Thursday November 02 Ag News

 UNL faculty continue leadership in creation of national ag data network

A team of University of Nebraska–Lincoln faculty is set to carry forward the third phase of a multidisciplinary initiative to create a network of national ag data repositories. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved funding for the project, in which UNL faculty are taking the lead nationally in coordinating a wide range of academic institutions and ag stakeholders.

The project aims to create a secure cyber framework, supported by appropriate policy and regulations, to enable efficient producer access to precision-ag data assembled by ag equipment, sensors, drones and satellites. That data currently exist separately on a wide range of software platforms.

The planned repository, called the National Agricultural Producers Data Cooperative, would enable producers to retrieve and use the data for maximum efficiency, profitability and environmental sustainability. USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture recently issued a $957,350 two-year grant for the initiative’s third round of funding.

The first phase involved building a community of specialists and stakeholders, and the second phase saw the launch of pilot projects to begin addressing technical and regulatory complications. The third phase expands on those projects and enlarges the pool of academic and private-sector collaborators, says Jennifer L. Clarke, a UNL professor of statistics and food science and technology and director of the university’s Quantitative Life Sciences Initiative.

Ag producers’ needs provide the central guidance for the project. "It’s critical for this project to put producers first," says Clarke, who has a lead role in the NIFA-funded initiative. "It’s crucial that they drive what we develop and how it’s governed and managed."

Stakeholders provided guidance through a survey at the project’s national conference in May at Nebraska Innovation Campus. The project also is soliciting input through a survey sent to stakeholders this fall. A white paper of framework recommendations based on stakeholder input will be released this November.

Additional Husker faculty members with key duties for the ag data initiative are Joe Luck, precision agriculture and biological systems engineering; Laura Thompson, ag extension and farm research; Matt Spangler, beef genetics; Scout Calvert, University Libraries; Hongfeng Yu, advanced cyberinfrastructure and high-performance computing; and Trenton Franz, hydrology and water management.

The project’s ongoing work has shown that in many cases there’s no need to reinvent the wheel. The NIFA-funded initiative is building in part on work begun in 2014 by the Agricultural Data Coalition, for example. "There are already existing parts of infrastructure and existing initiatives that we can leverage," Clarke says. "There is a lot of expertise in the community that we can leverage."

At the same time, the project involves a range of complex challenges. "It’s a complicated space from the standpoint of data ownership and cybersecurity," Clarke says, "so we’re trying to keep those front and foremost."

Tackling the array of issues requires multidisciplinary partnerships. "We need to be on top of a very broad spectrum of things. It requires expertise across multiple areas," Clarke says. "Collaborations are absolutely essential in covering not just science but also policy and ownership issues."

Artificial intelligence issues are receiving increasing national attention, and the ag data project will include them. "It’s good for the public to know we understand the promise of AI but also that we need to be using it responsibly," Clarke says. "So, the project is aware and is proposing input on the use of AI in ag."

UNL beef herds will play an important role in one part of the project as researchers develop strategies to improve management of beef genetics data. That work will be in partnership with two federal repositories, the USDA’s Animal Germplasm Resources Information Network and the Bovine Genome Database, and with the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center at Clay Center, Nebraska.

U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, Nebraska’s senior senator, has provided important support in advocating for continued USDA funding of the initiative, Clark says.



Registration Open for 2023 Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Convention and Trade Show

Today, Nebraska Cattlemen announced registration is available online for the 2023 Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Convention and Trade Show. This year’s event will take place at Younes Conference Center South in Kearney, Neb. from Dec. 6-8.

“Every year, hundreds of Nebraska Cattlemen members and allied industry representatives gather to elect new leadership, shape policy for the upcoming year, and hear from experts about current industry issues,” said Steve Hanson, president of Nebraska Cattlemen. “We look forward to seeing everyone in Kearney as we work together to protect our livelihoods and keep the cattle community strong.”

From carbon credits and extreme weather to Farm Bill updates, attendees will have many opportunities to learn about current events throughout the entirety of Convention. In addition to council and policy committee meetings, attendees will want to check out the trade show in the Crystal Ballroom, as it will be filled industry partners and companies on Wednesday and Thursday.

Further, on Thursday night the annual NC Awards Banquet will honor this year’s Hall of Fame, Industry Service, and Friend of the Foundation award recipients. Following the Awards Banquet, TopShelf Country will be performing live during the banquet dance.

The final day of Convention will kick off with a market outlook presentation by Jeff Stolle, Nebraska Cattlemen’s vice president of marketing. Convention will conclude with the Annual Business Meeting and a Board of Directors meeting.

