Wednesday February 15 Ag News

FSA Offering Programs for Livestock Producers Affected by Adverse Weather
Nebraska Cattlemen

If you were affected by livestock losses, livestock injuries, or your feed was impacted as a result of storms in mid-January, please know the 30-day window to qualify for FSA's Livestock Indemnity Program and ELAP is closing soon.

Two USDA Farm Service Agency programs may be available due to the impacts of eligible adverse weather events, which can include winter storms with certain conditions.

Both programs require producers to report storm-related livestock losses, livestock injury and feed-related impacts within 30 days of when losses or impacts become apparent.

A phone call to your local county FSA office can serve as an official notice of loss for either of these programs. To locate your nearest FSA office contact information, click here or go online to farmers.gov/service-center-locator.

Livestock Indemnity Program
The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is reminding producers whose livestock operations have been impacted by adverse weather about the availability of the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP).

LIP provides financial benefits to producers who suffer livestock losses above normal mortality due to an eligible adverse weather event, which can include winter storms with certain conditions such as heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures.

Livestock producers who have experienced this type of livestock loss are reminded that reporting and documenting those losses is an important part of the LIP application process. Producers must report losses within 30 days of when those livestock losses first become apparent.

Producers also can receive some compensation for livestock that have been injured as a direct result of an eligible adverse weather event and were sold at a reduced price due to that injury within 30 calendar days of the end date of the weather event.

Adequate documentation must be provided that proves the death or injury of eligible livestock occurred as a direct result of an eligible adverse weather event in the calendar year for which benefits are being requested. Documentation also must provide sufficient data that identifies the quantity and the livestock kind/type and weight range. Documents providing acceptable evidence may include, but are not limited to, any or a combination of the following:
    contemporaneous producer records existing at the time of event - pictures with a date
    rendering truck receipts or certificates
    veterinary records
    records assembled for tax purposes
    private insurance documents
    bank or other loan documents
    brand inspection records

Livestock owners or contract growers who suffered livestock losses or injury must file the notice of loss by 30 calendar days of when the loss is first apparent.

A separate application for payment and supporting documentation also must be filed, but producers have until March 1, 2024, to file this paperwork for losses occurring in 2023.

Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP)
The USDA Farm Service Agency is reminding producers of the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP). ELAP may be available to provide producers with financial assistance for certain impacts due to eligible adverse weather, which can include winter storms with certain conditions such as heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures.

Producers who have to purchase additional feed above normal quantities to maintain livestock during eligible adverse weather events may be eligible for financial assistance on the additional purchased feed to sustain the livestock through the weather event. Producers also may be eligible for financial assistance associated with the cost of transportation of feed due to the eligible adverse weather impacts if another feed loss is suffered directly from the eligible loss event.

Producers must file a notice of loss regarding these impacts within 30 days of when these feed losses and feed transportation needs become apparent.

Eligible livestock include cattle, buffalo, goats and sheep, among others, that are maintained for commercial use and located in a county where the qualifying eligible adverse weather occurred. Producers must have risk in eligible livestock and must have eligible grazing land in an eligible county to qualify for ELAP assistance.

For ELAP eligibility, documentation of expenses is critical. Producers should maintain records and receipts associated with the costs of purchasing and transporting additional feed. While producers must file a notice of loss within 30 days of when the losses become apparent, they have until Jan. 30, 2024, to file supporting documentation and an application for payment.



Webinar: Qualifying and Managing Residual Soil Nitrogen

The Iowa Learning Farms conservation webinar taking place Feb. 22 at noon Central time will feature Greg LaBarge, a field specialist with the agronomic systems department at Ohio State University.

LaBarge conducts research and outreach on nutrient management and water quality issues through Ohio State University Extension. His work focuses on the application of 4R (Right Source, Right Time, Right Rate, Right Place) management of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in row crops, and conservation practices which help limit downstream impacts of nutrients leaving farm fields.

Iowa Learning Farms is an Iowa State University Extension and Outreach conservation and water quality education program.

In the webinar, “Quantifying and Managing Residual Soil N after Corn,” LaBarge will highlight research conducted to help measure residual nitrogen in soil after harvest and discuss management techniques such as cover crops, which have proven to limit transport of nutrients to waterways. He will also discuss edge-of-field losses and additional conservation practices that mitigate nutrient losses.

“Having sufficient nitrogen is critical to supporting maximized crop yields, but our studies are showing a significant amount of residual N in the soil after harvest,” said LaBarge. “Research has shown that the use of cover crops after corn is an effective way to capture residual N as organic matter and improve soils. Identifying and encouraging the deployment of additional practices which keep that N in the field is important to achieving both long-term economic and environmental goals.”

Participants are encouraged to ask questions of the presenters. People from all backgrounds and areas of interest are encouraged to join.

Webinar access instructions
To participate in the live webinar, shortly before noon CST Feb. 22:
    Click this URL, or type this web address into your internet browser: https://iastate.zoom.us/j/364284172.
    Or, go to https://iastate.zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID 364 284 172.
    Or, join from a dial-in phone line by dialing +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 876 9923; meeting ID 364 284 172.

