Monday April 3 Crop Progress & Ag News

 NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending April 2, 2023, there were 4.6 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 20% very short, 36% short, 39% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 37% very short, 41% short, 22% adequate, and 0% surplus.

Field Crops Report:
Winter wheat condition rated 8% very poor, 30% poor, 40% fair, 19% good, and 3% excellent.

Oats planted was 8%, near 12% last year and 9% for the five-year average.

Data for this news release were provided at the county level by USDA Farm Service Agency,
UNL Extension Service, and other reporters across the State.



IOWA CROP PROGRESS REPORT

Colder than normal temperatures for the week left Iowa farmers with 1.6 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending April 2, 2023, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Parts of the State still reported frost in the topsoil, while select counties in southern and eastern Iowa experienced hail and tornadoes. Although minimal fieldwork occurred over the last week, some producers were able to apply anhydrous, manure, and dry fertilizer. A few instances of oat seeding were reported.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 2 percent very short, 15 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 7 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 6 percent very short, 25 percent short, 64 percent adequate and 5 percent surplus.

Feedlots were drying out and calving continued. Overall livestock were faring well, although there were reports of livestock injuries from the severe weather in isolated areas.



First USDA Crop Progress Report of the Season

In its first weekly national Crop Progress report of 2023 released on Monday, NASS estimated U.S. winter wheat condition at just 28% good to excellent, below the previous decade-plus low of 30% last year at this time. And with dry, windy conditions expected in the region the rest of this week, the crop appears unlikely to see much relief anytime soon.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Crop condition: Nationwide, winter wheat was rated 28% good to excellent, 2 percentage points below last year's rating at this time of 30%. Top winter-wheat producer Kansas' crop was rated just 16% good to excellent with 57% rated very poor to poor. Colorado winter wheat was rated 27% good to excellent and 33% very poor to poor. Oklahoma's and Texas' crops were rated at 26% and 18% good to excellent, and 40% and 47% very poor to poor, respectively.

-- Crop development: 6% of winter wheat was headed nationwide as of Sunday. That's 2 percentage points ahead of last year's 4% and 4 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 2%. Texas' winter wheat was 29% headed, ahead of the average of 20%.

CORN
-- Planting progress: 2% nationwide as of Sunday, May 2, equal to both last year and the five-year average. Texas was the furthest ahead with 57% of its intended corn acres planted, just ahead of the state average of 54%.



2023-2024 Nebraska State FFA Officer Team Announced
 
Seven FFA members were announced to the 2023-2024 Nebraska State Officer Team at the final
session of the 95th Nebraska FFA Convention. The 2023-2024 Nebraska State Officers are:
State President - Thomas Perrin, Ogallala FFA Chapter
State Secretary - Alex Boudreau, Minden FFA Chapter
State Vice President - Keetyn Valentine, David City FFA Chapter
State Vice President - Paige Bunn, North Bend FFA Chapter
State Vice President - Braydon Binger, Hay Springs FFA Chapter
State Vice President - Abby Hodges, Johnson-Brock FFA Chapter
State Vice President - Bethany Nichols, Bridgeport FFA Chapter

The new state officer team will spend the next year traveling across Nebraska, different parts of the
country, and even internationally to promote the agriculture industry, agriculture education, and
FFA. They will get to host leadership training for FFA members, assist with contests, visit FFA
Chapters, go on industry tours, and much more.



NEBRASKA FARM INCOME PROJECTED TO RISE AFTER FALLING IN 2022

Net farm income in Nebraska for 2022 is projected to have fallen to $7.2 billion before rising modestly to $7.3 billion in 2023, according to a report produced by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability and the University of Missouri’s Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center.

Drought impacts across the state contributed to a reduction in projected net farm income in Nebraska when compared to a forecast produced last fall, before the full extent of drought losses had been realized.

According to Brad Lubben, extension policy specialist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability and a co-author of the report, Nebraska’s ag sector has taken a different path than U.S. agriculture since 2021.

“After record farm income in 2021, U.S. farm income projections point to an even higher record for 2022 before falling back in 2023,” Lubben said. “Nebraska, on the other hand, took the fall in 2022 due to drought losses and thus may hold relatively steady for 2023, as growing conditions presumably return to normal.”

