Monday September 27 Ag News

 NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending September 26, 2021, there were 6.7 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 9% very short, 40% short, 51% adequate, and 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 12% very short, 47% short, 41% adequate, and 0% surplus.

Field Crops Report:
Corn condition rated 4% very poor, 7% poor, 19% fair, 46% good, and 24% excellent. Corn dented was 97%, near 99% last year, and equal to the five-year average. Mature was 71%, behind 78% last year, but ahead of 66% average. Harvested was 13%, equal to last year, and near 10% average.

Soybean condition rated 3% very poor, 6% poor, 20% fair, 49% good, and 22% excellent. Soybeans dropping leaves was 87%, near 91% last year, but ahead of 81% average. Harvested was 17%, behind 26% last year, but near 15% average.

Winter wheat planted was 61%, near 57% last year and 62% average. Emerged was 20%, ahead of 13% last year, but near 22% average.

Sorghum condition rated 8% very poor, 16% poor, 29% fair, 34% good, and 13% excellent. Sorghum mature was 62%, behind 68% last year, but ahead of 55% average. Harvested was 11%, ahead of 6% last year, and near 9% average.

Dry edible beans dropping leaves was 89%, near 90% last year. Harvested was 63%, behind 73% last year.

Pasture and Range Report:
Pasture and range conditions rated 12% very poor, 15% poor, 56% fair, 15% good, and 2% excellent.



IOWA CROP PROGRESS & CONDITION REPORT

 Spotty precipitation did not slow activities down significantly as Iowa’s farmers had 6.1 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending September 26, 2021, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Field activities included spraying for army worms in forages as well as harvesting hay, soybeans and corn.

Topsoil moisture levels rated 12 percent very short, 34 percent short, 53 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture levels rated 17 percent very short, 39 percent short, 44 percent adequate and 0 percent surplus.

Row crop harvest has begun across the State.

Corn in or beyond the dent stage reached 97 percent, four days ahead of the 5-year average. Almost three-quarters of the corn crop has reached maturity, also four days ahead of normal. Corn harvest for grain reached 9 percent statewide, again, four days ahead of the 5-year average. Moisture content of field corn being harvested for grain was at 23 percent. Iowa’s corn condition rated 59 percent good to excellent.

Soybeans coloring or beyond reached 95 percent, five days ahead of the 5-year average. Soybeans dropping leaves reached 77 percent, four days ahead of normal. Soybeans harvested reached 18 percent, also four days ahead of the five-year average. Soybean condition was rated 62 percent good to excellent.

Pasture condition rated 30 precent good to excellent. Low water levels in some creeks and ponds have been an issue for livestock on pasture.



U.S. Corn, Soybean Harvest Pulls Ahead of Average Pace

After a few weeks of moving at a near-average pace, corn and soybean harvest progress pulled ahead of the five-year averages last week as farmers took advantage of mostly favorable conditions across parts of the country last week, USDA NASS said in its weekly national Crop Progress report Monday.

Corn harvest picked up steam last week, moving ahead 8 percentage points to reach 18% complete as of Sunday, Sept. 26. That is 4 percentage points ahead of 14% last year and 3 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 15%.  For the rest of corn still in fields, NASS estimated the crop continues to reach maturity ahead of normal, with 97% of corn dented, compared to the average of 94%, and 74% of corn mature, 10 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 64%.  Corn condition was unchanged last week at 59% good to excellent. That was below the crop's good-to-excellent rating of 61% a year ago.

Soybean harvest also accelerated last week, moving ahead 10 percentage points to reach 16% complete as of Sunday. That is 2 percentage points behind last year's 18% but 3 percentage points ahead of the average pace of 13%.  For the remainder of the crop, NASS estimated that 75% of soybeans were dropping leaves as of Sunday, 9 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 66%.  The condition of soybeans remaining in fields was also unchanged last week, holding steady at 58% good to excellent. That was down from 64% a year ago.

Winter wheat planting also continued slightly ahead of normal last week, with NASS estimating 34% of the crop had been planted as of Sunday, 2 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 32%. Winter wheat emerged was pegged at 9%, just 1 percentage point ahead of the five-year average of 8%.

Sorghum coloring was pegged at 96%, 2 percentage points ahead of the average. Sorghum mature was 65%, 9 percentage points ahead of average. Sorghum harvested was 31%, 1 percentage point behind average.

Cotton bolls opening was 60%, 4 percentage points behind the average. Cotton harvested was 11%, 3 percentage points behind the average. Cotton condition was rated 65% good to excellent, up 1 percentage point from the previous week.

Rice harvested was 61%, 5 percentage points behind the average pace.

