Wednesday September 29 Ag News

 Governor Signs Proclamation for Cooperative Month

A proclamation recognizing October as Cooperative Month was signed by Governor Pete Ricketts on September 25, 2021.

Cooperative Month has been celebrated nationwide and in Nebraska for many years to call attention to the economic benefits which come from cooperative businesses.

The proclamation signed by the Governor recognizes Nebraska’s farmer owned cooperatives and rural electric and telephone cooperatives and the important role that cooperatives play in the lives of many Nebraskans.

In 2021rural agricultural cooperatives served the needs of approximately 64,000 farmer and rancher owners. With a combined payroll of over $370 million, these cooperatives directly employed 5,300 Nebraskans and maintained locations in 401 rural communities across the state.

Last year, Nebraska’s agricultural cooperatives made cash patronage and cash equity redemption payments to their members in the amount of $50.7 million and at the same time reinvested another $157 million in property, plant and equipment to serve their members’ needs. All of this economic activity arouse from total statewide revenues of approximately $6.3 billion.

Economic benefits of cooperatives do not end with their members. Rural communities were supported by $18 million of property tax paid by agricultural cooperatives. In addition, Nebraska’s farmer owned cooperatives, governed by their farmer owners, contributed $1.8 million to local fire departments, local school and youth organizations, local and statewide FFA and 4-H chapters and provided numerous scholarships to help rural Nebraska students continue their educations.

Rocky Weber, President & General Counsel of the Nebraska Cooperative Council, the state’s only trade association devoted exclusively to advancing, protecting and promoting the cooperative business model, stated: “Every October, Nebraskans have the opportunity to learn about the important role Nebraska’s cooperative system plays in the economic well being of rural Nebraska. Nebraska’s farmer owned cooperatives, in addition to providing direct economic benefits to their farmer members, offer excellent employment opportunities throughout rural Nebraska. Farmers supporting the communities in which they live by doing business through their respective cooperatives demonstrates the values and principles that make cooperatives a unique business structure. Governor Ricketts’ proclamation of October 2021 as Cooperative Month in Nebraska is a welcome acknowledgment of how important Nebraska’s cooperative system is to the economic fabric of all Nebraska.”



NeCGA Welcomes New Director of Grower Services

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) has hired a new director of grower services. Katherine Byrne brings talent and experience from her time as public relations director at Ag Valley Co-op and internships with the Nebraska Pork Producers Association and Nebraska Agribusiness Association. Katherine also sits on the board of the Nebraska FFA Foundation as their secretary.

“We are excited to have Katherine on our staff,” said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of NeCGA. “As a strong advocate for the agriculture industry, she will serve our producers well and will work to boost our membership.”

Katherine received a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Communication from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln in 2018. Her education included event planning, digital marketing, and crisis communication. As the director of grower services, Katherine will work closely with local associations to increase membership, coordinate programs and NeCGA communication, and develop relationships with allied industry partners.

Katherine can be reached by calling the association office at 402.438.6459 or kbyrne@necga.org



SOYBEAN RESIDUE FOR FORAGE
– Brad Schick, NE Extension Educator

Many soybean fields have already been harvested. Cows are often put on soybean residue in order to get them off pasture when other forage options are unavailable. Soybean residue or stubble may also be baled and used in rations. But what is the quality of grazed or baled soybean residue?

Soybeans themselves are very high in protein and fat. They are about 40% Crude Protein and about 20% fat which is why soybean residue can be perceived as great feed. However, the residue itself has a much different feed composition. The empty pods and stems contain only 4 to 6% CP and the TDN is only 35 to 45%. The leaves are slightly higher in protein at 12%, but the protein is only 30% digestible and leaves break down quickly after plants reach maturity and harvest has taken place.

These feed values will not begin to support the nutritional requirements of a dry cow even if there is some grain left in the field. Soybean residue can be grazed and would work to remove cattle from pasture as long as supplemental feed is provided.

Baled residue can be worked into a ration once the quality of the soybean residue bales is determined. Bales can be used as a roughage source in rations if other sources are less available. Just like grazing, baled soybean residue does not even come close to providing the feed value of corn stalk bales.

Soybean residue may not be the quality we often think. Residue alone will not meet even a dry cow’s nutrient requirements, so supplementation will be need if you decide to utilize your soybean residue



Master Planning Committee seeks public input on future use of Fonner Park

The Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation Master Planning Committee will be hosting a public listening session on Monday, October 4th from 5-7pm to further detail the process for long-range planning for the Fonner Park Campus and to gather the publics input, ideas and suggestions for the future of the campus as well as their ideas for the best use and future growth of the campus and the Nebraska State Fair.

“The extensive Master Planning Process for this campus began in early August with all of the stakeholders who utilize Fonner Park throughout the year,” said Lindsey Koepke, executive director of the 1868 Foundation. “Populous and the team they assembled have worked tirelessly to gather feedback from these stakeholders but we feel it is equally important to hear feedback for guests and visitors of the campus and the Nebraska State Fair.”

The 1868 Foundation who is serving as sponsor acting on behalf of entities that utilize and support the Fonner Park Campus including Fonner Park, Nebraska State Fair, Heartland Events Center, Grand Island Livestock Complex Authority (GILCA), Grand Island Area Chamber of Commerce, Grand Island & Hall County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Hall County Agricultural Society, Grow Grand Island, Hall County, the City of Grand Island.