The webinar will also be recorded and archived. All archived webinars are available on the ILF website, so that they can be watched at any time.

ILF has applied for a Certified Crop Adviser board-approved continuing education unit for attending this webinar. Those who participate in the live webinar are eligible. Information about how to apply to receive the CEU will be provided at the end of the live webinar.



U.S. Grains Council Launches Corn Sustainability Assurance Protocol At Annual Winter Meeting

The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) formally launched its Corn Sustainability Assurance Protocol (CSAP) and Sustainable Corn Exports (SCE) web platform at the 20th International Marketing Conference and 63rd Annual Membership Meeting in Savannah, GA today. The CSAP is a way for U.S. corn producers to provide insights into their sustainable farming practices, continuing to strengthen global sales by highlighting their alignment with increasingly climate-focused markets.

The CSAP is a farmer-led initiative to show the strong institutional sustainability foundations underpinning U.S. agriculture, as well as the traditional and innovative techniques that U.S. corn producers are adopting on a daily basis.

The Sustainable Corn Exports web platform complements the CSAP by making it operational. Through the SCE, U.S. corn buyers can issue shipment-specific “Records of Sustainability” to allow overseas corn importers to easily determine and document the compliance of U.S. corn shipments with local sustainability requirements.

“Farmers are the stewards of our land, so no one understands the need for preserving the health of our environment better than they do,” said USGC President and CEO Ryan LeGrand. “The CSAP is a recognition of farmers’ extraordinary socioeconomic importance, and a way to further improve the appeal of their products with end-users around the world.”

Since 1980, U.S. corn yields have increased by 88 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Statistics Service, while also using approximately 55 percent less water and energy, according to Field to Market . The Council strives to recognize the adaptive spirit of U.S. corn farmers and the Earth-friendly growing procedures they have been using for decades through the CSAP, at no additional cost or burden to producers.

“The CSAP will establish a baseline of sustainability for U.S. corn that will continuously improve as farmers integrate new technologies and tools,” said Carlos Suárez, USGC manager of sustainability, policy and innovation. “Corn farmers work with remarkable efficiency and care for the land, and the CSAP is how we can show their efforts to the rest of the world.”

The use of the SCE web platform is provided at no cost to U.S. corn farmers, exporters and international importers. The goal of the Council is to facilitate the continued global trade of U.S. corn by helping international supply chain stakeholders better understand the sustainability of U.S. production practices.



Soy Innovation Challenge Selects Four Finalists That Increase Value for Soybean Meal

The sky’s the limit with this year’s Soy Innovation Challenge finalists. Ideas range from animal agriculture and artificial intelligence to pet foods and feed additives. The Yield Lab Institute in partnership with the United Soybean Board is proud to announce four finalists selected from nearly 80 applicants around the world to move forward to the final round.

Innovations generated from these startups, entrepreneurs and research teams aim to advance soybean meal demand, storage and transportation. The distinct nutritional and quality advantages of U.S. Soy allow for a variety of uses across animal agriculture, aquaculture, pet foods and soyfoods for human consumption.

“We’re working with the best of the best, and these finalists open the door to new markets for soybean farmers,” said April Hemmes, USB Demand Action Team Chair and farmer from Iowa. “With meal representing 80% of the soybean, it’s critical that we expand the use and value for our high-quality premium protein source. And it’s partnerships like this with The Yield Lab Institute that create these opportunities.”

The four finalists are as follows:
Satavie — Satavie’s mission is to nourish with responsibly sourced, high-quality soy protein concentrate made with innovative technology. They believe in providing wholesome and nutritious ingredients and strive to be a trusted source of nourishment for generations.

SoyKitty — SoyKitty is an innovative pet company that creates premium companion animal products that are safer for people, pets and the planet. An eco-friendly, nontoxic cat litter made predominantly from soybean byproducts.

Ichthus Unlimited — Ichthus Unlimited aims at resolving bottleneck issues for the aquaculture industry and providing solutions for its sustainability and permanence. A key R&D focus of Ichthus is to develop soy-based animal feed binders to replace costly alternatives.

POLARISqb — POLARISqb utilizes quantum computing and artificial intelligence to revolutionize drug design. They are developing a feed additive that makes soymeal feed digestible and nutritious for livestock without relying on costly extraction methods.

“We are excited about the finalists for the Soy Innovation Challenge 2022,” said Brandon Day, COO of The Yield Lab Institute. “These four finalists represent an interesting blend of pre- and post-commercial innovations and technologies. We feel they can drive new value to existing and new markets for soybean meal and its applications, and we are proud to support them along their journey.”

The challenge is sponsored by USB, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Solis Agrosciences. All finalists will now move forward, competing for:
    $170,000 in cash prizes courtesy of USB.
    Mentorship and entrepreneurial networking courtesy of The Yield Lab Institute's global network of ag-tech business and technical leaders.
    $5,000 in in-kind technical services and credits per finalist, courtesy of AWS.
    Gene-editing, transgenic plant generation/transformation and other research services courtesy of Solis Agrosciences.



