Monday November 28 Ag News

 USDA-NASS Crop Progress report delayed until November 29

Issued by the Agricultural Statistics Board of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service... Due to system outages, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service delayed the release of Monday’s scheduled Crop Progress report until Tuesday, Nov. 29, at 4 p.m. EST.



Ricketts Begins Japan Trade Mission, Promotes Nebraska in Tokyo

This week, Governor Pete Ricketts is leading a trade mission to Japan to promote Nebraska’s quality ag products and to pitch Nebraska as a top destination for international investment.

The Governor and trade delegation will meet with government officials, promote Nebraska beef, pork, ethanol, and other ag products, and encourage Japanese businesses to invest in Nebraska.  Delegates on the mission include representatives from ag businesses, state commodity organizations, the Nebraska Farm Bureau, the Department of Agriculture (NDA), and the Department of Economic Development (DED).

This week’s agenda includes meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, and the U.S. Ambassador to Japan, where the Governor will discuss the revised beef safeguard mechanism and the benefits of Nebraska ethanol.

Nebraska is the first state to visit Japan after their legislature approved new beef tariff trigger levels.  The new safeguard mechanism will make it less likely that U.S. beef exports will reach levels that trigger higher tariffs, and it provides the State with increased opportunity to meet Japan’s growing demand for quality beef.

Nebraska ag producers and the NDA will also participate in the U.S. Food Product Showcase, where a variety of Nebraska value-added ag products will be marketed to buyers in the Japanese food industry.

Additionally, the Governor and delegation will meet with representatives from several Japanese companies throughout the week. At the events, Governor Ricketts will highlight Nebraska’s hardworking people, longstanding practices in sustainability, pro-growth climate, and central location.

This is the Governor’s second trip to Japan in November. Earlier this month, he went on a personal visit to receive the Order of the Rising Sun Award, Gold and Silver Star for his work to strengthen the Nebraska-Japan relationship.  

This is Governor Ricketts’ fourth trade mission to Japan (2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022).  Cultivating and maintaining a relationship with Japanese government and businesses has helped grow Nebraska’s ag footprint.  Japan is Nebraska’s largest market for pork and 2nd largest for beef, the latter of which has seen annual sales to Japan rise by $215 million, an 88% increase since 2015.  Additionally, Japan is the 3rd largest export market for U.S. corn, and exports in 2021 were up 57.7% versus 2015.  Japan is also an emerging market for ethanol, with the Japanese government committing this year to double the blend rate of ethanol in their gasoline.



SAVING HAY
– Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator

Making, transporting, and feeding hay is a large investment in time, equipment and money. At current prices, even reducing wase a small amount can mean big savings.  Can you be doing more to save hay?

While there will always be some loss during storage, keeping hay out of the elements and packed tightly is critical.  Hay stored in a barn can expect 6-9% losses, while hay outside, directly on the ground, and loosely wrapped can have up to 40% loss.  Visually, loss is easy to underestimate. In a 5.5 ft. round bale, 1/3 of the bale’s mass is found in the outer 6 in.

When it comes time to feed, losses can add up as well.  If hay is fed unrestricted, cattle can waste 45% of the hay they are provided. While this “waste” can be beneficial as bedding or a soil amendment, it’s an awful expensive way to put cover on the ground. Limit feeding hay so only daily requirements are provided will significantly reduce waste right away. Studies show that cattle fed daily versus fed every four days needed 25% less hay. This can be as labor intensive as a daily feeding, or something as simple as limiting access to hay in a feeder for a few hours each day.

Limiting access by physical barriers is another way to decrease hay loss. Bale rings, racks, fences, or another form of limited access can all decrease waste. The most effective physical barriers have solid side bottoms. This prevents the hay being pulled out onto the ground. Studies by the University of Missouri, Oklahoma State, and Michigan State on feed loss from bale feeders all found open bottom ring feeders resulting in 20% losses, closed bottom ring feeders had 13% loss, and cone feeders with only 5% loss. While these methods are effective, they require the purchase of additional equipment that can add significant time and money for large herds or changing feeding location.

Between storage and feed losses, it’s easy to lose half of every bale purchased or produced.  To give value to even a 25% improvement, take your current hay bill and subtract 25%. At the current $180/ton, that’s $45/ton. Reducing hay losses means better returns on your hay investment.