To read the full 2023 Annual Convention and Trade Show schedule and to register, please visit www.nebraskacattlemen.org/convention-trade-show. Early registration will be available through Thursday, Nov. 30.



ICGA Supports Transparency of Fertilizer Industry

The Iowa Corn Growers Association® (ICGA) has developed language to be added to the Farm Bill that would review competition and transparency of the fertilizer industry. The drafted language would mandate an assessment by the USDA of the pricing practices used by fertilizer companies and the effects of the price increase on both farmers and consumers.

“Over recent years, input costs for farmers have gone up again and again and were crucial topics at grassroots events led by ICGA,” said Jolene Riessen, a farmer from Ida Grove and Iowa Corn Growers Association President. “This assessment would provide transparency of the fertilizer market and help us understand why these increases in price are reoccurring.”

ICGA is hopeful, with the support of Senator Grassley and Ernst, this language will make it into the Farm Bill, as it would provide the USDA with a framework of variables to start a comprehensive study and review of the fertilizer industry and Congress with adequate information on the exertion of market power by companies within the industry.

“By being an ICGA member, I know my voice is being heard when it comes to legislation like the Farm Bill which can directly impact my farm,” added Riessen. To become a member of ICGA and for more information on policy development, visit iowacorn.org/join.



Winter Feeding Workshops Planned for Cattle Feeders

The dry growing conditions of 2022 and 2023 have led to supply and quality issues of hay and other forages in some areas of the state. Cattle producers may be faced with a short supply of hay, corn silage with the potential for nitrates and poor pastures that resulted in stored hay being fed most of the summer. Unfortunately, tight hay supplies will likely lead to higher prices later in the winter feeding period, according to Denise Schwab, beef specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Beef cattle in snow.

"Controlling feed cost while meeting all of the cow’s nutrient requirements requires knowledge of both the feed supply and the animal’s requirements," she said. "Extension beef specialists have developed a series of workshops to help producers plan for their beef cow winter feeding programs."

At each location, beef specialists will discuss the current hay situation, the impacts of the dry conditions on forage quality, potential toxicity concerns, and balancing cow rations in late gestation and early lactation. Topics and speakers will vary by location, so check with the site you wish to attend for information specific to that location. The series flyer has location-specific information for all sites.

Workshop dates, times and locations are as follows. Preregister by calling the host county extension office at the phone number listed for that site.

November
    Nov. 20, 6:30 p.m., Turner Hall, Postville, 563-425-3331.
    Nov. 27, 6:30 p.m., North Iowa Fair 4-H Center, Mason City, 641-231-1711.
    Nov. 28, 6 p.m., ISU Extension and Outreach Marion County office, Knoxville, 641-842-2014.
    Nov. 29, 9:30 a.m., Lohff-Schumann Community Center, Holstein, 712-225-6196.
    Nov. 29, 1 p.m., Grace United Methodist Church, Spencer, 712-262-2264.
    Nov. 29, 6:30 p.m., NERF Borlaug Center, Nashua, 641-231-1711.
    Nov. 30, 1:30 p.m., ISU Extension and Outreach Tama County office, Toledo, 641-484-2703.

December
    Dec. 4, 6 p.m., ISU Extension and Outreach Lucas County office, Chariton, 641-774-2016.
    Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m., ISU Extension and Outreach Jones County office, Monticello, 319-465-3224.
    Dec. 7, 6:30 p.m., ISU Extension and Outreach Dallas County office, Adel, 515-993-4281.
    Dec.12, 6 p.m., Clarke County Fair and Event Center, Osceola, 641-342-3316.
    Dec.13, 3 p.m., Humboldt Vet Clinic, Humboldt, 641-923-2856.

All cattle producers are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact your local ISU Extension and Outreach beef specialist.

The Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University was established in 1996 with the goal of supporting the growth and vitality of the state’s beef cattle industry. It comprises faculty and staff from ISU Extension and Outreach, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and College of Veterinary Medicine, and works to develop and deliver the latest research-based information regarding the beef cattle industry. For more information about IBC, visit www.iowabeefcenter.org.



The Andersons Marathon Holdings Joins RFA as Newest Producer Member

The Renewable Fuels Association is proud to welcome its newest producer member, The Andersons Marathon Holdings LLC. The company, formed by The Andersons Inc. and Marathon Petroleum Corporation, owns four ethanol biorefineries in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Iowa, with a combined production capacity of approximately 475 million gallons of fuel annually. Joining the RFA board to represent the company is Dan Short, Fuels and Low Carbon Policy Manager for Marathon Petroleum.