The global planning firm Populous was selected to conduct the Master Plan along with CMBA Architects, Olsson Engineering and Chief Construction – all local with a long history of working in the Grand Island community and a clear understanding of the Fonner Park Campus as well as the facilities which were built to house the Nebraska State Fair.  Populous has experience in working with both horse tracks and state fairs.  CSL is also part of the team, specializing in financial and economic strategic planning.

“We want to hear your perspectives on Fonner Park, how it is important to the community, and how it can be better to accommodate the modern culture and needs of the community. Together we want to cast a common vision for the future of the Park,” said Populous’ Charlie Kolarik, Principal-in-Charge for the project.

“We know that the best way to drive positive change is to learn from our customers and to hear what they have to say, said Terry Galloway, chairman of the 1868 Foundation Board. “Understanding what our users want and need will drive positive change for this campus and serve as the catalyst to an enhanced and more user friendly destination.”

“All interested people are genuinely encouraged to attend this session and offer constructive criticism, ideas, suggestions and dreams for the Fonner Park physical plant to better host the Nebraska State Fair, Fonner Park Race Meet and the diverse multiple events that are or could be hosted hereon,” said Bill Ogg, executive director of the Nebraska State Fair.

The Public Listening Session will take place on Monday, October 4th from 5-7pm in the Raising Nebraska Exhibit in the Nebraska Building at Fonner Park. This event is open to the public. Those not able to attend the Public Listening Session can fill out the online survey at https://bit.ly/nsfmasterplan.

The mission of the Nebraska State Fair 1868 Foundation is to raise funds and resources for the overall improvement of your Nebraska State Fair. We are a proud charitable 501(c)3 organization. To give a gift to support the 1868 Foundation in this effort, please visit 1868foundation.org.



Rural businesses still find assistance

A familiar program with a revised name is still offering important assistance to rural Nebraska businesses and extending services to homeowners.

The Rural Enterprise Assistance Project (REAP) was established in 1990 as a program of the Center for Rural Affairs, providing loans, training, and business planning assistance to businesses with up to 10 employees.

REAP, familiar across Nebraska for assisting small businesses, is now simply referred to as the Center for Rural Affairs. The organization remains based in Lyons, Nebraska.

“We are not making any changes to our mission, staff, or operations,” said Kim Preston, director of Lending Services at the Center. “We are here for whatever small businesses in Nebraska need, whether that’s funding, help to navigate the pandemic, assistance in marketing, or otherwise.”

In its history, the Center has extended more than $23 million to assist Nebraska small businesses. That number has been on the rise in recent years thanks to the establishment of a nonprofit subsidiary of the Center. The U.S. Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) can make larger loans to small businesses, ultimately having a greater impact on the businesses and communities in rural Nebraska.

“In the beginning, we were lending only small amounts to businesses,” Preston said. “Now, we have the ability to lend from $1,000 to $250,000. We also expanded our business development services to meet demand.”

In addition to small business loans, earlier in 2021, the Center began offering homeownership and home improvement loans in rural Nebraska. The loans between $5,000 and $100,000 can be used to assist in the purchase of a home, owner-occupied rehabilitation or renovation, or emergency repair to a property.

“This name change is to streamline our brand identities,” Preston said. “Now all services are under the Center for Rural Affairs name.”

To learn more about the impact the Center for Rural Affairs is making, visit cfra.org. To inquire about services, visit cfra.org/loans or call 402.687.2100.



Scoular adds Megan Belcher to Board of Directors

Megan Belcher, a C-suite executive and board leader with deep experience in risk management, compliance, corporate governance, human resources and inclusion matters, has been appointed to Scoular’s Board of Directors.

Belcher joined Scoular in 2017 and serves as Scoular’s Chief Legal & External Affairs Officer. She was appointed this week to the company’s nine-member Board of Directors.

“Megan is a proactive, results-driven leader,” said Scoular Chairman of the Board David Faith. “She has led our company and board in numerous capacities, consistently operating with high integrity, driving results and creating a culture that will enable Scoular’s growth and prosperity.”

Belcher has more than 20 years of experience working for private and public companies in the agricultural, commodities, food ingredients and consumer food industries. She worked in private practice representing large public and private companies in an Am Law 100 firm before beginning her in-house legal career in 2007. At Scoular, Belcher oversees the legal, brand marketing and corporate communications, and sustainability and ESG functions. She also leads the governance and management work for the Board of Directors as its Corporate Secretary and is a National Association of Corporate Directors Governance Fellow.

Belcher has received national recognition for her executive, ESG, and diversity and inclusion leadership, as well as her legal and compliance-focused, law department management and industry skills. She founded Scoular’s first employee resource group, Scoular Women Influencing Culture and is a Scoular Foundation Trustee. Earlier this year the Women’s Center for Advancement honored Belcher for her achievements and dedication to bettering the lives of those in the Omaha community, which followed other national and local recognition for Belcher given her investment in many areas.

Belcher graduated from the University of Missouri and Boston College Law School. She resides in Omaha with her two young daughters.