Nebraska Corn Internship Application Deadline Extended

Nebraska Corn has extended the deadline for the Communications and Outreach Internship hosted at the Nebraska Corn office in Lincoln. Nebraska Corn is seeking applicants to fill the role by Friday, December 9, 2022, with the internship experience beginning in May 2023. The internship is designed to provide students with an overview of Nebraska’s corn industry through real-world professional examples and experiences.

The position is a yearlong internship where students will enhance their communication and event planning knowledge and experience.
    Communications and Outreach Internship
    Host: Nebraska Corn
    Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
    Duration: May 2023 – May 2024

“The Communications and Outreach Internship is designed with students who are looking to grow both professional and personally,” states NCB Director of Communications, Jill Parrent. “The selected student will assist in planning trade show events, manage social media, and design work. They will also work with the Nebraska Corn Growers Association on projects throughout the year. This is a unique position allowing students to learn and grow from both farmers and Nebraska Corn staff.”

Nebraska Corn internships are open to all college students, with a preference given to students enrolled in colleges or universities located in Nebraska. The application process can be found online at https://nebraskacorn.gov/internships/. The submission deadline is Friday, December 9, 2022.  



Nebraska Beef Council December Board Meeting

The Nebraska Beef Council Board of Directors will meet at the NBC office in Kearney, NE located at 1319 Central Ave. on Friday, December 9, 2022  beginning at 10:30 a.m. CST. The NBC Board of Directors will review evaluations for FY-2021-2022. For more information, please contact Pam Esslinger at pam@nebeef.org.    



NDA REPORTS ADDITIONAL CASE OF HPAI IN NEBRASKA

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) in conjunction with the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is announcing another confirmed case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). This brings the total number of cases of HPAI in Nebraska this year to 13. The 13th farm is a commercial flock of laying birds in Dixon County.

According to NDA State Veterinarian Dr. Roger Dudley, the affected flock will be depopulated and will be disposed of in an approved manner. NDA will establish a 6.2-mile control zone, as is USDA policy, around the affected premises. Poultry producers should know the signs and symptoms of HPAI and notify NDA immediately of sick or dying birds.

HPAI is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily among birds through nasal and eye secretions, as well as manure. The virus can be spread in various ways from flock to flock, including by wild birds, through contact with infected poultry, by equipment, and on the clothing and shoes of caretakers. Wild birds can carry the virus without becoming sick, while domesticated birds can become very sick.

Symptoms of HPAI in poultry include: a decrease in water consumption; lack of energy and appetite; decreased egg production or soft-shelled, misshapen eggs; nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing; incoordination; and diarrhea. HPAI can also cause sudden death in birds even if they aren’t showing any other symptoms. HPAI can survive for weeks in contaminated environments.

NDA is encouraging bird owners to prevent contact between their birds and wildlife and to practice strict biosecurity measures. If producers suspect signs of HPAI in their flock, they should report it to NDA immediately at 402-471-2351. More information for producers can be found at https://nda.nebraska.gov/animal/avian/index.html or http://healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov.

Enhanced biosecurity helps prevent the introduction and spread of viruses and diseases including HPAI. NDA and USDA have resources available to help poultry owners step up their biosecurity efforts.
• Know the warning signs of infectious bird diseases like HPAI. Be on the lookout for unusual signs of behavior, severe illness and/or sudden deaths.
• Restrict access to your property and poultry.
• Keep it clean. Wear clean clothes, scrub boots/shoes with disinfectant and wash hands thoroughly before and after contact with your flock.
• If you, your employees, or family have been on other farms, or other places where there is livestock and/or poultry, clean and disinfect your vehicle tires and equipment before returning home.
• Don’t share equipment, tools, or other supplies with other livestock or poultry owners.
• In addition to practicing good biosecurity, all bird owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds, making sure wild birds cannot access domestic poultry’s feed and water sources.
• Report sick birds immediately to: NDA at 402-471-2351; the USDA at 866-536-7593; or your veterinarian.

Early detection is important to prevent the spread of disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk to people getting HPAI infections from birds is low.

All poultry entering Nebraska must be accompanied by a VS form 9-3 or Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI, or health certificate). If you are considering moving an animal into Nebraska from an affected state, please call 402- 471-2351 to learn more. Nebraska poultry owners wanting to ship poultry out of state should consult the state veterinarians of the destination states for import requirements.



USDA Designates Polk County, Nebraska, as Primary Natural Disaster Areas

This Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation or the refinance of certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available and repayment ability.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, these counties suffered from a drought intensity value during the growing season of 1) D2 Drought-Severe for 8 or more consecutive weeks or 2) D3 Drought-Extreme or D4 Drought-Exceptional.

