Wednesday April 5 Ag News

 CONTINUED BELOW-AVERAGE PRECIPITATION REDUCES GROUNDWATER LEVELS

Groundwater levels have declined in most of Nebraska following multiple years of below-average precipitation, University of Nebraska–Lincoln scientists found in a new statewide analysis. About three-quarters of the 4,787 observation wells across the state experienced groundwater level declines during 2021-22.

The Conservation and Survey Division, the natural resource survey component of the School of Natural Resources, compiled the findings in its latest groundwater level report.

For most of the observation wells, the net change in groundwater level was less than 20 feet since predevelopment times — before the widespread use of groundwater for irrigation.

Nebraska still retains a relatively abundant share of the High Plains aquifer system, in contrast to the situation in areas such as western Kansas and northern Texas, where the depletion of the aquifer has been severe, with major negative consequences for local agriculture.

But the survey’s findings highlight the direct negative effects that prolonged below-average precipitation can have on groundwater levels. During the 2020-21 period, 96% of weather reporting stations in Nebraska (166 out of 172) reported below-average precipitation. During the 2021-22 period, 68% of the stations (122 of 179) reported precipitation levels below the 30-year average.

The below-average precipitation values, combined with increased need for irrigation water to maintain crop yields, resulted in groundwater-level declines of more than 10 feet in some parts of the state, university scientists found.

“Changes in groundwater levels in Nebraska are largely dependent on annual fluctuations in precipitation,” said Aaron Young, survey geologist with the School of Natural Resources. “The hotter and drier a growing season is, the less water is available for aquifer recharge, and more water is required for supplemental irrigation of crops, resulting in groundwater-level declines.”

In contrast, wetter years mean that less supplemental irrigation water is required and more water is available for aquifer recharge.

Nebraska’s recent groundwater-level declines are concerning, Young said, in that some wells may need to be drilled deeper if drought conditions persist.

Although Nebraska has, on average, not seen declines in groundwater levels like those seen in Kansas or Texas, the degree of groundwater level change in Nebraska since predevelopment has varied greatly among individual areas, ranging from increases of more than 120 feet to declines of about 130 feet. For most of the state, the net change in groundwater level since predevelopment times has been less than 20 feet.

Parts of Chase, Perkins, Dundy and Box Butte counties, in contrast, have experienced major, sustained declines in groundwater levels due to a combination of factors. Irrigation wells are notably dense in these counties, annual precipitation is comparatively low, and there is little or no surface-water recharge to groundwater there.

The Conservation and Survey Division report was authored by Young and University of Nebraska–Lincoln colleagues Mark Burbach, Susan Lackey, Matt Joeckel and Jeffrey Westrop.

A free PDF of the report can be downloaded at https://go.unl.edu/groundwater. Print copies can be purchased for $7 at the Nebraska Maps and More Store, 3310 Holdrege St. Phone orders are accepted at 402-472-3471.



WILL LAST YEAR’S DROUGHT LEAD TO SEVERE GRASSHOPPER OUTBREAKS?
– Samantha Daniel, NE Extension Educator

Based on last year’s drought conditions and 2022 adult grasshopper surveys, much of central and western Nebraska is projected to be moderate to high risk for grasshopper outbreaks this season. Does that mean severe grasshopper outbreaks in forages and rangeland will occur? Not necessarily.

Grasshoppers tend to thrive in dry, hot conditions and are most likely to cause damage in forage and rangeland in areas with less than 30 inches of annual rainfall. The western two-thirds of Nebraska fall into this precipitation category, so why aren’t grasshopper outbreaks a severe issue every year? Outbreaks can be severely limited by cool, wet spring weather conditions. Cool temperatures and more spring rainfall increases the time required for grasshoppers to mature which increases juvenile mortality. This in turn reduces defoliation and the number of eggs produced for the following year’s population.

If spring conditions turn out to be favorable for grasshopper development and potential subsequent outbreaks, there are measures producers can take to mitigate defoliation in forage and rangeland. Properly managing forages and rangeland according to accepted practices can mitigate the effects of grasshopper feeding and scouting when grasshoppers begin to hatch in May will ensure producers stay one step ahead of grasshopper populations.



PEN PAL PROJECT BOOSTS UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN RURAL, URBAN FFA MEMBERS

Whether worn in the country or city, the iconic blue and gold jackets of FFA chapters stand out — a symbol of a Nebraska-wide institution that impacts rural and urban areas.

Nebraska FFA members have been discussing that subject this school year through a Pen Pal letter exchange between rural and Omaha members. The process has helped the teens gain a better understanding of the state and its range of experiences.

Many of the Pen Pals met face to face recently on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s East Campus as part of the 2023 Nebraska FFA State Convention. Stacie Turnbull, state director of agricultural education with the Nebraska Department of Education, has been a key leader in coordinating the Pen Pal project with FFA chapters.

The project has provided “a great networking opportunity to see how other students around the state view agriculture and how they do different things in their ag classrooms and FFA chapters,” said Katelyn Shimic, a junior at Gering High School. “It’s a cool opportunity to learn from their experiences and how they benefit from ours.”

At one of the tables in a new collaboration space on East Campus, FFA members Erika Munguia and Carolina Thompson from Omaha Bryan High School and Megan Kindschuh and Lexie Eckhoff from Axtell High School chatted after weeks of exchanging letters.

The central benefit of the letter exchange has been “seeing the big differences between the urban agriculture versus the rural agriculture that we see back in our small town,” Kindschuh said.

Munguia lived in Lexington before moving to Omaha, so she has experience in rural and urban settings.

Omaha “is such a different environment,” she said. “You don't have a cornfield right across the street, or cows or anything like that. So, it was nice to be able to write to people who do have these experiences and who don't live in these really busy areas. We could see how their experiences differed from mine, and what they get to do versus what I get to do and how we both are learning typically the same things but in different ways. It's just cool to see.”

Encouraging these low-key, friendly conversations among rural and urban FFA members has great value, said Allison Claussen, ag educator and FFA adviser with Pender Public Schools.

“It’s a casual conversation you might not be able to have without this program,” she said.

The Omaha Bryan FFA chapter got the ball rolling on the Pen Pal project after the chapter’s members saw during last year’s convention how greatly their experiences in Omaha can differ from those in the state’s rural communities.

The Omaha Bryan chapter is one of the state’s largest. Since its creation in 2012, it’s gone from 60 members to about 200, said Taylor Wilton-Cooper, the school’s FFA co-adviser and instructor in urban agriculture, food and natural resources curriculum.

Omaha Bryan’s Urban Ag Academy has a range of activities to help FFA members learn about the variety of Nebraska agriculture. The students have had visits from representatives of the Nebraska Wheat Board, Nebraska Pork Producers and Midwest Dairy. Students have learned about food science and visited City Sprouts, a community garden.  

It may seem odd that Omaha Public Schools would have started an Urban Ag Academy at Omaha Bryan, but the creation of the program connects directly to key points that often arise in discussion of present-day agriculture. First, it benefits Nebraska and society as a whole when urban residents understand where food comes from. Second, modern agriculture needs a strong workforce pipeline that includes urban residents. The U.S. ag sector each year has about 141,800 job openings, but economists estimate that about 40% of those jobs go unfilled.

Filling job openings is important for direct farmland production but also for the wide range of additional career opportunities in modern agriculture. The Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication at Nebraska lists more than 300 such career options for students. Examples include food-science laboratory technician, agricultural equipment technician, water quality engineer, ag teacher, forester, ag economist, communications specialist and wholesale sales representative.

The Pen Pal project helps Omaha students see the notable variation in the state’s agriculture. Corn and soybean tower as key crops, it’s true, but that isn’t the whole story. Ag teacher Carrie Johns, whose FFA students at Gering High School participated in the Pen Pal project, noted that “our Panhandle gets lumped in with the rest of central and eastern Nebraska, as they think we're all corn, soybeans, cattle.” But, she said, “out here we're very diverse — potatoes, sunflowers, alfalfa, wheat, sugar beets, dry edible beans. We actually have a couple farmers growing mint. We have quite the variety of crops.”

That’s not all: “We irrigate differently, as well. We do have pivot irrigation, but we also have canal irrigation.”
 
Jacie Bonneau, a senior at Pender High School who participated in the Pen Pal project, said the letter exchanges help by enabling rural FFA members to explain that rural life is much more than stereotypes.

“We see people that aren't from rural Nebraska sometimes stereotyping agriculture about what they think it is, but it's a lot more,” she said. “It's not just the animals or the crops. There's more to it. Doing that Pen Pal really helps, so people don't stereotype. They actually see what agriculture is in a larger sense.”



 Vyhnalek retires from Nebraska Extension

Two weeks after Christmas in 2007, Allan Vyhnalek received a call from the Platte County Sheriff’s Office about the suspicious machine gun ammunition box that he left near the secured boundary of the hydroelectric power plant in Columbus the previous summer. It was deemed a threat and blasted open by shotgun attached to a state patrol robot on Christmas Day. The sheriff’s office sought an explanation.  
Vyhnalek, at the time an educator with Nebraska Extension in Platte County, begrudgingly explained that the box, which has been marked and placed with permission, was part of a 4-H geocaching program that taught students how to use compasses and electronic GPS devices to locate hidden stashes of knick-knacks like bouncy balls and pencils. In his next breath, he then offered to conduct his GPS training for the entire county sheriff’s department — a proposal he asked the deputy to pass along.

Vyhnalek will retire from Nebraska Extension on April 7 after spending the past six years as a statewide educator for farm and ranch transition and succession. Though the Platte County Sheriff never took up his training offer, the interaction demonstrated Vyhnalek’s unwavering passion for educating that has driven his entire career.  

That was kindled at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where Vyhnalek, who grew up on a farm in Saline County, earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agricultural education, with a stint in between teaching high school ag in Elgin.

“After I graduated with my master’s in 1980, I was really looking for an opportunity in extension, but nothing was available, so I caught on at NCTA in Curtis,” Vyhnalek said about the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in the southwestern Nebraska community.

He spent the next seven years there teaching animal science, which he enjoyed before moving on when the school was facing the threat of closure during the farm crisis. Still wanting to pursue his goal of working in extension, he was hired as a 4-H educator with Iowa State University Extension in 1987, eventually directing the 4-H program in Grundy County, Iowa.  

“The most important thing I think I did in Grundy County was help revitalize the fair board to be one that supports 4-H and the county fair, and we ended up with really nice things happening at the fairgrounds in terms of revitalizing buildings and overall support for the 4-H program.” he said.  

In March 2001, Vyhnalek and his wife, Mindy, made the move back to Nebraska when he accepted an agricultural educator position in the Platte County Extension office in Columbus.  

“I had several roles in Platte County, but I settled on farm management, teaching good farm lease practices and farm succession planning,” he said. “Those are the two things I think I made the most difference with.”

Vyhnalek’s knack for using his educational platform to make an impact across generations contributed to a positive and collaborative culture in the Platte County office, where success was celebrated among colleagues.  

Lisa Kaslon, currently the professional development coordinator with Nebraska Extension, worked with Vyhnalek in the Platte County office as a 4-H youth development educator. “Allan had always wanted to work for Nebraska Extension, so when he got the chance to come to Platte County, he was committed to making the most of it,” she said.

