Wednesday March 1 Ag News

 Governor Pillen Declares 'National Pig Day', Names Office Pig

Today, Governor Jim Pillen was joined by fourth graders to help celebrate Nebraska’s 156th Statehood Birthday and National Pig Day by naming the office’s metal pig. Two fourth graders, representing Christ Lutheran School in Lincoln and Spirit and Grace Academy in Elkhorn, selected the name “Petunia” from the Governor’s cowboy hat.

The metal pig has become an unofficial mascot of the Governor’s office – nods to the importance of agriculture to Nebraska as well as the Governor's background as both a veterinarian and a hog farmer. Speaking with students, Governor Pillen explained that the metal pig in his office was a gilt, a young adult female that has not yet produced offspring. The Governor took questions from students; and afterward, students took turns riding the pig and taking photos.

The metal pig is a fixture in the reception area of the office, which is open to the public. Since his Inauguration into office, visitors have stopped by to drop their suggested names into a bowl. In addition to the ceremonial name selection, Governor Pillen marked the celebration with a signed Proclamation marking March 1 as “Nebraska Pig Day.”



ICGA Efforts with Governor Reynolds Comes to Fruition

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today they will be delaying the implementation of a plan, created by a group of bipartisan Midwest Governors, that would allow for the sale of E15 year-round in each respective state. This has been a huge priority for the Iowa Corn Growers Association as it would ensure consumers have access to homegrown, cleaner-burning, more affordable fuel options at the pump.

“We thank our very own Governor Reynolds for leading the effort for year-round E15. Reynolds has been a champion for biofuels and believes in the products we grow right here in Iowa that help alleviate the stress on many consumers wallets when fueling up at the pump” said Denny Friest a farmer from Radcliffe, Iowa, and Iowa Corn Growers Association President. “Not only are higher blends of ethanol more affordable by 15-16 cents a gallon, but also cleaner burning, which is why we continue to encourage the EPA to use its authority to increase the fuel supply through uninterrupted access to E15 year-round.”

In April of 2022, Reynolds, along with several other Midwest governors, informed EPA of their decision to support year-round E15 under the Clean Air Act. This would normally give the EPA 90 days to approve the governors’ plans, however, the EPA took 10 months to issue the proposal, which now includes a delay in implementation until 2024.

Senators Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst also signed on to a letter from 15 other U.S. senators, sent to President Biden on Tuesday, which called on the president to direct EPA to again use the agency’s existing authority to allow for the continued use of E15 through this summer.

The Iowa Corn Growers Association will continue to work on the nationwide sale of E15 year-round and a solution for the 2023 summer driving season, which is right around the corner.



EPA Proposed Rule Delays Midwest Governor Fix for Year-Round Until 2024

After a nearly 10-month delay that ran counter to the federal Clean Air Act (CAA) deadlines, the EPA today proposed to approve requests from a bipartisan group of Midwest governors that will effectively allow the year-round sale of E15. Despite public assurances from the EPA Administrator that the rule would be done in time for the 2023 summer driving season, the proposal would not take effect until the summer of 2024. In the absence of changes to the rule or other emergency actions, retailers in the states will not be allowed to offer E15 from June 1 to September 15, costing consumers unnecessary millions in fuel costs.

The coalition of governors, led by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, made the decision to equalize regulations for E10 and E15 blends in an April 2022 notice to EPA. Under the CAA, the EPA should have finalized the new regulations within 90 days, thereby allowing plenty of preparation time for the 2023 summer driving season.

“It is unconscionable for me to think that this summer, Midwestern drivers and fuel retailers will be the ones to pay the price for the illegal delay by the Biden EPA to finalize these rules,” says Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw. “The governors’ authority is not in question. The air quality science is not in question. There is no question the EPA failed to meet the statutory deadline. Now they are using their own tardiness to justify putting off the E15 fix until 2024, leaving Midwest consumers to pay 15 cents per gallon or more than necessary.”

In January, Midwestern state attorneys general sent letter to White House Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young and EPA Administrator Michael Regan urging them to “swiftly and diligently implement the outstanding regulatory action.”