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Webinar planned on cover crops, soil health and financial incentives

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability will host a webinar focused on cover crops and incentives for their use at noon on Oct. 7.

The use of cover crops on cropland in the U.S. increased by 50% between the 2012 and 2017 Census of Agriculture. The webinar will cover how farmers are using cover crops in the U.S., what types of federal and state incentives are available for their use and offer insights on soil health and farm financial outcomes associated with cover crops.

It will be presented by Maria Bowman, an economist and conservation liaison with the USDA Economic Research Service.

To register for the webinar, visit the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website at https://cap.unl.edu/webinars.



UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability Upcoming Webinars

September 30 - Noon-1 p.m. CDT     
Exploring The Growing Climate Solutions Act and Carbon Credits
with Dave Aiken, professor and agricultural law and water specialist, UNL Agricultural Economics

On June 24, the U.S. Senate adopted S. 1251, the Growing Climate Solutions Act of 2021. Co-sponsored by 54 senators, including Nebraska’s Sen. Deb Fischer, S. 1251 seeks to make it easier for farmers and ranchers to participate in voluntary carbon credit markets, and to get a fair share of the carbon credit revenue they generate. If adopted by the U.S. House of Representatives and signed by the president, S. 1251 would go a long way in facilitating effective producer participation in US carbon markets.

October 7 - Noon-1 p.m. CDT     
Cover Crops, Soil Health and Financial Incentives
with Maria Bowman, Economist and Conservation Liaison, USDA Economic Research Service

Curious about cover crops? The use of cover crops on cropland in the U.S. increased by 50% between the 2012 and 2017 Census of Agriculture. This webinar will cover how farmers are using cover crops, what types of federal and state incentives are available for their use, and offer insights on soil health and farm financial outcomes associated with cover crops.

October 12 - Noon-1 p.m. CDT     
Developing A Meat Processing Plant: Financial and Legal Issues
with: Elliott Dennis, Assistant Professor and Extension Livestock Economist, UNL Agricultural Economics; Charlie McPherson, Nebraska Business Development Center Director; and Dave Aiken, Professor and Extension Agricultural Law Specialist, UNL Agricultural Economics.

This webinar will cover how meat processing size has involved and discuss the financial concerns associated with starting a new meat processing plant. It will also address food safety issues that should be considered when deciding on either a custom exempt or federally inspected plant.

October 14 - Noon-1 p.m. CDT     
Grant Opportunities for New and Existing Meat Processing Plants: FAQ and Things to Know
with: Elliott Dennis, Assistant Professor and Extension Livestock Economist, UNL Agricultural Economics; Greg Ibach, Under Secretary in Residence, IANR; and Gary Sullivan, Associate Professor of Meat Science.

The webinar will cover how the market and political climate led to the allocation of grant dollars for meat processing plants and what the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is doing to increase meat processing training and skills. It will also outline specific grant opportunities available.

November 4 - Noon-1 p.m. CDT     
The Impact of Price and Management on Culling Decisions
with: Elliott Dennis, Assistant Professor and Extension Livestock Economist, UNL Agricultural Economics; Kacie McCarthy, Assistant Professor and Extension Beef Cow-calf Specialist, UNL Animal Science; and Karla Wilke, Associate Professor and Extension Range Management Cow-calf Specialist, UNL Animal Science.

The webinar will look at price trends in cull cows and the impact of exports and domestic meat consumption on those prices. It will discuss what decisions need to be made for early cull or post-pregnancy-check cull cows, and address the feed resource requirements.

For more information and to register for each of these webinars, go to www.cap.unl.edu.  



COLLABORATIVE BIOSECURITY LABORATORY OPENS TO PURSUE AG DEFENSE RESEARCH

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Sept. 27 to celebrate the official opening of the Collaborative Biosecurity Laboratory at the Morrison Life Sciences Research Center on Nebraska’s East Campus.

The laboratory is another tangible step in the growing partnership between IANR and NSRI that brings together researchers from both institutes to increase research and development in:
> Agricultural and natural resources security, defense and countermeasures;
> Biological defense in support of the U.S. Departments of Defense and Homeland Security, and other government stakeholders;
> Development and deployment of biosurveillance, biodetection and diagnostic tools; and
> Pandemic preparedness related to human, livestock and crop plant diseases that could result in disruptions to the U.S. and global food systems.

“This new effort is a perfect marriage of key strengths and priorities of the entire University of Nebraska system: national security, preparedness, and agriculture and natural resources,” said NU President Ted Carter. “The lab will be a pride point for our university and state. I’m thrilled that IANR and NSRI are collaborating in this way, and I’m excited to see the innovations that will result from this forward-thinking partnership.”