Impacted Area: Nebraska
Triggering Disaster: Drought
Application Deadline: June 15, 2023
Primary Counties Eligible: Polk
Contiguous Counties Also Eligible:
     Nebraska: Butler, Hamilton, Merrick, Platte, Seward and York



ISU Dairy Days to Feature Profitable Dairy Practices

Iowa dairy producers have the opportunity to learn about emerging dairy industry issues during the 2023 Dairy Days events hosted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The program will be held at four eastern Iowa locations and one northwest Iowa location in January.

Dairy Days will be offered Jan. 17 in Elma at Innovative Ag Service, Jan. 19 in Elkader at Johnson’s Restaurant, Jan. 24 in Kalona at the Kalona Chamber of Commerce, Jan. 26 in New Vienna at the New Vienna Community Center, and Jan. 31 in Sioux Center at the Dordt College-Stewardship Center.

Topics and presenters (named presenters are dairy specialists with ISU Extension and Outreach):
    Raising Your Dairy Best Heifer, Larry Tranel.
    Weaning: The Other Transition, Jennifer Bentley.
    Using Records to Meet Your Heifer Goals, Gail Carpenter.
    Dairy Heifer Market Outlook, Fred Hall.
    Research Spotlight, Iowa State grad students.

The day-long event has been developed to help dairy producers learn about current practices and hear the latest research — all topics to help producers make sound herd management decisions.

“With nearly 25% of a dairy’s production costs associated with raising heifer replacements, optimizing growth and health is important to every dairy operation,” said Jenn Bentley, dairy specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach in northeast Iowa. “We anticipate great discussion and learning during this year’s Dairy Days with a focus on heifer management.”
Registration details

Check-in for all events starts at 9:45 a.m. and the program will conclude by 2:30 p.m. A $15 registration fee covers the noon meal and proceedings costs. Vouchers for the event may be available through your local agri-service providers or veterinarians. Students may attend at no cost.

Pre-registration is requested by the Friday before each event to reserve a meal. Register online at https://go.iastate.edu/2023DAIRYDAYS.

Jennifer Bentley can be reached at jbentley@iastate.edu or 563-382-2949; Larry Tranel is available at tranel@iastate.edu or 563-583-6496; and Fred Hall is available at fredhall@iastate.edu or 712-737-4230.



SCN Expert Answers Farmer's Questions About Costly Pathogen

Southwest Iowa farmer Dan Ory suspected the hot, dry growing season of 2022 could result in elevated soybean cyst nematode (SCN) population densities. That was confirmed when Iowa State University (ISU) Nematologist Greg Tylka visited his farm to answer his questions about SCN management.

The two met through a partnership between The SCN Coalition and BASF Agricultural Solutions to spread awareness about the yield-robbing pest. In a new video series, Tylka, who has spent decades studying SCN and working toward management solutions, answers Ory’s questions about managing SCN.

Why is SCN an issue again?
The Ory family has battled SCN in the past, but that was well before Dan joined the family farm. For years, his father controlled SCN with resistant varieties. He asked Tylka why SCN is prevalent once again.

Tylka says farmers have been using the same source of SCN resistance, PI 88788, for a quarter of the century, but over time SCN has developed resistance to the resistance. “If you use a single active ingredient for 25 years, Mother Nature finds a way,” explains Tylka, adding there is another source of resistance called Peking, but because it initially yielded less than PI 88788, it’s only used in a minor percentage of soybean varieties.

“Because the nematode has built up the ability to feed on PI 88788, it’s dragging down yields and we’re now seeing varieties with Peking outyield them,” Tylka explains. He says the fact that PI 88788 has lost at least half its effectiveness is something farmers and seed companies need to come to grips with.

When should SCN soil sampling occur?
Even though Ory was keeping the soybean plant healthy, he was frustrated by yield variability within fields. A soil test determined SCN was present. Tylka is glad he took that step, adding, “Soil testing is something we need every single farmer to do.”

Tylka is a proponent of fall soil sampling. “Testing soybean fields in the fall shows what went on with the crop you just harvested,” he says. “Testing corn fields, assuming soybeans will be planted next year, gives you the most accurate number of what’s there for next year’s soybean crop.”

Tylka recommends dividing fields into 20-acre sampling areas based on topography and other agronomic features then pulling 6- to 8-inch-deep soil cores from each sampling area using a zig-zag pattern. “Use agronomic common sense; you know your fields.”

