Wednesday February 07 Ag News

Cuming Co. Extension Board Elects Officers

The 2023 Cuming County Extension Board met for their reorganizational meeting on Monday, January 29. Marty Smith of Pender was elected to serve a one-year term as president. He will preside at the monthly meetings of the Extension Board as well as representing the Extension Board on any issues. Members of the board elected Justin Stratmann of West Point to serve as vice president and Kristie Borgelt of Wisner recording secretary.

Other members of the Extension Board are Eric Brockmann, West Point; Kelly Dinslage, West Point; and Joan Plagge, West Point; Michael Schutte, Wisner. Jennifer Jacobsen of Wisner, Beckie Pierce of West Point, and Kristie Ruskamp of Dodge represent the Cuming County 4-H Council.

The Extension Board is the policy making body for the Nebraska Extension program in Cuming County. The next meeting of the Extension Board will be Monday, February 26 at 7:00 p.m. in the Courthouse Meeting Room.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Connects with Young Ag Professionals and Names Discussion Meet Finalists at its YF&R Conference

Young farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness professionals from across Nebraska gathered in Kearney to connect with their peers, engage in meaningful conversation, and discover new opportunities in agriculture. The Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) Conference held many insightful breakout sessions designed to bring value to a young person’s farm, ranch, or agribusiness career. At the end of the conference finalists were named in the Discussion Meet contest. The YF&R Conference was held Feb. 2-3 at the Younes Conference Center in Kearney.

“The YF&R Conference is designed by young farmers and ranchers for young farmers and ranchers to provide an opportunity for personal and professional growth in young agriculture professionals,” said Audrey Schipporeit Nebraska Farm Bureau’s director of generational engagement.

This year’s conference offered innovative local agriculture tours on Friday and a concert by Logan Mize. On Saturday, mental health in agriculture was the topic for keynote speaker Marshall Sewell. He explained that prioritizing mental health leads to an overall healthy life and gave easy solutions to make that prioritization a reality. The workshops brought together young people in agriculture with like-minded interests in cattle, sheep, marketing products from farm to plate, crop nutrition, and how to build the best balance for your farm or ranch.

“The YF&R Conference is my favorite opportunity to connect with people who share the same walk of life as me,” said new YF&R Committee Chair, Josh England of Hall County. “I appreciate that Farm Bureau provides us the opportunity to develop as leaders and learn from industry professionals how to better our farms and ranches.”

The annual Discussion Meet competition was held during the conference. It is designed to simulate a committee meeting that proposes solutions to an issue being discussed. Competitors are evaluated on their ability to provide innovative solutions, cooperatively engage in conversation, and position Farm Bureau as an agent of change. Contestants competed in two rounds of discussion to determine a final four.

The four finalists in the 2024 YF&R Discussion Meet contest are Lydia O’Brien of Arthur County, David Schuler of Morrill County, Katie Keller of Thomas County, and Cory Johnson of Loup County. These four individuals advanced to the NEFB YF&R Discussion Meet to be held at the 2024 NEFB Annual Meeting and Convention Dec. 9-11.  Sheridan Swotek and Sean Krebs both of Buffalo County, were named alternates.

All four finalists received a $50 prize and a chance to compete nationally for $500 and an all-expense paid trip to represent Nebraska in the American Farm Bureau YF&R Discussion Meet in San Antonio, January 24-29, 2025. Farm Bureau members between the ages of 18 and 35 are eligible to compete in the YF&R Discussion Meet.

Retiring YF&R Committee members were recognized during the event and the new YF&R committee was announced. A big thank you goes out to retiring committee members David and Christy Schuler of Morrill County and Rebecca Wulf, student, University of Nebraska - Lincoln. The 2024 newly appointed YF&R Committee members are:
            Josh & Jill England, Central Region, Chairs (Hall County)
            Lance & Krystal Atwater, Youth At-Large (Adams/Webster County)
            Matthew & Riley Erickson, Southeast Region (Johnson County)
            Grant Jones, Southwest Region (Chase County)
            Parker Jessen, Northwest Region (Morrill County)
            Daniel Hasart, North Central Region (Cherry County)
            Courtney Nelson, Northeast Region (Madison County)
            Joe & Jaden Melnick, South Central Region (Adams/Webster County)
            Ryan & Amy Musgrave, At-Large (Clay County)
            Abygail Streff, Student (University of Nebraska – Lincoln)
            Carson Maricle, Student (University of Nebraska – Lincoln)

If you are interested in learning more about the Young Farmers and Ranchers program, contact Audrey Schipporeit at audreys@nefb.org.



NRDs Taking Orders for Spring Conservation Tree Plantings

Nebraska's Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) are actively taking orders for conservation tree seedlings, and the deadline to order is fast approaching. Secure your favorite species and make a lasting impact on your surroundings.

