Tuesday November 21 Ag News

 So much to be thankful for
Alfredo DiCostanzo, NE Beef Systems Extension Educator

As the week of Thanksgiving 2023 draws to a close, there is so much to be thankful for. Although it is easy to concentrate on negativity around us: wars, inflation, social unrest, and threats to the freedom upon which this nation was built, we manage to remain free and prosperous.

The beef industry is going through a period of shrinking inventories. This cyclical response to supply and demand caused beef prices to increase: the Choice beef cutout increased nearly $50/cwt since November 2022. Yet, the American consumer continues to put beef on their table.

The Weekly Economic Index, a collection of ten indicators aggregated weekly of real economic activity reflecting GDP growth, consumer behavior, the labor market and production, has been increasing slowly and steadily since mid-2023. This is great news for the nation’s economy and beef cattle producers.

Although news of declining export activity has been heard frequently in 2023, it is important to note that beef production also declined. Therefore, this response was somewhat expected and not directly related to a waning appetite for US beef by our trading partners abroad.

Closer to home the drought monitor map depicts Northeast Nebraska under severe or less than severe drought. In recent weeks, pastures and crop fields are greening up hopefully reflecting soil water recharging.

Fed cattle prices traded mostly laterally since the summer; yet, fed cattle prices remain at record high levels. We expect that in early 2024 fed cattle prices will find new highs; just in time to accommodate higher break-even because of higher prices of feeder cattle entering the feedlots since the summer.

Concurrently, high feeder calf prices are good news to the cow-calf sector. This cash influx is much needed by the communities where cow-calf ranches exist.




CVA reports on 2023 Fiscal Year at Annual Meeting

On November 20, 2023, Central Valley Ag (CVA) hosted its Annual Meeting at the Holthus Convention Center in York, Neb. CVA reported $61.1 million in total profit with $39.1 million in local profit from $2.4 billion in total sales for the 2023 fiscal year, ending on August 31, 2023. Within this profit, the cooperative was able to pay out the highest amount of cash paid to patrons in the last seven years.

CVA reported over $38.4 million in cash paid out to patrons through equity redemptions and patronage for fiscal year 2023. “Central Valley Ag could not be successful without the member-owners,” said President/CEO of CVA, Carl Dickinson. “It is gratifying to share success with them in the form of cash payouts.”

Central Valley Ag continued to improve service to patrons through improvements and expansion projects this last fiscal year. The cooperative reported an investment of $64 million in capital expenditures in fiscal year 2023. “To effectively provide for our member-owners, we need to ensure we have top-tier facilities, equipment, and people. Reinvesting capital is an important part of running a prosperous business,” said Dickinson.

Through its mail-in ballot process, CVA held elections for the Board of Directors. Voting stockholders elected the following producers to the board: Kurt Thoene of Hartington, Neb., Region 2; Heath Reimers of Clarks, Neb., Region 3; Carmen Schlickbernd of West Point, Neb., Region 4; Luke Carlson of York, Neb., Region 5; Tom Vodicka of Surprise, Neb., Region 6; and Ryan May of Hunter, Kan., Region 9.

The Board of Directors is made up of local agricultural producers who are recognized for their industry expertise, as well as economic and community development skills. Its mission is to provide leadership of CVA’s current direction and initiatives, in addition to positioning the organization for future success and profitability for members.

“Serving on the CVA Cooperative Board is about representing your neighbors,” said CVA Board Chairman, Luke Carlson. “We make sure that their needs are met, and if they're not being met, we find out how we can better serve them.”



Albion woman honored for generosity with time, dedication to agriculture

An Albion woman whose dedication to agriculture has been described as inspiring to others was honored at Northeast Community College on Friday morning.

Hilary (Esch) Maricle was named the 2023 AgCeptional Woman of the Year during Northeast Community College’s AgCeptional Women’s Conference on the Northeast campus in Norfolk.

The announcement was made as part of a video tribute that was played during the opening session of the 15th annual conference. The video was sponsored by Farm Credit Services of America and produced by the Northeast Agriculture Department and District 25 Productions.

Maricle said the award belongs to the other women in the room as they make it happen on the farm every day. She had been surprised earlier when she was given the award – a moment that was captured on the video shown Friday morning at the conference.

“It was a wild day. It was the day they had a big shower for our family (with a family event), so that was exciting. And then that night was homecoming, so it was like, ‘OK, we’ll squeeze one more thing into our day. This is our life. This is normal.’ And so I think that’s the reality for most of the people in this room,” Maricle said to a room full of hundreds of women gathered to celebrate women’s accomplishments in agriculture.

A special selection committee made up of professionals from agricultural businesses and operations is assembled each year to select the winner from a competitive group of nominees.

Even though Maricle’s parents owned a grocery store in Spading where she grew up, her goal was a farming career, patterning those of both sets of grandparents.

That dream became a reality when she met Brian Marcile of rural Albion at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where both were agricultural majors. She earned a bachelor of science degree in agricultural sciences and a master of science degree in leadership education from UNL.

She and Brian married and live on the homestead farm that has been in the Maricle family since 1871. As owner-operator of Maricle Family Farms, she is immersed in the couple’s livestock and grain operations.

Her accomplishments include:
• Agriculture education instructor/FFA adviser at Spalding and Albion
• Agribusiness instructor and associate dean of agriculture, math and science at Northeast
• UNL Extension Leadership team (including engagement zone coordinator)

Last January, Maricle was appointed Nebraska’s deputy director of agriculture in recognition of her extensive experience and education in natural resources, leadership, agriculture and agribusiness.

“I have a deep-rooted passion for agriculture that I want to share with others, and I’m excited to be a part of NDA (Nebraska Department of Agriculture) in my home state where agriculture is our No. 1 industry,” Maricle said.

In her new role as deputy director, she will build on Nebraska’s successes in agriculture and pursue future opportunities both locally and internationally to grow the state’s economy.

Sherry Vinton, Nebraska Department of Agriculture director, said, “With her extensive knowledge and background, Hiliary understands agriculture and how important ag is to growing Nebraska’s economy. I can’t think of a better person to promote and support Nebraska’s ag industry.”  

Maricle was nominated for the AgCeptional Woman award by Mary Pat Hoag, Norfolk, who was a pioneer for women on reporting on agricultural issues for the Norfolk Daily News for decades.

Hoag said Maricle is passionate about the agricultural industry as evidenced by her selfless giving of herself as an “ag-vocate” on many agricultural fronts over the years.

“Hilary uses social media as an ag producer to connect with consumers and has championed for the family farm in Washington, D.C. She was in the Nebraska Leadership Action Development Program’s Class 34, enhancing her leadership and communication skills and knowledge of the world. Hillary’s other involvements include her community and her parish (St. Michael’s in Albion), as well as serving four years as an elected Boone County commissioner,” Hoag said.

The AgCeptional Women’s Conference is northeast Nebraska’s premier event for women in agriculture, attracting over 400 women annually who come together for a full day of networking, professional development, and personal growth opportunities.

This year’s event was to continue through the day on Friday, featuring speakers who discussed issues related to agriculture on a range of topics.

Anita Keys, Elsmere, was named the 2022 Ag-ceptional Woman of the Year during last year’s conference. Other past Ag-Ceptional Woman of the Year honorees include Joan Ruskamp, Dodge (2021), Lisa Kruger, Columbus (2020); Lisa Lunz, Wakefield (2019); Shana Beattie, Sumner (2018); Liz Doerr, Creighton (2017); Anne Meis, Elgin (2016); Karen Grant, Meadow Grove (2015); Dawn Winkelbauer, Norfolk (2014); Jan Frenzen, Fullerton (2013) Nancy Kirkholm, Homer (2012); Jan Miller, Belden (2011); and Bonnie Schulz, Battle Creek (2010).

When Maricle thinks of a successful future for the U.S. agricultural industry, she thinks of her five children.

“I want to make sure the seventh generation (of Maricles) gets to farm,” she said.

To learn more about the annual conference, contact Karmen Hake at khake1@northeast.edu or call (402) 844-7181.



Nebraska Cattlemen Announces Young Cattlemen’s Connections Class of 2024

Nebraska Cattlemen is proud to announce the Young Cattlemen’s Connections (YCC) Class of 2024. The selection committee chose ten emerging leaders for the prestigious two-year program to help these participants develop a solid foundation of industry knowledge and to strengthen the future of Nebraska’s beef industry.

Nebraska Cattlemen President-elect Dick Pierce stated, “Again, as in the past, we have a group of top notch candidates for Nebraska Cattlemen’s YCC program. Congratulations to each and every one for applying and showing a commitment to this fine program. This has become a proving ground for leadership and we expect great things from our candidates as they journey through the program and later as they assume leadership roles not only in our industry but in their respective communities.”

Young Cattlemen’s Connections Class of 2024
Krista Carter, Alliance
Caitlin Coulson, Ceresco   
Talia Goes, Talmage
Dan Malousek, Prague
David McDonald, Phillips
Stephanie Nelson, Gibbon
Kolin Scheele, Fairbury
Jason Star, North Platte
Collin Thompson, Eustis
Eric Woita, Plainview

During the two-year program, YCC members are provided with extensive communication training, given the opportunity to tour multiple Nebraska-based agriculture production facilities, and trained on how to navigate state agencies and legislative processes.

This program is made possible by the sponsorship of Farm Credit Services of America, Neogen and the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation.

To learn more about the Young Cattlemen’s Connections Program, please visit www.nebraskacattlemen.org.



Farmers Tax Guides

Farmers can better understand their 2023 tax returns with help from a guide available through  the IRS. The 2023 Farmers Tax Guide has illustrated examples, a sample return, and explains how the federal tax laws apply to farming. The 2023 Farmers Tax Guide is available for free to download from the IRS website at this link: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p225.pdf.



Custom operators invited to participate in UNL Custom Rates Survey
 
One of most popular Nebraska Extension publications for those involved in providing or hiring custom machine hire on farms and ranches is the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s biennial Nebraska Custom Rates Survey and Report. The 2024 survey is now in development, and anyone involved in providing custom work for hire in Nebraska is invited to participate.

