Thursday July 28 Ag News

 IANR PROGRAM EXPANDS UNDERGRAD OPPORTUNITIES FOR SCIENCE, AG STUDY

What is a key way to build a stronger U.S. scientific community for the future? By expanding learning opportunities to a broad range of interested students now.

That goal is the foundation for a well-rounded science education program in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources this summer.

The 10-week program, with the theme “Expanding Opportunities in Agricultural Sciences and Crop-to-Food Innovation,” has brought together Husker scientists and private-sector experts to provide a wide-ranging curriculum to select undergraduate students from Nebraska and across the country. The project’s recruitment included historically Black colleges and universities, including those created under the 1890 Second Morrill Act, to extend opportunities to underrepresented students in science- and agriculture-related careers.

“We’ve learned how to communicate science better and how to think more scientifically and about the scientific method,” said Nathlita Karnley[GS1], a biology major at Fayetteville State University, an HBCU in North Carolina. “You really learn about science and the impact of your project. You learn how it’s going to benefit society. It also can help you regarding framing your business, if you want a business.”

Each student is mentored by an IANR faculty member. Karnley’s mentor is microbiologist Jennifer Auchtung, assistant professor of food science and technology.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture provided a $742,000 grant to the university for the program, known as Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates. IANR will host the program for five summers. Six students are participating this summer, and 46 will participate over the course of the program.

“Expanding opportunities is really important,” said Ed Cahoon, George W. Holmes Professor[GS2] of biochemistry and the project’s principal investigator. “A lot of students, especially from HBCUs and 1890 land-grant universities, may not have the opportunities that some other students do to consider research as a career.”

For some of the students, this is their first chance for focused laboratory research, for example.

The country’s scientific community can benefit by working to remove some of the barriers to pursuing science as a career, said Cahoon, director of the Center for Plant Science Innovation.

Students have had sessions on science literacy, research fundamentals and science communication skills. Faculty and graduate students are leading mentored laboratory experiences. Sessions explain research-project commercialization and entrepreneurship. Private-sector experts describe opportunities for science-focused employment in industry.

The program expands educational opportunities for “students who think they might be interested in pursuing research, going to grad school or having a career in agriculture and agricultural sciences,” said Amanda Ramer-Tait, Maxcy Professor of Agriculture and Natural Resources with Nebraska’s Department of Food Science and Technology. “I’m excited we can provide these opportunities for students to find out if it’s something that they’re passionate about.”

The sessions give students “tools to plan a path forward for themselves,” she said, “and give them the opportunity to see themselves as being successful as members of the agricultural sciences community.”

Ramer-Tait is co-principal investigator for the program, along with Paul Velander, assistant professor of biochemistry and Nebraska Extension specialist.

“You’re really building up students, both from the very fundamental level — in the wet lab space, how to think through a scientific lens, science literacy — but also mentoring them to think clearly and to pursue what their interests are,” Velander said. “The program also gives them context about science and business and entrepreneurialism.”

Students have learned about research commercialization and business dimensions from Tom Field, director of the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program at Nebraska; Josh Nichol-Caddy, director of technology commercialization with the College of Business Administration at the University of Nebraska at Omaha; and Matt Foley, program director at Invest Nebraska and program director at The Combine, an ag-tech incubator.

Each Wednesday, students have lunches in which industry experts describe science-focused professions in the private sector. At one lunch, students visited the genomics labs at the Neogen facility in Lincoln.

Even if students don’t decide to pursue graduate school in the sciences, Velander said, the program helps them see the relevance of strong scientific understanding across a wide range of professions.

In addition, Velander said, the program is helping IANR graduate students and postdoctoral researchers hone their mentoring skills as they help the students.

Husker faculty pursued the grant in part because the transdisciplinary collaboration among IANR departments and research centers provides promising opportunities for students to see the many connections among scientific disciplines. That discussion began, Ramer-Tait said, in the wake of the “many collaborations faculty have across our campus that revolve around novel innovations with food crops and the eventual incorporation of those novel crops into novel food products that could benefit human health.”

The program, with its “Crop-to-Food Innovation” focus, is a collaboration among the Center for Plant Science Innovation, Nebraska Food for Health Center, Food Innovation Center and Industrial Agricultural Products Center. Participating faculty are from the departments of biochemistry, agronomy and horticulture, food science and technology, and biological systems engineering.

The summer sessions and lab experience, Cahoon said, are “designed to give students the perspective of where their food comes from, starting from the crop going through all the stages in between — bioprocessing, formulations, nutritional evaluation — and, at the end, how a novel food product can be developed and marketed.”

Dulcie Archuleta, a biology major at Nebraska Wesleyan University, has been encouraged by her lab work, with Ramer-Tait as her mentor.

“I enjoyed my lab so much that I'm definitely considering grad school at UNL,” Archuleta said. “I really like working in my lab and would want to come back, probably, to continue my work.”

Gannon Cole, a chemistry major at West Virginia State University, an 1890 land-grant HBCU, said he intends to pursue graduate study and a science-related career.

“I know the value of research and internships that provide you with experience you otherwise would not have,” said Cole, who is mentored by Cahoon.

Such experience “can take you a long way, and that's what a lot of employers tend to look for in a person.”

The program has significant value in providing lab experience and connections with faculty and experts, said Shane Rice, a biological engineering major at North Carolina A&T State University, an HBCU. His program mentor is Ozan Ciftci, Kenneth E. Morrison Distinguished Professor of Food Engineering.

Other students in the program are Deuris Pena, a biochemistry major at Bloomfield College in New Jersey. His mentor is Thomas Clemente, Eugene W. Price Distinguished Professor of Biotechnology in the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture. WrayVauze Givens, an agricultural studies major at Lincoln University, an HBCU in Missouri, is mentored by Devin Rose, professor of food science and technology.

The wide range of subjects addressed by the sessions is important in giving students a full sense of modern scientific inquiry and practice, Raimer-Tait said.

“We're training the next generation of scientists, and we want to train them to be outstanding scientists, but we also want them to have training in entrepreneurial ideas and techniques as well as being comfortable communicating their science,” she said. “That's so important as we train the next generation.”

In sum, Cahoon said, this project provides “a great opportunity to impact the lives and careers of students and to promote participation of a greater diversity of people and ideas that are needed to solve global challenges.”



Iowa cattlemen influence policy at NCBA's Summer Business Meeting

This week, Iowa cattle industry leaders voiced our state Association's policy positions at the 2022 Cattle Industry Summer Business Meeting in Reno, Nevada. The annual meeting, hosted by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, took place July 25-27.  

On Wednesday, Iowa cattle industry leaders engaged in various policy committee meetings. Iowa cattlemen evoked a discussion on 14-day delivery in the Live Cattle Marketing Policy Committee Meeting. Iowa Cattlemen’s Association president Bob Noble presented the following remarks before National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) members:

“We believe that getting fed cattle inventory harvested in a timely manner is imperative and affects market integrity as well as producer profitability,” Noble said. “In the current framework, we hear the farmer/feeder in the Upper Midwest is challenged by leverage to negotiate terms such as consistent harvest dates. Additionally, there are subsequent consequences for the buyer if cattle are not harvested in a timely manner following purchase.”

As Iowa led the discussion, several other states joined in the discussion which prioritized fed cattle delivery. The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association offered to lead a multi-state effort to create a regulatory framework that ensures negotiated cattle are delivered within 14 days. The working group will present its plan to the NCBA membership at the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Iowa cattle industry leaders also weighed in on policy concerning the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association proposed an amendment, which supports changes to CRP law. We asked NCBA to support changes that would allow cattle to be utilized for conservation management on CRP acres. Additionally, we would like to see the program function as a working lands conservation program, emphasizing the importance of cattle on the land.



Floss Recognized For 25 Years Of Service To Council

The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) recognized Iowa’s Craig Floss for his 25 years of service to the organization at its 62nd Annual Board of Delegates Meeting in Sacramento, California, this week. Floss has been the CEO of the Iowa Corn Growers’ Association (ICGA) and the Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) since 1997.

Floss grew up on a corn, soybean and livestock farm in Baxter, Iowa. He assisted with a feeder pig operation as a teenager, which helped him finance his education at Iowa State University. He went on to work in in Chicago for Spraying Systems Co., where he was responsible for all sales outside of the United States.

When Floss received a call about the position at the ICGA, he jumped at the chance to return to his home state.

“We ended up coming to Des Moines to serve Iowa’s corn growers, about 35 minutes from the family farm,” Floss said. “I never thought I would get the chance to come back to Iowa, let alone so close to home. It has worked out very well personally and professionally.”

Floss’ involvement with the Council began immediately afterwards, joining a trade team to Malaysia, Vietnam and China that was “very impressionable” for him during his transition into Council activities.

“It really helped me understand the Council's purpose in terms of not just grain sales, but also the grain shipping and port industries as well,” Floss said.

Floss served on the Council’s Board of Directors from 2014 to 2018 as the state checkoff sector director, during which time he helped oversee the Council’s adaptation and expansion of distillers’ dried grains with solubles (DDGS) and ethanol.

“Today more than ever, it’s about food security and using ethanol to reduce pollution levels,” Floss said. “When you’re talking about improving health from a nutritional and environmental perspective, I’d say that's a great story to be part of.”

Out of the office, Floss enjoys spending time at the lake with his wife of 33 years and their three children. Floss is also a home brewer who noted he is always eager to support the barley industry by visiting international breweries to study their operations.



Deere to Move Hay & Forage Manufacturing to Mexico

John Deere announced some product production will move from Ottumwa to Mexico by the end of 2023, but simultaneously announced plans to revitalize their Ottumwa plant for the future.

The Ottumwa Courier reports that the company announced that over the next 18 months, John Deere Mower Conditioner production will transition from Ottumwa Works to the company's existing Hay and Forage mower factory in Monterrey, Mexico, 1,100 miles away.

The number of employees impacted is not yet known, the company said. The ultimate number will depend on potential reassignment opportunities once the move is made and overall production levels at the John Deere Ottumwa Works plant.

Dan Bernick, the company's public relations manager, told the Ottumwa Courier that the move consolidates the company's mowing implements to a single location with "existing production capacity and complimentary manufacturing competencies."

The Ottumwa plant also makes round balers, self-propelled windrowers and square balers. Bernick said the company will also invest in the Ottumwa plant. The company also announced Thursday plans to form a committee that will develop plans to "revitalize" the facility for the future. The company says this will include a focus on the other products it makes at the Ottumwa plant, specifically "leveraging new processes and technologies to further improve quality and productivity."

Deere doesn't anticipate the changes to majorly impact dealers, customers, suppliers, and service providers.



New Research Defines ASFV Stability in Feed Held at Three Storage Temperatures

A new report in the journal Transboundary and Emerging Diseases entitled, “Stability of African swine fever virus in feed during environmental storage,” details the length of time ASFV remains stable in feed at different storage temperatures. The robust study was conducted by a research team led by Dr. Megan Niederwerder, Associate Director of the Swine Health Information Center.

“Previous estimates of ASFV stability in feed were based on fluctuating temperature and humidity conditions consistent with global trade,” Niederwerder explained. “Novel data generated in the current study defines ASFV stability in feed at constant temperatures. This was an essential next step to guide holding-time recommendations for high-risk feed ingredients within feed mills and swine farms.”

In the published study, the stability of ASFV Georgia 2007 was determined in three feed matrices, including complete feed, soybean meal, and ground corncob particles. After ASFV contamination, feed matrices were held at three environmental temperatures (cool storage at 40°F, ambient storage at 68°F, and hot storage at 95°F) for up to 365 days. Feed samples were tested throughout the one-year period for ASFV genome detection on PCR and ASFV infectivity on cell culture and in swine bioassay.

Results demonstrate high stability of ASFV DNA in feed, with detection by PCR in almost all feed matrices throughout the conclusion of each study, including 365 days after ASFV inoculation when stored at 40°F and 68°F. Infectious ASFV was most stable in soybean meal, with the virus maintaining infectivity as determined by swine bioassay for at least 112 days at 40°F, at least 21 days at 68°F, and at least seven days at 95°F.