It was there that Vyhnalek began his work to become an “expert and focused” educator in farm and ranch succession, which eventually led him to his current role, Kaslon added.

Vyhnalek said that he has always tried to work on the most important issue that he could have an impact on. He realized that keeping rural communities alive was at the top of the list and helping people through the estate planning or succession processes was vital to that effort.

“You look at Nebraska and agriculture, you realize it’s a very aging population, so I thought about what I could do on the farm succession side, because that’s an aspect of rural development,” Vyhnalek said. “For every handful of farms in an area you lose, you risk losing one business on main street. There’s a real consequence.”

In 2017, Vyhnalek moved to Lincoln when Nebraska Extension was looking for an educator who could focus on farm succession issues on a statewide basis. He accepted a position in the Department of Agricultural Economics, where has been based since. During his succession programs for producers and industry stakeholders, he often stresses that much of what he talks about does not come from a textbook but from his own experiences and from talking with Nebraskans.

“I receive lots of comments about the number of stories I tell when teaching,” he said. “I’m not trying to bore anyone, but I use them to illustrate the points I make in the lessons. Without grounding in real life, educational bullet points on slides can ring hollow.”

Larry Van Tassell, a professor and former head of the Department of Agricultural Economics, has observed how well Vyhnalek’s methods resonate with people. He praised Vyhnalek’s use of storytelling to connect with audiences and said that it helps them to better understand the concepts at a level that inspires them to act.  

“Allan can connect with a new landowner or with the multi-generation farming family who wants to hand it down to the next generation. He knows the power of experience and emotion when teaching adults,” Van Tassell said.

Vyhnalek has continued to work on land management, leasing and farm bill education over the years, but his unique focus on succession has taught the lifelong educator a lot along the way.  

“The most gratifying thing about teaching succession is also the most frustrating thing – there is always something new to learn, no matter how much I think I know. My teaching constantly changes and I have to adapt,” he said. “Every family is different and needs different help, and different advice for their situation.”

Vyhnalek and his wife, Mindy, who retired from a career in extension several years ago, are looking forward to spending more time with their two children and grandchildren, as well as the freedom to travel more. The couple have already planned some trips shortly after his last day of work. He said that he won’t miss some parts of his job, like stacking chairs and hauling meeting materials across the state. But for someone who has spent his entire career as an educator, realizing his goal of working in extension, somethings will be more difficult to let go.  

“I really enjoy talking to people and doing my lessons, and thinking about how I can make people do better for themselves for their future,” he said. “And I’ll really miss so many people at the university who have been awesome to work with.”  

Vyhnalek’s passion for education has led him to affect the lives of everyone from elementary to high school students, beginning farmers or ranchers to retiring landowners, and many others. His lasting impact on agriculture in Nebraska and Nebraska Extension will be thanks to the many relationships built during his career, his ability to relate to almost anyone, his knack for distilling complicated information and his genuine respect for rural Nebraska and the wellbeing of its people.  

A retirement reception for Vyhnalek will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on April 7 in the Massengale Residential Center’s multipurpose room, 1710 Arbor Drive, on East Campus. It is open to everyone.  



Nebraska Soybean Board to Provide Matching Funds for Applications of Soy-Based Dust Control

The Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) is launching the DustLock™ Matching Funds Program to support the increased use of the soy-based product that improves dust control and road stabilization. The program will provide a funds match of up to $10,000 per location to those looking to improve road conditions with a cost-effective alternative to other permanent surfaces. NSB staff and DustLock™ will review matching funds requests, and selected product applications will take place during the summer of 2023.

For the DustLock™ Funds Matching Program, examples of potential application areas include, but are not limited to: fairgrounds, grain processing complexes, feed mixing areas, community development projects, service roads, construction sites, public gathering places, campgrounds and parking lots.

Ideas for the program began after August of 2022, when the Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) sponsored an application of DustLock™ to nearly three miles of roads surrounding the Husker Harvest Days site. This demonstration led to much attention and inquiries about the use of DustLock™ in various capacities throughout Nebraska.

“After the demonstration at Husker Harvest Days, we were almost overwhelmed with the response and attention to this product,” said Wesley Wach, NSB demand and utilization coordinator. “We are excited to partner with DustLock™ through this new program to bring dust control, increased road longevity and improved quality of life to people across the state of Nebraska.”

Formulated by Environmental Dust Control of the Midwest, DustLock™ works to not only keep dust down, but also eliminates mud and erosion of gravel. The product is a naturally occurring by-product of the soybean oil refining process and is chemical-free, 100% nontoxic and unharmful to humans, fish or wildlife. DustLock™ is also non-corrosive on equipment.

“Customers say the product has improved safety through better visibility and has caused roads to lose less gravel,” said Dan Feige of Environmental Dust Control of the Midwest. “It also has kept dust from blowing on facilities, crops, livestock, homes, and customers say they spend less on maintenance costs each year.”

DustLock™ penetrates into the bed of the material and 'bonds' to make a barrier that is naturally biodegradable. This means that DustLock™ stays where it is applied, ensuring that the surrounding ground and water are not contaminated. It works to keep the road in place and helps solve the problem of washboards, washouts and potholes. Only one application is needed and can last multiple years based on the amount of traffic, winter blading and frost conditions.

An application for the funds match can be found here. Submissions will be accepted until April 28, 2023.

To purchase the product for personal applications, contact (800) 797-0033. Individuals can also learn more online at dustlock.com.



Fischer Joins Colleagues to Introduce Bill Permanently Repealing the Death Tax

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) recently joined 40 of her colleagues in reintroducing legislation to permanently repeal the federal estate tax, more commonly known as the death tax. The Death Tax Repeal Act would end this purely punitive tax that has the potential to hurt family-run farms, ranches, and businesses as the result of the owner’s death. U.S. Senator John Thune (R-S.D.). introduced the legislation.

“It’s wrong to tax hardworking Americans twice – once when they earn their money, and again when they give it away. The death tax is unfair, and has a disproportionate impact on Nebraska’s small businesses and ag producers. Many Nebraskans have spent decades working to grow their businesses in the hope of passing them on to the next generation. I’m proud to join Senator Thune to introduce the Death Tax Repeal Act to finally end this misguided tax once and for all,” said Senator Fischer.

“No cattle producer should ever be forced to sell their family’s farm or ranch to pay a tax bill due to the death of a family member. Repealing the death tax is a commonsense way to keep the farm or ranch in the family. As a land-based, capital-intensive industry, most cattle producing families are asset-rich and cash-poor, with few options to pay off tax liabilities. It is unacceptable that some families are forced to sell off land, farm equipment, parts of the operation, or the entire ranch to pay the estate tax. We need a tax code that promotes the continuation of family-owned businesses instead of breaking them up,” said Todd Wilkinson, president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

Background:
Although the final version of the Tax Cuts of Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2017 did not repeal the death tax, the law effectively doubled the individual estate and gift tax exclusion to $10 million ($12.9 million in 2023 dollars) through 2025, which prevents more families and generationally-owned businesses from being affected by this tax. The increased exclusion expires at the end of 2025, which increases uncertainty and planning costs for family-owned businesses, farms, and ranches.

This legislation is supported by more than 150 members of the Family Business Coalition and 111 members of the Family Business Estate Tax Coalition, which includes the American Farm Bureau Federation, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the National Federation of Independent Business, the Associated General Contractors of America, the Policy and Taxation Group, the National Association of Home Builders, and the National Association of Manufacturers.

In addition to Sens. Fischer and Thune, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Lindsay 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.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).



Iowa Swine Day 2023: Addressing Key Issues Facing U.S. Pork Producers

The 12th annual Iowa Swine Day is scheduled for June 29th and will be held at the Scheman Building, Iowa State Center in Ames, Iowa. The event will feature several highly regarded speakers who will address various issues related to U.S. pork producers.

The morning plenary session will cover topics such as learned excellence, understanding the carbon market, genetic improvements in a sustainable food system, and animal agriculture's potential to save the planet. The afternoon program will include four topic tracks with a total of 16 presentations to choose from.

A pre-conference BBQ and social time will also be held at the Hansen Agricultural Student Learning Center on the evening of June 28th, 2023. This event, hosted by AB Vista, TechMix, and Lynch Livestock, is open to all conference attendees and will focus on student networking. More details regarding the event will be announced soon.



EPA Fines Bobalee Inc. in Iowa for Alleged Hazardous Waste Violations

Bobalee Inc. in Laurens, Iowa, will pay $26,534 in civil penalties to resolve alleged violations of the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the company, which manufactures welded hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, generated hazardous waste at its facility and failed to notify EPA of its status as a hazardous waste generator and failed to properly handle the hazardous waste.

“It is a violation of federal law to generate hazardous waste and fail to notify EPA or obtain the necessary permits,” said David Cozad, director of EPA Region 7’s Enforcement and Compliance Assurance Division. “EPA’s enforcement actions demonstrate our commitment to protect human health and the environment from potential releases of chemical waste.”

According to EPA, Bobalee Inc. generates paint waste that is classified as toxic and ignitable as part of its manufacturing process.

Upon notification to Bobalee Inc. of the alleged violations, the company took immediate steps to return to compliance.



CHS Reports Second Quarter Earnings
Second Quarter Net Income of $292.3 Million in Fiscal Year 2023 Reflects Strong Energy Market Conditions

CHS Inc., the nation's leading agribusiness cooperative, today released results for its second quarter ended Feb. 28, 2023. The company reported quarterly net income of $292.3 million compared to $219.0 million in the second quarter of fiscal year 2022. For the first six months of fiscal year 2023, the company reported net income of $1.1 billion and revenues of $24.1 billion compared to net income of $671.0 million and revenues of $21.2 billion recorded in the first half of fiscal year 2022.

Fiscal 2023 second quarter highlights include:
    Revenues of $11.3 billion compared to $10.3 billion in the second quarter of fiscal year 2022, a year-over-year increase of 9%.
    Strong refining margins and market conditions in our refined fuels business drove significantly improved earnings in our Energy segment.
    Decreased prices for agronomy products and ethanol contributed to lower earnings in our Ag segment.
    Our CF Nitrogen investment delivered solid earnings due to strong global demand for urea and UAN, although selling prices for those products have decreased.

"Strong global demand for commodities and improved market conditions for refined fuels led to increased earnings for the quarter, as well as the first half of the fiscal year," said Jay Debertin, president and CEO of CHS Inc. "The strength of our diversified portfolio offset margin pressures experienced within our Ag segment, particularly wholesale and retail agronomy products. Looking ahead, we will continue to invest on behalf of our owners in infrastructure, supply chain capabilities and innovative technology throughout our expansive global network to maximize value for our member cooperatives, farmer-owners and customers."

Energy
Pretax earnings of $264.8 million for the second quarter of fiscal year 2023 represent a $254.0 million increase versus the prior year period and reflect:
    Higher refining margins resulting from increased global demand, favorable pricing on heavy Canadian crude oil and improved market conditions for refined fuels
    Higher propane margins driven by global markets and price volatility
    Higher prices for renewable energy credits that partially offset higher margins

Ag
Pretax losses of $81.6 million represent a $136.7 million decrease in earnings versus historically strong earnings in the prior year period and reflect:
    Lower margins due to market-driven price decreases across most Ag segment categories, including wholesale and retail agronomy products and renewable fuels
    A reduction in oilseed processing margins due to the timing of the impact of mark-to-market adjustments

Nitrogen Production
Pretax earnings of $81.7 million represent a $72.5 million decrease versus the prior year period due to lower equity income from CF Nitrogen attributed to a decrease in urea and UAN selling prices.

