Monday August 12 Ag News

Time to Consider Using the Remaining Stored Soil Water in Irrigated Corn and Bean Fields
Steve Melvin - Extension Educator Irrigated Cropping Systems

The last few irrigations of the season require some of the most important water management decisions of the year.

An unneeded irrigation may mean wasting 1 to 3 inches of water and 2 to 5 gallons of diesel fuel per acre. Even if your irrigation costs are only $10/ac-in, each inch reduction is worth about $1,300 for each quarter-section pivot. For example: If a field of silt loam soil is left at field capacity, it’s missing out on 5.5 inches of off-season storage, worth about $7,200 — not even accounting for the leaching loss of nutrients. Nitrogen loss has been shown by research to be about 5 to 10 lbs/a for each inch of water that moves through the profile.

Across Nebraska, during most years, enough precipitation will be received from October through May to refill the soil profile on irrigated fields. For example, the Grand Island area gets about 14.2 inches during this timeframe, and even the Scottsbluff area will receive about 8.6 inches on average.

The final decisions on furrow-irrigated fields need to be made sooner due to the typical higher application amounts with flood, while the final decisions on the pivot or subsurface drip irrigated fields can be delayed to take advantage of any rainfall that may occur. With this in mind, Nebraska Extension publication Irrigation Scheduling Strategies When Using Soil Water Data (EC3036) http://extensionpublications.unl.edu/assets/pdf/ec3036.pdf, and the video series How to Schedule Irrigations with Soil Water Data https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdssrgg38jJ0eVydpVRM6j898HykkhAlv were developed. The resources focus on season-long irrigation scheduling and wrap up with end-of-season scheduling.

Many irrigators apply more water than necessary toward the end of the irrigation season because irrigation applications continue at a rate they have grown used to during the middle of the summer, even though the crop is using less water per day. Water use goes down because the crop is getting more mature and the days are getting shorter and cooler. The average crop water use rate for corn drops from around 2.1 inches per week at silking to only about 1.2 inches per week by the full dent stage. This 40% reduction requires irrigators to adjust their thinking about how much water needs to be applied each week.

So, calculating the amount of water needed from rain and irrigation for the crop to reach maturity becomes important starting in early August.  Read more on Steve's Cropwatch article here: https://cropwatch.unl.edu/2024/time-consider-using-remaining-stored-soil-water-irrigated-corn-and-bean-fields.  



Rep. Flood Introduces the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Information Act

Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) and Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), announced that they had introduced the Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Information Act. This bill would direct the United States Energy Information Administration (EIA) to more explicitly include Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on their weekly and monthly reports, consistent with other fuel types that are regularly reported on by the agency.

“Nebraska is the second largest producer of biofuels in the nation and we’re constantly working to grow our bioeconomy,” said Rep. Flood. “Sustainable Aviation Fuel is an incredible growth opportunity that can help expand the biofuels industry and our rural economy. This commonsense legislation directs the EIA to start including SAF in data sets they publish, allowing stakeholders and industry to better understand how production is developing. Thank you to my colleagues, especially Congressman Carter, for stepping up and pushing to help include SAF in key reports as the industry takes off.”

“Aviation currently represents approximately 10 percent of our nation’s transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions,” said Congressman Carter, Sr. “Without coordinated action between government and industry, these emissions will continue to increase as more people and goods fly through our skies. Sustainable aviation fuel is an exciting, new green fuel with a proven record of success. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure America is on track to meet the growing demand for cleaner transportation and healthier communities. I'm committed to supporting innovative, eco-friendly aviation solutions like this.”

Congressman Flood has been an advocate for SAF, pushing to expand markets and introducing the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Accuracy Act of 2023 along with Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (D-IL).

Congressman Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH), Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE), Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV), and Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI) joined the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Information Act as original co-sponsors.

Supporters of the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Information Act include the Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, the SAF Coalition, Greater New Orleans Inc., American Sugar Cane League, National Corn Growers Association, Growth Energy, Renewable Fuels Nebraska, the Nebraska Soybean Association, the Nebraska Corn Growers Association, and the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation.

