Friday June 16 Ag News

Nebraska’s Shell Creek Watershed Makes History for Successful Water Clean-Up Efforts

A major Nebraska watershed is making history today for the cleanup and reduction of Atrazine which has greatly reduced negative impacts on aquatic life and overall health of the area. Shell Creek’s water, fish, frogs and other aquatic life are the healthiest they’ve been in decades. This appears to be the first example of a stream being removed from the ‘Impaired Waters’ list that resulted from implementation of a comprehensive watershed management plan. Shell Creek includes more than 304,000 acres, stretching from Newman Grove to Schuyler. Atrazine is a common herbicide used to kill weeds. It’s linked to cancer in humans and can give aquatic life deformities.

This historic accomplishment took more than 12 years to complete. The Shell Creek Watershed Improvement Group (SCWIG) is a group of landowners and farmers who led the grassroots efforts in conservation. They worked collaboratively with a variety of partners on the local, state and federal level including the Lower Platte North Natural Resources District (LPNNRD), the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (NDEQ), USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other project partners. More than 240 landowners have participated in the program so far, putting more than 340 conservation practices on the land. Examples of these conservation management practices are no-till farming, filter and buffer strips, and cover crops. These efforts improve the quality of water draining into Shell Creek. As a result of these practices, the Atrazine level has significantly declined and is now supporting aquatic life in the creek.

“I grew up a quarter mile away from Shell Creek and my siblings and I spent a lot of time there,” said Matt Bailey, Co-chairman of the Shell Creek Watershed Improvement Group (SCWIG). “It's a great feeling to think that my kids will be able to see the shells I didn't see in the creek. The stewardship of this water is the responsibility of all of us as producers and landowners. Getting it delisted is a testimony to all our efforts within SCWIG and especially those who put management practices on their own farms. They're the reason this is becoming a reality.”

“This is the perfect example of how Nebraskans pull together to solve our common challenges,” said Governor Pete Ricketts. “Working together, local community leaders collaborated with state and federal agencies, and together they are accomplishing their goals of cleaning up the watershed and being good stewards of our natural resources.”

Shell Creek was first added to the Clean Water Act List of Impaired Waters by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2006 due to impairment of aquatic life caused by Atrazine. Out of 48 water samples collected from Shell Creek between 2007 and 2016, only seven samples exceeded the water quality standard of 12 micrograms per liter of Atrazine, allowing the stream to be delisted for Atrazine impairment in 2018.

“It was the grassroots initiative of the Shell Creek Watershed Improvement Group to promote and grow interest in the restoration plan and the producers who stepped up to adopt conservation practices that led to this achievement.” said Jim Macy, Director of the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality. “NDEQ helped develop the restoration plan for Shell Creek and helped secure funding for its implementation. This was great teamwork by all people and partners involved.”

Educating Nebraska’s youth about the importance of water quality has also been a large part to this project. Newman Grove High School and Schuyler Central High School have developed summer volunteer programs to take samples of Shell Creek’s water, sediment and bugs to help monitor the creek’s water quality throughout the years. These samples provide valuable information on the creek’s health and the students get a rare hands-on opportunity to learn more about Nebraska’s natural resources.

“This is a major milestone,” said Eric Gottschalk, Lower Platte North Natural Resources District’s general manager. “We know SCWIG will continue to work hard in keeping Shell Creek healthy. We also know there are other creeks and rivers that could benefit from developing groups like SCWIG. We believe we have a program model that works well in Nebraska and we’re ready to share it with anyone interested.”



FSA County Committee Nomination Process Launches in Cuming County

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) encourages America’s farmers and ranchers to consider running for their local county committee or nominate candidates for committee. According to Sarah Beck, USDA Farm Service Agency Cuming County Executive Director, FSA will accept nominations for the Cuming County Committee beginning Friday, June 15, 2018.

Producers across the country are already serving on committees where they play a critical role in the day-to-day operations of FSA, making important decisions on programs dealing with disaster and conservation, emergencies, commodity loan price support, county office employment and other agricultural issues.

