Thursday August 01 Ag News

 Lt. Governor Kelly & Delegation Tout Opportunities from Trade Mission
 
Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly is touting the many opportunities that he and trade mission delegates had to promote Nebraska products and continued market growth during a recent week and a half long visit to Indonesia. The 20-plus member team took part in a full slate of meetings, events and activities geared primarily at showcasing Nebraska agricultural commodities including beef, pork, soybeans, corn and grains. The delegation included representatives from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA), the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED), the University of Nebraska, and several Nebraska agricultural business sector representatives.
 
“Importers are very interested to know about how our products are grown and raised. They value family connections and sustainability – all things that are important in Nebraska agriculture – and makes our state a standout in the food products we have to offer,” said Lt. Gov. Kelly. With that in mind, he and Director Sherry Vinton from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture spoke frequently about the quality of family farming operations and the pride that goes into raising the best Nebraska products possible.
 
“This was a remarkable trade mission, and it will reap rewards for Nebraska’s ag producers,” said NDA Director Vinton. “Our delegation was warmly received and all of the face-to-face meetings with new and existing distributors and sales representatives will prove invaluable.”
 
Indonesia is Southeast Asia’s largest economy, the world’s fourth-most populous country, and offers substantial market opportunities for Nebraska products. Indonesia is one of the top 10 export markets for Nebraska at $139 million and has a rapidly rising GDP and growing population. Top exports from Nebraska include soybeans/soybean meal, corn, wheat and beef.
 
 The group’s robust 10-day itinerary included meetings with the U.S Grains Council, beef import associations and visits to a feed mill, a fueling station that utilizes ethanol and a tempeh factory. Tempeh is a very popular dish in Indonesia and representatives of the Nebraska Soybean Board said they were excited to explore opportunities to increase exports.  
 
“Indonesia is a top consumer of soybean meal in the world, but the U.S. has a very small market share, so we were able to have great conversations about market opportunities for them to purchase soybean meal from Nebraska,” said Wesley Wach of the Nebraska Soybean Board. “Nebraska and Indonesia have an encouraging future when it comes to soybeans.”
 
Additional opportunities for networking included the Indo Livestock Expo and Forum, which is the country’s leading livestock, feed and dairy industry event and the Jakarta International Expo for Food. Following that event, members of the delegation met with the new United States Ambassador to Indonesia, Kamala Sharon Lakhdhir. Discussions focused on strengthening Indonesia’s relationship with Nebraska, opportunities that exist with soybean meal, pork, and beef markets, and doing more to accommodate halal certification requirements.
 
A visit to the Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta provided Lt. Gov. Kelly and participants another important opportunity to discuss halal certification standards, which ensures that food products raised and processed in Nebraska are acceptable for consumption by Muslims. More than 87% of Indonesia’s population identifies as Muslim, so the ability to provide certified halal food and other products is key to that global market.
 
Another highlight was a visit to the Southeast Asian Food Science and Technology (SEAFAST) Center at IPB University, a state-run agricultural school. There, the focus turned to opportunities involving student exchange programs and collaborating on research in plant and animal sciences.
 
At the SEAFAST Center, Dr. Chris Calkins, who is a world-renowned, emeritus meat science professor from the University of Nebraska, conducted a five-hour workshop for more than 70 culinary students. As part of the presentation, he shared the difference that makes Nebraska beef a desired menu item – a corn diet.
 
“Planting the seeds of understanding and appreciation in future culinary leaders has high potential for long-term payback,” said Dr. Calkins.
 
Dr. Jessie Morrill, assistant professor of meat biochemistry at the University of Nebraska, made similar observations.  
 
“Nebraska farmers and ranchers excel in the production of high-quality protein foods, which are in high demand in Indonesia,” said Dr. Morrill. “Marketing these products to Indonesia can provide significant benefits to our producers and will also help increase dietary protein accessibility in Indonesia.”
 
“It was exciting to be a part of the educational efforts aimed at teaching Indonesian chefs and distributors the story behind what makes Nebraska beef so exceptional,” said Grant Potadle, founder of York Creek Red Angus in Herman, NE. “Creating that demand inside, out in the marketplace, accompanied by laying a foundation for future relationships will be highly impactful in the long-term.”
 