The report projects that crop receipts in the state will decrease by $1.9 billion this year. Despite a growth in receipts brought on by strong commodity prices in 2022, lower projected prices for most commodities in 2023 are expected to contribute to the decrease in income. Planted corn acres are estimated to rise 5% this year, but lower corn prices are expected to reduce corn receipts by $1.4 billion. Soybean acres are anticipated to be down 3% this year, and the combination of lower acres and lower prices point to an expected $400 million fall in soybean receipts. Any lingering drought concerns that could hurt hay and wheat yields in 2023 could also further hurt 2023 farm income prospects.

Livestock receipts in Nebraska are projected to increase by $300 million in 2023, driven by higher expected cattle and calf receipts, which the report projects to rise by $506 million. This is despite tight inventories caused by ongoing herd liquidation in the state, which is being offset by higher prices this year. Hog and pig receipts are estimated to decline $117 million due to weaker prices and less marketing. And lower egg and milk prices are expected to contribute to a combined $96 million reduction in dairy, poultry and egg receipts.

Total production expenses in the state are forecast to increase only 2% in 2023, following double-digit increases in both 2021 and 2022. Following two years of sharp increases in fertilizer expenses — up to $791 million in 2022, a 43% increase over 2021 — expenses are expected to level off in 2023. The same is anticipated for feed expenses, which increased by $513 million in 2022. Fuel and oil prices are expected to fall modestly this year.

The Nebraska Farm Income Outlook Report is co-published by the Center for Agricultural Profitability and the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center (RaFF) at Missouri, which provides objective policy analysis and informs decision-makers on issues affecting farm and rural finances.

“RaFF’s state-level insights are critical for decision-makers,” RaFF interim director Scott Brown said. “By understanding the factors impacting farm income, and how producers and rural communities are affected, sound decisions on programs and policies can be formed.”

More information and the full report are available on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website, https://cap.unl.edu/farm-income.



DARI LLC, Launches MOO’V™ - A Lactose-Free, High-Protein, Low Sugar, Naturally Flavored Milk Beverage for Kid’s Health
 
DARI LLC, a trailblazer in the dairy industry announces the launch of their new line, MOO’V™, an ultra-filtered, lactose-free, whole milk beverage that consumers will be able to find in three satisfying flavors.

MOO’V™ is a high protein, low sugar beverage delivering optimized nutritional benefits to kids. The revolutionary approach of using natural flavors to enhance the already delicious taste of milk provides a drink with no need for additional sugar or added colors. Plus, the lactose-free, whole milk formula allows for easy digestion and sustainable energy. The new 14oz grab-and-go drink provides 19 grams of protein and only 7 grams of naturally occurring sugars.

Knowing there is a growing need for healthy and functional drinks, especially for kids, this is the time for the dairy industry to step in and revolutionize the space with the power of real milk. This trend is seen with existing lactose-free flavored milks, but oftentimes those products, targeted to kids, counter the benefits of milk by adding unnecessary sugar. MOO’V loses the sugar and delivers the great taste of Vanilla Ice Cream, Strawberry Cream, and Cinnamon Swirl Horchata with natural flavors.

This line of beverages has been in development for over three years by a 4th generation family farm, committed to delivering high quality, great taste, and convenient real milk drinks to consumers. In addition to having a functional drink for parents to provide to their children, DARI seeks to provide an entertaining experience to kids through their creative packaging design. On each bottle, they will learn something unique about where their food comes from, the nutritional value of real milk and they will experience an entertaining surprise from a dancing cow named Morgan, a 3D augmented reality character for smartphones and similar devices.

Comment Dan Ellsworth, DARI CEO
“We have been very pleased with the reactions from parents regarding the nutritional benefits of MOO’V. In addition, the kids love the taste and seem to really resonate with the idea of experiencing the brand. It’ll just be a question if the kids get to drink it before the parents find out how great the product tastes!”

Throughout the development of the product key support has been provided by the Dairy Checkoff and the Center for Dairy Research with current product trends and consumer insight for the innovation of this product.

MOO’V ultra-filtered, lactose-free, low-sugar beverage can be found in Hy-Vee grocery stores along with many convenience stores throughout the Upper Midwest. You can learn more about our product and our farm at Dari & Moo'v (realdari.com).

