Wednesday February 08 Ag News

 Fischer, Capito, All Republican Senators Formally Challenge Biden Admin WOTUS Rule Through Congressional Review Act

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, joined U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and all 47 of their Senate Republican colleagues in introducing a formal challenge to the Biden administration’s Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule through a Congressional Review Act (CRA) joint resolution of disapproval.

The resolution comes after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced a new rule in December 2022 repealing the Navigable Waters Protection Rule (NWPR), and changing the definition of Waters of the United States in a way that will expand federal regulatory authority.

“Nebraskans own the water in our state and already work carefully to protect this precious resource. We don’t need the federal government imposing even more regulations on private landowners. This reckless rule will unfairly hurt Nebraska’s agriculture producers, home builders, and small businesses. I’m proud to stand with Senator Capito to introduce this resolution to overturn the President’s burdensome regulation,” said Senator Fischer.

“With its overreaching navigable waters rule, the Biden administration upended regulatory certainty and placed unnecessary burdens directly on millions of Americans. This Congressional Review Act resolution of disapproval will give every member of Congress the chance to stand with farmers, ranchers, landowners, and builders, and protect future transportation, infrastructure, and energy projects of all kinds in their states. I appreciate the widespread support we’ve received in both the Senate and House, and across the country, as we fight to place an important check on this misguided overreach from the Biden administration,” said Senator Capito.

In addition to Sens. Fischer and Capito, the resolution was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), John Thune (R-S.D.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), John Kennedy (R-La.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Mike Lee (R-Utah), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).

U.S. Representative Sam Graves (R-Mo.), chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I), introduced an identical resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Background:
In 2015, the Obama administration finalized a rule that expanded the definition of WOTUS, creating confusion and burdensome red tape.

The Trump administration released a proposed rule to replace the 2015 WOTUS rule with a new one that provided much-needed predictability and certainty for farmers by establishing clear and reasonable definitions of what qualifies as a “water of the United States.” The NWPR was finalized in 2020.

On day one of his administration, President Biden signed an executive order to begin the process of rolling back the Trump administration’s NWPR.

In December 2022, the EPA issued a new rule repealing the NWPR and changing the definition of WOTUS in a way that will expand federal regulatory authority.



 Nebraska LEAD 40 Travels to Costa Rica, Colombia, and Panama

Twenty-one Nebraska LEAD 40 Fellows recently returned from the 2023 International Study/Travel Seminar to Costa Rica, Colombia, and Panama.  

“Our international study/travel seminar is designed to provide firsthand appreciation and understanding of our international community and the potential for people of all nations to work together,” said Terry Hejny, Nebraska LEAD Program Director and group leader.      

During the January 5-18 seminar, LEAD Fellows visited and studied at CATIE (Centro Agronomico Tropical de Investigacion y Ensenanza) near Turrialba. CATIE is an international entity with a unique combination of science, graduate education and innovation for development. LEAD Fellows received briefings and tours of CATIE’s research on agricultural practices in cropping, conservation and livestock systems. LEAD 40 also toured the Aquiares Coffee plantations and processing facility.  

While in Bogota, the LEAD Fellows participated in briefings that included Don Mason, Project Specialist in Colombia, U.S. Meat Export Federation; Abigail Mackey - Agricultural Attaché and Jose Quintero, Agricultural Specialist with the USDA Foreign Ag Service; and Miguel Galdos, Regional Director, U.S. Wheat Associates. Traveling outside of Bogota, LEAD 40 visited the working cattle ranch of Juan Ramon Giraldo Arciniegas, who shared the history, philosophy, and management of his family’s Normando cow/calf operation. Later, the class visited Ayura Flowers, a carnation flower production farm growing several varieties of export quality cut flowers.  

Near Cali, Colombia, the LEAD Fellows visited AGROSAVIA Research Center, which is dedicated to researching production of tropical fruits important to Colombian trade and economics. AGOSAVIA is funded primarily by the Colombian Ministry of Agriculture. In addition to research, they are charged to preserve many of the varieties of tropical fruits common in the region. Near Medillen, Colombia, the LEAD Fellows visited the Colombian Coffee Federation’s scientific investigation headquarters (CENICAFE) and received presentations on coffee cultivation techniques, scientific development, main regions of productions, the role of the small producer, and sustainable development within the industry.  

While in Panama, the LEAD Fellows visited the Panama Canal and the Miraflores Locks, visited pineapple and watermelon farms and participated in briefings that included Ana Maria Ballesteros, Regional Director, U.S. Grains Council; Peter Olson, Agricultural Attaché, USDA Foreign Ag Service; Stephanie Bryant-Erdmann, Assistant Regional Director, U.S. Wheat Associates, and Carlos Salinas, Regional Director, U.S. Soybean Export Council.  

“The people-to-people encounters provided the members of Nebraska LEAD Group 40 an opportunity to view characteristics, conditions and trends in Costa Rica, Colombia, and Panama allowing them to determine relationships to issues and situations in our country,” Hejny said. “Through this experience LEAD Fellows develop techniques in identifying comparisons and contrasts of the countries they studied in areas such as agriculture, politics, economics, energy, religion, culture and history as well as technology, trade, food, art and philosophy.”

Nebraska LEAD 40 Fellows by hometown that traveled to Costa Rica, Colombia, and Panama are:  
AURORA: Mitch Oswald
COZAD: Andrew Bellamy
DAVID CITY: Nate Parde
GREENWOOD: Steve Landon
HEMINGFORD: Timothy Hashman
KEARNEY: Abe Smith, Hannah Swink
LINCOLN: Austin Benes, Kurtis Harms, David Moss, Rachel Prosser, Stephanie Schuler, Logan Sheets, Curtis Welsh
LITCHFIELD: Cole Lewandowski
MINDEN: Stephanie Nelson
NORFOLK: Trentee Bush
SAINT EDWARD: Dylan Haas
SCOTTSBLUFF: Blake Wohlers
UPLAND: Chris Grams
WAHOO: Eric Coufal

The Nebraska LEAD Program includes men and women, currently active in production agriculture and agribusiness and is a two-year leadership development program under the direction of the Nebraska Agricultural Leadership Council, in cooperation with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

For more information, or to request an application for Nebraska LEAD 42, contact the Nebraska LEAD Program, 104 Agricultural Communications Building, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0940, telephone 402-472-6810 or email the Nebraska LEAD Program at leadprogram@unl.edu. The application deadline is June 15.



NE Corn Board to Meet

The Nebraska Corn Board will hold its next meeting in the afternoon of Monday, February 27, 2023, on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus and Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at Embassy Suites in Lincoln (1040 P Street, Lincoln, Nebraska). The board will address regular board business on February 28.

The meeting is open to the public and will provide an opportunity for public discussion. A copy of the agenda is available by writing to the Nebraska Corn Board, 245 Fallbrook Blvd. Suite 204, Lincoln, NE 68521, sending an email to renee.tichota@nebraska.gov or by calling 402-471-2676.

The Nebraska Corn Board is funded through a producer checkoff investment of ½-cent-per-bushel checkoff on all corn marketed in the state and is managed by nine farmer directors. The mission of the Nebraska Corn Board is to promote the value of corn by creating opportunities.



WSSA Announces 2023 Awards for Outstanding Achievements in Weed Science
 
The Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) recently honored nearly two dozen individuals for their outstanding contributions to the field of weed science. The awards were presented during the organization’s 2023 annual meeting attended by individuals from academia, government and private industry.
 
FELLOWS (WSSA’s highest honor):
    Antonio DiTommaso, Ph.D., Cornell University
    Peter Porpiglia, Ph.D., AMVAC Chemical Corporation
 
OUTSTANDING RESEARCH AWARD
    John Lindquist, Ph.D., University of Nebraska-Lincoln
 
OUTSTANDING EARLY CAREER WEED SCIENTIST
    Vipan Kumar, Ph.D., Kansas State University
 
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE STUDENT AWARD
    Taylor Randell-Singleton, Ph.D. Candidate, University of Georgia
 
EXCELLENCE IN JOURNALISM AWARD
    Brad Haire, Southeast Farm Press
 
OUTSTANDING TEACHER AWARD
    Dean Riechers, Ph.D., University of Illinois

OUTSTANDING INDUSTRY AWARD
    Sandeep Rana, Ph.D., Bayer

PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD
    Bill Chism, Ph.D., EPA, Office of Pesticide Programs (Retired)
 
US-HRAC HERBICIDE RESISTANCE MANAGEMENT AWARD
    Amit Jhala, Ph.D., University of Nebraska−Lincoln

OUTSTANDING PAPER: INVASIVE PLANT SCIENCE AND MANAGEMENT
Assessing the performance and accuracy of invasive plant habitat suitability
models in detecting new observations in Wisconsin. Authors:
    Mark Renz, Ph.D., University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Niels Jorgensen, Ph.D., Opterrix

OUTSTANDING PAPER: WEED SCIENCE
Quantifying seed and establishment limitation to seedling recruitment of arable weeds: an example of barnyardgrass (Echniochloa crus-galli). Authors:
    Friederike de Mol, Ph.D., University of Rostock (Germany)
    Christian Selig, Ph.D. Candidate, University of Rostock
    Bärbel Gerowitt, Ph.D., University of Rostock
 
OUTSTANDING PAPER: WEED TECHNOLOGY
The Impact of Electrocution Treatments on Weed Control and Weed Seed Viability in Soybean. Authors:
    Kevin Bradley, Ph.D., University of Missouri
    Haylee Schreier, MS, University of Missouri
    Mandy Bish, Ph.D., University of Missouri
 
OUTSTANDING REVIEWER AWARDS
    Weed Technology: Pete Eure, Ph.D., Syngenta
    Invasive Plant Science and Management: Erik Lehnoff, Ph.D., New Mexico State University
    Weed Science: Thierry Besançon, Ph.D., Rutgers University
 
HONORARY WSSA MEMBER AWARD
    Michael Walsh, Ph.D., University of Western Australia
 
The Weed Science Society of America, a nonprofit scientific society, was founded in 1956 to encourage and promote the development of knowledge concerning weeds and their impact on the environment. The Society promotes research, education and extension outreach activities related to weeds, provides science-based information to the public and policy makers, fosters awareness of weeds and their impact on managed and natural ecosystems, and promotes cooperation among weed science organizations across the nation and around the world.



Crop Producers Need to Act on Farm Bill Decisions by March 15

Crop producers must make some important and timely decisions if they want to participate in the Farm Bill programs for 2023.

The deadline to make an election and enroll is March 15, according to Ann Johanns, education extension specialist and manager of the Ag Decision Maker with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

For program year 2023, producers have three options: Agriculture Risk Coverage-County (ARC-CO), Price Loss Coverage (PLC) or Agriculture Risk Coverage-Individual Coverage (ARC-IC). Even if producers have enrolled in the past and want to keep the same program, they still need to enroll this year, by March 15. Enrollment is an annual decision.

“To be eligible for payment, producers must complete the enrollment contract for each of their farms,” said Johanns. “Every situation is unique, so we need to make the best decisions for individual farm operations and take the opportunity to make changes if necessary.”

For this month’s Ag Decision Maker, Johanns created two YouTube videos (https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/info/farmbill.html) that explain the options and what producers need to consider in making the best option for their farm. In the first video, Kevin McClure, chief agriculture program specialist with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency, explains the programs and enrollment process.

In the second video, Alejandro Plastina, associate professor in economics and extension economist at Iowa State, discusses the tools producers can use to determine which program is best for their own situation. The tools include payment estimators for each program, and historical payment data by Iowa county.

“We are updating these tools as new price projections and yield data are made available,” said Johanns. “We know that every situation is unique and there are going to be folks out there making this decision for the first time. Updated tools are available, along with archived materials covering the programs more in-depth. Our farm management specialists are also available for those one-on-one conversations, before producers commit to a program.”



Grants Available for Communities Impacted by 2020 Derecho

The Iowa Legislature appropriated state infrastructure funds to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to be used for a community-based tree planting program for derecho recovery tree planting in 27 impacted counties.