Lt. Gov. Kelly showed off his culinary skills at a beef preparation demonstration at the Grand Indonesia Ranch Market, a grocery market chain. Near the end of their visit, delegation participants went to Cinema XXI, the largest movie chain in Indonesia which imports Preferred Popcorn from Chapman, NE.
 
Lt. Gov. Kelly said all aspects of the trade mission were productive, with plenty of opportunities for Nebraska, considering Indonesia’s growing population of 270 million people.
 
“Nebraska helps to feed the world and their customers are demanding higher quality meat products, which is where we fit right in,” said Lt. Gov. Kelly.
 
The trade mission took place from July 15 – 24.



Congressman Flood Joins Bipartisan Lawmakers in Requesting Guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit

U.S. Congressman Mike Flood recently joined U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and more than 50 bipartisan lawmakers in requesting the U.S. Department of Treasury promptly provide guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. This call aims to provide farmers, blenders, retailers, and fuel users with certainty and sufficient time to implement new clean fuel projects.

“The 45Z credit should be leveraged to provide a forward-looking, technology-neutral market signal to increase our country’s production capacity for low-carbon, domestic renewable fuels and for existing biofuel production to invest in decarbonization,” the lawmakers wrote. “Lack of regulatory certainty is already putting thriving businesses at risk as fuel producers are unable to make important business decisions regarding their fuel.”

The 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit streamlines and replaces multiple fuel-related credits set to expire soon. Designed to boost domestic production of clean biofuels, 45Z requires further guidance from the Treasury on how farmers and renewable fuel producers can engage in this emerging market.

 

Nebraska Corn Congratulates Reiners on Election to the U.S. Grains Council Board

This week, farmers and agribusiness leaders from across the country attended the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) Board of Delegates Meeting held in Salt Lake City, Utah. During this event, Nebraska corn farmer Jay Reiners, from Juniata, was elected as secretary/treasurer board of directors for USGC.

“After being involved with the U.S. Grains Council for many years and understanding the necessity of the work they do, I’m honored to be elected to leadership with the organization,” said Reiners. “Our crops need somewhere to go, and I see tremendous value in the work that the U.S. Grains Council does to facilitate trade to move our grains and products to nations worldwide. I’m privileged to soon play a role in leadership for the organization.”

Reiners grows corn and soybeans with his wife near Juanita, Nebraska. He graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and served in Nebraska’s Army National Guard. In 1992, Reiners’ Farms received the Aksarben’s Pioneer Farm Award. Reiners serves as the chairman of the Nebraska Corn Board and has served in leadership positions on the local, state and national levels, including U.S. Grains Council action teams.

“We are pleased to see Jay join the board of directors for the U.S. Grains Council; it is an attribute to his leadership and passion,” said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director for the Nebraska Corn Board. “The U.S. Grains Council has and continues to benefit farmers across Nebraska and the country, and we celebrate the opportunity to have a Nebraskan helping lead the organization.”

Reiner’s term will begin on Oct. 1, 2024.



Husker Harvest Days announces exciting stage schedule for 2024

Husker Harvest Days, part of Farm Progress brands and the premier crop and cattle agriculture show in the Western Corn Belt, is thrilled to unveil its new, enhanced 2024 hospitality tent stage schedule. From insightful market forecasts to engaging discussions on industry trends, attendees can expect a dynamic and interactive experience that provides a wealth of valuable content.

“Our goal with this year’s stage content is to provide a comprehensive, engaging learning experience that drives the agriculture industry forward,” said Emily Mauermann, Farm Progress director of marketing and product development. “From live recordings of our podcast, ‘FP Next’, to candid insights from industry experts, we hope to provide a wide variety of programs that deliver value to farmers.”

