Friday February 24 Ag News (plus some weekend features)

NEBRASKA CATTLE ON FEED UP 4 PERCENT 

Nebraska feedlots, with capacities of 1,000 or more head, contained 2.57 million cattle on feed on February 1, according to the USDA’s, National Agricultural Statistics, Nebraska Field Office.  This inventory was up 4 percent from last year.  This is the largest inventory since the data series began in 1994.  Placements during January totaled 430,000 head, the same as 2011.  Fed cattle marketings for the month of January  totaled 395,000 head, up 3 percent from last year.  Other disappearance during January totaled 15,000 head, equal to a year ago.

Cattle and calves on feed for slaughter market in Iowa for all feedlots totaled 1.38 million head on February 1, 2012, according  to  the  USDA,  National  Agricultural  Statistics Service,  Iowa Field Office. The  inventory  is up 6 percent from January 1, 2012 but down 1 percent from February 1, 2011.    Feedlots  with  a  capacity  greater  than  1,000  head had  650,000  head  on  feed,  up  5  percent  from  last month but  down  2  percent  from  last  year.    Feedlots  with  a capacity  less  than  1,000  head  had  730,000  head  on  feed, up 7 percent from last month but down 1 percent from last year.

Placements  during  January  totaled  220,000  head,  an increase of 28 percent from  last month and up 20 percent from  last  year.    Feedlots  with  a  capacity  greater  than 1,000 head placed 103,000 head, up 34 percent from last month and up 11 percent from last year.  Feedlots with a capacity less than 1,000 head placed 117,000 head. This is up 23 percent from last month and up 30 percent from last year.

Marketings  for  January  were  132,000  head,  down 14 percent  from  last month  and  down  13  percent  from last  year.  Feedlots  with  a  capacity  greater  than  1,000 head  marketed  70,000  head,  up  11  percent  from  last month and up 1 percent from last year.   Feedlots with a capacity  less  than  1,000  head  marketed  62,000  head, down 31 percent  from  last month  and down 24 percent from last year.  

United States Cattle on Feed Up 2 Percent
Cattle and calves on feed for slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.8 million head on February 1, 2012. The inventory was 2 percent above February 1, 2011.

Placements in feedlots during January totaled 1.85 million, 2 percent below 2011. Net placements were 1.77 million head. During January, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 445,000, 600-699 pounds were 430,000, 700-799 pounds were 525,000, and 800 pounds and greater were 447,000.

Marketings of fed cattle during January totaled 1.82 million, 2 percent above 2011.  Other disappearance totaled 81,000 during January, 42 percent above 2011.

2011 Cattle on Feed and Annual Size Group Estimates
Cattle and calves on feed for slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head represented 84.0 percent of all cattle and calves on feed in the United States on January 1, 2012, up from 82.2 on January 1, 2011.

Marketings of fed cattle for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head during 2011 represented 87.7 percent of all cattle marketed from feedlots in the United States, up from 84.6 percent during 2010.



Nebraska Soybean Board Research Advisory Committee Meeting and March Board of Directors Meeting

The Nebraska Soybean Board will meet March 21 & 22, 2012, at the Embassy Suites, 1040 P Street, Lincoln, Nebraska. The Research Advisory Committee meeting will begin March 21, at 8:00 a.m. and end at 2:00 p.m.   The Board of Directors regular business meeting will then come to order at 2:05 p.m.  On Thursday, March 22nd the meeting will resume at 7:30 a.m. and adjourn at 2:00 p.m.  A complete agenda for the public meeting is available for inspection on the Nebraska Soybean Board website at www.nebraskasoybeans.org . 



Federal Government Steps Up Commitment to Bio-based Products, Farmers

The Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) commends the recent announcement by the Obama Administration encouraging executive departments and agencies to take full advantage of the Federal BioPreferred program.

Established by the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002, the Federal BioPreferred program was created in an effort to, “promote rural economic development, create new jobs, and provide new markets for farm commodities,” which will help increase U.S. energy security and independence.

The announcement, which reinforced the Obama Administration’s commitment to “drive innovation and economic growth in rural America,” adds meat to the bones of Executive Order 13514, which aims to promote sustainable product acquisition throughout the Federal Government.

The administration is now calling on Federal agencies to follow Executive Order 13514, which requires sustainable acquisition goals and milestones to be reported annually. The Executive Order also requires agencies to ensure that 95 percent of new contracts for products and services advance sustainable acquisition, given that they meet agency performance requirements.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) currently includes 64 categories and an estimated 9,000 products on the preferred Federal procurement program; however, fewer than half of the known bio-based products available are currently included in the program.

Therefore the announcement directs Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, to increase the number of categories of bio-based products designated and individual products that are eligible for preferred purchasing by 50 percent within the next year. By increasing the number of products available under the Federal procurement program, the administration hopes to increase overall procurement of bio-based products.

“We are very excited by the announcement coming from D.C. on the Federal BioPreferred program,” said Greg Greving, NSB chairman and soybean farmer from Chapman. “Increasing the amount of products on the list will hopefully encourage further research and development of products that can be made from sustainable resources, such as soybeans. Finding new uses for our agricultural products are a great way to strengthen rural economies while working to lower our dependency on foreign oil used in petroleum-based products.”

For more information on bio-based products, please visit http://www.nebioproducts.org.



2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Angus, Simmental and Charolais

Great weather resulted in above-average attendance during the Royal Day at the 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic. The day featured the Angus, Simmental and Charolais shows and sales. The evening showcased an elite offering of pregnancies, flushes, semen and embryo packages followed by the Pen of Three Fancy Heifers.

Angus Sale
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Angus Show and Sale was held Thursday, February 23rd  in Kearney, NE.   36 bulls and 14 females participated in this year’s sale.  Judge was Travis Pembrook of Fairview, OK and the auctioneer was Tracy Harl of Hastings, NE.

Taking home Champion Angus Bull honors was Lot 37, SB Darkside 127, consigned by Sisco Brothers Cattle Co. of Syracuse, NE.  This bull is a 03/11/2011 son of Limestone Darkhorse U322 and sold to Damion Dix of Stockton, NE for $8,000. 

Reserve Champion Angus Bull went to Lot 29, SB Winchester 119, consigned by Sisco Brothers Cattle Co. of Syracuse, NE.  This bull is a 2/24/2011 son of MCC Lookout 530 and he sold to Richard Moomey from Sumner, NE for $5,500.

High Selling Angus Bull was Lot 7, HP Up & Over 11-ET, consigned by Hollman Angus of Hallam, NE.  This bull is a 01/01/2011 son of Sitz Upward 307R and sold to Calvin Huebner of Hershey, NE for $12,000. 

