Symposium provides youth with leadership skills and career opportunities in beef industry
The 17th annual Nebraska Youth Beef Leadership Symposium was held Nov. 19-21 at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Animal Science Complex.
The symposium connected youth from across Nebraska and beyond to introduce them to career opportunities and current issues in the beef industry, as well as offer education and practice in the use of leadership skills. Forty-three high school students from Nebraska and three additional states including Arizona, Kansas and Minnesota were in attendance this year. Since 2004, 680 students have participated in the event.
“This was the 17th year that we have hosted NYBLS on campus, and it continues to be one of the youth events the participants look forward to the most every year,” said Alli Raymond, Animal Science Recruitment Coordinator. “The symposium is a way to broaden horizons for its participants and grow the beef industry through young people.”
Eight $500 scholarships from the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources were presented. Scholarship recipients include: Jaylea Pope, Ravenna; Dustin Andreason, St. Edward; Helene Keiser, Gothenburg; Rasine Bolek, Alliance; Noah Summers, Gibbon; Haley Mouser, Tenstrike, MN; Braden Benes, Albion; and Emily Samuelson, Palmer.
This year, the symposium began with acclimating students to the beef industry. Attendees kicked off the symposium with an introduction to the beef industry from Bryan Reiling, associate professor of livestock production and management. After, participants had the opportunity to engage with industry professionals with programming related to beef production, carcass value and breakdown, beef palatability and flavor, nutritional value and food safety.
The symposium continued with interactive programming for youth to enhance their leadership and communication skills, increasing their understanding of beef. To understand their leadership styles, youth completed the Clifton StrenghsFinder Assessment and applied their individual strengths to the team-based project. Teams of participants were tasked with creating a beef entrée or appetizer suitable for being served at a Lincoln restaurant. They collaborated with a professional chef and UNL meat scientists to ideate and develop their culinary masterpiece.
On the final day of the symposium, youth participants showcased the leadership skills and knowledge of the beef industry that they gained. In addition to creating a culinary masterpiece, they learned marketing strategies from a marketing professional and developed a plan to market their product. Undergraduate students served as group leaders and Meat Science graduate students assisted the students with executing their projects. The groups were then able to present their marketing plan and receive critiques from judges.
Because of Nebraska’s strong ties to beef production, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln serves as a fitting location to prepare the next generation in the beef industry, Raymond said.
“Nebraska is known as the beef state, and there a lot of people passionate about the industry in this state. The future of the beef industry is in good hands with the youth that we’ve seen come through this program over the years,” said Raymond.
The NYBLS Planning Committee team members consisted of: Ashley Benes, Brianna Buseman, Blaine French, Alli Raymond, Bryan Reiling and Gary Sullivan.
For more information, contact Alli Raymond at araymond2@unl.edu.
Nebraska Farmers Union 108th Annual State Convention Passes Six Special Orders of Business
Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU) held their 108th annual state convention in farm homes and offices across the state December 3rd using the ZOOM platform. The convention theme was: “108 Years of Leadership”.
NeFU also held their Policy Day November 23rd virtually. NeFU Vice President Vern Jantzen chaired the Policy Day where the Legislative Delegates from the counties considered the policy suggestions from the counties and spent the day examining and updating the state policy document. The Legislative Delegates recommended their amended and updated policy to the State Convention Delegates for final consideration and approval along with six Special Orders of Business that highlight the NeFU 2022 priorities. The Special Orders of Business included:
Special Order of Business on Ag Market Reforms that supports NFU “Fairness for Farmers” campaign on ag market reforms; President Biden’s historic Executive Order on Competition; Senator Fischer and Representative Bacon for voting for it; the return of Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling for all meats and dairy products; and all legislative efforts designed to fix our broken, concentrated and non-competitive ag supply and marketing systems.
Special Order of Business on the Passage of the Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill’s Broadband Expansion Section urging Governor Ricketts and the Legislature to take full advantage of this historic opportunity to improve broadband access and quality across the state; and to extend the Broadband Bridge act if necessary to establish a future facing affordable, dependable, accessible high speed internet statewide broadband system.
Special Order of Business on the Passage of the Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill Transportation Section asking that Nebraska’s $2.5 billion of additional federal infrastructure funding be used to complete the long delayed Heartland Expressway project in western Nebraska, the Nebraska expressway system promised to Nebraskans three decades ago in 1988, and to replace unsafe and outdated state highway and county bridges.