Highlighted sessions include:
    Tues. Sept. 10 at 10 a.m. | Where Are Grain Markets Going? Join Farm Futures staff as they dive into the August Farm Futures survey results. Discover what farmers expect from their 2024 crops and gain insights into commodity market variables for the 2024/25 season.
    Tues. Sept 10 at 1 p.m. | Federal Policy for the Working Farmer Farm Progress policy editor Josh Baethge and a panel of agriculture policy experts discuss the farm bill and other federal legislation impacting the ag world.
    Tues. Sept 10 at 2:15 p.m. | Talking Farm Income With Jena Ochsner and Mary Pat Sass Farm Progress editors and “FP Next” podcast hosts Curt Arens and Sarah McNaughton record live on-stage with “Beyond the Crops” podcast hosts Jena Ochsner and Mary Pat Sass as they have an engaging and honest conversation about farm income.
    Wed. Sept 11 at 10 a.m. | Cattle Industry Outlook Iowa State University professors Dr. Lee Schulz and Dr. Dan Thomson give an overview of their perspectives on the cattle industry, then dive into audience questions about beef exports, input costs and more.
    Wed. Sept 11 at 1 p.m. | Nebraska Farmer Hour With Gov. Jim Pillen, Department of Agriculture Director Sherri Vinton and State FFA Officers The program will include a brief interview with Gov. Pillen by Curt Arens, editor of Nebraska Farmer.  There will also be a question-and-answer forum with Gov. Pillen about the future of ag and young producers, moderated by members of the FFA officer team.
    Thurs. Sept 12 at 11 a.m. | Family Dynamics: Farm Transitions Join University of Nebraska extension educator Jessica Groskopf to learn about family conversation starters that help farm efficiency, build trust for smoother transitions and create greater workplace satisfaction.

All stage content will take place in the Husker Harvest Days Hospitality Tent, located on the corner of Main Street and Central Avenue.

To view the full schedule and to register for complimentary three-day entry to the event, please visit HuskerHarvestDays.com.



The Nebraska Corn Board Is Seeking Applications for Blender Pump Grant Program

The Nebraska Corn Board is now accepting applications for the Blender Pump Grant Program, which launched this week. This initiative aims to enhance ethanol infrastructure in Nebraska by supporting the expansion of higher ethanol blends, including E15, E30 and E85. Retailers are invited to submit applications in accordance with the provided guidelines and may be eligible for up to $50,000 in funding.

“This program represents a significant opportunity for Nebraska corn farmers to directly contribute to the expansion of in-state ethanol infrastructure,” said Payton Schaneman, director of market development for NCB. “By increasing the availability of E15, E30 and E85, we can boost demand for Nebraska-grown corn while providing consumers with more choices at the pump."

Applications must be received no later than 5:00 pm on Friday, September 27, 2024. For further information, visit nebraskacorn.gov/corn-101/corn-uses/ethanol/.



DOE funds UNL's groundbreaking corn gene research

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln's research into corn genetics has received a significant endorsement and financial support from the U.S. Department of Energy.

A grant of $650,000 has been awarded to James Schnable, a prominent plant scientist at UNL, to advance his research on corn hybrid performance predictions using RNA-based technologies.

This research aims to refine how the agricultural industry predicts which corn hybrids will thrive in various environments.

Schnable's team had previously developed a method that could potentially outperform current DNA-based prediction models. With the new funding, they will test this RNA-based method on a broader scale, incorporating hybrid varieties from across the nation.

Collaborating with other states, including Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, the UNL team will gather extensive RNA data to enhance their predictive models.

These models will be rigorously tested against traditional DNA-based methods in the Genomes to Fields yield prediction contest, an international competition that draws some of the best minds in plant phenotype prediction.

The project not only supports fundamental research but also aims to shorten the time it takes to develop and commercialize new, high-yielding, and resilient corn hybrids. This is increasingly important as farmers face the challenges of a rapidly changing climate and evolving agricultural practices.

If successful, Schnable's work could lead to a paradigm shift in crop breeding, making it possible for tomorrow's farmers to use hybrids that are specifically designed for future climatic and environmental conditions, rather than relying on outdated models.

This effort underscores the potential of Nebraska-based research to make a global impact on food security and sustainability.



Biosecurity Basics and Beyond: Ensuring Your Operation's Future

Whenever the topic of biosecurity comes up, it's no surprise that many people might find their attention waning due to the complexity of the issue or because they don’t feel they have experienced a biosecurity problem. The reality is that every producer has encountered some sort of biosecurity risk or event at one point or another and may not have been fully aware or didn’t consider the “biosecurity” aspect of the matter.

In recent months, our friends in the dairy industry have been facing a major biosecurity issue with an H5N1 bird flu outbreak. This outbreak is zoonotic, meaning the disease can spread between species. To date, no cases have been reported in the national beef cattle herd, but that doesn’t mean it can’t happen. This event should prompt many producers to think about biosecurity and the biosecurity risks related to their operations.