“We are not done fighting for 2023,” stated Shaw. “EPA promised the solution would be in place for 2023 and we intend to hold them to that. We urge the governors and the attorneys general to defend their rights under the Clean Air Act.”



Fischer Statement on EPA E15 Proposal

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, today released the following statement after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a proposal to grant eight governors’ request that would allow for gasoline-ethanol blends containing 15 percent ethanol (E15) to be sold during summer months. The proposal, if finalized, would not take effect until 2024.

“I appreciate the EPA trying to move the ball forward on access to E15 during the summer months. We all know E15 is great for lowering costs at the pump and strengthening our energy security.

“But this proposal, while well-intended, still leaves the country with a patchwork of regulations that prevents the nation’s driving public from enjoying the full benefits of biofuels. It also fails to address this upcoming summer driving season.

“The best solution here is congressional action.

“I have a bipartisan bill that would create a permanent, nation-wide fix. I look forward to reintroducing it this Congress so we can make true year-round E15 a reality.”



Statement by Mark McHargue, President, Regarding EPA Allowing for the Summertime Sale of E-15

"Today's announcement from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) allowing for the summertime sale of E-15 beginning in the summer of 2024 for eight states, including Nebraska, only strengthens the case to address this issue in Congress. Fortunately, the bipartisan and broadly supported legislative fix to this long-standing issue has already been introduced by Nebraska Sen. Deb Fischer and Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-3), in the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act.”

“While we appreciate the EPA's efforts to expand the availability of E-15, thus boosting ethanol consumption and potential production, now is the time for Congress to move forward legislation that eliminates this confusing patchwork of state-by-state rules. Only the passage of the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act will fix this problem once and for all.”

“Nebraska farmers and ranchers again thank former Governor now Senator Pete Ricketts for submitting the initial petition to the EPA that helped move this vital issue forward. We also want to again thank Sen. Fischer and Congressman Smith for their longtime leadership and legislative efforts to move this issue forward in Congress. Lastly, Nebraska Congressman Mike Flood (NE-1) and Congressman Don Bacon (NE-2) should also be thanked for their support."



Naig Comments on the Biden Administration's E15 Rule Delay

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig released the following comment today after the Biden Administration unveiled their latest rulemaking on year-round E15:

“Despite delays from the EPA, I appreciate the strong advocacy by Gov. Reynolds and other Midwest governors to push the Biden Administration into finally approving a permanent solution to allow the sale of year-round E15. Iowa is ready to significantly accelerate our state’s use and availability of E15 today. Unfortunately, the Biden Administration is needlessly and unnecessarily stalling the start of this rule until 2024. Unless President Biden changes course to allow summer sales of E15 this year, Iowans can expect fewer fuel choices and higher gas prices at the pump.”



NCGA Expresses Concern with Delayed Implementation of Governors’ Effort to Ensure Year-Round E15

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today proposed to implement a plan from eight Midwest governors to require lower-volatility gasoline in their states aimed at ensuring drivers in those states continue to have year-round access to fuel with 15 percent ethanol. However, EPA proposed to delay implementation until 2024.

The National Corn Growers Association supported the governors’ plan and expressed serious concern over the one-year delay in implementation and the market uncertainty the delay creates for E15 in 2023.

“These governors took the initiative and used authority under the law to ensure their consumers could maintain access to low-cost, low-emissions E15,” said National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag.  “These governors did the right thing, but EPA’s proposal delays this solution. Higher ethanol blends lower emissions, save drivers money and allow for consumer choice. With the proposed delay in implementation, we now urge EPA to use existing authority to prevent a disruption in E15 availability this summer.”
 
EPA approved 15 percent ethanol blends, or E15, in 2011 for use in all 2001 and newer vehicles, which account for more than 96 percent of vehicles on the road today. Retailers have increased availability of E15, often marketed as Unleaded 88, to offer consumers choice and lower fuel costs, as well as increase the fuel supply. E15 has been sold year-round for the past four years, but outdated regulatory barriers continue to hinder permanent full-market access to E15.
 
Last year, as the nation faced fuel supply challenges, President Biden directed EPA to use existing agency authority to prevent a disruption in E15 availability between June 1 and Sept. 15. As a result, continued availability of E15 increased the nation’s fuel supply and saved drivers an average of 16 cents per gallon nationwide.