Additionally, through the USDA Forest Service & National Association of State Foresters 2022 State Urban Forest Resilience Grant Program, the DNR received Emerald Ash Borer Reforestation funds.

The Community Forestry Grant Program provides reimbursable grants to be used to purchase and plant trees suitable to Iowa in counties impacted by both the August 2020 Derecho and Emerald Ash Borer. A total of $125,220 in funds are available to state and local governments, schools and volunteer organizations, and service organizations in the 27 impacted counties.

Award recipients will be reimbursed $1,000 to $10,000 for the purchase of trees and materials from Iowa businesses. Qualifying public planting lands include, but are not limited to, street rights-of-way, parks, school grounds, courthouse lawns, public buildings, fairgrounds, cemeteries, libraries, and trails (DNR lands are not eligible).

The spring application and rules are available online at www.iowadnr.gov/urbanforestry. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on March 3.



Organic No-Till Production Guide Provides Useful Information

Organic producers looking to increase benefits from a no-till system now have a guidebook to walk them through the process.

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach publication “Organic No-Till Production” at https://bit.ly/3DuwEnd provides a “how-to” for organic no-till production in Iowa, which utilizes a rolled down cover crop to facilitate weed suppression, with the commercial crop drilled, planted or transplanted into the rolled mulch. The publication offers an overview of different rolling/crimping systems, an economic outline of costs and returns, and provides producers with the resources they need to secure potential Crimping roller in action.funding from the USDA-NRCS cost-share programs supporting organic no-till.

More producers are investigating organic no-till production in Iowa, with best results coming from the rolled rye/soybean system. In order for the system to work successfully, the amount of cover crop biomass is extremely important. Research recommends at least 8,000 lbs. per acre of rolled rye biomass to create a thick enough mulch to block sunlight to the weeds, allowing the crops to better compete with the weeds.

“We see great benefits from organic no-till in relation to soil quality improvements,” said Kathleen Delate, organic specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “The challenge remains to ensure adequate rolled rye biomass to effect ample weed management to obtain competitive yields.”

Additional resources on organic agriculture can be found on the Iowa State University Organic Agriculture Program website.



2022 Beef Exports Set Annual Records; Strong Finish for Pork Exports

U.S. beef exports set annual records for both volume and value in 2022, according to year-end data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Pork exports finished lower year-over-year but export value was the third largest on record, trailing only the highs reached in 2020 and 2021. Pork exports continued to gain momentum in December, led by another outstanding performance in Mexico. While lamb exports slowed in December, 2022 shipments were sharply higher than the previous two years, approaching the pre-COVID levels of 2019.

Beef exports reach new heights in several key markets
Despite slowing toward the end of the year, beef exports reached 1.47 million metric tons (mt), up 2% from the previous high in 2021. Export value climbed to a record $11.68 billion, up 10% from 2021 and nearly 40% above the previous five-year average. The U.S. exported a record share of its record-large beef production in 2022, and at higher prices. Export value to South Korea was $2.7 billion, up 13% and an all-time record for any single destination, while exports to China/Hong Kong jumped 22% to $2.55 billion. Other markets in which beef exports achieved annual records included Taiwan, the Philippines, Singapore, Colombia, Guatemala and the Dominican Republic.

In December, beef exports trended lower than a year ago at 112,707 mt, down 7%, while value fell 21% to $782.6 million. The December decline was due in part to a sharp drop in exports to China/Hong Kong, where demand had been constrained by persistent zero-COVID policies. China lifted most COVID restrictions in early December and resumed some international travel in early January. Along with the recent easing of COVID-related cold chain regulations and inspections, these changes offer a more optimistic demand outlook for 2023.

“2022 was a ground-breaking year for U.S. beef’s international presence, with global demand stronger than I’ve seen in all my years in the industry,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Late in the year, exports certainly felt the impact of persistent headwinds in our large Asian markets, including depressed trading partner currencies and COVID-related challenges in China, but the long list of countries in which records were set showcases the industry’s focus on diversifying export markets. While the year ahead will be challenging due to supply constraints, the exchange rate situation has improved and we still see room for growth in the foodservice sector as more regions continue their gradual rebound from COVID.”

Pork highlights include $2 billion year for Mexico, value record for variety meat
Pork exports finished 2022 on a decidedly upward trajectory as December shipments reached 244,718 mt, up 13% year-over-year and the second largest of 2022 (slightly below November). December export value climbed 14% to $687.3 million. These results pushed 2022 exports to 2.67 million mt, down 8.5% from a year ago, while export value was $7.68 billion – down 5% from the record achieved in 2021. Exports of U.S. pork variety meat were the second largest on record at more than 530,000 mt, while export value was record-high at $1.27 billion.

Pork exports to Mexico set a volume record in December on the way to a record-breaking year in which exports increased 10% to nearly 960,000 mt. Export value to Mexico soared 21% to $2.03 billion, topping the $2 billion mark for the first time. December exports also set a value record in Central America and trended higher year-over-year to China/Hong Kong, the Dominican Republic, the Philippines and Australia. 2022 exports to the DR were record-large in both volume (85,551 mt, up 46%) and value ($233.6 million, up 55%).

“The Mexican market has been a star performer for U.S. pork for many years, but the 2022 results were truly remarkable,” Halstrom said. “In the face of growing competition in Mexico, the U.S. pork industry has expanded product offerings and found innovative ways to meet the needs of processors, retailers and foodservice operators. In addition to Mexico, it is gratifying to see such a broad range of markets contributing to our recent export growth, making the prospects for 2023 very promising.”

Strong year for lamb exports, led by Caribbean and Mexico
Exports of U.S. lamb muscle cuts finished 2022 sharply higher year-over-year at 2,225 mt, up 59% and the largest since 2019. Export value increased 49% to $13.2 million, also the highest since 2019. Growth was led by strengthening demand in the Caribbean, where exports increased 47% to 1,043 mt, valued at $7.5 million (up 32%). Exports also increased substantially year-over-year to Mexico, Canada, the Philippines and Taiwan.



UAN Fertilizers Lead Prices Lower Last Week of January 2023

Average retail fertilizer prices moved lower again the last week of January 2023, continuing a trend that has been present since just before the beginning of the year, according to retailers surveyed by DTN. Once again, seven of the eight major fertilizers are less expensive compared to last month. Of these seven, five were markedly lower compared to last month. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Leading the way lower are UAN32 and UAN28. UAN32 was 13% lower in price compared to last month and had an average price of $583 per ton. UAN28 was 10% less expensive looking back a month and had an average price of $518/ton. UAN32 is below the $600/ton level for the first time since the fourth week of October 2021. That week the average price was $522/ton.

A trio of fertilizers are 6% less expensive compared to last month. Potash had an average price of $704/ton, urea $698/ton and anhydrous $1,223/ton. Urea is below the $700/ton level for the first time since the first week of October 2021. That week urea's price was $653/ton. DAP and MAP were just slightly lower in price looking back a month. DAP had an average price of $847/ton while MAP was at $862/ton.

One fertilizer was just slightly higher in price compared to a month earlier. 10-34-0 had an average price of $754/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.76/lb.N, anhydrous $0.75/lb.N, UAN28 $0.93/lb.N and UAN32 $0.91/lb.N.

All fertilizers are now lower compared to one year ago. DAP is 3% less expensive, MAP is 8% lower, 10-34-0 is 9% less expensive, potash is 13% lower, UAN28 is 14% less expensive, UAN32 is 17% lower, anhydrous 18% less expensive and urea is 23% lower compared to a year prior.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 2/3/2023

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending February 3, ethanol production contracted by 2.7% to 1.000 million b/d, equivalent to 42.00 million gallons daily. Production was 0.6% above the same week last year but 0.2% below the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate increased 1.4% to 1.012 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.51 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks moved fractionally lower to 24.4 million barrels. Stocks were 1.5% less than a year ago yet 2.3% above the five-year average. Inventories thinned across all regions except the East Coast (PADD 1) and Midwest (PADD 2).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, pared back 0.7% to 8.43 million b/d (129.20 bg annualized). Demand was 7.6% less than a year ago and 2.9% below the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol declined 2.3% to a 5-week low of 819,000 b/d, equivalent to 12.56 bg annualized. Net inputs were even with year ago levels but 3.2% below the five-year average.

There were zero imports of ethanol recorded for the ninth consecutive week. (Weekly export data for ethanol is not reported simultaneously; the latest export data is as of December 2022.)



RFA Reports Highlight Record Value of Ethanol, Distillers Grains Exports in 2022

According to new statistical reports released today by the Renewable Fuels Association, the value of the U.S. ethanol industry’s exports soared to a record level of $7.2 billion in 2022. Ethanol export volumes strengthened to 1.35 billion gallons in 2022, the fourth-highest level on record, amid tight global fuel supplies. Meanwhile, distillers grains shipments registered at 11.0 million metric tons, down slightly from 2021.

For a decade, RFA’s annual trade summaries have provided industry advocates, policymakers, news media, and the public with the latest data and analysis, demonstrating the importance of U.S. ethanol and distillers grains to the world market.

“At a time when global petroleum and agricultural markets were affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. ethanol industry was proud to enhance energy security at home while at the same time augmenting fuel and feed supplies overseas,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “Exports generated over $7 billion in revenues, providing a vital market for U.S. ethanol producers. Additionally, American-made ethanol helped improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions in more than 80 countries around the world.”

As detailed in the ethanol trade summary report, the 1.35 billion gallons exported in 2022 represented an increase of 9 percent over 2021 and the highest volume since 2019. The value of U.S. ethanol exports surged to $3.77 billion, a record high and an increase of $1 billion over 2021. Shipments to Canada set an annual record for a single destination, tallying more than 500 million gallons. South Korea, the European Union, India, Mexico, and the United Kingdom also were sizable markets.

U.S. imports of fuel ethanol rebounded 36 percent to 79 million gallons, with virtually all imports sourced from Brazil. Still, the United States remained a net exporter for the thirteenth consecutive year, as imports accounted for less than 1 percent of domestic consumption.

The second trade summary report released today covers co-product exports, including distillers grains, a high-protein feed ingredient for livestock and poultry. Distillers grains exports totaled 11.0 million metric tons in 2022, representing nearly a third of domestic production. While export volumes were 5 percent lower than 2021, their value surged to a record $3.4 billion.

The U.S. supplied distillers grains to more than 50 countries. Mexico remained the top export market with a 20 percent share, followed by Vietnam and South Korea.



RFA to Testify before Senate EPW Committee on Potential of a National Clean Fuels Program

Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper has been invited to testify next week at a hearing of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. The focus of the hearing is on the prospects of low-carbon transportation fuels and considerations for a potential national clean fuels program.

“Ethanol and other low-carbon renewable fuels already have a proven track record for significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector at a low cost for consumers,” Cooper said. “And as we look to the future, a technology-neutral clean fuels program could accelerate decarbonization, while simultaneously creating jobs and bolstering energy security. I look forward to sharing the industry’s perspective on how ethanol and a market-oriented clean fuels policy can help our nation achieve a goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.”

Cooper noted that today’s ethanol already reduces GHG emissions by 44-52% and RFA’s producer members are committed to ensuring ethanol achieves a net-zero carbon emissions footprint by 2050 or sooner.

Tuesday February 07 Ag News

Farm Sector Profits Forecast to Fall in 2023
USDA Economic Research Service

Net farm income, a broad measure of profits, is forecast at $136.9 billion in calendar year 2023, a decrease of $25.9 billion (15.9 percent) relative to 2022 in nominal (not adjusted for inflation) dollars. This follows a forecast increase of $21.9 billion (15.5 percent), from $140.9 billion in 2021 to $162.7 billion in 2022. After adjusting for inflation, net farm income is forecast to decrease $30.5 billion (18.2 percent) in 2023 relative to 2022. Despite this expected decline, net farm income in 2023 would be 26.6 percent above its 20-year average (2002–2021) of $108.1 billion in inflation-adjusted dollars.