The survey of agricultural custom operators is conducted in the state every two years by the university’s Center for Agricultural Profitability. Corresponding reports publish the current rates charged by custom operators for machine hire services or other work they provide for neighboring farms and ranches, or as part of a business enterprise that covers a broader area.

“The larger the survey sample size of those completing the survey, the more useful the survey results will be,” said Glennis McClure, an extension educator and farm and ranch management analyst who leads the survey.

Participants may submit their responses either online or by mail. Requests for a survey should be made on the Center for Agricultural Profitability’s website, at https://cap.unl.edu/customrates.

The Nebraska Custom Rates Survey includes spring and summer operations such as tillage, planting and haying in part one. The second part surveys operators that provide custom machine hire typically done in the fall, including grain harvest, hauling, cutting ensilage, hauling livestock and other miscellaneous operations. Results from the 2024 survey will be published by second quarter of 2024. Custom rate information in Nebraska is grouped in the report by the eight Nebraska Agricultural Statistics Districts.

The 2022 Nebraska Custom Rates report is available online at cap.unl.edu/customrates. For questions, contact McClure at 402-472-0661 or gmcclure3@unl.edu.



REDUCING HAY FEEDING LOSSES
– Jerry Volesky, NE Extension Educator

Hay is expensive and many long hours go into harvesting, storing, and feeding it.  Don’t waste up to a third of it by using poor feeding practices.

Believe it or not, cattle can trample, over consume, manure on, and use for bedding up to 25 to 45 percent of your hay when it is fed with no restrictions.  Extra control in feeding can pay off big time with that expensive hay.

For starters, don’t provide more than one day’s supply at a time.  Research has shown that when cows are fed a four-day supply, they will overeat and waste 20 to 30 percent more hay than when they are fed one day at a time.  This adds up to $50 to $75 more per cow over a four-month feeding period.  Best of all is to feed only what the livestock will clean up in one meal, so nothing is left over to be wasted.  Be sure to provide sufficient space, though, for all animals to eat at once so boss cows don’t stop timid cows from getting their fair share.

Another thing you can do is restrict access to hay.  Use bale racks or rings to keep animals off the hay.  Especially useful are racks with barriers around the bottom that prevent livestock from pulling hay loose with their feet and dragging it out to be stepped on. If you unroll bales or grind and feed on the ground, position an electric fence alongside or above the hay to keep cows from trampling or bedding down on the hay.

As always, feed a balanced ration that provides sufficient energy and protein, but not too much.  Animals that eat more protein than they need will simply excrete it as extra nitrogen in their urine.  This is just as wasteful as directly trampling it into the ground.




The Renewable Fuel Standard Shattered the “Blend Wall” for Ethanol
Scott Richman, Chief Economist, Renewable Fuels Association

Not so long ago, renewable fuel critics claimed that due to purported infrastructure and vehicle constraints, the ethanol content in gasoline simply could not exceed 10.0%. They referred to this supposed limitation as the “blend wall,” and for several years that terminology found its way into virtually every debate about ethanol, the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), and higher-level blends.

But no one really talks about the “blend wall” anymore. Why?

Because ethanol’s blend rate has exceeded 10.0% every year since 2016 and hit a record 10.38% in 2022, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The experience of the past several years shows that the “blend wall” was nothing more than a fictional barricade. In fact, as this analysis shows, the U.S. market is on pace to consume some 630 million gallons of ethanol over and above the so-called “blend wall” this year, proving once again that the 10.0% threshold is not a real barrier.

Given this reality, critics changed their tune to say that the blend rate would not have exceeded 10% if not for the RFS, the primary federal program that has promoted the usage of biofuels since 2005. While this argument de-emphasizes other factors that have contributed to the rising blend rate, such as ethanol’s cost-competitiveness compared to gasoline and especially other sources of octane, it is consistent with the intent behind the enactment of the RFS.

As the Environmental Protection Agency has noted, “The RFS program can be thought of as a market-forcing policy. The objective of the program is to introduce increasing volumes of renewable fuels … into the marketplace. Congress made the decision that this is an appropriate policy objective, and put in place a program to achieve that policy goal.”* Indeed, if we accept the argument that ethanol blending would be “stuck” at or below 10.0% in the absence of the RFS, then actual ethanol consumption without the RFS in 2023 would be around 13.6 billion gallons rather than the 14.2 billion gallons we are expecting with the RFS in place.

The facts clearly show that the RFS has been successful in expanding the market for ethanol. This analysis takes a look at one aspect of that expansion: consumption above the “blend wall.”

The vast majority of gasoline sold in the U.S. contains 10% ethanol (E10), but ethanol flex fuels (for example, E85) have been available for more than two decades, and E15 has been experiencing record sales, due in part to prices that are usually at a substantial discount to regular unleaded gasoline at the pump. Still, there are small volumes of ethanol-free gasoline (E0) sold in the U.S., often near marinas, and for that reason, refiners have said that the effective “blend wall” is 9.95% or lower.

That threshold was breached in 2016. In fact, the blend rate showed a consistent upward trend from 2012 to 2017 before retrenching in 2018—the first drop in the blend rate since 1996, a drought year. What happened in 2018? Massive exemptions from the RFS were doled out to small refineries by the EPA under Scott Pruitt (the administrator from February 2017 to July 2018), stocks of compliance credits (i.e., RINs) swelled, and RIN prices crashed. Once the granting of sizable exemptions was halted, the ethanol blend rate resumed its upward trend. Under new leadership, the EPA eventually changed its approach to small-refinery exemptions and denied almost all pending petitions, restoring integrity to the RFS.

If those who say ethanol usage above the effective “blend wall” would not occur absent the RFS are correct, this raises the question of how much of the more than 14 billion gallons of ethanol consumed annually in the U.S. is attributable to the RFS. This can be readily calculated by multiplying actual gasoline consumption by 9.95% and then subtracting the product from actual ethanol consumption.

Based on this approach, an additional 585 million gallons of ethanol were used in. In 2023, it is projected that 634 million gallons of ethanol will be used beyond the “blend wall,” given that the percentage increase in ethanol usage is expected to be greater than that of gasoline. Those are significant volumes, representing the equivalent of a 4-5% boost in total annual ethanol demand.

Conclusion
Under the RFS, ethanol approached and then soundly broke through the alleged “blend wall.” In 2005, when the original RFS was enacted, the blend rate was approximately 3%. By 2010, it was above 9%. This year it is expected to exceed 10.4%. Given that ethanol is cost-competitive with gasoline, enhances energy security, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 44-52% compared to gasoline, it’s clear that the RFS has been a resounding success.



British Pork Now California-Ready with NSF’s Bundled Prop 12 and Red Tractor Certification

NSF, the leading global public health and safety organisation, has become one of the first UK certification bodies to offer California’s Proposition 12 (Prop 12) certification for British pork producers. In addition to its unique position as the only Red Tractor Certification Body for pork in the UK, NSF continues to pioneer in industry certifications, offering British farmers a comprehensive solution for certifying their pork production.

Proposition 12 is a ground-breaking animal welfare law from California that sets higher standards for confining certain farm animals. The law goes into effect on January 1, 2024, making Prop 12 certification critical for British producers eyeing the lucrative US market, as it ensures their compliance with Californian animal welfare standards.

“NSF’s Prop 12 certification means British pork producers can now access the Californian market with greater confidence,” says Dale Newitt, Director of Supply Chain Food Safety, NSF. “This aligns perfectly with NSF’s mission to improve and protect human health, as healthier animals mean safer, higher quality meat for consumers. Despite accounting for nearly 15% of total US pork consumption, California only produces 1% of it, making it heavily dependent on interstate and international imports. In 2022, the total import of pork in the US exceeded £1.3 billion, making the Prop 12 certification a significant market opportunity for UK pork producers.”

NSF also offers the unique advantage of bundled auditing, allowing Prop 12 and Red Tractor audits to happen simultaneously, which reduces the audit burden on British farmers, making certification more efficient and cost-effective.

“Bundled auditing is a game-changer for British farmers,” adds Dale. “By conducting Prop 12 and Red Tractor audits at the same time, we can cut down on the time and expenses usually associated with gaining these important certifications.”

As a trusted name in the industry, NSF emphasises the importance of animal wellness as part of its broader commitment to public health. Its dual certification services underscore its commitment to supporting British farmers and the industry at large, offering them a streamlined approach to meet the increasingly rigorous standards of domestic and international markets.

Red Tractor CEO, Jim Moseley said: "Market access is a key goal for food chain assurance and Red Tractor has been working closely on this with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and NSF over recent months. I'm delighted that we can now offer UK pig farmers access to this important market for selling safe and traceable UK pork.

"We have explored all the different options for achieving this, including whether the CDFA could simply recognise the Red Tractor scheme directly. However, Californian legislation requires the independent assessment and certification body to be certified by CDFA.

"That's why news that NSF has now been certified by CDFA is so significant. It makes it very easy for pig farmers and their processors to access the California market from January next year. As part of their existing Red Tractor assessment, they will be able to simply add the Prop 12 checks, where required, and have access this important market for their pork.

"This is an important milestone for the pigs sector in this country. Hopefully it can be the start of a productive and ongoing new trading relationship. We're encouraging the CDFA to visit the UK so that they can see first-hand the high standards our Red Tractor farmers work to."

Monday November 20 Crop Progress + Ag News

 NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending November 19, 2023, there were 6.5 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Topsoil moisture supplies rated 23% very short, 32% short, 43% adequate, and 2% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 28% very short, 36% short, 35% adequate, and 1% surplus.

Field Crops Report:
Corn harvested was 95%, near 98% last year and 93% for the five-year average.

Winter wheat condition rated 2% very poor, 7% poor, 37% fair, 38% good, and 16% excellent.

Sorghum harvested was 95%, near 97% last year and 93% average.

Pasture and Range Report:
Pasture and range conditions rated 12% very poor, 17% poor, 37% fair, 29% good, and 5% excellent.



Iowa Crop Progress Report  

Another dry and warmer than normal week statewide led to 6.8 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending November 19, 2023, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Fieldwork included harvesting corn, completing fall tillage, applying fall fertilizer, and hauling manure. Reports of tile work being done in fields were received this week.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 22 percent very short, 47 percent short, 31 percent adequate and 0 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 32 percent very short, 43 percent short, 24 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus.