Corporate and Other
Pretax earnings of $48.0 million represent a $37.5 million increase versus the prior year period and reflect increased interest income resulting from higher interest rates, as well as improved equity income from our Ventura Foods joint venture, which experienced more favorable market conditions for edible oils.

CHS Inc. (www.chsinc.com) creates connections to empower agriculture. As a leading global agribusiness and the largest farmer-owned cooperative in the United States, CHS serves customers in 65 countries and employs nearly 10,000 people worldwide. We provide critical crop inputs, market access and risk management services that help farmers feed the world. Our diversified agronomy, grains, foods and energy businesses recorded revenues of $47.8 billion in fiscal year 2022. We advance sustainability through our commitment to being stewards of the environment, building economic viability and strengthening community and employee well-being.



All Retail Fertilizer Prices End March 2023 Lower

All average retail fertilizer prices were down from last month in the fourth full week of March 2023, according to sellers surveyed by DTN. However, after weeks of prices for several fertilizers being considerably lower, only one fertilizer -- anhydrous -- was substantially less expensive. Once again, all eight of the major fertilizer prices are lower compared to last month. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Leading the way lower was anhydrous. The nitrogen fertilizer was 5% lower compared to last month and had an average price of $1,026 per ton. The remaining seven fertilizers were all just slightly lower compared to last month. DAP had an average price of $818 per ton, MAP $810/ton, potash $644/ton, urea $626/ton, 10-34-0 $741/ton, UAN28 $428/ton and UAN32 $513/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.68/lb.N, anhydrous $0.63/lb.N, UAN28 $0.76/lb.N and UAN32 $0.80/lb.N.

All fertilizers are now double digits lower compared to one year ago. 10-34-0 is 17% less expensive, DAP is 21% lower, MAP is 23% less expensive, potash is 26% lower, UAN32 is 28% less expensive, both anhydrous and UAN28 are 33% lower and urea is 39% less expensive compared to a year prior.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 3/31/2023

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending March 31, ethanol production was unchanged from the prior week at 1.003 million b/d, equivalent to 42.13 million gallons daily. The volume produced was equal to the same week last year but 7.0% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate edged down 0.2% to 1.004 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.39 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks fell 1.5% to 25.1 million barrels. Stocks were 3.0% lower than a year ago but 5.9% above the five-year average. Inventories declined across all regions except the Gulf Coast (PADD 3).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, rose 1.6% to 9.30 million b/d (142.49 bg annualized), the highest level since late December. Demand was 8.6% more than a year ago and 12.0% above the five-year average. Stocks of total motor gasoline fell an additional 0.7% to their lowest level for the week since 2014.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol were steady at 888,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.61 bg annualized. Net inputs were 3.5% above the same week last year and 9.3% more than the five-year average.

There were zero imports of ethanol recorded for the seventeenth consecutive week. (Weekly export data for ethanol is not reported simultaneously; the latest export data is as of February 2023.)



Biofuel and Farm Leaders Press White House for Immediate Action on E15

Biofuel and farm leaders today called on President Biden to get ahead of rising fuel costs by authorizing sales of E15 this summer. In a letter to the White House, six stakeholder groups noted that current conditions are analogous to those in place last summer, when President Biden waived outdated Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) restrictions on E15. The move saved drivers up to nearly a dollar per gallon at the pump in some areas, and an average of 23 cents per gallon according to the Minnesota Department of Commerce.  
 
“The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, now extending into its second year, continues to reverberate across global energy markets,” said the letter, whose signatories were Growth Energy, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), the National Sorghum Producers, the American Farm Bureau Federation, and the National Farmers Union. “At home, this conflict continues to cause fuel supply disruptions, high gasoline prices, and ongoing uncertainty for millions of Americans. To help remedy these disruptions, provide stability for American families, and support domestic energy and economic security, we urge the administration to authorize the summer sale of gasoline blended with up to 15 percent ethanol (E15).”

Advocates also outlined a range of “extreme and unusual” factors impacting the stability of U.S. fuel markets, including historically low domestic fuel inventories, record exports of U.S. fuel to allies overseas, and continued inflationary pressures on fuel consumers. Protecting summer access to E15 would help relieve pressure on U.S. fuel supplies, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions, lowering evaporative emissions, and supporting America’s farmers and rural economies, they argued.

“While a permanent solution that would allow E15 sales year-round remains an important necessity, we urge you to take action on a temporary, emergency RVP waiver as soon as possible to remedy current and expected supply challenges resulting from ongoing conflict in Ukraine,” concluded the letter.



February U.S. Exports of Ethanol and DDGS Remained Solid Despite Declines
Ann Lewis, Senior Analyst, Renewable Fuels Association

February U.S. ethanol exports pared back 12% to 104.0 million gallons (mg). Canada was our largest destination for the 23rd consecutive month, with 42.2 mg of U.S. ethanol crossing the border (primarily denatured), representing 41% of total U.S. exports despite an 11% decline from January. Other major customers were South Korea (10.3 mg, -29%), the United Kingdom (9.7 mg, -46%), Jamaica (6.3 mg, the largest volume in over five years), and the European Union (6.3 mg, -46%). Shipments increased to the Philippines (5.8 mg, up from zero), Nigeria (5.7 mg, also up from zero), Mexico (5.4 mg, +13%), and the United Arab Emirates (5.1 mg, up from minimal volumes). However, Brazil remained essentially absent from the market as it reimposed a 16% tariff on U.S. ethanol at the beginning of the month.

The U.S. did not log any meaningful imports of ethanol.

February U.S. exports of dried distillers grains (DDGS), the animal feed co-product generated by dry-mill ethanol plants, dipped 1% to 764,494 metric tons (mt) despite expanded sales among the largest U.S. markets. Mexico remained our top customer for the eighth consecutive month with an 11% increase to 170,970 mt (equivalent to 22% of February exports). Shipments increased to South Korea (118,976 mt, +7%), Thailand (55,054 mt, up six-fold to an 18-month high), and Vietnam (53,245 mt, +3%). Other large markets included Indonesia (48,147 mt), Ireland (47,499 mt), Canada (46,692 mt), and Turkey (40,873 mt).



NCBA Statement Correcting Internet Falsehoods About mRNA Vaccines in Cattle

Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) released a statement in regard to false information circulating on social media about the use of mRNA vaccines in cattle:

"There are no current mRNA vaccines licensed for use in beef cattle in the United States. Cattle farmers and ranchers do vaccinate cattle to treat and prevent many diseases, but presently none of these vaccines include mRNA technology."




Farmers Seek Comprehensive Reform to Federal Milk Pricing

The American Farm Bureau Federation told USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack today that requests to increase make allowances – which are used in part to calculate how much a processor pays for milk – fall short of fairly supporting dairy farmers. According to 2021 USDA milk cost of production estimates, dairy farmers on average, lose $6.72 per hundredweight of milk produced. The loss for dairy farms with less than 50 cows was even greater at $21.58 per hundredweight.

Two dairy processor associations requested a federal milk marketing order hearing to increase make allowances. While AFBF is not opposed to updating make allowances, the proposals to USDA do not address the wider need for changes to milk pricing regulations. For example, the requests call for the continued use of voluntary data to set make allowances. In a letter to Secretary Vilsack, AFBF President Zippy Duvall argued for mandatory reporting. The letter states, “Large efficient processors may decline to participate [if data is voluntarily collected], which would skew the cost survey results upward. This would increase the deduction to cover processors’ cost in the milk price formula, which would skew dairy farmers’ milk checks downward. Farm Bureau believes it is critical that any changes in the make allowance be based on mandatory audited cost and yield surveying, which would provide farmers the assurance that any make allowance change reflects true costs borne by processors.”

To fully address farmers’ needs, USDA should consider a wider range of improvements to milk markets including adjustments to the Class I and II skim milk price formulas such as, updates to the Class I and II differentials, and a return of the Class I base price formula to the “higher-of” the Class III or IV formula.

“Dairy farmers continue to face market challenges as part of the high cost, high risk age we live in,” President Duvall wrote. “Trust is critical to maintaining an efficient and resilient federal order system that promotes orderly marketing of milk to consumers across the country. The petitions we oppose here threaten to undercut trust between farmers who produce the milk and the processors who turn it into the dairy products we all know and love.”



National Sorghum Producers Opens 2023 Sorghum Yield Contest

National Sorghum Producers will now begin accepting entries for the 2023 National Sorghum Yield Contest. State and national winners are selected from contestants split into east and west regions for each division, which includes irrigated, dryland no-till, dryland tillage and one overall winner for food grade.

The entry deadline for the 2023 National Sorghum Yield Contest is November 15. A complete field of 10 or more continuous acres, planted in the sorghum seed variety named on the entry form, will be designated as the contest field. The contestants must harvest and report at least 1.5 contiguous acres. Harvest reports will now be made available to contest entrants beginning May 1, and all completed forms must be received at the NSP office or postmarked no later than November 25.

“This competition motivates farmers and seed companies to explore innovative genetics and techniques for enhancing sorghum yields,” NSP CEO Tim Lust said. “Despite the 2022 drought, we saw excellent top-end yields in the contest from growers nationwide. We look forward to expanding on that success in 2023, and we anticipate a high level of participation in the upcoming contest, resulting in new yield records being set.”

The goal of the National Sorghum Yield Contest is to increase grower yields, transfer knowledge between growers to enhance management and identify sorghum producers who excel in each state and throughout the country. In order to enroll, contestants must be a paid NSP member at the time of entry. More than one member of a family may enroll, but each member must have a separate membership. All entries will be reviewed and divisions will be placed off of yield only. National and state winners will be recognized at the 2024 Commodity Classic in Houston, Texas.

To find the entry form, 2023 yield contest rules and more information, interested contestants can visit www.sorghumgrowers.com/yield-contest/ or contact NSP Director of Operations Julie Barclay at 806-749-3478.

Tuesday April 4 Ag News

 EVALUATING ALFALFA PLANTS
– Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator

As temperatures begin to rise, don’t’ forget to take a bit of time to assess alfalfa stand health going into this year’s growing season. While much of the state had plenty of snow cover to help insulate plants from extreme temperatures, older stands or late harvested alfalfa still have a potential for winter kill.

Even before plants begin to green up, individual plant assessments can be done.  While assessment before green-up occurs may seem a bit preemptive, pre-scouting now can focus scouting efforts to problem areas later on when time becomes precious during spring planting.

    Dig up 4-5 random plants per 20 acres, being sure to get the crown and a good portion of the tap root (around 6 inches at least).  Split the root and crown open. A healthy plant will be white and firm while winter damaged taproots will be yellow to brown in color and stringy. Yield will begin to be impacted when damage is greater than 30% of the total root/crown area.

    Look for alive, in-tact basal buds at the crown of the plant.  Buds formed last fall will start growth sooner and boost first cutting yields.  A lack of basal buds doesn’t mean that the plant won’t recover, but first cuttings may be smaller.

    If plants have begun growth, look at where it is occurring on the crown.  Healthy plants will have growth fully throughout the crown while damaged plants will often have asymmetrical growth with more stems on one side than the other.