Special Order of Business on Property Tax Relief urging State Senators to work together to dramatically reduce property taxes and use more sales and income taxes to fund K-12 schools; and Nebraska ag land and property owners to get and stay engaged in the legislative process to get a structural solution to a structural problem.
Special Order of Business on Net Metering urging the Legislature to increase the current 25 kw limit to 100 kw; allow multiple users to use aggregation to combine their systems; raise local system cap for net metering from 1% to 10%; and to use AC current as the standard to be measured for net metering system.
Special Order of Business on Hemp in Nebraska urging the Nebraska Department of Ag to administer the Nebraska Hemp Act consistent with the USDA Final Rule; streamline the licensing requirements; and to utilize federal infrastructure funding to increase and expand hemp processing.
New report looks at spending under Conservation Stewardship Program
Despite the clear value the Conservation Stewardship Program offers in supporting farmers and ranchers in enhancing conservation of natural resources on their operations, funding has been reduced significantly in the last two farm bills, according to a white paper released today by the Center for Rural Affairs.
“Mapping the Money: An Analysis of Spending Under the Conservation Stewardship Program,” authored by Anna Johnson, policy manager for the Center, traces the path of the funding, from Congress to on-the-ground conservation.
“Long-term viability of farms and ranches depends on the sustained health of soil and water resources,” Johnson said. “However, most conservation practices require a front-end investment from farmers and ranchers, which can serve as a barrier for implementation. CSP offers unique benefits to farmers interested in increasing conservation on their land.”
Created as part of the 2008 farm bill, CSP is designed to serve those farmers and ranchers who demonstrate they are currently invested in conservation. Through five-year contracts, CSP ensures conservation is increased across their entire operations—preventing cases in which good conservation happens on some acres while others are neglected.
The 2014 farm bill decreased the number of acres that USDA could enroll in CSP, and the 2018 farm bill changed the funding structure of the program from acres-based to dollars-based, both of which coincided with reductions in overall funding for the program.
“From more than $2 billion under the 2008 farm bill to between $1.1 billion and $1.9 billion under the 2014 farm bill to less than $1 billion under the 2018 farm bill, CSP funding has been cut in half since the 2008 farm bill,” Johnson said. “Every year, USDA receives far more CSP applications than it has the ability to fund. For example, in 2020, only 25% of CSP applications were funded.”
For more information or to view “Mapping the Money: An Analysis of Spending Under the Conservation Stewardship Program,” visit cfra.org/publications.
Richey Joins Council As New Global Programs Coordinator
Sierra Richey joined the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) in its Washington, D.C., headquarters on Dec. 1 as the new global programs coordinator.
In this role, Richey will support the global programs department, make arrangements for visiting teams, organize staff and member travel and facilitate program planning and execution.
“We feel with Sierra’s education, international experiences including time in our Panama office and her Spanish language skills, she will fit right in with the global programs team and be a big asset for us,” said Cary Sifferath, USGC’s senior director of global programs.
Prior to the Council, Richey worked in Nebraska Wesleyan University’s global engagement office as a special projects coordinator and as an intern with the Council’s Latin America regional office in Panama. Richey has also acted as a mentor for highly gifted elementary students in the Lincoln, Nebraska, public school system, where she taught Spanish.
Richey holds bachelor's degrees in international business and modern languages with an emphasis in Spanish from Nebraska Wesleyan University.
Iowa Soybean Association Launches Iowa’s Front Forty
The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) is launching “Iowa’s Front Forty,” celebrating conservation champions in the state.
It recognizes farmers and others who utilize and promote innovative conservation methods. Iowa’s Front Forty will also seek to inspire further action in improving water and soil quality while illustrating how more public funding can dramatically increase the pace and scope of conservation activities in Iowa.
“We’re all about improving the productivity, profitability and natural resource management for soil and water in Iowa,” said Roger Wolf, ISA Director of the Research Center for Farming Innovation (RCFI). “The Front Forty captures the voices of local champions to advocate what’s been going on across Iowa for soil and water conservation for the purpose of replicating that success in other parts of the state.”
ISA is widely respected for implementing programs and services enabling soybean farmers to boost productivity in concert with effectively conservation practices. With the support of the Walton Family Foundation, Iowa’s Front Forty continues to celebrate conservation champions at the forefront of sustainable soil and water management practices.
For example, sharing stories of farmers who are successfully practicing and promoting soil and water quality has opened communication and dialogue among all Iowans regarding conservation. Each farmer can influence other farmers and citizens to do the same.