Additionally, feed additives were tested for their ability to reduce ASFV infectivity in complete feed stored at three environmental temperatures (40°F, 68°F, 95°F). Both medium chain fatty acid and formaldehyde-based feed additives were confirmed to be effective mitigants in tested conditions.  

Results help define the risk and mitigation of ASFV introduction through feed, confirms thermal sensitivity of ASFV in feed, and underscores the stabilizing environment of soybean meal. Providing the most comprehensive data on ASFV longevity in plant-based feed to date, this study confirms ASFV DNA can be detected in feed at least one year after contamination. Further, swine bioassays demonstrate that infectious ASFV can be present in soybean meal for several weeks after testing negative on cell culture.

“Minimum holding time recommendations were generated in this research for three environments, providing producers and feed mills key guidance to reduce ASFV risk in feed,” Niederwerder concludes. “Feed biosecurity should be considered a fundamental part of all swine biosecurity plans. This foundational study furthers our goals toward ASFV prevention and protection of US swine herd health.”

Research was supported by funding from the National Pork Board and the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research, the State of Kansas National Bio and Agro-defense Facility Fund, Purina Animal Nutrition, Cargill Animal Nutrition, and Kemin Industries.



Spring Wheat Tour Final Estimates: 49.1 Bpa for Spring Wheat, 39 Bpa for Durum

The Wheat Quality Council's 2022 Hard Spring Wheat and Durum Tour ended Thursday, July 28, in Fargo, North Dakota. After three days of scouting fields in North Dakota and Minnesota, the total weighted average yield estimate for spring wheat is 49.1 bushels per acre (bpa), while durum finished at an estimated 39 bpa.

The yield projections for both crops were the second highest for the tour since 2008. In 2015, participants estimated spring wheat and durum at 49.9 and 39.2 bpa, respectively.

This year's tour yield estimate for spring wheat is higher than USDA's initial national projection of 47 bpa, released on July 12. For durum wheat, USDA's estimate is slightly higher than the tour number at 40.3 bpa.

About 50 tour participants, mostly from the wheat, milling and baking industries and USDA officials, assessed 267 spring wheat and 35 durum fields. Two hard winter wheat fields were also sampled. The vast majority of stops were made in North Dakota, the nation's largest producer of both crops.



WRDA Up for Surprise Vote – And Passes

Today, the U.S. Senate voted overwhelmingly to pass the Water Resources Development Act by a vote of 93-1. The legislation contains a provision that would permanently adjust the cost-share ratio for Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) projects from the current 65% general revenues/35% IWTF to 75% general revenues/25%. This cost-share ratio change was the American Soybean Association’s top priority in the legislation.

Cost share allocation changes for inland waterways projects often reduce overall project costs and allow projects to be completed faster—allowing communities and industries to realize the economic benefits of a project more quickly.

In June, the House of Representatives passed its version of WRDA by a vote of 384-37. This bill did not include the same adjustment to the cost-share allocations for IWTF projects. The House and Senate will now begin conference negotiations to reconcile the differences between the two bills.

ASA will continue to support the Senate provision to adjust the cost-share allocation, as it will make significant progress in addressing the current backlog of construction projects along the inland waterways system. Completing this backlog of construction to resolve bottlenecks and slow-downs along the system will help alleviate supply chain issues. The strength of America's farm economy relies on the efficiency of its inland waterways system.




NGFA commends Senate for passing WRDA 2022  

The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) commended the Senate today for passing by 93-1 the Waterways Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022, which includes important provisions for modernizing the U.S. waterways infrastructure.

Building on the progress of WRDA 2020, Section 103 of the Senate’s WRDA 2022 amends the cost-share for inland waterway projects to 75 percent general Treasury funds and 25 percent from the Inland Waterways Trust Fund.

“This permanent cost-share change would expedite the modernization of U.S. inland waterways and bolster the ability of NGFA members to fulfill their role in the agricultural value chain to serve American farmers and domestic and global customers,” NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert said.

House and Senate lawmakers must conference and pass WRDA 2022 before it can be signed into law. NGFA also emphasized that a final WRDA bill should maintain navigational access to the lower Snake River dams (LSRDs).

“A final WRDA 2022 should neither authorize nor pave the way for the breach or removal of dams in the Columbia-Snake River System, which is the third largest grain export corridor in the world and is crucial to American agriculture’s global competitiveness,” Seyfert said.

Congress has passed a WRDA every two years since 2014. The legislation provides stakeholders with the opportunity to address important navigation, ecosystem, and flood protection issues critical to American industries and communities.



Growth Energy Cheers Biofuel Boosters in Latest Senate Budget Proposal

Growth Energy welcomed the inclusion of key biofuel provisions in the new Senate budget reconciliation proposal. Among other measures, the draft bill would allocate $500 million to infrastructure investments designed to open new markets for higher biofuel blends. It also boosts or extends tax credits for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), carbon capture, advanced biofuels, and biodiesel and renewable diesel fuels.   

“It’s very encouraging to see Senate negotiators continue to recognize key priorities we’ve pushed forward over the last year, including SAF, infrastructure, and other incentives aimed at maximizing the biofuel industry’s contributions to a low-carbon future,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “For the U.S. to meet its climate goals, we must quickly expand the volume of low-carbon biofuels available across the entire transportation sector – on the ground, in the air, and at sea. These provisions can jump-start that climate progress, while delivering more savings at the pump, greater long-term energy security, and a welcome economic boon to rural communities.  

“We know from experience that this process is far from done, and we continue to review other details of the proposal, but we look forward to continuing our work with champions in the House and Senate to ensure our priorities are reflected in any final package.”



RFA: Inflation Reduction Act Will Benefit US Ethanol Industry

Several provisions within the new Inflation Reduction Act will benefit the U.S. ethanol industry and the communities it serves, the Renewable Fuels Association noted in an initial review of the lengthy legislation.

“At long last, we are pleased to see the new Senate bill on climate change, which recognizes the important role renewable fuels like ethanol can play in a lower-carbon future for this nation,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “Specifically for ethanol producers, the legislation includes provisions that provide funding for clean fuel production, higher biofuel blend infrastructure, enhanced opportunities for ethanol to play a greater role in sustainable aviation fuel, and carbon capture, utilization and storage.”

Cooper noted that RFA members pledged last summer to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 or sooner, and that remains a priority for the organization.

“We’re committed to working with our Congressional champions on both sides of the aisle to ensure the final legislative package supports our members’ efforts to provide American families with lower-cost, lower-carbon fuels that are sourced in America’s heartland and bolster energy security,” Cooper said. “Ethanol has a great story to tell as an important part of the rural economy, creating and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs, while also reducing emissions and lowering costs to drivers.”



Statement from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack on Inflation Reduction Act

"President Biden and Congress have taken an important, historic step towards easing the burden of inflation on the American public and meeting the moment on climate. If passed, the Inflation Reduction Act will have a meaningful impact on the rural and agriculture communities we serve at The Department of Agriculture.

“Agriculture has long been at the forefront of our fight against climate change. From climate-smart agriculture, to supporting healthy forests and conservation, to tax credits, to biofuels, infrastructure and beyond, this agreement provides USDA with significant additional resources to continue to lead the charge.

“Beyond addressing climate, this bill provides us with an opportunity to make prescription drugs cheaper by allowing Medicare to negotiate lower prices, it will improve our energy security and it will create thousands of new jobs.

“It is critical that the House and Senate act quickly on this important piece of legislation so that we can get to work."  



Growth Energy to EPA: Alternative RIN Retirement Schedule Backtracks Effort to Strengthen RFS

Today, Growth Energy submitted comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in response to EPA’s proposed alternative RIN retirement schedule for small refineries. In its proposal, EPA gives all small refineries, whether they submitted a small refinery exemption (SRE) or not, until February 1, 2024, to demonstrate 2020 Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) compliance using RINS from 2021, 2022, 2023, or 2024.

“The Renewable Fuel Standard has and continues to be one of our nation’s most successful transportation decarbonization policies,” wrote Growth Energy Senior Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Chris Bliley. “The rapid investment and development of biofuels have reduced greenhouse gas emissions by decreasing our dangerous dependence on foreign oil.”

“The RFS program was meant to drive more biofuel blending not for refineries to continually delay meeting their obligations. We can only ensure the goals of the program are met by getting the program back on track with timely and predictable compliance deadlines.”

In the letter, Growth Energy calls on EPA to hold small refineries to a December 1, 2022, deadline for 2020 RVO compliance finalized under EPA’s rulemaking in February 2022.  Growth Energy also calls on EPA to eliminate the ability of small refineries to use 2023 and 2024 vintage RINs for their 2020 compliance especially as renewable volume obligations for those years have not yet been proposed or finalized.  



The Price of Sustainability: Who Pays?

The food system is moving in the right direction to become more sustainable, but one of the most significant questions to address is how the cost of new sustainability policies and practices will be funded. The issue was discussed during a recent roundtable meeting hosted by the United Soybean Board (USB) and The Center for Food Integrity (CFI). “The Price of Sustainability: Who Pays?” is part of a broader effort from USB and CFI to foster collaboration between U.S. Soy and the food industry.

The small group, that included food companies, soybean farmers and others, discussed efforts that are underway to make food production more sustainable and how the food system can collaborate to achieve its goals. Farmers and USB Directors Tim Bardole, Iowa, and Laurie Isley, Michigan, shared some of the sustainability practices they have undertaken on their farms, such as extensive soil testing, planting cover crops, strip tillage and drone scouting.

“We make these changes because they're the right thing to do. We want to be sustainable because we want to have a long-term impact. We also need to continue to be profitable,” Isley said.

Those practices add expenses to growing a crop at a time when higher fuel and fertilizer prices are squeezing profit margins, she said.

“The crops growing right now are breakeven. If something doesn’t change it’s going to be difficult to maintain some of these practices,” Bardole said.

Food companies are looking at ways to involve the entire supply chain in the effort to improve sustainability. Justin Ransom, senior director of sustainable food strategy at Tyson Foods, said trust and transparency are essential for each member of the supply chain to feel comfortable sharing information in order to understand what processes are effective in each region or supply sector.

“Currently, we have very limited transparency within the industry,” Ransom said. “How do we begin to create transparency in the supply chain, so we can say that we're raising our birds, cattle or hogs with grain that came from the most sustainable production practices and tie it all the way to the consumer?”

“A communication gulf exists between consumers and farmers,” said Hansel New, director of sustainability programs, Dairy Farmers of America. The Cooperative has launched a campaign featuring the “DFA Nerd Herd” to tell the story of dairy farmers and others who are making sustainability happen. New said the food system needs to more clearly understand the resources farmers need to achieve goals – including financial, technical and human resources.

“Farmers can't reasonably be expected to take on that full cost burden,” said New. “We also know that consumers can't take on that full cost burden, particularly vulnerable consumers who are already struggling with rising food costs. There needs to be a third way.”

Markets are changing and the food system needs to be more transparent and traceable, said Jason Clay, senior vice president of markets for World Wildlife Fund. In addition to sharing information about practices and results, those in the food system need to share experiences about the business case for sustainability and how to adapt lessons for themselves. The issue is how to think, not what to think. Adaptation is the name of the game.

“We need to look at the business model in a different way where we don't have winners and losers, but we have partners along the entire value chain to make them more resilient—everyone wins,” Clay said. “Global food supply chains are probably the most inequitable institutions on the planet because the producers have no control.”

Sustainability issues will continue to evolve, but the key, according to Isley, is understanding that there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach.

“What works for me in Michigan may not work in California. It may not work 10 miles from me,” she said. “Regardless, sustainability must be profitable for farmers so we can continue produce and allow the family farm legacy to continue.”



AGCO Reports Second Quarter Results

AGCO, a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of agricultural equipment and solutions, reported its results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2022. Net sales for the second quarter were approximately $2.9 billion, an increase of approximately 2.3% compared to the second quarter of 2021. Excluding unfavorable currency translation impacts of approximately 7.5%, net sales in the second quarter of 2022 increased approximately 9.8% compared to the second quarter of 2021. Reported net income was $2.37 per share for the second quarter of 2022, and adjusted net income (3) , which excludes restructuring expenses, was $2.38 per share. These results compare to reported net income of $3.73 per share and adjusted net income, which excludes restructuring expenses and the reversal of a valuation allowance previously established against the Company’s deferred tax assets in the United States, of $2.88 per share for the second quarter of 2021.