What level of SCN pressure is serious?
When receiving SCN soil test results, Ory asked if there is an egg count that should alarm him. “If a farmer tells me they have a little bit of SCN, that’s like telling someone you’re a little bit pregnant,” Tylka says. “While there’s no such thing as ‘a little SCN,’ the level of concern rises alongside the population density.”

At ISU, Tylka says egg counts of 2,000 or less per half a cup of soil (100 cubic centimeters) are considered low, counts between 2,000 and 12,000 are moderate and counts above 12,000 are high if soybeans are the next crop to be grown.

“If you have a high count, you need to seriously think about not growing soybeans for another year to get those counts down,” Tylka says. In a single year of corn or another non-host crop, Tylka says egg counts may drop anywhere from 5% to 50%. The numbers will drop to a lesser extent in a second year of corn. By the time you’re into a third year of corn, Tylka says you’re not doing much to lower your numbers.

For more information about managing SCN, visit thescncoalition.com.



Strong Counter Seasonal Finish to the Year in Process
Stephen R. Koontz, Dept of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Colorado State University

Thanksgiving week is a very slow week for cattle markets. But there are a few much talked about market events that are worth repeating and emphasizing. The feeder cattle and calf movements were light the holiday week. But prices were strong and buyer interest was moderate to good. The summary for Colorado revealed trade of 22 hundred head down from the 26 hundred for the same week last year. Prices for Medium and Large #1 under 400 pounds were greater than $2 per pound while animals between 5-7 hundredweight were $1.65-$1.90 per pound. The heaviest animals were about $1.65. Trading in western Nebraska and Wyoming was similar – volumes even to down about 10% while buyer interest and prices were strong especially for lighter animals.

Hay and forage markets were somewhat similar. Modest volumes with strong interest. Much of the hay trade in Colorado, Nebraska, and Wyoming – that is not horse hay – is headed out of state and mainly south. Weather from the prior two weeks is resulting in the need to increase hay feeding in both the northern and southern plains. Fair quality hay in Colorado is firmly $300 per ton. And there is some price reporting of trade in corn stalks, mainly in Nebraska, that is $100 per ton or greater. Cheaper cow-hay is being sought and simply not found. The price received for all-hay in the entire US as reported by USDA NASS weakened some in September as compared to August – $242 as compared to $246 – but not much.

And the cash fed cattle market continues its march higher. Much of 2022 was spent between $135-$142 per hundredweight and since August cash prices have pushed to $150 and higher. The board for all of 2023 is solidly above $150 and approaches $160 at the seasonal peaks. The market is pushing past the supply and demand situation that has been the issue since 2017. Fed cattle numbers have been in excess of packing capacity for the past six years. Substantial Saturday operations has been a necessity. And of course, the situation has been made worse by COVID. But this looks to change in 2023 and firmly change in 2024. The dynamics are made more complicated by the extent and persistence of the dry weather. And the emerging prospects of a slower world and domestic economy.



Statement from President Joe Biden on Averting a Rail Shutdown

I am calling on Congress to pass legislation immediately to adopt the Tentative Agreement between railroad workers and operators – without any modifications or delay – to avert a potentially crippling national rail shutdown.
 
This agreement was approved by labor and management negotiators in September. On the day that it was announced, labor leaders, business leaders, and elected officials all hailed it as a fair resolution of the dispute between the hard-working men and women of the rail freight unions and the companies in that industry.
 
The deal provides a historic 24% pay raise for rail workers. It provides improved health care benefits. And it provides the ability of operating craft workers to take unscheduled leave for medical needs.
 
Since that time, the majority of the unions in the industry have voted to approve the deal.
 
During the ratification votes, the Secretaries of Labor, Agriculture, and Transportation have been in regular touch with labor leaders and management. They believe that there is no path to resolve the dispute at the bargaining table and have recommended that we seek Congressional action.
 
Let me be clear: a rail shutdown would devastate our economy. Without freight rail, many U.S. industries would shut down. My economic advisors report that as many as 765,000 Americans – many union workers themselves – could be put out of work in the first two weeks alone. Communities could lose access to chemicals necessary to ensure clean drinking water. Farms and ranches across the country could be unable to feed their livestock.
 
As a proud pro-labor President, I am reluctant to override the ratification procedures and the views of those who voted against the agreement. But in this case – where the economic impact of a shutdown would hurt millions of other working people and families – I believe Congress must use its powers to adopt this deal.
 
