Tuesday September 19 Ag News

Farm Credit Services of America Announce New President and Chief Executive Officer

Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica) and Frontier Farm Credit today named Mark Jensen as incoming president and chief executive officer of the customer-owned financial cooperatives.  Jensen, the Associations’ chief risk officer, will assume his new role on November 1, 2017.  He succeeds Doug Stark, who is retiring.

Jensen joined FCSAmerica in 1992 and has held senior vice president positions with the Association for the past 16 years.  He was named senior vice president – chief risk officer in 2013.  Jensen was instrumental in modernizing FCSAmerica’s credit process and implementing an enterprise risk management framework, and today provides executive leadership of the Associations’ risk management, credit and appraisal teams.  He graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in agricultural economics.

FCSAmerica and Frontier Farm Credit are customer-owned financial cooperatives proud to finance the growth of rural America, including the special needs of young and beginning producers.  FCSAmerica provides credit and insurance services to farmers, ranchers, agribusiness and rural residents in Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming.  Frontier Farm Credit serves eastern Kansas.  Learn more at www.fcsamerica.com and www.frontierfarmcredit.com. 



Crop Residue Exchange Program  
Larry Howard, NE Extension Educator, Cuming County

The Crop Residue Exchange is an online engagement tool designed to assist farmer-cattlemen relationship development with the goal of encouraging mutually beneficial agreements to utilize crop residue for the purposes of grazing. A recent UNL survey showed that 17% of farmers, that do not have any cattle grazing corn residue on acres they farm, list lack of access to cattle as the major reason. This online exchange serves as a way for corn and other crop producers to better market their crop residue to cattle producers and develop mutually beneficial grazing agreements.

The Crop Residue Exchange is available online at http://cropresidueexchange.unl.edu. After establishing a login account, farmers can list cropland available for grazing by drawing out the plot of land available using an interactive map and entering in basic information about the type of residue, fencing situation, water availability, and dates available. Producers also provide their preferred contact information. Livestock producers can login and search the database for cropland available for grazing within radius of a given location of interest.

The primary objective of this exchange is to assist in the development of farmer-cattlemen relationships. In the near future the exchange also seeks to provide educational material and tools that support these relationships. Items under development include a lease agreement template to assist in the contract arrangement between the cattle owner and the farmer, links to tools and guidelines to help farmers and cattle owners correctly stock crop residue fields, and summary information on crop residue grazing rates. These will be available to all registered users of the exchange.



FALL PREPARATION TO SODSEED PASTURES AND HAY MEADOWS
Bruce Anderson, NE Extension Forage Specialist

               Pastures and hay meadows provide higher quality feed, are more productive, and cheaper to grow if they have good forage legumes growing in them.

               Yes – nitrogen fertilizer prices have come down.  But they still are so high it’s going to be difficult to justify fertilizing pastures next spring.  So instead, let’s grow our own N using legumes.

               Do you have a pasture area or hay meadow that is relatively free of weeds and makes up no more than about 15 percent of your total pasture acres?  If so, here is what I want you to do.  From now until that grass will grow no more this year, I want you to graze the living daylights out of that grass.  Grub it down, then graze it some more.

               Now why would I want you to do that?  Surely it will hurt the grass.  Well surprise, that's exactly what I want.  Because next spring, you will interseed legumes like red clover, white clover, and alfalfa into that grass to make it more nutritious and productive.

               The biggest challenge to establishing these legumes into a grass sod is competition by that existing grass on new, slow growing legume seedlings.  Anything you do to reduce competition and slow down grass growth will help.  Overgrazing this fall prior to next spring’s sodseeding will weaken the grass and slow its spring growth, thus giving new legume seedlings a better chance to get started.

               And while you’re at it, also collect some soil samples.  Then analyze them and apply any needed fertilizer.  Legumes especially need good phosphorus and soil pH.

               So, plan to add some legumes to your pasture next spring.  Graze your grass this fall until virtually nothing is left.  Then, keep grazing a couple weeks more just to make sure.

               Legumes you add next spring will establish better because of it.



Sasse Talks Security and Trade with South Korean Trade Minister

Today, after President Trump forcefully condemned North Korea at the United Nations in New York City, U.S. Senator Ben Sasse met with South Korean Trade Minister Hyun-Chong Kim.

“The United States must confront North Korea’s dictatorship – through diplomatic measures if possible or through military action if necessary. Trade Minister Kim and I agree that trade plays a critical role in that diplomatic response in two ways. First, we want to strengthen our alliance through trade that benefits Nebraskans and South Koreans. Second, sanctions can put pressure on North Korea’s despot and force China to step up and prevent a nuclear arms race in its backyard.”

Earlier this month, Senator Sasse strongly condemned any U.S. exit from our trade deal with our ally South Korea.