Net cash farm income is forecast at $150.6 billion in 2023, a decrease of $39.4 billion (20.7 percent) relative to 2022. This follows a forecast increase of $40.4 billion (27.0 percent) from 2021 to 2022. When adjusted for inflation, 2023 net cash farm income is forecast to decrease by $44.7 billion (22.9 percent) from a forecast record high of $195.3 billion in 2022. Despite the decrease, net cash farm income in 2023 would be 15.4 percent above its 2002–2021 average of $130.5 billion. Net cash farm income encompasses cash receipts from farming as well as cash farm-related income (including Government payments) minus cash expenses. It does not include noncash items—including changes in inventories, economic depreciation, and gross imputed rental income of operator dwellings—reflected in the net farm income measure.

Cash receipts from the sale of agricultural commodities are forecast to decrease by $23.6 billion (4.3 percent, in nominal terms) from a forecast record high of $543.4 billion in 2022 to $519.9 billion in 2023. Total crop receipts are expected to decrease by $8.9 billion (3.1 percent) from the forecast 2022 level, led by lower receipts for soybeans and corn. Total animal/animal product receipts are expected to decrease by $14.7 billion (5.7 percent), following declines in receipts for milk, eggs, broilers, and hogs.

Also contributing to forecast lower income in 2023 are lower direct Government payments and higher production expenses. Direct Government payments are forecast to fall by $5.4 billion (34.4 percent) from 2022 to $10.2 billion in 2023. This decrease is expected largely because of lower supplemental and ad hoc disaster assistance in 2023 relative to 2022. Meanwhile, total production expenses, including operator dwelling expenses, are forecast to increase by $18.2 billion (4.1 percent) to $459.5 billion in 2023. Interest expenses and livestock/poultry purchases are expected to see the largest dollar increases in 2023 relative to 2022.

Average net cash farm income for farm businesses is forecast to decrease 17.7 percent from 2022 to $92,400 per farm in 2023 (in nominal terms). All nine ERS Farm Resource Regions are expected to see average net cash farm income fall in 2023 relative to 2022, in nominal dollars, with farm businesses located in the Fruitful Rim and Northern Crescent expected to see the largest decline. When grouped by commodity specialization, all commodity specializations of farm businesses are forecast to see lower average net cash income in 2023. Those specializing in dairy and hogs are expected to see the largest decline relative to 2022.

Farm sector equity is expected to increase by 5.0 percent in 2023 to $3.5 trillion in nominal terms. Farm sector assets are forecast to increase 5.2 percent in 2023 to $4.0 trillion following expected increases in the value of farm real estate assets. Farm sector debt is forecast to increase 6.2 percent in 2023 to $535.1 billion. Debt-to-asset levels for the sector are forecast to increase from 13.09 percent in 2022 to 13.22 percent in 2023. After increasing in 2021 and 2022, working capital is forecast to fall 11.2 percent in 2023 relative to 2022.

Median Income of Farm Operator Households Forecast to Increase Nominally, Decrease After Inflation, in 2022 and 2023
Median total farm household income is forecast to increase in 2022 to $94,853 and again to $96,715 in 2023. That is a nominal increase of 2.8 percent (a 3.6-percent decline after inflation) between 2021 and 2022, and a 2.0-percent nominal increase (a 0.8-percent decline after inflation) in 2023 from the previous year.

Farm households typically receive income from both farm and off-farm sources. Median farm income earned by farm households is forecast to decrease in 2022 to -$683 from $210 in 2021, and then forecast to decline further to -$1,125 in 2023. Many farm households primarily rely on off-farm income: median off-farm income in 2022 is forecast at $88,201, an increase of 6.5 percent (a decrease of 0.2 percent after inflation) from $82,809 in 2021, and to continue increasing by 3.3 percent (0.4 percent after inflation) to $91,080 in 2023. Since farm and off-farm income are not distributed identically for every farm, median total income will generally not equal the sum of median off-farm and median farm income.



NCF is Accepting Scholarship Applications

Each year, the Nebraska Cattlemen Research and Education Foundation (NCF) offers scholarships to help students continue pursing their academic careers. This would not be possible without many generous donors who believe in positioning the future of the beef cattle community for success.

NCF is currently accepting scholarship applications for the 2023-2024 academic year from qualified youth. Applications are available on the Nebraska Cattlemen website or can be obtained by calling the NCF office at (402) 475-2333.

Below you will find descriptions and deadlines for NCF scholarships. Please refer to the Nebraska Beef State Scholarship application and the general scholarship application for complete selection requirements.

NEBRASKA CATTLEMEN BEEF STATE SCHOLARSHIP
The prestigious Nebraska Cattlemen Beef State Scholarship awards a $10,000 scholarship to an outstanding college junior, senior or graduate-level student. Eligible students must be residents of Nebraska and be enrolled in a Nebraska college or university pursuing a beef industry-related degree. The scholarship will be awarded based on student need, Nebraska beef industry involvement including past achievements and future plans, and academics. Completed applications are due in the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation office by close of business on Wednesday, February 15, 2023. Incomplete applications and applications received after the due date will be disqualified. Finalists will be invited to a personal interview with the selection committee.

$1,000 MINIMUM SCHOLARSHIPS
NCF offers numerous other $1,000 minimum scholarships, awarded on the basis of academic achievement, beef industry involvement and goals/quality of the application. Completed applications are due in the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation office by close of business on Wednesday, March 15, 2023. Incomplete applications and applications received after the due date will be disqualified. Scholarship recipients must be a high school senior or college student, have a "C" or higher grade point average, and be enrolled or intending to enroll full time in a college or university that offers a bachelor degree, an approved vocation or trade school, or a state accredited junior college.

All scholarship winners will be announced during the Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Midyear Meeting in June 2023.



NWGGA LAUNCHES 2023 NEBRASKA WINE PASSPORTS - NOW OFFERING A DIGITAL FORMAT!

Be the first to explore Nebraska's wine scene with the 2023 Nebraska Wine Passport brought to you by the Nebraska Winery and Grape Growers Association (NWGGA). The 2023 passport is the perfect way to experience the finest in Nebraska wines. With over 30 participating Nebraska wineries and tasting rooms, the passport offers a unique way to discover local wines and learn more about the Nebraska wine industry.

The NWGGA is excited to offer the 2023 Nebraska Wine Passport in a printed and digital format. The printed option consists of a map of Nebraska showing the location of Nebraska's wineries and tasting rooms and information about each location. The digital pass can be found directly at GO.NebraskaWines.com and offers the same information in a convenient digital web-based app that can be pulled up directly on a smartphone browser, with no downloading required.

The 2023 Nebraska Wine Passport digital program kicked off in early February, and official passports can be picked up at participating wineries, tasting rooms, and local visitor bureaus starting March 1. Passports can also be downloaded or requested in advance at www.NebraskaWinePassport.com. This year of the program features 24 Nebraska wineries and 10 tasting rooms. The NWGGA had a record number of passports requested in 2022 and hopes more people will visit Nebraska's award-winning wineries in 2023. No purchase is necessary to obtain stamps for the passports, but visitors are encouraged to enjoy a glass, tasting, or take home a bottle or two!

Exclusive to the digital pass are special offers and discounts from some of the participating wineries and tasting rooms, as well as point-based prize redemptions that can be used throughout the year. Prizes include the ever-popular wine bucks, which can be used to purchase wine by the glass or bottle at each location. Prizes and redemptions also include prize drawings and a grand prize drawing for a wine basket that includes: a wine tumbler, $100 in Nebraska wine bucks, and two tickets to the 2024 TOAST Nebraska Wine Festival.

The Nebraska Wine Passport program promotes Nebraska wines and encourages people to visit communities and interact with other businesses across the state.

We encourage Nebraskans to visit all the wineries and tasting rooms on the 2023 Nebraska Wine Passport. The NWGGA is proud to play a significant role in Nebraska’s growing wine and tourism industries.



Tentinger is Congressman Feenstra’s Guest at Tonight’s State of the Union Address

Chad Tentinger, lead developer of Cattlemen’s Heritage Beef Company’s proposed $450-million beef-processing facility in Mills County, Iowa, is U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra’s guest at President Biden’s State of the Union address tonight.

Tentinger praised Feenstra as “a great advocate for farmers and small-town Iowa.”

Feenstra, who represents Iowa’s Fourth Congressional District, which includes Mills County, joined U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley in the previous Congress to introduce the Cattle Price Discovery and Transparency Act ­to ensure that independent cattle producers receive a fair price for their high-quality products.

“From his entrepreneurial spirit to his commitment to his community, Chad is the personification of the American Dream and the perfect representative of our rural Iowa values,” Feenstra said. “I am proud to work with folks like Chad to bring transparency to the cattle market, fight back against the EPA’s destructive WOTUS regulations, and lower input costs for our job creators, innovators, and independent cattle producers. I look forward to welcoming Chad to our nation’s capital and reminding President Biden that rural America deserves a seat at the table.”

Cattlemen’s Heritage Beef Company plans to break ground this year on a $450-million beef processing plant on 132 acres just south of Council Bluffs. The facility, which is expected to open in late 2024, will process 2,000 head of cattle daily and create good-paying jobs for the region.



Iowa Renewable Fuels Producers are “Energized, but a Little Angry”

During his state of the industry address at the 2023 Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit today, Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) Executive Director Monte Shaw said that the Iowa biofuels industry is “energized, but a little bit angry.” The mixed mood derives from the expanding opportunities to grow renewable fuels use coupled with ongoing efforts by some elected officials and interest groups to block those very possibilities.
 
“The Iowa renewable fuels industry is energized, but a little bit angry,” stated Shaw. “Producers are energized because the world is demanding clean, affordable, renewable energy, and we can deliver. Why a bit angry? To put it simply, we are sick and tired of the unnecessary roadblocks from elected officials and interest groups that want to protect their cherry-picked forms of energy – whether that be supporters of fossil fuels or electric vehicles.”
 
One source of frustration cited by Shaw was when “the White House broke its promise” to have the Midwest E15 solution finalized in time for the 2023 summer driving season. “Someone in the White House put the brakes on. This will cause irreparable harm to thousands of fuel retailers and millions of consumers. To put it bluntly, we were told to be patient and keep quiet, and everything would be fine for this summer…So, yes, we’re a little bit angry.”
 
Another challenge are groups who want to completely block Iowa ethanol producers from utilizing carbon capture and sequestration (CCS). Shaw remarked, “I’m not here today to ask you to support carbon policies or clean fuel tax credits. I am here to ask you to honestly consider the real-world impact they have on Iowa’s ethanol plants. If we want to maintain or grow Iowa ethanol production, it will require CCS.”
 
Shaw also highlighted the results of new research quantifying the impact of renewable fuels production on the Iowa economy. The new study, authored by John Urbanchuk of ABF Economics, found the production of ethanol and biodiesel accounts for nearly $7.2 billion in state GDP, supports more than 57,000 jobs throughout the economy, and boosts Iowa household income by over $3.5 billion.
 
“Renewable fuels have changed the economic trajectory of Iowa,” stated Shaw. “I believe that is an impact worth fighting to maintain and expand. We will roll up our sleeves and get to work energized by the nearly limitless possibilities for renewable fuels and renewable products as we look to the horizon.”



Winners Announced in Contest Showcasing Swine Research
    
A research project involving swine dysentery was the top winner of a research poster competition, organized by the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) research committee and the Iowa Pork Industry Center (IPIC) in Ames. Swine dysentery can cause up to $236 million in economic damage to the U.S. hog herd annually.

In its second year, the contest was once again sponsored by Cargill during the 2023 Iowa Pork Congress in Des Moines the last week of January. Participants were students at Iowa State University (ISU) in Ames who are studying a variety of areas that are relevant to pork production. Other winning poster topics included the impacts of heat stress on production efficiencies and heart health, as well as the effects of fertilizers and cover crops on yield and drainage water quality.

The first-place award for $1,000 went to Maria Hakimi, a graduate student in ISU’s Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine. In collaboration with two ISU professors, she evaluated which commonly used drugs work best for preventing and treating swine dysentery, a severe infectious disease that causes diarrhea and weight loss.

