Wednesday February 16 Ag News

Saunders County Livestock Meeting is Monday Feb 21

Saunders County Livestock Association Meeting is set for Monday Feb. 21st, St. Joseph's Parish Hall, Colon NE. 6:30 p.m. social 7:00 p.m. dinner. Members are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for the Saunders County Food Pantry.   See you there!



HUSKER RESEARCHER BUILDING DATABASE TO HELP FARMERS BREED HARDIER SHEEP

Genetic analysis is an increasingly important and common tool in guiding animal breeding. With the use of genomic information, a growing number of desired traits for livestock that boost herd health and producer profitability are being incorporated into breeding programs. Considerable gaps exist in genetic data collection for the sheep industry, however, and a new research project led by a faculty member in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources aims to build a needed inventory of such data.

The project, funded by a $650,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, will develop a database of traits for robustness and climatic resilience. Researchers will assemble current and additional genetic data, as well as performance records, for several major U.S. sheep breeds: Katahdin, Polypay, Rambouillet and Suffolk.

Ron Lewis, professor of animal breeding and genomics in the Department of Animal Science, is the project director.

The sheep industry contributes nearly $6 billion annually to the U.S. economy. Lewis noted that nationally, sheep farms outnumber dairy cattle, pig and broiler enterprises. Distinctive breed-types of sheep are dispersed across a wide range of climates and management systems.

“Breeding robust animals that perform well under these conditions is paramount to the industry’s sustainability,” said Lewis, who serves as the technical adviser to the National Sheep Improvement Program, providing genetic evaluation service for sheep and goat producers across the United States.

Lewis’ research in animal genetics intertwines theory, simulation and field studies in sheep, beef and poultry. He works closely with other researchers in North America, the United Kingdom and Australia.

This NIFA-funded project involves experienced sheep breeders in various U.S. climatic regions, with research done at Nebraska, Purdue University and three of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agriculture Research Service centers. Co-investigators include Brad Freking and Tom Murphy of the USDA’s Meat Animal Research Center in Clay Center, Nebraska.

“By the end of the project, our reference populations in each of the four breeds involved in the study should have more than 3,000 animals with genomic information,” Lewis said. “This will be complemented by performance data on these animals and their relatives.”

That data should improve producers’ understanding of several key traits affecting the robustness and profitability of sheep enterprises, with genomic-enhanced estimated breeding values, or GEBV, generated to help them evaluate those traits. Given that GEBV are more accurate, producers can make better selection decisions that increase the profit potential for their operations.

Because the new study will build sizable reference populations, “we should be in good shape to provide reliable GEBV in these breeds,” Lewis said. “We are already doing so in one of them,” the Katahdin breed.

By integrating genetic data sets, the researchers will be able to comprehensively evaluate traits of robustness, including lamb survival, ewe longevity, gastrointestinal parasitism and udder health. To analyze climatic resilience, the project will record changes in body weights and condition scores across seasons, resilience to environmental challenges, and hair shedding in the Katahdin breed.

The project ultimately aims to provide training to the next generation of scientists with interest in sheep breeding and boost the industry’s long-term competitiveness and advancement.



USDA Announces Appointments to the National Pork Producers Delegate Body

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the appointment of 150 producers and five importers to the 2022 National Pork Producers Delegate Body.