The overall goal of biosecurity is to protect animals from disease by minimizing the movement of biologic organisms (such as viruses, bacteria, or parasites) within and/or onto an operation. The key principles to achieve this are physical separation of sick or suspected sick animals, cleaning to remove any contamination, and disinfecting to kill any remaining pathogens.

Producers should practice these basic biosecurity guidelines by developing and implementing a daily biosecurity protocol to protect their operations from outbreaks of sickness and disease. The Beef Quality Assurance program has developed a simple template for producers to use in creating this basic daily biosecurity plan. This plan can be found under the templates section at www.bqa.org.

At the end of the day, a disease outbreak can financially cripple an operation if animal performance is greatly reduced or, worse, if the outbreak results in the death of animals.

Beyond basic biosecurity, the National BQA program has recently been discussing enhanced biosecurity plans. Enhanced biosecurity plans go several steps beyond basic biosecurity measures. They are intended for use in the event of a foreign animal disease outbreak.

The beef industry’s main foreign animal disease concern is foot and mouth disease. Foot and mouth disease was eradicated from the U.S. in 1929. However, it is still active in other countries and is easily spread. It is considered the most contagious animal disease known.

It's important to note that foot and mouth disease is not a food safety risk or public health concern. Beef products remain safe to eat. However, public perception would be detrimental. Additionally, one case of foot and mouth disease found in the U.S. would shut down the U.S. beef export market and cut profits for all cattle producers, crippling the U.S. beef industry. To put real financial numbers to that, the U.S. exported over $10 billion of beef and beef products in 2023. Exports add about $425 of value per fed steer or heifer (including meat cuts and offal), which is nearly 20% of the value for every fed carcass.

Because of the financial implications of a foreign animal disease, producers should strongly consider developing an enhanced biosecurity plan or a Secure Beef Supply plan. Developing this plan does not necessarily mean you have to begin implementing it immediately. It only needs to be implemented for the continuity of business in the event of a foreign animal disease outbreak. Some beef packers may also require the implementation of a Secure Beef Supply plan to ensure consumers that they are procuring a supply of safe, wholesome, and healthy cattle. Additionally, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture will require the implementation of a Secure Beef Supply plan during an outbreak of a foreign animal disease to receive a livestock movement permit. This permit will be required by the State for all operations within a containment zone during a foreign animal disease outbreak.

If you would like to know more about developing a Secure Beef Supply plan, visit Secure Beef Supply. You can also contact Nebraska BQA at nebraskabqa@unl.edu or call 308.633.0158 for help developing a plan.



IDALS Launches Choose Iowa Food Purchasing Pilot Program for Food Banks

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig Wednesday announced the launch of the Choose Iowa Food Purchasing Program – Food Bank Pilot. The pilot program, which was authorized during the 2024 legislative session and is an initiative of the state’s Choose Iowa Program, aims to connect Iowa food banks with Choose Iowa members to help alleviate food insecurity within our communities. The announcement was made during the annual Iowa Hunger Summit organized by the World Food Prize Foundation and held at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates in Des Moines.

“Food insecurity is a real and pressing issue in communities big and small, urban and rural,” said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. “As the state’s signature brand for Iowa grown, Iowa raised, and Iowa made food, beverages and ag products, Choose Iowa is all about connecting consumers to great Iowa products produced by Iowa farmers and small businesses. And now thanks to the support from the Iowa Legislature and Gov. Reynolds this past session, Choose Iowa will also help connect farmers with food banks to combat food insecurity within our communities.”

Details of the Choose Iowa Food Purchasing Program – Food Bank Pilot
$225,000 is being allocated to assist Iowa food banks in providing nutritious food to those in our communities who are food insecure. State investment will be leveraged by participating food banks, who will match the state’s investment on a one-to-one (1:1) basis. Eligible purchases will include dairy products, meat and poultry, eggs, honey and produce. Six Iowa food banks and Des Moines Area Religious Council will purchase products from farmers and ag businesses that are Choose Iowa members. The six food banks include: Food Bank of Iowa, HACAP, River Bend Food Bank, Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Food Bank of Siouxland, and Food Bank for the Heartland. The reimbursement deadline is June 30, 2025.

Eligible Farmers and Producers
Food must be purchased from approved Choose Iowa members. A current list of members can be found on the Choose Iowa website. If farmers wish to have food purchased from food banks, they should apply to become a Choose Iowa member as soon as possible. Members enjoy a variety of benefits beyond being eligible to participate in this pilot program.