“County committees are unique to FSA and allow producers to have a voice on federal farm program implementation at the local level,” said Beck. “It is also important that committees are comprised of members who fairly represent the diverse demographics of production agriculture for their community. I encourage all producers, including women, minority and beginning farmers and ranchers, to participate in the nomination and election process.”

Nationwide, more than 7,700 dedicated farmers and ranchers serve on FSA county committees, which consist of three to 11 members and meet once a month, or as needed. Members serve three-year terms.

Producers can nominate themselves or others. Organizations, including those representing beginning, women and minority producers, may also nominate candidates to better serve their communities. To be eligible to serve on an FSA county committee, producers must participate or cooperate in an FSA program and reside in the area where the election is being held.

This year, nominations and elections for Cuming County will be held in local administrative area 2, which includes the townships of Cuming, Garfield, Neligh, Sherman North, Sherman South, St Charles North, and St Charles South.

To be considered, a producer must sign an FSA-669A nomination form. The form and other information about FSA county committee elections are available at www.fsa.usda.gov/elections, or from the Cuming County FSA office. All nomination forms for the 2018 election must be postmarked or received in the local FSA office by Aug. 1, 2018. Visit farmers.gov for more information.

Election ballots will be mailed to eligible voters beginning Nov. 5, 2018.



Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Recognizes 2018 Retail Value Steer Challenge Winners

The annual Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation (NCF) Retail Value Steer Challenge (RVSC) winners were honored at the NC Foundation lunch on June 7 during the Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) Midyear Meeting in Grand Island.

The RVSC is the primary fundraiser for NC Foundation with money raised supporting youth & adult educational programs, scholarships, research & infrastructure projects, history preservation and judging teams at colleges in Nebraska.

Three winners of each of the three categories were awarded for their steer’s performance in the 19th annual Retail Value Steer Challenge. First place in the Average Daily Gain category was awarded to the steer owned by Jim Ramm of Atkinson, Don Schmaderer of Stuart and Paul Sedlacek of Pierce. Second place went to a steer owned by the University of Nebraska Animal Science Faculty and third place was awarded to Loseke Feedlot of Columbus and Folken Feedyard of Leigh. Graff Cattle of Ogallala owned the steer that won the Carcass Value category with John Schroeder of Cozad and Kelly Bruns of North Platte receiving second with their steer. A steer owned by Miles Cattle Company of McCool Junction and Trampe Cattle Company of Amherst received the third place honors. First place in the Total Value Category was a steer owned by the Northeast Nebraska Cattlemen Association. Second place went to the steer owned by Bergers’s Herdmasters of Stapleton and third place went to Wayne & Roxanne Eatinger of Thedford.

The NC Foundation would like to recognize the support of Darr Feedlot, Cozad, for administration and feeding of the steers that were entered into this year’s challenge. In addition, the Foundation appreciates the following sponsors for their support of the Retail Value Steer Challenge:Arthur J. Gallagher & Co., Bill’s Volume Sales, Inc., Elanco Animal Health and Zinpro Performance Minerals.



Summer Recruitment Contest

This summer the Nebraska Corn Growers Association wants YOU to talk with your family, friends, & neighbors about joining the association!

Between July 1st and September 30th, the member who recruits the most people to join the Nebraska Corn Growers Association will receive a CUSTOM Bison Brand 50 Quart Cooler and a Nebraska Corn Prize Pack. The winner will be able to choose an image for the lid of the cooler OR NeCGA will come to the winner’s farm and take a photo, winners choice.

*Must have a minimum of 5 recruits to qualify. Prize package worth over $350.*

Recruiting points will be calculated using NCGA’s Recruiter Points System.
Current or Lapsed (less than 24 months) Members
1 point for each 1-year membership
3 points for each 3-year membership

New Members (Lapsed greater than 24 months)
3 points for each 1-year membership
9 points for each 3-year membership

Memberships must be turned into the office or completed online by 11:59 PM on September 30th.  Questions? Contact the NeCGA office at (402) 438-6459 OR email Morgan at mwrich@necga.org. 