Champion Angus Heifer was Lot 45, JJT Barbara 101, consigned by Tracy Cattle of Wellfleet, NE.  This heifer is a 02/01/2011, daughter of Plainview Lutton E101 and she sold to Dennis Breinig of Arapahoe, NE, for $7,000. 

The Reserve Champion Angus Heifer was Lot 41, FRED-Lady 0272, consigned by Fred Ranch of Rose, NE.  This heifer is a 02/17/2010 daughter of SAV Pioneer 7301 and she sold to Kurt Kuhn, Mr. K Angus of Clarks, NE for $6,500.

The 2012 sale featured 36 bulls averaging $4,354. 14 heifers sold for an average of $3,461 in 2012. Overall, in 2012, there were 50 cattle that grossed $205,200 and averaged $4,104.

Simmental Sale
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Simmental Show and Sale was held Thursday, February 23rd  in Kearney, NE.  28 bulls and 16 females participated in this year’s sale. Judge was Brad Hanewich, Renssaler, IN and the auctioneer was Tracy Harl of Hastings, NE.  Simmental genetics were hot items today as evidenced by the averages for both bulls and females.

Champion Simmental Bull and high-selling honors went to Lot 12, Lambert Harley 106Y, consigned by Lambert Family of Chadron, NE.  This bull is a 02/15/2011 son of ZKCC Chopper and sold to WY Cattle Service, Inc. of Yoder, WY, for $10,500. 

Reserve Champion Simmental Bull went to Lot 14, PJWC Star Struck 59Y, consigned by Wiese Cattle of Lindsay, NE.  This bull is a 2/23/2011 son of SVF Star Power S802 and he sold to Jason Gall of Clarkson, NE, for $7,750.

Champion Simmental Heifer, record-setting and high-selling honors went to Lot 37, ZKCC Cow 550X, consigned by Kraenow Cattle Co. of Hemingford, NE.  This heifer is a 01/10/2010 daughter of SVF/NJC Built Right N48 and she sold to Felt/Willers/Forster Partnership of Wakefield/Stanton/Smithfield, NE, for $21,000.

The Reserve Champion Simmental Heifer was Lot 38, Ford Farms 121X “Star”, consigned by Ford Farms of Bruce, SD.  This heifer is a 03/11/2010 daughter of Ford Farms Star Studded and she sold to Jeremy Lhoteck, of Wagner, SD, for $5,500

The 2012 sale featured 28 bulls averaging $4,239.  16 heifers sold for an average of $4,659 in 2012. Overall, in 2012, there were 44 cattle that grossed $193,250 and averaged $4,392.

Charolais Sale
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Charolais Show and Sale was held Thursday, February 23rd   in Kearney, NE.  .  23 bulls and 6 females participated in this year’s sale. Judge was Brad Hanewich, Renssaler, IN and the auctioneer was Tracy Harl of Hastings, NE.

Taking home Champion Charolais Bull honors was Lot 15, HCF Uncle Jesse, consigned by Hassebrook Charolais Farm of Genoa, NE.  This bull is a 02/24/2011 son of TR Mr. Fire Water 5792 RET and sold to Dave Hebbert, Hebbert Charolais of Hyannis, NE for $6,000.

Reserve Champion Charolais Bull went to Lot 20, SCR Harvest Moon 1251, consigned by Sonderup Charolais Ranch, Inc. of Fullerton, NE.  This bull is a 03/13/2011 son of FC Harvestor 641 P and he sold to Michael Schmidt, Schmidt Bros. of Anselmo, NE, for $5,750.

Sharing Charolais bull high-selling honors was Lot 3, LaFraise Denver 240, consigned by LaFraise Farms, of Flanagan, IL.  This bull is a 06/25/2010 son of RC Denver 6026 and he sold to Monte Overturf, Overturf Cattle Company, Sutton, NE, for 6,000.

Champion Charolais Heifer was Lot 30, Kanza J6 Mercedes Sequel Y9 - ET, consigned by Kanza Cattle of Chapman, KS.  This heifer is a 04/02/2011 daughter of SSF Corks 5J White Squall ET and she sold to Rob Fischer of Rensselaer, IN, for $5,500.

The Reserve Champion Charolais Heifer and High-Selling Female was Lot 25, SCR Miss Tuffy 0134, consigned by Ford Farms of Bruce, SD.  This heifer is a 02/17/2010 daughter of FC Marbler 841P and she sold to Kenny Thorne, Independent Foundation of York, NE, for $16,000.

The 2012 sale featured 23 bulls averaging $3,946.  6 heifers sold for an average of $5,225 in 2012. Overall, in 2012, there were 29 cattle that grossed $122,100 and averaged $4,210.

Royal Ice Sale
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Royal Ice Sale was held Thursday, February 23rd  in Kearney, NE. The Royal Ice Sale consisted of  2 pregnancies, 61 embryo packages, 3 flushes and 4 semen packages.  Auctioneer was Tracy Harl of Hastings, NE.

High Selling Embryo Package was Lot 42, CCBS Socks x Monopoly, consigned by Schultz Show Cattle, of Cairo, NE and sold to Kurt Kleinschmidt of Sutton, NE, for $1,000 per embryo. This was the high selling lot of the evening.
High Selling Flush was Lot 46, BF Mystic 6040, consigned by Supanchick Shorthorns, Hazard, NE, and sold to Jay Cech of Clarkson, NE, for $2,300.
High Selling Pregnancy was Lot 49, Rosetta 1100 of Best Angus x Leachman Right Time, consigned by Cedar Ridge Angus of Gothenburg, NE, and sold to Robert Brenner of Idalia, CO, for $2,700.
The sale also featured 4 semen lots that averaged $450 per lot. 
The 2012 sale featured 2 pregnancies that grossed $4,600 and averaged $2,300.  3 flushes sold for $4,400 and averaged $1,467, 61 embryo packages grossed $59,350 and averaged $973 and 4 semen lots grossed $1,800 and averaged $450.

Pen of Three Show and Sale
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic 2nd Annual Pen of Three Show and Sale was a favorite again for events held Thursday, February 23rd  in Kearney, NE.  16 lots of fancy open heifers on display led to the excitement prior to the sale. Judges were Brad Hanewich, Renssaler, IN, and Travis Pembrook of Fairview, OK, and the auctioneer was Tracy Harl of Hastings, NE.

Reserve Grand Champion- Judge’s Choice, 1st Place People’s Choice and high-selling Pen of Three was Lot 3, consigned by Kearns Cattle Company of Rushville, NE.  Lot 3A was purchased by Rocking J from Cody, NE for $5,500; Lot 3B was purchased by Darin Green, Hull, IA for $4,500; Lot 3C was purchased by DM Cattle, Elm Creek, NE, and was sold for $2,750 .