Members appointed to serve one-year terms are:
    Alabama: Kaleb Skinner, Fruithurst; Joe Bradley, Wedowee
    Alaska:  Richard Worrell, Wasilla; Pattie Worrell, Wasilla
    Arizona:  Bruce Lawler, Lakeside; Guillermo Anchondo, Show Low
    Arkansas:  Kayla Christine Blake, Russellville; Steve Balloun, Dardanelle
    California:  Rogelio Mata, Corcoran; Caleb A. DeFreitas, Visalia
    Colorado:  Minda Mares, Julesburg; Roc Rutledge, Yuma
    Connecticut:  Jonathan Secchiaroli, Waterford; Hazel Secchiaroli, Waterford
    Delaware:  John B. Tigner, Jr., Hartly; Henry C. Johnson IV, Selbyville
    Florida:  Tommy Crawford, Lake Butler; Kyle Mendes, Lake Butler
    Georgia: Dania DeVane, Cuthbert; Mark Clemmer, Broxton
    Idaho:  Dave Roper, Kimberly; Brad Thornton, Kuna
    Illinois:  Chad Leman, Eureka; Thomas Titus, Elkhart; Alan Kollmann, Altamont; Cheryl Walsh, Princeville; Dale Weitekamp, Raymond; Jason Propst, Toledo
    Indiana:  Douglas Newcom, Brookston; James L. Erickson, North Manchester; Tyler Fledderman, West Lafayette; Joe Baldwin, Union City; David E. Hardin, Avon; Dan Sprague, Greenfield
    Iowa:  Linda Schroeder, Remsen; Lance Heuser, Manson; Mark Meirick, Protivin; Trish Cook, Winthrop; Ben Schmaling, Prescott; Ryan Pudenz, Ames; Joel Van Gilst, Oskaloosa; Mike Deahr, West Liberty; Tim Bierman, Larrabee; Aaron Cook, Winthrop; Howard Hill, Cambridge; Jim F. Hogan, Monticello; Gregg Hora, Fort Dodge; Aaron Juergens, Carroll; Greg Lear, Spencer; Rod Leman, Fort Dodge; Dennis Liljedahl, Essex; Curtis Meier, Clarinda; Dwight D. Mogler, Alvord; David Moody, Nevada; Mike Paustian, Walcott; Kevin Rasmussen, Goldfield; Dale Gerard Reicks, New Hampton; Ken Ries, Ryan; Marv Rietema, Sioux Center; Jamie Schmidt, Garner; Tim Schmidt, Hawarden; Dave Struthers, Collins; Trent Thiele, Elma; Marv Van Den Top, Boyden
    Kansas:  Kenton McKee, Goff; David Hartter, Sabetha; Roy J. Henry, Longford; Michael Springer, Neodesha
    Kentucky:  Eric Heard, Russellville; Benji Hudnall, Bowling Green
    Maine:  Michael Hemond, Minot; Brittany Hemond, Minot
    Maryland:  Michael Stoner, Taneytown; Alan C. Eck, Henderson
    Michigan:  Andy White, Jones; Brian Pridgeon, Montgomery; Joseph Dykhuis, Holland
    Minnesota:  Chris Compart, Nicollet; Meg E. Freking, Alpha; Brian B. Johnson, Walnut Grove; Amber Portner, New Ulm; Abbie Redalen, Chatfield; Brian Schwartz, Sleepy Eye; Todd Selvik, Waseca; Angie Toothaker, Granada; Myrna Jean Welter, Stewartville; Brad Hennen, Ghent; Roger D. Punt; Prinsburg; John Anderson, Belgrade; Dale Stevermer, Easton
    Mississippi:  Sean Boe, Moselle; Gerald Thompson, Bruce
    Missouri:  Steve Brier, Nevada; Adam Dohrman, Houstonia; Donald Lewis Laut, Jr., Fredericktown; Dean Rehmeier, Augusta
    Montana:  Jacob A. Waldner, Havre; Peter John Wipf, Carter
    Nebraska:  Terry O’Neel, Friend; Darin Uhlir, Saint Paul; Bart Beattie, Sumner; Hunter Thomas, Broken Bow
    Nevada:  Clayton Combs, Las Vegas; Sarah Stallard, Las Vegas
    New York:  James M. Luckman, Lewiston; Jennifer Schwab, North Java
    North Carolina:  Gaye D. Crowther, Tabor City; David Dee Herring, Lillington; Lorenda B. Overman, Goldsboro; Christina Phillips, Wallace; James L. Lamb, Clinton; Jim H. Lynch, Goldsboro; Jared Porter, Concord; Zack McCullen III, Clinton; Jesse Sumner, Clinton; Jerry Hairr, Clinton
    North Dakota:  Nick Bundermann, Starkweather; Brian Zimprich, Milnor
    Ohio:  Josh K. Berry, Pleasantville; John D. Heinz, Washington Court House; Janel Hord, Bucyrus; Nick Seger, Sidney
    Oklahoma:  Angie Johnson, Holdenville; Tina Falcon, Tecumseh; Joe Popplewell, Stillwater
    Oregon:  Jennifer Blake, Newberg; Ray Blake, Newberg
    Pennsylvania:  Ben Barcovtch, Berwick; Jason Manbeck, Bethel; Jeremy A. Ranck, Christiana; David A. Reinecker, York Springs
    South Carolina:  Mark A. McLeod, Pinewood; Gary Curtis Lee, Jr., Alcolu
    South Dakota:  Shane Odegaard, Lake Preston; Greg Feenstra, Huron; Ryan Storm, Mount Vernon; Douglas Noem, Bryant
    Tennessee:  Dolly Jane Barnes, Selmer; James Mathis, Duck River
    Utah:  Cole D. Sorenson, Beaver; Jace K. Ballard, Benson; Jeff Williams, Grantsville
    Virginia:  Jessica Cunningham, Elberon; R.O. Britt, Williamsburg
    Washington:  Tom Cocking, Colfax; Robin Cocking, Colfax
    Wisconsin:  Ryan Cain, Osseo; Alicia Prill-Adams, Platteville
    Wyoming:  Ana Shmidl, Pine Bluffs; Joe Bridges, Powell
    Importers:  Martin Sauer, Jersey City, N.J.; Roland L. Schinbeckler, Warren, N.J.; Jeanine Costa, Bayonne, N.J.; Elisa Sandson, Arlington, Va.; Ole Nielsen, Madison, N.J.

Delegates meet annually to recommend the rate of assessment, determine the percentage of assessments that state associations will receive, and nominate producers and importers to the National Pork Board. Representation on the Delegate Body is based on annual net assessments collected on sales of domestic hogs within individual states, with a minimum of two producers from each state. States have the option of not submitting nominees.

