Monday December 3 Ag News

Report Finds $1 Billion Hit to Nebraska from Retaliatory Tariffs, Farm Bureau Offers Path Forward on Trade

A new report from the Nebraska Farm Bureau shows retaliatory tariffs imposed by U.S. trading partners in response to U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs have cut Nebraska farm level revenue between $700 million and $1 billion dollars in 2018. The report also shows the retaliatory tariffs have cost the state of Nebraska between $164 million and $242 million in lost labor income, in addition to the loss of 4,100 to 6,000 Nebraska jobs. In addition to identifying financial losses, the report “A Path Forward on Trade – Retaliatory Tariffs and Nebraska Agriculture,” also offers specific actions to eliminate retaliatory tariffs and secure long-term access for agriculture and other U.S. products into international markets.

“International trade is critical to agriculture. In most years the value of agriculture exports will equal roughly 30 percent of the total agriculture commodity receipts or sales for the state of Nebraska. Retaliatory tariffs make our U.S. products more expensive for international customers, meaning they buy less or buy from someplace else. This report provides a clear picture of how much we’ve lost due to those tariffs and the need to improve our trade relations,” said Steve Nelson, Nebraska Farm Bureau president.

The economic analysis in the report specifically examines the impacts of retaliatory tariffs on corn, soybeans, and hogs to the Nebraska economy. Beef is absent from the analysis as the major customers for U.S. beef like South Korea and Japan have not been subject to U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs and therefore have not implemented retaliatory tariffs.

“Fortunately for Nebraska, U.S. beef exports are actually projected to exceed $8 billion in 2018, a record high. The continued strong demand for our beef helps mitigate the losses in other commodities,” said Jay Rempe, Nebraska Farm Bureau senior economist and co-author of the report.

Using June 1, 2018 cash prices at Hastings, Nebraska, the analysis found retaliatory tariffs dampened corn prices by 14 to 21 cents per bushel and soybean prices by 95 cents to $1.54 per bushel. Similarly, the analysis found Nebraska pork price reductions in the range of $17.81 to $18.80 per head due to the tariffs.

“The total loss in Nebraska farm revenues due to the retaliatory tariffs ranges from $695 million to $1.026 billion so far in 2018,” said Rempe. “That’s roughly 11 to 16 percent of the export values of Nebraska agriculture goods in 2017.”

In terms of the broader Nebraska economy, the analysis further shows that when direct farm losses are combined with the state’s labor income losses, the total economic loss to the state of Nebraska from retaliatory tariffs climbs between $859 million and $1.2 billion.

“To put a $1.2 billion loss into perspective, every person in the state of Nebraska would need to contribute $632 to cover that volume of lost dollars. That’s a significant hit to our state’s economy,” said Rempe.

The report also recommends specific actions to eliminate retaliatory tariffs and improve market access for agriculture and other U.S. goods. Those actions include:
    Securing Congressional Approval and Finalization of the U.S., Mexico, Canada Agreement (USMCA).
    Elimination of U.S. Imposed Steel and Aluminum Tariffs.
    Swift Action to Secure a Free Trade Agreement with Japan.
    U.S. Inclusion in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) or Securing Bi-lateral Trade Agreements with CPTPP Nations.
    Securing a Trade Agreement with the European Union.
    Use of a Multi-National Approach with U.S. Trade Partners to Address China.

“These actions define a path forward in remedying the losses we’ve seen from the retaliatory tariffs imposed by our trading partners, but also present an opportunity to improve trade relations with our closest allies,” said Jordan Dux, Nebraska Farm Bureau’s director of national affairs and co-author of the report.

According to the report, finalization of the USMCA presents an opportunity to continue productive relations with the two largest consumers of Nebraska agricultural goods in Canada and Mexico. It also suggests the elimination of U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs will present an opportunity for the U.S. to get the most out of the USMCA agreement while opening the door for more positive trade relations with the European Union.