For farmers or businesses that need help enrolling in Choose Iowa or for those that have specific questions about the pilot program, contact chooseiowa@iowaagriculture.gov.



NASS to review acreage data

In preparation for the August Crop Production report, USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will review all available data, including survey data and the latest information from USDA’s Farm Service Agency and Risk Management Agency, for planted and harvested acreage for barley, corn, cotton, dry edible beans, oats, peanuts, rice, sorghum, soybeans, sugarbeets, Durum wheat, other spring wheat, and winter wheat. If the data review justifies any changes, NASS will publish updated planted and harvested acreage estimates in the Aug. 12, 2024, report.

NASS conducts planted and harvested acreage reviews based on administrative and survey information during the crop cycle each year as the data become sufficiently complete. Going forward, NASS will review available data for barley, corn, cotton, dry edible beans, oats, peanuts, rice, sorghum, soybeans, sugarbeets, Durum wheat, other spring wheat, and winter wheat in August; chickpeas, corn, cotton, dry edible peas, lentils, peanuts, rice, sorghum, soybeans, and sugarbeets in September; and canola, dry edible beans, and sunflowers in October.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 7/26/2024

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending July 26, ethanol production expanded 1.3% to a record high of 1.11 million b/d, equivalent to 46.58 million gallons daily. Output was 3.9% more than the same week last year and 8.9% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate increased 1.0% to a record high of 1.09 million b/d, which is equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.77 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks climbed 1.1% to a 10-week high of 24.0 million barrels. Stocks were 4.9% more than the same week last year and 6.7% above the five-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the East Coast (PADD 1) and Gulf Coast (PADD 3).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, faded 2.2% to 9.25 million b/d (142.19 bg annualized). Still, demand was 4.7% more than a year ago and 1.8% above the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol ticked up 0.1% to 919,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.13 bg annualized. Net inputs were 0.5% less than year-ago levels but 0.9% above the five-year average.

Ethanol exports were estimated at 58,000 b/d (2.4 million gallons/day), 1.8% more than the prior week. There were zero imports of ethanol recorded for the 45th consecutive week.



Anhydrous Leads Retail Fertilizer Prices Lower in Fourth Week of July 2024

Anhydrous fertilizer costs less than half of what it did in 2022, as the nitrogen fertilizer's average retail price continues its summer shrinkage.

The average retail price of all eight major fertilizers declined from the previous month, according to DTN survey data for the fourth week of July 2024. No prices moved more than 5%, a benchmark DTN uses to determine if a price change is significant.

At $677/ton, anhydrous is $14/ton less expensive than last year and $754/ton cheaper than 2022. It also had the largest month-over-month decline of all the fertilizers tracked by DTN at $28/ton.

Two other nitrogen fertilizers saw declines. The average prices of UAN28 and UAN32 dropped to $339/ton and $377/ton, respectively. Those prices are down $6/ton and $11/ton from last month.

DAP prices dropped $15/ton from last month to $745/ton.

Potash prices were $4 lower than last month at $502/ton. MAP prices declined $3 to $818/ton, and urea prices were $2 below last month at $504/ton.

The average price of 10-34-0 was $642/ton, just a few cents lower than last month.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.55/lb.N, anhydrous $0.41/lb.N, UAN28 $0.61/lb.N and UAN32 $0.59/lb.N.

All fertilizers except one are lower compared to one year ago. MAP is 3% more expensive compared to last year. Anhydrous is 2% cheaper; DAP is 6% lower; 10-34-0 is 10% less expensive; UAN28 is 11% lower; urea is 13% lower; potash is 15% less expensive; and UAN32 is 15% cheaper compared to a year prior.



Verity Ulibarri Elected U.S. Grains Council Chairwoman During Annual Summer Meeting

The delegates of the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) elected Verity Ulibarri of the United Sorghum Checkoff Program (USCP) as chairwoman of its USGC Board of Directors at its 64th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting held in Salt Lake City, Utah, yesterday.

“I feel this industry – farming, in particular; getting your hands dirty, praying for favorable weather, and managing and mitigating hazards while having extreme amounts of capital at risk and hoping for the best to build a brighter future- it’s a higher calling,” Ulibarri said. “When you answer that calling, you have a responsibility to make a difference - not just for yourself, but for an entire sector, community and industry – but ultimately for your family and our future generations.”