The Pork Board and the Delegate Body were established under the Pork Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act of 1985. By law, USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service oversees operations of the Pork Board and the Delegate Body.



Agricultural Producers Have Until March 15 to Enroll in USDA’s Key Commodity Safety Net Programs

Agricultural producers who have not yet enrolled in the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs for the 2022 crop year have until March 15, 2022, to sign a contract. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) offers these two safety net programs to provide vital income support to farmers experiencing substantial declines in crop prices or revenues.  

“The Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs provide critical financial protections to many American farmers. As producers continue to weather a bruising pandemic and new, climate-induced disasters, these programs are all the more important,” said Zach Ducheneaux, Administrator of USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). “I am encouraging producers to reach out to their county offices to learn about program eligibility and election options today, so that they can begin the enrollment process as soon as possible.”  

Producers can elect coverage and enroll in ARC-County or PLC, which are both crop-by-crop, or ARC-Individual, which is for the entire farm. Although election changes for 2022 are optional, producers must enroll through a signed contract each year. Also, if a producer has a multi-year contract on the farm and makes an election change for 2022, it will be necessary to sign a new contract.   

If an election is not submitted by the March 15, 2022, deadline, the election remains the same as the 2021 election for crops on the farm. Farm owners cannot enroll in either program unless they have a share interest in the crop.    

Producers have completed 976,249 contracts to date, representing 54% of the more than 1.8 million expected contracts.  

Producers who do not complete enrollment by the deadline will not be enrolled in ARC or PLC for the 2022 crop year and will not receive a payment if triggered.   

Producers are eligible to enroll farms with base acres for the following commodities:  barley, canola, large and small chickpeas, corn, crambe, flaxseed, grain sorghum, lentils, mustard seed, oats, peanuts, dry peas, rapeseed, long grain rice, medium and short grain rice, safflower seed, seed cotton, sesame, soybeans, sunflower seed, and wheat. 

Decision Tools
In partnership with USDA, two web-based decision tools are available to assist producers in making informed, educated decisions using crop data specific to their respective farming operations:  
    Gardner-farmdoc Payment Calculator https://fd-tools.ncsa.illinois.edu/, a tool available through the University of Illinois allows producers to estimate payments for farms and counties for ARC-CO and PLC. 
    ARC and PLC Decision Tool https://www.afpc.tamu.edu/, a tool available through Texas A&M that allows producers to estimate payments and yield updates and expected payments for 2022.  

Crop Insurance Considerations and Decision Deadline
ARC and PLC are part of a broader safety net provided by USDA, which also includes crop insurance and marketing assistance loans. 

Producers are reminded that ARC and PLC elections and enrollments can impact eligibility for some crop insurance products. 

Producers on farms with a PLC election have the option of purchasing Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO) through their Approved Insurance Provider; however, producers on farms where ARC is the election are ineligible for SCO on their planted acres for that crop on that farm.  

Unlike SCO, the Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO) is unaffected by an ARC election. Producers may add ECO regardless of the farm program election. 

Upland cotton farmers who choose to enroll seed cotton base acres in ARC or PLC are ineligible for the stacked income protection plan (STAX) on their planted cotton acres for that farm.   

Producers should contact their crop insurance agent to make certain that the election and enrollment made at FSA follows their intention to participate in STAX or SCO coverage. Producers have until March 15, 2022, to make the appropriate changes or cancel their ARC or PLC contract.  



Most Fertilizer Prices Up From Previous Month During First Full Week of February 2022

Retail fertilizer prices continued to be mostly higher the first full week of February 2022, according to sellers surveyed by DTN. All but one of the major fertilizers were higher compared to last month.  Seven of the eight major fertilizers were slightly higher, although none were up a considerable amount. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

DAP had an average price of $876 per ton compared to last month, MAP $935/ton, potash $815/ton, 10-34-0 $827/ton, anhydrous $1,487/ton (all-time high), UAN28 $600/ton and UAN32 $699/ton (all-time high).

In recent weeks, UAN28 was at or above $600/ton. This is the first time UAN28 has ever been above $600/ton in our dataset.

One fertilizer was lower in price from the previous month. Urea was slightly lower with an average price of $905/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.98/lb.N, anhydrous $0.91/lb.N, UAN28 $1.07/lb.N and UAN32 $1.09/lb.N.

Most fertilizers continue to be considerably higher in price than one year earlier.  MAP is now 46% more expensive, DAP is 49% higher, 10-34-0 is 61% more expensive, urea is 100% higher, potash is 105% more expensive, UAN32 is 145% higher, UAN28 147% is more expensive and anhydrous is 184% higher compared to last year.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 2/11/2022

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending February 11, ethanol production increased by 15,000 barrels per day (b/d), or 1.5%, to 1.009 million b/d, equivalent to 42.38 million gallons daily. Production was 10.8% more than the same week last year, which was affected by the pandemic, but 3.0% less than the same week two years ago. The four-week average ethanol production volume declined 1.1% to 1.020 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.64 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks expanded 2.8% to 25.5 million barrels. Stocks were 4.9% higher than a year ago and 2.8% more than the same week two years ago. Inventories built across all regions except the Gulf Coast (PADD 3).
                                                                                                              
The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, sank 6.1% to 8.57 million b/d (131.38 bg annualized). Gasoline demand registered 1.9% higher than a year ago but 3.9% less than the same week two years ago.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol improved by 2.0% to 835,000 b/d, equivalent to 12.80 bg annualized and a seven-week high. Net inputs were 5.8% more than a year ago but 6.8% less than the same week two years ago.