The new laboratory also aligns with Nebraska’s commitment to bold, innovative and important research, said Chancellor Ronnie Green.

“No university is better positioned to lead with a new collaborative biosecurity laboratory,” Green said. “We have a long history of seeking bold solutions to complex problems, and our expertise in agricultural and defense-related innovation is exceptional.”  

The location of the lab, adjacent to other molecular life scientists, biomedical engineers and the Nebraska Center for Virology, provides opportunities for NSRI researchers, staff and program leaders to engage with faculty, students and staff throughout IANR and the university.

“Ensuring the safety of our food supply is a wickedly complex endeavor,” said Mike Boehm, NU vice president and Harlan Vice Chancellor for IANR. “A broad, collaborative approach drawing on disciplines including virology, biological systems engineering, chemistry and biochemistry, statistics, animal science, veterinary medicine, plant pathology, natural resources, food science and many others will be key to the success of this exciting collaboration.”

In addition to the lab, NSRI appointed 10 IANR researchers as NSRI Fellows in May 2021. One fellow is already contributing to the Nebraska Drug Discovery and Development Pipeline, a long-term project funded by the federal government through NSRI to develop drugs needed by warfighters. NSRI, the Department of Defense-designated University Affiliated Research Center of the University of Nebraska, and U.S. Strategic Command also recently leveraged IANR’s West Central Research and Extension Center to test unmanned aerial systems for a DOD sponsor.

“We are actively seeking opportunities to collaborate in a meaningful way with IANR,” said retired Maj. Gen. Rick Evans, NSRI executive director. “This lab demonstrates the foresight NU and NSRI can bring to the DOD — combining Nebraska’s tremendous strength and leadership in agriculture and biosecurity with NSRI’s deep understanding of the complexities of strategic deterrence across the threat spectrum and in multiple domains.”

Joshua Santarpia, NSRI research director of chemical and biological programs and associate professor of microbiology and pathology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, leads the Collaborative Biosecurity Laboratory.

“This lab represents a host of new opportunities for both NSRI and IANR,” Santarpia said. “Through this lab, and the collaboration that it represents, we can look at ways to leverage NSRI’s research into agricultural problems, bring new opportunities for IANR scientists to grow the research to support national security and build new programs in agricultural biosecurity together.”



FALL THISTLE CONTROL
– Jerry Volesky, NE Extension Educator
 
Did you spray thistles this past spring and summer?  If so, it would be a good idea to revisit those areas as there are likely some remaining or new growth that has occurred.  October and early November is a key time to control thistles in pastures.  There are several biennial thistles, but musk, plumeless, Scotch, and bull thistles are our most problematic.  Biennials require portions of two growing seasons to flower/reproduce. They develop from seed the first season into a flat rosette. When trying to control biennial thistles, destruction of rosettes prior to flowering (bolting) is an effective means of preventing seed formation and subsequent spread.
 
Another thistle to look out for is Canada thistle.  Canada thistle is a creeping perennial that can be controlled with fall spraying, in conjunction with other management options in the spring.
 
While in the rosette stage, thistles are more effectively controlled using herbicides.  It is important to note that fall spraying of thistles is not a silver bullet and effective control often needs repeated applications.  It will take several years of timely control before the soil seed bank is reduced.  There are many herbicides labeled for thistle control. Note that some products traditionally recommended for spraying thistles have recently changed product names.  Take care when purchasing products and always read/follow label directions before use.   
 
GrazonNext® HL, Milestone®, Chaparral®, Graslan® L, Stinger®, Overdrive®, and Tordon 22K® are all products that are labelled for use on biennial thistles as well as Canada thistle. 2,4-D mixed with dicamba is also an effective option but should be sprayed when temperatures are warmer for the highest efficacy.  When using Tordon 22K® or Graslan® L, both products are restricted use and contain picloram.  Use extreme caution around other vegetation, especially trees, as both products will kill woody plants.



IDALS’s Cover Crop Insurance Discount Program Continues this Fall

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship will offer its cover crop insurance discount program again this year. The program gives farmers and landowners who plant fall cover crops, like rye and oats, the opportunity to apply for a $5 per acre discount on their spring crop insurance premiums. Sign up for the program will begin in December.

“Planting cover crops is a great way for farmers to build upon existing conservation efforts in their farming operations,” said Secretary Naig. “Every field is different so I encourage farmers and landowners to talk to their agronomist, conservation professional, or seed representative to determine which varieties of cover crops may work best for their growing conditions. I hope everyone will consider planting cover crops on at least one field this fall.”

