretary Perdue's first actions reflects his recognition of, and strong support for, the essential role that agricultural trade plays in the economic well-being of U.S. farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses, rural communities and the nation as a whole," said NGFA President Randy Gordon and NAEGA President and Chief Executive Officer Gary Martin. "Reorganizing its structure and mission areas along these more functional lines, combined with the appointment of strong and capable officials to fill these positions, will help ensure the ongoing success of USDA programs that support trade and  that USDA plays an influential role in helping inform and develop the Trump administration's overall trade strategies."

The NGFA and NAEGA noted that the U.S. food and agricultural sector is the world's largest and most efficient, providing food security to domestic and world consumers. 

"The economic benefits of agricultural trade have been enjoyed by U.S. farmers, ranchers, dairy operators, feed mills, grain elevators, feed ingredient suppliers, grain and food processors, and many other agricultural businesses," Gordon and Martin said.  "But those benefits also have accrued to the broader U.S. economy, particularly in terms of job creation and economic growth." 

The NGFA and NAEGA cited data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, as well as analyses conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, that has found that the food and agriculture sector supports more than 15 million U.S. jobs, creates more than $423 billion in annual U.S. economic activity, and represents the single largest U.S. manufacturing sector - constituting 12 percent of all U.S. manufacturing jobs. Every dollar in U.S. agricultural exports generates an additional $1.27 in U.S. economic activity.

"We look forward to working closely with Secretary Perdue and the new undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs and their team, as well as the White House, to build an even more robust and prosperous future for U.S. agricultural trade," Gordon and Martin said.



Cattlemen Applaud Changes made at USDA, including Establishment of USDA Undersecretary for Trade Positon

NCBA President Craig Uden today released the following statement in response to USDA’s restructuring and the decision to establish an Undersecretary for Trade, authorized under the 2014 Farm Bill:

“We believe the restructuring of USDA makes sense for cattlemen and women, providing a one-stop shop for producers who utilize the many services of the Farm Service Agency, the Risk Management Agency, and the Natural Resource Conservation Service. Additionally, having Rural Development directly reporting to the Secretary shows the emphasis he is placing on helping rural America.

“Furthermore, establishing this new Undersecretary for Trade position was one of our top priorities for 2017, so we are extremely pleased to see Secretary Perdue filling in the gaps left by the previous Administration. This position will play a vital role in leading USDA’s efforts to capitalize on foreign demand for U.S. agriculture products and we look forward to working with the Undersecretary to break down trade barriers and expand our ability to meet the growing demand for U.S. beef in key markets like Asia.”



ASA Cheers Creation of USDA Trade Under Secretary, will Closely Evaluate Reorganization

The American Soybean Association (ASA), which represents growers of the nation’s largest agricultural export, expressed strong support today for the establishment of an Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at USDA. The move comes as part of a larger reorganization of USDA by Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue. The post is one that ASA and other agriculture groups have long advocated for, including in a letter to the White House in late February. ASA President Ron Moore spoke on the new position and to the reorganization in a statement:

“The U.S. exports well over half of the soybeans we produce, and agriculture is one of only a handful of business sectors in the country with a positive trade balance--$17 billion last year. That success abroad leads to success here at home, returning billions to the economy and supporting more than a million jobs. To have USDA recognize the importance of farm trade by creating this position is very encouraging, and we appreciate the administration’s foresight in doing so. We know that President Trump has big ideas on trade, and it will be imperative to have high-level officials within the administration who understand the intricacies of global agriculture markets. Secretary Perdue has shown himself to be an advocate for agricultural trade, and the new Under Secretary will be a similarly major part of those conversations.

“Concerning a reorganization this comprehensive, ASA will need time to evaluate the impacts of the shift in mission areas, and any potential reallocation of resources to determine their effects on soybean farmers. We will review the new structure with a careful eye, looking to make sure that the new USDA increases efficiency, while keeping its commitment to expanding markets both at home and abroad for farmers; investing in rural infrastructure and development; meeting conservation goals; and helping U.S. farmers maintain their role as providers of food for the world’s hungry.”