There were zero imports of ethanol recorded for the third consecutive week. (Weekly export data for ethanol is not reported simultaneously; the latest export data is as of December 2021.)



Senators Highlight Environmental, Economic Value of Ethanol and the Renewable Fuel Standard

Three U.S. senators today highlighted the environmental and economic benefits of corn ethanol during a hearing on the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) held before the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works.

During the hearing, Sens. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), who serve on this important committee, discussed the transportation emission reductions that result from renewable fuels, ethanol’s contribution to lowering fuel prices and agriculture’s role in producing and improving renewable fuels, among other issues.

“We appreciate Sens. Duckworth, Ernst and Stabenow for setting the record straight when it comes to agriculture and ethanol,” said National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) president Chris Edgington. “We were very pleased to have them highlight and include NCGA’s statement, which shows the environmental benefits of ethanol, into the hearing record.”

NCGA’s statement to the committee explains how increased corn yields and corn production practices support soil health and water quality while lowering the carbon intensity for both corn and ethanol. It also describes farmers’ innovation and the technological advancements in corn production that enable farmers to produce more corn on less land and with fewer inputs than ever before, increasing feedstock supply while shrinking corn’s footprint.

“From 2008 through 2020, the Renewable Fuel Standard resulted in nearly 1 billion metric tons of cumulative greenhouse gas savings, significantly exceeding projections, largely due to the reduced carbon intensity of corn ethanol,” said Edgington in the submitted statement. “Today’s low carbon ethanol is positioned with the right policies, to achieve net-zero emissions and continue to decarbonize transportation.”

Low carbon liquid fuels are essential to decarbonizing transportation successfully and affordably, and ethanol is available now, Edgington noted.

 

Renewable Fuel Standard Has Been a ‘Resounding Success,’ RFA Tells Senate EPW Committee

Enacted in 2005 and expanded in 2007, the Renewable Fuels Standard has been a “resounding success” by any measure, the Renewable Fuels Association told the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works in testimony submitted today ahead of a hearing on the landmark energy and environmental policy.

“In addition to decreasing reliance on imported petroleum, the RFS has reduced emissions of harmful tailpipe pollutants and greenhouse gases, lowered consumer fuel prices, supported hundreds of thousands of jobs in rural America, and boosted the agricultural economy by adding value to the crops produced by our nation’s farmers,” wrote RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “And far from ‘distorting the free market’ as RFS opponents often claim, the policy has been remarkably effective in stimulating market competition and giving consumers more choices. Simply put, the RFS ensures renewable fuels are able to gain access to a fuel market that had been monopolized for nearly a century and would otherwise be closed to competition.”

In the testimony, RFA went into detail on these major points:
    The RFS has led to undeniable environmental benefits since its inception, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by approximately one billion metric tons.
    Compliance credits (or RINs) under the RFS do not increase the price of liquid fuel at the retail level and their cost is fully recoverable by the obligated party.
    The issuance of small refinery exemptions has had a negative impact on US biofuel producers, farmers, and the environment.
    Removal of unnecessary regulatory barriers that block the use of fuel blends containing higher levels of ethanol, such as 15 percent ethanol blends (E15), would enhance and improve RFS compliance and effectiveness.
    The opportunity for the RFS to help meet net-zero carbon emission goals by 2050 can be complemented by a nationwide technology-neutral, performance-based low carbon fuel standard.



Skor Testifies Before U.S. Senate on Renewable Fuel Standard’s Role in a Low-Carbon Future

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor testified today before the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works at its hearing titled “The Environmental Protection Agency’s Renewable Fuel Standard Program: Challenges and Opportunities”. In her testimony, Skor spoke on how a strong Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) is critical to decarbonize the transportation sector and lower prices for Americans at the pump.

"The RFS remains the nation’s most successful clean energy policy,” said Skor. “Yet, its full potential as a climate solution remains untapped. For the past eight years, a lack of accountability and failure to comply with the law has slowed progress on carbon reductions.

“Today, as Congress looks to immediately reduce the carbon intensity of our nation’s transportation fleet, it is imperative that biofuels like ethanol – the most affordable and abundant source of low-carbon, high-octane fuel on the planet – are part of our transportation mix now and into the future.”

Skor noted that in order to realize the full environmental benefits of the RFS, EPA must fix and finalize the 2020, 2021, and 2022 Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs) as quickly as possible.