Farmers and landowners can start enrolling in the cover crop insurance discount program in December. To qualify, the cover crop acres cannot be enrolled in other state or USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) cost share programs. More information about the cover crop insurance discount program is available at cleanwateriowa.org/cropinsurancediscount.

Cover crops help improve soil health, prevent soil erosion and lock in nutrients, especially during extreme weather events. Cover crops are proven to reduce nitrogen loads by 28-31 percent and phosphorous loads by 29 percent, which helps improve water quality. They also offer weed control and livestock grazing benefits for producers.

Program Details
This is the fifth year the crop insurance discount program is being administered by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and USDA Risk Management Agency (RMA). Interest in the program continues to grow and new farmers and fields join each year. To date, about 1,700 farmers have enrolled nearly 700,000 acres of cover crops in the program. Other states have also started offering similar programs modeled after the one in Iowa, including Illinois and Indiana.

Some insurance policies may be excluded, like Whole-Farm Revenue Protection, or those covered through written agreements. Participants must follow all existing farming practices required by their policy and work with their insurance agencies to maintain eligibility.

Farmers should visit their local USDA service center to learn about other cost share funding available to support the implementation of conservation practices.



Heavy Placements in Cattle on Feed Report
David P. Anderson, Extension Economist, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

The September COF report was released by USDA on September 27th. While the headline placements, marketings, and COF were within the range of pre-report estimates, placement weights were skewed to the heavy side with some implications for coming months.

Placements in the 900-999 pound category were up 19.6 percent, or 45,000 head, over August 2020. Most of that year-over-year increase, 30,000 head, came in Nebraska. The remainder were placed in Colorado and Kansas. Nebraska placed 350,000 head weighing over 800 pounds, second most over 800 pounds only to September 2020. Heavier placements would suggest more supplies for late in the year and early 2022. About 43 percent of placements weighed more than 800 pounds, continuing the general trend of heavier placements.

Total placements in Nebraska exactly offset placement declines in Texas and Kansas. The net increase in August placements compared to last year occurred in Colorado and Idaho, up 35,000 and 12,000 head, respectively. Placement increases might reflect some drought effects, but Washington and South Dakota placed fewer than a year ago.

Marketings was also an interesting number in the report at 99.6 percent of a year ago. There was one more slaughter day in August 2021 compared to 2020 meaning that daily average marketings was about 5 percent off last year’s pace. That corresponds to August’s daily average slaughter being about 5 percent lower than a year ago. While that pace might be thought of as relatively disappointing it is indicative of the continuing bottleneck in processing and the number of cattle ready shipping. It is likely we have turned the corner in cattle supplies, now being on the downward slope in numbers.

There were 11.234 million head on feed on September 1. While down 1.4 percent from last year, it is 6.5 percent more than the 5-year average.  



Five Tips to Keeping Livestock Vaccines Viable on Farm

Vaccines are crucial to keeping livestock healthy and productive. While vaccines do not provide absolute protection, the “added insurance” helps stimulate the animal’s immune system and increases its ability to fight off an infection or lessen the impact of disease if it should occur.

However, with timing, labor constraints and the necessity for boosters, South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension Veterinarian and State Public Health Veterinarian Russ Daly says there are several factors to consider before implementing a vaccination program.

“Herd history, vaccine type, method of administration and age of animal all come into play, so it is critical for producers to work with their local veterinarian in developing a vaccination program,” Daly says. “They have experience with and knowledge of the many different vaccines, as well as the disease issues in area herds.”

Most vaccines are either modified-live virus (MLV) or inactivated “killed.” MLV vaccines contain whole germs that have been altered such that, while they are able to multiply within the body, their ability to cause disease has been taken away. Inactivated vaccines contain bacteria or viruses that have been inactivated by heat or chemicals.

Whether the producer/veterinarian team chooses an inactivated or MLV vaccination program, Daly says it’s important that the vaccines don’t go past their prime.

“Proteins are the major components of the organisms that make up both killed and MLV vaccines, and they disintegrate according to two major factors: time and temperature. As time passes, the proteins that make up the vaccine organisms break up into smaller parts. Eventually, given enough time, there will no longer be enough intact organisms to effectively stimulate an immune response,” Daly says. “Also, storage temperatures higher than label recommendations will result in a quicker rate of disintegration and will reduce the effectiveness of any vaccine, whether inactivated or MLV. At the other extreme, freezing temperatures will also adversely affect vaccines.”

In addition to time and temperature, common disinfectants and ultraviolent light can reduce the viability of modified-live organisms. “Modified-live vaccines will only remain viable for an hour or two following their rehydration, even if they are kept cool,” Daly says.