Since May, Senator Sasse, the Chairman of the Senate Banking Subcommittee on National Security and International Trade and Finance, has worked to highlight the utility of secondary sanctions against China to force additional pressure on North Korea.



CLAAS BREAKS NEBRASKA TRACTOR TEST LAB PERFORMANCE RECORDS WITH XERION 4500 AND 5000 SERIES

The Nebraska Tractor Test Lab recently completed its evaluation of the XERION 5000 and XERION 4500 four-wheel-drive tractors by CLAAS of America and the final results are in. Between the two machines, several records were broken for efficiency, cab noise, pull-to-weight ratio and more.

PTO and Engine Testing
The XERION 4500 now holds the record as the most fuel-efficient tractor in the 4WD, 450-500 hp class. The XERION 4500 set records for power take-off (PTO) hp (hr)/gallon in rated engine speed (18.33), rated PTO speed (19.13) and maximum engine power (19.52). Both the XERION 4500 and XERION 5000 outclassed similarly rated models in each of these three categories.

Of course, it’s not all about horsepower, it’s about what that power can do for the operator. The XERION 4500 and 5000 went head-to-head against the top competitors in engine lugging capacity, and both came out on top, setting a record for low engine speed while providing maximum torque thanks in large part to the XERION tractor’s ECCOM CVT transmission.

The XERION 4500 also set a new record in the ballasted portion of the test. By correctly weighting the XERION 4500, the pull-to-weight ratio set a new 25-year record in 4WD tractors.

3-Point Lifting
The XERION 5000 did very well in the 3-point hitch test, achieving a maximum force of 21,738 pounds in the continuous lift test.

Sound Level Testing
The noise level recorded in the cab of the XERION 4500 was a record-breaking 68.5 decibels. The record was short lived, however, as the XERION 5000 tested out an even more quiet 67.0 decibels. Both tractors were quieter than a Cadillac Escalade traveling at 65 miles per hour.

Tire vs. Tracks
There’s a common belief that tracks provide more pulling power than a tire. Results of the XERION 4500 test prove otherwise. In fact, there is actually a loss in power when a tractor with tracks pulls a load. The XERION 4500 tested with a higher maximum pull, pull difference and pull-to-weight ratio than a comparable tractor with tracks.



Governor Ricketts to Host First Annual Nebraska Steak Fry

Today the Ricketts for Governor campaign announced Governor Pete Ricketts will be hosting the First Annual Nebraska Steak Fry early next month. Nebraskans are invited to join us as we enjoy a steak fry, music, family games and a program with elected officials from Nebraska and across the Midwest to celebrate Nebraska's number one industry, agriculture. The Steak Fry will be held on October 8th from 12:00-3:00 p.m at Rod & Deb Gangwish's Farm - 57252 145th Road, Shelton, NE.

Special guests include Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin, Missouri Governor Eric Greitens, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds and Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker. Tickets can be purchased online at www.petericketts.com by clicking the Steak Fry link. Single tickets are available for $20 and family tickets can be purchased for $35. An early bird discount of 50% off is available by using the code "HUSKER" during checkout. A limited amount of VIP tickets are also available.



60-Day Harvest Weight Limit Exemptions Granted

To help haul in this year's harvest, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed into effect Monday a proclamation granting a temporary 60-day weight limit exemption for trucks on Iowa roads. The 2017 Harvest Weight Proclamation specifically increases the weight allowable for shipment of corn, soybeans, hay, straw and stover, by 12.5 percent per axle (up to a maximum of 90,000 pounds) without the need for an oversize/overweight permit.

The 2017 proclamation again applies to loads transported on all highways within Iowa, excluding the federal interstate system. Trucks cannot exceed the truck's regular maximum by more than 12.5 percent per axle and must obey the posted limits on all roads and bridges.

"I am pleased to sign this proclamation allowing Iowa farmers to move their crops in an effective and efficient manner," Gov. Reynolds said. "Farmers are a critical component of our state's economy, and this proclamation ensures they're able to transport their crops ahead of deteriorating weather conditions."

"We sincerely thank Governor Reynolds for this proclamation," said Iowa Corn Growers Association President Mark Recker, a farmer from Arlington. "With the extremely dry conditions across Iowa, it is important that farmers can get their crops out of the field and to market efficiently. We appreciate Governor Reynolds' efforts knowing that the harvest weight proclamation is not a right by law, but a petition we as corn farmers make to the Governor who at her sole discretion may choose to grant the increased harvest weight tolerance."

ICGA made the request to Governor Reynolds in August and worked with the Governor's office to ensure the Proclamation moved forward to benefit Iowa's farmers. The proclamation directs the Iowa Department of Transportation to monitor the operation of the proclamation, assure the public's safety by facilitating the movement of the trucks involved. Farmers who are transporting grain are also required to follow their vehicle safety standards on axle weights.