Some in Congress want to modify the deal to either improve it for labor or for management. However well-intentioned, any changes would risk delay and a debilitating shutdown. The agreement was reached in good faith by both sides.
 
I share workers’ concern about the inability to take leave to recover from illness or care for a sick family member. No one should have to choose between their job and their health – or the health of their children. I have pressed legislation and proposals to advance the cause of paid leave in my two years in office, and will continue to do so. Every other developed country in the world has such protections for its workers.

But at this critical moment for our economy, in the holiday season, we cannot let our strongly held conviction for better outcomes for workers deny workers the benefits of the bargain they reached, and hurl this nation into a devastating rail freight shutdown.
 
Congress has the power to adopt the agreement and prevent a shutdown. It should set aside politics and partisan division and deliver for the American people. Congress should get this bill to my desk well in advance of December 9th so we can avoid disruption.



Reaction to President's rail message from Soy Transportation Coalition
Mike Steenhoek, STC Executive Director

We applaud President Biden and his administration for recognizing the severe consequences a railroad shutdown would impose on agriculture and the broader economy and calling for an immediate resolution.  As mentioned below, an actual rail strike would halt economic activity, but even the threat of a strike will halt economic activity.  Agriculture cannot thrive without a predictable and reliable supply chain, of which our rail industry is an integral part.  Obviously, an actual rail shutdown is the least desirable option, but even a scenario in which negotiation deadlines and potential strike dates continue to be temporarily extended into the future would increase uncertainty and impose hardship.  Agriculture will struggle to succeed in such an environment.  A train transporting soybeans or other agricultural products is a sophisticated transaction involving significant volume, distance, and expense.  Those transactions are less likely to occur if our rail system does not provide the certainty that it will connect agricultural shippers with domestic and international customers.      

We affirm the President’s preference that the contract negotiations be fully conducted and resolved between the two parties.  As mentioned below, our desire has been for both railroads and rail unions to arrive at an agreement that is beneficial to both sides.  However, with the current impasse and the increased potential for a shutdown to occur, the likely consequences to agriculture and the entire economy have resulted in the increased urging of our national leadership to intervene.  We concur with President Biden’s recommendation that Congress should act in a bipartisan manner to provide resolution to this dispute without further delay.     



President Biden urges Congress to prevent a rail shutdown

President Joe Biden issued a statement tonight calling on Congress to pass legislation immediately to adopt the Tentative Agreement between railroad unions and management to avert a potentially crippling national rail shutdown.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also issued a statement tonight announcing that the House will proceed with legislation this week to adopt the agreement reached by negotiators in September with no changes to the negotiated terms.

National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) President and CEO Mike Seyfert issued the following statement in response:

“We commend President Biden for calling on Congress to act immediately to prevent a rail shutdown that would hurt the U.S. agricultural and broader economy. And we thank Speaker Pelosi for responding with urgency to this critical supply chain threat. The NGFA represents more than 1,000 grain, feed, processing, exporting and other grain-related companies that rely on rail transportation to move U.S. grain and grain products. A rail strike or lockout would lead to shutdowns or slowdowns of rail-dependent facilities resulting in harmful consequences to our national and global food security. NGFA urges Congress to deliver a bipartisan bill to the president’s desk well in advance of the Dec. 9 deadline.”



Statement from Secretary Vilsack on President Biden's Call for Congress to Adopt Agreement to Avert Rail Stoppage

"I take seriously overriding the ratification procedures and the views of those who voted against the agreement. But in this case – where the economic impact of a shutdown would hurt American agriculture and millions of other working people and families –Congress must use its powers to adopt this deal. There is no time to waste on political gamesmanship or the search for a more perfect resolution.

"I join the President in calling on Congress to quickly pass legislation adopting the Tentative Agreement between railroad workers and operators – without any modifications or delay – to avert a potentially crippling national rail shutdown.

"The U.S. food and agricultural industry relies heavily on rail networks for the transport of inputs and raw materials and for taking products to market. A rail shutdown would have significant and long-lasting effects on some sectors of American food and agriculture and could be devastating to parts of our economy."



Vilsack on Trip to Mexico, Meetings with President, Cabinet Officials  

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack released the following statement after his meeting with Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador on the U.S.- Mexico bilateral trade relationship and its importance for U.S. farmers, ranchers and producers:

“We appreciate the President welcoming us to Mexico and engaging in a productive dialogue. The meetings provided a venue to raise the United States Government’s and our producers’ deep concerns around President López Obrador’s 2020 decree to phase out the use and importation of biotech corn and other biotechnology products by January 2024. The President’s phase-out decree has the potential to substantially disrupt trade, harm farmers on both sides of the border and significantly increase costs for Mexican consumers.  