Corn harvested for grain reached 97 percent statewide, on pace with last year but 10 days ahead of the 5-year average. Farmers in South Central Iowa still have over 10 percent of their corn for grain crop remaining to be harvested.

Cattle continued grazing on stalk fields. Reports of more calves being weaned were received.



USDA Crop Progress Report: 7% of Corn Left to Harvest, Soybean Harvest Wraps Up as of Nov. 19

Most soybean fields have been harvested, while about 7% of the nation's corn crop was left to harvest as of Sunday, Nov. 19, USDA NASS reported in its weekly Crop Progress report on Monday.

CORN
-- Harvest progress: Corn harvest moved ahead 5 percentage points to reach 93% complete as of Sunday, Nov. 19. That is 3 percentage points behind last year's pace of 96% but still 2 percentage points ahead of 91% for the five-year average.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Planting progress: Winter wheat planting inched ahead another 2 percentage points last week to reach 95% complete as of Sunday. That is 3 percentage points behind last year's 98% and 1 point behind the five-year average of 96%.
-- Crop progress: 87% of the crop had emerged as of Sunday, 1 point ahead of last year's 86% and 2 points ahead of the five-year average of 85%.
-- Crop condition: Winter wheat condition was rated 48% good to excellent, up 1 percentage point from 47% the previous week and still well above 32% at this time a year ago.



Confronting Cropping Challenges Program to be Offered in November 2023
Aaron Nygren - Extension Educator

The Confronting Cropping Challenges (CCC) is a Nebraska Extension program focused on the current and emerging cropping issues that impacted northeastern area of the state during the 2023 growing season. This program is also intended to help producers make decisions for 2024.

After the CCC, producers have the option to recertify their private pesticide applicator license for those licenses expiring in 2024. This is the seventh year for the program, and responses from previous years have been very positive. This year, the program will be offered in three locations across northeast Nebraska in November. The CCC is a 2.5-hour program starting at 1 p.m. central time. Private pesticide applicator training will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. central time. Locations and dates are:
    Tuesday, Nov. 28 — Albion, Nebraska; Casey's Building Fairgrounds.
    Wednesday, Nov. 29 — Randolph, Nebraska; City Auditorium.
    Thursday, Nov. 30 — West Point, Nebraska; Nielsen Center.

If you need to renew your private pesticide applicator license in 2024, please attend the whole program. Even though this training is being offered in 2023, you will not lose a year of certification on your license. Please note that this training will only offer recertification of private pesticide licenses. Those needing initial training will need to attend one of the other training courses offered in early 2024.

The cost for the program is $10 if you are only attending the CCC program. If you are being recertified for your private pesticide applicator license, the cost will be $70. The additional $60 is the same as you would pay to be recertified at a traditional private pesticide applicator training.

Pre-registration is available online here https://go.unl.edu/2023CCC.

For more information, contact your local Nebraska Extension office.



Extension’s Successful Farmer Series Will Dig into Cropping Systems Hot Topics

Crop producers will learn about several hot topics from university and industry experts at Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County’s “Successful Farmer Series.” Sessions will be held on Thursdays, Nov. 30, Dec. 7 and Jan. 4 at the Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County conference rooms, 444 Cherrycreek Rd., Suite A, Lincoln. Each session will also be livestreamed and archived on YouTube. All sessions will be 9-11:30 a.m.

Scheduled topics are:
    Thursday, Nov. 30 — Ag Policy and Marketing
    Thursday, Dec. 7 — Weather and Climate Projections, Cover Crops and Farmer Panel
    Thursday, Jan. 4 — Nitrogen Management Tools, Water Quality and Nitrate Management

Multiple sessions and topics allow producers to pick the topics most relevant to them and their operation. Cost is $10 per session or $20 for the entire series. Refreshments will be provided. No cost to watch online.

Each topic will feature two to three speakers from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln or related organizations. Industry experts are invited to attend and address more specific questions or interact with attendees during the breaks.

The Dec. 7 session will include a panel of local producers discussing innovations they are exploring.

The Successful Farmer Series is also a great opportunity to visit with other area producers in attendance.

Please register at least two days before each session. More information and registration link is online. You may also register by contacting Karen Wedding at 402-441-7180. Pay at the event with check (payable to Lancaster County Extension), cash or credit/debit card (small additional fee).

CCA credits will be available at relevant sessions for certified crop advisors attending in person.



Midwest Dairy Seeks Applicants for Nebraska Dairy Ambassador Program

The Dairy Ambassador Program is an educational and leadership opportunity for young people who are passionate about dairy. Dairy Ambassadors have the opportunity to connect with consumers and share dairy’s story while networking with their peers and industry professionals.

Dairy Ambassadors will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, including connecting with consumers at regional events, the state fair, youth educational presentations, and attending dairy industry meetings as well as participating in leadership opportunities. The program is designed to shape future dairy champions who will promote the dairy community and support Midwest Dairy’s mission to give consumers an excellent dairy experience.

To be considered for the Dairy Ambassador Program, applicants must be enrolled as a Nebraska High School Junior (11th Grade) or Senior (12th Grade) during the current year of application, or enrolled full-time in a Nebraska post-secondary school for the duration of the appointment. All applicants must be able to communicate effectively through writing and speaking and possess a passion for dairy. This is a one-year program, running from January through December 2024. During their service, ambassadors will receive stipends and have approved expenses covered upon participation. After successful completion of the one-year program, Dairy Ambassadors are eligible to apply for a $1,000 educational scholarship.

Students can apply at www.MidwestDairy.com, in the For Young Dairy Leaders tab/section, under Ambassador Program then select Nebraska. More details can be found on the webpage plus the online application (APPLY NOW) is at the bottom of the program page. Online applications are due DECEMBER 15, 2023. Selected ambassadors will be notified by JANUARY 10, 2024.

If you have questions, please contact Dawn Eckel, Nebraska Dairy Ambassador Coordinator, at dklabenes16@gmail.com or Tracy J. Behnken, Farmer Relations and Communications Manager, at tbehnken@midwestdairy.com or 531-207-4291.



NEBRASKA CHICKENS AND EGGS

Nebraska egg production during October totaled 208 million eggs, up from 162 million in 2022. October egg production per 100 layers was 2,549 eggs, compared to 2,346 eggs in 2022. All layers in Nebraska during October 2023 totaled 8.15 million, up from 6.89 million the previous year, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Iowa: Iowa egg production during October 2023 was 1.18 billion eggs, up 13 percent from the previous October, according to the latest Chickens and Eggs report from the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. The average number of all layers on hand during October 2023 was 45.2 million, up 13 percent from last year. Eggs per 100 layers for October 2023 was 2,604, down slightly from a year ago.

U.S. October Egg Production Up 4 Percent
United States egg production totaled 9.55 billion during October 2023, up 4 percent from last year. Production included 8.23 billion table eggs, and 1.32 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.22 billion were broiler-type and 98.0 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during October 2023 totaled 389 million, up 3 percent from last year. October egg production per 100 layers was 2,452 eggs, up slightly from October 2022.
                                    
Total layers in the United States on November 1, 2023 totaled 390 million, up 3 percent from last year. The 390 million layers consisted of 322 million layers producing table or market type eggs, 63.4 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.68 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on November 1, 2023, averaged 79.1 eggs per 100 layers, up slightly from November 1, 2022.



Nebraska Ethanol Board Dec. 4th Board Meeting to Be Held in Lincoln

The Nebraska Ethanol Board will meet in Lincoln at 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 4. The meeting will be at Hyatt Place (600 Q Street) in meeting room I-II. Highlights of the agenda include:
    Budget Report
    Fuel Retailer Update
    Nebraska Corn Board Update
    Renewable Fuels Nebraska Update
    Marketing Programs
    Technical & Research Updates
    State and Federal Legislation
    Ethanol Plant Reports
    Election of Board Officers for 2024

This agenda contains all items to come before the Board except those items of an emergency nature. Nebraska Ethanol Board meetings are open to the public and also published on the public calendar.

The Nebraska Ethanol Board works to ensure strong public policy and consumer support for biofuels. Since 1971, the independent state agency has designed and managed programs to expand production, market access, worker safety and technology innovation, including recruitment of producers interested in developing conventional ethanol, as well as bio-products from the ethanol platform. For more information, visit www.ethanol.nebraska.gov.



USDA Announces United Sorghum Checkoff Program Board Appointments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the appointment of six members to serve on the United Sorghum Checkoff Program’s Board of Directors. Five of the appointees will serve three-year terms and one member will serve a two-year term. The terms of the members appointed to three-year terms start December 2023 and end December 2026. The term of the member appointed to a two-year term starts immediately.

Newly appointed members are:
    James Jay Haase, Eads, Colo., At-Large Member
    Ethan J. Miller, Columbia, Mo., At-Large Member
    Tracy Zink, Indianola, Neb., At-Large Member
    David K. Schemm, Sharon Springs, Kan., Kansas Member
    Brian Adamek, Victoria, Texas, Texas Member
    Scott Irlbeck, Lubbock, Texas, Texas Member (2-Year Term)

The 13-member United Sorghum Checkoff Program Board is composed of nine sorghum farmers who represent the three states with the largest sorghum production – Kansas, Texas, and Oklahoma – and four at-large national representatives. More information about the board is available on the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) United Sorghum Checkoff Program webpage and on the board’s website, sorghumcheckoff.com.



Fareway and Iowa Farm Bureau donate over 57,000 lbs. of ground protein to Iowa food banks

Fareway Stores Inc. and Iowa Farm Bureau partnered together to donate 57,863 lbs. of ground protein to food banks across Iowa in the ‘Meat the Need’ campaign.

The donation took place on Nov. 8 at the Food Bank of Iowa in Des Moines. Fareway CEO Reynolds Cramer, Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson, and food bank representatives spoke on the importance of local food donations, food insecurity challenges and the important partnerships through the ‘Meat the Need’ campaign.