“Through their joint efforts in the renewable fuels industry over the past two decades, The Andersons and Marathon have successfully demonstrated the powerful synergies between agriculture and energy,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “Together, The Andersons and Marathon have always been on the leading edge when it comes to the production and marketing of low-carbon, renewable ethanol. We are proud to welcome The Andersons Marathon Holdings to our membership and we are excited to continue our work together to expand opportunities for sustainable liquid fuels.”



ACE Supports Legislation to Require EPA to Adopt GREET Model

U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), along with Reps. Angie Craig (D-MN), Mark Pocan (D-WI) and Adrian Smith (R-NE) reintroduced the Adopt GREET Act, which would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to update its outdated lifecycle modeling for ethanol and biodiesel, specifically by adopting the latest Argonne National Lab’s Greenhouse Gas and Regulated Emissions and Energy Use in Transportation (GREET) Model. American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) CEO Brian Jennings issued the following statement:
 
“We appreciate Reps. Johnson, Craig, Smith and Pocan for leading the reintroduction of legislation, which will ensure the global gold-standard modeling tool for lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions will be used to properly value corn ethanol’s carbon footprint when establishing future regulations impacting biofuels. Enactment of this bipartisan bill will ensure ethanol plays a significant role in decarbonizing the transportation sector.

“ACE is focused on helping farmers and ethanol producers maximize their low carbon investments, and while no model can fully replicate real-world activities, GREET is equipped with the best available science on lifecycle GHG emissions of transportation fuels and technologies because the assumptions and estimates used in GREET are under constant peer review and updates to the model occur annually.”

The Senate companion, S. 3055, is led by Senators Thune (R-SD.) and Klobuchar (D-MN).



 Grower Groups Cheer Court’s Defense of Science-based Regulation in Chlorpyrifos Ruling

Agriculture groups are applauding a ruling from the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals that upholds sound science by throwing out the Environmental Protection Agency’s rule that essentially banned the use of chlorpyrifos, a product farmers use to protect their crops from insects and other pests. The decision, in which the court found EPA disregarded its own scientists’ findings by ending numerous uses of chlorpyrifos they determined were safe, vacates the rule and restores agricultural uses of the tool.

Daryl Cates, soybean farmer from Illinois and American Soybean Association president said, “Today’s ruling is a win for agriculture and science-based regulation. Federal agencies cannot be permitted to ignore their own science at the expense of America’s farmers. This ruling will restore safe, effective uses of a tool needed by many growers to protect crops from damaging pests and help preserve an affordable food supply.”

The agriculture groups brought a lawsuit against the agency in February 2022 seeking to restore farmers’ ability to use this tool to protect crops. The groups highlighted that, in EPA’s own records, agency career scientists have found at least 11 high-benefit, low-risk agricultural uses of chlorpyrifos that can be maintained safely.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall said, "AFBF applauds the court’s recognition that EPA failed to follow its own standards when it took an important crop protection tool away from farmers. Growing safe and nutritious food for families across America is the top priority of farmers, and science tells us this tool is safe. Today’s decision sends a message to EPA that it must use sound science when drafting rules.”

“Without chlorpyrifos last year, our growers experienced much higher costs fighting pests. They had to use multiple pesticides applied multiple times with inadequate effectiveness. This court’s ruling supports science-based decisions. It allows our industry to safely use this product to protect our fragile plants and keep our farmers economically viable,” said Nate Hultgren, president of the American Sugarbeet Growers Association.

Growers are eager to have uses of chlorpyrifos restored for the 2024 growing season. Many producers have suffered with the loss of the tool during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, with many needing to spray more pesticides to control an increasing number of pests. Other farmers lost the only effective tool they had to protect their crops from certain economically damaging pests.

Chris Bardenhagen, Cherry Marketing Institute crop management specialist, said, "Chlorpyrifos is our only effective tool for fighting borer pests in cherry orchards, which build up in the trunks and can kill a tree over a short number of years. EPA had previously determined use of this essential product on our trees and the growers’ application methods are safe; this court decision simply ensures EPA will follow its own determination before greater tree loss problems occur.”

The groups also look forward to engaging with EPA during the chlorpyrifos registration review process to ensure critical and safe uses of the tool can be retained in the years to come.



AFBF Celebrates Court Order that EPA Follow Science

The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals granted a major victory to farmers today when it ruled the Environmental Protection Agency must base its decisions on sound science and the law. The court was clear that EPA failed to follow the law when it revoked chlorpyrifos tolerances – effectively banning the pesticide. The American Farm Bureau Federation was one of several agriculture organizations that sued EPA, asserting the agency ignored scientific evidence that proved the pesticide’s safety.

“AFBF appreciates the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals for recognizing that the Environmental Protection Agency failed to follow the law when it revoked the use of chlorpyrifos,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Farmers and ranchers are committed to growing safe and nutritious food, and they use science to guide decisions on how to manage pests and insects. Today’s decision sends a message to EPA that it, too, must use sound science when drafting rules.”