About DARI LLC
DARI LLC is a Midwest farmer based food company with locations in Nebraska and Wisconsin. They are focusing on the delivery of functional foods to consumers through highlighting the nutritional value of real milk with traceability back to individual farms. Whether it is fuel to get through the day or fuel to get through a stage of life, our calling is to provide the most complete source of nutrition, from our family farm to consumers. Milk is Fuel for Life.  



Beef industry experts, producers, agri-business leaders named to Nebraska Beef Innovation external advisory committee  

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s history in beef production systems is marked with over 100 years of excellence within the department of animal science, and the journey to enhance and continue to build resilient beef systems in the state is far from over.   

In order to leverage the systems-based efforts underway at Nebraska, 23 beef industry experts, agri-business leaders, and producers have been named to an external advisory committee of Nebraska Beef Innovation, who will provide guidance to the university regarding key regional and broader opportunities and issues within the beef industry in Nebraska and beyond.   

“The University of Nebraska has made a commitment towards integrated beef systems and assembled an amazing team of teachers, researchers, extension personnel and it’s a unique opportunity to make a tremendous difference in how we look at beef systems,” said Clay Mathis, Director of the King Ranch Institute for Ranch Management, and co-chair of the external advisory committee.   

Committee co-chairs Mathis, and Homer Buell representing the Ag Builders of Nebraska will lead industry experts, producers and agribusiness leaders to prioritize Nebraska’s greatest opportunities and communicate them to faculty and administration. The committee will serve to provide input for exceptional outcomes for Nebraska’s beef industry, which is uniquely positioned at the epicenter of beef production.   

“Nebraska is stepping out and putting forth a focused, purposeful initiative that is serving not only the beef producers of Nebraska, but the beef producers of North America,” said Mathis.   

“Our work at Nebraska in collaboration with other institutions better serves the stakeholders in this industry that we love.”  

Capitalizing on world-renowned research, teaching, and extension efforts already in place, Nebraska’s Beef Innovation Hub will serve as the place where conversations and solutions occur to support sustainable and robust beef production. The Hub’s vision is environmentally sound, resilient, socially responsible, and economically viable beef for Nebraska and beyond.   

Nebraska seedstock producer, external advisory board member and alumnus of Nebraska’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, David Schuler says he believes Nebraska has the right people in the right places to help build agriculture.   

“I hope Nebraska continues down the path that I’ve seen the last ten years, focusing on the importance of agriculture. We’ve got some big challenges in the beef industry. We need to continue to make sure the voice of the beef industry is heard,” said Schuler.   

The external advisory committee brings to Nebraska Beef Innovation a wealth of expertise and diverse perspectives:   
    Homer Buell, Nebraska Rancher, member of Nebraska Cattlemen and Ag Builders of Nebraska, and co-lead of the Beef Innovation Hub external advisory committee.  
    Clay Mathis, Director, King Ranch Institute for Ranch Management, Texas A&M Kingsville, TX, and co-lead of the Beef Innovation Hub external advisory committee  
    Charlie Arnot, CEO Look East, Center for Food Integrity, Gladstone, MO.  
    Abram Babcock, President, Adams Land and Cattle, LLC, Broken Bow, NE.  
    McKenzie Beals, Associate Veterinarian, D.V.M., Broken Bow Animal Hospital, Broken Bow, NE.   
    Mark Boggess, Director, US Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE.  
    Mike Drury, President, Greater Omaha Packing, Omaha, NE.  
    Laura Field, Executive Vice President, Nebraska Cattlemen, Lincoln, NE.  
    Alicia Hardin, Wildlife Division Administrator, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Lincoln, NE.  
    Kevin Hennessy, Director of Perishables, B&R Stores, Inc., Lincoln, NE.  
    Jess Hinrichs, Beef Technical Services Veterinarian, D.V.M, Zoetis, Sutton, NE.  
    Jud Jesske, Vice President, Capital Markets, Farm Credit Services of America, Lincoln, NE.  
    Chris Kalkowski, Vice President, First National Bank of Omaha, Omaha, NE.  
    Shelly Kelly, Executive Director, Sandhills Task Force, Broken Bow, NE.  
    Ginger Langemeier, Legislative Affairs Coordinator, Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit, Lincoln, NE.  
    Rob Mitchell, Location Coordinator and Research Leader, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Lincoln, NE.  
    Jeff Nichols, State Rangeland Management Specialist, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, North Platte, NE.  
    Trey Patterson, CEO, Padlock Ranch, Ranchester, WY.  
    Logan Pribbeno, President, Wine Glass Ranch, Inc., Imperial, NE.  
    Tim Schellpeper, President, Fed Beef Business Unit, JBS USA, Stanton, NE.  
    David Schuler, Ranch Manager, Schuler-Olsen Ranches, Inc., Bridgeport, NE.  
    Adam Smith, Forestry and Fire Bureau Chief, Nebraska Forest Service, Lincoln, NE.  
    Craig Uden, Darr Feedlot Inc., Agri Steer Inc., Owner, Cozad, NE.  