“Japan presents a major opportunity for Nebraska beef. However, because the U.S. is not a part of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) Nebraska beef producers stand to lose as part of that agreement has Japan lowering beef tariffs for CPTPP partner countries, like Canada. Nebraska beef producers will be at a major disadvantage in paying higher tariffs than our competitors unless the U.S. joins or secures similar bi-lateral agreements with these CPTPP member countries,” said Dux.

The report also suggests the collective actions open the door for a multi-lateral approach for the U.S. and its trading partners to push China on trade negotiations.

“By building a coalition with China’s neighbors and largest customers, the U.S. creates a path forward in trying to change China’s behavior when it comes to theft of intellectual property and failure of China to meet World Trade Organization rules and standards. China remains a major market for U.S. goods, especially soybeans. We need to hold China accountable and by using a multi-national approach improves our chances in moving China in the right direction,” said Dux.



NEFB: Progress Being Made on Property Taxes; Resolving Trade Issues Key to Agriculture’s Future

In his annual address at the Nebraska Farm Bureau Annual Meeting and Convention, Nebraska Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson told more than 350 farmers and ranchers from across the state that progress is being made in efforts to address the state’s overreliance on property taxes, a situation that has led to Nebraska being one of the highest property tax states in the nation. In his remarks, Nelson also highlighted the importance of the United States resolving trade disputes that have limited market access for Nebraska agriculture commodities into international markets, which are critical to the future of agriculture.

“Making significant change to state tax policy is like turning an aircraft carrier. It takes time. It’s large, It’s cumbersome. It doesn’t turn on a dime. But we are turning the corner on property taxes. This issue is no longer headed in the wrong direction. It’s headed in the right direction,” said Nelson, Dec. 3.

Nelson told attendees that more and more state senators have heard from their constituents and understand the need and importance of fixing the property tax issue.

“There was a time, not too long ago, when I would testify at the Capitol or talk to senators about the problem of property taxes being used to fund the responsibilities of the state. It was obvious they didn’t understand the issue and showed little interest doing something about it. If you walk into the Capitol today, you would be hard pressed to find many senators who would say property taxes aren’t a major issue for their constituents,” said Nelson. “Much of that change has to do with the collective efforts of our members and organization to make those concerns known.”

According to Nelson, partnerships with other interests will be needed to secure the votes necessary to advance a property tax relief measure in the Legislature in the upcoming legislative session.

“We are working closely with the other agriculture groups in the state. We are working closely with our rural and urban senators. We are working closely with all those who can help us lower our state’s property tax burden. Nebraska Farm Bureau remains laser focused on resolving this issue,” said Nelson.

Nelson also pointed to Nebraska Farm Bureau’s work to promote trade at the national and international level as being key to the future for Nebraska agriculture.

“We must continue to push for greater market access and market opportunities for the crops and livestock we produce here in Nebraska. Nearly 96 percent of the world’s population resides outside the U.S. These are people whose incomes are rising and their desire and appetite for American and Nebraska produced farm goods is growing,” said Nelson. “For Nebraska agriculture to be successful we must develop new markets, lower trade barriers, encourage beneficial trade agreements, and capitalize new opportunities by building trust and being engaged in the markets that matter.”

Nelson noted that few things create more uncertainty and downward price pressure in agriculture, than trade disruptions.

“The retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. imposed steel and aluminum tariffs have made it difficult for many in agriculture over the past year. While there are certainly positives in the new deal recently signed between the United States, Mexico, and Canada, and the deal to protect our interests in South Korea, it’s critical we continue to push forward with more trade agreements with our key partners, including the European Union and Japan; a nation whose appetite for Nebraska beef and Nebraska agriculture products only continues to grow,” said Nelson.

Nelson also pointed out that negotiation, not tariffs, provide the best path toward solving trade issues.

“There are plenty of competitors in the global market looking to displace American agriculture. Lost markets are difficult to recover. It can take years to do so; if it can be done at all,” said Nelson.

