Monday December 04 Ag News

Pillen Joins Letter Calling for Halt to Foreign Land Grabs

Governor Jim Pillen has joined 16 Republican governors in calling on President Joe Biden, the U.S. Congress, and other federal leaders to take necessary action protecting states from being targeted in land grabs by foreign, adversarial nations. While some states have passed legislation to restrict foreign land ownership, the governors say more needs to happen at the national level.

“These governments are 100% adversarial and enemies of the U.S., strategically buying up our property for their own benefit and purposes,” said Gov. Pillen. “We have turned a blind eye for too long to this threat – one that has the potential to impact our security, our businesses, and here in Nebraska, the number one driver of our economy – agriculture.”

“For too long we have allowed dangerous and adversarial governments to infiltrate our country,” stated the governors’ letter. “Our States will tolerate such allowances no longer.”

Earlier this year, Gov. Pillen issued an executive order banning the state of Nebraska and its contractors from using communications equipment and services produced by technology companies owned or controlled by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). That was followed by a bill passed by a bipartisan group of state lawmakers, signed by the Governor in May.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Partners with Nebraska Farm Business Inc. to Offer Comprehensive Farm Analysis

Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) understands that the business of food production has tight margins and farmers and ranchers need the best tools available to help them understand their costs, make sound financial decisions, and rise above their competition. This is why the Nebraska Farm Bureau is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership aimed at empowering its farmer and rancher members with cutting-edge tools for comprehensive farm analysis.

“This strategic move underscores Nebraska Farm Bureau's unwavering commitment to supporting agricultural farm and ranch families in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of modern farming,” said Nebraska Farm Bureau President Mark McHargue. “In recognition of the challenges faced by farmers and ranchers, Farm Bureau has partnered with Nebraska Farm Business Inc. to provide a 10 percent discount on their farm analysis service, which would be a savings of around $200 per member. Indirectly, farm and ranch operations using this service could add on average $20,000 per year on their bottom line.”

The Nebraska Farm Business Inc. farm analysis tool offers an all-inclusive approach, providing valuable insights into crop and livestock management, resource utilization, and financial planning.

“We are excited to partner with Nebraska Farm Bureau in this venture. The Farm Financial Analysis reviews cash basis records and converts them to accrual basis to give true financial health for your farm operation. Nebraska Farm Business, Inc., can benchmark a farm/ranch operation to other producers of similar size, age, and type of production agriculture. The Farm Financial Analysis helps a farmer or rancher understand their costs and make sound financial decisions to make the operation better,” said Tina Barrett, director/farm financial consultant for Nebraska Farm Business Inc. “Most importantly, this program will help farmers and ranchers communicate their financial situation to family members, financial lenders, and other partners in their business.”

Nebraska Farm Bureau and Nebraska Farm Business Inc. advocate for the use of a farm analysis tool to allow lenders to be more comfortable that the data provided for a farm/ranch is complete and accurate. The data is well organized and formatted for easy use and fast analysis. Best of all, it helps educate the farmer and rancher on his/her financial performance. Yielding success through financial management could easily yield $10,000 to $20,000 per year for the average farm operation.

"We understand the dynamic nature of agriculture and the vital role technology plays in modern farming. By providing our members with advanced farm analysis tools that include bench marketing your farm or ranch with others in the Midwest, members can build a strong family farm legacy and look to the future of their agriculture business," McHargue said.

This initiative aligns with Nebraska Farm Bureau's mission to advocate for and to offer new services for farmers and ranchers, to continue to build a bright future for Nebraska agriculture. . Nebraska Farm Bureau members are encouraged to explore and leverage this new member benefit to maximize productivity, mitigate risks, and achieve long-term success in their operations. Go to www.nefb.org to learn more.