“It was really good interacting with people from different backgrounds—veterinarians and producers,” said Hakimi, of Ames. “Getting feedback was really helpful to know what we need to do next.”

Tori Rudolph won the $500 second-place prize for a project that looked into the impact of prolonged heat stress on production outcomes for male and female growing pigs.

“With summers getting hotter, heat stress is a growing problem in the United States and across the world,” said Rudolph, a native of Burlington, Wis. She added that heat stress costs the U.S. swine industry nearly $1 billion annually.

Missey Roths, a graduate student in ISU’s animal physiology program, received third place and $500. She and four others are named on research that suggests heart damage from heat stress could contribute to decreased animal performance. Roths is from Clarion.

Another round of judging was determined by Iowa Pork Congress attendees. The Producer’s Choice winner was Gabby Myers, from Underwood, a graduate student in ISU’s Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering.

She received $500 from IPPA for her project that assessed the impacts of agricultural management practices on corn yield and drainage water quality. The study suggests sustainability practices that improve the environmental footprint of hog production.

A total of 12 research projects were in the contest.



Monthly Dairy Webinar On Feb 15 Focus on Forage Storage Options

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy Team monthly webinar series continues on Wednesday, February 15 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. This program will focus on evaluating forage storage options for your farm.

Brian Dougherty is a field agricultural engineer for ISU Extension and Outreach. His dairy-related extension work focuses on facilities, ventilation, manure management, composting, and the effects of cropping systems on soil health and water quality.

He will discuss factors to consider when evaluating forage storage alternatives. He will also cover general facility siting and design and discuss tools and tips for selecting the best fit for your operation.

Producers, dairy consultants, and industry reps are encouraged to attend the free webinar live from noon to 1:00 p.m. on January 18 by pre-registering at: https://go.iastate.edu/KDMGKW.  

For more information contact the ISU Extension and Outreach Dairy Field Specialist in your area: in Northwest Iowa, Fred M. Hall, 712-737-4230 or fredhall@iastate.edu; in Northeast Iowa, Jennifer Bentley, 563-382-2949 or jbentley@iastate.edu; in East Central Iowa, Larry Tranel, 563-583-6496 or tranel@iastate.edu.



Global Demand for Fuel Ethanol Through 2030

Consumption of ethanol as a transportation fuel (largely sourced from corn) has seen significant growth in the last couple of decades in the United States.

A new report issued today by USDA’s Economic Research Service, Global Demand for Fuel Ethanol Through 2030, summarizes the current U.S. and international fuel ethanol markets and provides projections of future fuel ethanol demand in these markets.

Here are a few key findings from the report:
    Ethanol manufacturers use about 40 percent of the U.S. corn crop for ethanol and related co-products, with the majority of the ethanol being consumed in the domestic transportation fuel market.
    Recently, demand for ethanol saw reductions in response to measures taken to combat the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, such as pandemic-related restrictions, remote work and school, and other social distancing efforts. Though U.S. ethanol consumption has largely recovered from these COVID-19 impacts, increased adoption of hybrid or electric vehicles and continued fuel efficiency gains in gasoline vehicles may decrease domestic gasoline consumption, which in turn could decrease fuel ethanol demand.
    For 2021 to 2030, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimates and projections indicate U.S. consumption of ethanol in motor gasoline and E85 is expected to increase between 196 million gallons (1.4 percent) and 1.4 billion gallons (10.4 percent), depending on U.S. economic growth over the decade.
    Total global demand for gasoline is expected to stagnate over the next decade, leaving changes in blend rates—domestically or abroad—as the main determinant for future changes in fuel ethanol demand.

For more detailed information, please refer to the full report https://www.ers.usda.gov/webdocs/outlooks/105762/bio-05.pdf?v=1322.9.



Pace of U.S. Ethanol Sales Slows at Year End while DDGS Exports Rally
Ann Lewis, Senior Analyst, Renewable Fuels Association  

December U.S. ethanol exports slipped 9% to a 17-month low of 74.2 million gallons (mg), or 41% less than the volume shipped a year ago. Essentially all U.S. ethanol exports landed in just eight countries, with Canada securing an unprecedented 66% of total exports. December marks Canada’s 21st month as our largest customer with 48.8 mg (up 2% from Nov.) moving across the border, the bulk of which was denatured ethanol. U.S. ethanol exports quadrupled to the Philippines (to 8.8 mg, an 11-month high) and doubled to Jamaica (to 4.1 mg, nearly a 3-year high). Mexico (4.0 mg) imported 23% fewer gallons while South Korea (3.9 mg) cut imports in half. Vietnam, which imported U.S. ethanol for essentially the first time since July 2020, purchased a record 2.4 mg. Some significant markets for U.S. ethanol were noticeably absent in December, including the European Union, Brazil, and India. Total U.S. exports for the year were 1.35 billion gallons, the fourth highest on record.

The U.S. imported 2.2 mg of undenatured ethanol from Brazil. Total U.S. imports for the year were 79.3 mg, or 36% more than 2021.

U.S. exports of dried distillers grains (DDGS), the animal feed co-product generated by dry-mill ethanol plants, leapt 22% to a three-month high of 887,433 metric tons (mt). While the mix of larger customers varied from recent norms, Mexico remained our top customer for the sixth consecutive month despite an 18% decline to 169,032 mt (equivalent to 19% of December exports). Shipments to South Korea bounced back 35% to 124,216 mt and Colombia imported a record 64,373 mt. Other larger markets included Vietnam (61,964 mt, -9% to a 10-month low), United Kingdom (58,149 mt, up from zero to the largest monthly volume in over 4 years), Canada (57,287 mt, -5%), Indonesia (56,248 mt, +7%), Turkey (48,891 mt, +246%), Japan (46,850 mt, +23%), and the European Union (40,740 mt, +48%)—primarily to Ireland. Notably, imports to China hit an 11-month high (27,985 mt) while Taiwan imported the largest volume in 11 years (27,595 mt). Total U.S. DDGS exports for the year of 11.0 million mt were 4% more than 2021.



NMPF Statement on Record Dairy Exports
President and CEO Jim Mulhern

“For the third consecutive year, U.S. dairy farmers have proven how their dedication to innovation and sustainability leadership increasingly have made them the world’s provider of choice for nutritious dairy products. In both value and in volume, U.S. sales are at all-time highs, and in 2022, a record percentage of U.S. milk production was exported overseas. This happened despite the headwinds our exporters battled last year, which included supply chain challenges, a lack of new trade agreements to establish more level playing fields abroad, and other barriers to trade that threatened to upend progress.

“Let this be a signal to the world: U.S. dairy farmers are, and will be, a growing force for global nutrition, sustainability and health, as shown by the increasing preference of consumers worldwide for the products they create. We’re excited to see today’s year-end export totals reflect a vision we’ve been pursuing for decades, and we look forward to seeing further progress in the years to come.”



USDA Develops Simplified Direct Loan Application to Improve Customer Service

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has developed a simplified direct loan application to provide improved customer experience for producers applying for loans from the Farm Service Agency (FSA). The simplified direct loan application enables producers to complete a more streamlined application, reduced from 29 to 13 pages. Producers will also have the option to complete an electronic fillable form or prepare a traditional, paper application for submission to their local FSA farm loan office. The paper and electronic versions of the form will be available starting March 1, 2023.

“USDA is committed to improving our farm loan processes to better serve all of our borrowers,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “We’re consistently looking for ways to make the application process easier to navigate, so more producers are able to complete it. Our new direct loan application is a critical step forward in our efforts to improve customer service and build equity into not just our programs but also our services.”

Approximately 26,000 producers submit a direct loan application to the FSA annually, but there is a high rate of incomplete or withdrawn applications, due in part to a challenging and lengthy paper-based application process. Coupled with the Loan Assistance Tool released in October 2022, the simplified application will provide all loan applicants access to information regarding the application process and assist them with gathering the correct documents before they begin the process. This new application will help farmers and ranchers submit complete loan applications and reduce the number of incomplete, rejected, or withdrawn applications.  

In October 2022, USDA launched the Loan Assistance Tool, an online step-by-step guide that provides materials to help an applicant prepare their farm loan application in one tool. Farmers can access the Loan Assistance Tool by visiting farmers.gov/farm-loan-assistance-tool and clicking the ‘Get Started’ button. The tool is built to run on any modern browser like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or the Safari browser. A version compatible with mobile devices is expected to be available by the summer. It does not work in Internet Explorer.  

The simplified direct loan application and Loan Assistance Tool are the first of multiple farm loan process improvements that will be available to USDA customers on farmers.gov in the future. Other improvements that are anticipated to launch in 2023 include: 
    An interactive online direct loan application that gives customers a paperless and electronic signature option, along with the ability to attach supporting documents such as tax returns.  
    An online direct loan repayment feature that relieves borrowers from the necessity of calling, mailing, or visiting a local Service Center to pay a loan installment. 

USDA provides access to credit to approximately 115,000 producers who cannot obtain sufficient commercial credit through direct and guaranteed farm loans. With the funds and direction Congress provided in Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act, USDA took action in October 2022 to provide relief to qualifying distressed borrowers while working on making transformational changes to loan servicing so that borrowers are provided the flexibility and opportunities needed to address the inherent risks and unpredictability associated with agricultural operations. 

Soon, all direct loan borrowers will receive a letter from USDA describing the circumstances under which additional payments will be made to distressed borrowers and how they can work with their FSA local office to discuss these options. Producers can explore all available options on all FSA loan options at fsa.usda.gov or by contacting their local USDA Service Center.



Over-the-counter to Prescription Change for Antimicrobials Signals Shift for Livestock Producers

Livestock producers will start noticing a change in how they access specific antimicrobial products, as some products will be switching from over-the-counter (OTC) to prescription (Rx) only status as a result of U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Guidance for Industry (GFI) #263. The guidance calls for animal drug manufacturers to change medically important antimicrobial drugs from OTC to Rx status by June 11, 2023. Now is the time to plan for a smooth transition, and Zoetis is actively working with veterinarians and producers in this time of change to help ensure continued access to the company’s animal health products.

“We have long been committed to working with veterinarians and livestock producers to help them establish veterinarian-client-patient relationships [VCPR] that put the animal’s best interests at the center of the conversation,” said Mike Lormore, DVM, Head of U.S. Cattle & Pork Technical Services at Zoetis. “Now more than ever, it is important to ensure that a VCPR is in place, and revisiting treatment protocols and where products are available will be keys to success.”

Antimicrobial products from Zoetis that will be affected include:
    Albadry Plus® (penicillin G procaine and novobiocin sodium intramammary infusion) Suspension for cattle
    Albon® (sulfadimethoxine) Boluses for cattle
    Lincomix® (brand of lincomycin injection) for swine
    Liquamycin® LA-200® (oxytetracycline injection) for cattle and swine
    Terramycin® (oxytetracycline hydrochloride and polymyxin B sulfate ophthalmic ointment) for sheep, cattle, horses
    Terramycin® (oxytetracycline HCl) Scours Tablets for cattle

The FDA has requested that label changes for these products be in place by June 11, 2023.

“This change matches with our industry goal of helping veterinarians and producers be good stewards of antibiotic products through judicious use,” Dr. Lormore said. “Once the guidance is in effect, it is important that these products are used under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian going forward.”

Antibiotic stewardship and judicious use are keys to successful disease treatment and helping to provide the best possible animal health outcomes. Zoetis supports the livestock industry through a One Health approach for the responsible use of antimicrobials. This approach includes advocating for the health of animals and those who care for them; innovating and investing in research that provides enhanced solutions; and collaborating with leaders in veterinary, human and public health as well as the food industry to preserve animal health and welfare.

“We strongly encourage producers to talk to their veterinarian about these changes to avoid surprises in where and how they can access animal health products,” Dr. Lormore said. “Don’t be caught unaware. Have a plan. Additionally, our commitment to supporting veterinarians and the livestock industry as a whole is unchanged, and we are providing resource materials and educational pieces on products that were previously available over the counter.”