In April of 2022, several Midwest governors informed EPA of their decision on lower-volatility gasoline. The Clean Air Act gives governors the authority to act on these matters as they consider their states’ consumers and air quality. The Act gives EPA 90 days to approve the governors’ plans. However, EPA took 10 months to issue the proposal, which now includes a delay in implementation until 2024.

On Tuesday, 17 U.S. senators called on President Biden to direct EPA to again use the agency’s existing authority to allow for the continued use of E15 through this summer. NCGA supports the senators’ request and strongly urges EPA to use its authority to increase the fuel supply through uninterrupted access to E15.



Growth Energy to EPA: We Need E15 in 2023

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor issued the following remarks in response to a new proposal from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that addresses a petition from Midwest governors seeking to ensure that retailers in those states can continue to offer year-round access to E15—a blend of gasoline and 15 percent ethanol. The draft rule offered by EPA would not take effect until 2024.

“We are pleased to see EPA make progress on the request submitted last year by Governors Reynolds, Evers, Noem, Pritzker, Walz, DeWine, and Parson, as well as former Governor Ricketts and with the support of Nebraska Governor Pillen. We are grateful to EPA Administrator Regan for his steadfast efforts to preserve access to affordable, domestic biofuels, but we’re disappointed that the EPA’s proposal doesn’t provide a fix for 2023 and the coming summer driving season.

“There’s no denying that the simplest, best solution to unnecessary and outdated restrictions on year-round access to E15 is a permanent, federal legislative fix. American families need the cost savings that E15 provides. Ethanol producers need a robust fuel market to reliably make new investments that create jobs and lower carbon emissions. Retailers need marketplace certainty to fully commit to offering this fuel choice to their customers. Securing parity between E10 and E15 nationwide would address all three of these concerns.

“American drivers have been able to purchase E15 every summer since 2019, and this summer should be no different. EPA can ensure that access continues in 2023, and should take whatever steps are necessary to do so, including through the use of an emergency waiver.

“EPA has nothing to lose by providing such a fix, and the country has everything to gain. First and foremost, we need E15 in 2023 so consumers can save money every time they fuel up at the pump. Drivers saved an average of 16 cents per gallon this past summer thanks to E15 – and many saved even more, up to nearly a dollar per gallon. Working families don’t want to lose access to their favorite lower-carbon, lower-cost option on June 1.

“Additionally, the conditions that drove EPA to issue its first emergency waiver in summer 2022 are still impacting fuel markets. The war in Ukraine continues to affect the global supply chain and international oil prices. Granting a waiver or finding some other solution for this year would again decrease volatility and provide greater certainty for consumers, retailers, and ethanol producers.

“Finally, failing to offer a fix for 2023 would be a significant setback for E15 availability. While we appreciate parts of EPA’s proposal, without similar treatment for E15 this year, the benefits of such treatment could be undermined or negated completely as retailers stop selling this lower-cost, lower-carbon fuel option.

“EPA should act swiftly to avoid these negative impacts and find a way to give American families access to the same savings this year that they came to rely on last year. Growth Energy will continue to work alongside our champions to work toward an immediate and permanent place at the pump for lower-cost ethanol blends.”

Background
In 2022, the governors of Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, Wisconsin, South Dakota, Illinois, Minnesota, and Ohio sent letters to EPA calling for parity between E10 and E15 in their states through Section 211(h)(5) of the Clean Air Act, accompanied by research illustrating the benefits of E15 to air quality. After acknowledging receipt of the governors’ request, EPA today proposed a rule to make the necessary regulatory changes to implement year-round sale of E15 in those states. The rule, however, if finalized as proposed, would only take effect in 2024, leaving consumer access to E15 during the upcoming 2023 driving season in limbo.  