The exemption is granted for 60 days beginning, Monday.

The Iowa Department of Transportation is directed to monitor the operation of this proclamation to ensure the public's safety and facilitate the movement of the trucks involved in our state's harvest.



August Milk Production in the United States up 2.0 Percent

Milk production in the United States during August totaled 18.1 billion pounds, up 2.0 percent from August 2016.  Production per cow in the United States averaged 1,919 pounds for August, 24 pounds above August 2016.  The number of milk cows on farms in the United States was 9.41 million head,
71,000 head more than August 2016, but unchanged from July 2017.

Iowa:  Milk production in Iowa during August 2017 totaled 434 million pounds, up 3 percent from the previous August according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Milk Production report. The average number of milk cows during August, at 217,000 head, was the same as last month and 3,000 more than last year. Monthly production per cow averaged 2,000 pounds, up 30 pounds from last August.



Perdue Statement on Censky & McKinney Senate Committee Hearing

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today gave high marks to Steve Censky and Ted McKinney for their joint appearance before the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.  President Donald Trump has nominated Censky to service as Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, while McKinney is the president’s choice to be the very first Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs.  The two await approval of the entire U.S. Senate before beginning work at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Secretary Perdue issued the following statement:

“Today we saw two nominees who are experienced, prepared, and capable of providing the steady leadership we need at USDA, and we can’t wait to get them on board.  We have accomplished a great deal in a short amount of time in our department, but we need Steve Censky and Ted McKinney to join the team as we face serious challenges in agriculture in the coming months and years.

“With producers in many states just beginning to assess the damages and losses from back-to-back hurricanes – and with wildfires continuing to rage in large swaths of the country – we will need Steve Censky’s counsel to help navigate the landscape.  And as Congress continues work on the 2018 Farm Bill, his guidance and input will be invaluable.  Likewise, as we continue USDA’s mission of feeding an ever-growing world population, we will need Ted McKinney to be the unapologetic advocate of American agriculture as we expand U.S. access to international markets.  He will be the one who wakes up every morning asking where he can sell more American products to foreign consumers.  I trust that the Senate will confirm them both in a speedy fashion.”



Checkoff to Relaunch 'Beef, It's What's for Dinner' Campaign

The Beef Checkoff will relaunch their famous "Beef, it's what's for dinner" campaign next month. The iconic beef brand known across the U.S. turns 25 this October.

Alisa Harrison is Senior Vice President of Global Marketing at the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, a contract partner of the beef checkoff program.

"The last couple of years it's been in the background in our consumer marketing. We went out and talked with consumers, especially to millennials to see what kind of equity we had in Beef it's what's for dinner and it is still really strong 25 years later," Harrison said. "It's the voice and it's also the rodeo music. When those young millennial parents hear it, it is a latent memory for them. They smile, get's them excited about beef, and reminds them of growing up."

She adds the checkoff's challenge is how to make beef relevant today. By doing that, it is not just about pushing the product but explaining how beef is raised.

The Beef Checkoff launched the original campaign in 1992. The upcoming relaunch is part of a bigger campaign to educate consumers about beef along unveiling a new logo and website.



NFU Reinforces Need for Trade Agenda Reforms Through NAFTA

Ahead of a third round of renegotiation talks on the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), National Farmers Union (NFU) reinforced it’s call for a fair trade agreement framework that benefits American family farmers, ranchers and consumers, and restores American sovereignty on farm and food policy.

In a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, NFU endorsed a series of trade reform recommendations proposed by the Coalition for a Prosperous America (CPA), of which NFU is a member.

“NAFTA has had significant impacts on family farms and rural communities,” wrote NFU President Roger Johnson. “The U.S. has a trade deficit with Mexico and Canada, despite the fact that agricultural trade has usually been a bright spot in America’s ever-growing trade deficit. Agricultural markets and farms have consolidated since NAFTA was agreed to. We urge you to heed the advice of those advocating for the benefits for all consumers and family farmers, rather than corporate profits.”

Johnson highlighted CPA’s proposed changes to NAFTA, including:
·         Reducing bilateral trade imbalances
·         Remedies for currency manipulation and misalignment
·         Strengthening rules of origin
·         Reinstating country-of-origin labeling (COOL)
·         Eliminating investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS)
·         Automaticity of enforcement of the agreement
·         Eliminating provisions on domestic procurement
·         Improve wages and labor standards
·         Compliance with food, product, and highway safety standards
·         Sunset NAFTA in 10 years
·         Remedies for perishable and cyclical products
·         Addressing border adjustable taxes

Johnson added that USTR should address non-tariff barriers that act as hidden tariffs, particularly as it relates to Canada’s restrictions on the sale of U.S. wine.