    To learn more about the Nebraska Beef Innovation, visit the website https://beefinnovation.unl.edu/, or connect with Beef Innovation on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.    



Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association Meeting is April 10th
Dan Kellner, President, Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association

Spring is in the air, which means planting is just around the corner! Please join us for an informational meeting:

Monday, April 10, 2023
Pre-Planting Meeting
Saunders County 4H Building
6:30 PM Social Time
7:00 PM Dinner

Sponsors and speakers are:
Starborn Feeds - Karsten and Kelly Storm, Yutan
BeautyView Dairy Farm & Products - Konecky Family, Wahoo
Farmers Mutual United Insurance - Bobby Virgl, Wahoo
Dragonfly Insurance - Leon Binstock, Wahoo
Lower Plate North NRD - Eric Gottschalk, General Manager, will talk about the Wahoo Creek Water Shed plans.

Please help us recognize the 2023 Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association Scholarship winners, Trenton Barry, Hannah Johnson, Thomas Vrana, Evan Hartman, and Lucas Christensen.

There are a few who have not paid dues, please get a hold of one of your directors to get those paid.

The Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association Twilight Tour is being planned for June 26, 2023. Details to follow.



ALFALFA SEED SELECTION
– Todd Whitney, NE Extension Educator

The new free publication, “2023 Winter Survival, Fall Dormancy & Pest Resistance Ratings for Alfalfa Varieties” is now available online at: https://alfalfa.org through the Alfalfa and Forage Alliance. For Nebraska producers, the two most serious alfalfa diseases are Anthracnose and Phytophthora root rot. Both disease symptoms are most devastating on susceptible alfalfa varieties. Therefore, proper seed selection will be the first disease management line of defense. Select improved seed varieties with at least a moderate to high resistance to anthracnose and Phytophthora root rot to effectively prevent yield and stand losses. Also, consult your seed representative to get the best protection for your alfalfa fields.

Anthracnose can appear anytime of the year on any age of alfalfa stand. Affecting stems and crowns, this disease can move rapidly and lower forage production in as little as one to two growing seasons. In some cases, disease stress can reduce alfalfa’s ability to with stand cold temperatures resulting in winter or spring kill.

Phytophthora root rot is the most common root rot affecting all stages of alfalfa causing seedling death. This pathogen can cause seedling damping off in new stands followed by plant death in wet conditions in as little as a few days. In established stands, Phytophthora root rot causes taproot lesions resulting in up to a 50% yield loss and progressive decline over time and potential kill.

More alfalfa disease management information is available on our UNL Extension website: https://cropwatch.unl.edu Also, positive alfalfa disease identification can be confirmed by submitting samples to our UNL Extension Plant& Pest Diagnostic Clinic.



April is Soy Foods Month

Join soybean growers and consumers across the nation in celebrating Soy Foods Month this April.

The United States is one of the top soybean producing countries in the world. Generally, more than 80 million acres of soybeans are grown in the country each year, and farmers are dedicated to meeting the world’s demand for this important crop in a sustainable way. Through soil and water conservation, crop rotation, and carbon net neutrality goals, U.S. soybean farmers provide nutritious, versatile, and sustainable food to people across the globe.

Soy is praised for its health benefits, including its ability to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol. Its protein and oil, both conventional and high oleic varieties, carry heart health claims from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that states twenty-five grams of soy protein or 20.5 grams of soybean oil daily as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition to heart health benefits, soy foods may also improve cognitive function, lower blood pressure, enhance muscle and bone health and reduce risk of some cancers.