NAWG Applauds USDA Reorganization Efforts, Urges Farmer Input During Transition Process

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the creation of an undersecretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).  He continued by declaring that the reorganization includes the formation of a newly-named Farm Production and Conservation mission area to have a customer focus and meet USDA constituents in the field.

NAWG President David Schemm made the following statement:

“Mandated in the 2014 Farm Bill, the establishment of this Undersecretary position emphasizes the mutual importance of agriculture and trade to the American economy.

“NAWG applauds the USDA for emphasizing the importance of trade by creating a specific mission area devoted to the Department’s trade programs.  This move highlights the significance that programs like the Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) program play in promoting wheat and other ag commodities all over the world.

“We also commend the Administration for recognizing the value of American agricultural products to international markets.

“Further, NAWG appreciates USDA’s efforts to streamline agencies that producers interact with locally by moving NRCS into the same mission area as the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the Risk Management Agency (RMA).  We hope this effort will also lead to streamlining the paperwork of the programs administered by these agencies.

“Our producers rely on trade access throughout the world. It’s vital that whomever fills this new position ensures that American wheat growers are made a priority in trade negotiations.

“NAWG is ready to work with the Administration in its search for a qualified candidate to fill this position and encourages them to use farmers and their farm organizations as a sounding board as the process moves forward.”



Nebraska Farm Bureau Tells New U.S. Trade Representative Not to Sacrifice Agriculture in Trade Policy

In a letter to newly confirmed United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, Nebraska Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson made it clear that agriculture shouldn’t be sacrificed for the benefit of other U.S. industries under the Trump Administration’s trade policies. The letter reiterates the message Nelson shared with Lighthizer in person during a meeting between Nebraska agriculture leaders and Lighthizer, organized by U.S. Sen. Ben Sasse. 

“While we certainly hope that new levels of success can be achieved for all segments of our nation’s economy, we must work to ensure the significant gains achieved in agricultural trade are not sacrificed for the benefit of other industries,” wrote Nelson in the letter dated May 11.

In making the case for agriculture to continue as a focal point of U.S. trade policy, Nelson noted the importance agricultural trade has had on Nebraska, specifically related to the free trade agreements the United States has signed with numerous countries around the world.

“Nebraska ranks in the top five among the 50 U.S. states in terms of value of its agricultural exports. In 2015 alone, exports to countries with free trade agreements accounted for 53 percent of Nebraska’s exports. From 2005-2015, exports from Nebraska to free trade agreement markets grew 104 percent, with growth in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) far outpacing that with other free trade agreement countries,” wrote Nelson.

Trump’s decision to withdraw the U.S. from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement, as well as mixed messages about NAFTA and other previously passed free trade agreements have been a source of concern for Nebraska farmers and ranchers and other Nebraskans. Agriculture accounts for more than 40 percent of the state’s economic output and employs roughly one out of every four Nebraskans, all of which are impacted by Nebraska agriculture’s success in the global trade arena.

“Nebraska farm and ranch families rely on international trade for 30 percent of their overall income. It’s our hope that you will keep our industry at the forefront of your thoughts as you work on these important issues which will shape future trade policy. We look forward to working with you as the new U.S. Trade Representative,” wrote Nelson.



Cattlemen Stress Importance of Trade as Senate Confirms New U.S Trade Representative
 
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association today applauded the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Robert Lighthizer to be the U.S. Trade Representative. With a growing global marketplace, Craig Uden, NCBA president, said expanding international markets is a top priority for cattlemen.

“International trade is vital to the success of America’s cattle industry and in his new role, Ambassador Lighthizer will serve as our chief negotiator in all trade matters. As Ambassador Lighthizer begins his new job, we urge him to focus his efforts on opening and expanding our access to other markets and preventing any action that may hinder our export growth.”

NCBA particularly encourages Ambassador Lighthizer to prioritize trade with Asian markets by focusing efforts on restoring U.S. beef access to China and by establishing a bilateral trade agreement with Japan.