“We've no-tilled since 1991, and in 2012, we started experimenting with cover crops and working with members of the RCFI team,” said Wayne Fredericks of Osage, a farmer and member of the inaugural Iowa’s Front Forty class. “The resources and expertise provided by ISA has helped understand what species to plant, when to produce and terminate, and what affects yield.”
Another Front Forty farmer, Michael Vittetoe of Washington, said the primary conservation practice implemented in his operation is cover crops. The cereal rye is seeded on almost every acre of row crops the family farm grows.
“The most significant benefits we're seeing are erosion control and water infiltration, and we've been able to cut our herbicide program almost in half,” Vittetoe said.
Launching the Front Forty program to connect farmers, landowners and conservationists around Iowa will elevate these success stories, empower grassroots influencers to continue advocating and educate policymakers about the benefits of long-term conservation.
“ISA is going to continue to invest in these kinds of programs, and we believe the voices and actions of local people are what make all of this work,” Wolf added.
To learn more about Iowa’s Front Forty and get to know the 2021 champions, visit iowafrontforty.com.
Dairy Days Return in Northeast and Northwest Iowa in January and February
Iowa dairy producers will have the opportunity to hear Iowa State University Extension and Outreach specialists share information on emerging dairy industry issues at the 2022 Dairy Days, scheduled at four eastern Iowa locations and one northwest Iowa location.
At this year’s program, producers will learn about methods of euthanasia, composting mortalities, farm personalities, transition cow nutrition, milk marketing, industry updates and more.
“The Iowa State Extension Dairy Team is excited to bring back our annual Dairy Days program in person this year,” said Jenn Bentley, dairy specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “This program gives producers a chance to learn about a variety of topics and be able to network with other producers and industry representatives.”
Dairy Days will be offered at the following locations in January and February: Elma, Calmar, New Vienna, Kalona and Orange City. Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. and the program will conclude by 2:30 p.m. The $15 registration fee includes the meal and proceedings costs. Pre-registration is requested by the Friday before each event to reserve a meal. Vouchers may be available from local agri-service providers or veterinarians.
Following registration, the event begins with a presentation by Jan Shearer, extension veterinarian at Iowa State, on the Methods of Euthanasia and their Effects on Carcass Disposal.
Mid-morning presentations include Composing Moralities, by Brian Dougherty and Kris Kohl, ag engineers with ISU Extension and Outreach; How Personalities Affect your Farm and Family, by Larry Tranel, dairy specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach; and Care and Feeding of the Transition Cow, by Gail Carpenter, assistant teaching professor in dairy production at Iowa State.
Lunch is at noon, followed by Lightning Talks presented by dairy specialists Fred Hall, Jennifer Bentley and Gail Carpenter, on the topics of milk marketing, the Iowa Dairy Survey and Milker Training Resources.
The event concludes around 2 p.m. with closing comments. For more information, contact your participating county ISU Extension and Outreach office.
Register online at: https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eb92Sk03sSX2dTM.
Bentley can be reached at 563-382-2949 or jbentley@iastate.edu. Fred Hall can be reached at 712-737-4230 or fredhall@iastate.edu.
Winter Grazing Field Day Planned at Beef Teaching Farm
Is winter grazing really an option for beef producers in Iowa? Based on research at the Iowa State University Beef Teaching Farm, it definitely is an option. And it's proven to be an even more cost-effective winter feeding strategy than providing the traditional stored hay.
A field day to demonstrate two winter grazing options will be held Wednesday, Jan. 5, at the Iowa State Beef Teaching Farm at 3725 520th Ave, Ames. The program includes specialists from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and will begin in the teaching farm pavilion at 1 p.m. The day will conclude with a walking tour of the grazing systems.
One research study to be featured is winter grazing of a cover crop mix consisting of radishes, turnips and oats, that evaluated fall-calving cow and calf performance compared to performance of fall pairs in a drylot setting.
Preliminary results have shown no difference between cow growth or reproductive performance, while cover crop grazing has benefited calf performance. During the winter of 2019, grazing cover crops for only 34 days reduced the stored feed costs by $96 per cow. The field day will feature results of the three-year project funded by the Iowa State Beef Checkoff Program.
The second research study features swath grazing of warm season annuals. Sorghum x sudangrass was seeded in early June, harvested once in late July as hay, and then allowed to grow into the fall. The regrowth was mowed and raked into sizable swaths prior to the first substantial snowfall.