ICGA Discuss Key Policy Issues at 2018 Roundtables

Policy development at the Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) is a grassroots process. Each year, ICGA hosts roundtable meetings in local communities across the state to gather insight and feedback on priorities from farmer members. The meetings, which will be held on June 25 & 26 and July 11 & 12 this year, allow ICGA members to come together, share a meal, and discuss key issues impacting corn farmers. Policies brought forward and approved at roundtable meetings go on to the Annual ICGA Grassroots Summit on August 24-25 for the ICGA delegates to debate for adoption into the ICGA Policy Book. This process enables the organization to take-action in lobbying for and supporting sound policy development and pro-farmer legislation. 

June 25
    Le Mars – Blue Bunny Ice Cream Parlor, 115 Central Ave. NW (5:30-8:30 p.m.)
    Ogden – The Lucky Pig, 113 W Walnut St. (5:30-8:30 p.m.)
    Sheffield –  Sukup Facility, 1555 255th St. (5:30-8:30 p.m.) 

June 26
    Grinnell – Key Co-op, 330 West St. S (11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
    Red Oak –  Agrivision, 2405 N 4th St. (11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
    Oxford Junction – Willimack Farms, 1418 108th Ave. (5:30-8:30 p.m.) 

July 11
    Mt. Pleasant – Airport Road Vineyard and Winery, 2555 Lexington Ave. (11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
    Emmetsburg – The Shores at Five Island, 14 North Lawler St. (5:30-8:30 p.m.)
    Denison –Boulders, 2507 Boulder Dr. (5:30-8:30 p.m.) 

July 12
    Albia – Smith Fertilizer & Grain, 805 IA-5 (11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
    Creston – Gavilon Grain, 300 Osage St. (5:30-8:30 p.m.)
    Fayette – Upper Iowa, 605 Washington St. (5:30-8:30 p.m.)

Roundtables are FREE for ICGA members, but we encourage advance registration. Meals (lunch or dinner) will be included at each session. If you can't attend a roundtable but wish to bring forth a policy resolution for consideration, please contact your local ICGA Board member. Go to iowacorn.org/roundtables for more information. 



Iowa Corn Attends Corn Utilization and Technology Conference with Iowa State Students

A delegation of Iowa Corn Promotion Board (ICPB) farmer-leaders, staff and seven Iowa State University students and staff attended the 2018 Corn Utilization and Technology Conference (CUTC) in St. Louis last week to network and see the latest in corn uses technology and research.

Joseph P. Polin, from Iowa State University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, took home the top prize in the National Corn Growers Association’s Corn Utilization and Technology Conference 2018 Poster contest. Polin's poster titled "Overcoming the challenges of using corn stover as feedstock in autothermal pyrolysis" looks at controlling how corn stover burns itself to make bio-oil.

Joe is the third ISU student in a row to win the poster session; ISU students sponsored by the Iowa Corn Research and Business Development Committee won the 2014, 2016, and 2018 poster session. Polin’s research seeks to take abundant corn stover biomass and convert the lignocellulose fractions into valuable products more economically and efficiently by improving the scalability and process economics of corn stover pyrolysis systems.

“CUTC draws everyone from corn producers to value-added product producers, from students to seasoned scientists and engineers to see the latest industry developments,” stated Iowa Corn Industrial Innovations Manager Alex Buck. “This conference is a great way to showcase and see work done throughout the corn value chain.” Buck gave a presentation titled, “Monoethylene Glycol from Corn: A single-step, thermocatalytic, continuous process” at the conference. His talk focused on ICPB’s current research project developing a proprietary and patented production method using corn in the industrial manufacturing of a raw material, monoethylene glycol (MEG). MEG is an industrial chemical used in the manufacture of antifreeze, plastic bottles for pop or bottled water, and polyester clothes. Today, MEG makes up about 30 percent of bottles and polyester.

By improving the manufacturing processes for bio-based materials, this method will continue to expand the renewable products market. Meaning enhanced yield of corn-based MEG over competition makes this biobased process more competitive with less waste than current biobased MEG.

“As more manufacturers seek ways to produce their products from greener materials with greater efficiency while reducing their dependence on fossil fuels, ICPB’s corn-based MEG has the potential to meet a vast and growing market,” said Iowa Corn Research and Business Development Committee Chairman Pete Brecht. “By improving the manufacturing processes for bio-based materials, this method will continue to expand the renewable products market. Meaning enhanced yield of corn-based MEG over competition makes this bio-based process more competitive with less waste than current bio-based MEG. This one switch to a more renewable material will reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil and improve the environmental footprint for hundreds of consumer products.”