In Big Win for Corn Growers, Commerce Significantly Lowers Duties on Phosphate Fertilizers

The U.S. Department of Commerce today announced it was lowering duties placed on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco from 19.97% to 2.12%. The decision comes after the agency conducted an administrative review of the duties, which is performed annually by retroactively examining the price of shipments and other factors.

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), which has been a vocal opponent of the duties, applauded the decision, calling it a big win for corn growers.

“This victory was made possible by corn growers across the country who spoke out against these duties as they faced skyrocketing fertilizer prices and product shortages at the behest of The Mosaic Company,” said NCGA President Harold Wolle. “While the best duty on fertilizers is no duty at all, we are nonetheless thrilled that corn growers bearing the brunt of these tariffs will feel financial relief thanks to this decision.”

The issue stems from a decision by Commerce in 2020 that favored a petition by the U.S.-based Mosaic to impose duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco and Russia. Mosaic had claimed that unfairly subsidized foreign companies were flooding the U.S. market with fertilizers and selling the products at extremely low prices.

Soon after the decision, NCGA launched an aggressive campaign that called on Commerce to reverse the decision and for Mosaic to withdraw its request for tariffs. Over the past three years, NCGA has led the charge to raise concerns by filing an amicus brief, sending a letter to the White House, and informing Members of Congress about the impact.

In October of this year, the National Corn Growers Association – along with 62 other agricultural groups, including state corn grower organizations – sent a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo calling on her to consider the current difficulties faced by farmers as she recalculates duties on phosphate fertilizer imported from Morocco. That letter and previous actions by corn growers culminated in today’s decision.

In a separate matter, in September, Commerce was ordered by the U.S. Court of International Trade to reconsider the duty rate calculation because of flaws found in Commerce’s analysis. A decision on that matter is expected on Dec. 13.



 Soy Growers' Advocacy Efforts Pay Off as Phosphate Fertilizer Duties Slashed

The U.S. Department of Commerce today announced a significant reduction in duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco, decreasing them significantly from 19.97% to just 2.12%.

The American Soybean Association President Daryl Cates, a soybean farmer from Illinois, welcomed this news, stating, “The Commerce Department’s determination comes after years of engagement by the American Soybean Association in which the soy industry has voiced opposition to duties imposed on phosphate fertilizer imports. Soybean farmers across the country have made their voice heard: These tariffs on fertilizer have had a direct impact on the bottom line of farmers. We appreciate Commerce’s recognition of this impact and its subsequent lowering of duties, and we will continue to advocate against harmful tariffs.”

This issue traces back to a Commerce Department decision in 2020 that favored a petition by the U.S.-based Mosaic company to impose duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco and Russia. Mosaic contended that unfairly subsidized foreign companies were inundating the U.S. market with fertilizers, selling them at exceptionally low prices. ASA took action in March 2021, filing comments with the International Trade Commission to oppose duties being placed on phosphate imports from Morocco and Russia. These comments were submitted in collaboration with the National Corn Growers Association and the National Cotton Council. In response to these duties, ASA led other grower groups in an amicus brief to the Court of International Trade, requesting the CIT remand the duties on phosphate imports from Morocco back to ITC and Commerce for recalculation. That suit was remanded earlier this fall, and ASA awaits that reevaluation later this year.

In October of this year, ASA along with its 26 affiliated state soybean associations united with fellow stakeholders in U.S. agriculture to voice concerns regarding the impact of phosphate fertilizer duties. In a letter addressed to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, these organizations underscored the necessity of reevaluating of these duties, emphasizing their broader implications for American farmers.



Drought Impact and Cattle Industry Dynamics

As drought conditions persist across much of cattle country, farmers and ranchers are at a pivotal juncture in the cattle industry’s landscape. What impact does this prolonged dry spell have on the nation’s herd numbers? When will heifer retention begin? How will industry dynamics influence the spring bull sale season?

Heavy on the minds of those in the cattle business, there is no crystal ball. But there are historical patterns and data to help make decisions today.

Randy Blach, CEO of CattleFax, gave a comprehensive update of the ongoing drought’s impact during the 2023 Certified Angus Beef (CAB) Annual Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Drought Influences on Herd Numbers
Cow-calf producers particularly affected by the ongoing drought encompass states like Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas and Arkansas.

"We have seen a change in the weather pattern moving from a La Niña weather pattern to an El Niño," Blach says. "But our central southern plains region is still struggling with some terribly dry areas, particularly from Kansas, south."