Des Moines Chefs Win Winefest's Pork + Pinot Competition
    
Pork and wine pairings took center stage at a culinary competition and social soiree in downtown Des Moines in late September.

Pork + Pinot, a Des Moines Winefest event presented by the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA), gave Iowans the opportunity to taste pork dishes specifically paired with wine. The event especially attracts younger professionals.

Chefs Brett Sue and Caleb Crossett, of Cheese Bar in Des Moines, took home the first-place honors at the event, which invited local chefs to create “a pork-focused recipe that best reflects Iowa,” using their choice of pork belly, shoulder, or loin.

The duo’s winning entrée—Hoisin Confit Pork Belly Cones—featured Hereford pork belly from Crooked Gap Farm in Knoxville; plum hoisin; kimchi pickled salad; puffed rice; and cilantro. Ingredients were layered inside a cone-shaped paper cup, which was a “fun plating,” one judge noted. Another judge commented that the “pork is perfect.”

Sue and Crossett received $500 for their top dish in a field of seven chefs/chef teams. They also were given an IPPA gift package.

The judges selected Chef Cole Gruis of Aposto in Des Moines for second place. Gruis prepared Garlic and Pork Shoulder Agnolotti: homemade stuffed pasta, smoked ausilio pepper pesto, and aged Parmesan foam. He received $200 and a gift package from IPPA.

The People’s Choice award, selected by Pork + Pinot attendees, went to Dominic Iannarelli of Splash Seafood Bar & Grill in Des Moines. He served The Big Hickory: smoked pork loin with bread-and-butter green tomatoes from Rinehart’s Family Farm in Boone; Prairie Breeze™ white cheddar from Milton Creamery in Milton; organic Bibb lettuce; and mustard sauce on a Big Marty’s sesame roll. Iannarelli also received $200 and an IPPA gift.

“The Pork + Pinot event was an overall hit,” said Kelsey Sutter, IPPA’s marketing and programs director. “It was a beautiful Iowa evening highlighted with delicious pork, wines, and great conversation.”

Other chefs and their dishes were: Hannah Elliott, Lola’s Fine Kitchen in Ankeny, Filipino Garlic Fried Rice; Cyd Koehn, Cyd’s Catering in Johnston, Gua bao-Pork Belly Buns; Jess Kruzslicz, Bubba in Des Moines, Pork Belly Crostini; and Said Pineda, El Fogón in West Des Moines, Tacos Carnitas.

IPPA provided $600 stipends to each of the chefs/chef teams to cover the costs of the food they prepared.



NBB Hits the Airways with NPR Sponsorship

The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) today announced a three-week sponsorship of National Public Radio (NPR) as part of comprehensive educational campaign aimed at decision-makers and the public. The 15-second spot will air on some of NPR’s most listened to programs including Morning Edition, All Things Considered and 1A.

“We’re excited to share the biodiesel industry’s ‘Better. Cleaner. Now!’ message with a national audience through this NPR sponsorship,” said Liz McCune, NBB director of communications. “Thanks to the generous support of the United Soybean Board, Kentucky Soybean Board, Nebraska Soybean Board and Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board, we are able to educate a broad and diverse audience about how biodiesel and renewable diesel are reducing carbon emissions now, from coast to coast.”

NBB is sponsoring a total of 46 spots on nine programs beginning in September, with estimated impressions of more than 30 million. The ad was voiced by NPR’s Jessica Hansen.  The copy is as follows:
     “Support for NPR comes from the National Biodiesel Board, the United Soybean Board, and state soybean checkoff boards, whose members are delivering low-carbon fuels today. More information is at bettercleanernow.com.”



National Farmers Union Pleased Lawsuit Against the “Big 4” Packers Moving Forward

This month, a federal judge in Minnesota ordered a class-action lawsuit against JBS, Tyson, National Beef, and Cargill to proceed. In the case, National Farmers Union is among the plaintiffs alleging that America’s four largest beef packers conspired to suppress the price of cattle and increase the price of beef.

“We are pleased the effort to restore pricing transparency and competitiveness to the cattle markets is moving forward in the courtroom. This case is nearly two-and-a-half years old and we look forward to the next step in the litigation,” commented Rob Larew, President, National Farmers Union.

The case now enters the discovery phase of the trial, where evidence and information will be presented to demonstrate how packers violated the Sherman Antitrust Act, the Packers and Stockyards Act, and the Commodity Exchange Act.

“As the case moves to discovery, NFU will continue to hold the packers accountable. Malfeasance in the cattle markets has been very damaging to independent farmers and ranchers, and we look forward to continuing to advocate for our members in the courtroom,” Larew added.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 9/24/2021

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending September 24, ethanol production scaled back by 12,000 barrels per day (b/d), or 1.3%, to a four-week low of 914,000 b/d, equivalent to 38.39 million gallons daily. Production was 3.7% above the same week last year, which was affected by the pandemic, but 4.6% below the same week in 2019. The four-week average ethanol production volume increased 0.3% to 925,000 b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 14.18 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks ticked 0.5% higher to 20.2 million barrels. Stocks were 2.7% above the year-ago level but 12.9% below the same week in 2019. Inventories built in the East Coast (PADD 1) and West Coast (PADD 5) but declined across the other regions.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, improved by 5.7% to 9.40 million b/d (144.09 bg annualized). Gasoline demand was 10.2% above a year ago and 2.9% more than the same week in 2019.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol rose to the largest weekly volume this month, up 1.2% to 910,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.95 bg annualized. Net inputs were 8.3% above a year ago but 1.4% less than the same week in 2019.