Net sales for the first six months of 2022 were approximately $5.6 billion, an increase of approximately 7.1% compared to the same period in 2021. Excluding unfavorable currency translation impacts of approximately 6.4%, net sales for the first six months of 2022 increased approximately 13.5% compared to the same period in 2021. For the first six months of 2022, reported net income was $4.40 per share, and adjusted net income (3) , excluding impairment charges, restructuring expenses and other related items, was $4.77 per share. These results compare to reported net income of $5.71 per share, and adjusted net income, excluding restructuring expenses and the aforementioned reversal of a valuation allowance of $4.89 per share, for the first six months of 2021.

Second Quarter Highlights
    Reported regional sales results: Europe/Middle East (“EME”) (10.3)%, North America +0.7%, South America +86.6%, Asia/Pacific/Africa (“APA”) (5.5)%
    Constant currency regional sales results: EME +3.2%, North America +1.4%, South America +77.2%, APA +1.7%
    Regional operating margin performance: EME 11.0%, North America 6.9%, South America 16.5%, APA 14.1%
    Fully operational within approximately two weeks of May 2022 cyberattack
        Q2 production, sales and net income were negatively impacted
    Paid a variable special dividend of $4.50 per share as compared to $4.00 in 2021
    Maintained full-year outlook for adjusted earnings per share

“AGCO delivered solid results in the second quarter by remaining focused on our farmer-first strategy, while effectively managing the challenges associated with the cyberattack, currency headwinds and ongoing supply chain constraints,” stated Eric Hansotia, AGCO’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our results reflect substantial price increases to combat rising material costs, higher logistics expenses, and other manufacturing inefficiencies. Farm fundamentals remain favorable and are supporting healthy order boards that remain ahead of last year’s level. Our farmer-first approach and expanding precision ag portfolio are contributing to strong end-market demand and robust growth in our margin-rich businesses.”

Mr. Hansotia continued, “Our team’s ability to execute and adapt to the challenging environment along with the robust market conditions gives us confidence in delivering our 2022 outlook, which includes record sales, margin expansion and record earnings. These results reinforce our plan to continue investing in our smart farming solutions and enhanced digital capabilities to support further growth and margin expansion.”

Wednesday July 27 Ag News

 Nebraska Receives Federal Approval for Public Assistance Following Mid-May Storm Damage

The federal government has approved Governor Pete Ricketts’ request for a federal disaster declaration related to the thunderstorms, large hail, high winds, and tornadoes that struck Nebraska on May 12, 2022.

The storm system caused power outages, broke tree limbs, and damaged small structures and agricultural equipment.  Hail from the storm ruined corn, soybean, and wheat crops.  It also created a dust storm that led to numerous vehicle crashes, and it heavily damaged the Garfield County Fairgrounds, home to Burwell’s Big Rodeo since 1921.

The federal disaster declaration authorizes public assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Antelope, Boone, Burt, Cedar, Cuming, Custer, Dixon, Garfield, Greeley, Holt, Knox, Logan, Pierce, Polk, Sherman, Thurston, Valley, Wayne, Wheeler, and York counties.

Communities are eligible to apply for assistance for “emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities.”  However, private property damages from the storm did not meet the threshold to trigger a request for individual assistance from FEMA.

The federal disaster declaration also makes funds available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.  These federal funds, available anywhere in Nebraska, can help to share the costs of public projects undertaken to decrease the risk of future damages from natural disasters.



Helena of Norfolk Cultivating Yields of Value

In the heart of eastern Nebraska lies Helena of Norfolk, a local ag retailer making a big impact. Helena of Norfolk was established in 2014, when Helena Agri-Enterprises acquired a farm and garden home center. Four years later, Helena of Norfolk moved into a new facility that included a terminal, as well as both a dry and liquid fertilizer manufacturing facility. Over the past eight years, the location strived to improve agricultural productivity for its customers in eastern Nebraska and eastern Kansas. Their efforts paid off, earning them national recognition from Helena as the 2021 Coron® Blender of the Year.

Justin Ranslem and his team at Helena of Norfolk played a substantial role in obtaining this honor. Coron­ is one of Helena’s highly manufactured products due to its extensive use as a nutritional in the region. It provides vital nitrogen to crops such as corn and soybeans with an advanced, controlled-release formulation. During his time as Coron production manager, Ranslem made quality assurance a priority and created a culture focused on providing value to the local ag community. He also shared his knowledge, inviting employees at Helena to learn the production process. Justin Uecker, a former applicator, took interest. As a visual learner, Uecker took everything up quickly, learning the ins and outs of Coron production. Although he was an applicator, Uecker spent a lot of time as Ranslem’s right-hand man, assisting where he was needed in the production facility. This mentorship made Uecker’s transition to his new role as a production manager easy.

As Uecker fills his new role as Coron production manager, he is grateful for his previous role as an applicator that prepared him for putting care into each product spread or made. As an applicator, Uecker ran dry machines spreading potash, MAP, and all other dry fertilizers in the fall and the spring. Once the corn emerged, he did side dress and top dress.

“I treated every field as if it were mine or as if I was spreading for my father because that’s how he taught me,” said Uecker. “I always try to do a good job for everybody and leave the field in better shape than when I got there.”

To produce Coron on-site in Norfolk, Uecker begins with a 25-ton blender that has an automated control system. The formulas are pre-programmed into the computer, so he chooses the correct one and begins mixing the raw ingredients. First, water is put into the blender, along with urea, followed by Coron technical and other necessary ingredients depending on formulation. To make Coron Metra, ENC® Formulation Technology is a key component to finish the formulation and gives the product additional mixing and nutrient uptake capabilities. This mixture blends until all ingredients become a homogeneous mixture. Finally, Uecker takes a sample to check specific gravity and pH levels. If all levels are correct, the Coron product is ready to be used and distributed. In addition to Coron, the plant produces the liquid starter fertilizers Nucleus® 0-0-15, Nucleus HP, Nucleus Ortho-Phos and Nutri-Link®.

To have the ability to offer these quality local products to Norfolk and surrounding ag communities, Helena has a 25-car railroad sidetrack with a dump pit in the dry facility, which holds about 15,000 tons of material. MAP, potash, AMS and lime are brought into the dry facility. Further down the track is a spot for liquid rail materials, which includes phosphoric acid for starter material in the production plant and more. A small amount of material is brought in by truck from Sioux City, Iowa, which includes gypsum and urea. These logistics are invaluable as they provide efficiency in receiving mass quantities of product in a short amount of time, as well as buying power through bulk purchases. For example, 1,000 tons of product can be brought in at a time on the rail versus 25 ton loads by truck. The dry terminal and liquid storage terminal serve as storage and distribution for the northeast Nebraska retail cluster.

Yields are not the only way Helena of Norfolk provides value. It ensures its people are an integral part in the community and beyond. Its role is to provide value-added, competitive products and prices, as well as unique offerings Helena’s own controlled-release nitrogen and starter fertilizers. They have 10 full-time employees and numerous temporary employees who have impacted the community by buying into the Helena mission and taking the utmost care of customers to maximize their yield and profits. Helena of Norfolk supports their local FFA Chapter, participates in sponsorships for local groups, and advertise in local promotional material.

When speaking about the Norfolk personnel, Craig Davidson, Helena Product Manager based in Nebraska, said, “They’re out there working with their customers, taking a look at their fields and growing systems and trying to fit the right Helena product to the right situation for their growers to help maximize yield, and to help maximize return…to add a little bit more profit to the bottom line.”

Norfolk’s dedicated people with a breadth of knowledge on unique and useful products and technical knowledge will continue to be the lifeblood of agronomic solutions in the heart of eastern Nebraska.



Cash Rents and Land Values: 2022 Nebraska Farm Real Estate Update
Presented by the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska
Presenter: Jim Jansen, Extension Agricultural Economist, UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability
Aug 4, 2022 - 12:00 PM

For the third consecutive year, the all-land average value in Nebraska increased for the year ending February 1, 2022, to an average value of $3,360 per acre — about 16% higher than the prior year, according to the final results of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s 2022 Farm Real Estate Report.

Panel members reported in 2022 that current crop prices, purchases for farm expansion, and interest rate levels as the major economic forces guiding the market value of land higher across the state. The financial health of current owners and non-farmer investor interest in land purchases as additional positive forces.

This webinar will provide an overview of 2022 land values and cash rental rates as well as trends and outlook.

Register at https://cap.unl.edu/webinars.  



OMAHA TRIBE RECEIVES $671K GRANT FOR HYDROPONIC FARMING

A first-of-its-kind grant will fund the building of three hydroponic greenhouses on the Omaha reservation.

Tribal Planner Mike Grant and Attorney General Theresa Rachel of the Omaha Tribe joined representatives from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Rural Prosperity Nebraska initiative and the U.S. Department of Agriculture earlier this month to finalize the terms of the $671,000 agriculture grant awarded to the tribe.

“The Omaha Nation Hydroponics Initiative is on the cutting edge of nontraditional agriculture, not only for tribal communities, but for all communities here in Nebraska,” said Ted Hibbeler, a Rural Prosperity Nebraska extension educator and head of the Native American Coalition, a program that facilitates community development and leadership in Native communities and connects Native traditions and cultures with nontribal communities.

Instead of growing crops in soil, hydroponic farming is an agricultural practice that grows fruits and vegetables in sand, gravel or liquid that is infused with nutrients the plants need to grow. While the plants receive their nutrients from water instead of soil, the solutions, temperature and equipment in hydroponic greenhouses are highly monitored and controlled. This results in less water usage and greater yields than traditional soil-based agriculture.

“We can grow a crop of bib lettuce in six to seven weeks from seed to finish, whereas in soil, that same crop would take eight to nine,” said Stacy Adams, an agronomy and horticulture professor who runs the hydroponics lab at Nebraska. “Hydroponic fruits often are heavier, fleshy and less tough, making them more palatable.”

Not only will the hydroponic facility greatly increase the Omaha Tribe’s sustainable food production capacity, but it will be the first and only facility of its kind in the nation on tribal land.

“We’re well aware that we want to go through the traditional methods of crop farming — corns, beans, squash — but we also want to go into the nontraditional, which is the hydroponics,” Grant said. “We want to make sure we are taking full advantage of any opportunity that comes to us to feed our people, our families and our children. The flipside of that is they learn proper nutrition.”

The $671,000 will cover the first stage of the initiative — one year to construct the three greenhouses, which will be dedicated to leafy greens, substantial vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers, and herbs. The second stage, Hibbeler said, will include “training and educating (tribal members) on how to do their own hydroponics operation, so it can serve as a hydroponics business incubator for economic development for tribal members.”

“Studies have shown that when individuals better understand where foods come from and are actively engaged with their production, healthier lifestyles result,” Adams said. “In this era of colorful food packaging that masks empty sugars, fats and carbs, experiencing food production and interacting with flavorful produce could benefit the population as a whole.”

Grant said: “It’s not going to happen overnight. It’s a process. I’m hoping that within 10 years, we’ll have a strong group of the younger generation that’s really going to take the farming operations — traditional and nontraditional — seriously and understand that there’s money involved that can develop a revenue stream so they can sustain their families. That’s what we’re going to try to do. Not try. That’s what we’re going to do.”

Hibbeler sees this award as a major success but also a steppingstone.

“What we’re doing with the Omaha tribe, we can do with the Winnebago, we can do with the Santee,” he said. “You can only talk so much about things, and then something has to be done.”



Upcoming Cattle Edge Webinar: Inflation and Economic Growth in 2022

The first half of 2022 has been marked by high inflation, rising interest rates, and market instability, leading to a higher risk of a recession.

Join Nebraska Cattlemen on Tuesday, August 2 at 7:30 p.m. CT, alongside FNBO's Chief Investment Officer, Kurt Spieler, for our Cattle Edge Webinar on Inflation and Economic Growth in 2022.