Daly recommends the following tips for handling, storing and using vaccines:
 1.    Purchasing vaccines and equipment: Observe expiration dates prior to purchase. Purchase the appropriate type and sufficient number of needles for the job. Plan on replacing needles when they become bent, dull or dirty, and before drawing up vaccine into the syringe.
 2.    Transporting and storing vaccines: Keep boxes and bottles cool and out of sunlight while in transport. Use frozen ice packs in an insulated box in the summer and prevent vaccines from freezing in the winter. Prior to use, store vaccines in a properly working refrigerator.
 3.    Equipment and work area: Use clean syringes, but not those that have had internal parts cleaned with soap or chemical disinfectants, including alcohol. Set up an area for syringes such that they are shaded and kept cool and dust-free while working.
 4.    While working: Keep vaccine bottles in a closed cooler with ice packs (summer) or hot packs (winter) until they are needed. When using MLV vaccines, rehydrate the vials either one at a time as they are needed or as many as you will use within an hour. Always use a brand-new needle to draw vaccine into the syringe. Protect syringes from heat, light and freezing while working. When using needle-free injection systems, or syringes that draw doses from a tube attached to the vaccine bottle, care should be taken to assure the bottle and tubing stay cool and shaded from sunlight.
 5.    After the job is complete: Discard any unused MLV vaccine that has been reconstituted. Discard any partial bottles of inactivated vaccine that have been contaminated by dirty needles. Return unmixed MLV and unused inactivated vaccines to a properly working refrigerator as soon as possible. Clean syringes, transfer needles and tubing. Follow the manufacturer’s directions on proper cleaning and maintenance of needle-free injection systems.



AFBF, NPPC File Prop. 12 Appeal to Supreme Court

The National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation today petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to take their case against California’s Proposition 12, which would ban the sale of pork from hogs that don’t meet the state’s “arbitrary” production standards.

The appeal to the high court comes after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit in July upheld a lower court ruling against the NPPC-AFBF case. The appeals court found despite the organizations plausibly alleging that Prop. 12 “will have dramatic upstream effects and require pervasive changes to the pork industry nationwide,” 9th Circuit precedent won’t allow the case to continue. That precedent, however, runs counter to numerous Supreme Court decisions and is in conflict with nearly every other federal circuit court.

“We’re asking the Supreme Court to consider the constitutionality of one state imposing regulations that reach far outside its borders and stifle interstate and international commerce,” said NPPC President Jen Sorenson. “In this case, arbitrary animal housing standards that lack any scientific, technical or agricultural basis and that will only inflict harm on U.S. hog farmers.”

Generally, the Commerce Clause grants Congress the power to regulate trade among the states and restricts states from regulating commerce outside their borders, except for matters related to public health and safety.

“Supporters of Proposition 12 claimed it would improve animal welfare and food safety. The law fails to address either of those issues,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farmers know the best way to care for their animals. This law takes away the flexibility to ensure hogs are raised in a safe environment while driving up the cost of providing food for America’s families. Small family farms well beyond California’s borders will be hit hardest as they are forced to make expensive and unnecessary changes to their operations. This will lead to more consolidation in the pork industry and higher prices at the grocery store, meaning every family in America will ultimately pay the price for Prop. 12.”

The California Department of Food and Agriculture, which is still writing the implementing regulations for Prop. 12, admitted the initiative will have no effect on food safety and actually will increase the mortality rate for sows subject to it.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2022, Prop. 12 will prohibit the sale of pork from hogs whose mothers (sows) were raised – anywhere in the world – in pens that do not comply with California’s highly prescriptive housing standards. It applies to any uncooked pork sold in the state, whether produced there or outside its borders. Nearly all pork currently produced in the United States fails to meet California’s arbitrary standards.

To continue selling pork to the 40 million consumers who live in California, which represents about 15 percent of the U.S. pork market, pork producers would need to switch to alternative sow housing systems. Industry estimates for converting sow barns or building new ones to meet the Prop. 12 standards are in the billions of dollars, with consumers bearing the ultimate cost through higher pork prices.



Scoular purchases grain handling facility to improve service to northwestern Kansas farmers

Scoular has purchased a grain handling and processing facility near Goodland, Kansas, to deliver speed and space to area farmers.

The facility, located 5 miles west of Goodland in northwestern Kansas, is currently operating. It has a capacity of more than 5.5 million bushels and is capable of loading and unloading trucks, as well as railcars.