Since 1987, CUTC has brought together leading innovators in the corn industry. The biennial conference provides a venue that allows scientific exchange and engaging discussions for researchers, farmers and other industry leaders.



NCBA "Looks Forward" to Public Meeting on Fake Meat

Today National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Director of Government Affairs Danielle Beck issued the following statement in response to the Food and Drug Administration’s announcement that they will hold a public meeting on foods produced using animal cell culture technology:

“NCBA looks forward to participating fully in the public meeting, and will use the opportunity to advocate for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversight of lab-grown fake meat products. The Food and Drug Administration’s announcement disregards the authorities granted to USDA under the Federal Meat Inspection Act, as well as USDA's significant scientific expertise and long-standing success in ensuring the safety of all meat and poultry products. Under the current regulatory framework, FDA plays an important role in terms of ensuring the safety of food additives used in meat, poultry, and egg products. All additives are initially evaluated for safety by FDA, but ultimately FSIS maintains primary jurisdiction.”

According to the FDA, the public meeting is intended to provide interested parties and the public with an opportunity to comment on emerging lab-grown protein technology. The public meeting is not a formal decision and will not prevent USDA from asserting primary jurisdiction. 

USDA oversight of lab-grown protein products is consistent with existing federal laws. Lab-grown protein products fall within statutory definitions of a meat byproduct. USDA is responsible for ensuring the safety and proper labeling of all such products under the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA) and the Poultry Products Inspection Act (PPIA).



Trump’s $50 Billion Tariff Announcement Harsh Reality for Soybean Growers

Weeks of speculation have ended with new anxiety for growers of America’s leading agricultural export: President Trump announced today he is indeed levying 25 percent tariffs on $50 billion of Chinese products under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. This decision not only inflames trade tensions between the two countries, but also means U.S. soybean growers, who shipped roughly $14 billion in soybeans last year to China – their number one export market – stand to quickly feel the impact of retaliatory tariffs.

The American Soybean Association (ASA), on behalf of all U.S. soy growers, is disappointed in the Administration’s decision, which follows weeks of imploring the President and his team to find non-tariff solutions to address Chinese intellectual property theft and not place American farmers in harm’s way. ASA has twice requested a meeting with President Trump to discuss how increasing soy exports to China can be a part of the solution to the U.S. trade deficit without resorting to devastating tariffs.

Chinese government officials have announced that their response to Trump’s widespread trade tax on Chinese goods will be quick and certain, which is bad news for soybeans farmers. A study by Purdue University economists predicts that soybean exports to China could drop by as much as 65 percent if China imposes a retaliatory 25 percent tariff on U.S. soybeans.

Davie Stephens, Kentucky soybean grower and Vice President of ASA, is among growers distraught over the newly-announced tariffs, and China’s possible retaliation.

“Crop prices have dropped 40 percent in the last five years, and farm income is down 50 percent compared to 2013. As a soy grower, I depend on trade with China. China imports roughly 60 percent of total U.S. soybean exports, representing nearly 1 in 3 rows of harvested soybeans,” Stephens said. “This is a vital and robust market that soy growers have spent over 40 years building and, frankly, it’s not a market U.S. soybean farmers can afford to lose.”

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has released a revised list of Chinese goods subject to the additional 25 percent tariff stemming from concerns over intellectual property theft and technology transfers. U.S. Customs and Border Protection will begin collecting the additional duties on the bulk of that list beginning July 6.

“As the country’s leading agricultural export at $27 billion, trade is vital for soybean growers and, while China has not yet directly retaliated against imports of U.S. soybeans, it seems imminent,” Stephens said. “ASA continues to advocate for increased trade opportunities, not trade-reducing tariffs, to help boost agriculture industries and rural communities in the current down farm economy,” said Stephens.

ASA is among grower and industry groups whose members have been imploring Congress to urge the Administration to back away from tariffs and return to the negotiating table with China. Under the hashtag #TradeNotTariffs, members of these organizations have continued to amp up awareness on social media, sharing with the public how trade tariffs could devastate their livelihoods.