If more than 30% of the plants assessed have significant damage, yield for the upcoming year may be impacted. Options like interseeding perennial grasses, seeding a warm season forage crop after the first harvest, or terminating the stand may need to be considered.



PSC ISSUES IMPORTANT REMINDERS FOR GRAIN PRODUCERS AND DEALERS

The Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) is reminding grain producers and dealers of the importance of familiarizing themselves with Nebraska’s Grain laws when it comes to doing business with grain dealers.

It is of vital importance for a producer/seller to ensure they are working with a grain dealer that is licensed to do business in the state of Nebraska. If a producer sells grain to a grain dealer that is not licensed in Nebraska, the producer will have no protections under state law. A list of grain dealers licensed in Nebraska can be found on the Grain Department page of the PSC website.

“State Law requires grain dealers to hold a Nebraska license in order to do business with producers/sellers from our state,” said Commission Chair Dan Watermeier.  “The license means the grain dealer has posted a security bond with the PSC, providing protection for the producer/seller.”

Under the Nebraska Grain Dealer Act if a producer/seller wants to ensure their transactions with a grain dealer are covered by the grain dealer’s security posted with the PSC, they must demand payment within 15 days of completion of their contract with the dealer. Producers/sellers who choose not to demand payment within 15 days after completion of their contract will be unsecured creditors of that dealer and forfeit any protection from the grain dealer’s security.

Commissioner Watermeier said, “By knowing the law, working with only licensed grain dealers and demanding payment within the set timeframe producers/sellers can save themselves time and money should a grain dealer experience any issues.”

Information for producers/sellers, grain dealers and grain warehouses can be found on the Grain Department page of the PSC website. Questions can be emailed to psc.grain@nebraska.gov.  



New Product Announcement: Milk Bar Revolution Snap On Nipple

Sidney, Nebraska-based Agri-Plastics, a leader in innovative agricultural solutions, is proud to introduce the Milk Bar™ Revolution Snap On Nipple – a game-changing addition for dairy farms using bottle systems. This cutting-edge product has been designed to optimize calf performance while making life easier for farmers.

Using traditional fast-feeding nipples can lead to the calf being overwhelmed with milk. Thus the absorption rate is diminished, resulting in poor growth, nutritional deficiencies and overall health issues. However, with the Milk Bar™ Revolution Snap On Nipple, farmers can now control the flow of milk entering the calf through a unique, chambered 5-slit mouthpiece. Milk flow is controlled no matter regardless of bottle placement.

The Milk Bar Revolution Snap On Nipple features five slits positioned in a circular pattern to regulate the flow of milk, ensuring that calves drink at the right speed and produce lots of saliva, aiding in the digestion of the milk and rumen development. The nipple's unique design also minimizes cross sucking and diarrhea, ultimately leading to healthier, more content calves.

Its natural rubber formulation allows for a secure and easy snap-on attachment to bottles, which makes it effortless for farmers to use. Secure nipple-seating to the bottle ensures that you can carry the bottles by the nipples worry-free.

The Milk Bar Revolution Snap On Nipple is available through Agri-Plastics and their Dealer Network in North America. This innovative product is a must-have for farms using bottle systems as it is easy to use and delivers an extraordinary improvement in calf performance. Because of the high-quality “natural” rubber compound, we suggest using a NON-chlorinated alkaline detergent to ensure optimum bio security.

With patent applications in New Zealand and internationally pending, the Milk Bar™ Revolution Snap On Nipple revolutionizes the way farmers use bottle systems. For more information, please visit Agri-Plastics' website or contact them at 1-888-231-3575 or info@agri-plastics.net.

The Milk Bar Revolution Snap On Nipple is available for immediate purchase online at: https://calfhutchshop.com/product/milk-bar-revolution-snap-on-nipple/ Part number: AGRI-MBREV. For orders of 100 or more, please call for a volume discount.

About Agri-Plastics
The VanBuuren family founded Agri-Plastics in 1995. These third-generation dairymen know first-hand the difficulties experienced on a dairy farm. They began experimenting with hutch designs to provide healthier, more comfortable environments for calves. Over the years, Agri-Plastics has listened and learned from many other producers, and they have used that knowledge to create game-changing innovations that have since become industry standards.    



TEAM LOOKS TO INCREASE RESILIENCE OF FOOD SYSTEMS TO CLIMATE SHOCKS

Two researchers affiliated with the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln are part of a multidisciplinary, multi-institutional team that has received significant funding from the National Science Foundation for a project predicting the effect of climate extremes on the food system. Understanding the vulnerability of food systems to climate shocks like drought is an important step to increasing the resilience of communities and agricultural operations to those shocks.

The team is one of 16 selected for Phase 1 of the NSF Convergence Accelerator program’s Track J: Food and Nutrition Security, an $11 million investment by the NSF into applied research and technology development to advance solutions aligned to this focus.

Led by Kathy Baylis at the University of California, Santa Barbara, other team members come from Baylor University, the University of Illinois, Tufts University and the University of Texas. The researchers will work with a range of nongovernmental organizations and nonprofit organizations on the ground in both the United States and Kenya.

Mike Hayes, a professor in the School of Natural Resources at Nebraska and former director of the National Drought Mitigation Center, is one of the researchers involved.

“This project allows us to come together and combine the strengths that all the people involved have,” Hayes said of the team’s diverse disciplinary makeup, with members coming from economics, engineering, geography, hydrology and sociology.

Hayes’ expertise is in climate science. His role in the project, he said, is to apply new developments in climate science to the challenge of food security and translate the vast amount of climate data that’s out there into something useful and usable for decision-makers. “They’re really emphasizing the broader impacts, rather than just basic research,” he said of the accelerator program’s focus on applied solutions.

“All of the projects are challenged to be user-inspired, user-informed,” said Tonya Haigh, research assistant professor at Nebraska who is also involved with the project. Haigh, who leads the drought center’s social science program, is interested in user interaction. Her role in the project is to better understand what new information on-the-ground partners — whether that’s a food bank, a farm or an international agency — need to make more informed decisions about food production and distribution.

Beyond disciplinary expertise, the National Drought Mitigation Center researchers are contributing to the project their deep well of connections with agricultural stakeholders and information users across the Southern Plains and Southwest. Haigh and Hayes, for example, both point to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Regional Climate Hubs as a potential project collaborator with which the team might connect. The Climate Hubs are a longtime partner of the drought center and work right at that intersection of science and agricultural decision-making on which this project is focused.

Using the drought center’s existing relationships in the region, the project team can begin to test how climate outlooks can inform agricultural and food decision-making. From there, they can take those strategies to Kenya where other project team members have their own longstanding relationships.

In the first phase of the accelerator program, the team will develop an initial proof of concept and engage with the other 15 teams in hands-on learning around human-centered design, use-inspired research and communications. At the end of Phase 1 in August, each team will submit a formal proposal to try to secure $5 million of additional support to further develop their solutions in Phase 2.

“New technologies could play an important role in ensuring that individuals have access to food and water in the coming decades,” said Erwin Gianchandani, NSF assistant director for technology, innovation and partnerships, about the new accelerator program initiative. “Through transdisciplinary, use-inspired and translational research, the projects in which we are investing today have the potential to help the most vulnerable Americans, not to mention billions of people worldwide.”



Scoular and Boys Town partner on mental health resources for children of employees, community youth

A unique partnership between global agribusiness Scoular and nationally recognized Boys Town will provide mental health care services to both Scoular families and to youth in the Omaha community. 

Recognizing the growing need for timely access to mental health care, the Scoular Foundation has provided $250,000 to Boys Town to offset the administrative costs of providing increased mental health care by a licensed psychologist dedicated to the new partnership. The psychologist will serve the children of Scoular employees as well as prioritize services to children in the North and South Omaha communities, and those enrolled in the Boys Town LIFT Together program. LIFT Together is a prevention initiative that provides adolescents living in North and South Omaha with resources to improve school success and family stability.

The Scoular donation is providing this funding to offset the skyrocketing costs of these services and the difficulty hiring mental health professionals. The generous donation will help attract exceptional candidates to the job.  

In addition, Scoular CEO Paul Maass said that Scoular is committed to expanding the concept by providing an additional $250,000 to another agency for mental health services. 

The donation is intended to help address what experts are calling an unprecedented mental health crisis, driven significantly by a lack of access to trained providers. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, one in five Nebraskans experienced a mental health challenge in any given year. Over the past two years, the number has increased to one in three.  

“We have heard countless stories from community members and mental health advocates that it can take months to obtain an appointment to see a mental health care provider,” Maass said. “We want to help solve this problem by providing a more timely path to care and healing, for both our employees’ children and for children in the community.”   

A shortage of mental health care providers has intensified the challenge, which the Scoular donation is addressing by its size and scope. 

 “The need for mental and behavioral health services has increased dramatically over the past several years and the availability of services has not kept pace,” said Dr. Patrick Friman, Vice President of Behavioral Health at Boys Town. “Stepping up to help address this growing need, the Scoular Foundation has committed to partner with Boys Town by supplying two years of innovative foundational funding for a specially trained adolescent therapist.”  

 Scoular employs 160 people at its global headquarters in Omaha and 1,400 worldwide. Its foundation is a private philanthropic organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of human life in the communities where Scoular employees work and live. 



USDA Appoints New Members to Food Safety Advisory Committee

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is announcing the appointment of 15 new members and five returning members to the National Advisory Committee on Meat and Poultry Inspection (NACMPI).

Members of the committee are chosen based on their expertise in meat and poultry safety, public health, and other Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) policies.

“We are proud to announce the new committee members to NACMPI and grateful for their commitment to support food safety and public health,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “These members’ diverse expertise and advice will help USDA as we advance our important food safety mission.”

NACMPI consists of 20 members and provides advice and recommendations to the Secretary of Agriculture on food safety concerns and other matters affecting inspection program activities, including food safety policies that will contribute to USDA’s regulatory policy development. NACMPI has made important contributions to a broad range of critical food safety issues. The committee reports provide current information and advice to FSIS and serve as a foundation for regulations and programs aimed at reducing foodborne disease and enhancing public health.

The newly appointed NACMPI members to serve a two-year term are:
Dr. Mary Anne Amalaradjou – University of Connecticut, Tolland, Conn.
Sharon Birkett – OSI Group, LLC, Bolingbrook, Ill.
Dr. Dianna Viola Bourassa – Auburn University, Auburn, Ala.
Dr. Byron D. Chaves – University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Neb.
Dr. Vanessa Coffman – Alliance to Stop Foodborne Illness, Chicago, Ill.
Dr. James Richard Dillon – State of Texas, Austin, Texas
Scott Lee Filbrandt – Bob’s Processing Inc., South Haven, Mich.
Dr. James Harbey Hollis – South Carolina Meat-Poultry Inspection Department, Columbus, S.C.
James Kincheloe – Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, D.C.
Dr. Paul Steven Kuber – Washington State University, Spokane, Wash.
Anastacia Marie Larkin – Cougle Commission Company, Schererville, Ind.
Ali Mohseni-Motlagh – American Foods Group LLC, Newton Square, Pa.
Patrick Robinette – Micro Summit Processors, Pinetops, N.C.
Dr. James Rogers – Food Safety Research and Testing, Consumer Reports, Bowie, Md.
Desiree Claire Ann Wineland – American Butchers LLC / Beyond the Butchers, Cambridge, Neb.