Spring calving cows were turned into the swath fields after grazing cornstalk fields as their winter feed, and maintained on the swaths until calving in March. This year will be the third year of this feeding strategy for the Iowa State farm and attendees will be able to see this project in action.
The field day also will feature information to help producers address fencing and water limitations, and includes an optional farm tour to see some of the research and grazing systems in action. Speakers for the program include ISU Extension and Outreach beef specialists Denise Schwab, Garland Dahlke, Beth Reynolds and Erika Lundy-Woolfolk, and Iowa State Beef Teaching Farm manager David Bruene.
The Jan. 5 program is free to all beef producers thanks to grants from the Iowa Forage and Grasslands Council and the North Central Extension Risk Management Education Center. For more information, contact Denise Schwab at dschwab@iastate.edu.
National Biodiesel Board CEO to Keynote 2022 Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit
At a time when the advanced biofuel arena is on the cusp of several growing market opportunities, the Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) is excited to announce Donnell Rehagen, CEO of the National Biodiesel Board as the biofuel keynote speaker at the 2022 Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit.
“Everything from planes, trains, homes, and ships are looking to advanced biofuels like biodiesel to lower their carbon footprint,” said IRFA Marketing Director Lisa Coffelt. “We look forward to having Donnell discuss these opportunities and help us glimpse what the future holds for advanced biofuels at the 2022 Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit.”
The 2022 Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit takes place on January 25 at the Community Choice Convention Center in the heart of Des Moines. The Summit is free and open to the public but registration is required. To register and learn more about the 2022 Summit, visit IowaRenewableFuelsSummit.org.
Johnson elected Iowa Farm Bureau president at 103rd annual meeting
Members of Iowa’s largest general farm organization gathered at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center in Des Moines this week to celebrate the achievements of county Farm Bureaus and young farmer leaders from across the state, and for the first time in a decade, delegates elected a new president following the retirement of Craig Hill.
Brent Johnson of Calhoun County was elected the 14th president of the Iowa Farm Bureau, succeeding Craig Hill of Ackworth, following his retirement after 40 years of Farm Bureau leadership, serving as IFBF president for the past 10 years.
Johnson farms in Manson with his wife, LuAnn, son Matt and daughter-in-law Rebekah. He and LuAnn also have a daughter, Kaeli and two grandchildren. Johnson previously served as IFBF District 4 director, first elected in 2016. Johnson grows corn and soybeans, raises beef cattle and owns an independent precision ag company specializing in GPS soil sampling, precision ag equipment, data management and the deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for data analysis. Johnson earned an agronomy degree from Iowa State University (ISU). In addition to his service on the IFBF board, he’s held various positions on the Calhoun County Farm Bureau board, chaired the IFBF Young Farmer Committee and is a Calhoun County soil commissioner.
“Being selected by our members to serve as president of the Iowa Farm Bureau is a tremendous honor, and I look forward to working with our statewide membership to continue the advancement of Iowa agriculture,” Johnson said. “Leading the state’s preeminent grassroots farm organization during such a critical time in agriculture is no small task, but with a long history of achievement and an engaged and unified membership, the Iowa Farm Bureau is positioned for continued success.”
Farm Bureau members participated in several educational breakout sessions during the two-day meeting, receiving valuable insight into effectively operating a family farm business and strengthening farming communities. Members also received valuable insight on federal policy discussions and developments that will shape agriculture in the months and years ahead. Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds addressed members during the closing session and reaffirmed her strong support of Iowa farm families as a longtime champion of agriculture. Governor Reynolds recognized Farm Bureau’s role as a partner in conservation and water quality efforts in the state and its role ensuring historic tax reform during the previous Iowa legislative session.
The meeting concluded with a motivational keynote from former U.S. Army Ranger, Keni Thomas, the inspiration behind the popular film, “Black Hawk Down.” Thomas’ leadership message about stepping up in the face of adversity and working to support and build up those around you was met with thunderous applause from the 800 in attendance.
IFBF Elections
Randy Brincks of Winneshiek County was re-elected IFBF District 1 director, comprised of 11 counties in northeast Iowa. Brincks was first elected director in 2018 and farms with his wife, Mary, on their family farm near Ossian. They grow corn, soybeans, and alfalfa and also finish beef cattle and raise farrow-to-finish feeder pigs.
Matt Schuiteman of Sioux County was also re-elected as IFBF District director representing District 3 comprised of 12 counties in northwest Iowa. Schuiteman was first elected to the board in 2018. The Schuitemans grow corn and alfalfa and were early adopters of cover crops, using them on the farm since 2005. The Schuitemans also farrow and finish sows, custom feed Isowean pigs, and have a cow-calf herd of registered Shorthorn and Shorthorn plus cattle.