There were zero imports of ethanol recorded after 36,000 b/d hit the books the prior week. (Weekly export data for ethanol is not reported simultaneously; the latest export data is as of July 2021.)



Fertilizer Prices Keep Climbing

Two fertilizers saw significant price increases in the third week of September 2021, according to retail prices tracked by DTN.  A number of other fertilizer prices moved higher too, although they didn't meet the 5% threshold, which DTN considers significant.  

Potash was 10% higher compared to last month. The fertilizer had an average price of $625/ton.  Urea was 5% more expensive than the prior year. The nitrogen fertilizer had average price of $585/ton.  The average retail price for MAP was 4% more expensive than last month at $786/ton.  At 3% higher, anhydrous was $772/ton, UAN28 $383/ton, UAN32 $436/ton.  DAP prices increased 2% to an average price of $709/ton, while 10-34-0 was flat at $633/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.64/lb.N, anhydrous $0.47/lb.N, UAN28 $0.68/lb.N and UAN32 $0.68/lb.N.

Retail fertilizer prices compared to a year ago show all fertilizers have increased significantly.  10-34-0 is now 39% more expensive, urea is 62% higher, DAP is 63% more expensive, UAN32 is 72% higher, MAP is 74% more expensive, UAN28 is 78% higher, anhydrous 82% is more expensive and potash is 85% higher compared to last year.



USDA Commits $500 Million for ASF Prevention

The National Pork Producers Council today commended Agriculture Secretary Vilsack for dedicating $500 million in USDA Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) funds for prevention of and preparation for African swine fever (ASF), a pig-only disease that would be devastating for the U.S. pork industry.

The CCC, a wholly owned government corporation created in 1933, implements specific agricultural programs established by Congress and carries out activities under the CCC Charter Act.

“NPPC thanks Sec. Vilsack for providing additional funding for federal efforts to protect America’s 60,000-plus pork producers from this devastating disease,” said NPPC President Jen Sorenson. “The United States remains free of ASF, and the U.S. pork industry for the past several years has been doing everything it can to maintain that status. These funds will help that effort.”

“To paraphrase then-Vice President Biden, this is a big freakin’ deal,” said Bob Acord, an NPPC consultant and former administrator of USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). “This is unprecedented both in terms of the amount dedicated to one animal disease and of getting the funds upfront, before we have the disease in the U.S.”

ASF, which is not a threat to people but is highly contagious among hogs and has a nearly 100 percent mortality rate, recently was detected in the Dominican Republic and in Haiti, the first time in 40 years the disease has been in the Western Hemisphere. APHIS immediately took steps to stop the spread of the disease to the U.S. mainland and to the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Ever since ASF began spreading through Asia in 2018, NPPC has been urging Congress and USDA to prepare for the disease, asking for, among other things, funds for additional U.S. agricultural inspectors, more staff for USDA’s Veterinary Services, funds for APHIS’s Veterinary Stockpile for equipment to euthanize hogs and additional washout facilities for trucks that transport livestock.

For its part, NPPC has been educating U.S. pork producers about precautions to protect the U.S. swine herd, including using caution when hosting on-farm visitors from ASF-positive regions of the world, reviewing biosecurity protocols to ensure consistent practice of appropriate safeguards and discussing with feed suppliers the origin of ingredients they use in hog feed formulas.

“ASF is a serious disease, with serious consequences for pork producers,” Sorenson said. “We’re pleased USDA recognizes the severity of this threat and is dedicating a lot of resources to deal with it and to protect the nation’s pork producers.”



USDA Announces $3 Billion Investment in Agriculture, Animal Health, and Nutrition; Unveils New Climate Partnership Initiative, Requests Public Input

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced a comprehensive set of investments to address challenges facing America’s agricultural producers. These include assistance to address challenges and costs associated with drought, animal health, market disruptions for agricultural commodities, and school food supply chain issues. Secretary Vilsack also outlined and requested public comments on a new climate partnership initiative designed to create new revenue streams for producers via market opportunities for commodities produced using climate-smart practices.

“American agriculture currently faces unprecedented challenges on multiple fronts,” said Vilsack. “The coronavirus pandemic has impacted every stage of our food supply chain, from commodity production through processing and delivery. Farmers, ranchers and forest landowners increasingly experience the impacts of climate change as severe storms, floods, drought and wildfire events damage their operations and impact their livelihoods. We know these challenges will continue into 2022, and others may emerge. Through this comprehensive set of investments, USDA will take action to prevent the spread of African Swine Fever, assist producers grappling with drought and market disruptions, and help school nutrition professionals obtain nutritious food for students. Tackling these challenges head-on better positions USDA to respond in the future as new challenges emerge.”