“As the 13-year ban of U.S. beef into China has been lifted, we encourage U.S. and Chinese government officials to establish a protocol for U.S. beef so that we can start exporting to the world’s most populous nation immediately. Furthermore, Japan is the top export market for U.S. beef, despite a 38.5 percent tariff. With TPP no longer an option to us, we urge Ambassador Lighthizer to prioritize a bi-lateral free trade agreement with Japan so that we can compete fairly with Australian beef producers.”

The North American Free Trade Agreement is another trade deal top of mind for the cattlemen, said Uden, having increased beef sales into Mexico by more than 750 percent.

“NAFTA has been one of the greatest success stories in the history of the American beef industry by removing tariffs on U.S. beef exports to Canada and Mexico and developing roughly $2 billion in annual sales. Any potential renegotiation of NAFTA must protect the market access and scientific standards that NAFTA has provided for the U.S. beef industry for over 20 years,” said Uden.

In Europe, the U.S. beef industry still faces decades-old trade barriers that unfairly discriminate against American producers for using science-based standards in beef production.

Uden said, “Now that Great Britain is leaving the European Union, we will have the opportunity to establish a new trade relationship with British allies. We hope to see the British emerge from behind the iron curtain of bad trade policies like precautionary principle, which plague the EU and discourage market-driven and science-based standards.”



USMEF Statement on Confirmation of Robert Lighthizer to Serve as U.S. Trade Representative

Today the U.S. Senate, on a vote of 82-14, confirmed Robert Lighthizer to head the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Philip Seng issued the following statement:

USMEF congratulates Ambassador Lighthizer on his confirmation to serve as U.S. trade representative. Red meat exports continue to face import barriers in dozens of markets around the world. One of the keys to ensuring continued growth of beef, pork and lamb exports will be dismantling these barriers so our industry is able to compete on a level playing field. USMEF looks forward to continuing its strong partnership with USTR under Ambassador Lighthizer's leadership, as we work together to open these markets.



ASA Welcomes Lighthizer to USTR

Following a vote by the Senate today to confirm Ambassador Robert Lighthizer as U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), American Soybean Association (ASA) President and Illinois farmer Ron Moore expressed congratulations and cited Lighthizer’s understanding of the important role trade plays in the U.S. economy and agriculture community.

“Lighthizer’s confirmation to USTR is an encouraging step in developing trade policies that continue to promote U.S. food and agriculture production,” Moore said.

ASA, along with many food and agriculture trade associations and companies, has continuously been supportive of Lighthizer’s confirmation, highlighting the need for more officials who understand the impacts and importance of trade.

“As we urge prudence on any trade negotiations or renegotiations, Lighthizer’s confirmation will allow the U.S. to engage on trade negations that will benefit all Americans though economic growth and job creation,” Moore added.



Statement by Joel G. Newman, President and CEO, American Feed Industry Association,
Regarding Senate Confirmation of Robert Lighthizer

"The American Feed Industry Association thanks the Senate for its confirmation of Robert Lighthizer, the new U.S. Trade Representative. USTR is a key player under U.S. law in the development and implementation of U.S. international trade policy and leading our country's trade negotiations.

"We welcome Ambassador Lighthizer and look forward to working with him to keep agricultural trade issues a top priority. During his confirmation process, Ambassador Lighthizer highlighted the importance of international trade in our industry and made note that U.S. farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses would be taken into greater account during the renegotiation of NAFTA.

"NAFTA, currently under the limelight, will be at the top of our list as the Trump administration moves forward with its plans to renegotiate the agreement's terms with Canada and Mexico. We look forward to working with the new ambassador on the renegotiation of NAFTA and other trade accords to come."



NAFTA Relationships Need Attention as NMPF, USDEC Begin Work with New U.S. Trade Representative Lighthizer

The dairy industry is eager to work with U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer to protect and expand market access for U.S. dairy while addressing problematic Canadian dairy policies, the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) said today following Lighthizer’s Senate confirmation.

Lighthizer will begin work on a variety of pressing trade policy issues, including the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), expanding market access channels in Asia, and preventing the loss of common food names.