“We must find a way forward soon and I emphasized in no uncertain terms that - absent acceptable resolution of the issue - the U.S. Government would be forced to consider all options, including taking formal steps to enforce our legal rights under the USMCA.

“We made it abundantly clear that Mexico’s import ban would cause both massive economic losses for Mexico’s agricultural industries and citizens, as well as place an unjustified burden on U.S. farmers. This is a critically important issue for U.S. farmers, who are rightfully and deeply concerned about the decree. The decree would also have significant impact on the U.S.-Mexico trade relationship, which hit a record value of more than $63 billion in two-way trade in 2021 and is expected to be even higher in 2022. The phase-out of biotechnology products, as outlined in the decree, could also stifle the important innovations we need to help our farmers adapt to a changing climate.  

“The United States Department of Agriculture and the wider U.S. Government have consistently and proactively pursued cooperation and consultation with Mexico to resolve this issue and time is now running short. Some progress was made today. For example, President López Obrador reaffirmed the importance of yellow corn imports for Mexico’s food security. He also discussed a potential process in which we can exchange information and engage in dialogue assuring the safety of biotechnology products. We expect to have a proposal from the President’s team soon and we will evaluate closely. While we do not have a solution in hand, we will continue to engage with Mexico on this important issue.”



NCGA Applauds USDA Secretary for Outreach Efforts with Mexican President Over Corn Imports

U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack met with Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador today to discuss a looming decree proposed by the Mexican president that would ban imports of biotech corn into the country. The talks come on the heels of an aggressive campaign by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) encouraging the Biden administration to intervene in the dispute.

“We are very appreciative of Secretary Vilsack for taking the lead on this issue that is so important to American corn growers,” said NCGA CEO Jon Doggett. “Today’s meeting shows that the Biden administration is listening to NCGA and American corn grower leaders and that Secretary Vilsack is willing to go to the mat for America’s farmers. This is an extremely important development.”

A statement released tonight by USDA showed how strongly Secretary Vilsack feels about this issue.

“We must find a way forward soon and I emphasized in no uncertain terms that – absent an acceptable resolution of the issue – the U.S. Government would be forced to consider all options, including taking formal steps to enforce our legal rights under the USMCA,” Vilsack said in a statement.

Pres. López Obrador has promised to enact a decree that would end imports of corn grown using biotech and certain herbicides by 2024. Biotech corn makes up over 90% of U.S. corn crops.

NCGA has been at the forefront of this issue. In a Reuters article published in September, NCGA called on USTR to intervene in the dispute and then followed up with an op-ed that reached across Washington. NCGA has also worked closely with Congress on the issue.

“We will continue to press this issue with the Biden administration and other policymakers,” said Doggett. “But having the secretary of USDA in our corner comes as a great relief, as you can’t ask for a tougher or better advocate than Secretary Vilsack.”



Find Education, Entertainment and Inspiration in the Big Easy

The Big Easy is ready to host the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show, Feb. 1-3. New Orleans, famous for its world class cuisine, jazz music and lively nightlife, is a perfect venue to bring the cattle industry together for education, entertainment and engagement.

The annual convention will kick off on Feb. 1, with Buzz Brainard, host of Music Row Happy Hour, returning as emcee. The Opening General Session will include a casual conversation between “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan and NCBA President and Minnesota cattle producer, Don Schiefelbein. The two will discuss ranch life, today’s challenges and sharing the industry’s story in an authentic way. Sheridan is an Academy Award-nominated writer, actor, rancher as well as a member of the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame.

CattleFax’s outlook session will highlight demand and supplies for beef, cattle and competing proteins. Analysts will present a price and profitability outlook for 2023 and beyond for all classes of cattle and beef, explore export and import markets, and provide a grain outlook. Meteorologist Matt Makens will also give a 2023 weather forecast highlighting weather pattern changes for the United States and around the world.

Plan to attend the high-profile session on Friday morning and hear from government dignitaries as they provide an update on the beef business climate in the United States and around the globe, moderated by NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane.

The Closing General Session will celebrate the Beef Checkoff-funded Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Program and BQA award winners and will feature keynote speaker Chris Koch, who doesn’t let limitations or obstacles stand in his way. Despite being born without arms and legs, Koch grew up like any other small-town kid — playing road hockey, causing mischief at school, and helping on his family farm. Today, Koch is a motivational speaker who inspires his audiences to continually challenge themselves and build the life they always wanted.