This switch should prompt positive producer-veterinarian conversations that allow for revisiting animal health treatment protocols. Putting a plan in place now will help ensure access to the products needed later in the year.

Questions to keep in mind for those conversations:
    What prevention and treatments are recommended for operation-specific disease pressures?
    Will the antimicrobials I am currently using be affected by the switch?
    How can affected products be accessed after June 11,2023?
    Are there disease prevention protocols that could be implemented to help reduce disease risks before they occur and increase my operation’s success?

For more information about this transition, visit with your veterinarian and local Zoetis representative.



Despite the Toughest Conditions in Years, Farmers Planting Pioneer® Brand Sorghum Continue Winning Streak in NSP Yield Contest

The results of the National Sorghum Producers (NSP) Yield Contest have been announced, and farmers who grew Pioneer® brand sorghum hybrids represented more than 80% of all national first-, second- and third-place winners and earned four of seven first-place national honors. The winning extended to the state level, where farmers who grew Pioneer brand sorghum won 35 of 47 state first-, second- and third-place titles, accounting for 75% of all state category winners.

Many sorghum producers battled exceptionally difficult weather conditions all season, including extreme drought in key sorghum production areas. The results drove down overall sorghum yields to levels not seen since 1984, but producers who planted Pioneer brand sorghum still managed to deliver winning results.

“Sorghum farmers are accustomed to challenges, but this year really demonstrated the importance of selecting hybrids that are capable of performing in the toughest conditions,” said LeAnn Larson, Pioneer Sorghum Marketing Manager. “We saw several national NSP winners who grew Pioneer brand sorghum submit their harvest results from a 100-acre contest plot instead of the required 10, showing how consistently strong the yield results were across their fields.”

Over the past five years, more than 80% of the NSP Yield Contest national winners grew Pioneer brand sorghum hybrids, demonstrating a clear pattern of top-end yield performance across diverse geographies and various field management practices.

The NSP Yield Contest awards participating farmers with first, second and third places in each of seven divisions: dryland-no till east, dryland-no till west, dryland-tillage east, dryland-tillage west, irrigated-east, irrigated-west and food grade.



AGCO Reports Fourth Quarter Results

AGCO, a worldwide manufacturer and distributor of agricultural equipment and solutions, reported net sales of $3.9 billion for the fourth quarter of 2022, an increase of 23.6% compared to the fourth quarter of 2021. Reported net income was $4.29 per share for the fourth quarter of 2022, and adjusted net income (3) , which excludes restructuring expenses and a charge related to the divestiture of a Russian joint venture, was $4.47 per share. These results compare to reported net income of $3.75 per share and adjusted net income (3) , which excludes restructuring expenses and the reversal of a valuation allowance previously established against the Company’s deferred tax assets in Brazil, of $3.08 per share, for the fourth quarter of 2021. Excluding unfavorable currency translation impacts of 9.2%, net sales in the fourth quarter of 2022 increased 32.7% compared to the fourth quarter of 2021.

“Our record results in 2022, underscored by net sales of approximately $12.7 billion and adjusted operating margin of 10.3%, are the result of continued execution of our strategy,” stated Eric Hansotia, AGCO’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our performance was fueled by robust demand for our industry-leading products coupled with continued solid global industry demand. Our farmer-first focus was highlighted by our fourth quarter results that not only delivered record net sales and operating margin, but also generated substantial free cash flow. These results are further evidence that our precision ag technology and premier equipment are in high demand and are driving productivity improvements for our farmers while providing us margin-rich growth opportunities.”

Mr. Hansotia continued, “For 2023, we expect continued sales growth and margin expansion as industry demand remains strong and our farmer-first strategy continues to gain traction. We assume global market conditions will remain healthy, as favorable farm economics allow farmers to continue to invest in new more productive equipment and technology upgrades. While improving, we expect supply chain pressures will persist, presenting challenges throughout the year. We remain focused on growing our high-margin precision ag business, globalizing the full-line of our Fendt branded products and expanding our parts and service business. We will continue to accelerate investments in premium technology, smart farming solutions and enhanced digital capabilities to support our farmer-first strategy while helping to sustainably feed the world.”

Fourth Quarter Highlights
    Reported fourth quarter regional sales results (1) : Europe/Middle East (“EME”) +21.7%, North America +22.1%, South America +66.4%, Asia/Pacific/Africa (“APA”) (23.1)%
    Constant currency fourth quarter regional sales results (1)(2)(3) : EME +37.9%, North America +23.2%, South America +57.9%, APA (14.5)%
    Fourth quarter regional operating margin performance: EME 14.6%, North America 7.4%, South America 20.0%, APA 9.0%
    Full-year reported operating margins and adjusted operating margins (3) improved to 10.0% and 10.3% respectively, in 2022 compared to 9.0% and 9.1% in 2021
    Generated $838.2 million in cash flow from operations and $449.9 million in free cash flow (3) for the full-year 2022

Net sales for the full year of 2022 were approximately $12.7 billion, which is an increase of 13.6% compared to 2021. Excluding unfavorable currency translation impacts of 8.5%, net sales for the full year of 2022 increased 22.1% compared to 2021. For the full year of 2022, reported net income was $11.87 per share, and adjusted net income (3) , excluding impairment charges, restructuring expenses and other related items, was $12.42 per share. These results compare to reported net income of $11.85 per share and adjusted net income (3) , which excludes restructuring expenses and the reversal of a valuation allowance previously established against the Company’s deferred tax assets in the United States and Brazil, of $10.38 per share in 2021.



CLAAS Announces the Next Generation XERION Tractor

CLAAS of America announces updates to the 2023 XERION tractor line. The latest model delivers even more, offering best-in-class performance right where four-wheel drive tractor growers need it with powertrain upgrades, improved hydraulic flow and added versatility.

Since the North American launch, the XERION line of high-horsepower tractors has been known for its refined ride, high transport speeds, excellent fuel economy and a whisper-quiet cab. The high-horsepower (435-530 hp) tractor offers confidence-inspiring technology with a higher level of capability, ultimately helping customers work more productively and efficiently.

“We designed the XERION to be our customers’ favored choice for true tractor capability,” said Frans Reijmers, CLAAS tractor product manager. “The enhancements to 2023 models build on its core strengths and provide the power, a better balance in the design and operator confidence that makes tackling those all-day, tough jobs more convenient than ever.”

New Transmission, Proven Features
Tackle steep terrain and experience a smoother ride with the all-new Eccom 5.5 continuously variable transmission (CVT). Like previous transmission technology (Eccom 4.5 and ZF Eccom 5.0), the Eccom 5.5 is also a 4-range CVT that better transfers the engine’s torque and power for superior efficiency and higher productivity. A maximum forward speed of 31 mph can be achieved at a low, fuel-saving rpm.

Industry’s Highest Hydraulic Power
The switch to the new Eccom 5.5 enables higher hydraulic flow than not only just its predecessor, but also competitive brands. With up to six double-acting rear spool valves, a brand new pump transfer gearbox and optional tandem pumps allow an oil flow of up to 111 gallons per minute – more than sufficient hydraulic volume for implements with a particularly high oil flow requirement, such as wide air seeders. Up to two spool valves can be supplied with a high flow rate of 37 gallons per minute with standard load-sensing working hydraulics.

In addition, two spool valves (standard equipment) and three spool valves when equipped with the optional tandem pump can be prioritized in CEBIS. A separate and optimized 120 hp hydraulic system with 66 gallons per minute at 3,770 psi is available for attachments such as manure tanks and front-mounted implements requiring high-horsepower hydraulics. A hydraulic dual-circuit trailer brake can also be supplied for North American customers.

Intelligent Ballasting And Conveniences
Also available in model year 2023 units is a new base weight plate for the multi-purpose carrier space behind the cab. Using the intelligent ballast concept with additional 882 Ib. weight plates and ballastable front weight, up to 15,432 Ibs. of additional ballast can be loaded. Depending on the application, the XERION can be optimally balanced for a 50:50 weight distribution under load for maximum multi-pass effect.

The lineup enhancements in the new model year includes XERION 5000 and 4500 models in TRAC or TRAC VC configurations. In celebration of its 25th year in production, all model year 2023 XERION tractors will come with a limited-edition anniversary sticker at time of delivery.

Monday February 06 Ag News

 RURAL NEBRASKANS MORE PESSIMISTIC IN 2022, POLL SHOWS

Rural Nebraskans are more pessimistic about their current and future well-being, as well as changes in their communities, according to the 2022 Nebraska Rural Poll.

Since its beginning 27 years ago, the poll has asked respondents about their current situation, as well as their outlook on the future. This year, the proportion believing they are worse off than they were five years ago was 21%, up from 11% last year. This is the highest level since 2013, when 26% believed they were worse off.

However, the increase in pessimism about the future did not translate into increased pessimism about the present. This year, half of rural Nebraskans surveyed believe they are better off compared to five years ago, similar to the 52% reported last year. What did shift was the proportion saying they are about the same as they were five years ago. This year, three in 10 think they are about the same, a decline from nearly four in 10 last year.

The increased pessimism is also reflected in respondents’ expectations of their well-being 10 years from now, said Becky Vogt, manager for the Rural Poll. Respondents’ optimism about the future has declined slightly in the past three years. Forty-four percent of rural Nebraskans surveyed believe they will be better off in a decade. This has steadily declined from 52% in 2019, the highest proportion across all years of the study.

“While current conditions in rural Nebraska are challenging, respondents still have a favorable view of the future,” said Steve Schulz, associate professor of supply chain management at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

The past three years have also seen an increase in feelings of powerlessness by rural Nebraskans. The proportions that either strongly disagree or disagree that people are powerless to control their own lives have steadily declined the past three years, from 54% to 47%. The proportion that either strongly agree or agree with the statement has steadily increased from 24% in 2019 to 34% this year.

As might be expected given the increased inflation rates at the time of the survey, respondents were less satisfied with their financial security during retirement and their current income this year. Satisfaction with their financial security during retirement decreased from 49% to 41%. Similarly, satisfaction with their current income level declined from 59% to 53%.

Rural Nebraskans surveyed are also less positive about the current change and expected future change in their communities this year. For the second year in a row, the proportion believing their community has changed for the worse during the past year was greater than the proportion saying it has changed for the better. In fact, the proportion saying their community has changed for the worse was 31%, the highest proportion in the survey’s history. Similarly, the proportion believing their community will be a worse place to live 10 years from now increased to 27% this year, the highest proportion in the survey’s history.

“This speaks to the reality that what worked for communities in the past may no longer be what people are looking for in the future,” said Amanda Tupper, Rural Prosperity Nebraska extension educator. “Yet as many communities have focused their efforts on attracting and retaining people, this changing community landscape opens the door to an opportunity to engage with current residents to identify those key factors impacting satisfaction with community change and reverse the negative trend.”

This year, rural Nebraskans surveyed are less positive about the leadership in their community. While 55% agreed their community leaders did a good job overall in 2015 — the first year the poll asked about leadership — only 48% agree this year. Respondents are also less likely to believe they are preparing youth to be effective community leaders.

Other findings from this year show that rural Nebraskans surveyed see technology as a tool that can be used by community leaders to engage more residents. Fifty-three percent agree or strongly agree that community leaders should use technology such as mobile apps or social media to better engage with residents. Younger Nebraskans specifically see the value in using technology. Respondents also believe getting more residents to take leadership roles in their community is critical to its future, as well as volunteering. Even so, many say they are volunteering less.

“Hope for rural communities is not a whimsical concept that is difficult to measure,” Schulz said. “Hope requires community members to recognize the will for improvement and the way or path for improvement in the future. Consistent perceptions about the importance of community leadership and growing pessimism about current leaders in rural Nebraska could create opportunities and challenges for the future. The development of the next generation of leaders in rural Nebraska will require increased community engagement and volunteerism to be successful”

This year, 1,105 rural Nebraskans completed the Nebraska Rural Poll — an 18% response rate.  