An aggressive change in Federal policy and instability in the stock and bond markets occurred in the first half of the year. High inflation on a global basis, exacerbated by geopolitical risk (the Russia/Ukraine war), has contributed to uncertainty about economic growth. Kurt Spieler and his team believe the inflation trend remains the key factor in a possible recession and will likely continue to impact financial asset returns. Find out what factors will play a role in whether inflation will moderate and may push the country into a recession.

Kurt is the Chief Investment Officer responsible for developing and implementing investment strategies for the Wealth Management division at FNBO. This includes leading the Asset Allocation, Equity, Fixed Income and Manager Research committees. In addition, he manages investment portfolios for high net worth and institutional clients.

Kurt joined First National Bank in 2005 and has over 30 years of experience in portfolio management. Previously, he was the head of international equities for Principal Global Investors, as well as president of his own asset management firm.

Kurt is a holder of the Charted Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation and is a member of the CFA Institute and the CFA Society of Colorado. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and his master’s degree from Drake University.

For any questions regarding the upcoming webinar you can email Nebraska Cattlemen's Director of Producer Education, Bonita Lederer, at blederer@necattlemen.org.  Register for the webinar at www.nebraskacattlemen.org.  



Soy-based Asphalt Investments Yield Major Enhancements to the 2022 Farm Progress Show

As the nation’s largest outdoor farm event, the annual Farm Progress Show connects thousands of farmers with companies innovating the future of agriculture. Now, a collaborative project to improve the show’s experience for visitors and vendors highlights critical checkoff investments in the research and development of soy-based technologies.

The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), in partnership with Iowa State University (ISU) and the Farm Progress Show, announce the completion of a large-scale, soy-based asphalt project at the heart of the Central Iowa Expo Grounds near Boone. Sponsored by ISA, the 42,560 square foot asphalt base showcases the versatility of homegrown soybeans and research advancements toward its’ use.

“Infrastructure and demand are two priorities for Iowa soybean farmers,” says Robb Ewoldt, ISA president and soybean farmer from Davenport. “Soy’s incorporation in asphalt enhances the product’s durability and longevity and reduces maintenance costs. It also increases demand for soybean oil, improves the product’s environmental footprint and provides the expo grounds with greater flexibility in the events it attracts and hosts.”

Site improvements that also highlight the versatility of crops produced by Iowa farmers is a win for all, says Matt Jungmann, event director of the Farm Progress Show.

“We’re creating an enhanced experience for visitors by upgrading the Varied Industries Tent area with this asphalt. Farmers and exhibitors will find this new surface creates a better environment for the show.”

The paving project is an extension of the research conducted by Iowa State University into the formulation of high-oleic soybean oil as a replacement for other expensive, highly volatile compounds commonly used in the creation of asphalt products. Using a Cold-in-Place technology, the project combines 100% recycled asphalt pavement mixed with a soy-based polymer. In total, the construction utilizes over 2,300 lbs. of soybean oil, or 215 bushels of soybeans. On average, each soybean bushel yields nearly 10.7 lbs. of oil.

Eric Cochran, a professor at ISU’s Dept. of Chemical and Biological Engineering and director of the Center for Bioplastics and Biocomposites, says the university’s research and testing of the bio-polymer product continues toward commercialization.

“After starting sponsored research projects in 2013, we had the momentum it required to go from laboratory-scale experiments to pilot-scale manufacturing conducted at ISU’s BioCentury Research Farm. We moved from that manufacturing facility into a full-scale chemical manufacturer last year.”

The Iowa Soybean Association is proud to have invested in the research and technology to make soy-based asphalt a reality, added Ewoldt.

“Featuring soy in such a prominent location will advance awareness and understanding of the product’s versatility and benefits, drive demand for homegrown soybeans and make the expo grounds more accessible for guests for years and decades to come.”



Iowa agriculture organizations call on White House to aid in fertilizer crisis

Rising fertilizer costs continue to create challenges for Iowa farmers, and three Iowa farm groups, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF), Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) and Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), called on the White House to aid in the crisis.  Today, on behalf of the Iowa groups, the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), along with National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) and American Soybean Association (ASA) delivered a letter to President Joe Biden expressing deep concern and proposed relief regarding the United States’ fertilizer price crisis.  The exponential rise in fertilizer costs are causing financial hardship for farmers producing food and retail price hikes for consumers purchasing that food.

The joint letter from leading national agriculture groups seeks executive action and a national state of emergency declaration to remove fertilizer tariffs. Inflation, supply chain disruptions, trade practices and geopolitical disputes have led to increased prices of food commodities and fuel, and farmers have seen an unsustainable jump in input costs required to grow crops and raise food.

The Biden Administration has previously acknowledged concerns impacting the economic viability of agriculture and sought remedies and solutions, and America’s leading agriculture organizations are hopeful the administration responds to the fertilizer price crisis so our farmers can effectively feed our country and world.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 7/22/2022

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending July 22, ethanol production slowed by 1.3% to 1.021 million b/d, equivalent to 42.89 million gallons daily. Production was 0.7% more than the same week last year as well as the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production volume decreased 0.7% to 1.026 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.73 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks shrank 1.0% to 23.3 million barrels. Stocks were 2.6% higher than a year ago and 5.8% above the five-year average. Inventories thinned across all regions except the Gulf Coast (PADD 3).
                                                                                                              
The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, vaulted 8.5% to a three-week high of 9.25 million b/d (141.73 bg annualized). However, demand was 0.9% less than a year ago and 2.5% below the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol rose 0.9% to 895,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.72 bg annualized. Net inputs were 3.8% less than a year ago and 3.5% below the five-year average.

There were no imports of ethanol for the tenth consecutive week. (Weekly export data for ethanol is not reported simultaneously; the latest export data is as of May 2022.)



Fertilizer Prices Keep Falling

Retail fertilizer prices continued to be mostly lower, led by urea, the third week of July 2022, according to sellers surveyed by DTN. This march to less expensive prices has been a market feature for two consecutive months now.  Once again, all but one of the eight major fertilizers are lower compared to last month, with only one fertilizer down substantially. Urea was 7% lower compared to last month. The nitrogen fertilizer had an average price of $836 per ton.

DAP had an average price of $1,007/ton, MAP $1,043/ton, 10-34-0 $894/ton, anhydrous $1,431/ton, UAN28 $598/ton and UAN28 $696/ton.  10-34-0 crossed the sub-$900/ton threshold for the first time since the fourth week of March 2022 when the price was $896/ton.  UAN28 dropped below $600/ton for the first time since the third week of January 2022, when the price was $585/ton. UAN32 dipped below the $700/ton mark for the first time since the third week of March 2022 when the price was $698/ton.

One fertilizer was slightly more expensive compared to last month. Potash had an average price of $887/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.91/lb.N, anhydrous $0.87/lb.N, UAN28 $1.07/lb.N and UAN32 $1.09/lb.N.

Most fertilizers continue to be considerably higher in prices than one year earlier. MAP is 39% more expensive, 10-34-0 is 41% higher, DAP is 45% more expensive, urea is 51% higher, potash is 63% more expensive, UAN28 is 64% higher, UAN32 is 66% more expensive and anhydrous is 95% higher compared to last year.



NCBA Backs Food and Energy Security Act

This week, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced support for the Food and Energy Security Act introduced by Sen. John Thune, R-SD. The bill would require federal regulators to disclose how proposed rules would impact food and energy prices.

"Earlier this year, the Biden administration proposed a massive climate disclosure rule that will create new reporting burdens for every farm, ranch, and small business in the country. This plan will harm producers and consumers alike,” said NCBA Environmental Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart. “NCBA is proud to support the Food and Energy Security Act because rules like the SEC's emissions disclosure mandate add a costly burden to cattle producers, rural communities, and consumers across the country."

Additionally, the bill would prohibit federal regulators from implementing any rule that would increase food or energy prices if inflation is higher than 4.5%. Since the start of 2022, inflation has consistently been over 7% with the inflation rate hitting 9.1% in June—a four decade high.  

Background
In March, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) proposed a rule that would require publicly traded companies to disclose their direct (scope 1), energy/electricity consumption (scope 2), and supply chain emissions (scope 3). By requiring the inclusion of scope 3 emissions, cattle producers who supply beef to publicly traded processors, restaurants, and retailers would be subject to these overreaching financial regulations. The SEC is a Wall Street regulator, not an environmental or agricultural agency, and their proposed climate rule goes far beyond the agency’s jurisdiction.

NCBA submitted technical comments in opposition to the rule and individual cattle producers sent over 7,400 letters to the SEC commissioners and members of Congress.

The Food and Energy Security Act would prevent the SEC from implementing their broad climate rule, protecting cattle producers from red tape while ensuring that consumers continue to have access to affordable, wholesome proteins like beef.  



NMPF, IDFA Commend Dairy Provision in Child Nutrition Bill, Will Work to Protect Access to Nutritious Dairy

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) released the following joint statement today on the House Education and Labor Committee’s passage of the Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Act, a bill which reauthorizes federal child nutrition programs:

“Dairy farmers and processors across the nation pride themselves on providing nutritious, healthful foods. Milk provides 13 essential vitamins and nutrients, including three of the four deemed to be of public health concern. Milk also is the top source of calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamin D in kids ages 2-18. The most recent Dietary Guidelines for Americans highlight the robust nutrient package milk provides and notes that school-aged children do not consume recommended amounts of dairy foods. Ensuring children and adolescents have access to nutrient-dense milk and healthful dairy foods is a top priority for NMPF, IDFA, and our members.

“Child nutrition programs are critical to ensuring kids have access to nutritious food. We thank those across our nation who work hard every day to administer these vital programs. The Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Act approved today by the House Education and Labor Committee includes provisions to provide increased access and maintain existing access to healthful dairy foods.

“In addition to expanding eligibility and increasing support to schools, the bill takes an important step in increasing students’ access to nutritious food by securing more permanently the ability for schools to serve all milk options consistent with the Dietary Guidelines. We thank Representative Joe Courtney (D-CT), who has championed the issue for years with his School Milk Nutrition Act, for his leadership in securing these healthy milk options for schools. Milk consumption increases when more varieties are available; protecting the ability for schools to choose the milk options that best serve their students is crucial. Increased milk consumption means more intake of milk’s essential nutrients. And schools that have seen a rise in milk consumption have, in many cases, seen overall school-meals participation rise as well.”
 
“The legislation also points to the importance of the nutrients milk provides for students. The Healthy Meals, Healthy Kids Act maintains the requirement that milk substitutes be nutritionally equivalent to real milk, unless the student is being offered a substitute for medical or other diet-related needs. We will continue our efforts to further strengthen nutritional equivalency requirements to protect access to milk’s essential nutrients in child nutrition programs.”



NCBA Looks to 2023 Farm Bill Following Summer Meeting

Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced its priorities for the 2023 Farm Bill based on producer input at the association’s Summer Business Meeting in Reno, Nevada.

“Our annual meetings are the cornerstone of NCBA’s grassroots policy process,” said NCBA President Don Schiefelbein, a Minnesota cattleman. “Individual producers set the course for NCBA’s advocacy work in Washington, D.C., and we have heard from many producers who value the animal health, voluntary conservation and disaster recovery programs in the last Farm Bill and look forward to improving those programs in the next Farm Bill.”
 
NCBA’s Farm Bill priorities include:
    Protecting animal health through programs that guard against the spread of foreign animal diseases such as the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank, which currently houses the Foot-and-Mouth Disease vaccine. NCBA previously advocated for this vaccine bank in the last Farm Bill and producers recognize the danger that a foreign animal disease poses to the industry and the protection this bank provides.
    Strengthening risk management programs that provide producers with added protection against weather events and price decline.
    Promoting voluntary conservation programs that provide support for producers to implement conservation practices free from government mandates.
    Supporting disaster recovery programs that help producers return to normal operations following adverse weather, attacks by predators, or extreme conditions like drought and wildfire.

Additionally, cattle producers amended and renewed existing policy on the books on issues including cattle health, federal lands, environmental policy, trade, markets, taxes, transportation, food safety, and more.