The facility complements the nearby Scoular grain handling facility in the town of Goodland. It also enhances Scoular’s network throughout western Kansas and its ability to bring valued, grower-produced products to animal feeding, ethanol producers, flour millers and export customers throughout its supply chain.

“Our new facility gives farmers in western Kansas an efficient place to offload grain, saving them time and money,” said Jeff Bhend, a Scoular manager who oversees both Scoular facilities. “We purchased this facility with our farmers in mind and are proud we can serve them even better, especially during the busy harvest time.”

The facility had been operating as a canola and sunflower crush plant. Under Scoular’s ownership, the facility is handling corn, wheat and milo. Scoular plans to upgrade the facility by increasing dumping speeds and improving truck traffic flow and to hire additional employees.

The facility is located at the Caruso exit off Interstate 70.



NCGA to EPA: Ethanol Needed to Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency should focus on opening pathways for all low-carbon fuels and technologies, such as ethanol, as it seeks to lower greenhouse gas emissions, the National Corn Growers Association explained to EPA in comments submitted today.

The agency’s written comments come as EPA hears from stakeholders on its proposed rule to set more stringent greenhouse gas emissions standards for vehicles for model year 2023 to 2026. Unfortunately, the role that higher blends of low-carbon ethanol can play in meeting new standards was conspicuously absent from EPA’s proposal.

“EPA missed an opportunity in this proposal to broaden the solutions that reduce transportation emissions by beginning a transition to low-carbon, high-octane fuels to advance climate, air quality and environmental justice goals with these and future standards,” NCGA President John Linder stated in the comments. “Furthermore, alternative fuel vehicles such as flex-fuel vehicles, which have the potential to reach zero emissions, should be equitably incentivized through vehicle standards rules.”

Higher octane fuel is an essential tool for automakers to meet revised standards, but higher octane must also be clean octane to meet emission reduction goals, Linder noted.

“For automakers to use new technologies and enhanced engines to meet stringent standards, they need updated fuel that enables new vehicles and fuels to work as a system to enhance GHG reductions,” he said. “Clean octane from today’s ethanol is 50% lower in GHG emissions than gasoline and replaces the most harmful hydrocarbon aromatics to improve air quality and prevent adverse health impacts.”

EPA is expected to finalize revised vehicle standards later this year or early next year.

NCGA has also pursued legislation in Congress that would couple a higher-octane fuel standard with low-carbon ethanol to lower greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, Rep. Cheri Bustos (I.L.) reintroduced the Next Generation Fuels Act (H.R. 5089) this summer. The bill would take advantage of higher ethanol blends to meet low-carbon, high-octane standards for fuels and vehicles.



Growth Energy Calls on EPA to Expand Biofuels Use to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Today, Growth Energy submitted comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calling on the agency to expand biofuels use in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Today’s comments were in response to a proposed rulemaking last month by EPA and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to decarbonize light-duty vehicles for model years 2023 through 2026. The association notes in its comments:

"We appreciate EPA’s work to reshape the nation’s transportation mix to make it more sustainable -- this is a central driver for our industry as well. Vehicles and fuels operate as a system and liquid fuels will continue to play a dominant role in the transportation sector for decades to come, even as alternative fuels flourish. As such, it is imperative to consider the vital role that environmentally sustainable fuel options such as ethanol will play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the current and future vehicle fleet. It is also imperative to consider full lifecycle emissions of all vehicle and fuel technologies to accurately evaluate the profiles and the benefits of vehicles using different fuels and energy sources.

"Ethanol is the most available and affordable means to immediately clean up our liquid fuel supply. Recent data from Environmental Health and Engineering show today’s corn ethanol reduces greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 46% compared to gasoline and can provide reductions of up to 70% with the use of readily available technologies. Ethanol’s other environmental benefits are also noteworthy. As has been researched, the use of more ethanol and ethanol-blended fuel reduces air toxics such as carbon monoxide, benzene, and other harmful particulates.”

Growth Energy’s comments follow testimony before EPA from Growth Energy’s Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley in response to the proposed rulemaking.

Previous Action
In 2012, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) developed more stringent fuel economy and greenhouse gas standards for vehicles. Growth Energy, recognizing the need for a high-octane, low-carbon solution for automakers to meet these more stringent standards, submitted an E30 fuel for vehicle certification as well as for consumer use, as the agencies went through the process of setting standards.

Again, in 2013, as EPA was putting together its proposal for Tier 3 fuel regulation, Growth Energy pushed to have midlevel ethanol blends be used for vehicle certification and were successful in getting the ability for automakers to use alternative fuels for certification in the final rule.