Support for the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Information Act
“Sustainable aviation fuel is a big opportunity for American bioethanol producers and our farmer partners. Reporting SAF production and including this data in EIA's regular reports is a simple step that will help the entire industry track its progress and identify investment opportunities. We’re grateful to Rep. Flood and Rep. Carter for introducing this bill, and for taking steps to secure America’s position as a leader in SAF production.” - Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy

“As we work to speed up the development and deployment of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), real-time production and supply updates from the U.S. Energy Information Administration will offer crucial insights. These updates will play a key role in effectively scaling up SAF across the country." - Alison Graab, The Executive Director for the SAF Coalition

“We applaud Rep. Flood for introducing the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Information Act. This bill will help provide transparency for corn growers and the biofuels industry. In this emerging space, accountability is needed to ensure that American farmers are being properly credited for providing the feedstocks that will drive this new market.” - Harold Wolle, President for National Corn Growers Association

“We are grateful that Congressman Flood is co-introducing this legislation that would provide greater data transparency on this growing industry. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), its production and usage, we believe provides a great opportunity for Nebraska corn farmers.” - Chris Grams, President of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association.

“Transparent and timely market data are critically important to help the nascent SAF industry get off the ground. This legislation would ensure SAF producers and users have the information they need to make informed decisions and smart investments. The Renewable Fuels Association thanks Reps. Flood and Carter for their leadership on this issue and we strongly support their legislation.” - Jared Mullendore, Policy Counsel and Director of Government Affairs for the Renewable Fuels Association

“We appreciate the work of Congressman Flood for introducing the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Information Act. Producing advanced biofuels in the United States promotes economic opportunities for communities across the country and increases market access for Nebraska farmers. Homegrown agricultural feedstocks play an important role in meeting the nation’s goal for clean fuel production.” - Lori Luebbe, Executive Director for the Nebraska Soybean Association



CAP Webinar: What's in Your (Veterinary) Medicine Cabinet?
Aug 15, 2024 12:00
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Beef Systems Educator, Nebraska Extension

This webinar aims to increase the proficiency of cattle ranch, grow yard or feedlot owners, managers or employees in veterinary medicine and equipment identification and utilization. We will deepen the understanding of basic veterinary applications of drugs, vaccines, growth-promotion implants, feed additives, supportive therapy and veterinary equipment use so that each participants’ confidence when conversing with their veterinarian, reviewing health directives, or procuring veterinary medicines and drugs is increased.

Presented by Nebraska Women in Agriculture.

Click here to register:  https://cap.unl.edu/webinars.  



Gov. Pillen Hosts 'One Nebraska' Ag and Economic Development Summit

This week, Governor Jim Pillen welcomed 600 leaders to Younes Conference Center North in Kearney for “One Nebraska: the Governor’s Summit on Ag and Economic Development,” co-hosted by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA).

“We have unique strengths as a state that we can brag about to bring in business,” said Governor Jim Pillen. “Nebraska has amazing people, abundant natural resources, and the most sustainable ag production on the planet. The Summit is a tremendous opportunity to strategize together about how we can make the most of these competitive advantages.”

The Governor’s Summit is the state’s premier economic development forum, convening leaders from across Nebraska to discuss how to grow the Good Life. This is the fourth consecutive year the Summit has had an agricultural focus.         

“Whether it’s growing biomanufacturing or producing second-generation biofuels, Nebraska is ready to take the lead,” said NDA Director Sherry Vinton. “Our products are premium quality, our producers have tech savvy that’s second to none, and we’ve developed the tools to tell our sustainability story. The Governor’s Summit on Ag and Economic Development equips us, as leaders, with the subject knowledge and relational networks we need to maximize the state’s potential for growth.”

“The Summit draws together leaders from across industries and geographies to focus on a unifying goal – bettering the future for our neighbors, hometowns, and state,” said DED Director K.C. Belitz. “We have a historic window of opportunity to change Nebraska’s trajectory. Seizing this moment demands that we cooperate more closely than ever. The Summit is a great way to align our efforts as we move forward as a state.”

This year’s event included a focus on retaining graduates and attracting new residents to Nebraska. The Summit also included an emphasis on Nebraska’s bioeconomy – exploring how the state can feed the world and fuel the future, while contributing to a cleaner environment. The Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NeDNR) led panel discussions on innovative practices to reduce water use and other crop inputs in order to safeguard Nebraska’s aquifer and surface waters.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) headed sessions to provide insight on how the State of Nebraska can support local governments in the pursuit of federal discretionary funds for broadband, roads, and bridges. NDOT's launch of the Nebraska Infrastructure HUB, aligns with Gov. Pillen's vision of increasing the state's competitiveness for federal funding, along with providing support to state and local partners in navigating the challenges involved with the application and administration processes.

The Summit started on Wednesday night with a reception and awards banquet hosted by the Nebraska Diplomats. During the evening event, both Norfolk and Seward received “Community of the Year” recognition for their recent economic development accomplishments. Additionally, leaders were honored for their contributions to grow Nebraska agriculture, create thriving businesses, and promote the state to international partners.