“Growing and raising the food that nourishes and sustains our communities is a source of tremendous pride for Iowa farmers,” says Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson. “Unfortunately, food insecurity is a challenge that impacts families in communities across the state, which is why Iowa Farm Bureau has proudly joined Fareway to help ‘Meat the Need’ by filling a semitruck trailer with lean, high-protein ground meat for statewide distribution to help our neighbors during a time of need.”

“We are proud to partner with Iowa Farm Bureau, the Food Bank of Iowa, and the Iowa Food Bank Association to help food banks across Iowa,” said Jeff Cook, Vice President of Market Operations for Fareway Stores. “Thank you to our generous customers for participating, Iowa stores and meat markets, and our partners at Iowa Farm Bureau for helping secure lean protein for local food banks going into the holiday seasons.”



October Milk Production in the United States down 0.5 Percent

Milk production in the United States during October totaled 18.7 billion pounds, down 0.5 percent from October 2022. Production per cow in the United States averaged 1,997 pounds for October, 1 pound below October 2022. The number of milk cows on farms in the United States was 9.37 million head, 42,000 head less than October 2022, and 6,000 head less than September 2023.

Iowa:  Milk production in Iowa during October 2023 totaled 494 million pounds, unchanged from the previous October according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Milk Production report. The average number of milk cows during October, at 240,000 head, was unchanged from last month but up 1,000 from October 2022. Monthly production per cow averaged 2,060 pounds, down 5 pounds from last October.



USDA to Add Separate Premium Category for Hogs Raised in Compliance with Animal Confinement Legislation
 
Starting today (Monday), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will institute a separate category within its National Weekly Direct Swine Non-Carcass Merit Premium report. This category specifically addresses hogs raised in compliance with animal confinement laws (ACL), such as California’s Proposition 12 and Massachusetts’ Question 3. Those voter-approved initiatives require pork sold in those states to be from hogs born to sows raised in housing that meets the states’ standards. Other states also have laws restricting the use of certain sow housing.
 
Under the Livestock Mandatory Reporting (LMR) Program, USDA had published information on non-carcass merit premiums paid for ACL-compliant hogs under an “other” category that also included other non-carcass characteristics, such as antibiotic-free.
 
Recently, the number of ACL-compliant merit premiums submitted under LMR was sufficient to warrant a separate category. The addition of the category for ACL-compliant hogs will provide pork industry stakeholders with more information when making informed production and marketing decisions.



EPA Evaluating Air Reporting From Livestock Farms
 
The U.S. EPA published an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to solicit comments and information on reinstating the reporting requirements for livestock farms under the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act (EPCRA). The agency is seeking comments under five broad categories:
 •    Health impacts
•    Implementation challenges
•    Costs and benefits
•    Small farm definition and reporting exemption
•    National report on animal waste air emissions
 
Additionally, the agency seeks input on emission impacts on local communities in close proximity to farms, and the benefits and challenges associated with the development of a national database of livestock farm production.
 
This development comes amidst the backdrop of ongoing advocacy against onerous reporting and permitting requirements for livestock farmers. After a series of legal battles dating back to the early 2000s, Congress, with overwhelming bipartisan support in 2017, passed the Farm Act. This act exempted livestock farms from mandatory reporting under the Superfund Law and relieved them from reporting to the Coast Guard's national response center and state and local emergency response authorities under EPCRA.
 
Following a lawsuit filed by environmental and animal rights extremists, EPA agreed to consider rescinding the reporting exemption under EPCRA and imposing a requirement that farmers file reports on routine emissions from manure. Rather than undertake those actions, today’s notice is an acknowledgment that the exemption from reporting will remain in place; instead, EPA will seek to further study the issue. This comes as EPA is expected to release early next year its long-awaited draft Emissions Estimating Methodologies developed under the National Air Emissions Monitoring Study (NAEMS). NAEMS was undertaken following the air consent agreements the industry negotiated with EPA in 2006. The data collected was transmitted to EPA in 2010.



NCGA Joins Letter Expressing Concern with Ad Hoc Disaster Relief Changes

NCGA and 16 corn state affiliated associations recently joined with over 140 allied national, regional, and state commodity organizations in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack relaying their concerns with the design of the Emergency Relief Program for 2022.
 
While the group expressed appreciation for the allocation of $3.74 billion in much needed ERP assistance to agricultural producers impacted by a wide range of natural disasters in 2022, the signatories said recent changes have raised concerns among farmers.

Like previous programs, crop loss payments are generally calculated and factored using crop insurance coverage levels. However, new this year is a “progressive factor” that reduces the disaster assistance for many eligible growers based on the size of the losses. USDA also changed the method used to incorporate producer-paid insurance premiums.

The letter took issue with these two changes.

“In the case of the progressive payment factor, we oppose a policy that delivers the least amount of benefit to those who have lost the most outside of the payment limits provided in statute,” the letter said. “While we appreciate the funding restraints under which ERP 2022 was developed, we believe that USDA should instead aim to provide more equitable support for losses of all magnitudes. This can be achieved by using a single, uniform factor, as USDA has done in the past.”
 
Growers with questions about the Emergency Relief Program should visit their local Farm Service Agency office for more information about the disaster programs.



What's Next is Here: The Era of More – Pioneer® Brand Z-Series Soybeans

Pioneer is pleased to announce the newest series of soybean seed – Pioneer® brand Z-Series soybeans. They will be available in limited volumes for the 2024 planting season, with larger commercial volumes available in 2025.

“This Z-Series class of soybeans builds on 50 years of soybean breeding at Pioneer,” says Liz Knutson, Pioneer U.S. Soybean Marketing Lead. “During this 50-year history, we have introduced five soybean ‘series’ – B, M, Y, T and A – that each signaled trait technology innovations and transitions and set a new standard for Pioneer soybean performance.”

Pioneer® brand Z-Series soybeans represent the largest advancement class of soybeans in history and will offer farmers:
    More exclusive varieties that will deliver breakthrough genetic gains generated by our largest advancement class
    More disease tolerance with improved scores in SDS, brown stem rot, white mold and iron deficiency chlorosis
    More agronomic advantages with a significant expansion of Peking and Phytophthora stack varieties
    More yield from our best-ever class of soybean germplasm

Farmers will soon see the step change in yield potential and agronomics with Z-Series soybeans. More details will be shared at 2024 Commodity Classic.

Friday November 17 Cattle on Feed Report + Ag News

NEBRASKA CATTLE ON FEED DOWN 2%

Nebraska feedlots, with capacities of 1,000 or more head, contained 2.54 million cattle on feed on November 1, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. This inventory was down 2% from last year. Placements during October totaled 610,000 head, up 4% from 2022. Fed cattle marketings for the month of October totaled 480,000 head, up 8% from last year. Other disappearance during October totaled 10,000 head, unchanged from last year.



IOWA CATTLE ON FEED REPORT

Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in Iowa feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 640,000 head on November 1, 2023, according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Cattle on Feed report. This was unchanged from October but up 2 percent from November 1, 2022. Iowa feedlots with a capacity of less than 1,000 head had 475,000 head on feed, unchanged from last month but down 2 percent from last year. Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in all Iowa feedlots totaled 1,115,000 head, unchanged from last month and  unchanged from last year.

Placements of cattle and calves in Iowa feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head during October 2023 totaled 83,000 head, down 6 percent from September and down 18 percent from October 2022. Feedlots with a capacity of less than 1,000 head placed 69,000 head, up 8 percent from September and up 3 percent from October 2022. Placements for all feedlots in Iowa totaled 152,000 head, unchanged from September but down 10 percent from October 2022.

Marketings of fed cattle from Iowa feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head during October 2023 totaled 82,000 head, up 22 percent from September but down 8 percent from October 2022. Feedlots with a capacity of less than 1,000 head marketed 66,000 head, up 120 percent from September and up 47 percent from October 2022. Marketings for all feedlots in Iowa were 148,000 head, up 53 percent from September and up 10 percent from October 2022. Other disappearance from all feedlots in Iowa totaled 4,000 head.



United States Cattle on Feed Up 2 Percent

Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.9 million head on November 1, 2023. The inventory was 2 percent above November 1, 2022.

by State       (1,000 hd  -  % Nov 1 '22)
Colorado ......:       1,030           96        
Iowa .............:       640            102         
Kansas ..........:      2,520          108       
Nebraska ......:      2,540           98        
Texas ............:      2,900          101     

Placements in feedlots during October totaled 2.16 million head, 4 percent above 2022. Net placements were 2.11 million head. During October, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 550,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 470,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 465,000 head, 800-899 pounds were 394,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 205,000 head, and 1,000 pounds and greater were 80,000 head.

by State   (1,000 hd  - % Oct '22
Colorado ......:      200           114        
Iowa .............:       83            82          
Kansas ..........:      440           107         
Nebraska ......:      610           104         
Texas ............:      440           100          

Marketings of fed cattle during October totaled 1.76 million head, 3 percent below 2022. Other disappearance totaled 55,000 head during October, 2 percent above 2022.

by State  (1,000 hd  -  % Oct '22)  
Colorado ......:      155            91         
Iowa .............:       82             92         
Kansas ..........:      410            95        
Nebraska ......:      480           108      
Texas ............:      375            96           



USDA invites agriculture producers to respond online to the 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Survey

Today, the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) mailed survey codes to a selected sample of irrigators across the 50 states with an invitation to respond online to the 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Survey.

The survey is a special study to the 2022 Census of Agriculture and provides the only comprehensive dataset of irrigation activities and water use across American farms, ranches, and horticultural operations. Producer input through this survey will aid USDA’s efforts to promote efficient irrigation practices and long-term sustainability of water resources across the United States.

The survey will be mailed in phases, with paper questionnaires following in January. Producers need only to respond once, whether securely online or by mail. The online option offers timesaving features ideal for busy producers. All responses are due Feb. 15, 2024.

“Water is arguably the most important resource for agriculture and horticulture operations,” said NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “This survey is an opportunity to provide data that will influence policy decisions that have a tremendous impact on the industry for years to come.”

Responding is more convenient than ever due to the USDA NASS Online Respondent Portal at www.agcounts.usda.gov where producers can view and complete NASS surveys, view historical reports, and access other resources.