UAN Fertilizers Again Lead Prices Lower

Retail fertilizer prices continue to shift lower according to prices tracked by DTN for the first full week of February 2023. This trend has been since the last week of December 2022. As has been the case in the last several weeks, seven of the eight major fertilizers are lower compared to last month. Of these seven, four fertilizers were noticeably lower looking back to last month. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Leading the way lower are UAN32 and UAN28 once again. Both liquid nitrogen fertilizers were 11% lower in price compared to last month. UAN28 had an average price of $499/ton while UAN32 was at $579/ton. UAN28 is below the $500/ton level for the first time since the fourth week of October 2021. That week the average price was $458/ton.

Potash was 7% less expensive a month with an average price of $694/ton. Urea was 5% lower compared to last month with an average price of $693/ton. Potash dropped below $700/ton level for the first time since the first week of October 2021. That week potash's price was $675/ton.

Three fertilizers were slightly lower compared to the prior month. DAP had an average price of $840/ton, MAP $857/ton and anhydrous $1,220/ton.

One fertilizer was just slightly higher in price compared to a month earlier. 10-34-0 had an average price of $755/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.75/lb.N, anhydrous $0.74/lb.N, UAN28 $0.89/lb.N and UAN32 $0.90/lb.N.

All fertilizers are now lower in price compared to a year ago by the following percentages: DAP (4%), MAP (8%), 10-34-0 (9%), potash (15%), both UAN28 and UAN32 (17%), anhydrous (18%) and urea (24%).



Weekly Ethanol Production for 2/10/2023

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending February 10, ethanol production increased 1.4% to 1.014 million b/d, equivalent to 42.59 million gallons daily. Production was 0.5% above the same week last year and 0.9% more than the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate ticked 0.2% higher to 1.014 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.54 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks expanded 3.8% to a 45-week high of 25.3 million barrels. Stocks were 0.6% less than a year ago yet 4.5% above the five-year average. Inventories built in the Gulf Coast (PADD 3)—spiking 22.8%—and West Coast (PADD 5) but thinned across the other regions.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, declined 1.8% to 8.27 million b/d (126.84 bg annualized). Demand was 3.5% less than a year ago and 5.3% below the five-year average.

Conversely, refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol recovered by 6.7% to 874,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.40 bg annualized and a high for the year. Net inputs were 4.7% above the same week last year and 1.8% above the five-year average.

There were zero imports of ethanol recorded for the tenth consecutive week. (Weekly export data for ethanol is not reported simultaneously; the latest export data is as of December 2022.)



ACE Underscores Role Ethanol, Climate Smart Ag Can Play in a National Clean Fuels Program as EPW Committee Holds Hearing

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) CEO Brian Jennings submitted written testimony today underscoring the critical role low-carbon biofuels and climate smart agriculture practices can play in ensuring federal clean fuel policy meets transportation decarbonization goals as the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee holds a hearing on “The Future of Low Carbon Transportation Fuels and Considerations for a National Clean Fuels Program.” ACE also joined a diverse group of over 20 organizations part of the DriveClean Initiative in submitting principles upon which a Clean Fuel Standard could be drafted.

“Establishment of a federal Clean Fuel Standard would be a powerful tool to help the U.S. meet the 2050 GHG emission reduction objective for the U.S. transportation sector,” Jennings said. “The ethanol industry and U.S. farmers are primed to be part of the solution. To do so, however, means federal policies like a Clean Fuel Standard must be technology-neutral and ensure fair and accurate accounting and crediting of GHG reductions from climate smart agriculture practices.”

ACE has been at the forefront of discussions on how the ethanol industry and U.S. farmers can further contribute to GHG reduction goals. Guided by its Board of Directors’ objective for ethanol production to reach net-zero lifecycle GHG emissions by 2050, ACE is involved in policy development and work to provide real-world validation of lifecycle GHG benefits of climate smart agriculture practices at scale.

“A properly crafted federal Clean Fuels Standard would more quickly incentivize U.S. ethanol companies and farmers to invest in production processes and deployment of climate smart agriculture practices to reach these net-zero carbon intensity goals in a meaningful timeframe to address the current climate challenges,” Jennings added.

ACE’s testimony notes how state Low Carbon Fuel Standard programs and GHG models significantly undervalue the climate benefits of today’s farming practices. ACE is proactively working to document the benefits of climate smart practices on the carbon intensity of corn ethanol through its South Dakota-based, USDA-funded Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) project, in partnership with top land-grant scientists and Sandia National Lab. The goal is to create a scientifically proven, non-proprietary measurement and validation tool that clean fuel regulators, renewable fuel producers and farmers can use to credit these GHG contributions in state and federal clean fuel programs.

In the submission to the Committee, ACE provided scientific evidence and economic analysis showing that adoption of climate smart agriculture practices is one of the quickest and most cost-effective areas for GHG emission mitigation. ACE conducted county level analysis using USDA’s GHG predictive COMET-Planner tool to measure climate smart practices deployed in an expanded version of the South Dakota RCPP project across a 10-state region. The analysis showed a reduction in CO2 emissions of 364,098 metric tons per year, and if LCFS market access was secured, roughly $530 million in new revenues annually based on current carbon pricing, with farmers earning approximately $263 per acre annually.