Since 1972, Nebraska’s NRDs have worked with communities and landowners to plant more than 100 million trees throughout the state. For approximately $1.20 each, conservation trees benefit both people and animals. They shade and shelter homes, reduce soil erosion, protect crops and livestock, provide food and cover for wildlife, buffer noise, provide valuable products and add beauty to the landscape.

During an especially snowy winter or scorching summer, windbreaks play an important role in protecting livestock. Windbreaks provide benefits to feedlots, pastures, and calving areas by reducing wind speeds and sheltering animals from the harsh elements. This not only reduces stress and mortality but decreases feed requirements saving the producer money and resources.

“The NRD Conservation Tree Program is not just about planting trees; it’s a strategic move to protect our natural resources,” said Dr. Orval Gigstad, Nebraska Association of Resources Districts president. “Each conservation tree seedling protects against soil erosion, acts as a shield protecting crops and livestock, and is a resilient force against the elements.”

As windbreaks age, NRD foresters suggest rehabbing existing windbreaks or designing plans for a new planting. The NRD Conservation Tree Program offers landowners a cost-effective way to protect their property. NRD staff and foresters work with landowners to select the right trees for the property, design the space, and many NRDs can even plant them for you.

In December 2021, Executive Travel announced a partnership with Nebraska’s NRDs to plant 1 million trees through the ETGreen campaign. In 2022 and 2023, the campaign funded more than 111,000 trees and in 2024, Executive Travel committed an additional $65,000 for tree planting. This partnership gives Executive Travel the opportunity to assist local landowners in planting all 1 million trees in Nebraska.

“Our unique collaboration with the NRDs not only underscores a commitment to sustainability but also ensures landowners receive support in their tree-planting endeavors,” said Steve Glenn, Executive Travel chairman. “This great network of local landowners who plant hundreds of thousands of trees annually guarantees trees are planted and cared for.”

Each NRD program varies, but possible tree program services include planting, weed barrier installation or weed control, and drip irrigation. Popular species sell out fast, so place your order now for the best selection. For more information on cost share availability or to place an order, contact your local NRD or visit www.nrdnet.org and select “Find Your NRD.”

Learn more about the NRD Conservation Tree Program at www.nrdtrees.org.



Beef Quality Assurance Session Set for Feb. 27 in Moville

Producers and haulers who need to renew or obtain their certification in Beef Quality Assurance can preregister now for an in-person training in Moville in northwestern Iowa. Offered by the Iowa Beef Center, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the Iowa Beef Industry Council, the session is set for Tuesday, Feb. 27, from 1-3 p.m.

BQA is a national program featuring best management practices that align with the highest standards.

Beth Doran, beef specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach, reminds producers they need a current BQA certificate in order to sell cattle to a packer and at some local livestock auctions.

“BQA focuses on beef quality and safety, animal welfare and environmental stewardship," she said. "The program is a win-win with high quality beef for the consumer and increased beef demand, which helps producers stay in business.”      

This BQA training will be held at the City Hall in Moville. There is no cost to attend the training, but registration is requested by Feb. 22 and may be made by calling the ISU Extension Outreach office in Woodbury County at 712-276-2157.

Those unable to attend an in-person training may complete BQA training online at https://www.iabeef.org/cattlemens-corner/iowa-bqa.

For more information or questions, contact Doran at 712-737-4230 or email doranb@iastate.edu.



Secretary Naig Encourages Applications for Century and Heritage Farm Recognition

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig encourages eligible Iowa farm owners to apply for Century or Heritage Farm recognition as part of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s Century and Heritage Farm Program. The program was created by the Department and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation to honor families who have owned their farms for 100 years and 150 years, respectively.

To be included for recognition in 2024, completed applications must be postmarked or received by the Department by June 1, 2024. The ceremonies honoring the 2024 Century and Heritage Farm families will be held on August 15, 2024, in the historic Livestock Pavilion at the Iowa State Fair.

“Century and Heritage Farm families represent the very best of our state and are remarkable examples of the ingenuity, strength and resilience of Iowa agriculture,” said Secretary Naig. “You can’t help but be inspired by the pride, stories and legacies of these multi-generational farm families and that makes Century and Heritage Farm Day at the Iowa State Fair one of my favorite days of the year.”

To apply, download and complete the application found on the Department’s website and return it to:
Century and Heritage Farm Program
c/o Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
Wallace State Office Building
502 E. 9th Street
Des Moines, IA 50319

You may also request an application from Kelley Reece, coordinator of the Century and Heritage Farm Program, at 515-281-3645 or kelley.reece@iowaagriculture.gov.

This is the 48th year of the Century Farm Program, which started in 1976 as part of the Nation’s Bicentennial Celebration. To date, more than 21,000 farms from across the state have received this distinction. This is the 18th year of the Heritage Farm Program and more than 1,800 farms have been recognized since this program began in 2006.