“Cattle producers have faced yet another challenging year,” said Schiefelbein. “The policies passed at this summer business meeting will help NCBA focus on resolving some of the challenges caused by extreme conditions and supply chain disruptions, ensuring the continued success of beef farmers and ranchers.”

As a grassroots organization, NCBA is proud of the century-old policy process that grants each member an equal vote in the association’s priorities. For more information on the policy process or to get involved, please visit ncba.org.



Soy Checkoff Farmer-Leaders Approve Investments to Drive Demand for U.S. Soybeans

The farmer-leaders of the United Soybean Board (USB) convened for its summer board meeting on July 26-27 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to approve a 2023 fiscal year budget of $123M for program work, starting Oct. 1, 2022. Spanning eight portfolios, these investments in research, education and promotion add value to U.S. soybeans with the goal to build resilience, differentiation and reputation. This portfolio ladders up to USB’s new vision of delivering sustainable soy solutions to every life, every day.

Investment portfolios will continue the board’s work of creating consistent, long-term domestic and global market opportunities to further demand for U.S.-grown soybeans.

“Our thinking, planning and work as a board has become a much more deliberate and idea-driven process, challenging our board members to think big. Each portfolio is farmer-directed and works together to create demand for U.S. soybeans across the entire global soy value chain,” said Ralph Lott, USB Chair and farmer from New York. “We’ve successfully shifted from project takers to portfolio makers, and the end result is more strategic thinking. The preference for U.S. soybeans grows while farmers continue to see strong ROI on their checkoff dollars.”

Investment portfolios are approved by the full board and consist of programs across Supply and Demand Action Teams driven by the three priority areas of 1) Innovation & Technology, 2) Health & Nutrition, and 3) Infrastructure & Connectivity. FY23 programs impact everything from improving production on the farm to expanding markets across animal agriculture, soyfoods and providing a renewable alternative for biofuels and nonfood uses. Some examples of these soy checkoff investments aim to:
    Enhance soybean cropping system improvement that creates opportunities to reward and support farmers and other value chain participants, including the growth of high oleic soybean production to meet demand for specialty soybeans while providing a farmer premium.
    Further soy’s role in the evolving clean energy movement, with investments that support using soybean oil as a feedstock for biodiesel and renewable diesel in marine, rail and on-road applications. Biofuels are the largest industrial use for soybean oil and require investments to reach maximum potential.
    Develop nutrition and health research that distinguishes U.S. soybean meal’s value drivers (amino acids and energy), supports animal health, builds evidence that discerns U.S. soybean meal from the competition and strengthens key industry partnerships.
    Encourage commodity partnerships to improve soil health, collaborating with National Corn Growers Association and National Pork Board to implement cover crops on 30 million acres of soybeans and corn by 2030, focused on meeting sustainability goals while improving farmer productivity.
    Grow exports in more than 80 countries through the U.S. Soybean Export Council’s strategy to differentiate U.S. soybeans in the global marketplace. USB also partners with the U.S. Meat Export Federation and the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council to promote exports of soy-fed meat, as well as the American Soybean Association’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health to create long-term demand for U.S. soybeans in developing and emerging markets and improve food security.
    Improve best management practices through partnerships that lead to faster, real-time dissemination of pest and disease research findings, such as developing a pesticide and fungicide calculation tool that helps farmers determine regional application thresholds to maximize yield potential.
    Increase focus on fertilizers and biologicals that support farmers and farming system resilience in an uncertain crop input market environment.
    Reach key audiences to elevate the reputation of U.S. soybeans, expanding trust with consumers and helping them develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for how U.S. soybean farmers can deliver sustainable solutions for more than 1,000 renewable products on the market.

“Over the past year, we’ve changed the way we make investment decisions. The new Value Alignment Committee gives farmer-leaders more input in the types of programs the checkoff supports. Today marks the culmination of that new process,” said Meagan Kaiser, USB Vice Chair and farmer from Missouri. “This is a new, exciting direction, and we couldn’t be successful without our state and national farmer volunteers and checkoff partners who work diligently on behalf of the 515,000 U.S. soybean farmers. I also want to extend thanks to the Michigan Soybean Committee for hosting this memorable meeting and showcasing the diversity of Michigan agriculture.”



Deadline Extended and More Pre-Filled Forms For 2020 and 2021 Disasters on the Way

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that it will indefinitely extend the deadline for producers to return the pre-filled applications for Phase One of the Emergency Relief Program (ERP).  A new deadline will be announced after the last Phase One applications are mailed and provide at least 30 days following the mailing.  

Continuing to build on the initial mailing of pre-filled applications in May, the Department will continue using existing information in USDA and crop insurance files to send additional pre-filled applications starting this week for potentially eligible Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) participants. Once applications from eligible NAP producers are returned, these producers are expected to receive about $105 million in ERP payments for eligible losses from 2020 and 2021 disasters.

USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is now mailing pre-filled applications to NAP producers through ERP to offset crop yield and value losses. To receive a relief payment, producers should complete and return the applications by announced deadlines.  

Producers are expected to receive assistance direct deposited into their bank account within three business days after they sign and return the prefilled application to the FSA county office and the county offices enters the application into the system.

While most crop insurance customers that may be eligible for ERP Phase One received the pre-filed applications in May, there are some who should expect to receive a form in August including:
-    Producers who had an eligible loss in 2020 that had been recorded in the crop insurance records as a 2019 loss (e.g., prevented planting claims); and
-    Producers with policies that required additional information before being able to calculate an indemnity for 2021 losses (producers with 2020 losses would have already received that application).  Policies that required additional information include Supplemental Coverage Option (SCO), Enhanced Coverage Option (ECO), Stacked Income Protection Plan (STAX), Margin Protection Plan (MP) or Area Risk Protection Insurance (ARPI).

Producers without risk management coverage through crop insurance or NAP and those with shallow losses may be covered by the forthcoming Phase Two of ERP.   

“Catastrophic natural disaster events in 2020 and 2021 decimated crops, livestock and farm infrastructure from coast to coast, making it critically important to provide assistance quickly and reduce the paperwork burden on these farmers and ranchers recovering from disaster,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “I was in North Dakota a few weeks ago and received feedback on how well the streamlined livestock and crop disaster programs are working for our producers and front-line employees.  Like any new process, there are some kinks to work out, but we are addressing them and will use the streamlined process to keep the ‘red tape’ to a minimum.”

USDA estimates that Phase One ERP benefits will reach more than 5,200 producers with NAP coverage for eligible 2020 and 2021 crop losses. This emergency relief complements ERP assistance recently provided to more than 162,000 producers who had received crop insurance indemnities for qualifying losses. Nearly 13,000 additional crop insurance customers are pre-filled applications in August to cover eligible 2020 losses described above and for producers with more complex policies where indemnities could not be calculated for 2021 previously.   

ERP and the previously announced Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) are funded by the Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act, which President Biden signed into law in 2021. The law provided $10 billion to help agricultural producers impacted by wildfires, droughts, hurricanes, winter storms and other eligible disasters experienced during calendar years 2020 and 2021. Overall, USDA has already quickly disbursed over $6 billion dollars under ERP and ELRP with reduced paperwork for the producer and field offices.  



McKalip Hearing Slated for July 28

President Biden’s nominee to fill an important ag position within the Office of the United States Trade Representative will have his day in front of senators later this week. Doug McKalip, who in June received the president’s nomination to be the chief ag negotiator, will appear in front of the Senate Finance Committee on July 28.

McKalip’s nomination received approval from multiple industry organizations. During the confirmation hearing, senators will question McKalip and make statements about his qualifications. These questions could be state-specific or include broader issues.

McKalip will also have an opportunity to present his plan or President Biden’s ideas for his position as chief ag negotiator.

Once both sides have had an opportunity to speak, the committee can conduct a voice vote where a simple majority is enough to secure the confirmation. Or, senators can come to a unanimous consent agreement where a vote isn’t necessary, and McKalip would be confirmed.

If the senate rejects McKalip’s nomination, President Biden would have to submit another name.

McKalip is the second person to receive the president’s chief ag negotiator nomination. President Biden nominated Elaine Trevino, former president of the Almond Alliance of California and a former deputy secretary of the California Department of Agriculture and Food, for the position in September 2021. Following months of delays, Trevino withdrew her nomination and has since taken a position within the Biden administration focusing on ag supply chain issues.



Council’s Summer Meeting Continues, Focused On Global Trade Successes

The second day of the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) 62nd Annual Board of Delegates meeting in Sacramento, California, highlighted Council program successes, offered insight into the coming Farm Bill and began a refresh of the Council’s strategic plan.

During the morning general session, USGC Vice President, Cary Sifferath gave an around-the-world update on Council activities in markets in which the Council has a presence.

“The Council has done a great job of establishing connections and relationships with industries and governments abroad,” Sifferath said. “As the industries have changed their focus, the Council continues to adapt with them on behalf of developing markets, enabling trade and improving lives.”

Following Sifferath, attendees heard from selected directors and managers who shared Council success stories from around the globe.

Emily Byron, USGC director of global programs, shared China’s sorghum purchases and Indonesia’s purchases of DDGS for the poultry industry. USGC manager of global ethanol market development, Stella Qian, discussed the United Kingdom’s move to implement E10 ethanol standard to develop a net zero transportation sector. Katy Wyatt, USGC manager of global strategies reviewed how sorghum and DDGS feeding trials in Africa are changing the feed industries there. USGC marketing director for the Latin America region, Ana Ballesteros, shared how implementing an extensive manufacturing training course has led to the modernization of Columbia’s feed industry. Sadie Marks, USGC manager of global programs, discussed how the Council’s work with a major Mexican brewer has increased barley sales and encouraged future growth.

The morning session also featured National Corn Growers Association CEO, Jon Doggett, who discussed the outlook for the coming Farm Bill that houses the Market Access Program (MAP) and the Foreign Market Development Program (FMD), both of which help fund the Council’s work overseas.

In the afternoon, led by USGC Director of Strategic Initiatives and Engagement Melissa Kessler, attendees began work on USGC’s strategic plan, a guiding document that helps direct the Council’s actions over the next few years. Attendees discussed the priorities of each stakeholder group and how the plan should evolve over time.

The organization also held member sessions including agribusiness, general farm organizations, barley, corn and sorghum sectors that took up issues of importance about the commodities the Council represents.

The meeting concludes tomorrow with attendees participating in the Board of Delegates meeting where they will elect USGC officers and Advisory Team (A-Team) and sector leaders will offer their recommendations and reports regarding the future direction of the Council.

More from the meeting is available on social media using the hashtag #Grains22 or through the website: www.grains.org/event/sacramento.



Indiana Farmer Elected U.S. Grains Council Chairman During Annual Summer Meeting

The delegates of the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), elected Josh Miller, a farmer from Indiana representing the Indiana Corn Marketing Council, as chairman of its Board of Directors at its 62nd Annual Board of Delegates Meeting held in Sacramento, California.

“It is important to me to learn as much as I possibly can – not just about how to do the best job I can on the farm, but also to learn as much as I can about how what I do affects the world as a whole – how my efforts create global ripple effects that help sustain those who need what I grow the most,” Miller said during his incoming remarks on Wednesday.

Miller is a fifth-generation farmer from Anderson, Indiana, and produces corn and soybeans, primarily as a 100 percent no-till row crop operation. He is a member of the Indiana Corn Marketing Council and was elected to the Council’s officer rotation in 2019. Previously, Miller was a finance officer for Lockheed Martin, a contract officer for the U.S. government and a United States Marine Corps Staff Sergeant. He has been awarded the Marine Corps Achievement Medal and the 2018 River Friendly Farmer Award.

In addition to Miller, the delegates elected Verity Ulibarri of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program as secretary-treasurer. Gail Lierer of the Ohio Corn Marketing Program and Curt Mether and Mark Mueller of the Iowa Corn Growers Association were also elected as at-large directors.