Nelson specifically spoke to the need to address trade issues with China, a country that has been the largest customer for U.S. soybeans and the third largest trading partner for Nebraska agriculture commodities and goods, in addition to the need for the U.S. to engage in improved trade relations with countries engaged in the new Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

“Clearly, issues with China must be addressed. Getting trade deals done with the European Union, Japan, and others, is the best way to apply more pressure to China and give us more leverage in negotiations,” said Nelson. “Furthermore, President Trump’s promise in pulling the U.S. out of Trans-Pacific Partnership was that we would get bilateral deals done with those potential customers. That must happen to ensure there is a bright future and opportunity for Nebraska farm and ranch families.”



Livestock and Crop Protection Clinic

Nebraska Extension Boone County will be hosting a Livestock and Crop Protection Clinic Monday, December 10, 2018, 9 a.m. – noon at the Casey’s Building, Boone County Fairgrounds, Albion.

Topics covered will include: Agronomy Pest and Disease updates, grazing cornstalks, nutrient requirements, alternative protein sources and energy sources.

The clinic is open to the public. Please register at 402-395-2158 by December 7th. Coffee and donuts will be provided.



NBC December Board meeting

The Nebraska Beef Council Board of Director's will meet at the Nebraska Beef Council office at 1319 Central Ave., Kearney, NE. on December 17, 2018 beginning at 11:00 a.m. CST. The NBC Board of Directors will review evaluations for FY-2017-2018 authorizations request.  For more information, please contact Pam Esslinger at pam@nebeef.org. 



REMOVE NET WRAP AND TWINE
Bruce Anderson, NE Extension Forage Specialist

               Is twine or net wrap good feed?  Obviously not, but it can cause health problems if animals eat too much of it.

               Feeding hay is work.  To lighten the work load feeding hay, we often take short cuts and leave some twine or net wrap on the bales.  And whether we want them to or not, animals eat some of that twine.

               A few years ago I shared with you information about the potential for twine to accumulate in the rumen of cattle and cause obstruction.  Recent research at North Dakota State University has confirmed this risk and provided further information on what happens to twine when cattle eat it.

               In a series of experiments, the North Dakota research first showed that neither plastic net wrap nor biodegradable twine get digested by rumen microbes.  The old fashioned sisal twine, however, does get digested, although quite a bit more slowly than hay.

               In another study net wrap was included in the ration fed to steers for an extended period of time.  Then, 14 days before the steers were harvested the net wrap was removed from the feed to learn if the net wrap eaten earlier might get cleared out of the rumen and digestive system.  Turns out it was still in the rumen even after 14 days.

               So what should you do?  First, remember that it doesn’t appear to be a health concern very often.  And cows obviously are more at risk than feedlot animals.  So, it might be wise to remove as much twine, especially plastic twine, as can be removed easily from bales before feeding.  Twine in ground hay may be less of a problem since more of it is likely to pass completely through the animal.

               Think about how shortcuts and work-reducing actions you take this winter might affect your animals.  Then act accordingly.



Beef Conference Looks at Using Cropland to Reduce Feed Costs

Beef cattle producers and others in the beef industry who attend the Three-State Beef Conference will receive updates on current cow-calf and stocker topics from Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri extension beef specialists.

Erika Lundy, beef specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, said the program is designed to meet current needs of producers. The conference will be held on Jan. 15, 16 and 17, 2019.

“The 2019 conference will focus on reducing cow winter feed costs through optimizing the use of cropland," Lundy said. "Topics this year are especially timely considering the 2018 weather challenges, which limited opportunities for producers to harvest high-quality feedstuffs.”

Featured presenters are Dr. Mary Drewnoski and Kristen Ulmer, both from University of Nebraska—Lincoln and Dr. Eric Bailey from University of Missouri.

Drewnoski, beef systems specialist at UNL, will open the program with, “Filling in the gaps: using annual forages to meet late fall and early spring forage needs.” Following the evening meal, UNL extension beef systems educator Ulmer will speak on “Opportunities and management of corn residue for beef cattle.” Bailey, state beef nutritionist at MU will round out the program with his presentation, “Silage as the primary winter feed for beef cows.”