Another one of soy’s strengths is its versatility. From more traditional soy foods like tofu, edamame and tempeh to modern soy foods such as plant-based alternatives and soy protein bars, there is a soy product for every palate. It’s also commonly used as an ingredient in snack foods like potato chips cooked in soybean oil and chocolate bars where soy lecithin is used as a stabilizer and flavor protector.

Celebrate Soy Foods Month by incorporating more of this high-quality protein into your diet. Here are a few ideas:
• Try new soy foods! Tofu isn’t the only soy-based food at the grocery store. Enjoy popping edamame out of the pods for a snack, or add some protein into your pancakes with soy flour.
• Simple swaps: Start your day with a soy-based yogurt or serve soymilk with your favorite breakfast cereal.
• Seek out soy on the label: Most vegetable oil on store shelves is 100% soybean oil. Soybean oil is recognized for its heart health benefits, and it also has a neutral flavor and high heat stability, making it an excellent choice for cooking, baking, sautéing, and more.

“Soy foods are a great way to add healthful nutrients to your diet and support Nebraska farmers,” said Andy Chvatal, Nebraska Soybean Board executive director. “Whether you eat soy directly by sipping soymilk or enjoy soy second-hand though a pork chop or a chicken breast, you are supporting U.S. and Nebraska soybean farmers.”

For more information about soybeans and soy foods, visit nebraskasoybeans.org and ussoy.org.



Monthly Dairy Webinar April 19 to Focus on This Year’s Alfalfa Season

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy Team monthly webinar series continues on Wednesday, April 19 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. This program will focus on this year’s alfalfa season.

Mike Rankin will share what he sees in the hay and alfalfa market plus what things are looking like out in the field.

Mike Rankin joined Hay & Forage Grower as the managing editor in April 2015. He had previously served 27 years as the Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin crops and soils agent with the University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension Service.

Producers, dairy consultants, and industry reps are encouraged to attend the free webinar live from noon to 1:00 p.m. on April 19 by pre-registering at least one hour before the webinar at: https://go.iastate.edu/KUKNGK.

For more information contact the ISU Extension and Outreach Dairy Field Specialist in your area: in Northwest Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230 or fredhall@iastate.edu; in Northeast Iowa, Jennifer Bentley, 563-382-2949 or jbentley@iastate.edu; in East Central Iowa, Larry Tranel, 563-583-6496 or tranel@iastate.edu.



IEDA Led Trade Mission to Vietnam, Philippines

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and a 15-member delegation have just returned from a trade mission to Vietnam and the Philippines. The mission, coordinated by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), included representation from Iowa’s livestock and grain organizations as well as other agricultural associations. The purpose of the mission was to encourage trade development, bolster partnerships and identify opportunities to expand export markets.

In 2022, Iowa companies exported $227 million in agricultural goods to Vietnam and $273 million to the Philippines. Southeast Asia has considerable trade potential, and Vietnam, as one of the fastest growing feed markets in the world, and the Philippines, as the region’s second most populous country with a need for consistent food access, both offer trade and industry development opportunities.

Vietnam and the Philippines both ranked in the top 10 U.S. agricultural export markets in 2022. Vietnam was the second largest soybean meal market for U.S. exports in 2022, and the Philippines had become the major U.S. ethanol importer for the region as the ninth largest market in 2021. Beef and pork exports are also a key market while the region’s animal protein consumption is expected to increase by 20% over the next five years.

“Vietnam and the Philippines are already important trading partners for Iowa, but we have an opportunity to increase our market share because of their growing populations and our longstanding reputation as a dependable, proven, and consistent supplier of high-quality products,” said Secretary Naig. “Our global customers welcome the opportunity to meet with Iowa farmers, and these relationships will benefit us long-term as we seek to sell more Iowa corn, pork, soybeans, beef, biofuels and many other products.”

The Iowa ag delegation visited areas in and around Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam and Manila, Philippines, from March 24 – April 1. The business meetings included trade policy updates, information sessions on Iowa’s agricultural industry and business development discussions. The delegation included Iowa companies from the ag processing industry and representatives from the Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Corn, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association and the Iowa Soybean Association. IEDA worked with the U.S. Grains Council, U.S. Meat Export Federation and U.S. Soybean Export Council to identify business prospects for the mission.