ACE: EPA E15 Rule Positive for 2024 But Urgent Action Needed for 2023 Summer Driving Season

The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) reacted to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) proposed rule today, which implements the bipartisan group of Midwest governors’ request to remove the 1-psi volatility waiver for gasoline-ethanol blends in their states. EPA’s rule would ensure retailers in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin can continue to sell E15 with interruption, but not until 2024. ACE CEO Brian Jennings issued the following statement in reaction:

“While ACE appreciates this step for 2024, EPA made multiple public promises these Midwest states would be approved for E15 market access in time for the 2023 summer driving season. Now, the Administration appears to be caving to refiner crocodile tears by kicking the can to 2024 instead. This delay means consumers in conventional gasoline areas of the country will be forced to pay more at the pump this year and retailers who want to offer lower cost E15 to their customers will be penalized.”

ACE supports and will actively work to pursue these steps following the release of EPA’s proposed rule:
    Recommend EPA immediately reschedule this change to go into effect for 2023 for the 8 Midwest States;
    Urge the Biden administration to consider an emergency waiver in 2023 for all conventional gasoline areas of the country, consistent with yesterday’s request by a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators.
    Work with Congress to enact bipartisan legislation to permanently allow blends above E10 to be used nationwide.

“EPA’s proposed delay makes a more permanent, nationwide E15 solution even more critical, and ACE will remain engaged with Congress and our industry partners on the re-introduction of the Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act, legislation to permanently allow E15 across the entire nation,” Jennings added. “We will make this legislation a major priority for our Hill visits during the ACE fly-in March 29 and 30.”



NFU Supportive of EPA Proposed Rule on E15 Expansion

Following a proposed rule from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Farmers Union (NFU) issued a statement in support of expanded access to E15 for consumers set to take place before the summer driving season next year.   

“We appreciate EPA’s efforts to increase the use of ethanol in this proposal.  Expanded availability and adoption of ethanol is good for farmers, good for consumers, and good for the environment,” said NFU President Rob Larew. “NFU continues to support further availability of ethanol and biofuels as a critical piece to address the climate crisis and provide more choice for consumers.”   

NFU is a strong supporter of biofuels and their positive impacts for farmers and the environment. This update from EPA – as requested from Governors in the states where it will be implemented – is a positive sign in the efforts of NFU and other ethanol supporters to provide common sense solutions that have multiple benefits across our economy.  NFU urges the Administration to allow E15 usage this summer driving season as was done last year. NFU also continues to advocate for higher blends, such as E30, as a way to have a greater reduction in air pollutants while also having an increase in octane.



Suggestions on Managing Calving during Muddy Conditions

Given the recent precipitation and the weather forecast, things are shaping up to create very muddy conditions in Iowa just as spring calving season is really taking off. Mud is always a headache but it can be particularly challenging for cattle producers during calving season. Chris Clark, beef specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, describes some of these challenges and offers a few suggestions to help producers manage muddy conditions.

“Muddy conditions increase the risk for hypothermia, failure of passive transfer and infectious disease of newborn calves,” he said. “Wet, muddy coats do not insulate as effectively as clean, dry coats. Born into these conditions, newborns can struggle to regulate body temperature and become chilled, which can lead to weakness, lethargy and suckling issues. Pathogens thrive in muddy lot conditions and udders can easily become dirty with contaminated mud and manure.”

Clark said there is no silver bullet because every farm has its own unique limitations and challenges, but producers should strive to calve in well-drained areas and do their best to keep cattle high and dry.

"Use bedding to create dry areas and layers of insulation between the animals and the wet ground, and remember to remove saturated bedding and/or re-bed as necessary," he said. "Feeding on concrete or pads of packed rock or lime can create a solid base under high traffic areas that can become extremely messy.”

It's also very important to check cattle carefully and frequently when calving in muddy conditions. Early intervention can be valuable to help calves get going and ensure colostrum consumption.

“When we are talking about things like hypothermia and failure of passive transfer, the earlier we can intervene the better,” said Clark.

Reducing stocking density or increasing pen space per head can help to reduce traffic and the effect of manure and urine, promoting drying and managing mud depth. It can be extremely helpful to occasionally move cattle to cleaner, drier pens.

It is common for people to move pairs out to pasture once they feel the calves are doing well. On one hand, this is great to spread out the cattle and get them in a cleaner environment; however, there are a couple problems with this approach.