Finally, as the Obama Administration undertook their mid-term evaluation of the vehicle standards and, subsequently, when the Trump Administration moved to reconsider future vehicles standards, Growth Energy participated by echoing our call for high octane, low-carbon, midlevel ethanol blends as a necessary solution to meet the future vehicle standards.



U.S. Soy Equipped with Tools to Engage on Gene Editing

It’s an exciting time for soybean farmers, with advancements in gene editing to improve crops and help solve pressing challenges in farming and food production. In the midst of the tremendous potential, the ability to use gene editing hinges on public support. The collective voice of the soybean industry is pivotal to earning trust as the public asks more questions.

To help equip farmers to engage about gene editing, The Center for Food Integrity (CFI), with support from the United Soybean Board (USB), conducted a three-part virtual training in early August, “Trust in Gene Editing: Media and Engagement Training.”

A group of 20, including soybean farmer leaders, USB staff and members of Qualified State Soybean Boards, participated. The sessions were designed to highlight innovations in gene editing and bridge the gap with consumers to further trust in U.S. agriculture and crop breeding techniques.

“Being proactive and engaging early and often about the benefits of gene editing is essential to realizing its potential in soy and beyond,” said Mace Thornton, USB vice president of communications and marketing, and CFI board member. “It’s important that we have a diversity of spokespeople and voices in the conversation about new technologies like gene editing. Farmers, as well as researchers and scientists developing gene editing, are credible sources that are trusted by consumers.”   

As part of the training, participants were introduced to a new communication guide, Gene Editing & Soy: Engage in the Conversation. Funded by USB and created through the CFI Coalition for Responsible Gene Editing in Agriculture, the guide includes research on consumer attitudes about gene editing, CFI’s Trust Model, the importance of shared values, and five effective communication approaches:

    Explain gene editing in simple terms and focus on public benefits and values:
Consumers are most supportive of environmental benefits and disease resistance.

    Connect to gene editing solutions for human health:
Advancements in human medicine are the strongest entry into conversations about gene editing in food.

    Talk about evolution of genetic improvement, not revolution:
The public is more supportive when gene editing is described within a continuum of plant and animal genetic improvement, which has a legacy of safe, responsible use.

    Leverage expert spokespeople who are credentialed and relatable, show integrity and share values:
Scientists, academics and farmers rank high with consumers.

    Share analogies and visuals that explain science but are not oversimplified or condescending:
The most effective analogies refer to precise changes through gene editing within a larger framework, like changes to a word in a set of encyclopedias or changes to a feature on a blueprint.  

“Farmers are used to talking to farmers. Engaging with consumers on values is a different approach,” said Jeff Magyar, Ohio soybean farmer, USB director and a member of Ohio Soybean Council and Ohio Soybean Association. “The research shows that while consumers know very little about gene editing, they’re very open to learning more. As farmers, we have a great opportunity to share the story of gene-edited soy and the many benefits to people, animals and our planet.”

To learn about gene editing and ways to build support, view a soy-specific webinar at https://geneediting.foodintegrity.org/communication-resources/us-soy-earn-trust-in-gene-editing/ and download the communication guide at geneediting.foodintegrity.org. In addition, a new video and infographic on the benefits of gene-edited soy are available at www.BestFoodFacts.org.   



FARM AID 2021 OFFERS VISION FOR FUTURE OF FOOD

Farm Aid 2021 marked the organization’s return to a live festival Saturday, highlighting farmers who have withstood economic, operational and policy challenges and stand determined to create a better farm and food system — one that embraces diversity, sustains our natural resources and nourishes generations to come.

“So much has changed since we last gathered at Farm Aid in 2019,” said Farm Aid President and Founder Willie Nelson. “We’ve all seen the pain brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, but our family farmers endured, growing the food we needed and offering solutions that are so essential to our country.”

At a virtual town hall gathering Friday, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Tina Smith (D-MN), the Agriculture Commissioners of Connecticut, Massachusetts and New York, along with farmers, partners and other policymakers kicked off the festival weekend with a robust discussion about core issues, including corporate concentration and consolidation, racial equity, debt relief and climate change.

Nelson was joined Saturday on the Farm Aid stage by fellow board members John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews and Margo Price, along with Tyler Childers, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Bettye LaVette, Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, Jamey Johnson, Allison Russell, Particle Kid, Ian Mellencamp, the Wisdom Indian Dancers, and the Horse Hill Singers, who donated their time and talents for the nearly 10-hour show. On the video screens, festivalgoers were introduced to farmers from the Northeast and beyond who represent the diverse people and practices that make up a healthy, sustainable agricultural system. Featured farmers include immigrants who are finding innovative ways to access land and farm in community with each other; producers using regenerative practices to build soil and teach new generations to find joy in working the land; and entrepreneurs creating new paths to build local and regional food systems.