The conference is a traveling program, offered at three locations on different dates. At each site, registration begins at 5:30 p.m., and the program will start at 6 p.m. The registration fee is $25 per person and includes a meal and copy of the presentations. Preregistrations are appreciated by Friday, Jan. 11, to help with meal planning.

The Iowa location is the first session on Tuesday, Jan. 15 in Greenfield at the Warren Cultural Center, 154 Public Square. To register for this session, contact Kathy Rohrig at the ISU Extension and Outreach Office – Adair County at 641-743-8412 or krohrig@iastate.edu.

The Wednesday, Jan. 16 session is in Savannah, Missouri at 411 Court. The Nebraska session is Thursday, Jan. 17 at 620 1st Street, Syracuse, Neb.

The conference brochure has agenda information and a registration form... http://www.iowabeefcenter.org/events/3Statebrochure2019.pdf. 



USDA Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production

Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 513 million bushels in October 2018. Total corn consumption was up 3 percent from September 2018 but down 2 percent from October 2017. October 2018 usage included 92.0 percent for alcohol and 8.0 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 3.29 million bushels, up 17 percent from September 2018 and up 11 percent from October 2017. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 462 million bushels, was up 4 percent from September 2018 but down 2 percent from October 2017. Corn consumed in October 2018 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 90.6 percent and 9.4 percent respectively.

Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.98 million tons during October 2018, up 3 percent from September 2018 and up 1 percent from October 2017. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.35 million tons in October 2018, up 4 percent from September 2018 and up 1 percent from October 2017.

Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 282,713 tons during October 2018, down 4 percent from September 2018 and down 20 percent from October 2017. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 245,681 tons in October 2018, up 7 percent from September 2018 but down 19 percent from October 2017.

Fats and Oils: Oilseed Crushings, Production, Consumption and Stocks
Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 5.49 million tons (183 million bushels) in October 2018, compared with 5.08 million tons (169 million bushels) in September 2018 and 5.28 million tons (176 million bushels) in October 2017. Crude oil produced was 2.13 billion pounds up 10 percent from September 2018 and up 6 percent from October 2017. Soybean once refined oil production at 1.57 billion pounds during October 2018 increased 7 percent from September 2018 but decreased 2 percent from October 2017.

Canola seeds crushed for crude oil was 175,960 tons in October 2018, compared with 178,162 tons in September 2018 and 184,463 tons in October 2017. Canola crude oil produced was 146 million pounds down 4 percent from September 2018 and down 6 percent from October 2017. Canola once refined oil production at 132 million pounds during October 2018 was down 18 percent from September 2018 and down 9 percent from October 2017.

Cottonseed once refined oil production at 47.9 million pounds during October 2018 was up 11 percent from September 2018 but down 10 percent from October 2017.

Edible tallow production was 82.3 million pounds during October 2018, up 7 percent from September 2018 and up 13 percent from October 2017. Inedible tallow production was 320 million pounds during October 2018, down 3 percent from September 2018 but up 17 percent from October 2017. Technical tallow production was 111 million pounds during October 2018, up 2 percent from September 2018 and up 7 percent from October 2017. Choice white grease production at 105 million pounds during October 2018 increased 1 percent from September 2018 but decreased 4 percent from October 2017.



USMEF Statement on Developments at G-20 Summit

At the G-20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) was signed and the White House announced that the U.S. and China will enter negotiations on several key trade issues, including agricultural trade.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued the following statement:

USMEF supports the Trump administration’s efforts to finalize the USMCA and to continue seeking resolution of the metal tariffs dispute with Mexico and Canada, which resulted in retaliatory duties on U.S. pork and beef. U.S. meat exports have also become entangled in trade disputes with China, so it is encouraging to see the U.S. and China return to the negotiating table. Global demand for U.S. red meat is very strong, but exports cannot reach their full potential until the retaliatory duties imposed by Mexico, China and Canada are removed.



Buyers Show Strong Enthusiasm for U.S. Lamb’s Return to Japan

On Nov. 28, the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) launched U.S. lamb’s return to the Japanese market with an educational seminar and tasting event that drew more than 200 chefs, importers, purveyors, trade media and other key food industry professionals to The Strings hotel in Tokyo.