Farmers and Other Small Entities May Need to File Beneficial Ownership Reports

Farmers who operate as a corporation or an LLC or a limited partnership will need to pay close attention to a law passed at the beginning of 2021 implementing new reporting requirements in 2024.

The Corporate Transparency Act, created to curb illicit financial transactions and money laundering, requires most registered companies to complete “Beneficial Ownership Information Reports,” in 2024. Congress tasked the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a bureau of the U.S. Treasury, to establish and maintain a national registry of beneficial owners.

In these online reports, companies must provide information about the company, as well as information about each beneficial owner. Beneficial owners include anyone who owns at least 25% of the company, as well as anyone who has “substantial control” over the business. For each beneficial owner, the company must report the name, date of birth, home address and identifying number of an acceptable proof of identification, such as a driver’s license. They must also upload an image of the identification document.

Companies that existed before the start of 2024 have until Jan. 1, 2025, to file the form, while companies created or registered in 2024 will have 90 days after their creation to file. Any company that has already filed its first report will have just 30 days to report any updates, such as a new beneficial owner or a change in address.

“This is a new law that FinCEN is enforcing this year and we need to get the word out to farmers and others who have registered companies,” said Charles Brown, a farm management specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “Existing farm companies have a whole year before the deadline, but we are encouraging people to file sooner rather than later, so they don’t risk fines and penalties for being late.”

What to know
Kristine Tidgren, director of the Center for Agricultural Law and Taxation at Iowa State, recently wrote an article to help explain the new law and what farmers are required to do.

“There are many important parts to this law, including who exactly must file a report, and what they must include,” said Tidgren. “This is a federal law and our goal is to help people understand what they are required to do.”

The Corporate Transparency Act was part of the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020 in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021, according to Tidgren. The law requires the FinCEN to establish and maintain a national registry of beneficial owners of entities that are otherwise not subject to disclosure regulations.

Who must file?
The rule identifies two types of companies that must report: domestic and foreign. Domestic reporting companies are entities created by the filing of a document with a secretary of state or any similar office under the law of a state or Indian tribe.

This generally means that LLCs (including single-member LLCs), corporations and limited partnerships are required to file reports if they are not otherwise exempted from the reporting requirement. The law’s 23 exemptions from reporting generally apply only to large entities that already disclose owner information in other ways. Most tax exempt entities, however, are not required to file reports, regardless of size.

How to file
Companies and entities that are required to file the report must do so online, at https://boiefiling.fincen.gov/fileboir.

If a required entity fails to file on time, penalties can be as high as $500 for each day in violation, with criminal penalties up to $10,000 and possible imprisonment.

Brown said he understands the frustration some farmers might feel about having to file another form, but he said it’s a federal requirement.

“As a farm management specialist, my goal is to help people understand the things they must do, and this is one of those,” he said. “The law was decided by Congress, and now that it is in effect, I want to educate Iowans so they can comply.”



USDA to Issue $306 Million in Final Payments to Producers Impacted by 2020 and 2021 Natural Disasters

The U. S Department of Agriculture (USDA) is issuing final Emergency Relief Program (ERP) payments totaling approximately $306 million to eligible commodity and specialty crop producers who incurred losses due to natural disasters in 2020 and 2021. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will begin issuing these additional payments to eligible producers this week.

“In the natural disaster recovery process, every little bit of available assistance helps offset the financial toll that these catastrophic events have taken on agricultural producers, their families, and their operations,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “With remaining funds after initial factoring, USDA was able to put additional money back in the hands of the producers as we strive for the most fair and equitable distribution of available funds to as many producers as possible.”

Recipients of the additional payment are limited to those producers who received ERP Phase One payments from FSA that were calculated based on crop insurance indemnities. Initially, ERP Phase One payments to producers who were indemnified through Federal crop insurance, were subject to a 75% payment factor. FSA has since determined that adequate funding exists to provide an additional 3.5% ERP Phase One payment to producers who had crop insurance increasing the overall payment factor to 78.5%. These additional ERP Phase One payments are subject to FSA payment limitation provisions as outlined in the ERP Phase One fact sheet.

Because ERP Phase One payments to producers of noninsured crops covered by FSA NAP policies were originally paid at 100%, there will be no additional payments issued to these producers for 2020 and 2021 losses.

The Extending Government Funding and Delivering Emergency Assistance Act, 2021 (P.L. 117-43) provided $10 billion in assistance to agricultural producers impacted by wildfires, droughts, hurricanes, winter storms and other eligible disasters experienced during calendar years 2020 and 2021. In 2022, FSA implemented ERP Phase One, which delivered $7.5 billion in payments to commodity and specialty crop producers. For Phase One, ERP used a streamlined process with pre-filled application forms, leveraging crop insurance indemnities or Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) payments on file with USDA.   