"One is that pastures may not yet be ready to graze and may be very wet themselves. This creates the risk of reducing pasture productivity by grazing too early and damaging the wet ground," Clark said. "The other problem is that newborns still arrive into a muddy and often, pathogen-contaminated environment.”

Clark recommends being creative to implement some sort of modified Sandhills Calving System by occasionally moving remaining pregnant females to a new calving area.

“Moving pregnant cows to a cleaner, drier environment can work well to protect newborn calves. There should be less risk of chilled calves and dirty udders and stuff like that. And the new calving area will not be contaminated with pathogens being shed by older calves,” he said.

Mud also can contribute to greater energy requirements for cattle. Muddy conditions can increase energy demands by affecting the insulating ability of the hair coat and by simply increasing calories burned as animals struggle to walk through mud. Deep mud can increase energy requirements by up to 30%.

“This time of year I often emphasize the importance of sufficient nutrition to support adequate body condition score at calving and meet the increasing requirements of third trimester and early lactation, he said.

"Cattle can burn many calories just walking through the mud," he explained. "Think about how difficult it can be trying to walk through deep mud. It is no different for a cow. It is critical for health and performance of cow and calf that the diet is balanced to meet the greater energy requirements of challenging environmental conditions.”

Clark reminds producers that cows may choose to avoid the challenge of getting to the feed so may be prone to simply eating less. That's why it's important to manage conditions around the feeding area and try to maintain a navigable path from loafing areas to feeding areas.

"There's no question that most of these suggestions are easier said than done, but investing effort in these areas can reap great rewards with greater calf survival, health and performance," Clark said.



USDA January '23 Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production

Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 494 million bushels in January 2023. Total corn consumption was up 4 percent from December 2022 but down 4 percent from January 2022. January 2023 usage included 92.1 percent for alcohol and 7.9 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 6.08 million bushels, up 37 percent from December 2022 and up 61 percent from January 2022. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 444 million bushels, was up 4 percent from December 2022 but down 4 percent from January 2022. Corn consumed in January 2023 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 91.6 percent and 8.4 percent, respectively.

Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.71 million tons during January 2023, up 2 percent from December 2022 but down 11 percent from January 2022. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.26 million tons in January 2023, down 7 percent from December 2022 and down 11 percent from January 2022.

Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 268,446 tons during January 2023, up 6 percent from December 2022 but down 1 percent from January 2022. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 208,090 tons in January 2023, up 10 percent from December 2022 and up 6 percent from January 2022.

Fats and Oils: Oilseed Crushings, Production, Consumption and Stocks - Jan '23
Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 5.73 million tons (191 million bushels) in January 2023, compared with 5.62 million tons (187 million bushels) in December 2022 and 5.83 million tons (194 million bushels) in January 2022. Crude oil produced was 2.25 billion pounds, up 3 percent from December 2022 but down 1 percent from January 2022. Soybean once refined oil production at 1.72 billion pounds during January 2023 increased 9 percent from December 2022 and increased 8 percent from January 2022.

2022 Fats and Oils Oilseed Crushings, Production, Consumption and Stocks
Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 65.9 million tons in 2022, an increase of 3 percent from 2021.  Crude oil production was 26.0 billion pounds, up 3 percent from 2021.



All Fertilizer Prices Lower Again

Retail fertilizer prices continue their march lower, according to prices tracked by DTN for the third full week of February 2023. This trend has been with us since before the beginning of the New Year. All eight of the major fertilizer prices are once again lower compared to last month. Five of the eight fertilizers had a substantial price decline. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Leading the way lower was UAN32 and UAN28 once again. UAN32 was 12% lower compared to last month while UAN28 was 10% less expensive. UAN32 had an average price of $554/ton while UAN28 was at $470/ton. Anhydrous was 9% lower looking back a month prior. The nitrogen fertilizer's average price was $1,124/ton. Both potash and urea were 6% less expensive compared to the month prior. Potash had an average price of $673/ton and urea was $666/ton. The remaining three fertilizers were all just slightly lower compared to the prior month. DAP had an average price of $836/ton, MAP $834/ton and 10-34-0 $741/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.72/lb.N, anhydrous $0.69/lb.N, UAN28 $0.84/lb.N and UAN32 $0.86/lb.N.