Comprehensive Investment Package – Details Announced Today
USDA is preparing $3 billion in investments that will support drought resilience and response, animal disease prevention, market disruption relief, and purchase of food for school nutrition programs. The support will be made available via the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC). Specifically, funds will be used to provide:
    $500 million to support drought recovery and encourage the adoption of water-smart management practices. From rising temperatures and heat waves, to early snow melt and low rainfall, record-breaking drought has affected producers across the country and has left ranchers with bare winter pastures and short on hay and pushed crop producers to adjust to running their operations with a fraction of the water usually available. This assistance will target these challenges and enable USDA’s Farm Production and Conservation agencies to deliver much needed relief and design drought resilience efforts responsive to the magnitude of this crisis.
    Up to $500 million to prevent the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) via robust expansion and coordination of monitoring, surveillance, prevention, quarantine, and eradication activities through USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. ASF outbreaks have proven devastating in other parts of the world due to lost production and trade. It is critical for all of us to work together to stop the spread of this disease.
    $500 million to provide relief from agricultural market disruption, such as increased transportation challenges, availability and cost of certain materials, and other near-term obstacles related to the marketing and distribution of certain commodities, as part of Secretary Vilsack’s work as co-chair of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force.
    Up to $1.5 billion to provide assistance to help schools respond to supply chain disruptions. Throughout the pandemic, school food professionals have met extraordinary challenges to ensure every child can get the food they need to learn, grow and thrive. But circumstances in local communities remain unpredictable, and supply chains for food and labor have been stressed and at times disrupted. These funds will support procurement of agricultural commodities and enable USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) and Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) to enhance the toolbox for school nutrition professionals working hard to make sure students have reliable access to healthy meals. Today’s announcement builds on the range of work that USDA has been doing to identify ongoing issues school districts face during this difficult time and provide the resources, tools and flexibility they need to serve students healthy and nutritious meals.

This set of targeted investments will address unmet needs in our food system, and complement a suite of programs USDA is implementing in response to COVID-19, including the Department’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative and the longer-term Build Back Better initiative designed to address supply chain vulnerabilities and transform our food system based on lessons from COVID-19.

Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Partnership Initiative: Request for Information
USDA is committed to partnering with agriculture, forestry and rural communities to develop climate solutions that strengthen rural America. Today, Secretary Vilsack announced a new initiative to finance the deployment of climate-smart farming and forestry practices to aid in the marketing of climate-smart agricultural commodities. Guided by science, USDA will support a set of pilot projects that provide incentives to implement climate smart conservation practices on working lands and to quantify and monitor the carbon and greenhouse gas benefits associated with those practices. The pilots could rely on the Commodity Credit Corporation’s specific power to aid in expansion or development of new and additional markets. The Department published a Request for Information (RFI) seeking public comment and input on design of new initiative.

“Through extreme weather, drought and fire, our agriculture producers are on the frontlines of climate change,” said Vilsack. “The new Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Partnership Initiative will support pilots that create new market opportunities for commodities produced using climate-smart practices and position U.S. farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners as leaders in addressing climate change. The pilots will invest in the science, monitoring and verification to measure the benefits of these climate smart practices. Today, we ask for public input to inform our decision making and enhance the design of this initiative.”

Comments may be provided on or before 11:59 p.m. EST on November 1, 2021 via the Federal Register, Docket ID: USDA-2021-0010. Feedback will be used to inform design of the new Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Partnership Initiative. USDA is seeking input specifically on:
    The current state of climate-smart commodity markets,
    Systems for quantification,
    Options and criteria for evaluation,
    Use of information collected,
    Potential protocols,
    Options for review and verification,
    Inclusion of historically underserved communities.

Comments are encouraged from farmers and farmer organizations, commodity groups, livestock producer groups, environmental organizations, agriculture businesses and technology companies, environmental market organizations, renewable energy organizations, Tribal organizations and governments, organizations representing historically underrepresented producers, organizations representing historically underrepresented communities and private corporations.

USDA is committed to equity in program delivery and explicitly seeks input on how to best serve historically underrepresented producers and communities. This aligns with the Justice40 initiative, an effort to ensure that Federal agencies work with states and local communities to deliver at least 40% of the overall benefits from Federal investments in climate and clean energy to disadvantaged communities.

Insights gained through this process will inform development of a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) soliciting Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Partnership Initiative project proposals that encourage the adoption of climate-smart practices and promote markets for climate-smart commodities. USDA plans to announce the NOFA this fall, with project proposals accepted early next year.

Under the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is engaged in a whole-of-government effort to combat the climate crisis. Through climate-smart agriculture and forestry partnerships, USDA aims to enhance and create new markets and streams of income for farmers, ranchers, producers and private foresters and strengthen rural economies while also improving protocols to measure, monitor and track carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas emissions. Successfully meeting these challenges will require USDA to pursue a coordinated approach alongside stakeholders, including State, local and Tribal governments.



RFA: Ethanol a Perfect Fit for USDA’s New ‘Climate-Smart’ Efforts

The Renewable Fuels Association today thanked USDA Sec. Tom Vilsack for the agency’s new efforts to launch a “climate-smart” agriculture and forestry program. USDA announced today it is seeking comments to “test development of a Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Partnership Program that could encourage adoption of CSAF practices and promote markets for climate-smart commodities.” Specifically, USDA is considering actions that can be supported by the Commodity Credit Corporation to expand the use of climate-smart farming practices and aid in the marketing of low-carbon agricultural commodities.