“Since 2013, the RFS has consistently been undermined through the abuse of waivers, small refinery exemptions, and compliance deadline extensions. Most of these administrative actions have been to appease the unfounded claims of a select few looking to subvert the RFS, slowing progress on carbon reductions.

“EPA’s recent proposals, delayed as they are, right some of these wrongs. They include the required 15 billion gallons of conventional biofuel in 2022, a long overdue remedy for EPA’s unlawful 2016 general waiver, and an end to the abuse of small refinery exemptions.

“Despite these positives, EPA takes a major step backward by seeking to revise downward the 2020 blending obligations finalized two years ago. This retroactive change exceeds the agency’s authority and creates market disruption and uncertainty. EPA needs to fix and finalize the proposals as soon as possible.”

Looking forward, Skor urged the Senators to take action on year-round access to higher blends of ethanol, like E15, to achieve shared energy goals.

“Nationwide E15 use would slash CO2 emissions by more than 17 million tons, support more than 180,000 new jobs, and save consumers more than 12 billion dollars in annual fuel costs.

“Without immediate action, consumers will lose access to their most affordable fueling option on June 1st – when Americans drive the most.”



Clean Fuels Submits Testimony for Senate Hearing on RFS

Today, Clean Fuels Alliance America submitted written comments to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works ahead of its hearing to examine the Environmental Protection Agency's Renewable Fuel Standard program. Clean Fuels highlighted the RFS program's role in supporting expansion of domestic biodiesel and renewable diesel production capacity and achieving significant carbon emissions.

"The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) is necessary to build domestic alternative fuel production capacity, bolster U.S. energy security, and address environmental health. It is succeeding," Kurt Kovarik, Clean Fuels' Vice President of Federal Affairs, writes in the comments.

"Biodiesel and renewable diesel are solutions that reduce carbon now," Kovarik continues.

The RFS has reduced emissions by nearly a gigaton since its start in 2010. Use of biodiesel and renewable diesel reduced an estimated 143.8 million metric tons of carbon during that period, Clean Fuels notes in the comments. The average gallon of biodiesel and renewable diesel reduces emissions by approximately 74%. Every 100 million gallons of biomass-based diesel added to the RFS program obligations each year can reduced emissions by over 600,000 metric tons.

"Maintaining the RFS and its support for domestic biodiesel and renewable diesel producers is crucial right now, as the nation faces an ongoing shortage of diesel fuels," Kovarik adds. "We need the RFS program because oil refiners are simply unable to meet consumer needs for cleaner, better fuels."

In 2021, the biomass-based diesel market grew to 3.2 billion gallons -- its highest volume ever -- and generated more than 4.8 billion advanced biofuel credits for the RFS program. In 2020, the market reached 3 billion gallons, generating more than 4.4 billion advanced biofuel credits for the RFS. Per recent Reuters analysis, the shortage of distillates is a key supply chain bottleneck that is contributing to inflation that could trigger a recession.



ACE Commends Senators for Defending the RFS in EPW Hearing

The Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee held a hearing today entitled “The Environmental Protection Agency’s Renewable Fuel Standard Program: Challenges and Opportunities.” American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) CEO Brian Jennings commended a handful of bipartisan Senators for defending the program with the following statement:

“ACE extends our gratitude to Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) for standing up against misinformation, highlighting the benefits of the Renewable Fuel Standard, and reinforcing the need to get the program back on track during today’s hearing.

“We echo the sentiments expressed by these bipartisan Senators when it comes to the success of the RFS and that the program can do more when properly administered. We agree with Sen. Ernst that liquid fuels are ‘here to stay,’ as biofuels are a ‘key pathway’ to decarbonize the transportation sector and the RFS is the ‘policy engine’ that makes this possible.

“It’s unfortunate the RFS has become a scapegoat for opponents to target their blame when it comes to the cost of RINs and fuel prices, and we’re pleased the hearing reinforced that RIN prices and biofuel production are not responsible for high gas prices. Biofuel blends, like E15, bring down the price of fuel and we thank these senators for their support of allowing the summertime sale of E15.

“Further, as was mentioned in the hearing, science is on our side. Given improvements occurring in corn farming and within ethanol facilities, corn ethanol’s carbon footprint will continue to decline over time, and ACE is working on demonstrating the important link climate-smart farming practices and other technologies can have on improving carbon reductions at ethanol facilities.”  



Students Celebrate Agriculture and Leadership Around the Country

Agriculture is part of our daily lives—from the food we eat to the clothes we wear. Next week, more than 735,000 FFA members across the country will share the story of agriculture as part of National FFA Week.

Today, FFA provides the next generation of leaders who will change the world. As the top school-based youth leadership development organization in the nation, FFA helps young people meet new agricultural challenges by encouraging members to develop their unique talents and explore their interests in a broad range of career pathways. FFA members are our future leaders, our future food suppliers, our future innovators and so much more!

Whether through service projects or community gatherings, National FFA Week is a time for FFA members to raise awareness about the National FFA Organization’s role in developing agriculture's future leaders and the importance of agricultural education.