RFA Testifies in Support of National Clean Fuel Program to Decarbonize Transportation

Implementing a national clean fuel program that incorporates a market-based, technology-neutral approach will be critical to decarbonizing the U.S. transportation sector, the Renewable Fuels Association stressed today at a hearing of the U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works.

“While policies such as the Renewable Fuel Standard, the Inflation Reduction Act, and light-duty vehicle fuel economy and tailpipe standards will play a vital role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, other complementary solutions will also be required to truly decarbonize the sector by mid-century,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “If properly structured, a national Clean Fuel Program (sometimes called a Low Carbon Fuel Standard or Clean Fuel Standard) offers the best potential to rapidly accelerate the decarbonization of the transportation sector, while simultaneously enhancing energy security, creating jobs, and reducing tailpipe emissions of pollutants linked to poor air quality and human health challenges.”

Cooper noted the unanimous commitment made by RFA member companies to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 or sooner, and that a workable pathway has been developed toward that goal. This ambitious goal, while achievable, cannot be reached without policy alignment in six areas, he said:
     fairness and consistency in how the carbon footprint of different fuels and vehicles is measured;
    removal of unnecessary regulatory barriers that are blocking the use of fuel blends that contain higher levels of ethanol, such as 15 percent ethanol blends (E15);
    continued investment in storage and distribution infrastructure for higher ethanol blends like E15 and flex fuels like E85;
    implementation of strong Renewable Fuel Standard volume requirements in 2023 and beyond;
    equitable incentives for the production of flex-fuel vehicles that can operate on fuels containing up to 85 percent ethanol; and
    a well-structured nationwide clean fuels policy.

“If implemented on a national level, a CFP will need to be carefully designed in a way that avoids picking technology winners and losers and drives the greatest GHG emissions reductions at the lowest cost,” Cooper stated. “A nationwide CFP should use consistent, fair, and science-based lifecycle GHG analyses for all fuel and vehicle options; set clear and predictable annual GHG reduction requirements; allow low-carbon fuel producers to demonstrate continuous improvement in their individual carbon footprints; include cost-containment measures; and include complimentary measures to remove technical barriers that artificially limit greater use of low-carbon fuels.”



Still time to respond to the 2022 Census of Agriculture

Farmers and ranchers still have time to be counted in the 2022 Census of Agriculture, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). Although the deadline for submitting the ag census has just passed, NASS will continue to accept completed census questionnaires through the spring to ensure all farmers and ranchers take advantage of the opportunity to be represented in the widely used data.

"We thank everyone who has completed their census to date. Since data collection began last fall, over a million ag census recipients across the country have returned their questionnaires, ensuring their operations and communities are represented,” said NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. "We want all producers to use their voices to help shape the future of American agriculture. Census data inform decisions about policy, farm and conservation programs, infrastructure and rural development, research, education, and more. The stronger the response, the stronger the data. It’s not too late for farmers to be heard through the ag census, which occurs only once every five years."

NASS will continue to follow up with producers through the spring with mailings, phone calls, and personal visits. Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to complete their ag census either online at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail as soon as possible. The online questionnaire is accessible on desktop, laptop, and other mobile devices.

Federal law under Title 7 USC 2204(g) Public Law 105-113 mandates that everyone who received the 2022 Census of Agriculture questionnaire complete and return it, even if they are not currently farming. The same law requires NASS to keep all submissions confidential, use the information for statistical purposes only, and publish aggregate data to prevent disclosing the identity of any individual producer or farm operation.

NASS will release the results of the ag census in early 2024. To learn more about the Census of Agriculture, visit nass.usda.gov/AgCensus. On the website, producers and other data users can access frequently asked questions, past ag census data, special study information, and more. For highlights of these and the latest information, follow USDA NASS on Twitter at @usda_nass.



Annie’s Project Celebrates 20 Years of Empowering Women in Agriculture

Annie’s Project, a national non-profit to educate and empower women in agriculture, is celebrating 20 years since its founding. Today, the program has over 19,000 graduates across 38 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Annie’s Project uses a methodology that builds confidence, develops networks and creates lifelong learners among women farmers, ranchers, growers, landowners, and agriculturalists.

The inaugural class of 10 women met in February 2003 in Centralia, Ill., and several members of the group will gather again for a virtual meeting via Zoom to share memories of those early meetings and the impact Annie’s Project has had on their farms and lives.

The virtual event is set for Tuesday, Feb. 21, noon Central Standard Time. Registrants can sign up https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_gmpYG0dJSl-F2O-nFDffEw.

Annie’s Project Collaboration: Annie’s Project, an education program for women in agriculture, uses a methodology that builds confidence, develops networks and creates lifelong learners among women farmers, ranchers, growers, landowners, and agriculturalists

Additional events are being planned to celebrate the 20th anniversary, with updates provided at www.anniesproject.org or on Facebook, www.facebook.com/anniesproject. Sponsors can contact doris@anniesproject.org to learn ways to be part of the initiative and the celebration.