The returning NACMPI members are:
William Battle – Magnolia Processing Inc. DBA Pride of The Pond, Tunica, Miss.
Casey Lynn Gallimore – North American Meat Institute, Shawnee, Kan.
Dr. Joseph Harris – Southwest Meat Association, Franklin, Texas
Teresa Schwartz – Retired Law Professor, Washington, D.C.
Dr. Byron Williams – Mississippi State University, Brandon, Miss.

FSIS will announce an upcoming committee meeting and topics when more information is available, which will be posted on the FSIS Events & Meetings page and published in a future Constituent Update.



Iowa Pork Producers and Iowa Cubs looking for the state’s best backyard barbecuers
    
The Iowa Pork Producers Association is partnering with the Iowa Cubs and Cactus Cares to host the inaugural BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark. The event will feature a Backyard BBQ Competition, with proceeds benefiting local food pantries. Amateur grill masters from across Iowa are invited to showcase their skills cooking high quality Iowa pork. More than $10,000 in cash prizes are available. The event will take place on Saturday, July 15, at Principal Park in Des Moines and is open to the public.

“We take great pride in promoting delicious Iowa pork and are excited to work with the Iowa Cubs and Cactus Cares to put together this fun, charitable event to see who is the best backyard barbecuer in Iowa,” said Trish Cook, president of the Iowa Pork Producers Association. “We all know an Iowan who is handy with the grill. This is their chance to step up to the plate, compete for some great prizes, and help us fill Iowa’s food pantries with high quality pork.”

The entry fee for competitors is $150, and the contest is limited to 30 participants. Judging will be based on the Iowa Barbeque Society’s scoring system in three categories: pork belly, pork ribs, and pork butts. All the meat for the competition will be provided by the Iowa Pork Producers Association. A portion of the entry fee will be used to provide pork to Iowa food pantries.

Tickets to the BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark will go on sale to the general public soon. Attendees will be able to sample delicious Iowa pork, beer from Iowa’s finest local breweries, and attend a Pork BBQ Bootcamp to learn the best methods for cooking their own top-notch barbecue. Music, food vendors and other entertainment will be provided.

“Cactus Cares is pleased to partner with the Iowa Cubs and the Iowa Pork Producers Association on the 2023 BBQ and Brew at the Ballpark,” said Rod Leman, development coordinator of Cactus Cares. “This event is a great opportunity for the public to sample pork BBQ from Iowa BBQ competition teams, while raising money to provide pork protein to food insecure Iowans.”

Cactus Cares is a non-profit organization that supports local food pantries.

To register to compete in the BBQ & Brew Backyard BBQ Competition and get more information, click on this link https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MTc4NzMw or visit IowaPork.org.



Corn Grower Leaders to EPA: Maintaining Consumer Access to E15 Increases Fuel Supply

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency should use its authority under the Clean Air Act to provide consumers with continued access to low-cost, low-emission E15 during the summer months, according to a letter sent today from corn grower leaders to EPA administrator Michael S. Regan.

The president of the National Corn Growers Association, joined by leaders from 18 state corn grower groups, signed the letter, which called on EPA to replicate its actions from last year and ensure uninterrupted access to E15 through the summer.

“At a time when fuel supplies remain constrained and prices remain high, consumers and retailers need all fuel choices available, especially as seasonal demand increases during the summer,” the farmer leaders stated. “Fuel market conditions that warranted EPA’s actions last summer are expected to continue this summer, and Russia’s war in Ukraine continues to disrupt global energy markets.”

EPA approved E15, or 15 percent ethanol blends, in 2011 for use in all 2001 and newer vehicles, which account for more than 96 percent of vehicles on the road today. Retailers have increased availability of E15, often marketed as Unleaded 88, to offer consumers choice and lower fuel costs, as well as increase the fuel supply. E15 has been sold year-round for the past four years, but outdated regulatory barriers continue to hinder permanent full-market access to E15.

NCGA and state corn grower associations reminded EPA officials that access to higher blends of ethanol can help keep prices down at the pump. The corn grower leaders pointed to warning signs, such as OPEC’s announcement of a 1.16 million barrels per day output reduction beginning in May, as reason the Biden administration should do everything possible to increase the domestic fuel supply to help keep prices down.

“With ethanol currently priced around 50 cents less per gallon than unblended gasoline at wholesale, drivers are continuing to save up to 15 cents or more per gallon,” the growers stated. “As the number of retailers offering drivers this low-cost, low-emission choice increases, the economic benefits also expand.”

Finally, the leaders noted that, in addition to increasing the fuel supply and lowering prices for drivers, higher ethanol blends like E15 reduce emissions.

“Ethanol results in nearly 50 percent fewer GHG emissions than gasoline, so Increasing ethanol blending from 10 to 15 percent further cuts GHG emissions,” they said. “Blending more ethanol to make E15 displaces the most toxic aromatic hydrocarbon components in gasoline, reducing exhaust emissions for cleaner air.”

The grower leaders urged EPA to act on their request in the near future to provide market certainty.



RFA Ad Campaign Calls on Biden Administration to Allow Lower-Cost E15 This Summer
    
With the summer driving season less than two months away and fuel prices again on the rise, the Renewable Fuels Association stepped up its campaign calling for quick action by the White House to ensure the lower-cost E15 gasoline blend is available for American drivers this summer.

The association this week kicked off an advertising campaign and call-to-action targeting ethanol supporters across the Midwest, as well as policymakers and insiders in our nation’s capital. In addition to radio spots running in D.C. and Midwest markets, RFA is also running print ads in several Midwest states and digital ads across multiple geographies.

“Our message to the Biden administration is simple: Unless the White House acts quickly, American drivers will lose access to the lowest-cost, lowest-carbon fuel at the pump on June 1,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “ As we saw last summer, allowing year-round sales of E15 is an easy step the administration can take to immediately reduce gas prices for consumers. With OPEC announcing another round of production cuts and oil prices on the rise again, American families need relief at the pump and they want E15 as an option throughout the summer and every day of the year.”

Cooper pointed out that a Morning Consult poll conducted late last month found strong voter support for year-round E15 sales. 70 percent of poll respondents support increasing the availability of E15 to help lower fuel prices and support energy independence, while 62 percent support recently introduced bipartisan legislation that would allow the lower-carbon E15 blend to be sold year-round nationwide.

Last year, allowing summertime sales of E15 saved American drivers $57 million at the pump between June 1 and September 15, an RFA analysis shows. And a study by economists at UC Berkeley and elsewhere released earlier this year shows that adding low-cost ethanol to the nation’s gasoline supply improves energy security and saves the average American household more than $750 per year.



DMC Margin Posts Another Sizeable Drop in February

The Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program will pay $3.31/cwt for $9.50/cwt coverage in February, based on a margin of $6.19/cwt that month. This was $4.70/cwt less than the margin last November. A milk price drop of $1.50/cwt from a month earlier and a $0.25/cwt rise in the DMC feed cost formula combined to lower the February margin by $1.75/cwt from its level in January.

Available forecasts currently indicate that the monthly DMC margins are close to bottoming out for the year, at around $6.00/cwt in a month or two, followed by a slow rise that will not likely top $9.50/cwt until the fourth quarter. This year will return many times the cost of this very affordable means of managing margin risk.



March CWT-Assisted Export Sales Total 2.5 Million Pounds

CWT member cooperatives secured 31 contracts in March, adding 1.8 million pounds of American-type cheeses, 168,000 pounds of butter, and 522,000 pounds of cream cheese to CWT-assisted sales in 2023. In milk equivalent, this is equal to 24.1 million pounds of milk on a milkfat basis. These products will go to customers in Asia, Central America, the Caribbean and Middle East-North Africa, and will be shipped from March through September 2023.

CWT-assisted 2023 dairy product sales contracts year-to-date total 12.6 million pounds of American-type cheese, 550,000 pounds of butter, 2.5 million pounds of cream cheese and 17.8 million pounds of whole milk powder. This brings the total milk equivalent for the year to 278.3 million pounds on a milkfat basis. Read more.



Wholesale Beef Prices and Cattle Prices
David P. Anderson, Extension Economist, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

While fed cattle prices have jumped again, hitting $170 per cwt in some markets for the last week of March, wholesale beef prices have not increased along with cattle prices. The Choice beef cutout averaged $280.51 per cwt last week, up about $14 per cwt compared to the same time last year. The cutout has declined about $8 per cwt over the last 5 weeks.

Wholesale prices for a few cuts reveal some interesting ups and downs. Ribeyes, strip loins, and full tenderloin prices have all declined over the last month. Boneless ribeyes averaged $9.83 per pound last week after hitting $10.69 earlier in the month. Ribeyes have often hit a seasonal peak in recent years around the Memorial Day holiday as a grilling feature. While a little early for that peak, tight supplies in the first quarter of the year probably contributed to some higher prices. Strip loins have fallen back to $7.57 per pound, about equal to last year, after reaching $8.77 a few weeks ago. The peak in strips is also a little earlier than usual and likely due to tighter supplies as fewer fed cattle go to market.

Tighter supplies of fed cattle and the sharp decline in beef cows going to slaughter have contributed to rapidly escalating wholesale boneless beef prices. Ninety percent lean boneless beef has increased steadily this year from $2.45 per pound in January to $2.74 per pound last week. That is only about 9 cents per pound lower than last year at this time. Large beef cow slaughter kept lean boneless beef prices declining through most of 2022. That is likely to be reversed as beef cow slaughter has sharply declined so far this year. Weekly slaughter in mid-March was 61,000 head compared to 75,000 head the same week last year. That was also the smallest non-holiday weekly beef cow slaughter since April 2021. Fifty percent lean boneless beef prices hit $1.44 per pound last week as fed cattle beef production tightened.

Falling wholesale steak cut prices and rising wholesale boneless beef might suggest some changes in consumer purchases to come. USDA weekly beef featuring data indicated 69 percent of surveyed grocery stores running some kind of feature last week compared to about 62 percent the same week last year.



Vytelle Closes $20MM in Series B Funding to Accelerate Genetic Progress in Cattle

Vytelle, a precision livestock company, has raised $20MM in Series B funding to accelerate genetic progress in cattle. With this new investment, Vytelle will continue to expand its global operations, while delivering the most accessible, reliable, and predictable reproductive technology available to customers today.

The investment was led by Forage Capital Partners, a Calgary based growth equity fund that invests across the entire food and agriculture value chain. New investor, Mountain Group Partners, joins current investors, Grosvenor Food and Ag Tech, Open Prairie, Fulcrum Global Capital, Serra Ventures, and KC Rise to complete the round.   

Forage Capital Partner, Jim Taylor said, "Vytelle has proven their ability to scale and deliver consistent results for the benefit of cattle producers aiming to accelerate genetic progress around the world. We are impressed with Vytelle’s track record of growth and delivery and are excited about what the future will bring."

Vytelle's integrated technology platform combines Vytelle ADVANCE, a breakthrough in vitro fertilization (IVF) technology, with Vytelle SENSE, an animal performance data capture system, and Vytelle INSIGHT, an artificial intelligence based genetic analytics engine.  