All fertilizers are now lower compared to one year ago. DAP is 4% less expensive, MAP and 10-34-0 are both 11% lower, potash is 17% less expensive, UAN32 is 21% lower, UAN28 is 22% less expensive, anhydrous is 24% lower and urea is 25% less expensive compared to a year prior.



World Pork Expo® Set for Milestone 35th Anniversary Celebration in 2023

The 2023 World Pork Expo will return to the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa, from June 7-9. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the annual event focusing on education, innovation and networking within the pork industry.

“This is a big anniversary for the World Pork Expo,” National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) Board President Terry Wolters said. “We’re looking forward to celebrating the event’s history while continuing to look ahead at the progress the industry continues to make. With this year’s exceptional lineup of programming and educational seminars, this really is a must-attend event for the industry.”
 
World's Largest Pork-Specific Tradeshow
The World Pork Expo is the defining annual event for the pork industry and highlights the $57 billion and 610,000 jobs the industry contributes to the U.S. economy.

“There are more than 66,000 pork producers nationwide,” Wolters said. “The World Pork Expo showcases how committed NPPC is to everyone in the pork industry. At the same time, it’s a great way for industry professionals to connect and network with one another.”

The event has seen significant growth over the last three and a half decades to become the world’s largest pork-specific trade show. Last year, more than 10,000 pork producers and ag professionals representing over 400 companies worldwide participated. This year’s event is expected to draw even more industry insiders to the more than 300,000 square feet of exhibit space.
 
Online Registration Opens Soon
Registration information will soon be available on worldpork.org for those who plan to attend the 2023 World Pork Expo, June 7-9. Attendees are also encouraged to follow #WPX2023 and #35YearsofWPX on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to stay connected and informed.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 2/24/2023

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending February 24, ethanol production declined 2.5% to 1.003 million b/d, equivalent to 42.13 million gallons daily. Production was 0.6% above the same week last year and 0.2% more than the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate decreased 0.7% to 1.011 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.50 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks scaled back by 3.2% to a 3-week low of 24.8 million barrels. Stocks were 0.6% lower than a year ago but 3.5% above the five-year average. Inventories thinned across all regions except the West Coast (PADD 5).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, rose 2.3% to a 9-week high of 9.11 million b/d (139.69 bg annualized). Demand was 4.2% more than a year ago and 2.6% above the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol climbed 2.2% to 873,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.38 bg annualized. However, net inputs were 0.3% below the same week last year as well as the five-year average.

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



USDA Announces $7.5 Million Available in Grant Funding to Expand Markets for U.S. Agricultural Products

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the availability of $7.5 million through the Acer Access and Development Program (Acer) and the Federal-State Marketing Improvement Program (FSMIP), and is now accepting applications for these funding opportunities through USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). These competitive grant programs fund projects that strengthen and explore new market opportunities for U.S. food and agricultural products.

“Producers at the local level can be the best source for innovative ideas, as they are uniquely positioned to see where new markets could be explored,” said USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt. “These programs support exploration of new approaches that can create marketing opportunities for local and regional producers including in the U.S. maple syrup industry.”

Acer
Through the Acer program, $6.4 million is available to fund projects that increase market opportunities for the domestic maple syrup industry. Acer funds two project types, Market Development and Promotion and Producer and Landowner Education. Market Development and Promotion projects improve consumer knowledge, awareness, and understanding of the maple syrup industry and its products. Producer and Landowner Education projects advance producer knowledge, awareness, and understanding of research, educational resources, or natural resource sustainability practices affecting the maple syrup industry and its products. Eligible applicants include states, tribal governments, and research institutions. Projects are awarded for up to 36 months. A cash match is not required. Acer funding is authorized by the 2018 Farm Bill and funded by annual appropriations.

FSMIP
Through FSMIP, $1.1 million is available for projects to explore new market opportunities for U.S. food and agricultural products and encourage research and innovation aimed at improving the efficiency and performance of the marketing system. The program supports state departments of agriculture, state agricultural experiment stations, and other appropriate state agencies. Projects are awarded for up to 36 months. A dollar-for-dollar match in cash or in-kind resources is required. FSMIP is authorized by the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 and funded by annual appropriations.