Annie’s Project is based on the life of a farm woman, Annie Fleck, who spent her lifetime learning how to be an involved business partner with her husband. She died in 1997 and was the inspiration for her daughter, Ruth Fleck Hambleton, to create Annie’s Project in 2003. Hambleton was a Farm Business Management and Marketing Educator for University of Illinois Extension at the time.

“Watching Mom and everything she did gave me tremendous empathy for what women were going through on the farm operation,” says Hambleton. Hambleton will moderate the Zoom event.

The Power of Annie’s Project
In Annie’s Project classes, trained facilitators provide safe harbor, connection, discovery, and shared experiences. Vetted instructors and presenters deliver unbiased research-based information to small, dynamic groups of women.

In Annie’s Project classes, trained facilitators provide safe harbor, connection, discovery, and shared experiences. Vetted instructors and presenters deliver unbiased research-based information to small, dynamic groups of women.

The core of Annie’s Project are two courses that address the five areas of risk identified by USDA. The “Managing for Today and Tomorrow” course addresses developing business plans, retirement, succession, transition and estate planning. “Know Your Numbers - Know Your Options” takes a deeper dive into financial literacy.

“Inspired by Annie’s” courses have been added that focus on particular interests of an audience, conferences, or hands-on events.

Annie’s Project leadership model of two women co-CEOs, Dr. Karisha Devlin and Doris Mold, underscores the program’s commitment to collaboration.

“By spreading the methodology of Annie’s Project throughout the United States and, eventually, the world we can improve businesses and the lives of women in agriculture,” says Dr. Karisha Devlin.

“Looking to the future, Annie’s Project will be introducing new curriculums, rolling out a leadership program, and creating more opportunities for alumni engagement,” says Doris Mold.

About Annie’s Project
Annie’s Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing educational programs designed to strengthen women’s roles in modern agricultural enterprises. Annie’s Project’s mission is to empower women in agriculture to be successful through education, networks and resources. For more information about Annie’s Project, visit www.anniesproject.org.



John Deere Continues 80-year FFA Partnership with $1 Million Donation

Building on 80 years of partnership, John Deere announced a donation of $1 million to the National FFA Organization to support the growth of future leaders, feed agricuture’s talent pipeline, and honor the organization’s community service efforts.

John Deere is the longest-running sponsor of the National FFA Organization and continues to be a leading advocate for the FFA, its members, and advisors. For instance, by providing the National FFA Organization with the largest amount of unrestricted annual support of any corporate donor, John Deere empowers FFA with the type of financial flexibility and security essential for its long-term stability and growth.

"We are thrilled to continue our partnership with John Deere," said Molly Ball, president of the National FFA Foundation. "For more than  80 years, they've been unwavering in their support and continue to see the potential leaders in each one of our members and our advisors.”

“At John Deere, we are proud to serve the FFA and, ultimately, the next generation of agriculturists upon whom we will all depend to provide the food, fiber, fuel, and other resources essential to our shared prosperity,” said Aaron Wetzel, vice president of Small Ag & Turf Production Systems at John Deere. “Farmers and those who support their work are the backbone of our nation, and FFA offers impactful educational programs that foster the innovation and inclusivity needed to keep our industry strong.”

In addition to supporting the organization financially, John Deere also has many employees who are former FFA members or supporters of the organization. As a result, they have one of the country's largest FFA Alumni & Supporters chapters. The chapter will be involved during FFA Week, offering members opportunities to participate in activities promoting FFA and supporting local chapters. In recognition of John Deere’s longstanding support for FFA, the John Deere Foundation is awarding over $30,000 to FFA Alumni and Supporters employee members and other FFA alumni to donate on Give FFA Day.

The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 850,000 student members as part of 8,995 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.




ADC Applauds Senator Gillibrand for Reintroducing the “Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act”

The American Dairy Coalition applauds Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) for the dairy priorities she has announced ahead of the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill negotiations, especially her plan to reintroduce the Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act.

Senator Gillibrand first introduced the Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act in 2021 with Senators Leahy (D-VT) and Collins (R-ME). The introduction of this bill was a direct result of Senator Gillibrand’s 2021 Senate Agriculture Subcommittee hearing on modernizing milk pricing and the FMMO system and has paved the way for critical discussions surrounding FMMO reform in not just Class I pricing, but potentially other areas as well.
 
Specifically, the Dairy Pricing Opportunity Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to initiate the process of holding FMMO hearings within six months on “the views and proposals of producers and the dairy industry on Class I skim milk price, including the ‘higher of’ formula… and any other views and proposals on the Class I skim milk price, and such other matters as the Secretary of Agriculture considers appropriate.”

“We are grateful to Senator Gillibrand for her leadership on this important bipartisan legislation to open the Federal Milk Marketing Order (FMMO) hearing process which will empower dairy farmers to be at the table. There is consensus among major dairy organizations to see the Class I skim milk price formula returned to the ‘higher of’ instead of the ‘averaging’ formula implemented in May 2019,” said American Dairy Coalition CEO Laurie Fischer.