“We welcome Mr. Lighthizer’ s confirmation because of his grasp of global trade rules and understanding of the importance of balanced trade agreements to the U.S. dairy sector,” said NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “We will continue to urge USTR to focus on protecting Mexico, our No. 1 market, insist that Canada revoke its detrimental new milk pricing policy, and pursue additional export opportunities around the world.”

Another significant challenge for Ambassador Lighthizer is the European Union’s aggressive stance on the use of geographic indications (GIs). Not only must the United States resist using GIs at home, Lighthizer has said, it should discourage other countries from agreeing to use them, as well.

“As the Trump Administration’s trade policy strategy develops, we want to build upon the U.S. government’s past successes in pushing back against the EU’s global GI agenda,” said Tom Vilsack, president and CEO of USDEC. “We also want to examine opportunities for bilateral trade agreements in key markets like Japan.” Vilsack recently visited Japan on a trade mission.

Lighthizer’s experience includes deputy trade representative under President Ronald Reagan, chief of staff for the Senate Finance Committee, as well as direct private sector experience in enforcing trade rules on behalf of his clients.



Wheat Grower Organizations Welcome USTR Confirmation

U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) and the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) welcome the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Robert Lighthizer today as the next U.S. Trade Representative. Fair access to international markets is crucial for America’s productive wheat farmers. Our organizations believe Ambassador Lighthizer fully understands that a strong agricultural economy depends on improving free trade opportunities and rules.

“We look forward to working with Amb. Lighthizer to help build new export opportunities for the farmers we represent,” said David Schemm, NAWG President and a wheat farmer from Sharon Springs, KS. “To that end, we also encourage him to quickly name a new U.S. Agricultural Trade Ambassador to represent agricultural interests in the upcoming re-negotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement and trade negotiations with Asia-Pacific nations.”

During his confirmation process, Amb. Lighthizer said “ensuring that our trading partners meet international trade obligations, especially those of the World Trade Organization, is a core foundation for fairer and freer trade.”

“We wholeheartedly agree,” said Jason Scott, USW Chairman and a wheat farmer from Easton, MD. “A good example is the U.S. dispute case against China’s excessive domestic wheat subsidies that violate its WTO membership agreement. The case recognizes that China’s policy restrains wheat trade and costs farmers in exporting countries billions of dollars every year. It is the kind of enforcement that we think must and will continue under Amb. Lighthizer.” 

With the full support of Amb. Lighthizer, his negotiating team and the new interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity led by Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue, USW and NAWG believe we can overcome trade distorting policies and other barriers to help American farmers compete fairly for the increasing global demand for high quality wheat and other agricultural products.




Trump, China Reach Preliminary Trade Agreements on Beef, Poultry

The Trump administration has reached new deals with China to ease market access for a variety of industries, including beef and financial services, as the White House makes progress on trying to soften economic barriers between the two sides.

The 10-part agreement, announced by Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross, comes as part of an ongoing negotiation between the two countries following a meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping last month.

“We have some very big news,” Ross told reporters Thursday. “U.S.-China relationships are now hitting a new high, especially in trade. We’re announcing, jointly with the Chinese, the initial results of the 100-day action plan of the U.S.-China Comprehensive Economic Dialogue.”

The new arrangements include an agreement from China to allow imports of U.S. beef, on certain conditions, by July 16. The United States has pressured China for years to allow beef imports, but the process has been constantly delayed.

“It’s at least a $2.5 billion market that’s being opened up for U.S. beef,” Ross said.

Similarly, Washington has agreed to advance a new rule that would allow China to export cooked poultry to the United States. The impact of this change on the U.S. poultry industry is uncertain, but Ross said it would not be severe.

And there were numerous other parts of the preliminary agreement. This included language that appears to pave the way for U.S. firms to export liquid natural gas to China, the expediting of Chinese safety reviews for U.S. biotechnology applications, and cooperation between Chinese and U.S. regulators over financial transactions.

Other parts of the arrangement would direct China to issue bond underwriting and settlement licenses to “two qualified U.S. financial institutions” by July 17, a date that is significant because it comes 100 days after Trump and Xi met in Florida. And the United States has agreed to allow Chinese entrepreneurs to a Washington summit in June.