Grand Champion- Judge’s Choice and 2nd Place People’s Choice Pen of Three was Lot 6, consigned by Sisco Brothers Cattle Company of Syracuse, NE.  Lot 6A was purchased by J-6 Inc. from Gibbon, NE, for $3,500; Lot 6B was purchased J-6 Inc. from Gibbon, NE, for $3,600; Lot 6C was purchased  by Scott Hinrichs, Ayr, NE, and was sold for $2,100.

The 2012 sale featured 16 lots that grossed $48,400 and averaged $3,025. 


2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Limousin, Shorthorn, Balancer/Gelbvieh and Pen of 5 Heifer Sale

Friday’s level of excitement and support for the 21st  NE Cattlemen’s Classic carried over from the previous days along with the arrival of  many junior cattlemen to the NE Cattlemen’s Classic. Limousin, Shorthorn and Balancer/Gelbvieh shows and sales started off the day. The evening ended with the Commercial Man’s Pen of Five Heifer Sale.

Limousin Sale
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Limousin Show and Sale was held Friday, February 24th   in Kearney, NE.  7 bulls and 1 female participated in this year’s sale. Judge was Travis Pembrook, Fairview, OK and the auctioneer was Bruce Brooks of Marietta, OK.

Taking home Champion Limousin Bull honors and high selling was Lot 12, BRAW Upper Echelon 169, consigned by Bullis Creek Ranch of Wood Lake, NE.  This bull is a 03/21/2011 son of PBRS Upper Echelon 820U and sold to Max Schultz of Oxford, NE, for $6,200.

Reserve Champion Limousin Bull was Lot 7, KEVN Yukon Jack 192Y, consigned by Ochsner Limousin of Kersey, CO.  This bull is a 03/07/2011 son of SAV Bismark 5682 and he sold to Kyle Klinkebiel of Cambridge, NE, for $3,000.

Champion Limousin Heifer and high selling honors went to Lot 8, BRAW Ms Spaceship 121, consigned by Bullis Creek Ranch of Wood Lake, NE.  This heifer is a 03/04/2011 daughter of Wulfs Spaceship 3223S and she sold to Halle, Emma & Katie Ramsey of Fullerton, NE, for $3,950. 

The 2012 sale featured 7 bulls averaging $4,557.  1 heifer sold for an average of $3,950 in 2012. Overall, in 2012, there were 8 cattle that grossed $35,850 and averaged $4,481.

Balancer/Gelbvieh Sale
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Balancer/Gelbvieh Show and Sale was held Friday, February 24th   in Kearney, NE.  12 bulls and 10 females participated in this year’s sale. Judge was Travis Pembrook, Fairview, OK and the auctioneer was Tracy Harl of Hastings, NE.

Taking home Grand Champion Balancer/Gelbvieh Bull and high selling honors went to Lot 4, Insidious 612Y, consigned by J.J. Boehler of Orleans, NE.  This bull is a 01/24/2011 son of Silveiras Style 9303 and sold to Cedar Top Ranch of Stapleton, NE, for $5,500.

Reserve Champion Balancer/Gelbvieh Bull was Lot 2, AHL Hollywood 132Y, consigned by LeDoux Ranch of Agenda, KS.  This bull is a 01/17/2011 son of PIE Get Western 4061 and he sold to Lynn Ryan, Ansley, NE, for $4,600.

Grand Champion Balancer/Gelbvieh Heifer was Lot 23, BARG Rose 113Y, consigned by Barwick Gelbvieh of Orleans, NE.  This heifer is a 06/11/2011 daughter of BARG Stetson 9W and she sold to Elizabeth Krajewski of Venango, NE, for $5,000. 

Reserve Champion Balancer/Gelbvieh Heifer was Lot 14, AHL Reba 121Y, consigned by LeDoux Ranch of Agenda, KS.  This heifer is a 01/13/2011 daughter of XXB Wingman 639T ET and she sold to Steve Schroeder of Sioux Falls, SD, for $2,400.

The 2012 sale saw 12 bulls average $3,425.  10 heifers sold for an average of $2,365 in 2012. Overall, in 2012, there were 22 cattle that grossed $64,750 and averaged $2,943.

Shorthorn Sale
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Shorthorn Show and Sale was held Friday, February 24th  in Kearney, NE. Nine bulls and 11 females participated in this year’s sale. Judge was Twig Marston, Norfolk, NE, and the auctioneer was Bruce Brooks of Marietta, OK.

Taking home Grand Champion Shorthorn Bull and sharing high-selling honors was Lot 4, HILLS Primo’s Pride 107 ET, consigned by Indian Hills Land & Cattle of Garland, NE.  This bull is a 03/17/2011 son of CF Primo X ET and sold to Schroeder Family Shorthorns of Columbus, NE, for $4,000.

Reserve Champion Shorthorn Bull was Lot 7, HILLS Sizzle 109Y ET, consigned by Indian Hills Land & Cattle Co. of Garland, NE.  This bull is a 03/21/2011 son of WHR Sonny 8114 ET and sold to Steve Stohlmann of Weeping Water, NE, for $1,600.

Sharing high-selling bull honors went to Lot 11, KOLT Revolution 031, consigned by KOLT Cattle Co./Klug Family Shorthorns of Seward/Columbus, NE.  This bull is a 04/20/2011 son of SULL Basic Needs 8813 ET and sold to Steven Crow of Oklahoma City, OK, for $4,000.

Champion Shorthorn Heifer was Lot 21, WR Amp Suzy 159, consigned by Warner Ranch Shorthorns, LLC, of Riverton, WY.  This heifer is a 3/17/2011 daughter of Creekside Amp 32W and she sold to Jay Cech, of Clarkson, NE for $3,500. 

Reserve Champion Shorthorn Heifer was Lot 18, Fairview Max Amanda 4Y ET, consigned by Fairview Stock Farm of Columbus, NE.  This heifer is a 03/13/2011 daughter of RS Max 307 335 01 and she sold to Jacob Smart of Sterling, CO for $3,000.

High-selling Shorthorn Heifer was Lot 12, JSF Golden Chain 9Y, consigned by Jungels Shorthorn Farms of Kathryn, ND.  This heifer is a 02/25/2011 daughter of SULL Red Demand and she sold to Russel Puls of Hoskins, NE, for $3,600.

The 2012 sale saw 9 bulls averaging $2,600.  11 heifers sold for an average of $2,514 in 2012. Overall, in 2012, there were 20 cattle that grossed $51,050 and averaged $2,553.