IEDA’s International Trade Office connects Iowa companies with markets for their products and services, educates Iowa businesses on exporting and assists global companies wishing to establish or expand operations in Iowa. To find out more about these services or other trade missions, visit iowaeda.com.



Study Demonstrates Red Meat Exports’ Value to Corn and Soybean Industries

A record value of beef and pork exports brought significant returns to the U.S. corn and soybean industries in 2022, according to an independent study conducted by World Perspectives, Inc. and released by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). U.S. pork and beef exports contributed an estimated total economic impact of 15% per bushel to the value of corn and 13% per bushel to soybeans in 2022, according to the study.

“For every bushel of corn we marketed in 2022, a little over $1 was attributed to red meat exports and with soybeans, pork exports contributed $1.94 per bushel,” says USMEF Chair Dean Meyer, who produces corn, soybeans, cattle and hogs near Rock Rapids, Iowa. “Pork and beef exports bring critical support to our bottom lines.”

Corn and soybean growers support the international promotion of U.S. pork, beef and lamb by investing a portion of their checkoff dollars in market development efforts conducted by USMEF.

“We are a major exporter of corn and soybeans but this study reminds us of the value of our indirect exports of corn and soybeans through pork and beef,” says Dave Juday, senior analyst for World Perspectives. “The contributions of pork and beef exports to the per-bushel value of U.S. corn and soybeans in 2022 were the highest estimates we’ve seen to date. And that was critically important, as corn and soybean farmers worked to maintain margins with higher input costs across the board.”

Key findings from the study, which utilized 2022 statistics provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service and data analysis by World Perspectives, include:

Exporting corn through U.S. beef and pork
    Beef and pork exports accounted for 503.4 million bushels of U.S. corn usage, which equated to a market value of $3.4 billion (at an average corn price of $6.75 per bushel).
    Beef and pork exports accounted for 3.42 million tons of DDGS usage, equating to $834 million (at an average price of $244 per ton).
    Beef and pork exports contributed an estimated total economic impact of 15%, or $1.01, of bushel value in 2022 at an average price of $6.75 per bushel.

Exporting soybeans through U.S. pork
    Pork exports accounted for 89.7 million bushels of U.S. soybean usage, which equated to a market value of $1.33 billion (at an average price of $14.83 per bushel).
    Pork exports contributed an estimated total economic impact of 13% of bushel value, or $1.94, in 2022 at an average price of $14.83 per bushel.

Handouts detailing the impact of red meat exports at the national level and on the leading corn-producing and soybean-producing states are available from the USMEF website.



USDA Oilseed, Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production - Feb 2023

Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 5.31 million tons (177 million bushels) in February 2023, compared with 5.73 million tons (191 million bushels) in January 2023 and 5.23 million tons (174 million bushels) in February 2022. Crude oil produced was 2.09 billion pounds down 7 percent from January 2023 but up 1 percent from February 2022. Soybean once refined oil production at 1.68 billion pounds during February 2023 decreased 3 percent from January 2023 but increased 8 percent from February 2022.

Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 444 million bushels in February 2023. Total corn consumption was down 10 percent from January 2023 and down 3 percent from February 2022. February 2023 usage included 91.9 percent for alcohol and 8.1 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 3.36 million bushels, down 45 percent from January 2023 and down 17 percent from February 2022. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 400 million bushels, was down 9 percent from January 2023 and down 2 percent from February 2022. Corn consumed in February 2023 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 91.5 percent and 8.5 percent, respectively.

Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.56 million tons during February 2023, down 9 percent from January 2023 and down 8 percent from February 2022. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.16 million tons in February 2023, down 8 percent from January 2023 and down 11 percent from February 2022.

Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 247,817 tons during February 2023, down 8 percent from January 2023 but up 4 percent from February 2022. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 185,051 tons in February 2023, down 11 percent from January 2023 and down 3 percent from February 2022.



USDA Dairy Products February 2023 Production Highlights

Total cheese output (excluding cottage cheese) was 1.11 billion pounds, 0.4 percent above February 2022 but 7.9 percent below January 2023. Italian type cheese production totaled 460 million pounds, 1.4 percent below February 2022 and 8.0 percent below January 2023. American type cheese production totaled 453 million pounds, 2.4 percent above February 2022 but 9.1 percent below January 2023. Butter production was 186 million pounds, 1.6 percent above February 2022 but 7.4 percent below January 2023.