“Earlier this year, RFA’s ethanol producer members led the way in pledging to reach net-zero carbon emissions, on average, by 2050 or sooner, and the program announced today by USDA could play a critical role in helping us get there,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “Ethanol is the perfect climate-smart commodity, and we look forward to reviewing and commenting on USDA’s new program.”

According to the USDA, it is considering actions to expand the use of climate-smart farming practices and aid in the marketing of agricultural commodities, and it defines the term “climate-smart commodity” to refer to agricultural commodities that are produced using farming practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or sequester carbon. USDA is seeking comments on priorities and program design of the Climate-Smart Agriculture and Forestry Partnership Program that would facilitate the expansion of markets for agricultural commodities.



NMPF Applauds USDA Climate-Smart Initiative, Supply Chain Assistance

The National Milk Producers Federation, which represents U.S. dairy farmers and the cooperatives they own, commended the Biden Administration and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack for key steps announced today to assist U.S. farmers and consumers with current challenges while charting a course toward a long-term, climate-smart future for all of agriculture.
 
“NMPF applauds Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and his team at USDA for its climate smart agriculture initiative announced today,” said NMPF President and CEO Jim Mulhern. “By aiding the finance of climate-smart farming practices and the marketing of climate-smart commodities, this initiative will ensure even greater U.S. leadership in sustainably feeding the planet. It also will help keep U.S. farmers competitive in a global market that’s increasingly sensitive to agriculture’s effects on climate.
 
“U.S. dairy farmers have been and will remain leaders in sustainable agricultural production, supporting innovative use of technology and committing to a carbon-neutral future through its forward-thinking Net Zero Initiative. The recently concluded UN Food Systems Summit showed how U.S. government leadership can foster productive dialogue on agriculture and the world’s future climate. Dairy supports these efforts and looks forward to working with USDA and other agencies on crucial climate initiatives.”
 
Congress is currently considering additional conservation funding with an emphasis on climate smart practices. NMPF led a broad coalition last month supporting new investments in conservation programs targeted toward climate smart practices that can yield meaningful environmental benefits.

Mulhern also praised USDA’s move to provide $500 million in relief from agricultural market disruptions, such as backlogs at U.S. ports that are impeding the flow of dairy products to the consumers worldwide who are demanding them.

“In addition to these important climate initiatives, U.S. dairy farmers appreciate USDA’s allocation of Commodity Credit Corp. funds to alleviate the economic damage caused by recent backlogs at U.S. ports that are hindering access to critical markets overseas,” Mulhern continued. “Although dairy exports are at a record pace, it is coming at a heavy cost to our members and to exporters of U.S. dairy products. Foreign buyers are demanding even greater volumes while voicing growing concerns about U.S. reliability. We stand ready to assist the administration any way we can to help alleviate the ports crisis and aid those who have been negatively affected.”



National Farmers Union Files Comments Urging EPA to Include Minimum Octane Standard in GHG Rule

In comments filed this week with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Farmers Union strongly encourages the Agency to make appropriate regulatory changes to support increased use of mid-level ethanol blends, including high octane, low carbon fuels.

In the comments filed on Monday, NFU President Rob Larew detailed the challenges that climate change poses to agricultural production and family farmers’ ability to pursue improvements in global food security and how biofuels can address some of these concerns.

“Biofuels have played an important role in supporting family farms, which have faced a struggling economy and significant pressure to stay in production,” commented Rob Larew, NFU President. “NFU has long supported the use of ethanol as a fuel additive for gasoline formulations to enhance octane levels. Use of higher ethanol blends provides significant benefits to the rural community, the environment and beyond.”

NFU also joined with the High Octane Low Carbon Alliance on submitting additional comments in support of higher octane, lower carbon fuels. HOCLA includes the National Corn Growers, Renewable Fuels Association and the Clean Fuels Development Coalition.



ICASA Awards Two Grants to Improve Antibiotics Use in Cattle

Maintaining the efficacy of antibiotics is a complex issue affecting both human and animal health. The International Consortium for Antimicrobial Stewardship in Agriculture (ICASA) is awarding a $191,800 grant to Kansas State University and a $200,000 grant to Texas Tech University to develop management strategies that improve judicious antibiotic use in beef cattle.

Infectious outbreaks in cattle are difficult to detect and prevent with existing tools. Without effective detection tools to identify infected animals, diseases spread rapidly and result in significant losses for producers. A prevalent and economically consequential disease affecting cattle is bovine respiratory disease (BRD), which affects about 20 percent of cattle and costs producers $800-900 million annually. A common approach to controlling BRD is metaphylaxis, in which a group of animals receive antibiotics simultaneously to manage the disease in a population.

There are two challenges with this approach. Firstly, producers do not always have enough information about the animals’ BRD risk when they arrive at the feedyard. Producers frequently consider animals’ geographic origin, breed, weight, previous vaccination status, season and weaning status when deciding to apply metaphylaxis. Other considerations including weather and commercial markets could better inform metaphylactic treatment decisions, but producers often do not have this information. Thus, metaphylaxis is administered based on the best estimate of the animal’s risk for BRD. Secondly, producers do not have clear guidance on how to best identify and exclude animals that may not need treatment.