“I strongly encourage all farmers, no matter how large or small their operation, to promptly complete and return their questionnaire. This is your opportunity to share your voice, uplift the value and showcase the uniqueness of American agriculture,” said Administrator Hamer.

Responding to the 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Survey is required by law under Title 7 USC 2204(g) Public Law 105-113. The same law requires NASS to keep all information confidential, to use the data for statistical purposes only, and to publish in aggregate form to prevent disclosing the identity of any individual producer or farm operation. NASS will release the data on Nov. 14, 2024, at www.nass.usda.gov.

To learn more, visit www.nass.usda.gov/agcensus. On the website, producers and other data users can access frequently asked questions, past ag census data, other special study information, and more. For highlights of these and the latest information, follow NASS on X @usda_nass.



New resource offers sow management considerations for Prop 12 related changes

Decisions around sow barn remodeling, reducing sow herd inventory, and adjusting gilt flow are some of the challenges U.S. pork producers face as they explore and consider options to make farms compliant with California’s Proposition 12 requirements. A new resource from Iowa Pork Industry Center offers information for producers who plan to transition their own production.

Iowa State University extension swine specialist Matt Romoser is one of the authors. He said the goal for the publication, Sow Management Considerations with California Proposition 12, was to provide some considerations for producers on how to manage the breeding herd under the guidelines of California Prop 12.

"This fact sheet includes what we know today on how to manage sows under these regulations," he said. "So, whether you're a sow farm manager with no group housing experience, or an owner looking to the future and considering retrofitting or building new, it can be a helpful resource."

Chris Rademacher, associate director of the Iowa Pork Industry Center and ISU extension swine veterinarian; and Laura Greiner, director of Iowa Pork Industry Center and animal science assistant professor are the other authors of this publication.

The four-page publication IPIC 207 is available at no charge from the ISU Extension store https://store.extension.iastate.edu/Product/16900.



Powell and Covington Recognized for Starting Planter University

Two members of the Digital Ag Innovation Lab at Iowa State University were recently recognized for creating a new planter-based education program for the crop industry.

Ben Covington and Levi Powell, both agricultural engineers, were the masterminds behind “Planter University.” First offered in 2022, the program saw initial success and was offered again in 2023 and will return with a new program Feb. 5-9, 2024.

Planter University is a brand-neutral learning opportunity that helps farmers and the industry better understand and optimize their planting equipment.

For their effort, Covington and Powell were awarded the Programming Innovation Award during the annual Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources professional development conference, Oct. 17 in Ames.

The two were nominated for the award by field agronomist Meaghan Anderson and Rebecca Vittetoe. Both are also instructors for Planter University.

“Ben and Levi are the epitome of innovation in extension and outreach educational programming,” said Anderson. “Even without a direct extension and outreach appointment, these two worked with the crops team to meet the needs of Iowa farmers and ag service providers.”

With greater variability in weather, farmers are planting their crops in a shorter window than ever before, which has moved many farmers toward larger equipment and a heavier reliance on technology, making planter optimization all the more important.

Collaborating with the crops team, Covington and Powell provided key expertise to Planter University, a one-day workshop offered in five locations around Iowa that provided hands-on training for farmers and their advisers that focused on maintenance, technology and important setup considerations for adjusting planters to each field’s environment.

Over 90% of survey respondents felt like they had a high or very high ability to make numerous planter adjustments that would improve crop emergence, plant stand, and ultimately, yield after attending the workshop.

“Their expertise and creativity brought a new kind of program to life that was needed and well-received by our clientele,” said Rebecca Vittetoe.

Learn more about the 2024 Planter University and register for one of the sessions at: https://www.aep.iastate.edu/planter/. 



Land O’Lakes President and CEO, Beth Ford Named to Inaugural TIME100 Climate List

TIME named Land O’Lakes, Inc. President and CEO Beth Ford to the inaugural TIME100 Climate list, recognizing the 100 most innovative leaders driving business climate action.

“Thank you, TIME, for including Land O'Lakes on the list. It's an important recognition that agriculture can be a powerful climate solution,” said Beth Ford, Land O’Lakes President and CEO. “Our Truterra team is doing incredible things alongside our farmer-owners.”

To assemble the list, TIME's editors and reporters fielded nominations and recommendations from industry leaders and partner organizations like Global Optimism and The B Team, as well as TIMECO2’s Advisory Council, then worked to assess the candidates on a variety of factors, including recency of action, measurable results, and influence.  

More information on how Land O’Lakes is creating a sustainable future, ensuring a safe and plentiful food supply, and ensuring vibrant communities is available at www.landolakesinc.com.

About Land O'Lakes, Inc.
Land O’Lakes, Inc., one of America’s premier agribusiness and food companies, is a member-owned cooperative with industry-leading operations that span the spectrum from agricultural production to consumer foods. With 2022 annual sales of $19 billion, Land O’Lakes is one of the nation’s largest cooperatives, ranking 213 on the Fortune 500. Building on a legacy of more than 100 years of operation, Land O’Lakes today operates some of the most respected brands in agribusiness and food production including Land O’Lakes Dairy Foods, Animal Nutrition, WinField United and Truterra. The company does business in all 50 states and more than 60 countries. Land O’Lakes, Inc. corporate headquarters are located in Arden Hills, Minnesota.

About Truterra, LLC  
Truterra is a leading sustainability solutions provider, advancing and connecting sustainability efforts throughout the food system at scale – from farmers to ag retailers to value chain collaborators including food and fiber companies. Truterra positions farmers for success by providing them tools and resources to establish a stewardship baseline, track progress on every field they farm, access conservation resources, and prepare for ecosystem services market opportunities. The Truterra network brings together the best in agricultural technology and precision conservation to drive sustainability across the food system, feeding people, safeguarding the planet, and supporting farmer livelihoods. Truterra was launched in 2016 by Land O'Lakes, Inc., a member-owned cooperative that spans the spectrum from agricultural production to consumer foods.



NMPF Statement on Farm Bill Extension in Funding Law
Statement from Jim Mulhern, President & CEO

“We commend House and Senate Agriculture Committee Chairs Glenn Thompson and Debbie Stabenow, as well as Ranking Members David Scott and John Boozman, for their bipartisan work to finalize this farm bill extension as part of the congressional spending agreement President Biden signed today.

“Along with continuing critical programs for dairy farmers, the legislation allows the Dairy Margin Coverage program to continue operating without the uncertainty of a potential disruption. DMC is an important and effective safety net for dairy farmers nationwide. This legislation includes the 2019 production history update as part of the program, and we look forward to 2024 DMC sign-up in the coming weeks.

“With this bill passed, we stand ready to work closely with the House and Senate Agriculture Committees to deliver a strong, five-year farm bill as swiftly as possible."



Statement by Mark McHargue, Nebraska Farm Bureau President, Regarding the Farm Bill Extension

“Every few years, Nebraska farmers and ranchers have the opportunity to work with Congress to address one of the most important pieces of legislation affecting agriculture, the Farm Bill. While our preference is always to get a new Farm Bill done on time, it is more important to get it right. We appreciate the extension of the Farm Bill but encourage Congress to continue its work and pass a five-year Farm Bill to provide the needed support for farm and ranch families. Nebraska Farm Bureau thanks all five members of Nebraska’s Congressional Delegation for their tireless efforts to ensure a solid agricultural safety-net, working-lands conservation programs, disaster assistance programs, and everything else that makes a Farm Bill work for Nebraska’s farm and ranch families.”



AFBF Appreciates EPA Seeking Farmer Input

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on EPA soliciting comments on reinstating burdensome reporting requirements for farms under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA).

“AFBF appreciates EPA for taking the time to collect more information before proposing a rule that would require farmers to struggle through additional layers of red tape to raise livestock. The original purpose of the law was to ensure people who emit hazardous chemicals submit reports to local emergency responders - it was never intended to govern farms.

“We look forward to submitting comments and we’re encouraged that Administrator Regan is giving farmers and ranchers the opportunity to make their concerns known before deciding on a final rule.”



Group Studying Lamb Insurance Program

Watts and Associates has announced four listening sessions in which the company will solicit input on a potential federal lamb insurance program. The company has been contracted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Risk Management Agency to evaluate the feasibility of offering subsidized production insurance for American lamb producers.

Three in-person listening sessions are planned: Dec. 7 in Belle Fourche, S.D.; Dec. 9 in San Angelo, Texas; and during the American Sheep Industry Association Annual Convention in Denver as the group has been invited to participate in the Lamb Council meeting on Jan. 12. A virtual session might also be conducted, but details for such a session have yet to be determined.

The form this insurance might take – if it is indeed feasible to implement – has not been determined. The company is interested in soliciting input from all facets of the American sheep industry to determine if the insurance might cover predation losses, disease, cost of gain, margins, rate of gain, price fluctuations or more. The results and recommendations from the study will be submitted to RMA and the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation for consideration.

 

Dairy Management Inc.'s Lisa McComb appointed chair-elect of Animal Agriculture Alliance board

Today, the Animal Agriculture Alliance announced new upcoming board leadership following its fall board meeting, held Nov. 7 in Washington, D.C. Lisa McComb, Dairy Management Inc., was elected as chair-elect. Tom Super, National Chicken Council, was appointed as treasurer.

McComb is the senior vice president of communications at Dairy Management Inc. (DMI). She will take the reins for a two-year term as chairperson from current board chair Derek Yancey, president of Morning Fresh Farms, beginning in January 2025. At DMI, McComb is accountable for multi-stakeholder proactive and responsive media relations and storytelling for the dairy community and consumers. She also leverages real-time insights and intelligence to take action on and prepare for key dairy issues. DMI joined the Alliance board in 2016 and has been represented by McComb since 2018.

Super is the senior vice president of communications at the National Chicken Council (NCC). Super’s executive officer responsibilities will take effect in January 2024, as he takes over for current treasurer Joel Brandenberger, retiring president and CEO of the National Turkey Federation. In his role at NCC, Super is responsible for day-to-day media relations, media outreach, social media management, and strategic communications planning to supplement NCC’s legislative, regulatory, and public affairs efforts. National Chicken Council has been on the Alliance board since 1999 and has been represented by Super for more than ten years.