“The American Farm Bureau and others have estimated dairy farm milk check losses of more than $3 billion in 2020-21 due to dysfunctional class price relationships and de-pooling of milk from FMMOs resulting, in part, from this change. Over the 45 months since the ‘averaging’ method was implemented, farmers have lost almost $1 billion in reduced Class I value, alone, as a part of their announced FMMO blend prices,” Fischer added. “We are grateful for the Senator’s work on FMMO concerns and her understanding of the issues.”
Senator Gillibrand said in a press release that it is one of her priorities to “ensure our dairy industry stays competitive in the global economy. Our outdated milk pricing system is doing substantial harm to the industry, and our dairy farmers are struggling. We have the unique opportunity with the upcoming Farm Bill to modernize our milk pricing system and let dairy farmers be key players in guiding this critical reform.”

“American Dairy Coalition agrees,” said Fischer. “That’s why two of our dairy policy priorities are to see the Class I pricing formula returned to the ‘higher of’ as expeditiously as possible and remain that way until a Federal Order hearing can evaluate all potential proposals, and ADC is  calling for a national Farm Bill hearing with report to Congress on the future sustainability of the FMMO system.”

“Class I fluid milk processors are the only ones required to be price-regulated under the FMMOs,” Fischer added. “The other manufacturing classes participate voluntarily. When dysfunctional pricing relationships occur, less milk used in manufacturing classes participates in FMMO revenue-sharing pools.”

Fischer cited USDA data showing only 60% of the milk produced in the U.S. participated in FMMOs in 2020 and 2021. The FMMO system is the only structure that currently exists for milk payment oversight, dairy pricing surveys and reporting transparency, weights and measures accountability, and other market services we take for granted.

As the Senator’s recent press statement explains, prior to the 2018 Farm Bill, the Class I skim milk base price (before location differentials are applied) was calculated using the ‘higher of’ Class III or Class IV advance skim prices. This was changed in the most recent Farm Bill to an averaging method of Class III and Class IV plus a $0.74 adjuster. This change, compounded by pandemic disruptions and government intervention in cheese markets, resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars in lost income for dairy farmers from May 2019 through April 2021.
 
“Economists acknowledge that the current averaging method puts an inequitable risk on dairy farmers as the benefit in Class revenue is capped at 74 cents per hundredweight, but there are no limits on the downside risk. We’ve seen months in which the Class I value was reduced by as much as $5.00 per hundredweight in 2020 and as much as $2.00 per hundredweight in 2022. That’s real money, and this risk affects how the available risk management tools perform when unexpected market shocks occur,” Fischer added.
 
“We welcome Senator Gillibrand’s legislation to open the door to FMMO hearings, where producers can be part of the process in evaluating a path forward that is fair to all segments of the dairy industry,” Fischer added. “This bill responds to producer concerns to get national hearings started. ADC looks forward to being at the table on milk pricing that affects dairy farmer livelihoods.”



Mazen Animal Health Receives Key Patent for Orally Delivered Animal Vaccines

Mazen Animal Health Inc., a pioneer animal health company developing novel maize-based vaccines announced today it has been issued a patent for its transformative technology to produce orally delivered animal vaccines. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issuedU.S. Patent US-11566255-B2, “Expression of PEDV Sequences in Plants and Plant Produced Vaccine for Same” on January 31, 2023. This patent covers foundational technology for the company’s first vaccine product, which is anticipated for launch in 2024.

Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV) is a virus of widespread concern, causing diarrhea, vomiting and severe dehydration. The disease has a death rate from 80%-100% in infected piglets. PEDV prevention in neonatal pigs is challenging as the virus is highly infectious and able to survive in the environment even with strict sanitation practices.

Mazen’s first product will provide effective, lactogenic immunity to piglets through orally delivered maize-produced PEDV antigens dosed to the sows during gestation. “This initial patent marks a major milestone for the company, allowing us to protect our products as we move forward with our game-changing, unique approach to animal vaccines,” said Jennifer Filbey, PhD, CEO of Mazen. “We anticipate this is the first in many patents to come.”

Mazen’s PEDV patent builds on an established portfolio covering the underlying platform technology developed by John Howard, PhD, one of the company’s founders. Mazen holds an exclusive license to the platform for use in the field of animal health.

About Mazen Animal Health Inc.
Mazen is developing and commercializing orally delivered animal vaccines that revolutionize animal disease prevention. Mazen provides elegant solutions to the challenges associated with injectable vaccines and offers customers (1) increased production system ROI — improving the economic and labor thresholds that control the vaccination decision today; (2) a safer method of vaccine administration for both animals and workers; (3) optimized vaccine efficacy, allowing for reduced antibiotic use; and (4) vaccines with a global reach because of ambient temperature stability and ease of delivery. For more information, visit mazenanimalhealth.com.