Gov. Pillen kicked off Thursday’s activities with opening remarks. Jack Hubbard, Executive Director of the Center for the Environment & Welfare, then underscored the urgent need to defend agriculture against the unfounded attacks of radical environmental activists. Next, attendees took part in breakout sessions featuring issues central to the state’s growth. Session topics included recruiting talent to Nebraska, attracting investment into the state’s bioeconomy, increasing housing inventories and childcare capacity, and unlocking productivity in Nebraska’s manufacturing industry. The day’s luncheon featured an informal fireside chat between Gov. Pillen and Troy Dannen, athletic director at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

The Summit concluded with a half-day workshop on Friday morning, dedicated to accelerating the growth of Nebraska’s bioeconomy.



Ricketts to Host Federal Issues Forum at Nebraska State Fair

On August 26th, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) will host his first-ever “Federal Issues Forum” at the Nebraska State Fair. The event will take place from 10AM-1PM CT and include three panel discussions on Nebraska’s agriculture industry. The panels will be open to the public and include a moderated question and answer portion.

Panels at the forum will include:
    “Environmental Overregulation: A Conversation on Government Overreach, Electric Vehicles & More” hosted By Senator Pete Rickets. Panelists will be Senator Shelley Moore-Capito (R-WV), the Ranking Member of the Senate Environment & Public Works Committee, and Former EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler.

    “Food Security Is National Security: A Panel On The Importance Of Trade To The U.S.” hosted by Congressman Adrian Smith. Panelists will include Former USTR Chief Agriculture Negotiator Gregg Doud and Former United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture Ambassador Kip Tom

    “Navigating The Process: A Panel On Agribusiness And The Federal Government” hosted by Senator Pete Ricketts. Panelists include President-Elect of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Buck Wehrbein, Sustainable Beef’s Rusty Kemp, and KAPPA Ethanol’s Chuck Woodside.

“Serving Nebraskans will always be my first priority and it’s important that we do everything we can to protect our number one industry in the state which is agriculture,” Ricketts said. “That’s why we’re doing this Federal Issues Forum at the Nebraska State Fair. I want to make sure that Washington knows about the challenges and opportunities agriculture has in states like Nebraska.”



Cover Crop Field Day to Be Held near Portsmouth Aug. 27

Iowa Learning Farms will host a cover crop field day on Tuesday, Aug. 27, from 10 a.m. to noon at Bill Hammitt’s farm near Portsmouth. The free event is open to farmers and landowners and includes a complimentary meal.

This field day aims to equip attendees with best management practices for establishing and managing cover crops. Cover crops offer many benefits to farmers and landowners, including reduced soil erosion, weed suppression potential, reduced nitrogen and phosphorus loads entering water bodies, and increased organic matter in the soil. When paired with no-tillage, additional benefits include increased water infiltration and reduced erosion during heavy rains.

Iowa Learning Farms is a conservation program with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

The host, Bill Hammitt, began using no-till in the 1980s as a tool to build soil health, reduce soil erosion and save on energy and moisture. "Soil health not only benefits yield but conserves the resource. No-till and cover crops are the best recipe for good soil health,” said Hammitt.

He has recently added camelina ahead of corn and uses winter cereal rye ahead of soybeans. Using multiple seeding methods, including drill and drone applications, Hammitt will share his experiences and lessons learned for successful cover crop integration into a no-till system.

The field day will feature the rainfall simulator from Iowa Learning Farms and a cover crop drone seeding demonstration by Mark Archibald, with Universal Aerial Solutions. Nick Warner, owner of Armour Ag, will continue the discussion with how cover crops and no-till work to build and maintain soil health, and Luke Zaiger, Harrison County NRCS district conservationist, will highlight current cost-share opportunities.

The field day will be held at the Hammitt Farm, 3620 240th St., Portsmouth, Iowa. From Portsmouth, head west on IA-44 for 5 miles. Turn right to head north on Toledo Avenue for 1 mile. Turn right to head east on 240th St. for 0.2 miles. The farm is located on the south side of the road and field day signs will mark the driveway.

The event is free and open to farmers and landowners, though reservations are required to ensure adequate space and food. For reasonable accommodations and to RSVP, contact Liz Ripley at 515-294-5429 or ilf@iastate.edu by Aug. 21. Attendees will be entered into a drawing for Iowa State Prairie Strips honey.

Iowa Learning Farms field days and workshops are supported by the United States Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. More information about Iowa Learning Farms is available online https://www.iowalearningfarms.org/.