While there is some herd rebuilding in the central and northern plains, 2023 is still anticipated to be a year marked by herd liquidation. Blach says he expects a surge in heifer retention over the next 12 to 24 months, supporting a strong demand for high-quality bulls in the forthcoming spring bull sale season.

Cow-Calf Segment’s Focus on Quality and Profitability
For the commercial cow-calf segment, quality remains paramount, despite the high value of feeder cattle. Recent years have witnessed elevated input costs, including hay and grain, driving up production expenses.

According to Blach, due to the drought, most cow-calf producers are forced to only operate at a 60 to 75% stocking rate. However, with the recent decrease in hay and grain prices, it is likely to lower the cost of gain.

"When we look at the grid premiums on what producers are getting paid for, we are going to have the biggest grid premiums in the history of our industry this year," Blach says.

As reported in March 2022, premiums paid by packers to producers for brand-qualifying cattle totaled $182 million annually, or $3.5 million per week. This significant increase in grid premiums further emphasizes the outlook for producers in the beef industry, as they are set to receive record-high payments for their cattle.

Increased pressure in the industry looks to establish a more sustainable and profitable environment for cow-calf producers, who have endured several years of limited profitability. Their economic viability is pivotal to ensuring a stable supply chain for the entire cattle industry.

Blach emphasizes the importance of quality genetics.

"The market is going to sort out the best genetics from the ones that are not quite there yet," he says. "So, I think producers need to understand that the market has become very focused on finding the genetics that will help individual commercial producers hit that final target levels for grid premiums."

Beef Demand and Retail Prices
As the industry navigates these intricate dynamics, there’s another critical component that comes into focus— the redefined landscape of beef demand and its intertwined relationship with retail prices.

"Beef demand remains strong," he affirms, adding, "And the market wants high quality beef."

We have seen a slight erosion in sales at high-end white tablecloth restaurants, while casual dining and bar-restaurant businesses continue to show strength in sales. This indicates that there is likely some trade-down taking place as consumer budgets are pinched.

At the retail level, there has been an advertising slow-down in beef features or weekly specials offered to consumers. This is largely attributed to retailers’ narrower profit margins resulting from the surge in fed cattle and wholesale market prices.

"As retail margins have been squeezed, it’s being reflected in less ad feature activity," Blach says. "We see the beef industry has lost 3% of the total ad space year-to-date, 1% compared to the five-year average."

Remarkable Progress
From past to present, Blach acknowledges the remarkable success of CAB in the past two decades.

"When you go back over time in the ‘80s and '90s, it was a flip of the coin for consumers buying a steak on whether it was going to be a good eating experience or a poor one," he says. "We’re currently not in that same business with quality grade having improved from about 50% Choice and Prime to 83% Choice and Prime, largely due to leadership from CAB and others in industry focusing on quality."

Today, a substantial portion of beef produced falls into the Choice and Prime categories, yielding significant grid premiums for producers.

"CAB is a high-quality, tremendous eating experience that people are willing to pay for," Blach says.

As farmers and ranchers look to a herd rebuild, the importance of genetic decisions and cattle production remain ever-important for driving retail beef demand.



Mission To Germany, Poland Builds On Council’s Bioethanol Efforts In EU

U.S. Grains Council (USGC) staff traveled to Germany and Poland last week to expand support for bioethanol within the European Union (EU) and explore potential markets in the region. Pictured from left to right are Isabelle Ausdal, USGC manager of ethanol policy and economics; Adam Stepien, director general, Polish Association of Oil Producers; and Mackenzie Boubin, USGC director of global ethanol export development.

In the 2022/2023 marketing year, the European Union (EU) emerged as the second-largest market for U.S. bioethanol, and the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) is continuously working at the EU Commission- and member-state levels to build alliances and increase awareness of bioethanol and its benefits in the region. Last week, the Council conducted a mission to Germany and Poland, aiming to expand support for bioethanol within the EU and explore potential markets in area.

This mission comes at a time when individual member- state countries are becoming more vocal about the challenges and barriers associated with meeting EU Commission-level policies such as the hotly debated phase out of the new sales of combustion engines by 2035 and the implementation of the newest Renewable Energy Directive III (RED III), while some member countries are still struggling to implement the previous RED II. In Leipzig, Germany, Council staff participated in the 7th Business Meeting of the International Energy Agency (IEA) Technology Collaboration Platform’s (TCP) Task 39 on biofuels, where member countries and USGC met to discuss joint projects coming in the next three-year term.

“The IEA plays a crucial role in promoting energy security, offering data and analysis, providing policy guidance and fostering international collaboration on renewable energy. USGC values its science-based partnership with the IEA and looks forward to continuing our contributions to showcase the need for biofuels to achieve and exceed climate goals into 2050 and beyond,” said Isabelle Ausdal, USGC manager of global ethanol policy and economics.