Following the detection of bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in the United States in December 2003, Japan was closed to U.S. lamb for nearly 15 years before reopening in July of this year. The USMEF event was designed to showcase the unique flavor profile and other positive attributes of U.S. lamb, introduce menu concepts featuring a variety of lamb cuts and connect suppliers with prospective customers.

“The turnout at the seminar was extremely impressive, and the enthusiasm was even more so,” said Greg Ahart, vice president of sales for Superior Farms. Ahart also serves on the American Lamb Board and the USMEF Executive Committee. “After a 15-year absence from the marketplace, seeing the amount of excitement and interest that was present in the room – both from the educational side, as well as when we proceeded to the presentation of products and the tasting – this event was truly something to be part of. I was completely blown away by the volume and genuineness of the interest expressed.”

USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom said U.S. lamb now has a long-awaited opportunity to capitalize on Japan’s strong demand for high-quality red meat products.

“The seminar and tasting confirmed that there is a lot of enthusiasm for the reentry of U.S. lamb into Japan,” Halstrom said. “We are in the midst of a ‘niku boom’ (meat boom) in Japan and there are many developing and emerging concepts, especially in the foodservice sector, for which high-quality U.S. lamb is a natural option.”

Ahart noted that the strong reputation and following U.S. pork and beef have established in Japan will provide positive momentum for U.S. lamb.

“The credibility that U.S. pork and beef have in this marketplace is very beneficial as we look at reintroducing lamb,” he explained. “Some of the more senior buyers in Japan have experience with U.S. lamb from before the market closure. But for the younger crowd at this event, which doesn’t have that historical knowledge, the reputation of the other two high-quality proteins really helps generate interest in American lamb.”

USMEF-Japan Director Takemichi Yamashoji also emphasized the need to attract younger customers, who will be a major focus of future USMEF tastings and promotions.

“There is an entire generation of Japanese consumers who have not tasted U.S. lamb,” he said. “USMEF wants to reach younger Japanese consumers and make them regular customers, so that U.S. lamb will be top-of-mind when they go out for fine dining.”

In addition to dishes that will be featured at high-end hotels and restaurants, Ahart added that the seminar was also an excellent venue for showcasing other lamb cuts that could gain traction in Japan.

“Lamb shanks and Denver ribs, which are comparable to short ribs, are examples of items that will have some applicability and interest in Japan as we build on the enthusiasm from the seminar,” Ahart said.

Japan’s imports of lamb and sheep meat are trending higher. Through October, imports in 2018 totaled 21,151 metric tons (up 11 percent from a year ago) valued at $171.2 million (up 20 percent and already a full-year record). Australian lamb currently holds about 60 percent market share, with New Zealand lamb capturing nearly 40 percent. Lamb and sheep meat enter Japan at zero duty.



Ontario Announces E15 Adoption As Soon As 2025

The U.S. ethanol industry applauds the release of the Province of Ontario’s Environment Plan, which includes a fuel requirement for conventional gasoline to be blended with 15 percent ethanol that could go in effect as early as 2025. Following this announcement, Growth Energy, U.S. Grains Council, and Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) issued the following statement:

“As one of the largest markets for ethanol, this is a huge milestone for Canada and the people of Ontario. Ontario recognizes the important environmental, economic, and health benefits that ethanol provides and we look forward to seeing this plan become a reality by 2025.”

Last year, Growth Energy and the U.S. Grains Council submitted comments to the Canada’s Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, urging them to look beyond E10 at higher blends like E15, and welcomed the commitment from the Ontario Province to move from a 5 percent blend to a 10 percent ethanol fuel blend by 2020.



NBB Asks Commerce for Rigorous Review of Argentina’s Biodiesel Subsidies

Today, the National Biodiesel Board Fair Trade Coalition submitted comments for the record on how the U.S. Department of Commerce should conduct recently initiated changed circumstances reviews (CCRs) of U.S. duties on Argentine biodiesel imports. Commerce imposed countervailing duty (CVD) and antidumping (AD) duty orders in January and April 2018, following investigations that found massively subsidized and dumped biodiesel imports from Argentina had significantly injured U.S. biodiesel producers.