The USGC Board of Directors now includes:
• Joshua Miller, Indiana Corn Marketing Council: Chairman
• Brent Boydston, Bayer Crop Science: Vice Chairman
• Verity Ulibarri, United Sorghum Checkoff Program: Secretary-Treasurer
• Chad Willis, Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council: Past Chairman
• Gail Lierer, Ohio Corn Marketing Program: At-Large Director
• Curt Mether, Iowa Corn Growers Association: At-Large Director
• Mark Mueller, Iowa Corn Growers Association: At-Large Director
• Jay Fischer, Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, At-Large Director
• Greg Hibner, J.D. Heiskell Hawkeye Gold: Agribusiness Sector Director
• Craig Willis, Eco-Energy: Agribusiness Ethanol and Co-Products Sector Director
• Mark Wilson, Illinois Corn Marketing Board: Corn Sector Director
• Jim Massey, United Sorghum Checkoff Program: Sorghum Sector Director
• Jean Henning, North Dakota Corn Utilization Council: State Checkoff Sector Director
• Nathan Boll, North Dakota Barley Council: Barley Sector Director
• Ryan LeGrand, U.S. Grains Council: President and CEO

Miller shared his goals for the year and his theme – Live the Mission – during his incoming remarks.

“We all have a vested interest in U.S. grains and we each have a commitment to make this industry work together – and when we live the Council’s mission, we are the best we can be,” Miller said.

Earlier in the week, the Council’s meeting included a presentation on the developing situation in Ukraine from Dr. Yuval Weber of the Brute Krulak Center for Innovation and Future Warfare at Marine Corps University, grain trade success stories from the Council’s various overseas markets and a peek into the upcoming Farm Bill.

Tuesday July 26 Ag News

STUDY SHOWS NEBRASKA’S ETHANOL INDUSTRY CONTINUES TO EXPAND

The Nebraska ethanol industry produced over 2.25 billion gallons in 2019, resulting in a value of production for ethanol and co-products of greater than $4.04 billion, according to a new University of Nebraska–Lincoln study estimating the industry’s impact in 2018 and 2019. The overall economic impact of the Nebraska ethanol industry is over $4.5 billion.

Gallons produced and value of production in 2019 both increased over 2017, the year of the previous report, when the state produced over 2.07 billion gallons of ethanol, valued at $3.76 billion.

“Nebraska’s ethanol industry remains an important market in Nebraska, trailing only corn and cattle,” said Kate Brooks, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics and a co-author of the study. “While the industry experienced weakened ethanol prices in 2018 and 2019, it has shown resilience through continued expansion in total capacity and diversification of co-products.”

According to the study, Nebraska continues to rank as the second-largest ethanol-producing state in the nation. The overall value of ethanol and ethanol co-products averages 64% of corn production, 33% of cattle production and 131% of soybean production, making ethanol the third-largest agricultural industry in the state.

From 2010 to 2014, the ethanol industry employed 1,301 full-time employees, rising to 1,453 employees from 2015-2017. These jobs led to primary employee income of $71 million from 2010 to 2014 and $97 million from 2015 to 2017. In 2018 and 2019, the industry employed 1,460 full-time equivalents, leading to a labor income of $125 million and $13 million in indirect business taxes. Proprietors’ income tells a different story, as producer income averaged $34 million from 2010 to 2014 and only $11 million annually from 2015 to 2017, which were primarily caused by lower prices. The estimated proprietors’ income for 2018 to 2019 was $12 million.

“Comparing the two most recent reports shows a trend toward stability in ethanol production,” Brooks said, noting that the latest data shows growth in ethanol co-product markets, for products like dried, wet and modified distillers’ grains and corn oil. The industry continues to expand beyond these traditional co-products, taking advantage of new market opportunities.

Almost all of Nebraska’s ethanol and about half the state’s dried distillers’ grain and corn oil production are exported, meaning most production results in a net positive impact for the state. The sales outside of Nebraska represent a direct economic impact, bringing new money into Nebraska’s economy.

The study’s results also suggest a positive impact on local corn cash prices, with an average increase of about 21.3 cents per bushel in the immediate areas near ethanol production facilities. A grower near an ethanol facility producing 220 bushels of corn per acre could receive, on average, an additional $46.86 per acre. Producers farther from ethanol plants face higher transportation costs and would net a smaller amount.

The report was produced by the Department of Agricultural Economics at Nebraska, in partnership with the Nebraska Ethanol Board. It is available at https://agecon.unl.edu/ethanolimpact.



SUMMER HEAT AND FORAGE GROWTH
– Jerry Volesky, NE Extension Forage & Range Specialist
 
As most of the state is experiencing unusually hot temperatures this summer, we need to consider how these temperatures affect our pasture and forage plants.
 
The two primary plant classifications are warm-season and cool-season and this is based on basic plant physiology and their specific photosynthetic pathway.  Practically speaking, and as their names suggest, every plant species has a specific temperature range in which it maintains growth.
 
When it gets hot, 90 plus degrees, cool-season plants such as bromegrass, orchardgrass, fescues, needlegrasses, and wheatgrasses all struggle and will have a very slow growth rate, even if there is plenty of moisture.  With the dry conditions this summer, these cool-season grasses have likely completely stop growth and have gone into a summer dormant state.
 
Warm-season grasses are just the opposite.  Millet, sudangrass, sorghums, and our native bluestems, gramas, switchgrass, and other warm-season grasses thrive when the temperature is around 90 degrees.  Their metabolism runs at peak efficiency when it is hot so they grow rapidly while maintaining reasonable forage quality and good root growth.  With drought conditions, also be aware of the potential for the seeded summer annual grasses to accumulate nitrates.
 
As you graze or hay, be aware of the stress weather is putting on your forage.  When it’s too hot, allow plants a longer recovery period before the next grazing.  And don’t expect high feed values or good animal gains when the nutritional goodies are burned right out of the plants.
 
Proper expectations and management adjustments can limit the stress from hot weather.   



Ricketts Invites Nebraskans to Register for the 2022 Ag & Economic Development Summit

Governor Pete Ricketts, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED), and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) encourage Nebraskans to register for the Governor’s Ag and Economic Development Summit on Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at the Younes Conference Center in Kearney.

Registration for the event is now open at govsummit.nebraska.gov.  U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Daniel J. Kritenbrink, will be the keynote speaker.

“Nebraska is successfully creating jobs and attracting investment,” said Gov. Ricketts.  “This year’s Summit will convene leaders from across the state to discuss how to build on this positive momentum.  Attending the Summit is a great way to make connections with fellow Nebraskans who play key roles in our state’s growth.  We look forward to hosting Assistant Secretary of State Kritenbrink and hearing his insights on opportunities to grow Nebraska through international trade.”

As the state’s premier economic development forum, the Summit includes an agricultural focus, with co-sponsor NDA hosting a number of industry-related sessions.  Discussion tracks will include overcoming supply chain challenges, growing ag-related exports, supporting small businesses, workforce development, and much more.

“Through the years, Nebraskans working in agriculture have built a reputation for producing world-class crops, livestock, feed, fuel, equipment, and ag technology,” said NDA Director Steve Wellman.  “The Governor’s Ag and Economic Development Summit gives producers and agri-business leaders in Nebraska an opportunity to facilitate new partnerships and discuss how to drive economic growth in our state’s number one industry.”

Assistant Secretary of State Kritenbrink is scheduled to provide remarks during lunch.  Kritenbrink grew up on a farm near Ashland and graduated from the University of Nebraska-Kearney.  He served as U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam from 2017 to 2021 after being appointed by President Donald Trump.

“We are excited to have Assistant Secretary of State Kritenbrink join us this year to share his insights on opportunities to grow Nebraska’s brand internationally,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins.  “We hope everyone who shares our mutual vision to grow Nebraska will join Governor Ricketts and us in Kearney for this year’s Summit.”  

The Summit will officially kick off on the evening of Tuesday, August 9th, with a reception and banquet hosted by the Nebraska Diplomats and NetChoice.  During that event, numerous Diplomats and Nebraska businesses will be recognized for their contributions to the state’s economic success over the previous year.

Registration for the Diplomat Banquet and Summit can be accessed at govsummit.nebraska.gov.  A full Summit agenda is also available through the website.  For questions, contact Lori Shaal at lori.shaal@nebraska.gov or 402-471-3780.



Nebraska soybean farmer participates in Indonesia conference

The future of soy in Southeast Asia is a hot topic and was the focus of the recent annual Asia Soy Excellence and Protein Summit held June 21-22 in Bali, Indonesia held and organized by USSEC and U.S. Soy industry partners.

Stakeholders from regional soy food and beverage industries convened for the annual 2-day event along with senior food science and nutrition managers, leaders in R&D and quality assurance, health professionals, and university and government officials.

Dialogues and presentations around the sustainable practices of U.S. Soy helped differentiate and elevate the benefits of U.S. Soy in food use and show its potential to help bring a lower carbon footprint for soy in the Southeast Asia region. Nearly 300 participants joined either in person or virtually to learn about U.S. food soybean production and perspectives on trends, forecasts, policy, trade and sustainability.

Greg Greving, a soybean farmer from Chapman, Nebraska, was on hand for the event and noted the value of spending time together with customers in person.

“Meetings with buyers are vital to our industry,” Greving said. “We need to have the contact for the contracts to follow. Getting together face-to-face is like me performing maintenance on my tractor. You have to take care of it for performance and longevity.”

Southeast Asia is an important trade partner for Nebraska farmers, with over $781 million worth of Nebraska soybean exports sold to Indonesia alone over the past 10 years. At the conference, product and ingredient innovation was a key topic of discussion, covering new plant-based beverages, soy in both animal and plant-based meats, and bioprocesses, cultured and alternative protein development.

“The presentation and discussion started from traditional soy products, which is rooted to our culture, up to the sophisticated innovative products such as Ominimeat and cultivated protein or lab grown meat,” said Yunawati Gandasasmita, Head of Corporate Regulatory Affairs for Nutrition & Beverage at PT Kalbe Farma.

Attendees were given a demo of The Specialty U.S. Soy Database, which features nearly 300 soybean varieties, qualitative attributes and information on how to source U.S. identity preserved soybeans and supplier contact information.

Sustainability was an important subject, with discussions around how U.S. Soy can be part of a more sustainable food system in Southeast Asia. Presentations covered everything from how soy can help accomplish The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to food security and sustainability challenges to soy’s role in new agri-food innovations.

The event concluded with “Taste Tempe-tion,” a hands-on Tempe making and tasting session that demonstrated soy’s use in the popular Indonesian food.  

 “The chefs’ recipes demonstrated how delicious and versatile soy protein is,” said Linda Funk, President of Flavorful Insight, USA.



LONG-TIME AG EDUCATOR, RECEIVES NAYC’S HIGHEST HONOR
Scholarships awarded to youth

Craig Frederick of Lincoln, a retired agricultural educator and FFA advisor, was recently selected by Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council (NAYC) members to receive the Council’s highest honor, the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute’s (NAYI) Award of Merit. Frederick’s award was presented during NAYI’s annual State Dinner on July 13. The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) oversees NAYC and NAYI.

“As a long-time ag educator and FFA advisor, Craig mentored, encouraged and inspired students to learn about agriculture and participate in local, state and national ag-related events and competitions,” said NAYC Advisor Christin Kamm. “We are grateful that Craig shared his dedication and passion for agriculture with his students so that they could become valued members of the ag community as well.”

Frederick has extensive knowledge in plant and animal science, horticultural and natural resources. He earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in agriculture education from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Frederick started his 34-year teaching career at Lewiston Consolidated Schools. Throughout his career, Frederick taught in Seward, Grand Island and Cairo, Nebraska. The Nebraska Agricultural Educators Association named Frederick Teacher/Mentor of the Year in 2020. Frederick retired in 2021 after spending 8 years as an ag educator at Seward Public Schools.

In addition to teaching, Frederick exceled in ag education on the state level as Director of Agriculture Education and State FFA Advisor for the Nebraska Department of Education for 6 years. Frederick also served for 5 years as a program success specialist for the National FFA in Indianapolis, Indiana, and he has served on Nebraska’s FFA Foundation Board.

NAYI is a week-long event for high school juniors and seniors interested in agriculture. NAYI includes motivational speakers, ag education, networking with peers and industry leaders, leadership experience and information on ag careers. In its 51st year this year, NAYI is the longest running program of its kind in the nation.