The poll, now in its 27th year, is sent to 7,000 households annually in rural communities across the state. It is the largest annual poll gauging rural Nebraskans’ perceptions about policy and quality of life. The margin of error is plus-or-minus 3%. Complete results are available at https://ruralpoll.unl.edu. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Department of Agricultural Economics conducts the poll with funding from Nebraska Extension.



NRCS and NRDs Partner on Dam Assessments

To ensure water infrastructure safety, Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) on several dam assessments across the state.

In 2022, nine floodwater reduction dam assessments were completed with four NRDs – Lewis & Clark, Lower Elkhorn, Lower Platte North and Lower Platte South. The cities of Norfolk and Plattsmouth were also joint local partners.

Dam assessments are detailed inspections that analyze the current hazard classification, determine if the dam meets current design standards and evaluate if any deficiencies are present. In some cases, corrective action may be listed to address deficiencies or to meet design standards. Dam assessments are funded under the NRCS Watershed Rehabilitation Program, which was authorized in 1981.

“NRCS is pleased to provide technical and financial assistance to partners like NRDs and communities for addressing dam safety,” said Nebraska State Conservationist Rob Lawson.  “Our purpose is to help local sponsors identify any needed improvements to ensure long-term structural integrity.”

NRCS’s first focus is to complete assessments on dams that provide flood protection upstream of towns and cities. Because of their location, these structures are classified as “high hazard” by the state of Nebraska and thus receive top priority for review.

“While local sponsors have done a great job operating and maintaining dams over the years, repairs or alterations may be needed as infrastructure ages,” said NRCS Dam Safety Engineer Bob Sullivan. “Many of these structures were built 40 to 60 years ago.”

On behalf of participating NRDs, the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) coordinates the dam assessments with NRCS and local engineering firms.

“Completing these assessments is the first step in securing additional federal funding to help address any dam deficiencies that may be found,” said NARD Executive Director Dean Edson. “This program is vital in helping NRDs protect the lives, property, and future of Nebraskans.”

This partnership will continue in 2023 with 18 additional dam assessments planned across Nebraska.



Elkhorn Valley Cattlemen to host Banquet April 1
Allan Louthan, President

The Elkhorn Valley Cattlemen Association is excited to announce that they are bringing back their association banquet. Please make plans to join us on Saturday, April 1, in the Community Building at the Stanton Co Fairgrounds. We will kick off the evening with a social at 6:30 pm followed by a prime rib meal at 7:00 pm. This banquet is an opportunity for friends of the beef industry to share in an evening of education and fun.

Please consider donating to help our association support youth scholarships along with promotion and education events in Madison and Stanton counties. Banquet sponsorship levels:
 - Grand Champion $500 – includes 4 banquet tickets.
 - Reserve Champion $300 – includes 2 banquet tickets.
 - Purple Ribbon $200 – includes no banquet tickets.

If you would like to support our organization, please mail your check to:
    Elkhorn Valley Cattlemen
    Allan Louthan
    84488 569 Ave.
    Stanton NE 68779
    402-841-6601

Tickets to the banquet can be purchased for $45. To purchase tickets, contact Allan Louthan 402-841-6601 louthanmaines@hotmail.com or Will McClymont 402 649-3195. Deadline for ticket purchase is March 20. We look forward to seeing you on April 1st!



Carter names UNL chancellor search advisory committee

University of Nebraska System President Ted Carter announced today that he has appointed a 16-member committee of students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members to help guide the search for the next chancellor of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

The search committee will be chaired by Tiffany Heng-Moss, dean of UNL’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. Other members are:
·         Jason Ball, president, Lincoln Chamber of Commerce.
·         Mike Cassling, chairman and CEO, Cquence Health Group.
·         Lawrence Chatters, executive associate athletic director for strategic initiatives, Husker Athletics.
·         Jacob Drake, UNL student body president/student regent and a senior political science major.
·         Megan Elliott, Johnny Carson Endowed Director in Emerging Media Arts, UNL.
·         Alex Fernando, assistant director of recruitment for UNL’s College of Journalism and Mass Communications.
·         Venn Jemkur, executive vice president of UNL’s Graduate Student Assembly and a graduate student in appeal design.
·         Kelli Kopocis, UNL Faculty Senate president-elect and an assistant professor of practice in the Durham School of Architectural Engineering and Construction.
·         Lisa Lunz, president, Ag Builders of Nebraska.
·         Mark McHargue, president, Nebraska Farm Bureau.
·         Debbie Minter, UNL Faculty Senate president and an associate professor in the Department of English.
·         Marilyn Moore, board president, Nebraska Alumni Association.
·         Moises Padilla, director of UNL’s Nebraska College Preparatory Academy.
·         Don Voelte, board chair, University of Nebraska Foundation.
·         Catherine Wilson, associate professor in the Nebraska College of Law.

Carter thanked all members of the university community who submitted nominations for the committee.

“I’m excited to bring together this broad group of Nebraskans who care deeply about the next chapter for our flagship university,” he said. “They will play a crucial role in our search for the right person to lead UNL forward. We thank them in advance for the commitment, input and leadership they will bring to this important process.”

Among other duties, members of the search advisory committee will help gather and provide stakeholder input on the qualities the next chancellor should possess and key opportunities and challenges facing the university. The committee also will work with AGB Search, the firm hired by Carter to assist with the chancellor search, to develop a position profile, identify potential candidates and review applications.

All members of the university and broader communities are invited to attend a series of listening sessions this week to provide input on the chancellor search. Listening sessions begin Tuesday and include both in-person sessions on the UNL’s City and East campuses as well as Zoom sessions. 

Feedback on the search may also be submitted directly at https://go.unl.edu/unl-chancellor-search.



PASTURE LEASING RATES
– Todd Whitney, NE Extension Educator

Pasture rental rates are predicted to increase by 3.5% in 2023; pegging the third consecutive year of significant rental increases. Establishing fair pasture rates can be a challenge. The most popular method is using ‘current market rates’ based on average county rental rates for each county or region of the state. The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service provides annual average county pasture values each August. In 2022, Nebraska regional rates ranged from $14 in Northwest to $40 in Southcentral to $89 in the Northeast.

The UNL Center for Agricultural Profitability also provides updated pasture rental values in the Nebraska Farm Real Estate Market Survey. Values are provided as cash rental rates along with cow-calf pairs and stocker rates. For current rates visit the Nebraska Farm Real Estate website at: http://cap.unl.edu/realestate

Those in severe drought impacted regions might consider pricing leases based on grazing animal unit months (AUM’s) OR rent per head per month of grazing; rather than flat rates per acre or cow-calf pair. A clause might be added to cover livestock water in case water sources go dry. Typically, pasture weed control is a landlord expense; but if the pasture was overgrazed due to drought; weed control costs might be shared between land owners and tenants.

Finally, stocker or feeder cattle producers might consider a rent per pound of gain method For example, the tenant might pay 50 to 60 cents to the pasture owner for each animal pound gained during the pasture grazing.

More educational resources such as the new Nebraska Extension Budget sheets are available online at: cap.unl.edu; cropwatch.unl.edu or beef.unl.edu. 



Nebraska Agri-Business Association Holds 65th Annual Exposition and Announces Industry Awards

The 65th Nebraska Agri-Business Exposition was held January 24-25, 2023 for the first time in Kearney, Nebraska at the Younes Conference Center North. This day-and-a-half event consisted of educational training in conjunction with the Nebraska Extension’s Crop Production Clinics and a show of vendor exhibits.

The Nebraska Agri-Business Association (NeABA) honored industry leaders at its annual convention in Kearney on Monday, January 23. Steve Wellman, 27th Director of Agriculture was awarded the 2022 Association Partner Award. This award highlights individuals outside the association’s membership, who have contributed to agriculture in a significant way through their profession. Under Director Wellman’s guidance, his department provided leadership and clear communication with industry leaders during challenging issues, including flooding and COVID supply chain disruptions.

Gene Liebig was recognized with the “Award of Industry Distinction.” This special honor is not given annually and is reserved for individuals who have been dedicated to the mission of the Association during his lifetime. Gene lives in Kearney. His over 40-year career included working for Cornbelt Chemical, United Suppliers, Meridian Ag Distribution and Simplot.

Gene served in many leadership roles for the Association, including two terms on the Board of Directors. He was active on numerous committees and spent time traveling to Washington DC to advocate for the industry.

Gene’s greatest impact on the Association was his dedication to attending, supporting and encouraging others to be involved. The Association could always count on Gene to step up when support was needed. He believed in the mission and was an advocate for the importance of having a strong organization representing the ag retail industry. He continually worked to grow the membership, participation, and involvement of others.

These awards were presented by Shannon Harney, Chairman of the Association and an Oakland, Nebraska resident. Shannon is the location manager for Helena Agri-Enterprises, LLC in Oakland and Ashland, Nebraska.

Presented by Michael Killinger, Association Board Member was the “Robert L. Anderson Industry Person of the Year” award. This award honors a member of the Nebraska Agri-Business Association for their exemplary service to the industry. The recipient is Jesse Trotter of Trotter Grain & Fertilizer in Arcadia, Nebraska. Jesse officially joined the family business in 1987 and currently has the role of managing the fertilizer operation and coordinating the Trotter ag retail locations in Central Nebraska. As a hands-on manager, Jesse certainly wears many hats that have contributed to the success and growth of Trotter Grain & Fertilizer.

In the last 30 years Trotter has expanded their fertilizer operation in Ord to include a bulk liquid storage facility, creating the need for Trotter Trucking. Additional fertilizer storage and plants were added at Litchfield and Merna, bringing their fertilizer operation to 16 locations.

The first “Applicator of the Year” award was presented to Jason Majors of George Brothers Fertilizer & Propane in Sutton, Nebraska. This award was established to recognize a commercial applicator providing outstanding service, good stewardship in their community and exceptional leadership through mentoring or training.

Jason started his application career in 1994 with Sutton Coop Grain. In 2004, he joined George Brothers as an applicator and over the last 10 years, has added the role of training new applicators to his duties. Jason enjoys being a mentor for new applicators and sharing his knowledge of the machine and expectations of a quality application. He is a great role model, teacher, and source of information for the next generation of applicators.

In addition to receiving the association award, Scott Bieck of Landmark Implement awarded Jason with a Hagie jacket.

Four years ago, the Nebraska Certified Crop Adviser (NeCCA) program began honoring those Certified Crop Advisers with longevity in the program with specially designed lapel pins. This year was no different with eighteen Nebraska CCAs becoming 25-year veterans in the program. They are Darren Barker, Mitch Brase, Keith Byerly, Kelly Clevenger, Timothy Dozier, Arlis Eitzmann, Troy Frank, William Nejezchleb, Steven Nelson, Timothy O’Brien, Randall Pierce, Joseph Potts, Ronald Rickert, Monte Roetman, Galen Samuelson, John Skalsky, Darren Sudbeck, and Michael Wilkens.

The Nebraska Agri-Business Association represents ag retailers, major manufacturers and distributors of fertilizer, crop protection, seed, equipment, and other ag inputs. Nebraska Agri-Business Association provides unified leadership and influence creating tangible economic and educational value for Nebraska’s crop production industry professionals.

The Nebraska Agri-Business Association is a trade association representing agricultural retailers, applicators, distributors and manufacturers of agriculture input products, supplying and servicing Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers. Our members produce, sell and provide custom application of fertilizer and crop protection chemicals.



Workshop series for veterans focuses on poultry farming

Military veterans interested in agriculture are invited to attend a series of on-farm and virtual workshops highlighting a poultry producer specializing in egg production.

This course is free for active military service members and military veterans.

Hosted by the Center for Rural Affairs, the 11-session series, “A Year in the Life of a Poultry Producer,” runs Feb. 22 to Aug. 26. The workshops are presented in English and will rotate between online classroom sessions and on-farm sessions with an online option.

“In our classroom sessions, participants will hear from experts and learn business and financial skills and resources applicable to any type of agricultural operation,” said Kirstin Bailey, senior project associate for the Center. “During the on-farm sessions, an experienced farmer will go through the ins and outs of poultry production, as they demonstrate knowledge of a particular enterprise on their farm.”