Merck Animal Health Receives U.S. FDA Approval of Expanded Indication for BANAMINE® TRANSDERMAL

     Merck Animal Health, known as MSD Animal Health outside of the United States and Canada, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA (NYSE:MRK), announced today the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s approval of an expanded indication for Banamine® Transdermal (flunixin transdermal solution). The new indication is for the control of pyrexia (fever) due to acute mastitis with a short milk withhold of 48 hours.

     “This new indication means BANAMINE TRANSDERMAL can be given with confidence to lactating cows,” said Scott Nordstrom, D.V.M., director of livestock innovation and discovery for Merck Animal Health. “With simple, pour-on administration along the animal’s back, BANAMINE TRANSDERMAL saves time and labor costs while getting cows back into the milking string fast.”

     In a multi-site field study, 95% of dairy cows with acute mastitis had a reduction in fever of 2° F or more six hours after treatment with BANAMINE TRANSDERMAL. That compared to 35% of untreated controls.1

     “Studies also show that a single dose of BANAMINE TRANSDERMAL is absorbed into the bloodstream within minutes2 and has a long duration of activity at the site of inflammation3,” said Nordstrom. “This gives cattle the best opportunity to recover quickly and return to productivity.”

     Introduced in 2018, BANAMINE TRANSDERMAL is the first and only FDA-approved product for pain control in a food-producing animal, and the first and only non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory (NSAID) cattle product available as a pour-on. It is a prescription product labeled for control of fever associated with bovine respiratory disease and acute mastitis, and for control of pain associated with foot rot.  

     BANAMINE TRANSDERMAL is easy to administer, and it eliminates the time-consuming and stressful treatment process associated with intravenous (IV) administration, which is the administration route of previous NSAIDs.

     Workers can easily administer BANAMINE TRANSDERMAL without extensive training. The pre-calibrated packaging and red-colored solution help ensure the correct dose is given every time. The unique bottle design makes it simple to apply topically on dry skin in a narrow strip down the animal’s midline from the withers to the tail head.

     “Caregivers can see visible results from relieving pain and fever symptoms in animals,” said Nordstrom. “This additional FDA claim for BANAMINE TRANSDERMAL is the latest example of the commitment from Merck Animal Health to improving animal care and providing dairy producers’ with options through innovation.”



Case IH Expands and Upgrades Vestrum Series With New Models

Case IH is adding two models to the lineup of Vestrum® series tractors — Vestrum 110 and Vestrum 120 — plus upgrading the Vestrum 100 and Vestrum 130 models. The Vestrum 110 tractor will reach up to 88 PTO horsepower, while the new Vestrum 120 tractor will achieve up to 102 PTO horsepower.* The Vestrum series is proven to deliver efficient power to tackle the heaviest of jobs while not compromising premium comfort in a compact design.  

Introduced in 2020, the Vestrum is one of the first premium tractors to deliver versatility, comfort and high-horsepower in a smaller design. “We are excited to offer customers an expanded range of model options and cab upgrades to continue to improve the user experience,” said J.E. Cadle, Case IH mid-range tractor marketing manager. “The Vestrum series is the perfect choice for those needing exceptional maneuverability, power and cab comfort in one compact package.”

New and improved features
Vestrum now offers an optional panoramic high-visibility roof for an unobstructed view of the loader up to full lift height. Additional cab updates include a low-mount front wiper for a larger cleaning area that parks low to ensure maximum visibility and a new in-cab cool box to keep food and drinks chilled all day — making longer days more comfortable. Vestrum comes standard with a mix of mechanical and electronic remotes, in addition to new all-electronic remotes option. Other updated features include a loader joystick with a forward/reverse shuttle and a new Advanced Farming Systems (AFS) Pro 700 Plus touch-screen monitor.

Built to tackle many tasks
Operators can continue to expect the MultiControl Armrest to keep all key controls within reach. The Vestrum series also will continue to be available with two transmission options: CVXDrive™ continuously variable transmission and ActiveDrive 8 dual-clutch transmission. The CVXDrive provides the most efficient gear ratio and engine speed to achieve target ground speed. This transmission option is ideal for hilly terrain or frequent load changes. The ActiveDrive 8 dual-clutch transmission is a 24-speed gear box that is easy to shift and requires no manual range changes.



Case IH Expands Planter Lineup With 2110 And 2150 Early Riser Planter Options

Adding to an already impressive lineup of planters known for providing accurate seed placement for fast and uniform emergence, Case IH is introducing the 2110 Early Riser® planter and an updated 2150 Early Riser planter to its 2000 series lineup. Featuring a rigid mounted design and 1.9- or 3.0-bushel on-row hopper options, the 2110 Early Riser planter is expertly poised to help producers tackle regional farming challenges. Meanwhile, updates to the 2150 Early Riser planter include split bulk fill tank scales and an optional increased liquid tank capacity for more tendering and filling efficiency, as well as greater acre coverage.  

“From soybean and corn operations to producers who cultivate bedded crops like peanuts and cotton, our latest additions to the Early Riser roster are designed to help growers combat recurring planting season challenges in new ways,” said David Brennan, Case IH planter marketing manager. “Taken together, the new 2110 Early Riser Planter and improved 2150 Early Riser planter offer a host of options that allow operators to maximize uptime while still putting efficiency front and center.”