Nebraska Corn Board Seeks Candidates for Vacancies

Notice is hereby given that the terms for three members of the Nebraska Corn Development, Utilization and Marketing Board (Nebraska Corn Board) will expire June 30, 2024, and Nebraska’s corn checkoff program is seeking candidates to petition for those districts. The open positions represent Districts 6, 7 and 8.
    District 6 – Includes the counties of Hayes, Frontier, Gosper, Phelps, Kearney, Hitchcock, Red Willow, Furnas and Harlan (Note: Ted Schrock, the current District 6 director, has indicated he will pursue re-appointment.)
    District 7 – Includes the counties of Boyd, Holt, Antelope, Garfield, Wheeler, Boone, Platte, Valley, Greeley and Nance. (Note: John Krohn, the current District 7 director, has indicated he will pursue re-appointment.)
    District 8 – Includes the counties of Sioux, Dawes, Box Butte, Sheridan, Scotts Bluff, Banner, Kimball, Morrill, Cheyenne, Garden, Deuel, Cherry, Keya Paha, Brown, Rock, Grant, Hooker, Thomas, Blaine, Loup, Arthur, McPherson, Logan, Custer, Keith, Lincoln, Perkins, Chase and Dundy. (Note: Andy Groskopf, the current District 8 director, has indicated that he will pursue re-election.)

Appointments to the board for these three districts are made by the Governor of Nebraska. Any candidate seeking appointment may place his or her name on the candidacy list by filing a petition with the Nebraska Corn Board. Qualified candidates include those individuals who are citizens of Nebraska, reside in an open district, are at least 21 years old, have been actively engaged in growing corn in Nebraska for a period of five years and derive a substantial portion of their income from growing corn. Board members who currently represent these districts are also eligible to re-petition.

Petitions may be obtained by writing the Nebraska Corn Board (245 Fallbrook Blvd. Suite 204, Lincoln, NE 68521), by calling 402-471-2676 or emailing ncb.info@nebraska.gov. A candidacy petition must carry the signatures of at least 50 corn producers from that district. All petitions must be received by the Nebraska Corn Board no later than 5:00 p.m. central time on Friday, May 17, 2024. Faxed copies do not qualify.
 


Nebraska Soybean Association Annual Meeting  - January 22,  2024— Holthus Conference Center, York NE
    
Nebraska Soybean Association members are invited to participate in the grassroots activities of discussing policy resolutions for the coming year at NSA’s annual meeting on Monday, January 22, 2024, at the Holthus Conference Center in York, NE. The meeting begins at 8:30 am. A complimentary lunch  will be served with keynote speaker Andrew Pritchard Senior Meteorologist Atmospheric Sciences for Nutrien Ag Solutions giving a presentation on “Understanding Disruptive Weather Patterns & 2024 Weather Signals.”  
       
 During the annual meeting, District Director elections will be conducted.  Elections will be held for the following Districts: District  2 representing the counties of Antelope, Boyd, Cedar, Holt, Knox, Madison, & Pierce. Current director  Lucas Miller is eligible for a 2nd term.  District 7 representing the counties of Adams, Buffalo, Clay, Fillmore, Franklin, Hall, Jefferson, Kearney, Nuckolls, Saline, Thayer, & Webster.  Current director Wade Walters is eligible for a 3rd term.  At Large director, Myles Ramsey is eligible for a 3rd term, and At Large director Shane Greving terms off, therefore this seat will be up for election. Individuals interested in serving as an NSA director must be a producer of soybeans and live or farm in one of the counties represented in the District and be a current member of the NSA.  Candidates should be willing to be involved in the legislative and policy development process and be engaged with membership recruitment.   

If you would like more information on the director responsibilities or to submit your name for consideration, contact Lori Luebbe in the NSA office at 402-441-3239 or email lori@nebraskasoybeans.org by  December 29th.   Policy resolution ideas can be submitted to your district director for consideration or contact the NSA office.  No pre-registration is required for NSA members to attend the annual meeting.  



NASCAR Cup Series Race Named Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol

Iowa Corn is proud to be the entitlement partner of the first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race in the state. The Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol, will showcase the performance of ethanol at the fastest short-track on the planet, which is surrounded by corn fields.