In Warsaw, Poland, the Council initiated discussions with policy officials and local stakeholders to gain insights into the bioethanol market and policy dynamics and increase awareness of bioethanol within the region. Poland has sold E5 since 2011, and in May 2023, Poland's parliament took a significant step forward in its commitment to renewable energy by unanimously approving amendments to its energy legislation to mandate the use of E10-blended gasoline nationwide starting in January 2024. Additionally, in July 2023, Poland made a significant move by filing an appeal with the European Court of Justice to challenge recent EU legislation aimed at phasing out the sale of new internal combustion engine cars by 2035. Poland had been the sole dissenting vote against these targets, arguing that because the regulation impacts member states' energy mixes, it should have required a unanimous decision.

“Exploring markets like Poland and continuing work with the IEA enhances the Council’s role in global bioethanol promotion while it serves as the trusted and passionate ambassador for free and fair trade between the U.S. bioethanol industry and stakeholders around the world,” Ausdal said.



Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards Final Rule Publishes in Federal Register

On October 25, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack previewed the Organic Livestock and Poultry Standards (OLPS) final rule. Today, the OLPS final rule has published in the Federal Register.

The final rule establishes clear, strong and consistent standards for organic livestock and poultry production, levels the playing field for organic livestock farmers, ranchers and businesses and promotes fairer, more competitive markets for their products.

OLPS outlines more consistent standards in these six areas:
    Outdoor space.
    Indoor and outdoor living conditions.
    Poultry stocking densities.
    Preventative health care practices.
    Physical alterations and euthanasia.
    Transport, handling, and slaughter.

View the OLPS Final Rule https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/organic-livestock-and-poultry-standards

On Thursday, November 16, 2023, at 1:00pm Eastern, NOP will hold an informational webinar to provide an overview of the changes this rule makes to the USDA organic regulations and how they may impact organic farms and businesses.

Webinar Details:
    Thursday, November 16, 2023, at 1:00pm, Eastern Time
    Zoom link: https://www.zoomgov.com/s/1601705879
    Join by phone: US: +1 669 254 5252  or +1 551 285 1373  or +1 646 828 7666  or +1 646 964 1167  or +1 669 216 1590  or +1 415 449 4000
    Webinar ID: 160 170 5879
    International numbers available: https://www.zoomgov.com/zoomconference?m=MTYwMTcwNTg3OQ.aIj2tqAC0OfSYm7tzmoJSelqu347rr0B
    Or an H.323/SIP room system:
    H.323: 161.199.138.10 (US West) or 161.199.136.10 (US East)
    SIP: 1601705879@sip.zoomgov.com



CF INDUSTRIES' NET SALES DOWN 41%, EARNINGS DOWN 50%: $1.25 BILLION

CF Industries Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CF), a leading global manufacturer of hydrogen and nitrogen products, today announced results for the first nine months and third quarter ended September 30, 2023.

Highlights
*First nine months 2023 net earnings of $1.25 billion(1), or $6.42 per diluted share, EBITDA(2) of $2.15 billion, and adjusted EBITDA(2) of $2.17 billion

*Third quarter 2023 net earnings of $164 million, or $0.85 per diluted share, EBITDA of $372 million, and adjusted EBITDA of $445 million

*Trailing twelve months net cash from operating activities of $2.86 billion and free cash flow(3) of $1.96 billion

*Agreement with POSCO Holdings, Inc., to evaluate a joint venture to construct a low-carbon clean ammonia plant at CF Industries' Blue Point Complex in Ascension Parish, Louisiana, United States, along with long-term low-carbon clean ammonia offtake into South Korea

*Repurchased 1.9 million shares for $150 million during the third quarter of 2023

"The CF Industries team continues to execute well," said Tony Will, president and chief executive officer, CF Industries Holdings, Inc. "Global nitrogen industry fundamentals remain favorable and forward energy curves suggest attractive margin opportunities for the foreseeable future.

"As a result, we expect to continue to drive strong cash generation, underpinning our ability to create long-term shareholder value through disciplined investments in growth opportunities and returning substantial capital to shareholders."



Secretary Vilsack Highlights USDA’s Commitment to Future Generations in Agriculture

Today, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack addressed students, agricultural educators, and guests at the opening session of the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo before signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the organization formalizing a partnership to prepare more students for careers in food, agricultural science, natural resources, and related fields.

In his remarks, Secretary Vilsack shared USDA’s vision to secure the future of American agriculture and opportunities for the next generation of agricultural leaders. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that farms of all sizes have the opportunity to succeed. This starts by transforming our agriculture system to one that lifts up small and mid-sized farms, strengthens local rural economies, and enhances our food security and safety to create value and opportunity for all producers and communities.