While the general sessions are packed with engaging speakers and information every producer can use, entertainment will also be around every corner. Franki Moscato, winner of the 10th annual National Anthem Contest, will perform at the Opening General Session and during the Friday night event. The country trio Chapel Hart will combine their Mississippi roots and Louisiana spice in a special performance during Closing General Session. Convention will wrap up Friday evening with “Party Gras” featuring the country music group Midland and special guest Neal McCoy.

If that isn’t enough, the 30th annual Cattlemen’s College, will feature live animal handling demonstrations and 18 educational sessions with industry leaders tackling innovative topics. The Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame banquet and Environmental Stewardship Award Program reception will recognize leaders for their achievements, and there will be more than eight acres of trade show exhibits to explore.

In addition, producers will be hard at work guiding both NCBA policy and Beef Checkoff programs. Annual meetings of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, American National CattleWomen, CattleFax and National Cattlemen’s Foundation will also take place.

“Get Jazzed” for convention by registering today at convention.ncba.org. A variety of registration and housing options are available.



Dairy Market Report: Cheese Sales Drive U.S. Dairy Consumption Growth

Total domestic consumption of milk in all products returned to positive annual growth during the third quarter, for the first time since early this year. Strengthened use of all cheese was a key driver of this positive development. Meanwhile, U.S. dairy export volumes backed off a bit during the third quarter from their record pace during the prior quarter but kept the U.S. dairy industry on an almost certain path to set yet another calendar year record. Year-to-date performance through the third quarter was 18 percent of total U.S. milk solids production, up significantly from the current 17.3 percent calendar year record set in 2021.

The U.S. dairy industry has now clearly resumed increasing milk production after many months of below year-ago levels. Despite this greater supply, dairy product prices, which had been falling in recent months, found a floor and rebounded in some cases during October. Retail price inflation for all items, the categories of food and beverages, dairy products and for most individual dairy products moderated in October from a month earlier. The Dairy Margin Coverage program generated a second payment for 2022, of $0.88/cwt for Tier 1 coverage at the $9.50/cwt level, in September. The CME Group dairy futures and USDA’s dairy outlook are currently indicating that milk prices will be about $2.50 to $3.00 per hundredweight lower in 2023 than this year.

VIEW FULL REPORT HERE: https://www.nmpf.org/cheese-sales-drive-u-s-dairy-consumption-growth/.



USDA Seeks Nominees for National Fluid Milk Processor Promotion Board

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is seeking nominations from fluid milk processors and other interested parties for candidates to serve on the National Fluid Milk Processor Promotion Board. The deadline for nominations is Jan. 6, 2023.

From the nominees, the Secretary of Agriculture will appoint six individuals to succeed members whose terms expire on June 30, 2023. Newly appointed members will serve three-year terms from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2026.

USDA will accept nominations for board representation in five geographic regions and one at-large position. Nominees for the regional positions must be active owners or employees of a fluid milk processor. The at-large position may be an active owner or employee of a fluid milk processor or a member of the general public.

The geographic regions with vacancies are Region 2 (New Jersey and New York); Region 5 (Florida); Region 11 (Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma); Region 13 (Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington and Wyoming); and Region 14 (Northern California).

Fluid milk processors and interested parties may submit nominations for regions in which they are located or regions in which they market fluid milk. They may also submit nominations for the at-large member.

To nominate individuals, a copy of the nomination form and a signed background form must be submitted for each nominee by Jan. 6, 2023. Nomination forms and information are available on the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Fluid Milk Processor Promotion Board webpage. You may also call (202) 658-9369 to request the forms.

Nominations must be submitted by email to emily.debord@usda.gov or mailed to Emily DeBord, Promotion, Research and Planning Division, Dairy Program, Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Stop 0233, Room 2968-S, Washington, DC 20250-0233.



RFA’s Davis Appointed Again to Department of Commerce Advisory Committee
    
Renewable Fuels Association Vice President of Technical and Regulatory Affairs Kelly Davis has been appointed for the fifth time to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Advisory Committee (REEEAC), which advises the agency on issues related to the exportation of U.S. renewable energy and energy efficiency products and services. She will serve through May 2024.

“Since 2014, I have been proud to serve on this valuable committee to expand the competitiveness of U.S. exports of renewable energy, specifically ethanol for fuel use,” Davis said. “I am looking forward to the next Charter with a renewed enthusiasm towards our exportable climate friendly solutions.”