Iowa Soybean Association statement on White House announcement to move forward with China tariffs

 The White House announced today that it’s moving forward with 25 percent tariffs on up to $50 billion of Chinese products imported into the U.S. China responded in-kind, saying it will move swiftly to protect its interests. The speculation is Beijing will retaliate by imposing tariffs of its own on $50 billion in American exports, including agricultural products. Iowa Soybean Association President Bill Shipley of Nodaway released the following statement:

“The use of food as a weapon in trade disputes is of grave concern to Iowa and U.S. farmers. It threatens the security and stability of the people and economies of China and the United States, including millions of U.S. farm families.

“There are no winners in a trade war and one that includes soybeans will not start or end well. U.S. soybean prices have already plummeted by about $1 per bushel since the beginning of June. Prices will likely drop further should the tariffs be imposed. This will further pressure agricultural families and businesses already struggling with below break-even commodity prices. Duties on imported soybeans will also negatively impact China’s soy processors, animal and aquaculture producers and its people.

“An ongoing trade dispute with China risks stoking anti-Americanism sentiment that could jeopardize the strength of trade relations between the two countries that have taken U.S. soybean farmers nearly 35 years to develop.

“Iowa soybean farmers recognize the legitimate trade issues involving China and the U.S. We’re also keenly aware of the trade imbalance that exists between the two countries. China consumes nearly 62 percent of all soybeans traded globally. Approximately 33 percent of total U.S. soybean production is destined for China, fulfilling almost 40 percent of China’s total soybean imports. Ironically, U.S. soybean and agriculture can help improve the trade imbalance by increasing sales to China. This is a much better course of action than suspending sales.

“Farmers are resilient, resourceful and used to dealing with situations out of their control. The best way to counteract negative financial impacts of tariffs is to go on offense. The Iowa Soybean Association will continue to work with partners to build demand both here and abroad, find more efficient ways to export our product and ensure policies and regulations are fair and workable for farmers.”



Statement by Steve Nelson, President, Regarding New Tariffs on Chinese Products

“Today’s action by the Trump administration to move forward with $50 billion worth of tariffs on Chinese products continues to raise substantial concerns throughout the entire agricultural community. We have major issues in our trading relationship with China, and we fear today’s action will only amplify those problems.” 

“Preliminary Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) analysis shows on a per unit basis, Nebraska’s export relationship with China in 2016 amounted to $2.29/bushel for soybeans, $26.36/head for beef (hides & skins), and $3.82 per head for pork. These figures are quite significant to the overall dollar amount farmers and ranchers receive for these commodities.”

“On a per Nebraska county basis, Cuming County, generates roughly $26 million because of agricultural trade with China. Furthermore, eight counties exceed $20 million in terms of value of exports to China and 41 counties exceed $10 million. The average export value to China across all counties is $9.4 million.” 

“On a per farm basis, Phelps County generates the most from trade with China at $47,332 per farm; 17 counties exceed $25,000 per farm in terms of export value to China. The average export value to China per farm across all counties is about $16,600. “

“While the entirety of the U.S./China trading relationship won’t disappear overnight, these actions will have significant consequences which have the potential to greatly damage farm and ranch families for years to come.”



Nebraska Corn disappointed by Chinese tariffs

This morning, President Trump announced his plans to move forward with Section 301 tariffs on $50 billion in Chinese imports. The first round, $34 billion in tariffs, would go into effect July 6, 2018. The remaining tariffs are expected to be implemented at a later date by the U.S. Trade Representative.

Following the announcement, China’s Ministry of Commerce said they would swiftly respond with tariffs of “equal scale, equal intensity.” The tariffs are expected to hit U.S. ag products, but China’s full list is not yet known.

The Nebraska Corn Board and Nebraska Corn Growers Association are opposed to the tariffs because they disrupt trade policy and add fuel to an emerging trade war.

“Nebraska corn farmers are already struggling to break even due to low corn prices, but these tariffs aren’t hurting just farmers” said David Merrell, chairman of the Nebraska Corn Board and farmer from St. Edward. “More than 1 million American jobs are supported by U.S. ag exports alone. A trade war with China will deeply impact U.S. farmers, U.S. workers and U.S. consumers.”