Pen of 5 Sale
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Commercial Man’s Pen of Five Sale was a favorite again for events held Friday, February 24th   in Kearney, NE.  17 lots of commercial heifers led to the excitement prior to the sale. Judges were Brad Hanewich, Renssaler, IN, and Travis Pembrook of Fairview, OK, and the auctioneer was Tracy Harl of Hastings, NE.

The Grand Champion Pen of Five Heifers went to Lot 11, consigned by Lienemann Cattle Co. of Princeton, NE.  This was a registered Angus Pen of Heifers that sold to John Fritz of Adams, NE, for $12,000.

The Reserve Champion Pen of Five Heifers went to Lot 2, consigned by JC Cattle Co. of Junction City, KS.  This pen was a Commercial Hereford/Angus Pen of Heifers that sold to William Goosic, Franklin, NE for $9,500.

The High Selling Pen of 5 Heifers went to Lot 1, consigned by C Lazy B  Cattle of Kearney, NE.  This pen was a Commercial Red Angus Pen of Heifers that sold to Jay Lee of Madrid, NE, for $12,750.

The 2012 sale featured 17 pens that grossed $165,825 and averaged $9,754.



Final day of NE Cattlemen's Classic features Maine Anjou and Chianina Sales

The 21st Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic final day of breed shows was on Saturday, February 25th . The Maine Anjou and Chianina shows and sales were as successful as the rest of the shows and sales during the week .

Supreme Row judging capped off the evening celebration with an overflow audience along with the selection of the junior, intermediate and senior showmanship champions which was a new event this year.

Taking Junior Champion Showmanship honors was Korynn Clason, Beaver City, NE; and Junior Reserve Showmanship went to Jaclyn Heinrich, Hickman, NE.

Intermediate Champion Showmanship honors went to Savannah Schaefer, Nehawka, NE; and Intermediate Reserve Showmanship went to Abby Nelson, Valparaiso, NE. 

Senior champion showmanship honors went to Mikayla Rutt, Minden, NE, and Res. Champion Senior Showmanship went to Samantha Schneider, Cozad, NE.

The three official judges for Supreme Row were Tyler Norvell from Oklahoma City, OK, Jason Johnson from Brookings, SD, Kyle Rozeboom, St. Paul, MN. These three gentlemen evaluated all 11 breed champion bulls and heifers to select the 2012 Supreme Champions. The Supreme Champion Heifer honors went to Kraenow Cattle Co. of Hemingford, NE, with the Champion Simmental Heifer. This heifer sold to Felt/Willers/Forster Partnership of Wakefield/Stanton/Smithfield, NE. The Supreme Champion Bull honors went to White Cattle Company of Buffalo, WY, with the Champion Horned Hereford Bull. The bull sold to Big Gully Farm of Maidstone, SK, Canada.

MAINE ANJOU SALE                   
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic Maine Anjou Show and Sale was held Saturday, February 25th  in Kearney, NE.  21 bulls and five females participated in this year’s sale.  Judge was Travis Pembrook of Fairview, OK. Auctioneer was Tracy Harl of Hastings, NE.

Overall Maine Anjou Bull and Grand Champion MaineTainer Bull along with high-selling honors was Lot 2, ATV Ali’s Champ, consigned by ATV Show Team of Amherst, CO.  This bull is a 01/24/2011 son of Silveiras Style 9303 and he sold to Todd Ibach/Greg Ibach/Floyd Waller of Sumner, NE, for $12,500.

Overall Reserve Maine Anjou Bull and  Res. Champion MaineTainer Bull was Lot 16, MHCC High Regards 1Y, consigned by Hoblyn Farms of York, NE. This bull is a 03/11/2011 son of BPF Mercedes Benz 131U and sold to Ben McCall of North Platte, NE, for $10,000.

Grand Champion Maine Anjou Heifer and high-seller was Lot 30, SBCC Little Sweetie, consigned by Rick Schultz Show Cattle of Cairo, NE.  This heifer is a 04/02/2011 daughter of GTWY Breathe Easy and she sold to Jason Schneider of Cozad, NE for $4,400. 

The Reserve Champion Maine Anjou Heifer was Lot 28, SBCC Lifelines Lady 941, consigned by Schultz Farms Show Cattle of Cairo, NE.  This heifer is a 03/29/2011 daughter of BK Lifeline 258J and she sold to John Berggren of Weston, NE, for $3,100.

The 2012 sale featured 21 bulls averaging $4,002.  Five heifers sold for an average of $2,660 in 2012. Overall, in 2012, there were 26 cattle that grossed $97,350 and averaged $3,744.

CHIMAINE/CHIANGUS SALE                    
The 2012 Nebraska Cattlemen’s Classic ChiMaine/ChiAngus Show and Sale was held Saturday, February 25th  in Kearney, NE.  Six bulls and seven females participated in this year’s sale.  Judge was Travis Pembrook, Fairview, OK. Auctioneer was Tracy Harl of Hastings, NE.

Taking home Grand Champion Chianina Bull and high-selling honors was Lot 5, Power Stroke, consigned by Greg Christo, Albion, NE. This bull is a 02/16/2011 son of GTWY Dr Meyer 818U and he sold to Kurt Kleinschmidt of Sutton, NE, for $24,000.

Reserve Grand Champion Chianina Bull was Lot 9, AHLB Maximum Ride 134Y, consigned by Ahlberg Cattle of Longmont, CO.  This bull is a 03/06/2011 son of CWCC Ready Money 519R and he sold to Steve Stohlmann, Stohlmann Cattle Co. of Weeping Water, NE, for $2,300.

Grand Champion Chianina Heifer was Lot 15, FR Super Lady 0350, consigned by Fred Ranch of Rose, NE.  This heifer is a 03/29/2010 daughter of FR Muddy Water and she sold to Tyson Vogt, of Elmwood, NE, for $3,500. 

Reserve Grand Champion Chianina Heifer was Lot 22, Miss Ruby 36Y, consigned by Weiss Bros. Show Cattle of Trumbull, NE.  This heifer is a 04/21/2011 daughter of Monopoly and she sold to Keith Stafford, Stafford Cattle Co. of Kearney, NE, for $8,500.

High-Selling Chianina Heifer was Lot 18, ZKCC Della 153Y, consigned by Kraenow Cattle Co. of Hemingford, NE. This is a 03/24/2011 daughter of Monopoly and she sold to Derek VanDyke of Kearney, NE for $9,000.

The 2012 sale featured six bulls averaging $7,567.  Seven heifers sold for an average of $4,743 in 2012. Overall, in 2012, there were 13 cattle that grossed $78,600 and averaged $6,046.