Trump spent months on the campaign trail berating China for its trade practices, but he has softened his approach since winning office. He has initiated reviews of China’s support of its steel and aluminum industries and its impact on U.S. trade, but the outcome of those reviews is unclear. He has shown a willingness to back away from trade-related threats after consulting with aides and foreign leaders, and he has recently heaped praise on Xi and what he perceives as China’s willingness to negotiate.

“As you can appreciate, this addresses 10 items,” Ross said of the initial agreements. “There are probably 500 items that you could potentially discuss; maybe more than 500.” Ross said they would continue working and then “see if we can reach agreement” on other matters.



Cattlemen on Historic Reopening of China to U.S. Beef: "Impossible to Overstate How Beneficial This Will Be For America's Cattle Producers"

 National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Craig Uden today issued the following statement regarding the announcement from the White House that an agreement has been reached that will restore U.S. beef access to China:

“After being locked out of the world’s largest market for 13 years, we strongly welcome the announcement that an agreement has been made to restore U.S. beef exports to China. It’s impossible to overstate how beneficial this will be for America’s cattle producers, and the Trump Administration deserves a lot of credit for getting this achieved. We look forward to providing nearly 1.4 billion new customers in China with the same safe and delicious U.S. beef that we feed our families. I look forward to the day when we can serve President Trump and President Xi a dry-aged American-made New York strip in Beijing.”



USMEF Statement on U.S. Beef Regaining Access to China

The Trump administration has announced that following one more round of technical consultations between the United States and China, China is to allow imports of U.S. beef on conditions consistent with international food safety and animal health standards and consistent with the 1999 Agricultural Cooperation Agreement, beginning as soon as possible but no later than July 16, 2017. The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) issued the following statement:

USMEF welcomes today’s announcement that the United States and China have reached a high-level agreement that will allow U.S. beef to reenter the Chinese market after a prolonged absence of more than 13 years.

USMEF and its members greatly appreciate the efforts of the Trump administration and officials at USDA and USTR that made today’s announcement possible.



Fertilizer Prices Continue Fairly Stable

Retail fertilizer prices continued to hold fairly steady the first week of May 2017, according to retailers surveyed by DTN. While more fertilizer prices were lower this week compared to the previous week, the moves were fairly minor.
Anhydrous prices were slightly higher the first week of May 2017, compared to the previous month, with an average of $508 per ton. Anhydrous is currently 14% less expensive than a year ago. (DTN chart)

Of the eight major fertilizer, six were slightly lower in price compared to a month earlier. These were DAP, MAP, urea, 10-34-0, UAN28 and UAN32.

DAP had an average price of $436 per ton, MAP $466/ton, urea $351/ton, 10-34-0 $436/ton, UAN28 $247/ton and UAN32 $280/ton.

Retail fertilizer prices are lower compared to a year earlier. Half of the eight major fertilizers are still double-digits lower.

10-34-0 is 22% lower than a year ago, anhydrous is 14% less expensive, UAN32 is 13% lower and UAN28 is 10% less expensive. Urea is 9% lower, DAP is 8% less expensive and both potash and MAP are 7% lower compared to year earlier.



U.S. Tractor, Combine Sales Up in April

According to the Association of Equipment Manufacturer's monthly "Flash Report," the sale of all tractors in the U.S. in April 2017, were up 7% compared to the same month last year.

For the month, two-wheel drive smaller tractors (under 40 HP) were up 11% from last year, while 40 & under 100 HP were up 1%. Sales of 2-wheel drive 100+ HP were down 12%, while 4-wheel drive tractors were down 5%. Combine sales were up .3% for the month.

For the four months reported in 2017, a total of 67,682 tractors were sold which compares to 63,952 sold thru April 2016 representing a 6% increase for the year.

So far this year, two-wheel drive smaller tractors (under 40 HP) are up 13% over last year, while 40 & under 100 HP are down 3%. Sales of 2-wheel drive 100+ HP are down 12%, while 4-wheel drive tractors are down 11%.

Sales of combines for the year totaled 1,034 a decrease of 12% from 2016.