“Craig has always encouraged students to participate in NAYI making him a huge supporter of the program and of youth pursuing their passions in the agricultural field,” said Kamm. “His extensive knowledge and his passion for teaching others will impact Nebraska agriculture for years to come.”

Scholarships Awarded to Youth
During NAYI’s State Dinner, the NAYC Alumni Board members presented a $1,000 scholarship to a deserving Council member for work and dedication to the agriculture industry. This year’s $1,000 scholarship award went to Cole Kalkowski of Omaha, for his work throughout the year of promoting and sharing information about agriculture with Nebraska youth.

Kalkowski will be a senior at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln this fall majoring in mechanical engineering with a minor in entrepreneurship. Kalkowski has a background in media journalism and is often seen behind a camera recording stories about agriculture and bringing those stories to life.

During the scholarship presentation, NAYC Alum Amanda Tupper thanked Kalkowski for giving generously of his time and talents to Nebraska agriculture.

“Cole goes above and beyond in everything he does, and we’re fortunate to have him here in Nebraska leading the way in agriculture.”

Additionally, scholarships in the amount of $600 each were awarded to two high school seniors who participated in NAYI this year as returning delegates. Returning delegates have additional responsibilities during NAYI designed to enhance leadership abilities and organizational skills. The scholarships were presented by the University of Nebraska – Lincoln College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CASNR).

The two scholarship recipients are Jenna Knake from Avoca and Levi Schiller from Scribner, who both plan to attend the University of Nebraska this fall and be a part of CASNR. NAYI is made possible through generous donations from agricultural businesses, commodity groups and industry organizations. To learn more about NAYC or NAYI, visit https://nda.nebraska.gov/nayi/.



IDALS Urges Iowans to be on the Lookout for Spotted Lanternflies

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship asks Iowans to be on the lookout for spotted lanternfly insects. The colorful but invasive and destructive insect is native to China, India, and Vietnam, and was accidentally introduced into Pennsylvania in 2014. It has since been confirmed in eleven states and often spreads by the movement of infested material or items containing spotted lanternfly egg masses. If allowed to spread further in the United States, this pest could seriously impact the country’s grape, orchard, nursery, and logging industries.

A community member notified the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship of the presence of two immature spotted lanternflies in Dallas County earlier this month. Federal identification confirmed the sample as a spotted lanternfly. Surveys of the immediate area have not resulted in signs of an ongoing infestation and entomologists hope the insects recently hitchhiked into the area.

“Spotted lanternfly nymphs and adults are colorful, and if you spot one, please report it to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship right away. We appreciate this community member letting us know about its presence in our state and we hope other Iowans will keep an eye out as we want to contain the spread of this destructive pest,” said State Entomologist Robin Pruisner. “At this time of year, we expect to find the eye-catching nymphs, which can be black and white, or red, black, and white. It is ironic is that this invasive insect prefers to feed on the tree-of-heaven, another invasive species.”

Spotted lanternfly adults and nymphs frequently gather in large numbers on host plants. They are easiest to spot at dusk or at night as they migrate up and down the trunk of the plant. During the day, they tend to cluster near the base of the plant if there is adequate cover or in the canopy, making them more difficult to see.

It feeds on a wide range of fruit, ornamental, and woody trees, with tree-of-heaven being one of the preferred hosts. Plants preferred include grapes and hops, and the following trees: almond, apple, apricot, cherry, maple, nectarine, oak, peach, pine, plum, poplar, sycamore, tree-of-heaven, walnut, and willow. Infested plants may ooze or weep and have a fermented odor. A buildup of sticky honeydew on plants or the ground underneath the plants may be present. A sooty mold may also occur on infested plants and fruit. The sucking of sap from plants can reduce the products of photosynthesis, thereby weakening the plant and eventually contributing to the plant’s death.

If you think you have found a spotted lanternfly, please call the Entomology and Plant Science Bureau at 515-725-1470 or e-mail Entomology@IowaAgriculture.gov. You may also contact your local county Iowa State University Extension Office.



USDA Begins Issuing Payments for Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is increasing the amount of funding available for the Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program (SMHPP) and expects to issue approximately $62.8 million in pandemic assistance payments to hog producers starting this week. SMHPP assists eligible producers who sold hogs through a spot market sale from April 16, 2020, through Sept. 1, 2020. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) accepted SMHPP applications through April 29, 2022.

“In order to provide more targeted support to hog producers affected by the pandemic, FSA was able to increase funding for SMHPP to provide full payments to producers instead of applying a payment factor,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “We are pleased to be able to provide more equitable opportunities for hog producers who were hard-hit by the pandemic.”

SMHPP Payments
SMHPP payments will be calculated by multiplying the number of head of eligible hogs, not to exceed 10,000 head, by the payment rate of $54 per head.

FSA originally planned to apply a payment factor if calculated payments exceeded the allocated $50 million in pandemic assistance funds for SMHPP. Payments are not expected to be factored due to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack’s decision to increase funding enabling producers to receive 100% of the calculated SMHPP payment.    

There is no per person or legal entity payment limitation on SMHPP payments.

Statement by Terry Wolters, NPPC president and owner of Stoney Creek Farms in Pipestone, Minnesota
“We appreciate FSA’s commitment to providing assistance to those pork producers hit hard by the economic disruptions caused by the pandemic. Producers forced into spot market hog sales are still challenged by the market disruptions of COVID-19, and these funds will contribute to the ongoing recovery of the U.S. pork industry.”



Producer Promotes U.S. Pork in Britain

Last month, Joe Dykhuis, co-owner of Dykhuis Farms in Michigan, and Courtney Knupp, NPB’s VP of international market development, traveled to the United Kingdom to participate in a cross-commodity USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission.

Here’s what they accomplished:
    Promoted the high quality of U.S. pork to importers
    Explored pork at retail locations, including Costco (Did you know U.S. pork supplies all pork loins to 30 U.K. Costco locations?)
    Gathered feedback to refine U.S. pork’s sustainability messaging, a key demand among consumers in the U.K. and other markets
     
The goal of this type of in-market presence is to educate importers on U.S. pork’s sustainability commitment. It’s also a chance to collect feedback that helps NPB’s strategic partners, like U.S. Meat Export Federation, differentiate U.S. pork in a diverse global protein market.

International market development is a key investment for the pork industry. In 2021, more than $62 for every hog sold came from exports.

“We’ve been able to get value out of parts of pigs we don’t eat in the U.S.,” says Knupp. “Our job is to sell each part of the pig every day at the highest value, whether that customer is domestic or international.”



ICGA Thanks Senators Grassley and Ernst for Introducing Next Generation Fuels Act

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) thanks Senator Chuck Grassley and Senator Joni Ernst for introducing the Next Generations Fuels Act. This bipartisan legislation, a companion bill to H.R. 5089, reduces the carbon intensity of liquid fuels and passenger vehicles through increased use of higher ethanol blends. By providing more availability at the pump, consumers will have the choice of a high-octane, low-carbon, low-priced fuel option that they deserve.

By increasing demand for corn and biofuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality and human health and increasing fuel efficiency, the Next Generation Fuels Act is a prime example of the impact corn farmers can contribute toward addressing climate change and decarbonizing transportation. This legislation, once enacted, would increase ethanol demand by over 5 billion gallons per year, which would utilize 1.7 billion bushels of additional corn. This bill would also lead to a reduction of 111.1 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually, which is the equivalent of removing 23.7 million cars from the road every year.

Additionally, this bill provides automakers with more options to meet increasingly stringent fuel economy and greenhouse gas emission standards by utilizing ethanol blends up to 30% in vehicles designed and warranted for these fuels. The Next Generation Fuels Act is co-sponsored by Senator Chuck Grassley, R-IA, Senator Joni Ernst, R-IA, Amy Klobuchar, D-MN and Senator Tammy Duckworth, D-IL. Iowa Corn would also like to thank Iowa’s entire congressional delegation for their work, support and effort in moving this bill forward.

Below is a statement from Iowa Corn Growers Association President, Lance Lillibridge:

“Through Senator Chuck Grassley and Senator Joni Ernst’s efforts to move forward the Next Generation Fuels Act, we will be able to provide drivers with greater access to more affordable, home-grown, clean-burning fuel. This bipartisan bill enables corn growers to utilize expanded markets and provides a much-needed climate solution. Outdated legislative and regulatory barriers have stood in the way of higher ethanol blends for far too long and this bill provides the change we wish to see in setting a new low-carbon octane standard.”



National Corn Growers Association Applauds Senate Introduction of Next Generation Fuels Act

In a step forward for energy security and the nation’s consumers, Senator Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), with the support of Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), today introduced the Next Generation Fuels Act in the U.S. Senate.

“The Next Generation Fuels Act would lower fuel prices, reduce carbon emissions, and shore-up America’s energy security for the long run,” said Iowa farmer and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Chris Edgington. “We are very grateful to Sens. Grassley, Klobuchar, Ernst and Duckworth for their leadership on this important issue.”

The bill would establish a clean, high-octane standard for gasoline and require that sources of additional octane result in at least 40% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, allowing automakers to significantly improve vehicle fuel efficiency through advanced engines.

Because corn growers have a vested interest in the future of transportation, NCGA began laying the groundwork and advocating for this policy several years ago, and the Next Generation Fuels Act, H.R. 5089, has received bipartisan support in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“We have worked closely with members of the House and Senate to secure bipartisan support for this legislation,” Edgington said. “In recent months, consumers have been reminded that we need choices at the pump. The Next Generation Fuels Act would diversify our fuel supply and take greater advantage of low-cost, low-emission, and high-efficiency ethanol to give drivers affordable choices as we decarbonize and clean up transportation.”

As gas prices climbed to all-time highs, NCGA has reminded policymakers that ethanol has been priced about $1 per gallon less than unblended gasoline at wholesale, and drivers are saving 30 to 40 cents or more per gallon where retailers offer E15.

In late spring, the Biden administration acted to preserve access to higher blends of ethanol through the summer, ensuring consumers continue to have the low-cost, low-emission choice of E15 at the pump. The Next Generation Fuels Act would build on this progress by advancing higher ethanol blends and advanced vehicles that deliver greater emission reductions, cost savings and consumer choice.



Next Generation Fuels Act Introduced in the Senate

Today, Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa introduced the Next Generation Fuels Act in the United States Senate, which increases gasoline octane to a minimum standard through low-carbon, renewable fuels. Farmers and consumers stand to gain from the economic and environmental benefits brought about by this legislation.

“NFU is pleased to see further momentum on the Next Generation Fuels Act, through the introduction of companion legislation in the Senate by Senators Grassley, Klobuchar, Ernst, and Duckworth.  This important legislation supports usage of higher-level blends of ethanol, which NFU has long supported. Higher-level blends of ethanol, like E30, is good for farmers, good for the planet, and good for the pocketbooks of Americans,” said NFU President Rob Larew.

NFU has been a strong supporter of higher-level blends of ethanol and welcomes the introduction of this legislation in the Senate. NFU supported this legislation in August 2021 when it was introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Cheri Bustos of Illinois.



Growth Energy Applauds Introduction of Grassley, Klobuchar Bill on High-Octane, Low-Carbon Fuels, Urges Senate Passage

Growth Energy today praised the introduction of legislation by U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) that would unleash access to higher-octane, lower-emission, and lower-cost fuels for American drivers.

“The Next Generation Fuels Act represents a clear roadmap for delivering cleaner, more affordable options at the pump for American drivers,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “With a natural octane of 113, ethanol is the only high-performance, renewable fuel ready to help decarbonize cars on the road today – and with the added benefit of offering consumers significant savings at the pump. We applaud Senators Grassley, Klobuchar, Ernst, and Duckworth for working to promote the use of high-octane, lower-carbon biofuel blends that hold enormous potential for rural America’s role in clean energy production and lowering prices at the pump. We urge swift passage of this legislation as it works to offer both climate solutions and gas price relief to the American people.”