The first factory-outfitted high-spec rigid mounted planter
The first offering of a factory-equipped, high-spec, rigid mounted planter, the 2110 Early Riser planter acts as a workhorse for small-field operations and bedded crops, including peanuts, cotton, specialty vegetables, flood irrigation, strip-till applications and more. With a minimized machine weight and reduced hydraulic demand for smaller horsepower tractors, the 2110 Early Riser planter deftly handles a variety of farming practices.

Six- and eight-row configurations available in 30-, 36-, 38- and 40-inch spacings, while automated vacuum control offers enhanced efficiency and accuracy. In addition, a complete offering of in-cab control functions is available for either pneumatic or hydraulic row unit down pressure, as well as residue manager control and closing system pressure. Two sizes of on-row hoppers — 1.9- and 3.0-bushel — allow producers to tailor the Early Riser 2110 to their specific crop type as desired. The new 3.0-bushel hopper design allows for trouble-free seed filling and several recessed areas make handeling easy when hopper removal is required.

A durable 7”x7” main frame tube design provides a solid foundation for the row units to ensure accurate seed placement. The toolbar design emphasizes cleanliness and simplicity, reducing connection points to prevent implement damage out in the field. Two weight brackets housing three weights provide added toolbar weight for high-downforce scenarios, while features such as a 5-gallon air tank and a heavy-duty steel electronics enclosure ensure maximum operator performance.

A high-spec design ensures producers gain the efficiency needed to tackle bedded crops, flood irrigation and more using the 2110 Early Riser® planter.

2150 Early Riser planter updates prioritize tank capacity, convenience
Featuring a new liquid tank with more capacity and split bulk fill tank scale options that help operators cover more acres between fills, updates to the 2150 Early Riser planter increase in-field performance without sacrificing ease of use. First, liquid fertilizer capacity has been increased from 400 to 540 gallons on all 12, 16 and 24-row 2150 Early Riser planters. The result is a minimized need for tractor-mounted tanks — as well as optimized hose routing and component mounting — improving productivity and reducing refill downtime while out in the field.

Next, new split bulk fill tank scales improve upon classic Early Riser ease-of-access features, such as a large fill hole and a low tank height with rearward visibility for simple, easy filling. Operators can easily visualize and monitor tanks using an in-cab display through the rear-fill platform or on the ground via the Cab Control app.

“With the 2110 and 2150 Early Riser planters, we continue to offer accurate technology along with a durable, dependable design — all while expanding the possibilities available to growers,” said Brennan. “In doing so, these machines close gaps in our lineup and help us offer a more complete suite of 2000 series planters than ever before.”

The 2110 Early Riser rigid mounted planter and updated 2150 Early Riser Planter are available to order for Spring 2024.



Case IH Introduces AFS Furrow Command for Precision Disk Air Drills

Case IH is proud to build on the legacy of AFS Soil Command™ and AFS Harvest Command™ with AFS Furrow Command™ downforce automation — designed to maximize producers’ yield potential. Available to order for spring 2023, the Precision Disk™ series air drill with AFS Furrow Command will help producers get the most out of every seed. AFS Furrow Command adds to the accuracy of our patented parallel-link row-unit by helping automate downforce setting and maintain consistent seed depth regardless of terrain.

New advanced technologies
AFS Furrow Command downforce automation is designed to take the down-pressure setting of the Precision Disk Air drill to the next level. This function automates downforce settings of air-drill row units, ensuring consistent seed placement depth in changing field conditions by varying the hydraulic pressure to maintain contact between the gauge wheel and the ground. Operators receive instant feedback from AFS Furrow Command, which simplifies adjustment of down pressure settings, right from the tractor seat.

“When it comes to seeding, growers need to make every moment in the field count,” said Trent Nowosad, Case IH marketing manager for seeding equipment. “AFS Furrow Command will help operators set the correct row unit down pressure, so they are at the right depth in the field at the right time. In-cab feedback, such as percent ground contact, downforce monitoring and mapping make AFS Furrow Command easy to set.”

AFS Furrow Command helps producers automate downforce setting and maintain consistent seed placement regardless of terrain.

Simple, productive and versatile in all conditions
AFS Furrow Command downforce automation technology offers a clear advantage over current down pressure systems by simplifying operation. The operator does not have to change settings for different conditions to achieve seed depth consistency. AFS Furrow Command adjusts the hydraulic pressure for each frame section independently for improved depth control. Feedback from the system also allows operators to minimize the force required to maintain gauge wheel contact with the ground for reduced component wear.

“AFS Furrow Command helps producers get the most potential out of every seed they put in the ground,” said Nowosad. “It ensures every seed is placed accurately no matter the conditions, be it hard ground or heavy residue. Downforce automation also makes achieving this accuracy much easier and helps reduce long-term wear on the ground engaging components, while ensuring the gauge wheel down pressure is always right.”

Precision Disk air drills with AFS Furrow Command optimize seed accuracy and placement. And its durable and easy to use. For growers, the result is more productivity and efficiency with maximum return on investment.