“I am pleased to share with the NASCAR family, why choosing higher blends of ethanol benefits everyone,” said Stan Nelson, a farmer from Middletown and the Iowa Corn Promotion Board President. “We can make a sustainable difference today, without buying a whole new vehicle, but by simply choosing to fuel up with ethanol at the pump. And not only are we benefiting the environment but also our economy, as ethanol is the most affordable renewable fuel option on the market today.”

Grandstand tickets and camping for the Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol, are sold out and only a select number of tickets remain for the NASCAR Xfinity Series and ARCA Menards Series races on the World’s Fastest Short Track. Remaining tickets can be purchased by visiting www.iowaspeedway.com and fans are encouraged to secure them now while supplies last.

Fans looking to buy or sell reserved seats for the Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol, should visit SeatGeek, the Official Ticket Marketplace of NASCAR.

The Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol, will take place at 6 p.m. CT, Sunday, June 16, 2024, and be shown live on USA Network. This inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race at Iowa Speedway culminates a weekend that will also include a NASCAR Xfinity Series race at 2:30 p.m. CT, Saturday, June 15, on USA Network and ARCA Menards Series racing on Friday June 14.

All three series are scheduled to be on track starting on Friday, June 14, prior to the ARCA Menards Series event.

“The Iowa Corn 350, Powered by Ethanol, will give us as farmers a platform across the country to share the benefits of ethanol with consumers and fans,” said Jolene Riessen, a farmer from Ida Grove and the Iowa Corn Growers Association President. “We know that a partnership like this is unique and will be impactful! With the audience NASCAR captures, Iowa Corn will be able to share the benefits of ethanol while also showcasing farmers from our great state.”

To learn more about Iowa Corn and the farmers that grow it, visit iowacorn.org.



Crop Advantage Series to Help Producers Make Decisions for 2024 Growing Season

The 2024 Crop Advantage meetings will give producers a solid foundation of current research-based crop production information to help make smart, informed decisions for their farming operation.

The meetings are an opportunity for farmers and crop advisers to hear current research and crop production information from Iowa State University. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach specialists will travel to 12 locations around Iowa from Jan. 3-30, providing updated management options and recommendations on crop production issues facing Iowa growers.

Meetings include continuing education credits for Certified Crop Advisers and pesticide applicator recertification. All sites offer private pesticide applicator continuing instruction as well, for an additional fee.

“This program series allows Iowa State University Extension and Outreach specialists to meet with farmers across the state. We’re excited to provide the quality, in-person education farmers have come to expect,” said Josh Michel, field agronomist with ISU Extension and Outreach.

Over 1,500 individuals attended one of the Crop Advantage meetings across Iowa in 2023, representing all 99 Iowa counties and surrounding states. Approximately 85% of attendees said information from Crop Advantage would likely save them between $5 and $20 per acre.

“Our goal is always to prepare producers to manage potential issues when they arise, or even before they arise, by sharing the most up-to-date scientific knowledge from Iowa State University researchers,” said Michel. “Each location’s program is unique as content is driven by local needs and production issues.”

Program topics vary by location and are selected for regional issues. Topics on this year’s agenda include crop market outlooks for 2024, nutrient management updates, soybean gall midge, climate outlooks, corn and soybean disease management updates, weed management issues and many more. For locations, times and program details visit www.aep.iastate.edu/cas.

2024 meeting dates and locations
    Jan. 3 – Sheldon.
    Jan. 4 – Storm Lake.
    Jan. 5 – Mason City.
    Jan. 10 – Ankeny.
    Jan. 11 – Burlington.
    Jan. 16 – Cedar Falls.
    Jan. 18 – Atlantic.
    Jan. 19 – Davenport.
    Jan. 23 – Okoboji.
    Jan. 24 – Templeton.
    Jan. 25 – Coralville.
    Jan. 30 – Le Mars.