Brian Feldpausch of Grundy County was elected to the IFBF board to represent District 5 following the retirement of Mark Buskohl. The district is made up of 11 counties in central Iowa. Feldpausch and his wife, Jen, have three children, Abby, Nick and Will, and grow corn and soybeans, maintain a cow/calf herd and custom feed hogs. Feldpausch currently serves on the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) budget and taxation advisory committee and previously served on the IFBF internal study committee. Feldpausch held various positions with the Grundy County Farm Bureau and serves on the BCLUW community school board.
Nine delegates were elected to represent Iowa at the 2022 AFBF Annual Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, January 7-12. They include: IFBF President Brent Johnson of Calhoun County; IFBF Vice President Joe Heinrich of Jackson County; District 2 director Andy Hill of Worth County; Ben Albright of Calhoun County; Brian Borcherding of Franklin County; Jody Martens of Jackson County; Mark Ogden of Johnson County; Michael Johnson of Page County; and a district director to be determined, replacing Brent Johnson.
Jeff Pape of Dubuque County was elected to a three-year term on the IFBF internal study committee. The internal study committee serves as a liaison between the county Farm Bureau voting delegates and the state board of directors.
Distinguished Service to Ag Award
The Distinguished Service to Agriculture (DSA) Award honors individuals who have played a significant role in the agricultural industry at the local, state and/or national level, and IFBF bestowed the honor on two individuals during its Annual Meeting.
Dr. Paul Armbrecht was nominated by the Calhoun County Farm Bureau board for his dedication to his community and animal health as a veterinarian in Lake City since 1971. Armbrecht grew up on a farm near Colo, and attended ISU’s veterinary school. After graduation, he was drafted into the military and upon completion of his service returned to Lake City to assist a local veterinarian before opening his own practice. Many of his clients are multi-generational, stemming from their great-grandpa’s original small herds. He is well-known for his expertise on swine health and has participated in swine disease eradication initiatives.
“I care about the community. I continue to see the importance of both connecting with the community but also being an ear to concerns and issues and having a chance to being able to make change,” says Dr. Armbrecht. “But some things that don’t change is the absolute necessity for people to have the care and knowledge of the animals they have.”
Ron Leistikow of Readlyn was nominated by the Bremer County Farm Bureau for his continued involvement and volunteerism within his community and agriculture. After graduation in 1958 from Readlyn High School, he farmed with his dad until he married his wife, Judy, and they began their own farm. Both he and Judy became involved with Farm Bureau, including the young farmer program. The Leistikows are a multi-generation farm family, and their six kids are still involved in agriculture today, including a son and grandson who farm with them on their grain, dairy and beef farm. In addition to Farm Bureau, Leistikow is a member of the Bremer County fair board, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Iowa Corn Growers Association, Iowa Soybean Association and the local historical society.
“The more you put into something, the more you get out of it,” says Leistikow. “But we can’t do it as one person. We have to be a unified group, and we hope Farm Bureau keeps up their outstanding support of agriculture.”
Young Farmer Leadership Award
Three young Iowa farmers received the IFBF Young Farmer Leadership Award for their inspiring work in agriculture and within their communities. Cordt Holub of Tama County, Megan Kregel of Clayton County, and Michael McEnany of Story County. The Young Farmer Leadership Award celebrates young farmers under 35 who are actively contributing to their communities, county and state and growing as leaders. The award is presented in honor of past IFBF President Bob Joslin who was well known for his support and encouragement for young farmers.
Despite having very different backgrounds and farm operations representing various aspects of Iowa agriculture, the 2021 Young Farmer Leadership Award winners share a passion for Iowa agriculture and have found working through Farm Bureau is a great way to achieve their goals. The young farmers were recognized as innovative leaders with a passion for telling the story of Iowa agriculture and building relationships between farmers and consumers. To learn more about these young farmers and their efforts advancing Iowa agriculture, check out IFBF’s special three-part podcast series where the award winners share their story and vision for the future of Iowa agriculture.
Farm, Biofuel Groups Ask EPA to Resolve Summertime E15 Barrier
To facilitate year-round sales of E15 nationwide and remove arcane barriers to innovation and consumer choice in the retail fuel marketplace, six national farm and biofuel organizations have asked the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to enact regulations requiring lower-volatility conventional gasoline blendstock in the summertime. This would result in lower tailpipe and evaporative emissions during the summer ozone control season and improve air quality.