Iowa 2011 Corn County Estimates

In 2011, Kossuth and Sioux counties maintained their positions as the top corn producing counties in the State, ranking first and second in both harvested acres and total production.  Kossuth County has led the State in acres harvested for grain since 1951.  Kossuth County has led the State in corn production since 1994.

The highest yields in 2011 were posted in the Northeast district where 5 counties ranked in the top 10, including Bremer County, which had the highest average yield (196.5).  The 3 lowest yields were recorded in the Southeastern district, by Davis (97.8), Van Buren (100.9), and Lee (105.3) counties.  Davis was the only county with an average yield less than 100 bushels per acre.  Many counties along the Missouri River, including Plymoth, Woodbury, Manona, Harrison, and Pottawattame counties, averaged between 158 and 175 bushels an acre. 

2011 Soybean County Estimates 
In 2011, Kossuth, Pottawattamie, Plymouth and Sioux were the four largest soybean-producing counties as they were in 2010.  In 2011, however, production in Pottawattamie (9.16 million bushels) surpassed Plymouth (9.02 million bushels).   Average bushels an acre along the Missouri River looked like this... Plymoth - 46-51; Woodbury, Manona, Harrison - 42-46; and Pottawattame 51-55. 

Counties along the Missouri River in west central and southwest Iowa experienced higher abandonment than normal due to extensive flooding.  In Fremont County, farmers were unable to harvest over 15 percent of their soybean acreage and the yield on the acres they were able to harvest was almost 3 bushels/acre lower than 2010.

The east central area of Iowa produced the highest county yields with 5 of the top 10, including all of the top 4—Scott (62.8), Cedar (61.2), Clinton (60.5), and Jones (59.3).  The counties showing the lowest yields are Davis (32.1) and Van Buren (34.5), both located in Southeast Iowa.



January Pork Production 5 Percent Above Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.12 billion pounds in January, up 2 percent from the 4.04 billion pounds produced in January 2011.
Iowa ............:  571.5 -  +3%      
Kansas .......:  420.2 -  -4%       
Nebraska ....:  593.7 -  unchanged      
(production in million pounds, % of Jan 2011)

Beef production, at 2.11 billion pounds, was slightly below the previous year.  Cattle slaughter totaled 2.72 million head, down 1 percent from January 2011.  The average live weight was down 1 pound from the previous year, at 1,300 pounds.

Veal production totaled 10.4 million pounds, 3 percent below January a year ago.  Calf slaughter totaled 67,700 head, 6 percent below January 2011.  The average live weight was unchanged from last year, at 262 pounds.

Pork production totaled 1.99 billion pounds, 5 percent above the previous year.  Hog slaughter totaled 9.54 million head, 5 percent above January 2011.  The average live weight was unchanged from the previous year, at 278 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 12.1 million pounds, was 8 percent above January 2011.  Sheep slaughter totaled 164,800 head, 2 percent above last year.  The average live weight was 147 pounds, up 8 pounds from January a year ago.



Second Farm Bill Hearing Next Week Will Look at Conservation Issues

The Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee is scheduled to hold its second farm bill hearing of the year on Tuesday, Feb. 28. The hearing will focus on conservation issues, with witnesses to include the administrator of USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the chief of USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). Also testifying will be Dean Stoskopf, a wheat farmer from Hoisington, Kan., and Carl Mattson, a wheat farmer from Chester, Mont., both of whom have strong ties to their state wheat industry organizations. The hearing is planned to start at 10 a.m. D.C. time. It will be streamed live online at http://ag.senate.gov.



USDA Goes the Extra Mile for Producers, Helping to Meet Demand for U.S. Cattle

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has been taking extra steps to meet the needs and ensure the success of some of its most important customers—U.S. exporters.

"Overall, U.S. farmers and ranchers are experiencing their best period in history in terms of agricultural exports, and USDA's support is an important part of that success," said Rebecca Blue, Acting Deputy Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs. "To ensure continued success, APHIS took a hard look at where it can improve processes to serve its many stakeholders, and facilitating exports was an obvious choice. Through flexible approaches, such as the approval of temporary export facilities, APHIS has adapted to meet the needs of animal exporters while maintaining its high standards for animal health and welfare."

Responding to a surge in demand in 2011 from Russia, Turkey and Kazakhstan for live cattle exports from the United States, USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) approved seven temporary export inspection facilities, or EIFs, to supplement the work done at the Agency's approved permanent facilities. These facilities reduce the distance animals have to travel prior to export and help exporters meet strict shipping deadlines.

With the establishment of EIFs, APHIS has been able to keep commerce moving, adapting to a level of cattle exports that doubled in 2011 on top of a 50 percent increase in 2010. Last year, APHIS processed 25 shipments—totaling about 17,000 head of livestock, mostly dairy cattle—through a temporary EIF in Turner, Maine. In December alone, APHIS' new approach helped facilitate shipments of more than 7,100 cattle from Galveston, Texas, to Kazakhstan and Russia. The Agency is continuing to work with exporters on upcoming shipments of cattle.

Animals that are approved through temporary facilities are inspected by APHIS personnel and must meet the same animal health and welfare standards as animals exported through permanent facilities.

Yesterday, USDA forecast fiscal year 2012 agricultural exports to reach the second-highest level on record, maintaining a robust trade surplus and supporting more than 1 million jobs. The forecast for livestock, poultry and dairy was increased $1.9 billion, paced by demand for cattle from Russia and Turkey.

The Obama Administration, with Agriculture Secretary Vilsack's leadership, has aggressively worked to expand export opportunities and reduce barriers to trade, helping to push agricultural exports to record levels in 2011 and beyond. Last year, the United States exported an all-time high of $5.4 billion worth of beef and beef products, surpassing the previous record by more than $1.6 billion and marking an important milestone in USDA's steadfast efforts to open and expand international markets. Overall, U.S. agriculture is currently experiencing one of its best periods in history thanks to the productivity, resiliency, and resourcefulness of our producers. Today, net farm income is at record levels while debt has been cut in half since the 1980s. Overall, American agriculture supports 1 in 12 jobs in the United States and provides American consumers with 83 percent of the food we consume, while maintaining affordability and choice. Strong agricultural exports contribute to a positive U.S. trade balance, create jobs, boost economic growth and support President Obama's National Export Initiative goal of doubling all U.S. exports by the end of 2014.



Egypt Buys More CGM, DDGS

Egypt’s October-to-January imports of corn gluten meal (CGM) reached 50 million metric tons, up 19 percent compared to last year, a development Dr. Hussein Soliman, U.S. Grains Council director in Egypt, attributed to increased production in Egypt’s poultry, fish and dairy sectors. CGM use in fish feed has grown 20 percent in the last three years and continues to trend upward.