China has already responded to steel and aluminum tariffs implemented by the U.S. government in March, which included U.S. ethanol (tariffed at 15 percent) and U.S. pork (at 25 percent). China’s counter to today’s U.S. announcement includes a list of 106 categories of imported items facing 25 percent tariffs. These are scheduled to take effect once the U.S. policy is implemented.

“Agriculture is a U.S. trade champion and the president’s tariffs have the potential to hurt our country’s farmers” said Dan Wesley, president of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association and farmer from Morse Bluff. “Rural America was a strong supporter of President Trump during his campaign due to his commitment to farmers. We want to work with President Trump to help him understand the damage the tariffs are causing to rural America and hopefully he will reconsider.”



U.S. Grains Council Statement On Imposition Of Tariffs On Chinese Goods
President and CEO Tom Sleight

“The farmers and exporters we represent have been here before regarding China and they are well aware of what it’s like to deal with tariffs, counter-tariffs and policy restrictions. Since 2010, we have been adversely impacted by trade policy actions by China against U.S. distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS), sorghum, ethanol and corn. China is a very important market for U.S. coarse grains and their co-products, but so too is the rest of the world. We will stay closely engaged with the China market and its importance to U.S. agriculture, but we will also redouble our efforts in the rest of the world to expand demand.

“We are concerned any tariff opens this market to our competitors and locking out U.S. products doesn’t mean trade stops – it means other partners will take our place. Bottom line: tariff battles are never productive.

“We trust the leaders at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and the White House know how critical open markets are to our industry and appreciate their support during this process and in this tense time.”



Farmers for Free Trade Statement on Administration Approval of $50 Billion in 301 Tariffs

Farmers for Free Trade Executive Director, Brian Kuehl released the following statement following reports that the Administration will move forward with $50 billion in tariffs on China which are expected to result in heavy retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural exports.

“For American farmers this isn’t theoretical anymore, it’s downright scary. It’s no longer a negotiating tactic, it’s a tax on their livelihoods. Within days, soybean, corn, wheat and other American farmers are likely to be hit with retaliatory tariff of up to 25% on exports that keep their operations afloat. When they do, they’re not going to remain silent.

“The imposition of these tariffs is not only a blow to our farmers, it’s a win for our competitors. When American soybeans and corn become more expensive, South America wins. When beef becomes more expensive, Australia wins. As this trade war drags on, farmers will rightly question why our competitors are winning while we’re losing.

“Farmers for Free Trade will continue to hold town hall meetings across the country this summer to ensure farmer’s voices are being heard. The message will be loud and clear: American farmers demand that elected officials support them by ending this trade war.”




Reality of China Trade Tensions Demands Strong Plan to Protect Family Farmers and Ranchers, NFU Says

President Donald Trump today announced that his administration will impose 25 percent tariffs on Chinese technology imports to the tune of $50 billion. The first round of tariffs, worth $34 billion, are set to take effect on July 6.

National Farmers Union, a family farm organization in support of strong trade enforcement, called on the administration to work with Congress to ensure family farmers do not bear the brunt of retaliation that is sure to follow the tariff actions. Secretary Perdue should work with congressional leadership and agriculture committees to craft a farm bill that protects against market volatility and severe price swings, according to NFU President Roger Johnson.

Johnson issued the following statement:
“Farmers Union fully supports strong trade enforcement to achieve fair and balanced trade markets. We also support the administration’s goal of reducing the enormous U.S. trade deficit. But our organization grows increasingly concerned that this administration does not have a plan to ensure family farmers and ranchers aren’t thrown under the bus for the sake of these goals.

“None of the trade market disruption occurring presently should be looked at in isolation. The administration must work with Congress to develop a comprehensive solution to ensure family farmers can continue to provide for the nation. Fortunately, the current farm bill drafts moving through Congress present an opportunity for the administration to do just that. And the current programs within the farm bill, if provided adequate resources, could provide a strong safety net.

“Farmers Union strongly urges the administration to move swiftly to put in place measures that ensure farmers and ranchers can survive the current slump in the farm economy and volatility in international trade markets that is sure to follow the imposition of new tariffs.”