Dr. Brad White from Kansas State University is using the ICASA grant to develop a predictive model that informs metaphylaxis decision-making. White is developing machine learning predictive models to determine cattle’s BRD risk by combining many sources of information available at the time of feedyard placement. Innovative Livestock Services, Hy-Plains Feedyard, VRCS and the Beef Alliance are contributing additional funding for a total $391,715 investment. As a cloud technology partner, Microsoft is providing leading subject matter experts to assist the researchers in designing a secure research data platform with artificial intelligence, machine learning and cognitive capabilities that can further the research objective.

Dr. Kristin Hales from Texas Tech University received a $200,000 ICASA grant to develop a science-based management strategy that administers metaphalyaxis to only the animals that need treatment. Hales is using a noninvasive handheld infrared device to evaluate the temperature of individual cattle upon arrival at the feedlot. Cattle with high temperatures that are determined to be at risk for BRD will be administered metaphylactic treatment. By isolating and administering treatment to only the cattle in need, this research can reduce the use of antimicrobials and the spread of antimicrobial resistant bacteria in beef production systems across the food chain. Texas Tech University is contributing additional funding for a total $400,000 investment.

The Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) established ICASA in 2019 with an initial $7.5 million investment to fund research that promotes targeted antibiotic use, advances animal health and welfare and increases transparency in food production practices. The private sector is matching FFAR’s investment for a total $15 million investment in antibiotic stewardship research.



Research IDs Keys to Consumer Acceptance of Ag Technology

New research from The Center for Food Integrity (CFI) identifies driving factors of consumer acceptance or rejection of technology, providing farmers and other organizations with insights to advance the innovation crucial to U.S. agriculture and a safe, sustainable food supply.

“Agriculture has a rich history of innovation,” said Charlie Arnot, CFI CEO. “As farming and food production practices integrate more technology, it’s increasingly important for those in agriculture to understand the keys to successfully building support for technology so they can continue to make progress.”  

In the research, conducted with support from the United Soybean Board (USB), CFI measured consumer attitudes regarding four agriculture and food technologies with the overarching goal to identify the drivers of consumer acceptance and rejection of technology as a whole. The technologies used as prompts in this study included gene editing in plants, gene editing in animals, plant-based meat and cultured (cell-based) meat.      

Acceptance Drivers
Several consistent themes regarding support for and rejection of technology emerged in the study. Among the key drivers for acceptance:
    Belief that food resulting from technology use is safe to consume
    Information on food produced through technology is readily available, enabling an informed choice of voluntary exposure
    Benefits outweigh perceived risks
    Technology can help ensure a consistent supply of food
    Technology promotes greater sustainability by making more with a lesser environmental impact

“Consumers are concerned about the direct impact on them, ‘is the food I’m consuming safe and healthy?’” said Arnot. “That’s why there’s greater concern about technology like pesticides and gene editing, compared to drone technology or GPS systems.”     

The research shows that consumers also trust in the organizations that approve and monitor the impact of technologies, and they prefer third-party, independent oversight, along with information from that third-party source.

For a technology to be accepted, the benefits of the technology must outweigh the perceived risk of consuming the end product.

“This study shows acceptance of ag technology is highly dependent on the tangible nature of the technology output,” said Arnot. “In other words, ingredients are not as ‘visible’ to consumers, while end products like meat sold in restaurants or grocery stores are very visible. The more tangible the product and perceived impact, the greater the need to deploy a strategic approach to earn acceptance.”    

Additional findings show that Gen Z, millennials and early adopters (those that actively research and share information) are more accepting of technology to solve challenges. Generally, consumers in these groups also believe they are more knowledgeable about agriculture technology.

“It’s important that we engage these consumer segments as they will continue to drive broader consumer acceptance and have growing purchase power,” said Arnot.   

CFI will detail findings during a free one-hour webinar on Monday, Oct. 25, at 2 p.m. CT.  A registration link can be found on the home page at www.foodintegrity.org.

While the research shows only one in 10 feel they know a lot about the use of technology to grow food in the U.S., nearly two out of three have a very positive or somewhat positive impression of the use of technology.  

“That points to a tremendous opportunity for those in agriculture and food to keep the momentum going and engage on the many benefits of innovation in producing safe, nutritious food to meet the needs of consumers and protect our planet,” he said.  

To conduct the research, CFI applied a model on consumer acceptance of food technology published in the June 2020 issue of Nature Food by Siegrist and Hartmann. CFI research was conducted via survey in July 2021 across the U.S. and included a random sample representative of the larger population.  



Angus Convention offers cattleman-focused education

Angus breeders, commercial cattlemen and beef industry enthusiasts can make legendary progress at the 2021 National Angus Convention and Trade Show in Fort Worth, Texas, Nov. 6-8. A Texas-sized weekend full of networking and entertainment, attendees can get the most bang for their buck by participating in thought-provoking educational sessions.

"Angus Convention is a great opportunity for Angus breeders to tap into education to further their businesses," said Mark McCully, American Angus Association chief executive officer. "We are excited to provide sessions for every cattleman, regardless of operation type."

Back and better than ever, Angus University breakout sessions will be held on Sunday afternoon, Nov. 7. With twelve sessions to choose from, attendees will learn about marketing their operation, Angus tools and services, industry advancements and ways to improve their business.