Early registration for each location is $75; late registration made fewer than seven days prior to the meeting, or on site, is $100. Registration includes lunch, refreshment breaks and CCA credits. Online registration and additional information are available at www.aep.iastate.edu/cas. For more information, contact ANR Program Services at 515-294-6429, or anr@iastate.edu, or contact your regional ISU Extension and Outreach field agronomist.



Register Today for the 2024 Farm Forward Conference, Powered by the Iowa Soybean Association
 
Farm Forward, an interactive and farmer-focused event powered by the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA), will be held Tuesday, Jan. 30, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Downtown Marriott in Des Moines. Registration is available at no additional cost and open at iasoybeans.com.
 
Programming will reveal how changes in domestic and international markets are continuing to impact the value of Iowa’s soybean crop. Industry experts will also pencil out what factors could influence the future of Iowa’s bioenergy sector, soybean breeding, markets and more.
 
“The Farm Forward event is an exclusive opportunity for Iowa soybean farmers to better understand and navigate the many production and market forces shaping our industry,” said Michael Dolch, ISA senior director of public affairs. “Farmers who attend this event are not just preparing for the next season; they are positioning themselves at the forefront of agricultural innovation and market strategy for years to come."
 
Soybean farmers will also hear unique panel sessions covering:
    Iowa’s evolving biofuels landscape
    Global soybean trade dynamics
    Farm margins, planting decisions and market outlook
    Emerging soybean breeding techniques and research

Confirmed speakers include keynote Frank Kelly, founder and managing partner of Fulcrum Macro Advisors, Greg Northrup, president of Verbio NA Holdings Corp and Doug Struyk, attorney with Carney and Appleby Law. Also, Christie Wiebbecke, ISA senior director of research, Matt Herman, ISA senior director of renewable products marketing, Michael Dolch, ISA senior director of public affairs and more.
 
Attendees will also receive a ticket to the Iowa Ag Expo, formerly known as the Iowa Power and Farming Show, held at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines. To register or view the full agenda, visit iasoybeans.com.



IEDA Leads Ag Trade Mission to Colombia

Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Grant Menke and a 20-member delegation have returned to Iowa from a trade mission delegation to Colombia. The delegation included representation from Iowa’s livestock and agricultural associations and meat processing industry. Coordinated by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), the mission encouraged trade development, bolstered business relationships and identified opportunities to expand export markets.

Colombia’s economy is the fourth largest and its population of 52 million people is third largest in Latin America. The country has experienced steady economic growth, which has created stronger investment ties to the U.S., with agriculture exports as the leading indicator for that development. In 2022, Iowa exported $549 million in goods to Colombia. The country ranks second in Latin America – and in the top 10 overall – as an export destination for Iowa corn, pork and beef. Colombia also is a significant importer of Iowa soybeans, soybean meal, ethanol and dried distillers grains. The region shows promising opportunities for import growth across most ag sectors.

“The fast-growing agriculture trade relationship between the United States and Colombia over the past decade has been a success story for both nations that holds even greater potential,” said Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Grant Menke. “This Colombia trade mission was a timely and important opportunity for our well-rounded Iowa agriculture delegation to see progress, share ideas, strengthen partnerships and explore possibilities for expanded Iowa ag exports in this key South American market.”

The Iowa ag delegation visited Bogotá and Medellín from November 26 to December 2. During the trip, the group had meetings to promote Iowa’s high-quality corn (including ethanol and dried distillers grains), soybeans (including soybean meal), pork and beef products. IEDA arranged group events, industry and business development meetings and cultural exchanges with government officials, importers and processors. In addition, an Iowa ag reception was held at the U.S. Embassy in Colombia on November 28.

IEDA worked with in-country partners, the USDA Foreign Ag Service, U.S. Meat Export Federation, U.S. Grains Council and U.S. Soybean Export Council to organize the mission’s trade discussions.

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.