AFBF President Outlines Challenges and Opportunities to House Agriculture Committee

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall spent four and a half hours before the House Agriculture Committee Tuesday outlining the challenges facing America’s farmers and ranchers. Duvall joined five other agriculture industry leaders in testifying and taking questions from lawmakers during the hearing titled “Uncertainty, Inflation, Regulations: Challenges for American Agriculture.”

“There are certainly plenty of challenges for American agriculture,” Duvall told the committee during his opening comments. “From losses experienced in the trade war with China, to pandemic lockdowns, and supply chain disruptions. Add to it the record-high supply costs, and you see how farmers and ranchers have faced unprecedented volatility in recent years.

“USDA’s most recent Farm Sector Income Forecast sees a decrease in net farm income in 2023, down 15.9%. Adjusted for inflation, that’s an 18% drop. The same report estimates farm and ranch production expenses will continue to increase – by $18 billion. This follows a record increase of $70 billion in 2022.”

President Duvall also highlighted regulatory hardships facing farmers, including restricted access to pesticides, the new Waters of the United States rule, a proposed Securities and Exchange Commission emissions reporting rule and shortcomings in the H-2A labor program.

He also shared opportunities to strengthen farms through voluntary climate-smart programs, increased meat processing competition and the passage of a unified farm bill.

“It is important that we understand how important the safety net is for agriculture so that we will have the food to be able to use in the safety net for the people that are not as fortunate as others during…periods of their lives,” Duvall said when Rep. Darren Soto (D-Fla.) asked him about keeping nutrition programs in the food bill. “So, I think they go together well. It gives us a true picture of the food, where it’s produced and where a lot of it’s consumed and making sure that those people have access to good quality food.”

On a question from Rep. Mary Miller (R-Ill.) on the importance of trade, President Duvall replied, “Anytime the field in the arena of trade is leveled and we have access to those markets it helps our farmers and ranchers tremendously. We’re always working to encourage trade across the world, and we just think there are some great opportunities, especially in the Asia Pacific areas.”



Sabanto Delivers Autonomous Tractor Units to Patrick Space Force Base

Today, Sabanto, Inc announced delivery of two autonomous tractor units to the 45th Civil Engineer Squadron at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida. These units will aid the grounds maintenance measures around the base. This technology allows one operator to supervise multiple tractors, addressing labor shortages and helping to alleviate a backlog of tasks.

"We are excited to provide our technology not only to the United States Air Force, but also to the United States Space Force," said Eddie Brown, Sabanto's Vice President of Government Products & Services. "Expanding our market within the Department of Defense represents a big step for Sabanto."

Sabanto's autonomous technology was recently installed on the supported Kubota M5 tractor platform and is being used to automate airfield mowing operations using Sabanto's state-of-the-art path planning technology.

"Automating our mowers will allow for the reallocation of labor hours to tackle other base priorities," said Andrew C. Johnson, Captain, USAF. "By maximizing our labor hours, we will be able to complete more tasks in-house to support the space launch mission, our mission partners, and the base populace."

"Sabanto is thankful for the opportunity to serve Patrick Space Force Base. We are looking forward to opportunities to advance Sabanto's technology to better support our military partners," said Cory Spaetti, Sabanto's Vice President of Product.

Sabanto has proven, through extensive field testing, its ability to automate a variety of field operations over significant acres, leveraging a fleet of smaller 60 and 90 horsepower tractors. The company's advanced software has also been pivotal in deploying multiple systems for multiple days of non-stop operation.



RFA’s Cooper: Persistence and Momentum Key to Ethanol Industry Success in 2023

The innate persistence of the U.S. ethanol industry and its champions can drive renewable fuels to new heights in 2023, Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper said today in his annual “State of the Industry” presentation at the National Ethanol Conference in Orlando, Fla.

“When faced with challenges, roadblocks, and failure, we don’t give up,” Cooper said. “We continue to innovate. We think outside of the box. We find workarounds. We eliminate the ways that won’t work…and find the way that will work.”