Dry milk products (comparisons in percentage with February 2022)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 178 million pounds, up 4.5 percent.
Skim milk powder - 38.2 million pounds, up 28.9 percent.

Whey products (comparisons in percentage with February 2022)
Dry whey, total - 66.5 million pounds, down 5.3 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 83.1 million pounds, down 10.4 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 36.7 million pounds, down 9.8 percent.

Frozen products (comparisons in percentage with February 2022)
Ice cream, regular (hard) - 59.1 million gallons, up 7.7 percent.
Ice cream, lowfat (total) - 32.3 million gallons, up 4.5 percent.
Sherbet (hard) - 2.31 million gallons, down 8.3 percent.
Frozen yogurt (total) - 4.29 million gallons, up 0.5 percent.



Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and CoBank invest $1 million in K-State College of Agriculture’s innovation centers

Four Kansas Farm Credit Associations and CoBank recently combined to give $1 million to support the Kansas State University College of Agriculture's innovation centers for grain, food, animal and agronomy research.

This investment will fund new facilities, renovations of current buildings and improvements in the technology and equipment necessary for interdisciplinary, cutting-edge research, all of which will continue to enhance the college's exceptional student experience.

"An investment in Kansas State University's innovation centers is an investment in the future of U.S. agriculture," said Bob Campbell, senior vice president of Frontier Farm Credit, speaking on behalf of Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and CoBank. "The university is focused on solving some of today's biggest challenges in agriculture. The projects funded through our donation will enhance the university's leadership in global food systems and bio-security innovations and directly benefit producers and agri-businesses. We are proud to partner with Kansas State University in a shared mission of supporting agriculture and rural communities for today and tomorrow."

Contributors to this investment are Farm Credit of Western Kansas, Colby; High Plains Farm Credit, Larned; Frontier Farm Credit, Manhattan; and CoBank and American AgCredit, both in Wichita.

This investment supports the university's interdisciplinary research initiative, which brings together the brightest minds from across the K-State campus to collaborate and work with agricultural leaders from the state and region.

"Our vision for our new infrastructure project is to create state-of-the-art space to bring many of our departments together for interdisciplinary research," said Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension. "The opportunities and challenges we face in agriculture are complex in nature and increasing in number globally. We need to bring the best minds to the table with different skills and knowledge to collaborate, integrate and develop innovative solutions that prepare the next-generation workforce to keep agriculture moving forward."



Growth Energy Launches Campaign to Protect Summer Savings with E15

Growth Energy announced a new ad campaign today calling on President Biden’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure uninterrupted access to cleaner, more affordable E15 fuel during the fast-approaching summer driving season. The seven-figure campaign will include television and digital advertising in Washington, DC and in major biofuel-producing states.

“The clock is ticking, and we need the administration to act swiftly to ensure fuel savings from E15 do not disappear from gas stations this summer,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Immediate action on a summer waiver would signal relief at the pump for consumers and provide retailers with the certainty they need to fully commit to offering E15 over the summer ahead. That’s why we’re rallying grassroots supporters, retail partners, and elected leaders across the heartland to protect access to fuel savings with E15.”
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“Last year, thanks to action by the Biden administration, E15 saved drivers nearly a dollar per gallon in some areas, with savings averaging to $0.16 per gallon across the country,” added Skor. “Russia’s war in Ukraine, low crude oil inventories, and other supply issues continue to drive volatility in our fuel markets, and we need President Biden to act again.

To learn more about the campaign or send a note to lawmakers, Growth Energy urges biofuel supporters to visit GrowthEnergy.Org/E15.



USDA Announces April 2023 Lending Rates for Agricultural Producers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced loan interest rates for April 2023, which are effective April 3, 2023. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide important access to capital to help agricultural producers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs.

Operating, Ownership and Emergency Loans
FSA offers farm ownership and operating loans with favorable interest rates and terms to help eligible agricultural producers, whether multi-generational, long-time, or new to the industry, obtain financing needed to start, expand or maintain a family agricultural operation. FSA also offers emergency loans to help producers recover from production and physical losses due to drought, flooding, other natural disasters or quarantine.  For many loan options, FSA sets aside funding for underserved producers, including veterans, beginning, women, American Indian or Alaskan Native, Asian, Black or African American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, and Hispanic farmers and ranchers.