Ulibarri operates a family farm in Grady, New Mexico, producing sorghum, wheat, forage crops and cattle while also working as the agribusiness relationship manager at American AgCredit. Ulibarri has served on the Council’s Board of Directors since 2020 and previously served as the chairwoman for USCP in 2020.

In addition to Ulibarri, the delegates elected Mark Wilson of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board as vice chairman and Jay Reiners of the Nebraska Corn Board as secretary-treasurer. Jennie Schmidt of the Maryland Grains Producer Utilization Board and Curt Mether of Iowa Corn Growers Association were also elected as at-large directors.

The USGC Board of Directors now includes:
Verity Ulibarri, United Sorghum Checkoff Program: Chairwoman
Mark Wilson, Illinois Corn Marketing Board: Vice Chairman
Jay Reiners, Nebraska Corn Board: Secretary-Treasurer
Brent Boydston, Kansas Corn: Past Chairman
Jennie Schmidt, Maryland Grains Producer Utilization Board: At-Large Director
Curt Mether, Iowa Corn Growers Association: At-Large Director
Jim Reed, Illinois Corn Marketing Board: At-Large Director
Jim O’Connor, Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council: At-Large Director
Greg Hibner, J.D. Heiskell: Agribusiness Sector Director
Craig Willis, Eco-Energy: Ethanol Sector Director
Jay Fischer, Missouri Corn Growers Association: Corn Sector Director
Adam Schindler, United Sorghum Checkoff Program: Sorghum Sector Director
Josh Roe, Kansas Corn Commission: State Checkoff Sector Director
Nathan Boll, North Dakota Barley Council: Barley Sector Director
Ryan LeGrand, U.S. Grains Council: President and CEO

Ulibarri shared her goals for the year and unveiled her chairwoman’s theme, Cultivate the Future, during her incoming remarks.

“In my experience with the Council, we never have issues challenging the status quo – we push through existing boundaries and increase market share so that we build on what we have now and exceed current expectations – and I encourage each of you to continue that path forward,” Ulibarri said.



Soybean Farmers Provide $1.3 million Ceremonial Check for Soybean Meal Export Expansion

Soybean farmer leaders on July 30th presented the Port of Grays Harbor a ceremonial check in the amount of $1.3 million for the port’s Terminal 4 Expansion and Redevelopment Project.  The Soy Transportation Coalition held its summer board meeting in Vancouver, Washington, on July 29-30, in order to visit soybean and grain export facilities within the greater Pacific Northwest region that accounts for 25% of U.S. soybean exports.  On July 30th, the group traveled to the Port of Grays Harbor in Aberdeen, Washington, in order to tour the Ag Processing, Inc. (AGP) soybean meal export terminal and receive an update on its future expansion.

AGP, the Omaha-based cooperative that owns and operates ten soybean processing facilities in the Midwest, announced in March of 2022 a major expansion and upgrade to its export terminal at the Port of Grays Harbor.  AGP plans to construct additional storage at its Terminal 2 facility and develop a new ship loader at Terminal 4.  These investments – scheduled to be operational in late 2025 to early 2026 – will ultimately allow the AGP terminal to increase annual soybean meal exports from 3 million to over 6 million metric tons.  In order to accommodate this growth and investment, the Port of Grays Harbor will add 40,000 ft. of railroad track, build a new fendering system and stormwater collection and treatment facility, and create more than 30 acres of additional cargo storage area.  These investments will allow the port to efficiently handle the increased volume of soybean meal while mitigating the surface traffic impact to the local community.

Given the significant benefit these planned investments will provide to U.S. soybean farmers, the United Soybean Board, the Soy Transportation Coalition, the Iowa Soybean Association, the Kansas Soybean Commission, the Nebraska Soybean Board, the North Dakota Soybean Council, and the South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council committed $1.3 million to help offset some of the pre-engineering, design, and site development costs of the Port of Grays Harbor Terminal 4 Expansion and Redevelopment Project.  The funding commitment was announced in the fall of 2022.  The Soy Transportation Coalition’s summer 2024 board meeting provided the opportunity for the farmer leaders to visit the export facility and present the port with the ceremonial check.