“Last year, Egypt’s CGM imports reached 164,000 metric tons -  a relative milestone compared to 2000 when imports were zero. Egypt is now the largest export market for U.S. CGM,” Soliman noted.

Imports of distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS) also increased to 109,840 metric tons in calender year 2011, up from 80,000 metric tons last year.

“End-users are beginning to realize that DDGS is an excellent source not only for protein but also for energy,” Soliman said.



U.S. Farm Equipment Exports Up 23-Percent Last Year

U.S. agricultural equipment exports increased 23 percent in 2011 compared to the previous year for a total $11 billion of machinery shipped to other nations, according to the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. This follows export growth of 12 percent in 2010 after a 2009 decline of 23 percent in the depths of the recession.

The AEM international trade group consolidates U.S. Commerce Department data with other sources into global market reports for members.

"The positive global agricultural environment continues to spur business growth for U.S. farm equipment manufacturers. Despite uncertainty in some markets, there remains a solid fundamental demand for food and fuel supplies to meet growing worldwide needs," stated Charlie O'Brien, AEM vice president agriculture sector.

AEM and its "I Make America" campaign have pushed for export-friendly policies that create and sustain American jobs. These include free trade agreements such as the U.S.-Korea FTA being implemented, which will eliminate export duties on about 80 percent of U.S. industrial products and about 67 percent of U.S. farm-related products.

In recent AEM action, the association is calling for congressional reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank, with an increased exposure cap so more companies can benefit from its services. Ex-Im Bank is self-sustaining, and it focuses on small to medium-size businesses, since private lenders many times are unable or unwilling to extend them financing and insurance support.

Exports to Australia/Oceania led the way in 2011 with a 60-percent gain as the region took delivery of $1.2 billion of U.S.-made agricultural equipment. Agricultural machinery exports to South America increased 31 percent in 2011 with purchases worth $1.3 billion, and exports of agricultural equipment to Central America gained 14 percent and totaled $1.0 billion.

Export sales to Asia grew 17 percent to total $937 million for 2011, and Africa's purchases of U.S. agricultural machinery increased 28 percent to total $334 million last year. Exports of agricultural equipment to Europe gained 31 percent for a total $2.9 billion in 2011, and export business to Canada grew 10 percent and totaled $3.4 billion.



Vilsack drives home importance of domestic renewable fuels; Underscores Obama Administration commitment to America-made renewable fuels

Addressing a crowd of nearly 1,200 renewable fuel and rural American advocates at the Renewable Fuels Association’s National Ethanol Conference, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture (USDA) Tom Vilsack emphatically emphasized the critical importance of America’s ethanol producers to the well-being of the nation’s economic, environment, and energy security.

In prepared excerpts from the speech, Secretary Vilsack said, “These past few years haven’t been easy for homegrown fuel and its supporters. We’ve had to set the record straight about the effects of ethanol production on food costs, we’ve worked to explain your contributions to the global feed market, and to remind people around the world about the amazing increases in efficiency you have made over the past decade.”

Vilsack was also very clear about the need to defend the federal Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), level and expand markets for renewable fuels, and continue to invest in innovative emerging ethanol technologies.  “This is obviously a very difficult budget environment,” Vilsack continued.  “But we must continue to press forward. We need to provide a sustained and strong defense of the RFS2. We need to work together to help level the playing field so consumers have easy access to renewable fuels. And we need to help maintain ethanol production so you can serve as a platform for our transition to producing more advanced biofuels. All of those challenges rely on us to continue to be innovators.... .”

After his remarks, RFA President and CEO Bob Dinneen praised the commitment of Secretary Vilsack to America’s ethanol industry and all of rural America.  “There is no greater advocate and champion for domestic renewable fuels than Secretary Vilsack.  He understands the importance of a robust renewable fuels industry to rural America and the contributions such an industry can make to the nation’s energy security and economic vitality.  All the attendees of the RFA’s National Ethanol Conference are committed to working with Secretary Vilsack, USDA, and the entire Obama Administration to achieve our shared vision of a strong, diverse, and innovative renewable fuels and bio-based products industry.”



Rapid Rise of Asian Middle Class Likely To Revamp Global Food Systems:
U.S. Grains Council Previews A Changing Vision of World Food Demands in 2040

The sophisticated food demands of newly affluent consumers in China and other developing nations are likely to cause major change in U.S. farming and food production, Asian food policy and world trade, according to Food 2040, a new study of emerging food trends in Asia by the U.S. Grains Council (USGC).

USGC President and Chief Executive Officer Thomas C. Dorr presented a preview of Food 2040 today at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s annual Agricultural Outlook Forum.

“Growing affluence in China could change people’s diets and the global food system. Consumers will expect more choice, quality, convenience and safety in their food purchases,” Dorr said.

Food 2040 also reveals important implications for agricultural trade policy between the United States and Asian nations. “We are seeing China become more open to acceptance of new technology, such as agricultural biotechnology, which can help meet the needs of the Asian middle class in a sustainable manner through trade,” Dorr said.

U.S. attitudes about feeding the world are likely to change too. “Many of the agribusinesses and agricultural organizations that comprise the U.S. Grains Council are starting to review possibilities for meeting the needs and capturing the economic value that ascendency of the Asian middle class represents,” said USGC Chairman Dr. Wendell Shauman, an Illinois corn farmer and member of the Illinois Corn Marketing Board. “Working together with trading partners around the world to understand emerging trends, we can use a convergence of science, technology and policy reform to meet changing food demands and capture the economic potential of new Asian consumers.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is assisting the Council with the launch of Food 2040 in Japan. “Japan and the United States are longstanding trading partners, and we understand each other well. Now, our two nations must learn more about China and develop an understanding of how this emerging mega-market will influence the global food system and our two nations’ participation in it,” said Geoffrey Wiggin, USDA’s FAS Minister-Counselor in Tokyo.

Food 2040 outlines the following possibilities for significant change in the global food system.

GLOBAL FOOD SYSTEMS RESTRUCTURED TO SUIT CHINA’S MIDDLE CLASS
China is the world’s fastest growing economy, and because of the sheer size of its population, Chinese demand will reshape the global food industry over the next 20 years. Although India is expected to surpass China in population numbers, China is likely to remain the dominant economy within the timeframe of Food 2040.

CHINA AS WORLD BIOSCIENCE LEADER
Agricultural biotechnology may no longer be dominated by U.S. technology. China is on a path to global bioscience leadership, driven by major central government investments to meet its own food needs and a desire to be an export leader.