As the fastest growing advanced reproduction company, Vytelle is easily accessible to more than 50% of the US cow herd. Combining this footprint, with Vytelle’s curation of the world’s largest multibreed efficiency database, provides the infrastructure to impact bovine genetic progress rapidly. Progressive cattle producers can use the technology to multiply the impact of elite livestock productivity and profitability, sustainably delivering more protein with fewer inputs.  

"We are delighted to have secured this new investment; this is indicative of strong market interest in our products and services. Our mission is clear, and we are grateful for the support of our investors who join us on our journey to ensure meat and milk are viable food choices for future generations." said Kerryann Kocher, CEO of Vytelle.  

Monday April 3 Crop Progress & Ag News

 NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending April 2, 2023, there were 4.6 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 20% very short, 36% short, 39% adequate, and 5% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 37% very short, 41% short, 22% adequate, and 0% surplus.

Field Crops Report:
Winter wheat condition rated 8% very poor, 30% poor, 40% fair, 19% good, and 3% excellent.

Oats planted was 8%, near 12% last year and 9% for the five-year average.

Data for this news release were provided at the county level by USDA Farm Service Agency,
UNL Extension Service, and other reporters across the State.



IOWA CROP PROGRESS REPORT

Colder than normal temperatures for the week left Iowa farmers with 1.6 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending April 2, 2023, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Parts of the State still reported frost in the topsoil, while select counties in southern and eastern Iowa experienced hail and tornadoes. Although minimal fieldwork occurred over the last week, some producers were able to apply anhydrous, manure, and dry fertilizer. A few instances of oat seeding were reported.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 2 percent very short, 15 percent short, 76 percent adequate and 7 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 6 percent very short, 25 percent short, 64 percent adequate and 5 percent surplus.

Feedlots were drying out and calving continued. Overall livestock were faring well, although there were reports of livestock injuries from the severe weather in isolated areas.



First USDA Crop Progress Report of the Season

In its first weekly national Crop Progress report of 2023 released on Monday, NASS estimated U.S. winter wheat condition at just 28% good to excellent, below the previous decade-plus low of 30% last year at this time. And with dry, windy conditions expected in the region the rest of this week, the crop appears unlikely to see much relief anytime soon.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Crop condition: Nationwide, winter wheat was rated 28% good to excellent, 2 percentage points below last year's rating at this time of 30%. Top winter-wheat producer Kansas' crop was rated just 16% good to excellent with 57% rated very poor to poor. Colorado winter wheat was rated 27% good to excellent and 33% very poor to poor. Oklahoma's and Texas' crops were rated at 26% and 18% good to excellent, and 40% and 47% very poor to poor, respectively.

-- Crop development: 6% of winter wheat was headed nationwide as of Sunday. That's 2 percentage points ahead of last year's 4% and 4 percentage points ahead of the five-year average of 2%. Texas' winter wheat was 29% headed, ahead of the average of 20%.

CORN
-- Planting progress: 2% nationwide as of Sunday, May 2, equal to both last year and the five-year average. Texas was the furthest ahead with 57% of its intended corn acres planted, just ahead of the state average of 54%.



2023-2024 Nebraska State FFA Officer Team Announced
 
Seven FFA members were announced to the 2023-2024 Nebraska State Officer Team at the final
session of the 95th Nebraska FFA Convention. The 2023-2024 Nebraska State Officers are:
State President - Thomas Perrin, Ogallala FFA Chapter
State Secretary - Alex Boudreau, Minden FFA Chapter
State Vice President - Keetyn Valentine, David City FFA Chapter
State Vice President - Paige Bunn, North Bend FFA Chapter
State Vice President - Braydon Binger, Hay Springs FFA Chapter
State Vice President - Abby Hodges, Johnson-Brock FFA Chapter
State Vice President - Bethany Nichols, Bridgeport FFA Chapter

The new state officer team will spend the next year traveling across Nebraska, different parts of the
country, and even internationally to promote the agriculture industry, agriculture education, and
FFA. They will get to host leadership training for FFA members, assist with contests, visit FFA
Chapters, go on industry tours, and much more.



NEBRASKA FARM INCOME PROJECTED TO RISE AFTER FALLING IN 2022

Net farm income in Nebraska for 2022 is projected to have fallen to $7.2 billion before rising modestly to $7.3 billion in 2023, according to a report produced by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Center for Agricultural Profitability and the University of Missouri’s Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center.

Drought impacts across the state contributed to a reduction in projected net farm income in Nebraska when compared to a forecast produced last fall, before the full extent of drought losses had been realized.

According to Brad Lubben, extension policy specialist with the Center for Agricultural Profitability and a co-author of the report, Nebraska’s ag sector has taken a different path than U.S. agriculture since 2021.

“After record farm income in 2021, U.S. farm income projections point to an even higher record for 2022 before falling back in 2023,” Lubben said. “Nebraska, on the other hand, took the fall in 2022 due to drought losses and thus may hold relatively steady for 2023, as growing conditions presumably return to normal.”

The report projects that crop receipts in the state will decrease by $1.9 billion this year. Despite a growth in receipts brought on by strong commodity prices in 2022, lower projected prices for most commodities in 2023 are expected to contribute to the decrease in income. Planted corn acres are estimated to rise 5% this year, but lower corn prices are expected to reduce corn receipts by $1.4 billion. Soybean acres are anticipated to be down 3% this year, and the combination of lower acres and lower prices point to an expected $400 million fall in soybean receipts. Any lingering drought concerns that could hurt hay and wheat yields in 2023 could also further hurt 2023 farm income prospects.

Livestock receipts in Nebraska are projected to increase by $300 million in 2023, driven by higher expected cattle and calf receipts, which the report projects to rise by $506 million. This is despite tight inventories caused by ongoing herd liquidation in the state, which is being offset by higher prices this year. Hog and pig receipts are estimated to decline $117 million due to weaker prices and less marketing. And lower egg and milk prices are expected to contribute to a combined $96 million reduction in dairy, poultry and egg receipts.

Total production expenses in the state are forecast to increase only 2% in 2023, following double-digit increases in both 2021 and 2022. Following two years of sharp increases in fertilizer expenses — up to $791 million in 2022, a 43% increase over 2021 — expenses are expected to level off in 2023. The same is anticipated for feed expenses, which increased by $513 million in 2022. Fuel and oil prices are expected to fall modestly this year.

The Nebraska Farm Income Outlook Report is co-published by the Center for Agricultural Profitability and the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center (RaFF) at Missouri, which provides objective policy analysis and informs decision-makers on issues affecting farm and rural finances.

“RaFF’s state-level insights are critical for decision-makers,” RaFF interim director Scott Brown said. “By understanding the factors impacting farm income, and how producers and rural communities are affected, sound decisions on programs and policies can be formed.”

More information and the full report are available on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website, https://cap.unl.edu/farm-income.



DARI LLC, Launches MOO’V™ - A Lactose-Free, High-Protein, Low Sugar, Naturally Flavored Milk Beverage for Kid’s Health
 
DARI LLC, a trailblazer in the dairy industry announces the launch of their new line, MOO’V™, an ultra-filtered, lactose-free, whole milk beverage that consumers will be able to find in three satisfying flavors.

MOO’V™ is a high protein, low sugar beverage delivering optimized nutritional benefits to kids. The revolutionary approach of using natural flavors to enhance the already delicious taste of milk provides a drink with no need for additional sugar or added colors. Plus, the lactose-free, whole milk formula allows for easy digestion and sustainable energy. The new 14oz grab-and-go drink provides 19 grams of protein and only 7 grams of naturally occurring sugars.

Knowing there is a growing need for healthy and functional drinks, especially for kids, this is the time for the dairy industry to step in and revolutionize the space with the power of real milk. This trend is seen with existing lactose-free flavored milks, but oftentimes those products, targeted to kids, counter the benefits of milk by adding unnecessary sugar. MOO’V loses the sugar and delivers the great taste of Vanilla Ice Cream, Strawberry Cream, and Cinnamon Swirl Horchata with natural flavors.

This line of beverages has been in development for over three years by a 4th generation family farm, committed to delivering high quality, great taste, and convenient real milk drinks to consumers. In addition to having a functional drink for parents to provide to their children, DARI seeks to provide an entertaining experience to kids through their creative packaging design. On each bottle, they will learn something unique about where their food comes from, the nutritional value of real milk and they will experience an entertaining surprise from a dancing cow named Morgan, a 3D augmented reality character for smartphones and similar devices.

Comment Dan Ellsworth, DARI CEO
“We have been very pleased with the reactions from parents regarding the nutritional benefits of MOO’V. In addition, the kids love the taste and seem to really resonate with the idea of experiencing the brand. It’ll just be a question if the kids get to drink it before the parents find out how great the product tastes!”

Throughout the development of the product key support has been provided by the Dairy Checkoff and the Center for Dairy Research with current product trends and consumer insight for the innovation of this product.

MOO’V ultra-filtered, lactose-free, low-sugar beverage can be found in Hy-Vee grocery stores along with many convenience stores throughout the Upper Midwest. You can learn more about our product and our farm at Dari & Moo'v (realdari.com).

About DARI LLC
DARI LLC is a Midwest farmer based food company with locations in Nebraska and Wisconsin. They are focusing on the delivery of functional foods to consumers through highlighting the nutritional value of real milk with traceability back to individual farms. Whether it is fuel to get through the day or fuel to get through a stage of life, our calling is to provide the most complete source of nutrition, from our family farm to consumers. Milk is Fuel for Life.  



Beef industry experts, producers, agri-business leaders named to Nebraska Beef Innovation external advisory committee  

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s history in beef production systems is marked with over 100 years of excellence within the department of animal science, and the journey to enhance and continue to build resilient beef systems in the state is far from over.   

In order to leverage the systems-based efforts underway at Nebraska, 23 beef industry experts, agri-business leaders, and producers have been named to an external advisory committee of Nebraska Beef Innovation, who will provide guidance to the university regarding key regional and broader opportunities and issues within the beef industry in Nebraska and beyond.   

“The University of Nebraska has made a commitment towards integrated beef systems and assembled an amazing team of teachers, researchers, extension personnel and it’s a unique opportunity to make a tremendous difference in how we look at beef systems,” said Clay Mathis, Director of the King Ranch Institute for Ranch Management, and co-chair of the external advisory committee.   

Committee co-chairs Mathis, and Homer Buell representing the Ag Builders of Nebraska will lead industry experts, producers and agribusiness leaders to prioritize Nebraska’s greatest opportunities and communicate them to faculty and administration. The committee will serve to provide input for exceptional outcomes for Nebraska’s beef industry, which is uniquely positioned at the epicenter of beef production.   

“Nebraska is stepping out and putting forth a focused, purposeful initiative that is serving not only the beef producers of Nebraska, but the beef producers of North America,” said Mathis.   

“Our work at Nebraska in collaboration with other institutions better serves the stakeholders in this industry that we love.”  

Capitalizing on world-renowned research, teaching, and extension efforts already in place, Nebraska’s Beef Innovation Hub will serve as the place where conversations and solutions occur to support sustainable and robust beef production. The Hub’s vision is environmentally sound, resilient, socially responsible, and economically viable beef for Nebraska and beyond.   

Nebraska seedstock producer, external advisory board member and alumnus of Nebraska’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, David Schuler says he believes Nebraska has the right people in the right places to help build agriculture.   