During the check presentation ceremony, speakers included Phil Papac, President of the Port of Grays Harbor Commission; Mike Steenhoek, Executive Director of the Soy Transportation Coalition; Chris Brossart, a soybean farmer from Wolford, North Dakota and Chairman of the Soy Transportation Coalition and the North Dakota Soybean Council; Lowell Wilson, Chairman of the Board of AGP; and Leonard Barnes, Executive Director of the Port of Grays Harbor.

“As stewards of the funding through the soybean checkoff program, my fellow soybean farmers and I are constantly exploring any opportunity to increase the profitability of our industry,” said Chris Brossart.  “One of the most effective ways of achieving this is to invest in the supply chain that connects what we produce with our international customers.  The AGP soybean meal export facility at the Port of Grays Harbor is excellent example of this.  It is for this reason that farmer leaders from the United Soybean Board, the Soy Transportation Coalition, the Iowa Soybean Association, the Kansas Soybean Commission, the Nebraska Soybean Board, the North Dakota Soybean Council, and the South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council decided to invest $1.3 million toward this important project.”

One of the more profound developments within the soybean industry in recent history has been the proliferation of current and planned expansion of soybean processing throughout the United States – largely inspired by the demand for soybean oil as one of the primary feedstocks for the expanding renewable energy market.  These current and planned investments present a challenge and opportunity to effectively access markets for the increased soybean meal.  The farmer leaders of the Soy Transportation Coalition and other organizations are demonstrating their commitment to increasing U.S. soybean meal exports through this strategic investment.

“Soybean farmers have recognized that infrastructure can either be an impediment to farmer profitability and success, or it can be a facilitator of farmer profitability and success,” explained Mike Steenhoek.  “It all depends upon the degree to which we maintain and invest in our supply chain.  We are therefore very excited to support significant improvements to our supply chain like the investment at the Port of Grays Harbor.”

“This contribution aided this transformative project during a critical point,” shared Leonard Barnes.  “But this project isn’t just about Grays Harbor.  This project is about all of you – the farmers – and the transportation of a global food source.  And we can’t thank you enough for having the confidence in AGP, our Port, and this project to step up and be willing to play such a role.”

In October of 2022, the U.S. Maritime Administration announced the approval of the Port of Grays Harbor’s Port Infrastructure Development Program grant application.  The port received $25.5 million for their Terminal 4 Expansion and Redevelopment Project.  There were two motivations for soybean farmer organizations to provide funding for this important project: 1.) To provide meaningful investment to a project that will enhance U.S. soybean meal exports in the near future and 2.) For the Port of Grays Harbor and AGP to be able to highlight the funding commitment from farmer organizations, which would enhance the viability and competitiveness of their grant application.  Soybean farmers have a long history of seeing their funding leveraged – thereby helping accelerate project completion and increasing its scale and scope.  The investment by soybean farmers for the Port of Grays Harbor project is another terrific example of this.   

“Over the years, AGP has developed a very strong relationship with customers in southeast Asia,” explained Lowell Wilson.  “This project at the port will significantly improve speed, capacity, and product availability for the benefit of our current and future customers.  In short, the work being done here will ensure the direct link from the farmer to the international customer grows ever stronger.”   

“The financial contribution the Soy Transportation Coalition and the supporting associations have committed to this important infrastructure project does not go unnoticed by the Port and our community,” stated Phil Papac. “We are incredibly proud of the role the Port plays in exporting the crops that you grow, that AGP processes, and that help feed millions of people throughout the world.”  



ICASA Grants Seek to Address Liver Abscess Formation in Cattle

Bovine respiratory disease, commonly called “shipping fever,” is a serious animal welfare concern and the costliest disease affecting beef cattle in North America. Bovine respiratory disease is a multifactorial respiratory disease with multiple causes including viruses, bacteria and environmental stressors. Cattle affected by bovine respiratory disease generally die from late day pulmonary disease triggered by secondary bacterial diseases, like acute interstitial pneumonia. To prevent late day pulmonary disease from developing in cattle with bovine respiratory disease, and to promote antimicrobial stewardship, the International Consortium for Antimicrobial Stewardship in Agriculture (ICASA) awarded Dr. Brad White, Kansas State University (K-State) production medicine professor and director of the Beef Cattle Institute, a $1,223,474 research grant. An additional $1,223,474 in matching funds were provided by Colorado State University, Innovative Livestock Services, Five Rivers Cattle Feeding K-State, Mississippi State University, Nanostring, Texas A&M University and Veterinary Research & Consulting Services for a $2,446,948 total research investment.