Throughout the day, artists and farmers joined together on the FarmYard stage to discuss challenges and opportunities in agriculture, including Black land loss, climate change and the solutions that family farmers bring to the table, and the day-to-day realities of being a farmer in an increasingly-consolidated farm and food system. Farm Aid reaffirmed its solidarity with BIPOC farmers who are advocating for fairness across the system and highlighted the innovative progress in agriculture in the Northeast, including local and regional food systems, organic production and regenerative agricultural methods that mitigate climate change and build soil.

Farm Aid’s HOMEGROWN Village featured hands-on activities to celebrate the culture of agriculture and give festivalgoers a chance to meet farmers in person and learn how they enrich our soil, protect our water, grow our economy and bring us good food for good health. Local and national organizations participated, and attendees learned about gleaning and re-localizing food systems in the United States to prevent avoidable food waste; discovered Connecticut local farms, markets and farm products; and tested their food and farm knowledge in a game, while learning about the dangers of corporate consolidation.

Farm Aid’s trademarked HOMEGROWN Concessions® offered food with ingredients produced by family farmers who utilize ecological practices and are paid a fair price for their products. Legends Hospitality, local community vendors and Farm Aid’s perennial food suppliers served menu items showcasing Connecticut and the region’s outstanding farms. Food choices included local fish and chips, crispy oyster tostadas, hot dogs and sausages from Meatworks of southern New England, roasted brussels sprouts, beet sandwiches, portobello burgers, grass-fed beef burgers, stuffed sweet potatoes with local smoked beef brisket, pretzels made with organic flour, grains, beans and greens bowls, plank fries and chicken tenders with homemade sauces, and much more. Vendors brought local flavors, including Soul de Cuba Café, Whey Station, Villa of Lebanon, DORO Restaurant Group, Maple Valley Creamery and Ben & Jerry’s. Farm Aid’s perennial vendors include Corndog, Inc., Patchwork Family Farms and Lone Cedar Café.

Sponsors of Farm Aid 2021 included DISH Network, ButcherBox, Porter-Cable, Tractor Supply Foundation, Spindrift, WhistlePig Whiskey, McManis Family Vineyards, Lundberg Family Farms and Maestro.

Farm Aid 2021 will air on FarmAid.org and Circle Network, as well on SiriusXM’s Willie’s Roadhouse (channel 59) and Dave Matthews Band Radio (channel 30) via SiriusXM radios and on the SXM App.

Farm Aid’s mission is to build a vibrant, family farm-centered system of agriculture in America. Farm Aid artists and board members Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews and Margo Price host an annual festival to raise funds to support Farm Aid’s work with family farmers and to inspire people to choose family farm food. For more than 35 years, Farm Aid, with the support of the artists who contribute their performances each year, has raised more than $60 million to support programs that help farmers thrive, expand the reach of the Good Food Movement, take action to change the dominant system of industrial agriculture and promote food from family farms.



Neogen Corp. Reports Higher Quarter Revenues, Earnings

Neogen Corporation announced the results of the first quarter of its 2022 fiscal year, which ended August 31. Revenues were $128 million, a 17% increase compared to the previous year's first quarter revenues of $109 million. The company's Food Safety and Animal Safety segments each recorded double-digit increases in organic sales in the first quarter, representing the third straight quarter of double-digit organic growth at both segments.

This quarter marked the 117th of the past 123 quarters that Neogen has reported revenue increases compared to the same period in the prior year.

"As the world continues to weather the COVID-19 pandemic, our strong results showcase Neogen's resilience and perseverance," said John Adent, Neogen's President and Chief Executive Officer. "I am pleased that we are reporting growth across almost all of our core product lines. Additionally, our Food Safety sales team has seen tremendous excitement surrounding our new Megazyme product offerings, which have now been integrated into our product portfolio. This positive start to our new fiscal year makes us optimistic for the remainder of the year."

Gross margins were 46.8% of sales in the first quarter of the fiscal year, compared to 46.0% recorded in the same period a year ago, due to sales of higher margin products within the Food Safety segment.

First quarter operating expenses increased by 22% over the prior year's first quarter; in last year's first fiscal quarter, the company took a number of cost reduction actions due to the economic uncertainty resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, totaling approximately $2.5 million.

As business conditions improved through the remainder of fiscal 2021, spending returned to pre-pandemic levels. Operating income for the quarter was $21,727,000, an increase of 15%, compared to $18,895,000 a year ago. Operating income continues to be impacted by higher costs in many areas, particularly freight, due to the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.