“The Animal Agriculture Alliance Board of Directors represent the breadth of our membership and provide strategic direction for our programs and initiatives,” said Hannah Thompson-Weeman, Alliance president and CEO. “Lisa and Tom have served on the Alliance board for several years and have been incredible champions for the organization. I’m confident in their leadership abilities and look forward to working with them more closely in these new roles.”

In addition to new board leadership, several board seats have been renewed through 2026. The following organization seats were renewed:
    American Farm Bureau Federation, represented by RJ Layher, Director, Government Affairs
    American Sheep Industry Association, represented by Amy Hendrickson, Animal Health, Science and Research Programs Manager
    Cargill, represented by Nick Wolfenden, PhD, Sustainable Animal Welfare Director – Global
    Elanco Animal Health, represented by Colleen Parr Dekker, Executive Director, Global Corporate Communications
    Farm Journal, represented by Dustin Johansen, Senior Vice President, Livestock Division
    Genus PIC, represented by Srinu Reddy, PhD, Senior Manager of Regulatory Sciences and Compliance
    Morning Fresh Farms, represented by Derek Yancey, President
    National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, represented by Rebecca Barnett, Director of Animal Health and Food Safety Policy
    National Chicken Council, represented by Tom Super, Senior Vice President, Communications
    United Egg Producers, represented by Oscar Garrison, Senior Vice President of Food Safety

The complete list of Alliance board members and organization representatives is available on the Alliance website at www.animalagalliance.org/about/board.

Thursday November 16 Ag News

 NDA Announces 2023-24 Nebraska Ag Youth Council Members

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) develops and supports the next generation of ag leaders through the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council (NAYC). NAYC is a group of college students working together to share their passion and knowledge about agriculture with young people across the state. NDA is proud to sponsor NAYC and announce the 2023-2024 Council members.  

“NAYC has a long-standing tradition of leadership excellence in Nebraska agriculture,” said NDA Director Sherry Vinton. “NAYC members are skilled, talented, and knowledgeable. They are committed to learning as much as they can about Nebraska agriculture and sharing their knowledge and passion with others. I look forward to working with these Council members as they grow their leadership skills.”

NAYC members coordinate and participate in a wide range of ag-focused activities and events throughout the year. They visit elementary schools to talk about where food comes from, take students on farm tours to experience life on a farm, and visit with high school students about career opportunities in agriculture. The primary focus of NAYC is to coordinate the annual Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute (NAYI), a five-day summer conference with speakers, workshops, and networking opportunities for high school juniors and seniors.

NAYI is in its 53rd year and is the longest running event of its kind in the nation. It is made possible through the donations of many generous sponsors.

Here is a list of the 2023-2024 NAYC leadership and their hometowns:
• Head Counselors: Levi Schiller (Scribner); and Kaleb Senff (Axtell);
• President: Madison Kreifels (Syracuse);
• Secretary: Logan Hafer (Long Pine);
• Vice President of Communications and Social Media: Jessie Lamp (Ashland);
• Vice President of Alumni Relations: Emma Snoberger (Aurora);
• Vice President of NAYI Improvement and Promotions: Kailey Ziegler (Waco);
• Vice President of Youth Outreach: Seth Wert (Hordville); and
• Vice President of Sponsorship: Jenna Knake (Syracuse).

Additional NAYC members include: Laura Albro, Bayard; Brie Bruns, Pender; Caleb Burnside, Stapleton; Vickie Ference, Ord; Ben Kamrath, Columbus; Ethan Kreikemeier, West Point; Kendra Loseke, Blair; Caleb Most, Ogallala; Kendall Prior, Imperial; Conner Snyder, McCook; Evan Svanda, Nehawka; and Carleigh Tietz, Norfolk.

“Teaching youth about the value of agriculture is an important part of our work,” said Christin Kamm, NDA Director of Communications and NAYC Advisor. “The student leaders who serve on NAYC are some of the best and brightest in the industry. They are dedicated to promoting Nebraska agriculture and providing valuable insight and advice to young Nebraskans about the many different careers available in the ag industry.”

To learn more, visit NAYC’s website at https://nda.nebraska.gov/nayi/nayc.html or search for Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute on Facebook.



Rural Mainstreet Economy Slumps to Lowest Level in Three Years

For a third straight month, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) sank below growth neutral, according to the November survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy.

Overall: The region’s overall reading for November fell to 40.4 from 44.4 in October and 49.5 in September. The index ranges between 0 and 100, with a reading of 50.0 representing growth neutral.

“This is the weakest recorded reading in more than three years, or since June 2020, shortly after the beginning of the pandemic, and points to weaker farm and non-farm economies,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.

Farming and ranching land prices: The region’s farmland price index climbed to 66.7 from October’s 55.6. “Creighton’s survey continues to point to solid, but slowing, growth in farmland prices as farm commodity prices weakened,” said Goss.

Farm equipment sales: The farm equipment-sales index for November increased slightly to a weak 49.5 from October’s 48.0. “This is the fifth time the past 6 months that the index has fallen below growth neutral. Higher borrowing costs are having a negative impact on the purchases of farm equipment,” said Goss.

According to the International Trade Administration, the export of agriculture products from the region declined from $9.8 billion for the first nine months of 2022 to $8.6 billion for the same period in 2023 for a 12.7% slump.

Below are the state reports:
Nebraska: The Nebraska RMI for November fell to 39.7 from 44.3 in October. The state’s farmland-price index for November climbed to 64.1 from 54.3 in October. Nebraska’s November new-hiring index slumped to 47.6 from October’s 49.8. According to the International Trade Administration, the export of agriculture products from Nebraska declined from $981.4 million for the first nine months of 2022 to $470.0 million for the same period in 2023 for a 52.1% slump.

Iowa: Iowa’s November RMI slumped to 32.4 from 43.5 in October. Iowa’s farmland-price index for November soared to 62.0 from October’s 45.9. Iowa’s new-hiring index for November increased to 45.1 from 44.2 in October. According to the International Trade Administration, the export of agriculture products from Iowa declined from $1.7 billion for the first nine months of 2022 to $1.2 billion for the same period in 2023 for a 29.8% slump.

The survey represents an early snapshot of the economy of rural agriculturally and energy-dependent portions of the nation. The Rural Mainstreet Index is a unique index covering 10 regional states, focusing on approximately 200 rural communities with an average population of 1,300. The index provides the most current real-time analysis of the rural economy. Goss and Bill McQuillan, former Chairman of the Independent Community Banks of America, created the monthly economic survey and launched it in January 2006.



Upcoming Nebraska Farmers Union Convention Agenda and Highlights Announced
December 8-9, 2023
Divots Conference Center, 4200 W. Norfolk Avenue, Norfolk, NE 68701

"Proudly Serving Family Farm, Ranch, & Rural Families Since 1913" is the theme for the 110th annual Nebraska Farmers Union (NeFU) state convention.  John Hansen, NeFU President said, “We have a solid meat and potatoes program with 20 speakers addressing a wide range of topics.

We will hear from two of our states top USDA officials Friday morning. USDA NRCS State Conservationist Rob Lawson will report on the unprecedented additional funding that is available for conservation programs from the “Inflation Reduction Act.”  Tim Divis, USDA NE FSA Executive Director and Roy Stoltenberg, Chairman of the State Committee will report on FSA programs, challenges, and opportunities.

Friday noon Mayor Josh Moenning will provide the “Welcome to Norfolk” and Aaron Shier, NFU Government Relations Director will report on National Farmers Union (NFU) legislative issues.

Friday afternoon, members will hear from Chad Spohn about the exciting new “Norfolk Crush Plant” soybean processing facility. Dr. Eric Hunt, Climate Resilience Extension Educator will report on new climate-based tools that can be used for agricultural decision making. Aaron Lapointe, Senior Director of Business Operations for Ho-Chunk Inc. will discuss Nebraska Tribal agricultural initiatives.   

Jeff Kippley, NFU Vice President and Tom Giessel, NFU Amateur Historian will keynote the Friday evening banquet. This year’s President’s Award will be presented to Kay Walter and Tim Rinne of Lincoln for their pioneering efforts in urban agriculture.

Saturday morning programs includes a report from NeFU Vice President Vern Jantzen, a report from John Liewer, Lead Wind Energy Technology Instructor from Northeast Community College about their Wind Energy Technology training program, and remarks from John Berge, USDA Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs.

The final morning program will be “Unscrambling the Extended Farm Bill” with NFU Vice President Jeff Kippley, NFU Government Relations Director Aaron Shier, and USDA Deputy Administrator for Farm Programs John Berge.

NeFU President John Hansen will present his State of the Union report Saturday noon. Schedule permitting, Rep. Mike Flood is invited to provide noon luncheon remarks.

Hansen noted, “Delegates will set our NeFU state policy, elect our state president, elect two members to our NeFU Foundation Board, two NeFU Board of Directors, and three delegates to National Farmers Union Convention to be held next March 10-12 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Our organization first started organizing farmer owned cooperatives in 1911 in Antelope County.  We are excited to be back in northeast Nebraska for our convention.”

NeFU Vice President Vern Jantzen will chair the 2023-2024 NeFU policy day that will be held Thursday, December 7 at 10:00 a.m. at the Divots Conference Center, and policy consideration Saturday afternoon.   

Registration is $35 and begins at 8:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday mornings.  Meals are separate. Convention begins at 9:00 a.m. Friday and 8:30 a.m. Saturday.  As always, all members and the public are welcome.  More information is available at:  www.nebraskafarmersunion.org or call (402) 476-8815.

For room reservations at the Norfolk Lodge & Suites, call (402) 379-3833. The NeFU Convention block room rate is $125 per night plus taxes and includes a complimentary hot continental breakfast. The NeFU convention block reservation registration deadline is November 22th. Room rates after the deadline may vary.



PROJECT TO ASSEMBLE GLOBAL AG DATA ON POTASSIUM DEFICIENCIES

Deficiencies in potassium, an essential nutrient for plants, may be hampering many cropping systems around the world. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the International Fertilizer Association have therefore begun a joint initiative to fill in the knowledge gap about the extent and severity of potassium deficiency. The two-year project will compile and analyze a comprehensive inventory of global data on potassium for major crop systems around the world.