Bovine respiratory disease costs ranchers in the United States about $900 million annually due to animal death, reduced feed efficiency and treatment costs. The disease is commonly treated with antibiotics to reduce these losses.

“Antibiotic resistance is a major global public health threat. Use of antibiotics over time results in bacteria becoming drug resistant, and infections become difficult or impossible to treat,” said Dr. Jasmine Bruno, Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research (FFAR) scientific program director. “Dr. White’s research can lead to the mitigation of a prevalent secondary infection problem in feedlot cattle, which would reduce the need for antibiotics and help the beef industry use antibiotics more judiciously and reduce losses.”

To address these concerns, White is building a multi-disciplinary team to research how the secondary diseases form in cattle infected with bovine respiratory disease. The team is sampling over 2,400 cattle in Kansas and Texas to assess mortalities in feedlots, where many deaths from late day pulmonary disease occur. The research aims to provide veterinarians and producers with the necessary information to make informed prevention and treatment decisions

Specifically, the team is creating a set of late day pulmonary disease uniform criteria, or surveillance case definitions, to enable stakeholders across geographies to classify and count cases consistently, which is a priority for the cattle industry. The team is also employing late day pulmonary disease predictive analytics, or historical data, to forecast potential scenarios, to identify high-risk cattle pens. Additionally, economic data collected as part of this grant will help determine optimal diagnostic intervention plans.

The research represents the most comprehensive assessment of risk factors and pathological characteristics of late day pulmonary disease ever reported, generating valuable results that will help ranchers and veterinarians improve animal welfare, mitigate the negative impacts of this disease while promoting antimicrobial stewardship.



NGFA, ag groups, spotlight rail capacity concerns in Mexico

The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group called on U.S. federal officials to address rail service capacity issues in Mexico that are hindering U.S. agricultural trade.

Demand for rail service coupled with insufficient investment in rail infrastructure has led to embargoes, congestion, and slowed servicing of U.S. agricultural products by Ferromex, a main rail carrier in Mexico, the groups said in a July 31 letter to Surface Transportation Board Chairman Robert Primus, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai.

Agricultural shippers have encountered rail service constraints with Ferromex for almost a year due to the rail line’s need for rationing and the relatively lower rates for agricultural products, the groups noted.

“We urge you to speak with your colleagues in Mexico to encourage increased investment in the country’s rail network and to ensure U.S. agricultural products do not disproportionately bear the burden of rail service constraints,” the letter states.

Mexico is the largest export market for U.S. agricultural products with over $30 billion in U.S. agricultural products exported to Mexico in the past year.

“As our most natural trading partner, Mexico is a critical stakeholder for the U.S. agricultural supply chain,” the groups said. “However, the United States’ proximity advantage over agricultural competitors like Brazil and Russia is reduced by the rail capacity problem, leading to higher exports into Mexico from these competitors.”



Growth Energy Files Notice of Intent to Sue EPA for Delayed 2026 RFS Set Rule

Growth Energy, the nation's largest biofuel trade association, today filed a notice of intent to sue the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the agency's anticipated failure to meet its statutory deadline for issuing the 2026 Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

EPA is required by law to finalize RFS volumes for 2026 by November 1, 2024. However, the White House's recently-published Spring 2024 unified agenda indicates that the agency will not finalize the 2026 RVO until December 2025, more than a year late.

"The law doesn't change just because EPA gives advance notice of its failure to comply," said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. "America's biofuel producers and their farm partners rely on the certainty the RFS provides in order to make investments that bear fruit in the form of lower fuel costs for consumers, more jobs in rural communities, and lower carbon emissions. Growth Energy has held EPA accountable for its delays in the past, and we will continue to do so in order to ensure that the agency follows the law and that biofuel producers can plan for the future."

Growth Energy has filed similar lawsuits to force EPA to comply with its statutory deadlines in 2020 and in 2021. In 2022, Growth Energy and EPA submitted a consent decree agreement to the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia that required EPA to propose the 2023 renewable fuel volume requirements no later than November 16, 2022, and to finalize those requirements no later than June 14, 2023. On November 4, 2022, Growth Energy agreed to a two-week extension on the proposal, and EPA filed its proposed RVOs for 2023-2025 on December 1, 2022. That proposal was ultimately revised and finalized by the agency in June 2023, following another one-week delay to which Growth Energy also consented.