In a letter to EPA Administrator Michael Regan, Growth Energy, Renewable Fuels Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, National Corn Growers Association, National Farmers Union, and National Sorghum Producers said reducing the volatility of gasoline by just 1 pound per square inch (psi) would yield significant environmental benefits.
Regarding air quality, the six organizations referenced and attached a new study using EPA modeling tools, showing that reducing the vapor pressure of conventional gasoline blendstock by 1 psi “…would be beneficial to air quality, as emissions of carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) would be reduced.” The study further concluded that “if the elimination of the 1-psi waiver [for E10] leads to the replacement of E10 with E15, it will also decrease greenhouse gases and particulate emissions.”
The organizations also wrote that the move would “simplify engineering of emissions control systems and help facilitate compliance with Renewable Fuel Standard requirements, with no noticeable impact on fuel costs.” They attached a new economic study showing that lowering the volatility of gasoline blendstock would impact the cost of the fuel by just 1-2 pennies per gallon.
In addition, the regulatory strategy suggested in the letter would address November 3 request from seven Midwest governors for EPA's help to secure state-level regulatory approaches to allow the E15 blend to be made available year-round. “The approach we suggest here would be similar to that contemplated by the Governors, but rather than a state-by-state solution, the proposed regulatory fix would be nationally applicable.”
Biofuel, Transportation Groups Ask Congress to Clarify SAF Credit, Disallow Co-Processed Petroleum
Today, Growth Energy, National Biodiesel Board (NBB), NATSO, representing America’s travel plazas and truckstops, and SIGMA: America’s Leading Fuel Marketers, asked Congressional leaders to exclude fuels made by co-processing biomass with petroleum at oil refineries from proposed Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) tax incentives. Co-processed fuels are ineligible for the biodiesel and renewable diesel tax credit. The groups asked Congress to clarify language in the Build Back Better Act to ensure that all transportation fuels – including aviation fuels – made by co-processing biomass with non-biomass feedstocks are ineligible for incentives.
“To prevent stranding investments in existing and emerging environmentally beneficial biofuels facilities in rural America, and to ensure that any new SAF incentives are consistent with other tax incentives in driving economic, employment and environmental benefits, we respectfully request that lawmakers amend the definitions of SAF in both the Sustainable Aviation Fuel and the Clean Fuel Production Credit to clarify that eligible SAF does not include fuels derived by co-processing biomass with a feedstock that is not biomass,” the letter states.
Pork Industry Foundation Launches Scholarship to Honor NPPC’s Dierks
The National Pork Industry Foundation, a nonprofit research and educational organization led by pork industry leaders and managed by the National Pork Producers Council, today launched the Neil Dierks Scholarship to honor NPPC’s long-time CEO, who is retiring at the end of the year.
The $5,000 scholarship will be given annually to a college student pursuing a graduate degree at a land grant university in a field related to the pork industry.
“The National Pork Industry Foundation is privileged and excited to launch this scholarship in Neil’s name,” said Missouri pork producer Scott Hays, who is NPPC vice president and the NPPC representative on the foundation’s board of directors. “His 30 years of dedicated service to the pork industry has included countless contributions, not the least of which is nurturing future leaders and seeking and elevating talented people with a variety of skills to serve as pork industry resources and decision-makers for today and tomorrow. So, it is very fitting that the foundation honor him through this scholarship program.”
Said Dierks, who has served as NPPC’s CEO for 21 years, “I am extremely humbled by this honor. This is one of my proudest recognitions because this scholarship will help foster new leaders for the pork industry, people who will guide us into the future and help ensure the great women and men who make up our industry can continue feeding people around the globe with safe, nutritious pork.”
Applications for the scholarship, which will be funded through contributions to the pork industry foundation, are due in September, with each year’s recipient announced at the pork industry’s annual meeting – the National Pork Industry Forum – which usually is held in early March. The initial scholarship will be awarded at the 2023 meeting.
The new scholarship program compliments the Lois Britt Memorial Pork Industry Scholarship, which the National Pork Industry Foundation sponsors along with the CME Group. Named after the late NPPC board member Lois Britt, the program annually gives $2,500 scholarships to 10 college undergraduates intending to pursue careers in the pork industry. NPPC administers the program, and winners are announced at the National Pork Industry Forum.