China Hits U.S. Agriculture with Retaliation

China placed a 25 percent retaliatory tariff on multiple U.S. goods, including sorghum. The retaliatory tariff also applies to U.S. soybeans, cotton, wheat, vegetables, beef, pork and others and will go into effect on July 6. This action was in response to the U.S. issuing a 25 percent tariff earlier today on 1,102 Chinese goods.

Today's tariff announcement comes a month after China terminated anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations into U.S. sorghum, which ended the 178.6 percent duty. The newly enforced 25 percent tariff will bring higher prices for Chinese consumers who purchase over half of U.S. sorghum exports. National Sorghum Producers Chairman and Nebraska farmer Don Bloss issued the following statement:

"National Sorghum Producers, alongside our producers, stakeholders and partners, have already seen the market uncertainty and price fluctuations that occur when China retaliates on U.S. goods. We urge President Trump and the Administration to move forward with constructive trade negotiations that will end tariffs on U.S. agriculture, especially during times of existing economic stress.

"We understand the grave impact tariff decisions can inflict on producers. American farmers depend on trade with China, and these tariffs will have devastating effects on U.S. agriculture. We greatly value our business relationship with Chinese buyers and hope to see this win-win relationship move forward. We have witnessed the Administration's efforts in positive trade negations in the past that lifted sanctions on U.S. sorghum and hope to see similar efforts going forward.

 "National Sorghum Producers will continue to work with and encourage officials to achieve long-term trade solutions with China. Protecting our markets remains the No. 1 priority for U.S. sorghum farmers and the agriculture industry."



 Undeniably Dairy Campaign Kicks Off Second Year in June

For the second year in a row, dairy farmers, cooperatives, brands and other industry stakeholders in recognizing June Dairy Month by getting involved in the Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy’s Undeniably Dairy initiative.

Throughout the summer, Undeniably Dairy is promoting a new chapter in its multi-year campaign to celebrate dairy’s innate goodness. This latest endeavor will celebrate all those who are “Undeniably Devoted to Dairy,” from farmers to chefs and everyone in between.

Undeniably Dairy – funded by dairy farmers through their checkoff – will reach consumers who have questions about dairy through nationally recognized podcasts, digital and media partnerships, and by farmers and other members of the dairy community who will share personal stories of devotion. Farmers work with experts every day that help ensure healthy cows and responsibly produced milk.

For cooperatives and producers who want to share stories of how they are “Undeniably Devoted” to their livelihoods, here are some ways to celebrate:
-    Take a picture of your employees, veterinarians, nutritionists, milk haulers, and others. Share it along with a story of their devotion on your social channels using #undeniablydairy.
-    Share content from the Dairy Hub about the undeniably devoted – you can find an Undeniably Dairy resource link on the home page. If you haven't joined the Dairy Hub yet, register here.
-    Talk about those devoted to dairy when conducting farm tours or talking with neighbors.
-    Encourage friends and family to do the same.




 NMPF Joins Dairy Groups to Launch Campaign on Dairy’s Economic Impact

To help promote the U.S. dairy industry as a job-creating and exports machine, National Milk Producers Federation has joined the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) and the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) to launch a year-long campaign titled “Got Jobs? Dairy Creates Jobs, Exports Create More.”

Most Americans know milk and other dairy products are an essential part of a healthy diet. But less well-known is dairy’s contribution to the health of the U.S. economy and the economies of every state across the country. This storytelling campaign aims to shine a brighter, data-driven spotlight on the positive effects of dairy’s economic engine.

Over the next year, the three dairy groups will share in-depth data and compelling narratives featuring hardworking dairy farmers, innovative dairy company employees, resourceful retailers and many others throughout the food supply chain at its website GotDairyJobs.org. The site will offer monthly features, videos and data-driven facts that demonstrate dairy’s continued impact on jobs, tax revenue and communities around the country. Using #GotDairyJobs, the dairy industry will amplify the campaign and create the dairy jobs conversation on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

“As milk continues its journey from farm to table, it becomes a job-creation machine, employing farm workers, truck drivers, construction workers, factory workers, retailers and even cargo ship captains navigating the ocean to ports in fast-growing countries demanding more dairy than their own countries can produce,” said Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF. “The United States is uniquely positioned to meet this growing global need, which allows U.S. dairy to provide opportunities for job creation and growth in the United States.”