National FFA Week always runs from Saturday to Saturday and encompasses Feb. 22, George Washington's birthday. This year, the week kicks off on Feb. 19 and culminates on Saturday, Feb. 26.

The National FFA Board of Directors designated the weeklong tradition, which began in 1948, recognizing Washington's legacy as an agriculturist and farmer. A group of young farmers founded FFA in 1928, and the organization has been influencing generations that agriculture is more than planting and harvesting — it involves science, business and more.

“National FFA Week is an important week for members across the country, as not only do we celebrate the organization, but we share the message of FFA and agriculture,” said National FFA Advisor Dr. James Woodard. “During this week, FFA chapters across the country celebrate agriculture while thanking their supporters – whether it be their local alumni chapters, ag advisors or local businesses who support them. Today, FFA and agricultural education continue to play a key role in not only developing the next generation of leaders but also developing those who will be filling the ever-growing need in the talent pipeline.”

National FFA Week is a time for FFA members to share agriculture with their fellow students and their communities. During FFA Week, chapters also give back to their communities through various service projects.

The six national FFA officers will connect with chapters across the country throughout the week – delivering keynotes, greetings, workshops and more!

President Cole Baerlocher will visit FFA members in Illinois and North Dakota. Secretary Jackson Sylvester will visit with FFA members in Arizona and New Mexico. Central Region Vice President Cortney Zimmerman will visit FFA members in New Jersey and New Hampshire. Eastern Region Vice President Mallory White will visit with FFA members in Pennsylvania and Ohio, Western Region Vice President Josiah Cruikshank will visit with FFA members in Montana and Nebraska. Southern Region Vice President Erik Robinson will visit with FFA members in Oklahoma and Kansas and have virtual visits with chapters in Maryland and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

National FFA Week is also a time for alumni and supporters to advocate for agricultural education and FFA. Alumni and Supporters will celebrate Alumni Day on Tuesday, Feb. 22, and on Thursday,  Feb. 24, the National FFA Foundation will celebrate Give FFA Day, a 24-hour campaign encouraging the public to support various needs impacting FFA members. If interested in giving, one can visit FFA.org/GiveFFADay. Friday, Feb. 25, all FFA members and supporters are encouraged to wear blue and show their FFA pride!

National FFA Week will be featured on social media as well. Follow the #FFAweek hashtag on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and don’t miss @NationalFFA Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat posts.



National FFA and Syngenta partner for inaugural Executive in Residence

The National FFA Organization is partnering with Syngenta to lay the foundation for a national equity, diversity and inclusion strategy. This strategy will impact members, staff, leadership and directly influence the organization’s programs, services and events. Recognizing the importance of an Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I) strategy, National FFA partnered with Syngenta, a leading-agriculture company with a 40+ year relationship with FFA, to develop the inaugural Executive in Residence program. Syngenta’s North America Diversity & Inclusion Lead Brandon Bell will serve as the executive in residence for organizational development and culture as a part of this partnership.

In this position, Bell will help FFA create a framework to implement and measure the organization's ED&I goals. In this role, he will:
    Serve as an internal consultant to assess, design, develop and execute an ED&I strategy for the National FFA Organization in collaboration with the Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Integrated Management Team (IMT) senior leaders and stakeholders.
    Create a framework for implementing and measuring ED&I goals and values statements including, diverse membership, inclusive experiences, equitable access/success, organizational accountability, and delivery system impact that interfaces with broader organizational processes
    Interface, build relationships and facilitate focus groups with other National FFA Organization partners, stakeholders, and/or the Board of Directors to support the development of the ED&I strategy, tools, and tactics.
    Assess, create and deliver ED&I training, tools, and resources to FFA stakeholder groups.
    Assist with enhancing communication strategies across the organization related to ED&I activities on the company’s intranet, website and other publications.

"This partnership is part of a broader organizational transformation," said National FFA CEO Scott Stump. "We want to ensure our current and future members feel welcomed, and FFA is indeed a place for all to feel valued and contribute to our mission."

For a decade, Bell has partnered with leaders to design, deliver and implement equity, diversity and inclusion interventions across the civic, public and private sectors. Subscribing to the philosophy that change, equity and innovation are found at the junction of policy and practice, Bell takes a systemic and human-centered approach to his work to deliver tailored, sustainable solutions. He is an international facilitator and practitioner, with expertise in human capital management,  organizational development and globalization.

"I am honored and humbled at the opportunity to partner with FFA for this executive in residence program," Bell said. "I look forward to working with FFA to develop the next generation of leaders who will create an inclusive and innovative agricultural industry of the future!"

Syngenta has been a valued National FFA partner and supporter since 1963. They support leadership events, including  equity, diversity and inclusion and career pathways. In 2021, Syngenta received the Distinguished Service Citation during the 94th National FFA Convention & Expo. David Hollinrake, Syngenta global head of strategy and portfolio management, currently serves on the National FFA Sponsors' Board. He comments, “At Syngenta, we believe fostering inclusion is paramount to ensure every individual’s voice is heard and that diversity is the key for us to deliver the innovation required to overcome the challenges agriculture faces.  We are proud to partner with the FFA and support this important initiative.”