Background
The House version of the Next Generation Fuel Act was introduced in August 2021 by Representatives Cheri Bustos (D-Ill.) and Congressman James Comer (R-Ky.). The legislation requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to create a new 95 Research Octane Number (RON) standard that would rise to 98 RON after 2031. The legislation would also limit reliance on toxic, aromatic hydrocarbons, require a 40 percent reduction in the carbon intensity of octane-boosting additives, and update fuel and infrastructure regulations to expand the availability of ethanol blends up to E40. In addition, the bill extends incentives for Flex Fuel vehicles and requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to make long-overdue updates to obsolete models that undercount the contributions of U.S. biofuels to clean air and a healthy climate.  



RFA Thanks Senators for Advancing Innovative Next Generation Fuels Act

The Renewable Fuels Association today thanked Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and a bipartisan group of co-sponsors for introducing the Next Generation Fuels Act in the Senate. The bill establishes a high-octane, low-carbon fuel standard that would lower pump prices, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enable greater engine efficiency, and encourage competition. In addition, the legislation addresses regulatory impediments that have slowed the commercialization of these fuels and the vehicles that consume them.

Along with Sen. Grassley, original cosponsors include Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). A similar bill was introduced last year in the House of Representatives by Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-IA) and currently has 25 bipartisan cosponsors.

“We sincerely thank Sen. Grassley, along with Sens. Klobuchar, Ernst, and Duckworth, for introducing the Next Generation Fuels Act in the Senate,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “These lawmakers recognize that Americans will continue to rely on liquid fuels and internal combustion engines for decades to come, and their legislation would ensure consumers have access to more efficient, lower-carbon, lower-cost fuels for their vehicles. This summer’s geopolitical instability, record-high gas prices, and more frequent climate disasters all underscore the need for real and immediate energy solutions for American families. This bill provides those sensible solutions, and we look forward to working with clean fuel supporters in both chambers of Congress to turn this bold vision into a reality.”

In addition to saving drivers money at each fill-up, low-carbon liquid fuels like ethanol are an essential part of the strategy to reach net-zero GHG emissions by mid-century, Cooper said, and RFA’s member companies have committed to achieving a net-zero carbon footprint for ethanol by 2050 or sooner.

Specifically, the Next Generation Fuels Act would establish high-octane (95 and 98 RON) certification test fuels containing 20-30 percent ethanol, while requiring automobile manufacturers to design and warrant their vehicles for the use of these fuels beginning with model year 2026. The bill also includes a low-carbon requirement, specifying that the source of the octane boost must reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by an average of at least 40 percent compared to a 2021 gasoline baseline, as measured by the Department of Energy’s GREET model. The legislation also includes a restriction on the aromatics content of gasoline, ensures parity in the regulation of gasoline volatility (Reid vapor pressure), corrects key variables used in fuel economy testing and compliance, requires an update to the EPA’s MOVES model, ensures infrastructure compatibility, and addresses many other regulations impeding the deployment of higher octane blends at the retail level.



NGFA asks House lawmakers to support rail shipping bill  

The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today encouraged lawmakers to introduce and support a bill to reauthorize the federal Surface Transportation Board (STB) and help address insufficient, unreliable freight rail service for the U.S. agricultural value chain.

House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Peter DeFazio, D-Ore., and Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee Chairman Donald Payne Jr., D-N.J., have drafted the Freight Rail Shipping Fair Market Act, which includes several updates that would provide fairer treatment for agricultural shippers. The most recent STB Reauthorization expired almost two years ago.

“The status quo is not working for agricultural shippers and consumers, and we urge the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to work together to address this significant supply chain problem,” noted NGFA and 88 other members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group (ATWG) in a July 26 letter to committee leaders.

Among other provisions, the Freight Rail Shipping Fair Market Act would instruct STB to create rules for shippers to charge demurrage on railroads, providing a way for NGFA members to incentivize railroads to perform in the same way railroads incentivize their customers. The bill also would further define the common carrier obligation to establish minimum rail service standards.

“With fall harvest approaching, agricultural stakeholders need our partners in freight rail to be successful in delivering adequate and resilient service,” the letter states. “We urge the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to continue to collaborate, introduce and promptly consider a policy solution to deter future rail service failures.”    



Corteva Agriscience Announces U.S. EPA Registration of Resicore® XL Herbicide

Corteva Agriscience today announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved the registration of Resicore® XL herbicide. The improved Resicore XL herbicide formulation will be available for use in the 2023 growing season.

“Resicore XL herbicide offers increased crop safety and the widest application window of any Corteva Agriscience corn herbicide — along with the proven, powerful weed control growers already know and love from Resicore herbicide,” said Kelly White, U.S. Product Manager, Corn Herbicides, Corteva Agriscience. “We’re continuously looking for new, innovative solutions that meet the needs of today’s growers, and Resicore XL herbicide does just that.”

Resicore XL herbicide builds on the success and proven weed control corn farmers have come to expect from predecessor Resicore herbicide — the most widely used residual corn herbicide in the United States in 2019 and 2020.

Key benefits of Resicore XL herbicide include:
    Proven, powerful weed control. Resicore XL herbicide will give corn growers power over weeds with three proven modes of action to control more than 75 of the toughest broadleaves and grasses. The solution is powerful against even the most resistant weed varieties, including Palmer amaranth, waterhemp, marestail and giant ragweed.
     
    A wider application window. Resicore XL herbicide provides the flexibility needed to fit a wide variety of weed control and agronomic programs with the widest application window of any corn herbicide in the Corteva Agriscience portfolio. Resicore XL herbicide can be applied from preemergence through postemergence on corn up to 24 inches tall. Farmers also can customize their application rates for added application flexibility.
     
    Increased crop safety. Resicore XL herbicide is formulated for increased crop safety with an encapsulated acetochlor. The lesser crop response will help farmers achieve maximum yield potential.
     
    Greater tank-mix compatibility. Resicore XL herbicide features greater tank-mix compatibility with micronutrients, including UAN and ammonium thiosulfate (ATS). In addition, the solution will allow farmers the opportunity to customize their weed management with compatible products like atrazine, glyphosate and other corn herbicides.

Resicore XL is part of Corteva Agriscience’s broad portfolio of crop protection solutions designed to address customer needs.

Local retailers will have the most up-to-date information on the availability of Resicore XL herbicide in your area.



Four More Big Players Join “Farmer-centric” Research on Biologicals

“Biologicals: Farmer Value, Perception and Potential,” a comprehensive market research effort focused on understanding farmer opinions on the current use, issues and potential for biologicals at field-level, now has major agribusiness support to match participation already gained from industry associations.
 
“We’re pleased to announce that Meristem, BASF. Indigo and Pivot Bio are teaming with us to dig deeper,” said Cam Camfield, Founder and CEO of Stratovation Group in announcing the news. “More thoughtful input from a variety of players at the front end will help us get better data throughout the study. And better data will drive better planning and results for every organization involved.”

“Biologicals: Farmer Value, Perception and Potential” is set to kick off in 2022 and occur annually. Conducted by Stratovation Group in close collaboration with the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA), DC Legislative and Regulatory Services (DCLRS) and The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) the repeating study will benchmark adoption and attitudes around farm use of biologicals and aid those seeking to grow and develop the market category.

"Ag biological products are a significant business interest for many DCLRS clients and are increasingly drawing attention from governments at both Federal and states levels--our collaboration on this study will help bring commercial interests and government into better alignment", said David Beaudreau, DCLRS Senior Vice President.  

While there are other reports that may help in broad trend analysis, Camfield said, they lack the farmer voice, explained Camfield.  “In contrast, this will be a farmer-centric study.Farmers are the center of our world and it’s time for the market to listen to them more – seek to understand the good, the bad and the ugly at field-level.”

Camfield stressed that those interested in joining the effort to produce the “Biologicals: Farmer Value, Perception and Potential” annual report can become a sponsoring partner and share in all the findings, including the raw data. “It’s good for us to have more voices involved to inform this study,” he said. “We are gearing up for excellence and inviting any biological-focused company, startup, investor and others to join us,” he said.

Those interested may connect with Camfield and Stratovation Group at www.StratovationGroup.com/biologicals.



FARM AID FESTIVAL SET FOR NORTH CAROLINA ON SEPT. 24

Farm Aid’s annual festival — a full day of music, family farmers, HOMEGROWN food and agrarian experiences — is coming to Raleigh, North Carolina, on Saturday, Sept. 24, at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek. Tickets will go on sale to the public on Saturday, July 30, at 10 a.m. ET, at LiveNation.com.

Farm Aid 2022 will feature performances by Farm Aid board members Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews (with Tim Reynolds), and Margo Price, as well as Chris Stapleton, Sheryl Crow, Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats, Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, Allison Russell, Charley Crockett, Brittney Spencer and Particle Kid. The festival will showcase how farmers are leading the way to mitigate climate change by sharing their stories on the Farm Aid stage and throughout the event.

This is the second time the Farm Aid festival has taken place in Raleigh, having made its debut there in 2014.

“I’ve always said that family farmers strengthen us all,” said Farm Aid President and Founder Willie Nelson. “Farmers in North Carolina, across the Southeast, and all over the country are growing solutions to our toughest challenges, including climate change. We’re bringing Farm Aid here to highlight their hard work and celebrate the ways we can all join farmers to help.”

Agriculture is the lifeblood of North Carolina, generating $92.7 billion annually and employing 17.5% of the state’s workforce (more than 700,000 jobs). Home to 41,500 farms, farmland makes up more than 8.3 million acres of the Tar Heel state. North Carolina’s agriculture is extremely diverse, with 150 different farm products produced. Farms across the state engage in direct-to-consumer sales, creating the foundation for a vibrant local food system. Across the state, climate change has a considerable impact — especially on communities of color, rural communities and those working in agriculture. North Carolina farmers are implementing techniques to mitigate climate change, including planting crops to cover soil between growing seasons, rotating crops, reducing soil tillage, integrating livestock and crop production, raising pastured livestock, and improving soil and water management.

Farm Aid festival attendees experience a full day of music and the taste of local flavors with Farm Aid’s HOMEGROWN Concessions®, which offer a diverse, fresh menu with ingredients that are produced by family farmers using ecological practices with a fair price paid to the farmers. Farm Aid’s HOMEGROWN Village features hands-on activities engaging festivalgoers with exhibits about soil, water, energy, food and farming. Festivalgoers can hear farmers and artists inform and inspire on the FarmYard Stage and celebrate the know-how and diversity of cultures of agriculture in the HOMEGROWN Skills tent.

“Everywhere we go, we hear from festivalgoers that there’s nothing quite like the Farm Aid experience,” said Farm Aid Executive Director Carolyn Mugar. “Farmers and eaters are inspired and empowered at the intersection of music and family farm food to support the source of our food — family farmers — and to join farmers in fighting for our soil and water. We will celebrate the family farmers of the Southeast and amplify their voices on the Farm Aid stage in September.”

Tickets will go on sale Saturday, July 30, at 10 a.m. ET. Ticket prices range from $75 to $315 and will be available for purchase at LiveNation.com. A limited number of pre-sale tickets will be available beginning at 10 a.m. ET on Wednesday, July 27, at www.farmaid.org/tickets.

Additionally, Farm Aid is partnering with digital fundraising platform Fandiem to inspire fans to give back for a chance to win a ‘Farm Aid VIP PLUS Experience'. Fans can Donate To Win online at Fandiem.com/farmaid for a chance at an all-expense paid trip to Farm Aid 2022, including two VIP Experience tickets with access to the VIP Experience club and more.

Venue and Farm Aid staff are staying up to date on the latest CDC guidance and industry best practices to limit the transmission of COVID-19. Farm Aid is taking various precautions, including enhanced sanitation protocols and streamlined operations to prevent unnecessary crowding. Farm Aid will monitor the situation closely and will update protocols as warranted leading up to the festival.

Farm Aid 2022 will air live on FarmAid.org and Farm Aid’s YouTube channel. Returning as the exclusive broadcast partner for the second year in a row, award-winning country lifestyle network Circle will broadcast the festival live on air, as well as on its Facebook, Twitter and TikTok pages (@CircleAllAccess). Fans can find Circle on its linear feed and across most streaming platforms, including Roku, DISH, Samsung TV Plus, Peacock, VIZIO SmartCast, Tubi, Redbox and more.