The Coalition’s comments state, “Commerce must conduct a rigorous, comprehensive review of all relevant facts since its CVD and AD investigations, and not limit its consideration to the limited facts and narrow time period showcased by the Government of Argentina ('GOA') in its requests for reviews.”

In the letter, the Coalition further urges Commerce to undertake reviews that are no less rigorous than its annual administrative review process, with appropriate periods of review, extensive fact-finding, and adherence to strict administrative procedures. The Coalition asks Commerce to review all of Argentina’s actions since January 2017 relating to the provision of below-market priced soybeans to the biodiesel industry through high export taxes. Commerce invited the comments following a November 19 meeting with National Biodiesel Board (NBB) representatives.

Kurt Kovarik, NBB’s Vice President of Federal Affairs, added, “Argentina has made more than a dozen changes to its subsidies since January 2017. In fact, throughout 2017 – even after Commerce completed its original investigation – Argentina continued to massively subsidize its biodiesel industry. Given this history, Commerce should understand that Argentina is very likely to provide new subsidies to its domestic biodiesel producers in the future. Any outcome from these new changed circumstances reviews should be based only on the record developed during the reviews.”

The letter further recommends that Commerce issue extensive questionnaires to the Government of Argentina and Argentina’s biodiesel industries, establish deadlines for each stage of the newly initiated reviews, and provide an opportunity for public input.



Mexico's Impact on Cattle on Feed Placements
Jared Geiser, Research Assistant & Brenda Boetel, Extension Economist
Dept of Ag Economics, University of Wisconsin-River Falls

Mexico historically has been an important source of feeder cattle for U.S. cattlemen, with feeder calf imports of approximately 1 million head a year since the mid-1980s. Imports grew from 702,000 head in 2008 to their peak in 2012 at 1.44 million head. The largest portion of Mexican cattle imports typically enter the U.S. as feeder calves between 200-700 lbs. Lightweight calves are backgrounded to gain additional weight before entering U.S. feedlots. These Mexican feeder cattle contribute to cattle on feed placements at varying amounts throughout the year.
          
2018 feeder cattle imports from Mexico through the month of October total 898,000 head, a 5 percent increase over the same period in 2017. Feeder cattle imports over the last 5 years, have been highest in the months of November and December and typically drop off in January. Many of these lightweight calves are turned out in fall on wheat pasture for approximately 120 days before being pulled off and entering feedlots in March and April. Feeder cattle imports from Mexico reach a second smaller peak in March and April before dropping off to their yearly lows in the months of August and September.

U.S. cattle on feed placements through October are at 19.5 million head. Placements are down less than 1 percent for the same period in 2017. Cattle on feed placements have been at their lowest points in June and July over the last 5 years and have been at their highest in the month of October. This October followed the yearly pattern with the highest placements of 2018 to date, at 2.2 million head.

We estimate Mexican feeder cattle to account for approximately 5 percent of monthly cattle on feed placements over the last 5 years. Assuming a constant lag of 4 months between when the cattle are imported and when they are placed, Mexican feeder cattle make up the largest percentage of feedlot placements in the month of April, when overall placements are low. This lag time between importing and placement can vary depending on grass conditions and the weight cattle are placed; however even with varying lag times, spring still sees the greater percentage of Mexican placements. In April 2018 the percentage of cattle on feed placements made up by Mexican imports was as high as 11 percent (assuming a 4 month lag), the highest of any month since January 2014. Low cattle on feed placements in April 2018 coupled with high feeder cattle imports in December of 2017, contributed to the largest percentage of cattle on feed placements in the last 5 years. 

With 2018 imports from Mexico on pace to be 5% over last year, and the traditionally large imports in November and December still coming, placements of Mexican feeder cattle will continue to contribute additional placements into 2019.