Separately, through the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2023 (P.L. 117-328) Congress allocated approximately $3.2 billion in funding to cover necessary expenses related to losses of revenue, quality or production losses of crops. Enrollment is ongoing for ERP 2022, which covers losses to crops, trees, bushes and vines due to qualifying, calendar year 2022 natural disaster events including wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, tornadoes, winter storms, freeze (including a polar vortex), smoke exposure, excessive moisture, qualifying drought and related conditions.



USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack to Speak at National Ethanol Conference

The Renewable Fuels Association is proud to announce that U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack will be a featured speaker at the 2024 National Ethanol Conference, taking place Feb. 19-21 in San Diego. Sec. Vilsack will speak to nearly 1,000 conference attendees Tuesday morning, Feb. 20.

"We are truly honored to have Secretary Vilsack joining us at this year’s conference, and we look forward to hearing his perspective on the future of renewable fuels and the farm economy,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “Under his leadership, USDA continues to embrace sustainable innovation and pursue new market opportunities for America’s farmers and ethanol producers. With crucial SAF tax credit modeling decisions looming, new funding opportunities for biofuels infrastructure, and important new initiatives for climate-smart agriculture, this is the perfect time to welcome Secretary Vilsack to NEC and thank him for his tireless efforts and dedication.”

Vilsack was confirmed as the 32nd Secretary of Agriculture in 2021 by the U.S. Senate, having been nominated by President Joe Biden to return to a role where he served for eight years under President Barack Obama. Prior to his first appointment as USDA secretary, he served two terms as the Governor of Iowa, served in the Iowa State Senate, and as the mayor of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. Before returning to USDA, he served as president and CEO of the U.S. Dairy Export Council from 2017 until early 2021.

Now in its 29th year, the National Ethanol Conference is the nation’s most widely attended executive-level conference for the ethanol industry, where sessions featuring globally renowned speakers are interspersed with numerous networking opportunities to help the industry connect and collaborate. Last year in Orlando, RFA hosted nearly 1,000 industry stakeholders, including attendees from 14 countries around the world.



Case IH Goes Big with AF11 Combine Introduction

Each year farmers are challenged to accomplish more within tighter windows. In order to get the most out of every engine hour, Case IH is launching the AF11 combine, an industry-leading powerhouse purposefully redesigned from the ground up to maximize time in the field.

The AF11 brings together runtime advancements through speed and technology to maximize in-field productivity in this 775 hp machine. By coupling Case IH’s first-ever dual rotor, the AFXL2, with an active and dynamic cleaning system, the AF11 delivers industry-leading capacity.

“We recognize growers have an increasing amount of ground to cover while facing unpredictable harvest windows and labor shortages. With the AF11, Case IH addresses these variables head-on,” says Leo Bose, harvesting segment leader. “We see this machine as a way to drive capacity, bring state of the art technology and bottom-line benefits for our customers, while also providing the reliability that customers have come to expect from Case IH.”

The AF11 builds upon Axial-Flow strength and heritage, providing matched capacity from header to spreader. The speed and throughput are delivered with consistent crop flow, reduced grain loss and radar-controlled residue management. The AF11 boasts a 567-bushel grain tank and a 6-bushel-per-second unload rate, leading stats for a Class 10+ combine. Plus, it delivers improved fuel efficiency and a large fuel tank to keep runtime at a maximum.

“Our product development process, which is centered around farmers, identified the need for matched capacity, speed and throughput,” adds Bose. “The AFXL2 dual rotor technology drives that capability to harvest more in less time.”

Drew Baker, a Canadian farmer, is looking to increase productivity and efficiency as harvesting windows narrow and input costs increase. Baker sees the AF11 as a way to revolutionize his farm amid those harvesting challenges.

“I would say [the AF11] makes us look differently at our future options. If we can cut our [grain] losses, do more in a day, burn less fuel and lose less out of the back of the combine – that’s a real advantage,” said Baker, who farms just outside of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The AF11 is the first in the AF series and will offer a number of top-of-the-line technology-focused features, including Case IH’s combine automation solution, Harvest Command.

Case IH offers a suite of precision technology and connectivity products that not only simplify harvest operations, but also solve ongoing issues, such as labor and operating windows by opening doors to less experienced labor, and help an operation improve its ROI through shared analytics and diagnostics.

“The AF11 is offering technology-driven efficiencies to growers,” adds Bose. “It’s about elevating control – even if the farmer isn’t in the driver seat. We’re providing technology that can optimize machine settings in real-time to navigate even the toughest conditions harvest can throw your way.”

The AF11 will only be available in North America and more information about specifications and pricing will be released at a later date.

Look for the AF11 at the 2024 National Farm Machinery Show and to learn more about this fully redesigned combine, visit https://www.caseih.com/en-us/unitedstates/products/harvesting/af-series.