USDA Dairy Products October 2023 Highlights

Total cheese output (excluding cottage cheese) was 1.19 billion pounds, 0.8 percent above October 2022 and 3.9 percent above September 2023. Italian type cheese production totaled 506 million pounds, 1.4 percent above October 2022 and 5.6 percent above September 2023. American type cheese production totaled 474 million pounds, 0.3 percent below October 2022 but 2.5 percent above September 2023. Butter production was 161 million pounds, 0.9 percent below October 2022 but 12.5 percent above September 2023.

Dry milk products (comparisons in percentage with October 2022)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 127 million pounds, down 1.2 percent.
Skim milk powder - 42.5 million pounds, down 34.9 percent.

Whey products (comparisons in percentage with October 2022)
Dry whey, total - 75.6 million pounds, up 0.4 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 91.4 million pounds, down 0.1 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 40.3 million pounds, up 2.5 percent.

Frozen products (comparisons in percentage with October 2022)
Ice cream, regular (hard) - 57.9 million gallons, down 2.6 percent.
Ice cream, lowfat (total) - 32.8 million gallons, down 8.1 percent.
Sherbet (hard) - 1.73 million gallons, down 20.2 percent.
Frozen yogurt (total) - 4.05 million gallons, up 5.8 percent.



U.S. Agricultural Exports in Fiscal Year 2024
Forecast at $169.5 Billion; Imports at $200.0 Billion

U.S. agricultural exports in fiscal year (FY) 2024 are projected at $169.5 billion, down $2.5 billion from the August forecast. This revision is primarily driven by reductions in grain and feed, as well as livestock, poultry, and dairy exports. Wheat exports are forecast down $800 million to $6.0 billion on lower unit values and ongoing competition from Russia and the European Union (EU). Corn exports are forecast down $500 million to $12.8 billion due to lower unit values, as ample global supplies continue to ease prices. Sorghum exports are projected $200 million lower due to a smaller U.S. crop. Overall grain and feed exports are projected to decrease by $1.3 billion to $37.5 billion.

Livestock, poultry, and dairy exports are forecast to decrease by $1.3 billion to $36.3 billion due to declines across most products. Beef exports are projected $300 million lower to $8.2 billion due to continued tight U.S. supplies. Pork exports are forecast down $300 million to $6.6 billion on weaker demand from most Asian markets. Poultry and products are projected down $200 million to $6.6 billion due to lower broiler meat volumes.

Dairy products are forecast down $200 million to $7.2 billion on decreased price competitiveness. Soybean exports are projected $500 million lower from the August forecast to $26.0 billion on lower exportable supplies. Overall oilseed and product exports are forecast at $37.2 billion, down $300 million as decreases in soybean and soybean oil exports more than offset an increase in soybean meal exports. Cotton exports are forecast at $5.7 billion, down $100 million due to lower unit values. The forecast for ethanol exports is raised by $300 million to $3.6 billion due to higher volumes more than offsetting lower unit values. Horticultural product exports are unchanged at $39.5 billion.

Agricultural exports to China are forecast at $29.5 billion, down $500 million from the August projection. Exports to Mexico and Canada are forecast at $27.9 billion and $27.7 billion, respectively.

U.S. agricultural imports in FY 2024 are forecast at $200.0 billion, up $500 million from the August projection, largely driven by the strong U.S. dollar and resilient domestic demand for agricultural imports, especially for beef and veal, vegetable oils, and grain products.

The forecasts in this report are based on policies in effect at the time of the November 9, 2023, World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) release and the U.S. production forecasts thereof.

Full report can be seen here: https://www.ers.usda.gov/publications/pub-details/?pubid=108031.  



Beef Price Action Before Christmas
David P. Anderson, Extension Economist, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

While there have been some ups and downs, the Choice beef cutout has generally trended lower since it hit its peak back in June. The weekly average peak in mid-June was $339.93 per cwt. but the Choice cutout has averaged right at $300.00 per cwt for the year, 13.6 percent more than last year. While the cattle and calf markets have been on a wilder ride lately, the weekly cutout has ranged from $307 to $297 since mid-September. Underlying the cutout value are individual primal cuts that have their own seasonality to them driven by holidays, changing seasons, and supplies.