Secretary Perdue Names NRCS Chief

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today the appointment of Matthew J. “Matt” Lohr to serve as Chief of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). In his role, Lohr will provide leadership for NRCS and its mission to support America’s farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners in their voluntary conservation efforts through a network of over 3,000 offices in communities nationwide.

“Matt has committed his entire life to the betterment of agriculture,” Perdue said. “The knowledge and experience he brings to the table will help ensure our locally-led, science-based approach continues to offer farmers the conservation solutions needed to enhance their environment and commercial viability.”

Lohr, raised on a century farm in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, now owns and operates Valley Pike Farm, Inc., with his wife Beth and their six children. Prior to his appointment by the Trump Administration, Lohr held public office, serving in the Virginia House of Delegates from 2006-2010. In 2008, Lohr was awarded Legislator of the Year in honor of his work as an ambassador for economic and community development in Virginia. He then served as Virginia’s Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services from 2010 to 2013. More recently, Lohr worked as Knowledge Center Director for Farm Credit of the Virginias, a customer-owned financial cooperative that provides resources and education outreach to local farmers and the community. Since June 2017, he has been farming full-time on the family operation, which includes poultry, beef cattle, row crops, and sweet corn.

“I am honored and humbled to serve America’s agricultural industry in this new capacity,” Lohr said. “As a 5th generation farmer, I care deeply about conserving and protecting our most valuable agricultural resources. I look forward to the chance to lead this valuable agency and assist our producers nationwide with their conservation practices.”



NACD Applauds USDA’s NRCS Chief Appointment

Today, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Sonny Perdue appointed Matthew Lohr to serve as Chief of the department’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

As Chief, Lohr will serve America’s producers and landowners in their conservation efforts to help them conserve, maintain and improve natural resources and the environment through a network of over 3,000 offices in communities nationwide.

“NACD welcomes this long anticipated announcement,” NACD President Brent Van Dyke said. “In addition to being raised on a farm, Matt Lohr has proven his commitment to agriculture and conservation through his nearly 30 years in leadership capacities. NRCS is a crucial partner in the federal, state and local government conservation partnership, and I applaud USDA for its diligence in appointing a strong leader.”

Lohr was raised on a farm in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, and as a fifth-generation farmer, he continues his family’s legacy with his wife Beth and their six children through their operation, Valley Pike Farm, Inc. In 2006, Lohr was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates and later served the state as the Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services from 2010 to 2013. Additionally, as a teenager, Lohr was elected vice president to lead the national FFA organization, a student organization of over 400,000 members.

“As a fellow Virginian, I am confident Lohr has the experience, passion and work ethic to lead NRCS and advance voluntary, locally-led conservation efforts in partnership with the nation’s 3,000 conservation districts,” NACD CEO Jeremy Peters said. “His extensive career as both a policymaker and a farmer gives him insight into effective program delivery and customer service working with landowners to implement conservation programs, to protect natural resources and to build sustainable conservation solutions.”

Lohr will take over for Leonard Jordan, who has been serving NRCS as the acting chief since 2017.



CWT Assisted Member Export Sales Top 6 Million Pounds

Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) member cooperatives accepted 33 offers of export assistance from CWT that helped them capture contracts to sell 4.028 million pounds (1,827 metric tons) of Cheddar, Gouda and Monterey Jack cheese, 1.340 million pounds (608 metric tons) of butter, and 705,479 pounds (320 metric tons) of whole milk powder. The product will be delivered during period December 2018 through May 2019.

The year-to-date CWT-assisted member cooperative sales have reached 66.412 million pounds of American-type cheeses, 15.859 million pounds of butter (82% milkfat) and 38.671 million pounds of whole milk powder.  These sales are the equivalent on a milkfat basis to 1.252 billion pounds of milk. Totals are adjusted for contract cancellations.

Assisting CWT members through the Export Assistance program in the long term helps member cooperatives gain and maintain market share, expanding the demand for U.S. dairy products and the U.S. farm milk that produces them. This positively affects all U.S. dairy farmers by strengthening and maintaining the value of dairy products that directly impact their milk price.