“I hope Nebraska continues down the path that I’ve seen the last ten years, focusing on the importance of agriculture. We’ve got some big challenges in the beef industry. We need to continue to make sure the voice of the beef industry is heard,” said Schuler.   

The external advisory committee brings to Nebraska Beef Innovation a wealth of expertise and diverse perspectives:   
    Homer Buell, Nebraska Rancher, member of Nebraska Cattlemen and Ag Builders of Nebraska, and co-lead of the Beef Innovation Hub external advisory committee.  
    Clay Mathis, Director, King Ranch Institute for Ranch Management, Texas A&M Kingsville, TX, and co-lead of the Beef Innovation Hub external advisory committee  
    Charlie Arnot, CEO Look East, Center for Food Integrity, Gladstone, MO.  
    Abram Babcock, President, Adams Land and Cattle, LLC, Broken Bow, NE.  
    McKenzie Beals, Associate Veterinarian, D.V.M., Broken Bow Animal Hospital, Broken Bow, NE.   
    Mark Boggess, Director, US Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE.  
    Mike Drury, President, Greater Omaha Packing, Omaha, NE.  
    Laura Field, Executive Vice President, Nebraska Cattlemen, Lincoln, NE.  
    Alicia Hardin, Wildlife Division Administrator, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Lincoln, NE.  
    Kevin Hennessy, Director of Perishables, B&R Stores, Inc., Lincoln, NE.  
    Jess Hinrichs, Beef Technical Services Veterinarian, D.V.M, Zoetis, Sutton, NE.  
    Jud Jesske, Vice President, Capital Markets, Farm Credit Services of America, Lincoln, NE.  
    Chris Kalkowski, Vice President, First National Bank of Omaha, Omaha, NE.  
    Shelly Kelly, Executive Director, Sandhills Task Force, Broken Bow, NE.  
    Ginger Langemeier, Legislative Affairs Coordinator, Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit, Lincoln, NE.  
    Rob Mitchell, Location Coordinator and Research Leader, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Lincoln, NE.  
    Jeff Nichols, State Rangeland Management Specialist, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, North Platte, NE.  
    Trey Patterson, CEO, Padlock Ranch, Ranchester, WY.  
    Logan Pribbeno, President, Wine Glass Ranch, Inc., Imperial, NE.  
    Tim Schellpeper, President, Fed Beef Business Unit, JBS USA, Stanton, NE.  
    David Schuler, Ranch Manager, Schuler-Olsen Ranches, Inc., Bridgeport, NE.  
    Adam Smith, Forestry and Fire Bureau Chief, Nebraska Forest Service, Lincoln, NE.  
    Craig Uden, Darr Feedlot Inc., Agri Steer Inc., Owner, Cozad, NE.  

    To learn more about the Nebraska Beef Innovation, visit the website https://beefinnovation.unl.edu/, or connect with Beef Innovation on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook.    



Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association Meeting is April 10th
Dan Kellner, President, Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association

Spring is in the air, which means planting is just around the corner! Please join us for an informational meeting:

Monday, April 10, 2023
Pre-Planting Meeting
Saunders County 4H Building
6:30 PM Social Time
7:00 PM Dinner

Sponsors and speakers are:
Starborn Feeds - Karsten and Kelly Storm, Yutan
BeautyView Dairy Farm & Products - Konecky Family, Wahoo
Farmers Mutual United Insurance - Bobby Virgl, Wahoo
Dragonfly Insurance - Leon Binstock, Wahoo
Lower Plate North NRD - Eric Gottschalk, General Manager, will talk about the Wahoo Creek Water Shed plans.

Please help us recognize the 2023 Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association Scholarship winners, Trenton Barry, Hannah Johnson, Thomas Vrana, Evan Hartman, and Lucas Christensen.

There are a few who have not paid dues, please get a hold of one of your directors to get those paid.

The Saunders County Livestock & Ag Association Twilight Tour is being planned for June 26, 2023. Details to follow.



ALFALFA SEED SELECTION
– Todd Whitney, NE Extension Educator

The new free publication, “2023 Winter Survival, Fall Dormancy & Pest Resistance Ratings for Alfalfa Varieties” is now available online at: https://alfalfa.org through the Alfalfa and Forage Alliance. For Nebraska producers, the two most serious alfalfa diseases are Anthracnose and Phytophthora root rot. Both disease symptoms are most devastating on susceptible alfalfa varieties. Therefore, proper seed selection will be the first disease management line of defense. Select improved seed varieties with at least a moderate to high resistance to anthracnose and Phytophthora root rot to effectively prevent yield and stand losses. Also, consult your seed representative to get the best protection for your alfalfa fields.

Anthracnose can appear anytime of the year on any age of alfalfa stand. Affecting stems and crowns, this disease can move rapidly and lower forage production in as little as one to two growing seasons. In some cases, disease stress can reduce alfalfa’s ability to with stand cold temperatures resulting in winter or spring kill.

Phytophthora root rot is the most common root rot affecting all stages of alfalfa causing seedling death. This pathogen can cause seedling damping off in new stands followed by plant death in wet conditions in as little as a few days. In established stands, Phytophthora root rot causes taproot lesions resulting in up to a 50% yield loss and progressive decline over time and potential kill.

More alfalfa disease management information is available on our UNL Extension website: https://cropwatch.unl.edu Also, positive alfalfa disease identification can be confirmed by submitting samples to our UNL Extension Plant& Pest Diagnostic Clinic.



April is Soy Foods Month

Join soybean growers and consumers across the nation in celebrating Soy Foods Month this April.

The United States is one of the top soybean producing countries in the world. Generally, more than 80 million acres of soybeans are grown in the country each year, and farmers are dedicated to meeting the world’s demand for this important crop in a sustainable way. Through soil and water conservation, crop rotation, and carbon net neutrality goals, U.S. soybean farmers provide nutritious, versatile, and sustainable food to people across the globe.

Soy is praised for its health benefits, including its ability to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol. Its protein and oil, both conventional and high oleic varieties, carry heart health claims from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that states twenty-five grams of soy protein or 20.5 grams of soybean oil daily as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition to heart health benefits, soy foods may also improve cognitive function, lower blood pressure, enhance muscle and bone health and reduce risk of some cancers.

Another one of soy’s strengths is its versatility. From more traditional soy foods like tofu, edamame and tempeh to modern soy foods such as plant-based alternatives and soy protein bars, there is a soy product for every palate. It’s also commonly used as an ingredient in snack foods like potato chips cooked in soybean oil and chocolate bars where soy lecithin is used as a stabilizer and flavor protector.

Celebrate Soy Foods Month by incorporating more of this high-quality protein into your diet. Here are a few ideas:
• Try new soy foods! Tofu isn’t the only soy-based food at the grocery store. Enjoy popping edamame out of the pods for a snack, or add some protein into your pancakes with soy flour.
• Simple swaps: Start your day with a soy-based yogurt or serve soymilk with your favorite breakfast cereal.
• Seek out soy on the label: Most vegetable oil on store shelves is 100% soybean oil. Soybean oil is recognized for its heart health benefits, and it also has a neutral flavor and high heat stability, making it an excellent choice for cooking, baking, sautéing, and more.

“Soy foods are a great way to add healthful nutrients to your diet and support Nebraska farmers,” said Andy Chvatal, Nebraska Soybean Board executive director. “Whether you eat soy directly by sipping soymilk or enjoy soy second-hand though a pork chop or a chicken breast, you are supporting U.S. and Nebraska soybean farmers.”

For more information about soybeans and soy foods, visit nebraskasoybeans.org and ussoy.org.



Monthly Dairy Webinar April 19 to Focus on This Year’s Alfalfa Season

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dairy Team monthly webinar series continues on Wednesday, April 19 from 12 noon to 1 p.m. This program will focus on this year’s alfalfa season.

Mike Rankin will share what he sees in the hay and alfalfa market plus what things are looking like out in the field.

Mike Rankin joined Hay & Forage Grower as the managing editor in April 2015. He had previously served 27 years as the Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin crops and soils agent with the University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension Service.

Producers, dairy consultants, and industry reps are encouraged to attend the free webinar live from noon to 1:00 p.m. on April 19 by pre-registering at least one hour before the webinar at: https://go.iastate.edu/KUKNGK.

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.



IEDA Led Trade Mission to Vietnam, Philippines

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig and a 15-member delegation have just returned from a trade mission to Vietnam and the Philippines. The mission, coordinated by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), included representation from Iowa’s livestock and grain organizations as well as other agricultural associations. The purpose of the mission was to encourage trade development, bolster partnerships and identify opportunities to expand export markets.

In 2022, Iowa companies exported $227 million in agricultural goods to Vietnam and $273 million to the Philippines. Southeast Asia has considerable trade potential, and Vietnam, as one of the fastest growing feed markets in the world, and the Philippines, as the region’s second most populous country with a need for consistent food access, both offer trade and industry development opportunities.

Vietnam and the Philippines both ranked in the top 10 U.S. agricultural export markets in 2022. Vietnam was the second largest soybean meal market for U.S. exports in 2022, and the Philippines had become the major U.S. ethanol importer for the region as the ninth largest market in 2021. Beef and pork exports are also a key market while the region’s animal protein consumption is expected to increase by 20% over the next five years.

“Vietnam and the Philippines are already important trading partners for Iowa, but we have an opportunity to increase our market share because of their growing populations and our longstanding reputation as a dependable, proven, and consistent supplier of high-quality products,” said Secretary Naig. “Our global customers welcome the opportunity to meet with Iowa farmers, and these relationships will benefit us long-term as we seek to sell more Iowa corn, pork, soybeans, beef, biofuels and many other products.”

The Iowa ag delegation visited areas in and around Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam and Manila, Philippines, from March 24 – April 1. The business meetings included trade policy updates, information sessions on Iowa’s agricultural industry and business development discussions. The delegation included Iowa companies from the ag processing industry and representatives from the Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Corn, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Pork Producers Association and the Iowa Soybean Association. IEDA worked with the U.S. Grains Council, U.S. Meat Export Federation and U.S. Soybean Export Council to identify business prospects for the mission.

IEDA’s International Trade Office connects Iowa companies with markets for their products and services, educates Iowa businesses on exporting and assists global companies wishing to establish or expand operations in Iowa. To find out more about these services or other trade missions, visit iowaeda.com.



Study Demonstrates Red Meat Exports’ Value to Corn and Soybean Industries

A record value of beef and pork exports brought significant returns to the U.S. corn and soybean industries in 2022, according to an independent study conducted by World Perspectives, Inc. and released by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). U.S. pork and beef exports contributed an estimated total economic impact of 15% per bushel to the value of corn and 13% per bushel to soybeans in 2022, according to the study.

“For every bushel of corn we marketed in 2022, a little over $1 was attributed to red meat exports and with soybeans, pork exports contributed $1.94 per bushel,” says USMEF Chair Dean Meyer, who produces corn, soybeans, cattle and hogs near Rock Rapids, Iowa. “Pork and beef exports bring critical support to our bottom lines.”

Corn and soybean growers support the international promotion of U.S. pork, beef and lamb by investing a portion of their checkoff dollars in market development efforts conducted by USMEF.