(For more information on the Neil Dierks Scholarship and on making a contribution to the National Pork Industry Foundation, visit https://nppc.org/programs/scholarship)
Producer Support of Beef Checkoff Remains Strong
Jerry Bohn, National Cattlemen's Beef Association President
More than 35 years ago beef producers came together to develop a program to drive demand for beef, and the Checkoff they created continues today stronger than ever. Cattle producers have accomplished great things for the industry by working together to direct Checkoff investments. The Beef Checkoff belongs to the cattlemen and cattlewomen who pay and direct it, and they have the right to decide the future of this great program. The Beef Promotion and Research Act makes it very clear that cattle producers can utilize a grassroots petition process to determine whether the Checkoff continues.
In July 2020 a petition was started to call for a referendum on the Checkoff’s future. Last month, the overwhelming support that producers have for the Beef Checkoff was evident when efforts to collect signatures fell far short of the number needed to trigger a referendum.
When it comes down to it, I see this as a de facto referendum, with 95 percent of producers supporting the Checkoff by not signing the petition. Producers, your voices are being heard loud and clear. You have demonstrated your undeniable support for the Beef Checkoff and the valuable role it plays in our industry. It’s now time for our industry to put these divisive efforts behind us and move forward with the business of building beef demand.
Without the Beef Checkoff, producer-directed programs that share our story and promote beef would disappear, and cattle producers would be left without a connection to consumers. The Beef Checkoff has a long track record of solid returns for each dollar invested, and continues to use producer dollars wisely for research, education and promotion. Here are a few examples of your Beef Checkoff at work:
- The Beef Quality Assurance program training farmers and ranchers on best practices and cattle management techniques to ensure their animals and the environment are cared for within a standard set of guidelines across the U.S. beef industry.
- Product quality research improving beef quality, consistency, value and demand through research of muscle traits and characterization, carcass traits, muscle tenderness and yield, flavor and palatability, and new technologies.
- Nutrition research defending beef’s position in heart healthy diets using a strong foundation of science and helping consumers discover the benefits of beef to health across the life span.
- Sustainability research providing the tools necessary to share beef’s positive sustainability story with consumers and media.
- The iconic Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.® brand bringing beef to life for generations of consumers through traditional advertising, influencer outreach and social media.
- The Masters of Beef Advocacy program bridging the widening chasm between producers and consumers and helping farmers and ranchers share their stories and advocate knowledgeably for the beef industry.
For more than three decades, beef producers who fund and direct the investments of the Checkoff have made smart decisions that continue to educate consumers, build demand and conduct the necessary research that keeps consumers choosing beef. Now that the petition drive has failed, beef producers can continue to invest in the Beef Checkoff Program and support efforts that will keep beef in the center of the plate now and in the future.
EPA Announces Appointment of Meg McCollister as Regional Administrator for EPA Region 7
Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael S. Regan announced that President Biden will appoint Meg McCollister to become EPA’s Regional Administrator for Region 7. McCollister will lead the implementation of the Biden-Harris environmental agenda in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and with nine Tribal Nations.
“Meg brings deep experience in community organizing and stakeholder engagement. I know she will ensure voices throughout Region 7 are heard on key issues and I’m very excited to welcome her to the team,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan.
“I’m incredibly honored to be appointed as Regional Administrator for Region 7 to address environmental justice, climate change, and also build resilience for our important regional industries” said McCollister. “President Biden and Administrator Regan have ambitious goals for addressing the climate crisis, and I look forward to working with staff, as well as local governments and regional stakeholders, to collaborate on innovative solutions to the challenges before us.”
“I want to extend a warm Region 7 welcome to Meg. We are excited to have her lead our efforts to enact President Biden’s and Administrator Regan’s priorities here in the Heartland,” said Deputy Region 7 Administrator Edward H. Chu. “I particularly would like to thank all our regional staff, who have worked tirelessly on behalf of the American public during the transition period.”
Meg McCollister has a strong advisory and advocacy background with nearly two decades of experience serving non-profits, candidates for public office and public policy campaigns. Born in Kansas and raised in both Kansas and Missouri, she received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas before attending the University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Law, where she earned her Juris Doctorate with an emphasis in Urban, Land Use and Environmental Law. After law school, McCollister and her husband moved to Sonoma County, California, where she served on the Board of Directors for Sonoma County Conservation Action and worked on environmental campaigns and in local government. Upon her return to the Midwest, she has continued to serve as an advisor and strategic thinker in areas including environmental, health, and social improvement initiatives as well as communication strategies. McCollister resides in Kansas City with her husband, three children and rescued greyhound. She enjoys running, hiking, and exploring the outdoors.