“As you renegotiate NAFTA, we urge you to act in the best interest of American farmers, ranchers and consumers, and to restore the United States’ sovereignty over farm and food policy. I look forward to working with your administration to reset the nation’s failed trade agenda,” he concluded.



NCGA Urges Farmers to Harvest Safely This Fall

The National Corn Growers Association reminds farmers of the importance of proper grain bin safety procedures this harvest. With farmers across the country preparing to hit the fields in their combines, NCGA offers both a list of safety reminders and a video on the important topic of grain bin safety.

1.  Road Safety
Reduce vehicle width as much as possible and ensure adequate warning lighting.  Use "Slow Moving Vehicle" signs on all slow-moving equipment.

2.   Equipment Safety
Be incredibly careful when approaching harvesting equipment.  Approach from the front and gain eye contact with the operator before approaching.  Ensure the harvesting equipment is fully stopped and disengaged before climbing onto a vehicle.  Do not place yourself near any unguarded or otherwise running machinery.  Avoid pinch points between equipment - such as tractors with grain wagons. Visibility can be limited and serious injury can occur.  Watch for trucks backing up or pulling away.  Steer clear and maintain eye contact with the driver if you approach a truck or tractor.

3.  Entanglement Hazard
Entanglement hazards can happen very quickly.  Do not ever try to unplug any equipment without disengaging power and removing energy from the equipment.  Never pull or try to remove plugged plants from an operating machine. Always keep shields in place to avoid snags and entanglement when working around equipment.

4.  Fall Hazard
Be careful climbing on and off equipment.  Be alert and extremely careful when working in wet or slippery conditions.  Keep all walkways and platforms open and free of tools, dust, debris or other obstacles.  Clean all walkways and platforms before use.  Wear clothing that is well fitting and not baggy or loose.  Also wear proper non-slip, closed toe shoes.  Use grab bars when mounting or dismounting machinery. Face machinery when dismounting and never jump from equipment.  Never dismount from a moving vehicle.

5.  Fire Prevention
Carry a fire extinguisher with you in your vehicle (A-B-C, 5 or 10 pound).  Remove dust and buildup from equipment.  Check bearings regularly to prevent overheating and chance of fire.

6.  Grain Wagon Safety
Be careful to monitor grain wagon weight to never exceed maximum weight limits.  As weight increases, grain wagons can be more difficult to control.  Load grain wagons evenly to distribute weight to prevent weaving or instability across the grain wagon.  Inspect grain wagon tires and replace any worn or cracked tires.

In addition to these tips, NCGA is again offering a video highlighting the importance of proper safety procedures and reviewing helpful guidelines.  First released in 2011, this video remains relevant and illustrates the significant threat bin entrapment can pose.  The video is available at NCGA.com and on NCGA's YouTube channel.



Set Sail for World Dairy Expo

With just two weeks to go before ‘Discovering New Dairy Worlds’ at World Dairy Expo 2017, now is the time for attendees to finalize plans. WDE offers many tools to help dairy enthusiasts make the most of their time at the must-attend event of the global dairy industry.

Expo’s award-winning Trade Show – featuring more than 850 companies – is best navigated with a plan. Interactive maps, available at worlddairyexpo.com, allow attendees to explore the show before and during their visit. Complete with search features for specific companies, products and categories, the interactive maps allow each attendee to create a personalized “Must See” list before the show to download or print, ensuring no stop is forgotten. A list of new products and services highlighted in the Trade Show are also included in Innovation Unveiled, available on the WDE website.

Attendees can steer through the Trade Show without fear of missing the Dairy Cattle Show. Multiple large screens located around the grounds are tuned to ExpoTV, displaying the Showring, along with extra coverage on Expo360, ExpoTV’s newest channel. This addition will provide a complete 360-degree look at World Dairy Expo, with Trade Show coverage, twice-daily newscasts, Virtual Farm Tours, Expo Seminars and more.

To enhance the attendee experience, two new information booths have been added in 2017 – located in the lobby of New Holland Pavilion 1 and on Fairgrounds Drive – in addition to the existing information booths in the west lobby of the Coliseum and the Exhibition Hall lobby. These booths will be staffed with Expo experts and provide daily schedules, the Official Program, published by Dairy Herd Management, the Expo Daily Edition, published by Dairy Star, and more. Attendees are encouraged to visit the booths for details on how to register for Expo’s exclusive giveaway of a Reveal Forage Analysis and one year of service from Cargill Animal Nutrition.

Map a route and set sail to ‘Discover New Dairy Worlds’ at the 51st World Dairy Expo. Visit worlddairyexpo.com for all planning needs before and throughout WDE.