Session topics include obtaining proper equipment, maintaining adequate facilities, setting up grazing systems, working with a butcher, and more.

Farmer-leaders with experience in various types of agriculture (such as poultry, pork, beef, beekeeping) will be available to assist participants throughout the course’s online platform.

For more information or to register, contact Bailey at 402.870.2390 or kirstinb@cfra.org.

Participant stipends are available to cover approved expenses such as travel, meals, and child care. Individuals are welcome to attend with family members. For on-farm events, physical accommodations may be made upon request.

Find a detailed schedule, including dates and times of sessions, at cfra.org/events.



Nebraska Wheat Board Calls for Funding Proposals

The Nebraska Wheat Board issued its call for funding proposals for consideration for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Proposals must be submitted no later than 5:00 PM Central Time on Friday, February 17, 2023 and must be in the form of a proposal – not a contract. Proposals must specifically state the planned activity, goals and objectives relating to the mission of the Nebraska Wheat Board.

The Nebraska Wheat Board invests the excise tax levied at the point of first sale. Nebraska Wheat Board priorities include wheat production research, trait development in wheat, white wheat development, advancement of hybrid wheat, improvement of spring wheat varieties, nutrition education, and wheat promotion.

First reading of all proposals will be held in February, second reading will take place in June, along with funding announcements. All questions regarding the funding proposal process should be directed to the Nebraska Wheat Board office.



Holding the Line Against Mexico’s GMO Corn Decree: NCGA’s Capitol Hill Congressional Briefing

A major disruption to the market for U.S. corn is set to take effect in one year, as a decree by Mexico’s President would ban the import of GMO corn effective January 31, 2024.

Historically, Mexico is the number one market for U.S. corn, and so it should surprise no one that the National Corn Growers Association has been active in pushing back, with strong support from the Biden administration in Washington.

NCGA is urging the administration to hold the line and file a dispute settlement under the USMCA to hold Mexico accountable to their obligations under that trade agreement.

In order to build awareness of the issue in Congress, on January 31 NCGA held a well-attended briefing for Congressional staffers with an all-star panel of experts:
    Rep. Adrian Smith from Nebraska, chair of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade
    Acting Deputy Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Jason Hafemeister
    NCGA President Tom Haag
    Nebraska grower Andy Jobman

And the discussion was moderated by NCGA Vice President of Communications Neil Caskey.



USDA Settles Packers and Stockyards Act Case with Robert Lenz, d.b.a. Lenz Livestock

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reached a consent decision with Robert Lenz, doing business as Lenz Livestock (Lenz) of Carroll, Iowa, on Sept. 13, 2022, for alleged violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act.

An investigation by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) revealed that Lenz failed to pay timely for 118 head of livestock purchased for $98,368 between Jan. 19, 2022, and Feb. 1, 2022. Lenz’s payments were between 26 and 93 days late.

In addition, on Jan. 19, 2022, Lenz issued a check in payment for 30 head of livestock for $30,313, which was returned unpaid by the bank. The financial institution returned the check because Lenz did not have sufficient funds in the account.

Under the consent decision, Lenz agreed to cease and desist from failing to pay, when due, the full purchase price of livestock and issuing insufficient checks for his livestock purchases. Lenz is suspended as a registrant under the Act for two years. However, Lenz is permitted to engage in salaried employment by another registrant or packer properly and adequately bonded.

The P&S Act requires subject entities to issue the full payment for livestock by the close of the first business day following purchase and transfer of possession. Failure to timely pay for livestock purchases and failure to deliver livestock for which payment has been accepted are unfair trade practices and are violations of the P&S Act.

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries.



Naig Encourages Applications for the 2023 Century & Heritage Farm Program

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig encourages eligible Iowa farm owners to apply for the 2023 Century and Heritage Farm Program now through June 1.

The program was created by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation to recognize families who have owned their farms for 100 years and 150 years, respectively.

“Iowa’s multi-generational farm families are the backbone of our state and the Century and Heritage Farm Program recognizes their hard work, strength, resilience and perseverance,” said Secretary Naig. “Each year I look forward to recognizing these families, hearing their stories, and celebrating their legacies at the Iowa State Fair.”

To apply, download the application on the Department’s website at iowaagriculture.gov/century-and-heritage-farm-program. Please complete the application and return it to:
Century and Heritage Farm Program
Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
Wallace State Office Building
502 E. Ninth St.
Des Moines, IA 50319

You may also send a written request for an application to the address above, or contact Kelley Reece, coordinator of the Century and Heritage Farm Program, at 515-281-3645 or kelley.reece@iowaagriculture.gov.

To be included in the 2023 Century or Heritage Farm Program, completed applications must be received by the Department by 11:59 pm on June 1, 2023.

This year marks the 47th anniversary of the Century Farm Program, which started in 1976 as part of the Nation’s Bicentennial Celebration. To date, more than 20,000 farms from across the state have received this recognition.

This is the 17th anniversary of the Heritage Farm Program. More than 1,600 farms have been recognized since this program began in 2006. To search for previous Century and Heritage Farm recipients, visit centuryfarms.iowaagriculture.gov/. Photos from past recognition ceremonies are also available on the Department’s website.

The ceremonies recognizing the 2023 Century and Heritage Farm families will be held at the Iowa State Fair on Aug. 17 in the historic Livestock Pavilion.



An Assessment of January 1, 2023, USDA Cattle Report
Stephen R. Koontz, Dept of Ag and Resource Economics, Colorado State University

The USDA releases the Cattle report on the last day of January. This information is as of the first of the year. The report is the most thorough look at the inventory of cattle and calves in the country. This is the inventory base from which all marketing of beef for the coming years will be sourced. The January version of this twice per year report is the more comprehensive. Cattle producers in all 50 states are surveyed. And it is good to remember that this information is based on a survey. The USDA samples producers and then extrapolates the sample responses to the population of producers. The appropriateness depends on the representativeness of the sample and the sample response. In this context we see that several statistics from the prior year were revised. All cattle and calves and the calf crops from the January and July reports in 2022 were revised. The first slightly higher and the second slightly lower. Both changes were fractions of a percent, but exercise reinforces the idea of a sample versus the underlying population.
 
The inventory of all cattle and calves were estimated to be 89,274.1 thousand head on January 1, compared to 92,076.6 thousand head on the same date in 2022. This is a reduction of 3.0%. The states with the largest inventories are Texas, Nebraska, Kansas, California, and Oklahoma. Thirty-four states showed reductions in inventories, six showed essentially no change, and ten states showed increases in inventories. The nationwide drought is and has been impacting inventories and has been having the greatest impact on states with the largest numbers. Oklahoma showed a 11.5% decline, North and South Dakota showed 6.4% and 6.6% reductions. Iowa, Ohio, and Mississippi were all down 5.5% or slightly less. California, Arizona, and New Mexico were steady. And increases were only in Missouri, Hawaii, and states with more dairy animal numbers.

There is a difference between what is occurring in the beef herd and the dairy herd. Beef cows that have calved were down 3.6% from 29,983.1 to 28,917.9 thousand head. While dairy cows that have calved were up 0.3% from 9,377.1 to 9,402.5 thousand head. So in total all cows and heifers that have calved were down 2.6% from 39,360.1 to 38,320.4 thousand head. This is the sharpest drop in beef cow numbers and all cow and heifer numbers in over 20 years.

Cow numbers are down sharply and heifer numbers are more sharply. All heifers 500 pounds and over are down 3.7%. And within this inventory number, beef cow replacements are down 5.8% from 5,481.5 in 2022 to 5,163.7 thousand head on January 1 this year. Milk cow replacements are down 2.3% and other heifers are down 3.2%. Beef cows have been liquidated largely because of drought and forage costs while heifers have been placed on feed and sold into the beef production system.

Reflections on the calf crop reveal tightening, of course, and more substantial tightening of numbers in the second half of last year. The calf crop in the first half of 2022 was estimated to be down 1.6% while the smaller calf crop in the second half of the year was down 3.2%. And finally, feeder animal supplies available on January1 – these are animals under 500 pounds and animals over 500 not categorized as being herd replacements – are 25,266.5 thousand head and down from 25,990.2 on January 1, 2022. This is down 2.8%. This number was only tighter in 2014-15 and roughly as tight during 2012-13. It is reasonably clear that when cattle producers think about herd building or rebuilding it will be from starting conditions that are tighter than was the case in 2012-13.



Students to Celebrate Agriculture and Leadership Around the Country

This month, FFA members around the country will celebrate agriculture and FFA during National FFA Week.

Today, FFA provides the next generation of leaders who will change the world. As the nation’s top school-based youth leadership development organization, FFA helps young people meet new agricultural challenges by encouraging members to develop their unique talents and explore their interests in a broad range of career pathways. FFA members are our future leaders, food suppliers, innovators and more!

Whether through service projects or community gatherings, National FFA Week is a time for FFA members to raise awareness about the National FFA Organization’s role in developing future leaders and the importance of agricultural education.

National FFA Week always runs from Saturday to Saturday and encompasses Feb. 22, George Washington's birthday. This year, the week kicks off on Feb. 18 and culminates on Saturday, Feb. 25.

The National FFA Board of Directors designated the weeklong tradition, which began in 1948, to recognize Washington's legacy as an agriculturist and farmer. A group of young farmers founded FFA in 1928, and the organization has been influencing generations that agriculture is more than planting and harvesting — it involves science, business and more.

“National FFA Week is a meaningful week for members across our country as we celebrate the organization, share the message of positive youth development through FFA and promote agriculture,” said National FFA Advisor Dr. Travis Park. “During this week, FFA chapters across the country celebrate agriculture while thanking their supporters — their local alumni chapters, agriculture teachers, or local businesses. Today, FFA and agricultural education continue to play a key role in developing the next generation of leaders and those who will fill the ever-growing need in the talent pipeline across our food systems.”

National FFA Week is a time for FFA members to share agriculture with their fellow students and communities. During FFA Week, chapters also give back to their communities through various service projects.

The six national FFA officers will connect with chapters across the country throughout the week — delivering keynotes, greetings, workshops and more.

President Andrew Seibel will visit with FFA members in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Western Region Vice President Ryan Williamson will visit FFA members in Delaware and West Virginia. Eastern Region Vice President Gracie Murphy will visit with FFA members in Mississippi and Louisiana. Central Region Vice President Karstyn Cantrell will visit with FFA members in Alabama and Tennessee. Southern Region Vice President MacKenna Clifton will visit with FFA members in Indiana and Michigan. National FFA Secretary Jess Herr will visit with FFA members in Oregon and California.

The National FFA Organization is a school-based national youth leadership development organization of more than 850,000 student members as part of 8,995 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.



The Plant-based Lie That Needs to Die
National Milk Producers Federation

There it was, #5 on a New York Times list of “10 Nutrition Myths Experts Wish Would Die.”

“Plant Milk is healthier than dairy milk.”

“It’s just not true,” said Kathleen Merrigan, professor of sustainable food systems at Arizona State University and a deputy secretary of agriculture under President Barack Obama, in the article. But indeed, the myth persists, despite how plant-based beverages have much-lower protein, numerous additives of dubious value, and a lack of uniform quality that should give anyone pause.

It’s also not shocking the misinformation continues. Money talks, and the plant-based sector is well-funded, with plenty of media allies and a ready-made base of support in a vegan community that insists a diet that’s impossibly difficult to follow and prone to malnourishment should be adopted by everyone. It also comes down to the names of the products themselves. If (whatever substance of the moment) is put in front of the word “milk,” then a false impression of nutritional equivalence, if not superiority, is easy to create. If that weren’t the intention, the plant-based beverage peddlers wouldn’t be doing it.

The good news is, nutrition experts are seeing through it – hence endorsement of integrity in dairy labeling from the American Academy of Pediatrics and others. And consumers are seeing through it, which is why we’re seeing data like this, in which after years of gains, the plant-based tide is starting to recede.
But we still have the problem of the federal government -- specifically the U.S. Food and Drug Administration -- which often lags behind science and citizens.