The primal rib value hit $573 per cwt last week, its highest value of the year, and higher than the $515 per cwt last year at this time. The primal rib typically increases this time of year heading into the holidays. Wholesale ribeyes have increased as well, hitting $13.46 per pound last week.

The loin primal hit its peak at $495.95 per cwt back in mid-year, as is normal. The primal loin value was $388.14 per cwt last week and has crept up a little over the last few weeks. Wholesale strip loins also peaked in mid-year at $10.58 per pound.

Primal chucks and rounds have fallen dramatically in value since the end of October. The round has declined from $271 per cwt to $230 last week. Over the same period, the chuck has declined from $265 to 238 per cwt. While lower, they remain well above last year.

Short plates and flanks have declined sharply, much like the chuck and round. The short plate has been on a remarkable run this year, from highs over $270 per cwt to $169 per cwt last week. In mid-year, the short plate was the 3rd highest value primal following only the rib and loin. Flank values had a similar run this year, peaking mid-year at $234 before declining steadily to $131 per cwt last week. The flank is the only primal currently with a value lower than last year’s at this time.

Overall, primal beef values are exhibiting their regular seasonal price behavior. The middle meats, largely the rib, are increasing in value while the end meats are declining in value. For the year, each primal has averaged from 3.4 percent (brisket) to 15.1 percent (loin) more than last year.  



NCBA Trade Show is One More Reason to Attend CattleCon24

There are plenty of reasons to attend CattleCon24 in Orlando, Florida, but the NCBA Trade Show is at the top of the list for many. More than eight acres of exhibitors, displays and educational experiences will welcome attendees Jan. 31-Feb. 2, 2024.

The NCBA Trade Show offers opportunities to network, learn, shop, dine and connect with friends, both old and new. More than 350 exhibitors will showcase the latest advancements, from equipment and technology to pharmaceuticals and feed supplements, all conveniently located under one roof. In addition to finding the right product or service to solve any problem, there are a variety of educational opportunities within the show.

Cattle Chats will feature 20-minute beef industry educational sessions. Attendees can also stop in the Learning Lounge to enjoy informal, face-to-face talks in an intimate setting right on the trade show floor. Industry leaders will tackle topics such as reproductive technologies, vaccination programs, ag lending and crop protection.

The popular Stockmanship & Stewardship Demonstration Arena returns with stockmanship experts Dr. Ron Gill and Curt Pate providing low-stress cattle handling demonstrations, Beef Quality Assurance educational sessions, industry updates and facility design sessions. Interactive discussions will show how producers can shape consumer perceptions of beef and how the principles presented have significant economic and “quality of life” benefits.

The trade show experience continues each afternoon with food, fun and entertainment. The hottest event in town on Wednesday will be the Flamingo Fiesta Welcome Reception, Thursday’s Hoppy Hour will feature a wide variety of beers, and Friday’s Pups & Popsicles will wrap up the week with furry friends and refreshing treats.

Recognized by Trade Show Executive magazine as one of the top 100 trade shows in the United States, the NCBA Trade Show is the largest of its kind for the cattle industry. A variety of registration options are available including trade show only and single day tickets, which include show access, lunch, receptions and educational activities. For more information and to register and reserve housing, visit convention.ncba.org.



John Deere Delivers Enhanced Customer Solution for Self-Repair

John Deere (NYSE: DE) announced today an enhanced self-repair solution, available initially in the U.S. through its Equipment Mobile app, enabling customers to remotely download secure software updates directly to embedded controllers on compatible 4G-connected John Deere equipment. This update follows the March 2022 announcement that expanded the availability to purchase Customer Service ADVISOR directly from John Deere.

“This is the latest example of how John Deere continues to lead by innovating, developing, and bringing to market the latest solutions that help our customers maximize uptime and be more productive, efficient, and sustainable in their operations,” said Luke Gakstatter, Senior Vice President for Aftermarket & Customer Support.