NEW ASIAN SYSTEM OF FOOD SAFETY
Asia does not yet have a well-developed food safety and inspection system, but this could change through use of 21st-century nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology and logistics systems.

FOOD AS A SERVICE
By 2040, 70 percent of consumer food expenditures in Japan will go toward foods prepared outside the home, and China is likely to adopt Japan’s rapid acceptance of foods prepared outside the home.

FOOD AS A SERVICE
Food 2040 envisions a proliferation of specialty markets and product differentiation in Asia. This is not a new concept for the United States, where the average U.S. supermarket carries almost 40,000 items, but when four billion people around the world with very different cultures and diets begin to enjoy that degree of consumer choice it will significantly affect global food production, processing and distribution systems.



New Report on New Zealand’s Dairy Export Monopoly Highlights U.S. Concerns about Expanding U.S.-New Zealand Dairy Trade

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) said today that a new report on the anti-competitive practices pervasive in the New Zealand dairy industry highlights why the U.S. dairy farmer sector is so concerned with including U.S.-New Zealand dairy trade in a potential Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) free trade agreement (FTA). The issue is one that NMPF has addressed through its comments to the Obama Administration on TPP, including in its 2010 testimony to the U.S. International Trade Commission. NMPF applauded the new report’s effort to shed more light on this critical concern.

The report in question was prepared by the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) and provided confidentially to the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (a summary of the report is available online). The accompanying letter notes that New Zealand’s largest company has been provided special privileges by the government that enable it to maintain a roughly 90% market share of the milk produced in New Zealand. This advantageous position has given this single dairy company direct control of more than one third of world dairy trade, without even accounting for the additional sales controlled through its many production and distributor relationships around the world.

NMPF has been strongly supportive of the overall TPP negotiations, working to pursue favorable opportunities where they exist for U.S. dairy producers. NMPF has identified the possible future inclusion of dairy negotiations with Japan and Canada as being among the most significant new openings TPP could ultimately offer, although it is not yet clear if or when those countries will join TPP and under what terms.

However, NMPF has been equally clear about dairy producers’ continued vehement opposition to any expansion of U.S.-New Zealand dairy trade as part of that effort, given New Zealand’s dairy market concentration and its dominating firm’s tremendous global market power. NMPF has estimated that U.S. dairy farmers could face $20 billion in losses during the first decade of the FTA if U.S. dairy tariffs are fully eliminated for New Zealand’s benefit.

“New Zealand’s government and dairy industry have been teaming up to spend considerable resources in courting members of the U.S. Congress on the TPP, but our representatives need to keep in mind the harsh realities of the global dairy industry, where trade is dominated by one company,” said Jerry Kozak, President and CEO of NMPF. “And that dominion has been facilitated by New Zealand’s policy of granting a market concentration exemption to a single company, allowing it to sway both internal and external dairy markets.”

Kozak said that in addition to NMPF’s support for TPP talks, the organization has also been supportive of the vast majority of past U.S. trade agreements, which have led to important gains that benefit U.S. dairy producers. NMPF’s position with respect to U.S.-New Zealand dairy trade is in keeping with a commitment to address not only tariff barriers to U.S. dairy sales, but also major non-tariff measures that negatively impact the  U.S.’s ability to fairly compete both at home and abroad.

NMPF will continue to work with USDEC in asking Trade Representative Ron Kirk, other trade officials in the Obama Administration, and members of Congress, to insist on the importance of expanding U.S. exports and facilitating trade. It will continue to oppose any expansion of U.S.-New Zealand dairy trade under TPP, given the very troubling dynamics that persist in that country’s dairy industry.



Hormel Foods Reports First Quarter Results

Hormel Foods Corporation today reported its performance for the fiscal year 2012 first quarter. All comparisons are to first quarter of fiscal 2011.

First Quarter Highlights
-      Diluted EPS of $.48, down 13 percent from $.55 per share
¨      Segment operating profit down 17 percent
¨      Dollar sales of $2.0 billion, up 6 percent
¨      Volume down 2 percent
¨      Grocery Products operating profit down 9 percent; volume down 6 percent; dollar sales down 3 percent
¨      Refrigerated Foods operating profit down 44 percent; volume flat; dollar sales up 7 percent
¨      Jennie-O Turkey Store operating profit up 4 percent; volume down 7 percent; dollar sales up 4 percent
¨      Specialty Foods operating profit down 4 percent; volume up 1 percent; dollar sales up 14 percent
¨      All Other (International) operating profit up 25 percent; volume flat; dollar sales up 17 percent

The company reported fiscal 2012 first quarter net earnings of $128.4 million, down 14 percent from earnings of $148.8 million a year earlier. Diluted earnings per share for the quarter were $.48 this year compared to $.55 per share last year. Sales totaled $2.04 billion, which was up 6 percent from fiscal 2011.

“Our first quarter earnings of 48 cents per share was the second best in our Company's history, albeit down from a year ago,” said Jeffrey M. Ettinger, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer.  “Sales grew six percent, with four of our five segments registering sales gains in the quarter.”

“I was pleased with the strong results achieved by our Jennie-O Turkey Store segment, led by increased retail value-added sales. Our International business also delivered a solid quarter, fueled by strong export sales. Results of our Refrigerated Foods segment were hindered by significantly lower pork operating margins, and our Grocery Products segment results were adversely impacted by softer sales in the center of the store,” commented Ettinger.

“We are encouraged by continued growth of our MegaMex Foods joint venture, led by increased sales of our DON MIGUEL products and our WHOLLY GUACAMOLE line. Our Foodservice group also achieved solid sales growth during the quarter,” stated Ettinger.



Land O’Lakes Reports 2011 Results

Land O’Lakes, Inc., today released its 2011 financial results, which included record sales and the company’s second-highest net earnings. Highlights of 2011 included:
-    Record net sales of $12.8 billion, up from $11.1 billion in 2010.
-    Net earnings of $182 million, the second-highest in Land O’Lakes’ history, up from 2010’s $178 million.
-    $108 million in cash returns to members, the cooperative’s third-highest annual cash return.

Positive Results in a Challenging Economy
Chris Policinski, Land O’Lakes President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “Our 2011 results reflect strong performance in a challenging economy and volatile marketplace.

“These results also continue a trend of strong performance.  Over the past three years, Land O’Lakes delivered its top three years in net earnings and cash returns to members, as well as two of our top three years in net sales.”

These positive results were driven by the strength of Land O’Lakes’ brands; solid performance by innovative new products; a continued focus on operating efficiency and risk management; and the disciplined pursuit of strategic growth initiatives.