With that data and analysis in hand, countries will be better able to understand and address their potassium-related crop challenges, which remain poorly understood in many crop-growing regions. That progress can help advance the crop yields needed to meet the world’s growing food demand.

“This collaborative project will provide essential input to national agricultural research and extension programs on how to improve crop production through better nutrient management and fertilizer recommendation,” said Patricio Grassini, professor of agronomy and horticulture at Nebraska and one of the project’s principal investigators. “The project ultimately can bring benefits to a wide range of stakeholders, including farmers, researchers, policymakers and the agri-food sector.”

Walter Carciochi, a postdoctoral research associate in agronomy and horticulture at Nebraska, is coordinating the project’s outreach to a wide range of leading researchers in multiple countries to compile the needed data.

“The current project will use a variety of methods to diagnose potassium deficiencies, including on-farm nutrient balances, soil and plant analyses, and potassium omission trials,” Carciochi said. “Initially, the project will focus on main cropping systems in South and North America, South Asia, East Asia, Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. We suspect that we will find potassium to be limiting to crop yield and quality in many of these regions.”

Grassini said: “It does not happen every day that a wide range of researchers from the public and private sectors collaborate under the umbrella of a global project.”

As the data are assembled in a consistent format, Grassini said, one possibility is development of a “traffic light” guidance strategy, indicating the general level of potassium deficiency for individual countries or regions. Red would indicate the highest level of potassium concern; yellow, a lesser level; and green, minimal concern.

“IFA is very excited to collaborate with the UNL team led by Dr. Grassini on this global assessment of potassium limitation,” said Achim Dobermann, chief scientist with IFA, co-principal lead of the project, and a former professor of soil science and nutrient management at Nebraska. “This initiative starts not only from our interest as agronomists to help increase crop yields globally, but also as an opportunity from the fertilizer industry to identify new markets for potassium.”

Over the long term, Dobermann is concerned that the depletion level could result in the soil no longer meeting the potassium required by crops, necessitating the addition of fertilizers containing this essential nutrient. The research project is supported by seven major fertilizer companies: Nutrien, Mosaic, K+S, ICL, Anglo American, BHP and Arab Potash.

Grassini said that “this collaboration provides the opportunity for a helicopter view of the whole situation on potassium limitation, and where it is important to prioritize our investments in R&D in both the public and private sectors to overcome this limitation.”

The project is in its initial stage, with researchers gathering information to build the database, Carciochi said.

“We plan to create a thematic database on potassium in crop production to store all the information collected throughout our project and make it available via the Crop Nutrient Data platform,” he said.

The researchers are inviting colleagues at other universities, research institutes, analytical labs and companies to collaborate with the initiative by sharing any potassium-related data they may have — including farmer data, fertilizer trials, and soil and plant analyses.

“By putting all the data together, we will be able to determine if and when potassium is becoming the next barrier to increase crop yields,” Carciochi said.



NeCGA Call for At-Large Candidate Nominations

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association is seeking candidates for two at-large positions to serve on the board of directors. The at-large positions serve for a 3-year term. If you have an interest in furthering your service to Nebraska’s corn industry and are a current member of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association, you should consider this position.

As a candidate, your name will be placed on the ballot for delegates of the association to vote from during the upcoming Annual Meeting. The Annual Meeting is scheduled for January 22, 2024 in York, Neb. at the Holthus Convention Center (3130 Holen Ave, York, NE 68467). Candidates will have an opportunity to address the delegates with a short introduction of themselves and why they want to be active on the board of directors, thus plan to attend the Annual Meeting.

If elected to serve, the board of directors usually meet in person 2-3 times per year, with 2-3 conference calls as needed to conduct and address business of the board. The board of directors will meet following the Annual Meeting and lunch/speakers the same day – January 22.

If you have questions, or are interested in being a candidate, please call or email NeCGA Chairman Andy Jobman by January 16, 2024.  His number is (308) 529-0758 and email is jobman.agronomics@gmail.com.



Congressman Flood Announces 2023 Congressional App Challenge Winner

Today, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood announced Adam Khattak, a Lincoln Southwest High School student, as the Congressional App Challenge (CAC) winner for Nebraska’s First Congressional District.

For the challenge, Khattak coded an app called “AI Corn Disease Detector.” The application allows users to upload pictures of crops, and then the app would detect if they had any diseases.

“The CAC is meant to challenge middle and high school students to code and pursue careers in computer science, but it also brings forth great apps that can truly be helpful,” Rep. Flood said. “I’m very impressed with Adam’s work. Agriculture is Nebraska’s top industry, and applications like this one can be beneficial not only to our ag producers here but to farmers around the world.”

“It was an honor to participate in and to be named the winner for the First Congressional District App Challenge,” said Adam Khattak. “There’s a lot of cool innovation being done in ag technology, which inspired me to focus in this area. My app has a very practical purpose, and I hope to build on this success as I dig deeper into the field of coding for ag producers.”

“The corn disease detection application is an excellent and promising tool that can assist farmers and potentially manage different crop diseases. Adam has done a fantastic job and created something that can have an immediate impact,” wrote a member of the review committee. “It is so refreshing to see these young people being creative and innovative with something benefits the agriculture community.”

Adam’s submission was reviewed by a committee of professionals working in the start-up and digital community from the First Congressional District. Applications submitted through the contest are generally not immediately commercially available.



Gruss Named Forage Specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach

Shelby Gruss has joined Iowa State University Extension and Outreach as the state forage specialist.

Gruss will help educate Iowans about the value of forage production and address issues related to forage management, pests and diseases.

She grew up on her family’s row crop farm in northeast Indiana and earned her undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Gruss earned her Ph.D. in plant breeding and genetics from Purdue University in 2021 and completed her post doctorate at Michigan State last year.

"I look forward to helping Iowa farmers utilize forages in the best way that they can," she said. "There are so many different species that are classified as forages, and so many uses for forages, so no day will ever look the same."

Gruss also has teaching and research duties and said she looks forward to the many interactions she will have across campus and out in the field. She will work closely with the extension crops team and also the extension livestock specialists.

“I see forages playing a role in almost any type of farming system,” she said. “They can help build soil health, help reduce soil erosion, and help with water quality, and they’re a feed source for livestock.”

Josh Michel, field agronomist with ISU Extension and Outreach, said he’s pleased to welcome Gruss as she fills an important role for Iowa producers.

“As the state forage extension specialist, she will be able to collaborate with field specialists across the state to deliver forage-related programs and content to farmers and producers. This is something that field specialists have been looking forward to for quite some time and we’re very eager to work with her,” said Michel. “Her diverse background and experience will be extremely valuable as she begins to identify priority areas in forages across the state.”

While she has a passion for forages, Gruss is also an accomplished wheelchair basketball athlete, having played for the University of Illinois and the U.S. Women’s National Team.

She is currently the athlete representative for the U.S. Paralympic women’s basketball team, and is an avid fan of basketball in general.

She can be reached at sgruss@iastate.edu or 515-294-1360.



Registration Now Open for Practical Farmers of Iowa’s 2024 Annual Conference

Practical Farmers of Iowa invites all farmers, landowners and friends of farmers to come together for two days of learning and networking at the PFI 2024 Annual Conference, taking place Jan. 19-20 at the Iowa Events Center in downtown Des Moines, Iowa. Registration for the conference – one of PFI’s longest-running and most popular farmer-led events – is now open.

"I've been thrilled to see the growing interest in our annual conference,” says Liz Kolbe, PFI’s farmer-led education director. “Last year, we had a record-breaking crowd with over 1,000 farmers, landowners and friends of farmers who gathered to learn and discuss what matters most to them. We're excited to move to a bigger space in Des Moines where we can provide attendees an even better experience.”

Since PFI’s founding, the annual conference has been a keystone event for thousands of farmers to share knowledge, build connections and celebrate agriculture in Iowa. Attendees can look forward to 60-plus sessions and 80-plus exhibitors covering a range of agricultural topics, along with locally sourced snacks and meals throughout the conference.

New this year, PFI is offering a full track of Spanish-language sessions. “This will be a valuable networking and info-sharing event for Spanish speakers who farm, raise animals or are interested in growing food,” says Valeria Cano-Camacho, PFI’s Latino engagement coordinator.

Additional conference highlights:
• A Friday keynote by Keith Berns, one of the cover crop pioneers over the past 15 years. Keith will lay out the case for how soil health practices affect the bottom-line profitability of a farming operation.
• Session topics that span the agricultural spectrum, including conventional and organic field crop systems, livestock, fruit and vegetable production, conservation, on-farm habitat, urban farming, business planning, beginning farmers, farmland ownership and more.
• Three optional pre-conference short courses: “Grazing Intensive With Greg Judy”; “Soil Health and Fertility for Horticulture Production”; and “Getting Started With Organic Transition.” All courses begin Thursday, Jan. 18 in the afternoon and end the morning of Friday, Jan. 19 before the conference starts.
• An afternoon of storytelling by PFI farmers sharing skillfully narrated true stories.
• Presentation of PFI’s 2024 Sustainable Agriculture Achievement Award.
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Long-time conference attendee Hannah Breckbill, who operates Humble Hands Harvest in Decorah, Iowa, finds the connections she makes to be her favorite part of the conference. “The people and network are what I love most,” she says.

Those who register by Dec. 8 will be entered in a drawing to win two free nights at the Hilton Des Moines Downtown hotel during the conference. PFI strives to keep the conference affordable for attendees and offers special rates for members and students.

To register and for pricing details, visit practicalfarmers.org/2024-annual-conference. For questions about the conference, or help registering, please call the office at (515) 232-5661. For full conference details, visit practicalfarmers.org/pfi-annual-conference.

Practical Farmers of Iowa’s 2024 Annual Conference is supported by several major sponsors, including: ADM re:generations; Grain Millers Inc.; Niman Ranch; Sunderman Farm Management Co.; and Choose Iowa | Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship




NCGA to Congress: Farm Bill Extension Provides Certainty for Growers but Full Reauthorization Still Needed

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) said today that it is pleased that the House and Senate passed a continuing resolution that extends the 2018 farm bill for one year, but the association said the extension is no substitute for a fully reauthorized farm bill.