EPA MOVES TO REPLACE WOTUS

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today moved to replace the Clean Water Act regulation issued in 2015 under the Obama administration. Known as the Waters of the U.S. rule (WOTUS), the regulation expanded the EPA’s jurisdiction over U.S. waters to include, among other water bodies, upstream waters and intermittent and ephemeral streams, such as the kind farmers use for drainage and irrigation. Last year, a federal court of appeals put a nationwide stay on WOTUS. Subsequently, the Supreme Court said authority over WOTUS belonged to a federal district court, slowing the process to block implementation of the rule. Currently, two different federal district courts, in cases covering 24 separate states, have issued injunctions against its enforcement. The Trump administration has consistently expressed its intent to repeal and replace WOTUS and today sent a new rule for review by the Office of Management and Budget.



INDIA, U.S. AGREE TO TRADE AND ECONOMIC TALKS

The United States and India this week announced plans enter into discussions on expanding their bilateral trade and economic relationships. The announcement comes after Indian Commerce and Industry Minister, Suresh Prabhu, met this week with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and U.S.  Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. The National Pork Producers Council has been working closely with the administration to gain market access to India.      



Brazil's Soybean Exports to Argentina Near 250,000 mt

Crushers in Argentina, which is experiencing its worst drought in decades, have imported 245,000 mt of Brazilian soybeans so far this year, more than the last seven years combined, and the total is expected to rise.

According to official data from Brazil, exports to Argentina reached 109,000 mt last month, taking the total to nearly a quarter of a million tonnes so far this year.

It imported 209,000 mt in the past seven years from its neighbour.

Argentina, the world's third largest producer and exporter of soybeans and the largest exporter of soymeal and soyoil, has suffered a dry summer that has baked its crop and slashed soybean production by almost 40% to about 35 million mt.

In order to keep crushers running and meet contractual commitments to sell soymeal and soyoil, Argentina's crushers have bought almost 500,000 mt from the US.

But while that is for delivery in the next crop year, starting in September, crushers had been seeking more immediate purchases from Brazil.

However, a trucker strike that crippled the country's transportation network put a halt to those discussions.

The USDA said last month that it expected Argentina's imports of soybeans to reach 4 million mt this crop year, double the previous year's volume.

Argentina typically imports soybeans from Paraguay to press in its vast crushing industry.



Syngenta hits the road to commemorate National Pollinator Week

As National Pollinator Week (June 18–24) approaches, a Syngenta team is preparing to embark on a road trip up the Monarch Highway (Interstate 35) to bring awareness to some of the people who contribute to pollinator health and stewardship. The I-35 corridor is recognized as the Monarch Highway, because it parallels the central flyway of the monarch migration across the United States.

Throughout the week of June 18, the team will travel through Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, Iowa and Minnesota to meet with a diverse cross-section of researchers, conservationists and landowners who are helping protect pollinators and improve their health.

“Highlighting the many ways various individuals and organizations are helping pollinators thrive is the primary goal of this road trip,” said Caydee Savinelli, pollinator and IPM stewardship lead, Syngenta. “Pollinator health and stewardship is important to agriculture and Syngenta, and our Operation Pollinator program is making a positive impact. But caring for pollinators is much larger than any one company. Improving pollinator health and practicing good stewardship take the combined effort, support and expertise from multiple stakeholders.”

The approximately 1,700-mile road trip will include stops with experts at nearly a dozen locations. Their stories, photos, videos and quotes will be shared via social media, using #OperationPollinator.

“We’re looking forward to hearing from a variety of experts and sharing their insights via social media,” said Ann Bryan, senior manager, external communications, Syngenta. “There are many positive stories and examples of healthy pollinators and good stewardship practices, and we want to celebrate and shine a spotlight on these efforts.”

Follow the Syngenta road trip on social media, using #OperationPollinator. To learn more about Operation Pollinator and Syngenta’s commitment to pollinator health and stewardship, visit www.beehealth.org.