“Agriculture and food production are among the best growth industries of our era,” Policinski added.  He cited the increasing demand for food, driven by an expanding global population, which is expected to increase from nearly 7 billion people today to more than 9 billion by 2050.

“Our performance, strong balance sheet and market momentum position Land O’Lakes to capitalize on growth opportunities in the marketplace, and deliver greater value for our members and customers.”

Sales and Earnings
Land O’Lakes 2011 net sales totaled $12.8 billion, up 15 percent from 2010’s $11.1 billion. These results include record revenues in the company Dairy Foods, Feed and Crop Inputs businesses.

Net earnings for 2011 totaled $182 million, up 2 percent from 2010’s $178 million.  Earnings for 2011 were impacted by $14.7 million in unrealized hedging losses (as of Dec. 31, 2011), while 2010’s earnings include the impact of $6.2 million in unrealized hedging gains.  Company officials noted that unrealized hedging is more an indicator of market conditions at a given time than of performance.

Balance Sheet
Total balance sheet debt, including capital leases, was $915 million at year-end, versus $618 million as of Dec. 31, 2010. This increase was mainly due to higher working capital use, stemming from increased product prices and business growth.  The company took advantage of historically low market interest rates to lock in attractive long-term debt during the year, including a $150 million, 10-year term loan at the parent level and a $60 million, five-year term loan at its Moark subsidiary.

The company’s Long-Term Debt-to-Capital ratio was 41.3 percent as of Dec. 31, 2011, versus 32.5 percent at the end of the prior year.  During 2011, the company received financial rating upgrades from both Standard and Poor’s and Moody’s Investors Services, achieving Investment Grade status with both agencies.
 
Business Unit Performance  

Dairy Foods
Land O’Lakes Dairy Foods business reported record sales of $4.3 billion, up 17 percent from 2010.  Dairy Foods achieved pretax earnings of $28.1 million for the year, compared to $50.3 million in pretax earnings for 2010.  These results reflect the impact of an uncertain general economy and late-year volatility in dairy markets.  Dairy Foods 2011 results include a $6.5 million unrealized hedging loss (as of Dec. 31, 2011), while 2010 results included a $4.2 million unrealized hedging gain.

While Dairy Foods volumes were mixed, with overall retail volume down 6 percent, margins were strong nearly across-the-board.  Notably, the company held its volume in its industry-leading branded butter and deli cheese product lines, and new, innovative products (like LAND O LAKES® spreadable tub butter and “Deli Health” cheese) performed well. 

The company’s Dairy Foods Business-to-Business operations outperformed the industry, with Foodservice volumes up 8 percent and Ingredients volumes up 1 percent.  During the year, Land O’Lakes repositioned its global Dairy Powders business, shifting from selling dairy-based powders (through a marketing agency) as an unbranded commodity to the marketing of value-added, branded powder to key commercial customers.

Crop Inputs
(Seed, Crop Protection Products, Retail Agronomy Solutions)

The company’s Crop Inputs business – Winfield Solutions, LLC – reported a record $4.0 billion in 2011 sales, up 10 percent from the previous year.  Pretax earnings in Crop Inputs were $140.4 million, down from 2010’s $144.8 million in pretax earnings.  Results for Crop Inputs in 2011 include a $0.6 million unrealized hedging loss, versus a $1.9 million unrealized hedging loss at year-end 2010.

Volumes were strong in most segments, with alfalfa seed up 25 percent, corn up 8 percent and crop protection products up 22 percent.

The company also continued to deliver industry-leading crop production insights and technologies.  Winfield Solutions expanded its unique Answer Plot® program, which gives growers a first-hand look at how products and technologies perform in the field at more than 180 demonstration sites.  The business also launched its new R7® crop production tool, which brings together Answer Plot® data, weather information and satellite imagery to help growers optimize productivity, profitability and sustainability.

Feed
The company’s Feed business achieved a record $3.9 billion in net sales, up 19 percent from 2010.  Feed generated $18.7 million in pretax earnings, versus $22.1 million in 2010.  Feed results for 2011 include a $7.1 million unrealized hedging loss at year-end, while 2010 results included a $2.6 million unrealized hedging gain.

Stronger livestock markets, innovation leadership and targeted marketing contributed to a 13 percent increase in Livestock feed volume, with volume up in all key species.  Lifestyle feed volume was down 5 percent, reflecting a decline in animals being fed (particularly in the equine segment).

Premium Lifestyle feeds, value-added Livestock feeds and the company’s industry- leading young animal Milk Replacers were Feed’s leading performers.

Layers/Eggs
The company’s Layers/Eggs business, Moark, LLC, achieved $599 million in sales, up 17 percent from 2010.  The eggs business reported a $3.3 million pretax loss for the year, compared to a $27.2 million pretax loss for 2010 (when results included a one-time charge for a legal settlement).  Unrealized hedging impacts in this business were not significant.

Volumes were strong in the Eggs business, up 6 percent overall and up 17 percent in higher-value branded and specialty eggs.  Those increases were offset by increased input costs, particularly feed.



Biobased Jobs, Grown and Made in America
USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack

USDA works everyday to help create jobs in rural America – without waiting for others in Washington to act.

Last week, as a part of President Obama’s White House Rural Council, we announced efforts to spur economic growth by helping businesses take advantage of the productivity of America’s farmers and ranchers.

Today, there are more than 3,000 companies producing more than 20,000 so-called bioproducts made from grasses, grains, oilseeds, and agricultural waste rather than petroleum. They range from cleaning supplies and personal care products to food packaging and turf for football stadiums.

The companies that manufacture these goods employ about 100,000 Americans – many of them in rural communities – by marrying together two important economic engines: agriculture and manufacturing.

At USDA, we think there is incredible potential for the industry to grow, innovate and create economic opportunity. So we’ve taken action to help the expand markets for these products.

One year ago, we created a biobased product label that will soon be featured on more than 500 products you can buy at a local grocery store or pharmacy. It will signal that you are buying a product that was grown and manufactured here in America.

And last week, the President announced steps to encourage the federal government to dramatically increase our purchases of biobased products.

Biobased cleaning goods and construction materials like carpet pads and insulation are grown and made in America, as are lubricants, paints, oils and paint removers used in aircraft, motor vehicles, and by the military.

As the federal government encourages use of these cost-competitive bioproducts over alternatives made from oil, it will mean more contracts for American businesses, and more American manufacturers creating good jobs.

As we lay the foundation for an economy that is built to last, this effort will create jobs, drive innovation, reduce our dependence on oil, and support incomes for farmers and ranchers. Americans can’t wait for us to help unleash the incredible potential of a biobased economy to create middle class jobs.