In the Making Your Mark track, cattlemen and women can attend sessions on branding their operation, the value of the registration paper and utilizing today’s tools to create catalogs. New Angus breeders should attend the Learning Angus track to hear about AAA Login, AIMS and the basics behind EPDs. The Cutting Edge educational track will cover the industry’s latest trends including gene editing, sustainability and reproductive technologies. And, learn about programs like AngusLinkSM, the Certified Angus Beef® brand and Angus Herd Improvement Records during the Advancing Your Herd track.

"Education goes beyond workshops," McCully said. "We’ve truly packed an entire weekend full of information for cattlemen and women."

A genetics symposium, sponsored by NEOGEN, will take the main stage on Saturday afternoon, Nov. 6. During the Finding Balance Panel, breeders will share their experiences with breeding plans and objectives. They will offer insight on how long-term strategic planning has benefitted their operation’s goals. In addition, Kelli Retallick-Riley, AGI president, will present new information on Sustained Cow Fertility, research that will help breeders identify longevity and ultimately improve their bottom line.

Interpreting genetic data and advancements in technology will be the highlight of a Navigating Genetic Data session, sponsored by Zoetis and held in the Priefert Cattle Demo Area. Association staff will help breeders with DNA and Angus Herd Improvement Records data collection, and commercial cattlemen can learn new marketing avenues in the Capturing Value session. Other industry partners will present topics and technologies in the Learning Lounge.

NACTS is the annual highlight event for the American Angus Association and includes keynote speakers, breakout sessions, entertainment and a trade show. In addition, the business of the Association will be conducted during the 138th Annual Convention of Delegates.

For more information about NACTS, including registration and a complete schedule, visit www.angusconvention.com.



Tennessee cattleman and restauranter completes his term as Certified Angus Beef board chair

From the moment his boots hit the dirt on the way to the barn, to switching off the lights and locking the door of the Hickory House Restaurant, Jonathan Perry is committed to the beef business.

The 2021 Chairman of the Certified Angus Beef Board of Directors brings a unique perspective to the table. By day, he’s a cattleman. For 23 years, he’s been general manager of Deer Valley Farm, a 6,500-acre operation where 2,000 registered Angus cows roam and 1,500 acres of crops are harvested annually. At night, Perry is meat cutter and cook at Hickory House Restaurant in Pulaski, Tennessee, which Perry has owned with his wife Jackie since 2014.

Angus cattle haven’t always filled Deer Valley’s pastures. Sixteen years ago, Perry and Dr. Fred Clark, owner of Deer Valley Farms, transitioned the herd to the business breed. They haven’t looked back.

"The need for Angus genetics was growing daily and the demand for our product through Certified Angus Beef was taking over every other breed in the industry," Perry says. "We decided that if we were going to be sustainable, stay here for the long haul, have a program that was productive and could stand on its own two feet, we had to venture into the Angus breed and change directions."

Perry seeks ways to improve not only Deer Valley’s herd, but the Angus breed too. He leans into others to get involved in the breed and help others learn too. Clark – Perry’s mentor and friend - reminds Perry often: "Just because we’ve done it that way before, doesn’t mean we have to keep doing it that way."

Navigating the pandemic as a cattleman and restaurateur was "eye-opening" to how fast things are changing.

"We have to be more prepared, more adaptable, and more willing to embrace change to serve that consumer in any way possible," Perry says. "We have to make cattle practical and sustainable, but we also have to continue to improve carcass yield, carcass merit and a high-quality product, so that we can hold our place in the market."

He’s gained an appreciation for the evolving marketplace since opening the Hickory House in 2014 and even more so in the last year serving as chairman.

"Certified Angus Beef brings quality product into the marketplace by supporting licensees and by putting the right product in the right place to make people successful in the foodservice and retail industries," Perry says.

The principles of integrity and dedication to quality driving his farm are carried into the restaurant and the grocery store through the Certified Angus Beef ® brand.

"It means everything for us to serve Certified Angus Beef in our restaurant. One, it's a product that we had such a stake in producing and developing. And two, we know that our customer is getting the most consistent, high-quality eating product in the industry," he says.

His guest’s eating experience is something Perry takes personally.

He doesn’t need a scale to perfectly slice the 14-ounce ribeye off the roll in the back of the restaurant. It’s simply second nature.

"The restaurant is my haven away from the world," he says. "It’s been a real labor of love."

A student of the world around him, Perry surrounds himself with people he can learn from and brings others under his wing to learn alongside him. His bright and easy-going personality draws others to conversations where both are sure to leave with a new perspective or piece of knowledge.

He's an ambassador for the Angus breed, Certified Angus Beef and all those who serve the beef business, constantly reminding cattlemen and culinary colleagues of all the brand has to offer.

"They are a wealth of knowledge and resources, and they're there to help you every step of the way," says Perry.

He’s grateful to have met folks throughout his year of service and ever-confident in the Certified Angus Beef ® brand’s ability to evolve through future changes in demands and resources.

It has been a challenging yet rewarding year, not unlike a busy night at the Hickory House. After dinner’s served and the lights go out at the restaurant, Perry’s reminded why he serves: "Good food, friends and fellowship. That’s what it’s all about."