Hundreds of Cross-Sectional Domestic Interests Call for MCOOL
Today, over 400 cross-sectional U.S.-based trade organizations, both food and non-food small businesses, and individuals, from all across the United States, have joined a letter now being distributed to every U.S. Senator urging them to quickly endorse and enact the American Beef Labeling Act of 2021 (S.2716). The act is best known as the mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) bill for beef and requires beef sold at retail grocery stores to bear a conspicuous label informing consumers as to where the animal from which the beef was derived was born, raised, and harvested.
Introduced in the U.S. Senate in September, the bipartisan MCOOL bill is sponsored by Senators John Thune (R-S.Dak.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Mike Rounds (R-S.Dak.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.) John Hoeven (R-N. Dak.), and Ben Ray Luján (D-N. Mex.). Sources say more cosponsors will soon be added.
Like the cross-sectional interests of the hundreds of signatories on the letter, the letter itself was written by national representatives from many segments of the United States economy, including consumers, workers, manufacturers, and farmers and ranchers.
“Federal policymakers have allowed an unaccountable, unelected international tribunal to veto labeling requirements supported by the vast majority of Americans,” said Thomas Gremillion, Director of Food Policy at Consumer Federation of America. “This bill stands up for the consumers’ right to know, and in a way that honors U.S. trade obligations.”
“American consumers want to know where their food comes from, and Farmers Union members want to tell them,” said Rob Larew, President of National Farmers Union. “We thank the sponsors of this bill for taking an important step towards more openness and in the beef market because it will help provide fairness for farmers and ranchers. We urge Congress to swiftly pass the American Beef Labeling Act of 2021.”
“We appreciate the leadership of Senator Tester here in Montana – and all other bill cosponsors across the nation – for creating legislation that restores honesty and safety to the U.S. food system,” said Jeanie Alderson, a Birney, Montana rancher and board member of Northern Plains Resource Council. “The American Beef Labeling Act will correct our fraudulent labeling rules, help address the monopoly corruption in our cattle markets, and create trust and safety for American families who deserve to know where their food comes from.”
“For too long, the federal government has allowed foreign raised meat repackaged in the United States by multinational corporations to be labeled Product of the USA,” Mitch Jones, Managing Director of Advocacy Programs and Policy at Food & Water Watch said. “The American Beef Labeling Act rights these wrongs and provides consumers the transparency they want and deserve. The bill would also work against the ever-worsening corporate consolidation of the meat industry that is harming Americans’ health and their wallets.”
“Bureaucrats at the World Trade Organization, at the request of Canada and Mexico, told American consumers in 2014 that it was against their rules for retail beef to be labeled as to country of origin,” said Michael Stumo, CEO of the Coalition for a Prosperous America. “Astoundingly, our government meekly complied. It is long past time to fix this problem so families can know where their beef was raised and processed. The bipartisan American Beef Labeling Act of 2021 needs to pass.”
“We applaud the sponsors and cosponsors of this important legislation,” said R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard. “U.S. cattle producers strive to produce the best beef in the world for American consumers. This legislation will enable America’s consumers to choose their beef.”
In urging U.S. senators to cosponsor and quickly enact MCOOL, the letter explains, “This legislation would promote a safe and affordable supply of wholesome beef for America’s consumers; a fairer, more competitive market for America’s cattle farmers and ranchers; and quality family-sustaining jobs for meat processing workers.”
Case IH Partners with MacDon Industries Ltd.
Case IH has announced a partnership with MacDon Industries Ltd. to manufacture co-branded draper headers designed for Case IH Axial-Flow® combines. The new line of draper headers will be available to order in early 2022 at Case IH Dealers on a worldwide basis, with the exception of South America.
“Case IH and MacDon have a shared legacy and goal of making harvesting easier and more productive for North American farmers,” said Scott Harris, Case IH global president. “By pairing Case IH’s industry-leading portfolio of Axial-Flow combines and a robust dealer network with MacDon’s draper header expertise and products, we aim to deliver a best-in-class harvesting package for producers.”
Based in Manitoba, Canada, MacDon has manufactured high-performance harvesting equipment for more than 70 years. Like Case IH, the company is known for working directly with producers and custom harvesters to make equipment that helps producers efficiently harvest crops and fuel the world.
“Innovating to help producers harvest more of what they grow is a top priority,” said Harris. “We look forward to collaborating with MacDon to offer a high-efficiency draper header-combine solution that raises the bar for harvesting productivity.
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