Brazil Soy Harvest Hits 24% of Area

Brazil's farmers had harvested 24% of the soy area through the end of last week, against 16% a week earlier and 9% in the same period last year, data from agribusiness consultancy showed AgRural on Monday.

In Parana, average yields remain very low in the west and southwest areas, confirming losses due to lack of rain and heat.

As farmers reap their soy, planting of Brazil's second corn continues to progress, reaching 42% of the area in the Center-South, against 24% a week earlier and well ahead of the 11% in the same period of the year.

Second corn is sowed after soybeans are harvested in the same areas, and represent 70%-75% of overall output in a given year.

AgRural estimates soybean production in the 2021/22 crop in Brazil at 128.5 million tonnes and corn production at 110.9 million tonnes this season.



Syngenta announces EPA registration of Tendovo soybean herbicide

Syngenta has announced that its new preemergence soybean herbicide, Tendovo™, has been registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and will be available for use next season, subject to state approvals.

Growers who use Tendovo can achieve early-season weed control without compromise. The first and only soybean three-way premix of its kind, Tendovo provides redefined early-season preemergence weed control, without the crop injury of competitive brands.

“We’re really excited to bring Tendovo to the market,” said Kevin Gesse, head of herbicide product marketing at Syngenta. “From a performance standpoint, it really stands out from the pack. The biggest thing growers will notice is that Tendovo stops early-season weeds but doesn't slow down soybean growth.”

With three sites of action, Tendovo delivers unprecedented weed control against more than 70 yield-robbing weeds. Regardless of soybean production system, soil type or geography, yield-focused soybean growers who adopt Tendovo can achieve not only early-season weed control and crop protection, but also higher potential yield at harvest.
 
“We’ve seen a 4 to 5 bushel an acre advantage in field trials with Tendovo1,” says Pete Eure, herbicide technical lead at Syngenta. “By controlling the tough weeds that compete with soybeans for sunlight, water and nutrients, Tendovo helps growers achieve superior potential yield and return on investment (ROI) at harvest.”

Across 15 head-to-head replicated trials at five weeks after emergence, Tendovo provided greater than 95% control of pigweeds and grass weeds versus competitive herbicides. In addition, those same trials showed soybean fields treated with Tendovo canopied more quickly, had better stands and, on-the-whole, looked healthier.2

Overall, soybean fields treated with Tendovo thrive — regardless of soil type, tillage system, geography or genetic package — and do not experience the yield drag sometimes seen with other herbicides.

For season-long control and optimum yield protection, Syngenta recommends using Tendovo preemergence in a planned two-pass program. It can be followed by a post-emergence application of Sequence® or Tavium® Plus VaporGrip® Technology herbicide, the Syngenta dicamba herbicide premix.

“The trend toward earlier planting and the spread of herbicide resistance further increase the need to make a preemergence residual herbicide application, and that need will continue to grow,” Eure said. “We are excited to bring another valuable formulation to the Syngenta soybean residual herbicide portfolio. With this latest innovation, growers can now achieve ultimate weed management and maximum yield and ROI potential across any trait platform. Better yield with effective herbicides, like Tendovo, really is the better deal for growers.”



New Puma, Maxxum Series Tractors Increase Productivity Through Comfort Upgrades

Operators have long known that Maxxum® and Puma® series tractors offer unmatched in-field versatility. Now, upgrades to Model Year 2022 Maxxum tractors equipped with MultiControl armrests and Puma 150/165 tractors will put operator comfort and convenience front and center for even greater flexibility. Updates include a low-mount wiper, new steps, new monitor bars and rearview mirrors, enhanced safety lighting and more.  
 
“When it comes to getting the most out of every moment in the field, operator comfort is second to none,” said J.E. Cadle, Case IH mid-range tractor marketing manager. “Maxxum and Puma series tractors are already known for their convenient designs and features that make in-cab comfort a priority. These new upgrades will further ensure that operators are able to work comfortably and productively regardless of field conditions.”

A suite of comfort- and productivity-boosting upgrades
Nothing slows productivity down like an uncomfortable operator experience. The new Maxxum and Puma series tractor comfort updates were designed with operators in mind. The updates include a host of convenient features that — taken together — lead to increased productivity out in the field. Features such as a premium leather-wrapped steering wheel and in-cab cool box keep operators comfortable during long days, while enhancements such as LED safety lighting, new sleek rearview mirror and low-mounted front wiper make for greater visibility for out in the field.