Cooper cited several policy and marketplace successes last year—such as passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, strong RFS volumes for 2022, a growth-oriented RFS proposal for 2023-2025, and greater interest in sustainable aviation fuel—as building momentum toward an even better 2023. He noted that the unanimous net-zero-carbon commitment of the association’s members is leading to a “renaissance moment” for ethanol, including unprecedented interest and innovation in green chemicals, sustainable aviation fuel, and other non-traditional uses.

“We have momentum on our side after some major victories in 2022,” Cooper said. “Now, we need to keep it going. As we continue positioning ethanol for long-term success and growth, we need to be persistent in telling our story to policymakers, regulators, the media, industry stakeholders, and the general public. We can’t let others define us. We define our future—not oil refiners in Delaware; not environmental extremists; not ivory tower academics; not loud-mouthed cable TV talk show hosts.”

Much work needs to be done, Cooper said, including a permanent fix allowing year-round nationwide E15, a recommitment to E85 and flex fuel vehicles, restoring fair trade in major global markets, securing the future of the Renewable Fuel Standard, and the development of future policies like a national clean fuel standard or the Next Generation Fuels Act.

“We certainly have our work cut out for us, and we’re going to need your help,” Cooper concluded, using the “Ready. Set. Go!” theme of the event. “If we are going to accomplish these goals, we’ll need your passion and your persistence. Let’s keep this momentum going. It is indeed an exhilarating time to be in the ethanol industry! We are ready for growth because of your tireless advocacy and innovation. And we are set up for success because policymakers are recognizing the promise of low-carbon renewable fuels. And for the first time in many years, we have the wind at our back. So, now it’s time to soar! Let’s Go!”



Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative to give back to membership

Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative will award five $2,000 secondary education scholarships to its membership, the cooperative announced today. Two scholarships will be awarded to students currently enrolled in college or university or a two-year technical, junior or community college.  Three scholarships will be awarded to graduating high school seniors.

Applicants must be high school seniors, high school graduates or college undergraduates. They must be enrolled or planning to enroll in a full-time course of study at an accredited four-year college or university or a two-year program at a technical, junior or community college. The area of study does not need to be agriculture related.
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“Edge believes that education remains the foundation of progress. This program is a testament to that belief,” Chief Executive Officer Tim Trotter said. “By investing back into our members, we not only create opportunities for them but build better rural communities for our farms.”

Only dependents of Edge members qualify.

Scholarship recipients will be selected based on academic achievement, leadership, participation in school and community activities, academic honors, goals and aspirations, recommendations and work experience.

The full application and guidelines can be found on the Edge website. Applications must be submitted through the online application portal by May 1. Online applications can be found here. For more information, contact Lauren Laubscher at 715-584-7117 or llaubscher@voiceofmilk.com.



Comprehensive agronomic guide delivers valuable, research-based insights to farmers

Golden Harvest released its Agronomy in Action 2023 Research Review today to help corn and soybean farmers mitigate risk and adjust management techniques throughout the 2023 growing season and beyond. The book provides a comprehensive review of applied and practical agronomic studies conducted during the 2022 growing season at Golden Harvest Agronomy in Action research sites.

This issue marks the fourth consecutive year of publishing a compilation of research trial results, along with other timely topics. With more than 100 pages of corn and soybean trial results to help farmers make research-based decisions this season, the book provides farmers with a variety of data and recommendations, including some that are specific to the Golden Harvest portfolio.

“There are lots of options when it comes to seed purchasing decisions; but at Golden Harvest, we strongly believe success requires more than just good genetics,” said Syngenta Seeds Technical Agronomy Manager Bruce Battles. “We are devoted to delivering agronomic insights and exemplary service along with every bag of seed.”

The book features 36 insight-packed articles and is organized into five sections with each focusing on a critical factor of farm management:
    Corn Management
    Weather Effects
    Corn Pest Management
    Nutrient Management
    Soybean Management

“Golden Harvest is committed to our farmers and our research,” said Battles. “We are so excited to bring our customers yet another edition of the Agronomy in Action Research Review, so they can access insights and recommendations pertinent to their fields at any time.”

The Agronomy in Action 2023 Research Review is now available for download at GoldenHarvestSeeds.com.