Interest rates for Operating and Ownership loans for April 2023 are as follows:
    Farm Operating Loans (Direct): 4.750%
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct): 4.750%
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct, Joint Financing): 2.750%
    Farm Ownership Loans (Down Payment): 1.500%
    Emergency Loan (Amount of Actual Loss): 3.750%

FSA also offers guaranteed loans through commercial lenders at rates set by those lenders.

To access an interactive online, step-by-step guide through the farm loan process, visit the Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov.

Commodity and Storage Facility Loans
Additionally, FSA provides low-interest financing to producers to build or upgrade on-farm storage facilities and purchase handling equipment and loans that provide interim financing to help producers meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are low.  Funds for these loans are provided through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and are administered by FSA.

Commodity Loans (less than one year disbursed): 5.875%

Farm Storage Facility Loans:
        o Three-year loan terms: 4.375%
        o Five-year loan terms: 4.000%
        o Seven-year loan terms: 4.000%
        o Ten-year loan terms: 3.875%
        o Twelve-year loan terms: 3.875%
    Sugar Storage Facility Loans (15 years): 4.000%

Simplified Direct Loan Application
FSA developed a new, simplified direct loan application for producers seeking a direct farm loan. The new application, reduced from 29 to 13 pages, provides improved customer experience for producers applying for loans and enables them to complete a more streamlined application. Producers now also have the option to complete an electronic fillable form or a traditional paper application for submission to their local FSA service center.

Pandemic and Disaster Support
FSA broadened the use of the Disaster Set-Aside (DSA), normally used in the wake of natural disasters, to allow farmers with USDA farm loans who are affected by COVID-19, and are determined eligible, to have their next payment set-aside. Because of the pandemic’s continued impacts, producers can apply for a second DSA for COVID-19 or a second DSA for a natural disaster for producers with an initial DSA for COVID-19. The set-aside payment’s due date is moved to the final maturity date of the loan or extended up to 12 months in the case of an annual operating loan. Any principal set-aside will continue to accrue interest until it is repaid. Use of the expanded DSA program can help to improve a borrower’s cashflow in the current production cycle.

FSA also reminds rural communities, farmers and ranchers, families and small businesses affected by the year’s winter storms, drought, hurricanes and other natural disasters, that USDA has programs that provide assistance. USDA staff in the regional, state and county offices are prepared to deliver a variety of program flexibilities and other assistance to agricultural producers and impacted communities. Many programs are available without an official disaster designation, including several risk management and disaster recovery options.

Inflation Reduction Act Assistance for Distressed Producers
On Aug. 16, 2022, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) into law. It is a historic, once-in-a-generation investment and opportunity for the agricultural communities that USDA serves. Section 22006 of the IRA provided $3.1 billion for USDA to provide relief for distressed borrowers with certain FSA direct and guaranteed loans and to expedite assistance for those whose agricultural operations are at financial risk.  In October 2022, USDA provided approximately $800 million in initial IRA assistance to more than 11,000 delinquent direct and guaranteed borrowers and approximately 2,100 borrowers who had their farms liquidated and still had remaining debt. In April 2023, USDA intends to provide a new round of relief starting that will include approximately $123 million in automatic financial assistance for qualified direct and guaranteed borrowers. Qualifying borrowers will receive an individual letter detailing the assistance as payments are made. Eligibility for these new categories of automatic payments include:  
    Assistance to direct loan borrowers who were past due on a qualifying direct loan as of September 30, 2022, but by fewer than 60 days, and remained delinquent on that loan as of March 27, 2023.
    Assistance to borrowers who restructured a qualifying direct loan after February 28, 2020, through primary loan servicing available through FSA.
    Assistance to borrowers whose interest owed on their qualifying direct loan debt exceeds the principal owed (on a loan-by-loan basis)

For more information producers can contact their local USDA Service Center or visit farmers.gov/inflation-reduction-investments/assistance.

More Information
Producers can explore available options on all FSA loan options at fsa.usda.gov or by contacting their local USDA Service Center.