Until the FDA enforces its own standards of identity for milk by getting dairy terms right – reserving them for the real thing to distinguish them from the nutritionally deficient concoctions that hide behind milk’s health halo – the lie of “healthy” plant-based “milk” is likely to persist. And as we’ve seen, that lie is proving difficult to eradicate.

For the sake of well-informed consumer choice, and better health and nutrition, it’s important that the government do its job to dispel the lie of plant-based beverages masquerading as “milk.” On that list, labeling integrity is #1.  



USDA’s Farm Service Agency Helps Farmers and Ranchers Tackle Challenges

Under the Biden-Harris administration, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has worked to assist distressed borrowers, improve land access for underserved producers and provide disaster assistance and relief for producers impacted by natural disasters. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) also gave producers and landowners tools to help with climate-smart land management and made great strides in supporting USDA’s priorities of improving equity in program delivery and helping producers rebound and recover after natural disasters, the pandemic, and other challenges in the past two years.

“Although we are always considering ways to improve our programs and looking for growth opportunities, I am extremely proud of the extra effort and ingenuity our employees have put forth over the past couple of years – exceptionally difficult years defined by an economic-crippling pandemic and catastrophic natural disasters – to ensure agricultural producers received the quality service they have come to expect and deserve from FSA,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux.  “For 2023, FSA remains committed to continually evaluating how we can deliver our programs in a manner that is meaningful to the farmers and ranchers we serve and demonstrates our ongoing dedication to improving customer service and enhancing equity in program delivery.”

Key highlights from the past two years include:
    In 2022, FSA provided nearly $800 million in assistance to distressed borrowers with direct and guaranteed loans to help cure delinquencies and resolve uncollectable farm loan debts. Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act provided $3.1 billion for USDA to deliver this relief for distressed borrowers and to expedite assistance for those whose agricultural operations are at financial risk. FSA is currently working with borrowers to address complex cases and help producers with cashflow challenges. In 2023, additional opportunities for financially distressed borrowers to receive payments will begin. FSA will start by contacting direct borrowers, or a guaranteed borrower’s lender, to validate payment amounts.

    The Increasing Land, Capital, and Market Access Program invests up to $300 million in funding to support projects that enabled underserved producers to access land, capital and markets. Land access is critical to the success of agriculture. Underserved producers have not received the amount of specialized technical support that would benefit the launch, growth, resilience and success of their agricultural enterprises. USDA accepted applications for the program through Nov. 18, 2022 and anticipates announcing selections in 2023.

    In 2022, USDA launched the Loan Assistance Tool to help farmers and ranchers better navigate the farm loan application process. FSA experiences a high rate of incomplete or withdrawn applications, particularly among underserved customers, due in part to a challenging and lengthy paper-based application process. This uniform application process helps to ensure all farm loan applicants receive equal support and have a consistent customer experience with FSA regardless of their individual circumstances. Access the Loan Assistance Tool at farmers.gov/farm-loan-assistance-tool.

    FSA administers several programs designed to help agricultural producers recover from the impacts of natural disasters including drought, winter storms, hurricanes and more. Over the past two years, FSA has paid more than $3.5 billion through these disaster programs and has made several policy enhancements to better meet the recovery needs of producers who have suffered significant production and physical losses on their operations.  FSA expanded the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program to provide program benefits to producers of fish raised for food and other aquaculture species as well as cover above normal expenses for transporting livestock to forage and grazing acres and to transport feed to livestock impacted by qualifying drought. FSA also updated the Livestock Indemnity Program payment rates to better reflect true market value of non-adult beef, beefalo, bison and dairy animals. In the wake of devastating tornadoes and derechos in 2021, FSA designed a new program to deliver direct assistance to producers who lost critical grain storage facilities and struggled to meet their on-farm storage capacity needs. USDA also just announced expanded program benefits and improvements to several conservation, livestock and noninsured crop assistance programs to ensure these programs are reaching all producers in need including underserved producer groups.   

    Building on the existing suite of USDA disaster assistance programs that help offset losses and manage risk incurred as a result of natural disaster events USDA rolled out the Emergency Relief Program (ERP) and Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP). In 2022, FSA implemented ERP Phase One, which delivered more than $7 billion in payments to commodity and specialty crop producers. FSA also delivered more than $600 million through ELRP to livestock producers who experienced losses to drought and wildfire in calendar year 2021.   USDA recently announced additional relief through ERP Phase 2 for producers who suffered a decrease in allowable gross revenue in 2020 or 2021 due to losses of eligible crops from a qualifying natural disaster event.  

    In 2022, FSA took steps to improve coverage through the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC), especially for small- and mid-sized dairies. This included offering a new Supplemental DMC (SDMC) program and updating its feed cost formula to reflect the actual costs dairy producers pay for high-quality alfalfa hay. For 2022, SDMC paid producers nearly $3 million.  DMC provided $76.6 million to dairy producers who had coverage in 2022, and the signup for 2023 closed on Jan. 31, 2023. In additional safety-net support, FSA provided more than $2.1 billion in critical support through the Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs to mitigate fluctuations in either revenue or prices for certain crops.

    FSA updated the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) to improve their environmental benefits while expanding the reach of the program. In 2021, FSA added a Climate-Smart Payment Incentive and higher payment rates for CRP as well as tweaked CREP to allow for added staffing capacity and to better include organizations including Tribes. Just this past year, FSA enrolled about 5.6 million acres into the CRP through its General, Continuous and Grassland signups in 2022. This surpassed the 3.9 million acres expiring this year. Grassland CRP had its largest signup in history, enrolling 3.1 million acres.

Producers can explore all FSA farm loan and disaster assistance options at www.farmers.gov or by contacting their local USDA Service Center.



APHIS Celebrates 2022 Accomplishments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is celebrating the Agency’s many successful efforts to protect American agriculture and natural resources over the past year.

“APHIS has worked hard this year to safeguard U.S. agriculture and natural resources.” said Marketing and Regulatory Programs Under Secretary Jenny Lester Moffitt. “Whether it was preparing for or responding to foreign animal disease outbreaks, providing funds to protect plant health, updating regulatory processes, or any of our other accomplishments, our work this past year has reflected the goals of protecting producers and ensuring consumers have access to safe, nutritious and affordable food.”

Some of the Agency’s major accomplishments this year include:

Responding to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
Since February 2022, APHIS has fought what has become the largest foreign animal disease outbreak in U.S. history—the detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in 47 States, affecting more than 57 million birds.  As an experienced emergency response agency, APHIS effectively worked with state partners to set up a national response aimed at quickly identifying new cases of HPAI and working to stop the spread of the virus.  The Agency worked to respond to the changing situation, including developing strategies to meet hiring and deployment needs for emergency responders, and streamlining various response processes including testing and surveillance.

Protecting Crops and Natural Resources from Invasive Pests and Diseases
APHIS allocated more than $70 million to support 372 projects under the Plant Protection Act’s Section 7721 program to strengthen the nation’s infrastructure for pest detection and surveillance, identification, and threat mitigation; to safeguard the nursery production system; and to respond to plant pest emergencies. Universities, states, federal agencies, nongovernmental organizations, nonprofits, and Tribal organizations are carrying out selected projects in 49 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. These projects include Asian giant hornet research and eradication efforts in Washington and other states; exotic fruit fly survey and detection in Florida and California; and forest pest detection tools, control methods development, or outreach in 19 states, including Arkansas, Indiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina. APHIS also set aside $15.5 million to rapidly respond to invasive pest emergencies.

Supporting Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Activities
In 2022, APHIS made $24.5 million in funds from the 2018 Farm Bill available for projects under the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program and the National Animal Health Laboratory Network. This funding is part of an overall strategy to help prevent animal pests and diseases from entering the United States and reduce the spread and impact of potential disease incursions through advance planning and preparedness. The funds will support cooperative or interagency agreements between APHIS and States, universities, livestock producer organizations, Tribal organizations, land-grant universities, and other eligible entities.  It will also support the nationally coordinated network and partnership of Federal, State and university-associated animal health laboratories.

APHIS invested an additional $30 million in the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank, which allows APHIS to stockpile animal vaccines and other related products.  This serves as an effective insurance policy in the extremely rare chance of an outbreak of certain high-consequence foreign animal diseases, like foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).

Enhancing Awareness of African Swine Fever Through the ‘Protect Our Pigs’ Campaign
APHIS launched new efforts to help prevent the introduction and spread of African swine fever (ASF) in the United States through an outreach and awareness campaign called “Protect Our Pigs.” The United States is one of the world's largest pork producers and the second largest exporter of pork globally. If this deadly, highly contagious, viral disease arrives here, it is estimated it could cost the nation $50 billion dollars over 10 years. Commercial pork producers, veterinarians, and pig owners are among the nation’s first line of defense against ASF. The Protect our Pigs campaign deployed a variety of outreach efforts to support these critical stakeholders, including downloadable fact sheets and posters, instructional videos, shareable social media graphics, and a new interactive biosecurity guide. To date, these efforts have appeared in people’s social media feeds over 38 million times and led to nearly 150,000 visits to the Protect our Pigs web page. APHIS will continue these efforts in 2023 to support our stakeholders and keep this deadly disease off our shores.

Hosting Second African Swine Fever Action Week
APHIS hosted its second African Swine Fever (ASF) Action Week from October 10-14, 2022. While ASF has never been detected in the United States, the 2021 detection in the Dominican Republic and Haiti was the closest to the U.S. in decades. APHIS partnered with industry and states to enhance already strong safeguards to protect U.S. swine from this costly disease. During ASF Action Week, APHIS hosted a Live Twitter Q&A with subject matter experts and a live webinar on the latest APHIS and industry prevention actions.  APHIS reached 8,000 stakeholders with detailed information on ASF detection and prevention via the Twitter Q&A and APHIS social media posts on ASF were viewed by more than 37,000 stakeholders.

Updating the Biotechnology Regulatory Process
When APHIS updated its biotechnology regulations in 2020, it included a new process to evaluate plants developed using genetic engineering for plant pest risk.  This process, known as regulatory status review, focuses on the properties of the plant rather than on its method of production and ensures the biotechnology regulations keep pace with the latest science and technological advances.  In 2022, APHIS completed seven regulatory status reviews – first on a new tomato variety followed by six other plant varieties.  This streamlined process allows APHIS to better focus Agency resources on the prevention of plant pest risk.

Protecting Animals and the Public from Rabies
APHIS continued its annual distribution of RABORAL V-RG®, an oral rabies vaccine (ORV) bait, in the eastern United States to prevent the spread of raccoon rabies into America’s heartland. In August, APHIS Wildlife Services and its operators began distributing ORV baits across rural areas by airplane and in suburban or urban areas by helicopter, vehicle and bait station. APHIS distributed baits in Maine, West Virginia, Massachusetts, Virginia, Georgia, and Alabama. Rabies is a serious public health concern. While rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, it also is 100% preventable and APHIS will continue its efforts to control it.

Finding New Solutions to Chronic Wasting Disease
In 2022, APHIS provided over $9 million in CWD funding to 27 States and 6 Tribes or Tribal organizations, continuing its support of chronic wasting disease (CWD) management.  They will use this funding to further develop and implement CWD management and response activities in wild and farmed cervids (e.g. deer, elk). CWD is an infectious, degenerative disease of cervids that causes brain cells to die, ultimately leading to the death of the affected animal. New tools and approaches will help our partners better manage wild and farmed cervids at risk for the disease.

Strategic Planning with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to Protect the Nation’s Agriculture, Trade, and Commerce
APHIS and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released the 2022 – 2026 Joint Agency Strategic Plan for their shared Agricultural Quarantine Inspection (AQI) program. The AQI program plays a critical role in protecting U.S. agriculture and the environment by preventing the introduction and spread of potentially devastating plant pests and animal and plant diseases. APHIS and CBP work together at the Nation’s borders and ports of entry to carry out AQI program activities to intercept and exclude any foreign agricultural pests that could affect U.S. agriculture, trade, and commerce. In this joint mission, the strategic plan will guide program activities and set the program’s focus for the next 5 years, driving planning and setting mission priorities.