Established in 2010, the REEEAC is composed of senior private sector representatives that provide advice to the Secretary of Commerce on the development and administration of programs and policies to expand the export competitiveness of U.S. renewable energy and energy efficiency products and services.



Deere Reports Net Income of $2.246 Billion for Fourth Quarter, $7.131 Billion for Fiscal Year

Deere & Company reported net income of $2.246 billion for the fourth quarter ended October 30, 2022, or $7.44 per share, compared with net income of $1.283 billion, or $4.12 per share, for the quarter ended October 31, 2021. For fiscal-year 2022, net income attributable to Deere & Company was $7.131 billion, or $23.28 per share, compared with $5.963 billion, or $18.99 per share, in fiscal 2021.

Worldwide net sales and revenues increased 37 percent, to $15.536 billion, for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2022 and rose 19 percent, to $52.577 billion, for the full year. Equipment operations net sales were $14.351 billion for the quarter and $47.917 billion for the year, compared with corresponding totals of $10.276 billion and $39.737 billion in 2021.

“Deere’s strong performance for both the fourth quarter and full year is a tribute to our dedicated team of employees, dealers, and suppliers throughout the world,” said John C. May, chairman and chief executive officer. “We’re proud of their extraordinary efforts to overcome supply-chain constraints, increase factory production, and deliver products to our customers.”

Company Outlook & Summary
Net income attributable to Deere & Company for fiscal 2023 is forecast to be in a range of $8.0 billion to $8.5 billion.

“Deere is looking forward to another strong year in 2023 based on positive farm fundamentals and fleet dynamics as well as an increased investment in infrastructure,” May said. “These factors are expected to support healthy demand for our equipment. At the same time, we have confidence in the smart industrial operating model and our ability to deliver solutions that help our customers be more profitable, productive, and sustainable.”



Test Plots Help Ensure Better Planting and Seed Decisions

While corn and soybean test plots don’t show the whole picture, LG Seeds agronomist Jim Rowley says they offer key insights.  

“Local strip plots are important to give a farmer the opportunity to observe and to evaluate which corn hybrids and soybean varieties work in that local environment or in that specific soil type,” Rowley says.  
Broad spectrum and replicated companywide research from LG Seeds are reinforced with local plot testing, giving dealers confidence in product placement.

Evaluating plot results
When analyzing the results of plot tests and field trials, Rowley encourages farmers to look at some specific details to see the bigger picture.  
    Is it a no-till or conventional tillage system? That can have an impact on disease tolerance, which could be reflected in standability and lodging scores.
    Consider the populations of the strip trials relative to your own farming practices, as population can impact standability.
    What about the time of planting? One farmer may plant that plot early in the season and another may have time at the end of the planting season. There will be obvious differences in plant development throughout the growing season and harvest dates, resulting in different moisture and test weights at season’s end.

What plot tests revealed in 2022
Rowley says in 2022, strip trials showed that full-season hybrids significantly outperformed short- and mid-season hybrids. That’s different from last year in regional performance, where mid-seasons performed relatively better.

“The thing about the differing maturities is that it falls back on the development of that individual hybrid or that maturity and what critical growth stages it’s going through during the different stresses of an individual season,” he explains.  

According to Rowley, full-season hybrids missed the extreme heat when pollinating, whereas the short- and mid-season plants may have been going through pollination with a lot of heat stress.  

“It’s all about timing and how that can impact crop development,” he adds.  

In terms of specific hybrid and variety performance, Rowley offers this insight:
    Full season LG66C44 corn has been dominant through the majority of the Corn Belt.
    Mid-season LG59C72 corn has been stable, offering above-average yield potential for that maturity, along with tar spot tolerance.
    LGS3216E3 and LGS3784XF soybeans have been top performers.  

You can find out more about how LG Seeds performed this year in the Corn Harvest Update and 2022 Soybean Harvest articles.

Making 2023 seed selection decisions
To use plot results to make future decisions, Rowley says farmers should plan to diversify maturity and vary their planting dates. “That way the nick of the critical pollination phase doesn’t always occur at the exact same time,” he says. “And it’s not just about the reproductive stage and pollination, but also about other developing things with kernel fill, trying to beat the first frost and a whole array of other environmental factors brought on by the weather.”

Rowley encourages farmers to reflect on strip-trial differences to provide affirmation for the things that you suspect, “but don’t consider them the end-all when it comes to interpreting yield results,” he adds.