While at the convention, Secretary Vilsack and Scott Stump, chief executive officer of the National FFA Organization, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to underscore the Department’s commitment to youth in agriculture.

“Yesterday, I joined President Biden on a family farm in Minnesota to highlight how the Biden-Harris Administration’s investments are bringing new revenue to farms, increased economic development in rural towns and communities, and more opportunity throughout the country,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Visiting the National FFA Convention as my second stop on the Administration’s Investing in Rural America Event Series was a natural choice. Today’s youth will help create tomorrow’s food system, one that encourages all producers to succeed. The MOU signed today comes at a key time to strengthen USDA’s involvement with the National FFA Organization and its valuable education mission. Through our partnership, we will continue working together to prepare young people to pursue careers in agriculture.”

“At National FFA, we are preparing our students to be tomorrow’s leaders in agriculture,” said Scott Stump, chief executive officer of the National FFA Organization. “We are very appreciative of Secretary Vilsack’s dedication to agricultural education and FFA. It is why we were honored to present him with the Honorary American FFA Degree. Through this MOU that we are signing today, USDA helps us continue growing the next generation of leaders as the industry continues to evolve. Together, we can engage today’s youth and empower them to fill the needs in the agriculture talent pipeline. We look forward to our partnership and the ability to share our ideas with USDA.”

Under the newly signed MOU, USDA commits to building awareness of the reach and importance of agriculture across multiple fields and disciplines, as well as communicating available USDA internship opportunities to the National FFA Organization members and alumni. USDA will also identify areas where a student or youth perspective may benefit USDA programs and resources and engage with FFA to provide such representation.

The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 945,000 student members as part of 9,163 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. As the largest student-led organization in the nation, the National FFA Organization operates on local, state, and national levels. Under the MOU, the National FFA Organization agrees to attract, educate, inspire, and equip students with the tools needed to succeed. Approximately 70,000 FFA members and supporters are attending the convention.

This partnership builds on USDA’s many partnerships to find solutions to the challenges facing rural and underserved communities and connect those communities to the education, tools, and resources available to them through USDA programs and initiatives. Learn more about USDA’s work to support youth in agriculture at the Youth in Agriculture web page.

At the convention, Secretary Vilsack was also awarded the Honorary American FFA Degree. This award is bestowed upon individuals who have provided exceptional service on a national level to agriculture, agricultural education, or FFA. He also participated in a roundtable discussion with a group of young leaders in agriculture from across the country.



American Angus Association offers internship opportunities

In a world full of opportunity, internships allow students to take a trial-run of potential career paths. The American Angus Association® is excited to announce five internship positions for the summer of 2024. These 10-week internship programs provide an immersive, hands-on experience, encouraging students to grow professionally as they dip their toes into the workforce.

"What makes an internship at Angus so unique is that the Angus family believes in your ability to achieve a level of high success from day one," said Brooklyn Botterman, 2023 events and junior activities intern. "I respect and admire this level of trust in an internship and believe it allowed me to reach my full potential while interning this summer. The professional and personal growth that is acquired during your time with Angus is invaluable."

Internships allow students to gain industry-relevant knowledge and refine their skills, but the value of networking and working alongside the team at the Association will likely prove just as worthwhile. The summer 2024 internship experience will be filled with Angus cattle, tasty beef and a staff eager to share their expertise.

The five internships being offered are:
Angus MediaSM – Marketing: This position will provide valuable experience in email marketing, graphic design, digital advertising, social media content creation and data analytics. The intern will work alongside an experienced team to develop skills and contribute to real cattle producers’ marketing campaigns and success. Applicants should demonstrate an excitement and passion for Association work and the cattle industry. Previous management or oversight of business social media accounts is preferred.

Angus MediaSM – Publications: This writing-intensive opportunity offers the chance to join a multi-media effort, which includes the Angus Journal® print publication and the AJ Daily electronic newsletter, as well as the Angus Journal’s website and social media presence. The internship can be tailored to the intern’s strengths, but many duties can be anticipated, including traveling to industry events. Experience in news and feature writing, editing and photography are strongly suggested.

Communications: From feature stories to video scripts, photography, graphic design and more, the communications intern will truly gain broad agricultural communications experience. Applicants should have strong writing and design skills and have completed coursework in news and feature writing, editing and design. Experience in photography, video and social media is preferred.

Events & Junior Activities: The intern will assist in planning and executing youth events hosted by the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA), including preparation, correspondence and coordination for junior shows and events. Applicants should be self-starters, detail-oriented and outgoing with the ability to work well with others. Livestock and event planning experience is preferred, but not required. Travel to the 2024 National Junior Angus Show (NJAS), Leaders Engaged in Angus Development (LEAD) Conference and other events is expected.

Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI®): Students pursuing their master’s degree or Ph.D. in animal breeding and genetics are encouraged to apply for the AGI summer internship. The intern will have the opportunity to work with one of the world’s largest beef genomic databases. The internship will focus on research that involves data analysis, therefore candidates should have experience in analyzing animal breeding data sets and genomic data.

For more information and a full description of each internship opportunity, visit angus.org/careers. Students who wish to apply should submit their resume, cover letter and references by December 1.

If students prefer to spend their summer on the ranch, the Angus Foundation is accepting applications for the Angus/Talon Youth Educational Learning Program internship. The Talon internship program provides college-aged students the unique opportunity to spend their summer on an Angus operation. Interns gain extensive ranching knowledge while enhancing their skills as advocates for the beef industry. Students interested in participating in the program can learn more at bit.ly/AngusFoundationTalonProgram, and should also apply by December 1.



Merck Animal Health Announces Availability of SEQUIVITY® IAV-S NA for Swine Influenza

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), today announced that SEQUIVITY® IAV-S NA (Swine Influenza Vaccine, N1 and N2, RNA Particle) vaccine is commercially available as part of its swine product portfolio. The company received license approval for the vaccine from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 2022.

The SEQUIVITY IAV-S NA vaccine is the first commercial vaccine that uses only the influenza neuraminidase (NA) surface antigen to vaccinate pigs against influenza strains H1N1, H1N2 and H3N2. The NA RNA particles in the vaccine are produced using the innovative SEQUIVITY platform technology from Merck Animal Health that previously has been used to target existing and emerging swine pathogens.

“Merck Animal Health is excited to bring this important innovation to our customers as it demonstrates our mission to bring forward solutions to solve swine disease challenges and improve animal health,” said Channing Sebo-Decker, D.V.M., swine technical services veterinarian, Merck Animal Health. “The SEQUIVITY IAV-S NA vaccine represents a novel technological advancement and creates a new tool for influenza control programs.”

The frozen vaccine is mixed with Microsol Diluvac Forte® adjuvant at point of use. Pigs can be vaccinated as early as three days of age followed by a booster three weeks later. The duration of the immunity against the H1N1 subtype is at least 12 weeks post-booster dose. The licensing trials demonstrated that the vaccine was safe and significantly reduced IAV-associated lung lesions and nasal shedding against five challenge strains from the H1N1, H1N2 and H3N2 subtypes.

SEQUIVITY IAV-S NA vaccine is available in 50-dose and 250-dose presentations.



Red Trail Energy Partners with Puro.earth to Generate Voluntary Carbon Removal Credits
Contact RPMG for Purchase Inquiries

Red Trail Energy (RTE), a North Dakota bioethanol plant operator, will be the first and largest proven production facility in the U.S. to bring high-quality, third-party verified, carbon dioxide (CO2) removal credits from bioethanol CO2 capture and storage to the voluntary carbon market. The credits are expected to be certified through carbon removal standard and registry Puro.earth to ensure key environmental and carbon accounting criteria are met.

The CO2 Red Trail Energy sequesters from the fermentation process at their plant in Richardton will be available as removal credits to help proactive firms achieve their long-term sustainability or carbon net-zero targets. There will be an initial offering of credits in the coming weeks. Interested counterparties can purchase the credits in a Request for Proposal (RFP) for prompt and future offtakes through Red Trail Energy’s marketing firm Renewable Products Marketing Group (RPMG).

One of the first bioenergy facilities in the U.S. with carbon capture and storage technology (BECCS), RTE began capturing the estimated annual output of 180,000 metric tons of CO2 directly from the fermentation process in 2022. The CO2 is stored locally in a state-certified Class VI well approximately 6,500 ft directly beneath the facility into the Broom Creek Formation.

Red Trail’s project is anticipated to be certified through Puro.earth’s Geologically Stored Carbon methodology as net-negative, verified, and audited by a third-party for life cycle analysis. The Puro.earth issued CO2 Removal Certificates (CORCs) will indicate 1,000+ years of carbon sequestration providing the key environmental criteria of permanence and additionality. For traceability and transparency, CORCs are issued in the Puro Registry where their complete lifecycle is recorded, from issuance to retirement, as emphasized by the Integrity Council for the Voluntary Carbon Market (IC-VCM) and International Carbon Reduction and Offsetting Accreditation (ICROA).

Red Trail Energy’s successful project launch has been years in development and is a historic milestone in the race to a sustainable, carbon-neutral future using carbon dioxide removal technology and provides a proven, immediate solution to combat the worse impacts of climate change.