Using their John Deere Operations Center™ account, John Deere customers operating compatible 4G-connected machines can use this enhanced solution to complete secure software updates directly to an embedded controller through a user-friendly interface using the Equipment Mobile app. This is in addition to other valuable customer maintenance and repair information added to Operations Center™ and Property Center™ this year including Operator’s Manuals, Warranties, and Product Improvement Programs specific to their equipment.

With this announcement, John Deere is taking the next step toward digitizing and enhancing the self-repair experience for customers. This feature will give John Deere customers the ability to keep controllers on their compatible 4G-connected equipment up to date with the latest software releases. These updates can include enhancements and general improvements to generate a better equipment experience.

John Deere remains committed to continuing the development of solutions that support and enhance customers’ ability to safely and securely repair their own equipment, including reprogramming capabilities for compatible equipment and solutions for non-connected machines. To learn more about John Deere’s commitment to customer uptime and repairability, visit Deere.com/repair.



How Important is Seed Selection in Managing Tar Spot?

Tar spot continues to be a growing concern to corn acres across the Midwest. Research has found that tar spot can overwinter on infested corn residue, increasing crop infection risks and leading to questions on managing the newer corn disease.

Several foliar fungicides are labeled for controlling tar spot in corn. While research is limited and still developing, fungicides can reduce tar spot symptoms and help protect yield. Two applications in a season may be needed due to the rapid reinfection cycle, particularly in irrigated corn.

The varying success of fungicides is why hybrids selection is important.

“Fungicide won’t save a susceptible hybrid from tar spot,” said Matt Vandehaar, Pioneer Field Agronomist. “You can’t fungicide your way out of tar spot.”

Growers should prioritize hybrids with genetic tar spot tolerance, as it appears to have a greater impact on symptoms and retaining yield than either cultural or chemical management practices.

It is important to work with a seed representative and agronomist to examine local trials and select hybrids with tar spot tolerance.

Managing residue may also decrease the risk of tar spot. Tilling fields buries infected residue and increases the rate of decomposition, which may help reduce the amount of tar spot overwintering. But tillage will not reduce the risk of infection from locally dispersed inoculum.

If tar spot remains an issue in 2024, rotating crops may be the best course of action. Rotation can allow residue to decompose and reduce the primary inoculum.



USDA to conduct the 2023 Census of Aquaculture
 
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) announced that starting Dec. 18 they will mail the 2023 Census of Aquaculture to all producers who indicated in their 2022 Census of Agriculture that they produce and sell aquaculture products. The deadline to respond is Jan. 15, 2024.

An ag census special study, the Census of Aquaculture will provide comprehensive aquaculture data at the state and national levels, including production volume and methods, surface water acres and sources, and sales. Federal, state, and local governments, agribusinesses, trade associations, and producers use these data.

“The information that respondents provide will serve as the foundation for many decisions involving the sustainability and growth of the U.S. aquaculture sector for years to come,” said NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “This is an opportunity to share your voice and showcase the uniqueness of American aquaculture.”

NASS has made survey response more convenient with their online Respondent Portal at www.agcounts.usda.gov. On the site, producers can complete their NASS surveys, view historical reports, and access other resources.

“We recognize that producers are incredibly busy, and we want to thank them in advance for taking their valuable time to participate,” said Hamer.

Responding to the 2023 Census of Aquaculture is required by law under Title 7 USC 2204(g) Public Law 105-113. The same law requires NASS to keep all information confidential, use the data for statistical purposes only, and publish in aggregate form to prevent disclosing the identity of any individual producer or farm operation. NASS will release the data from the Census of Aquaculture on Dec. 16, 2024.

To learn more about this census, visit www.nass.usda.gov/agcensus. On the website, producers and other data users can access frequently asked questions as well as past ag census and special study data. For highlights of these and the latest information, follow NASS on X @usda_nass