The full list of updates to Model Year 2022 Maxxum and Puma series tractors includes:
    Low-mount front wiper for maximum visibility
    In-cab cool box for increased operator comfort
    New aluminum steps
    New monitor bar with USB outlets for convenience
    New rearview mirror for better field of view
    New battery cutoff switch located outside the door
    LED beacon lights for greater visibility in all field conditions
    Elastic hood closing rope
    New advanced loader joystick with reverser

Enhancements build on 2021 improvements
In 2021, select Maxxum and Puma series tractor models were equipped with additional safety, convenience and comfort updates to improve efficiency out in the field. These updates — which include a redesigned hood for Puma series tractor models 150 and 165, improved lighting to create a uniformly lit work area, and Hi-eSCR2 emissions technology for longer service intervals and enhanced fuel economy — were driven by customer input that has helped operators achieve greater in-field precision while remaining comfortable in the cab.

“Every enhancement we’ve made has been driven by what producers want and need from their equipment,” Cadle said. “We’re excited to build on these design upgrades in the years to come.”



Massey Ferguson 7S Series Tractor Delivers Performance and Comfort

AGCO Corporation (NYSE:AGCO), a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision ag technology, introduces the versatile Massey Ferguson® 7S Series tractor to the North American market. The new tractor was designed to deliver comfort with straightforward dependability for high performance in a wide range of applications. Massey Ferguson will debut the MF 7S Series, along with its full S Series lineup, at booth 7823 during the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Kentucky, February 16-19.

“Whether you run livestock or row crops, Massey Ferguson understands that our farmers quit when the job is done, not when the sun goes down,” said Darren Parker, vice president of Massey Ferguson North America. “That’s why we’ve designed the straightforward and dependable MF 7S Series for all-around versatility, allowing our farmers to do more. The 7S has the power to take on the toughest jobs and the maneuverability to operate where farmers need it most with a level of comfort far beyond what they’re used to.”

Powerful Performance in the Field and in the Yard
The MF 7S Series features a 6.6-liter Tier 4 Final AGCO Power™ engine delivering up to 210 HP. These engines are some of the most cost-effective models on the market with a proven legacy of fuel efficiency and dependability.

Paired with the efficient drivelines of either the Dyna-6™ or Dyna-VT™ transmission, AGCO Power engines provide straightforward dependability and low operating costs. The Dyna-6 transmission is Massey Ferguson’s Super Eco model, offering 25 or 31 mph operating speeds with 24 forward and reverse settings for optimum fuel efficiency. The Dyna-VT transmission is the company’s field-proven CVT system, which allows producers to select an exact speed without compromising engine RPM.

Producers have the ability to work faster with the toughest implements thanks to ample low-end torque and up to eight spool valves — five rear and three front, including front linkage and Power Beyond. When working with planters and seeding implements, MF 7S Series tractors featuring the Dyna-VT transmission can be equipped with a 50 gal/min load-sensing system. This provides high flow and low engine speeds, ensuring ample power and economic output.

In addition to power, the MF 7S Series offers tremendous maneuverability. With a 16-foot, 2-inch turning radius and turning circle under 33 feet, livestock and row crop producers will appreciate the machine’s superior agility in the field or in the yard. A 113.4-inch wheelbase and the best-in-class axle suspension provides optimal traction even in the most challenging applications.

Intuitive, User-Friendly Features Increase Productivity
To help maximize efficiency in numerous applications, the MF 7S Series offers advanced technology with straightforward, user-friendly design elements.

In keeping with the overall S Series design introduced with the MF 8S Series, the MF 7S Series cab layout uses simple color coding on all controls for an intuitive operator experience. The new Datatronic™ 5 terminal, available with Deluxe trim, offers a single integrated system for all tractor technology, camera and ISOBUS. This cutting-edge system allows for quick and easy setup changes on hydraulics, transmission and engine for efficient operation. The single monitor setup allows producers to track important systems and function in one convenient place for a more user-friendly experience. Producers can customize up to five dashboards so the information they need is always at their fingertips.

Operators running with the Datatronic 5 terminal also benefit from high-tech, smart farming solutions for increased productivity and minimal waste. This includes the new MF Guide, which reduces overlap and can save up to 12% fuel in field operations. Also available are MF Section and MF Rate Control, which minimize skips and wasted product for optimal efficiency. MF TaskDoc® Pro makes it easy to share job records for increased productivity, and MF Connect allows for remote decision making for maximum profitability.

Enhanced Comfort for Long Operating Hours
"If you’re a farmer spending ten, twelve hours behind the wheel of a tractor, a comfortable working environment is a necessity," Parker said. "When we began the MF S Series project, comfort was one of the chief concerns of farmers in the field, so we looked to incorporate features that would minimize operator fatigue and provide a more comfortable working space all day long.”

The MF 7S Series offers both passive and active mechanical cab suspension to deliver a comfortable ride for long workdays. Tractors with the Deluxe trim feature a new ergonomic armrest with a customizable MultiPad lever, allowing intuitive, effortless control of all major tractor functions. A new HVAC system provides better airflow, increased defrosting performance and a 7-degree-cooler cab for more comfortable operation in demanding conditions. A streamlined hood and all-in-one aftertreatment system paired with lots of glass provides a 360-degree view, while an optional LED lighting system offers superior nighttime visibility.