“Growers are already making decisions for the 2024 crop year based on markets, growing conditions and risk calculations,” said Minnesota farmer and NCGA President Harold Wolle. “This extension provides us with much needed certainty around the commodity title and other important USDA programs. But we continue to advocate for a full reauthorization of the farm bill as soon as possible.”

The 2018 farm bill, which expired on September 30, authorizes the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s farm and food programs.

Late Tuesday night, the House of Representatives bundled the farm bill extension with a continuing resolution to fund the government through early next year. The Senate signaled its support soon after resulting in a vote late Wednesday night.

NCGA and our state partners continue to work closely with policymakers to ensure that corn growers’ key priorities are included in the final bill.



Cattle Producers Praise Farm Bill Extension, Urges for Swift Passage

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) praised Congress for passing a government funding package that includes a one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill through September 30, 2024, and extends the Livestock Mandatory Reporting program until January 19, 2024.
 
“NCBA is thankful for Congress passing legislation extending critical programs that farmers and ranchers across the country depend on. These extensions give much needed certainty to cattle producers and NCBA will continue engaging with Congress and the Biden Administration as they work to deliver a long-term Farm Bill, as well as a clean reauthorization of Livestock Mandatory Reporting,” said NCBA President Todd Wilkinson, a South Dakota cattle producer. “With so much work still left to do, I urge President Biden to swiftly sign this continuing resolution.”



NFU Encouraged by Farm Bill Extension, Urges Timely Passage of Five-Year Bill

Today, National Farmers Union (NFU) President Rob Larew issued the following statement regarding the one-year extension of the 2018 Farm Bill recently passed by Congress:

“NFU is encouraged by the strong bipartisan support for an extension of the 2018 Farm Bill. Now we urge Congress to channel that success toward getting a new farm bill done in a timely fashion. Family farmers and ranchers must have clarity about the status of farm programs to make informed planting and business decisions heading into the next growing season, and an extension accomplishes that in the short term. We will continue working to craft and pass a five-year farm bill that provides strong support for family farmers, ranchers, and our communities.”



AFBF Appreciates Farm Bill Extension, Urges New Bill

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the passage of a stopgap spending bill by both the House of Representatives and Senate, which includes a one-year extension of the 2018 farm bill. Farm Bureau sent a letter to all members of Congress Tuesday urging passage of the continuing resolution that included a one-year extension of the 2018 farm bill.

“We are grateful Congress passed a farm bill extension to avoid serious program disruptions and we encourage President Biden to sign it. However, we urge both the House and Senate to stay focused on a new, modernized farm bill that recognizes the many changes and challenges of the past five years.

“The current farm bill was written before the pandemic, before inflation spiked, and before global unrest sent shock waves through the food system. We need programs that reflect today’s realities. So much work has been done by the agriculture committees in both the House and Senate over the past 18 months to prepare to craft a smart and effective farm bill. Congress must keep that momentum going.

“While an extension is necessary, they're running out of time to write a new bill. We need a new farm bill in early 2024. The farm bill affects every American by helping to ensure a safe, stable and affordable food supply. Let’s make sure we get it right in 2024.”



USDA announces 2022 Census of Agriculture data release details, preliminary return rate, and upcoming special studies

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will release the 2022 Census of Agriculture data on February 13, 2024. NASS concluded the data collection this summer with a preliminary national return rate of 61%. The ag census, conducted once every five years, was mailed to more than 3 million producers across the United States and Puerto Rico late last year. NASS plans to release the data from the 2022 Puerto Rico Census of Agriculture in summer 2024. Early next year, NASS will conduct the Census of Agriculture in the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, and U.S. Virgin Islands.

            “On behalf of everyone at USDA, I would like to thank the millions of producers who gave their time and effort to complete the 2022 Census of Agriculture,” said NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “Ag census data will inform decisions about policy, farm and conservation programs, rural development, research, technology development, ag education, and more over the next several years. These data will have a very real impact on producers, their farming operations, and communities.”

The ag census data will be available at nass.usda.gov/AgCensus and in NASS’s searchable database, Quick Stats. Publication dates for the various ag census data products can be found on NASS’s online 2024 Agricultural Statistics Board Calendar. Like all NASS data, ag census data will be available in aggregate form only, ensuring that no individual operation or producer can be identified, as required by federal law.

“NASS staff are currently doing extensive analyses of each response,” said NASS’s Census and Survey Division Director Barbara Rater. “We use trusted statistical methods to account for nonresponse, under-coverage, and misclassification to continue to produce accurate data down to the county level. Per usual, these methodologies will be published in the final report.”

In addition to the U.S. territory ag census data collection, two ag census special studies that will provide more in-depth information on certain industries will be conducted this fall and winter: the 2023 Census of Aquaculture and the 2023 Irrigation and Water Management Survey. These questionnaires will be mailed to the producers who reported these activities in the 2022 Census of Agriculture. For more information about these upcoming special studies, visit nass.usda.gov/AgCensus.

The Census of Agriculture provides the only source of impartial and comprehensive agricultural data for every state and county in the nation. Watch for additional news about the ag census at @usda_nass on X (formerly known as Twitter).



 Council Releases New Study Highlighting Superior Performance Of U.S. Corn In Poultry Feeds

The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) recently released Year 2 of its Corn Origins Report, funded by the Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council, North Dakota Corn Utilization Council and South Dakota Corn Utilization Council, that explores the performance of U.S. corn against other origin corn in poultry diets.

There are numerous advantages to buying U.S. corn, including higher levels of available starch for animal digestibility, lower levels of mycotoxins and larger kernel size, and the Council’s original study confirmed the origin of corn used by feed millers worldwide has an impact on the financial performance of their feed industries and, ultimately, the growth of their livestock.

In the newly published study, commercial corn samples were collected from the warehouse of an international feed company in Colombia – U.S., Argentinian and Brazilian corn. This corn was re-exported to the United States and sent to Auburn University to run feeding trials in poultry to assess growth performance, carcass traits and nutrient digestibility.

The study found that birds fed diets with U.S. corn consumed less feed throughout the entire grow-out phase compared to those fed Argentinian or Brazilian corn. The lower feed conversion rates (FCR) in the poultry fed U.S. corn translated to significant long-term cost savings. These savings, depending on the number of poultry produced annually, translated into significant cost savings.

“When the Council originally started this study, we were hoping to address our international customers concerns around the fragility of U.S. corn and the breakage that occurs during the export process,” said Kurt Shultz, USGC senior director for global strategies. “So, we went to the warehouses of our customers to get corn at the end of the export channel, in the process of conducting the study, we found that U.S. corn despite its fragility, outperforms other origins in terms of digestible starch. These benefits are not immediately apparent in an individual chicken, but when you look across a flock of millions of birds per year, which is typical in commercial poultry operations, it leads to hundreds of thousands of dollars of additional profitability against South American corn.”

“International buyers have a choice when choosing which origin they buy their corn from, however, those regularly buying U.S. corn have a competitive advantage, in terms of profitability, than those using other origins,” Shultz said.

Moving forward, the Council is planning the next stage of the study which will be to conduct commercial trials with two to three international feed companies. The Council will conduct milling trials to benchmark the energy and milling costs of various origins and their performance in commercial poultry operations to drill down and measure animal performance. This data will lead to total costs of production based on the origin of the corn. Ultimately, the study will highlight the performance benefits of U.S. corn and how it improves the competitive advantage and profitability of customers in an increasingly competitive environment.



USDA Announces Planned Trade Missions for 2024, Shares Next Steps for Regional Agricultural Promotion Program

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced next steps in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s efforts to bolster U.S. agricultural trade, including the department’s planned trade missions for 2024 and the opening of a public comment period for the new Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP). These efforts will help to support further growth in U.S. agricultural exports and introduce high-quality U.S. agricultural products to new markets.

“Market diversification is an important tool for maximizing growth opportunities for U.S. agriculture, as well as hedging the risk of market contraction and general volatility in the global marketplace,” said Secretary Vilsack. “USDA is committed to promoting export opportunities in non-traditional markets and ensuring that U.S. agricultural commodities and products are available to diverse consumer groups around the world.”

In October, Secretary Vilsack announced that USDA will use $1.3 billion from the Commodity Credit Corporation funds to establish RAPP, to bolster and diversify U.S. agricultural export opportunities, and strengthen support for specialty crop industries. This investment will enable American exporters to enter new markets and expand market share in current and growth markets. On Friday, Nov. 17, USDA will publish regulations for RAPP, which will be open for public comment for 30 days.

U.S. agricultural exports totaled a record $196 billion in 2022, following a record setting year in 2021. USDA export promotion programs support efforts to continue market expansion for U.S. food and agricultural products. These programs are just one tool that USDA utilizes to ensure market access. The Department has tallied numerous trade policy wins during the Biden-Harris Administration that provided new opportunities for U.S. farmers and ranchers, including:
    Vietnam opening its market for U.S. grapefruit exporters;
    India dropping the retaliatory tariffs on apples, chickpeas, lentils, almonds and walnuts. The Indian government also reduced tariffs for turkey, duck, blueberries and cranberries;
    Canada approving legislative recognition of U.S. biofuels, maintaining the largest and most dependable export market for U.S. ethanol and biodiesel;
    Mexico granting market access to U.S. potatoes following more than 20 years of engagement;
    Japan renegotiating beef safeguard levels under the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement, reducing tariffs and generating growth opportunities for $150 million in beef exports; and,
    Brazil agreeing not to change import certification requirements, ensuring continued exports of U.S. milk, beef, and seafood to this important market.

USDA plans to build on these successes and highlight export opportunities in additional markets through a robust agribusiness trade mission schedule next year. USDA will lead trade missions to the following markets in 2024:
    Seoul, Korea – Week of March 25, 2024
    New Delhi, India – Week of April 22, 2024
    Vancouver, Canada – Week of June 17, 2024
    Bogota, Colombia – Week of July 29, 2024
    Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (with buyers from Thailand) – Week of September 9, 2024
    Casablanca, Morocco (with buyers from Senegal and Francophone West Africa) – Week of December 2, 2024

For more information about RAPP and agribusiness trade missions, visit www.fas.usda.gov.