“We are a major exporter of corn and soybeans but this study reminds us of the value of our indirect exports of corn and soybeans through pork and beef,” says Dave Juday, senior analyst for World Perspectives. “The contributions of pork and beef exports to the per-bushel value of U.S. corn and soybeans in 2022 were the highest estimates we’ve seen to date. And that was critically important, as corn and soybean farmers worked to maintain margins with higher input costs across the board.”

Key findings from the study, which utilized 2022 statistics provided by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service and data analysis by World Perspectives, include:

Exporting corn through U.S. beef and pork
    Beef and pork exports accounted for 503.4 million bushels of U.S. corn usage, which equated to a market value of $3.4 billion (at an average corn price of $6.75 per bushel).
    Beef and pork exports accounted for 3.42 million tons of DDGS usage, equating to $834 million (at an average price of $244 per ton).
    Beef and pork exports contributed an estimated total economic impact of 15%, or $1.01, of bushel value in 2022 at an average price of $6.75 per bushel.

Exporting soybeans through U.S. pork
    Pork exports accounted for 89.7 million bushels of U.S. soybean usage, which equated to a market value of $1.33 billion (at an average price of $14.83 per bushel).
    Pork exports contributed an estimated total economic impact of 13% of bushel value, or $1.94, in 2022 at an average price of $14.83 per bushel.

Handouts detailing the impact of red meat exports at the national level and on the leading corn-producing and soybean-producing states are available from the USMEF website.



USDA Oilseed, Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production - Feb 2023

Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 5.31 million tons (177 million bushels) in February 2023, compared with 5.73 million tons (191 million bushels) in January 2023 and 5.23 million tons (174 million bushels) in February 2022. Crude oil produced was 2.09 billion pounds down 7 percent from January 2023 but up 1 percent from February 2022. Soybean once refined oil production at 1.68 billion pounds during February 2023 decreased 3 percent from January 2023 but increased 8 percent from February 2022.

Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 444 million bushels in February 2023. Total corn consumption was down 10 percent from January 2023 and down 3 percent from February 2022. February 2023 usage included 91.9 percent for alcohol and 8.1 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 3.36 million bushels, down 45 percent from January 2023 and down 17 percent from February 2022. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 400 million bushels, was down 9 percent from January 2023 and down 2 percent from February 2022. Corn consumed in February 2023 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 91.5 percent and 8.5 percent, respectively.

Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.56 million tons during February 2023, down 9 percent from January 2023 and down 8 percent from February 2022. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.16 million tons in February 2023, down 8 percent from January 2023 and down 11 percent from February 2022.

Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 247,817 tons during February 2023, down 8 percent from January 2023 but up 4 percent from February 2022. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 185,051 tons in February 2023, down 11 percent from January 2023 and down 3 percent from February 2022.



USDA Dairy Products February 2023 Production Highlights

Total cheese output (excluding cottage cheese) was 1.11 billion pounds, 0.4 percent above February 2022 but 7.9 percent below January 2023. Italian type cheese production totaled 460 million pounds, 1.4 percent below February 2022 and 8.0 percent below January 2023. American type cheese production totaled 453 million pounds, 2.4 percent above February 2022 but 9.1 percent below January 2023. Butter production was 186 million pounds, 1.6 percent above February 2022 but 7.4 percent below January 2023.

Dry milk products (comparisons in percentage with February 2022)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 178 million pounds, up 4.5 percent.
Skim milk powder - 38.2 million pounds, up 28.9 percent.

Whey products (comparisons in percentage with February 2022)
Dry whey, total - 66.5 million pounds, down 5.3 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 83.1 million pounds, down 10.4 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 36.7 million pounds, down 9.8 percent.

Frozen products (comparisons in percentage with February 2022)
Ice cream, regular (hard) - 59.1 million gallons, up 7.7 percent.
Ice cream, lowfat (total) - 32.3 million gallons, up 4.5 percent.
Sherbet (hard) - 2.31 million gallons, down 8.3 percent.
Frozen yogurt (total) - 4.29 million gallons, up 0.5 percent.



Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and CoBank invest $1 million in K-State College of Agriculture’s innovation centers

Four Kansas Farm Credit Associations and CoBank recently combined to give $1 million to support the Kansas State University College of Agriculture's innovation centers for grain, food, animal and agronomy research.

This investment will fund new facilities, renovations of current buildings and improvements in the technology and equipment necessary for interdisciplinary, cutting-edge research, all of which will continue to enhance the college's exceptional student experience.

"An investment in Kansas State University's innovation centers is an investment in the future of U.S. agriculture," said Bob Campbell, senior vice president of Frontier Farm Credit, speaking on behalf of Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and CoBank. "The university is focused on solving some of today's biggest challenges in agriculture. The projects funded through our donation will enhance the university's leadership in global food systems and bio-security innovations and directly benefit producers and agri-businesses. We are proud to partner with Kansas State University in a shared mission of supporting agriculture and rural communities for today and tomorrow."

Contributors to this investment are Farm Credit of Western Kansas, Colby; High Plains Farm Credit, Larned; Frontier Farm Credit, Manhattan; and CoBank and American AgCredit, both in Wichita.

This investment supports the university's interdisciplinary research initiative, which brings together the brightest minds from across the K-State campus to collaborate and work with agricultural leaders from the state and region.

"Our vision for our new infrastructure project is to create state-of-the-art space to bring many of our departments together for interdisciplinary research," said Ernie Minton, dean of the College of Agriculture and director of K-State Research and Extension. "The opportunities and challenges we face in agriculture are complex in nature and increasing in number globally. We need to bring the best minds to the table with different skills and knowledge to collaborate, integrate and develop innovative solutions that prepare the next-generation workforce to keep agriculture moving forward."



Growth Energy Launches Campaign to Protect Summer Savings with E15

Growth Energy announced a new ad campaign today calling on President Biden’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure uninterrupted access to cleaner, more affordable E15 fuel during the fast-approaching summer driving season. The seven-figure campaign will include television and digital advertising in Washington, DC and in major biofuel-producing states.

“The clock is ticking, and we need the administration to act swiftly to ensure fuel savings from E15 do not disappear from gas stations this summer,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Immediate action on a summer waiver would signal relief at the pump for consumers and provide retailers with the certainty they need to fully commit to offering E15 over the summer ahead. That’s why we’re rallying grassroots supporters, retail partners, and elected leaders across the heartland to protect access to fuel savings with E15.”
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“Last year, thanks to action by the Biden administration, E15 saved drivers nearly a dollar per gallon in some areas, with savings averaging to $0.16 per gallon across the country,” added Skor. “Russia’s war in Ukraine, low crude oil inventories, and other supply issues continue to drive volatility in our fuel markets, and we need President Biden to act again.

To learn more about the campaign or send a note to lawmakers, Growth Energy urges biofuel supporters to visit GrowthEnergy.Org/E15.



USDA Announces April 2023 Lending Rates for Agricultural Producers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced loan interest rates for April 2023, which are effective April 3, 2023. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide important access to capital to help agricultural producers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs.

Operating, Ownership and Emergency Loans
FSA offers farm ownership and operating loans with favorable interest rates and terms to help eligible agricultural producers, whether multi-generational, long-time, or new to the industry, obtain financing needed to start, expand or maintain a family agricultural operation. FSA also offers emergency loans to help producers recover from production and physical losses due to drought, flooding, other natural disasters or quarantine.  For many loan options, FSA sets aside funding for underserved producers, including veterans, beginning, women, American Indian or Alaskan Native, Asian, Black or African American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, and Hispanic farmers and ranchers.

Interest rates for Operating and Ownership loans for April 2023 are as follows:
    Farm Operating Loans (Direct): 4.750%
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct): 4.750%
    Farm Ownership Loans (Direct, Joint Financing): 2.750%
    Farm Ownership Loans (Down Payment): 1.500%
    Emergency Loan (Amount of Actual Loss): 3.750%

FSA also offers guaranteed loans through commercial lenders at rates set by those lenders.

To access an interactive online, step-by-step guide through the farm loan process, visit the Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov.

Commodity and Storage Facility Loans
Additionally, FSA provides low-interest financing to producers to build or upgrade on-farm storage facilities and purchase handling equipment and loans that provide interim financing to help producers meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are low.  Funds for these loans are provided through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and are administered by FSA.

Commodity Loans (less than one year disbursed): 5.875%

Farm Storage Facility Loans:
        o Three-year loan terms: 4.375%
        o Five-year loan terms: 4.000%
        o Seven-year loan terms: 4.000%
        o Ten-year loan terms: 3.875%
        o Twelve-year loan terms: 3.875%
    Sugar Storage Facility Loans (15 years): 4.000%

Simplified Direct Loan Application
FSA developed a new, simplified direct loan application for producers seeking a direct farm loan. The new application, reduced from 29 to 13 pages, provides improved customer experience for producers applying for loans and enables them to complete a more streamlined application. Producers now also have the option to complete an electronic fillable form or a traditional paper application for submission to their local FSA service center.

Pandemic and Disaster Support
FSA broadened the use of the Disaster Set-Aside (DSA), normally used in the wake of natural disasters, to allow farmers with USDA farm loans who are affected by COVID-19, and are determined eligible, to have their next payment set-aside. Because of the pandemic’s continued impacts, producers can apply for a second DSA for COVID-19 or a second DSA for a natural disaster for producers with an initial DSA for COVID-19. The set-aside payment’s due date is moved to the final maturity date of the loan or extended up to 12 months in the case of an annual operating loan. Any principal set-aside will continue to accrue interest until it is repaid. Use of the expanded DSA program can help to improve a borrower’s cashflow in the current production cycle.

FSA also reminds rural communities, farmers and ranchers, families and small businesses affected by the year’s winter storms, drought, hurricanes and other natural disasters, that USDA has programs that provide assistance. USDA staff in the regional, state and county offices are prepared to deliver a variety of program flexibilities and other assistance to agricultural producers and impacted communities. Many programs are available without an official disaster designation, including several risk management and disaster recovery options.

Inflation Reduction Act Assistance for Distressed Producers
On Aug. 16, 2022, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) into law. It is a historic, once-in-a-generation investment and opportunity for the agricultural communities that USDA serves. Section 22006 of the IRA provided $3.1 billion for USDA to provide relief for distressed borrowers with certain FSA direct and guaranteed loans and to expedite assistance for those whose agricultural operations are at financial risk.  In October 2022, USDA provided approximately $800 million in initial IRA assistance to more than 11,000 delinquent direct and guaranteed borrowers and approximately 2,100 borrowers who had their farms liquidated and still had remaining debt. In April 2023, USDA intends to provide a new round of relief starting that will include approximately $123 million in automatic financial assistance for qualified direct and guaranteed borrowers. Qualifying borrowers will receive an individual letter detailing the assistance as payments are made. Eligibility for these new categories of automatic payments include:  
    Assistance to direct loan borrowers who were past due on a qualifying direct loan as of September 30, 2022, but by fewer than 60 days, and remained delinquent on that loan as of March 27, 2023.
    Assistance to borrowers who restructured a qualifying direct loan after February 28, 2020, through primary loan servicing available through FSA.
    Assistance to borrowers whose interest owed on their qualifying direct loan debt exceeds the principal owed (on a loan-by-loan basis)

For more information producers can contact their local USDA Service Center or visit farmers.gov/inflation-reduction-investments/assistance.

More Information
Producers can explore available options on all FSA loan options at fsa.usda.gov or by contacting their local USDA Service Center.