Tuesday December 11 Ag News

SOYBEAN GALL MIDGE ROUNDTABLE
Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center, 1071 County Road G, Ithaca, NE
DEC. 20, 8:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Did any of your soybean fields look like this during the past season?  Maybe you even found some small orange larvae at the base of your soybean plants. Come join us for up-to-date information on this newly emerging pest of soybean. We also want to know what you saw and connect you with some potential tools for making management decisions in 2019. Register now to make sure you have a spot at the table.

Get up-to-date information on soybean gall midge observations during the 2018 season and research efforts to guide your management practices on this pest in 2019.  As extension educators and specialists, we want to know what you saw during the 2018 season with soybean gall midge. Did you observe any differences in management practices (planting date, maturity group, insecticides, adjacent crop, tillage, etc.) with soybean gall midge?  Your input is critical to help guide our research efforts on this rapidly developing pest of soybean.

8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.   Registration, Coffee, Juice and Donuts
9:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.  Soybean Gall Midge: Overview, Management, and Impact
10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.    Roundtable Discussion
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.   Summary from Roundtables
11:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.   Survey

For more information, contact:
justin.mcmechan@unl.edu, kglewen1@unl.edu, (402)624-8030, or (800)529-8030

Help them plan for morning refreshments.  Please RSVP by 12/17 to 402-624-8030



Cover Crop Management Day -- January 16

The NRCS and Nebraska Extension present COVER CROP MANAGEMENT DAY on January 16, 2019, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., at Columbus’ Ag Park, 822 15 Street.

Featured speakers will include Dr. Dwayne Beck, SDSU Extension Specialist along with a producer panel led by Dr. Daren Redfearn, UNL Extension Specialist.

Education will be provided on cover crops, residue management, soil health, incorporation of grazing and crop rotation.

Lunch will be provided.

Registration cost: $10

Register online at https://goo.gl/forms/Y7tfrF2DUaFSwfbC3  or at 402-563-4901 by January 14.



Ricketts to Serve Trump Administration on Trade Advisory Committee 

Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following news that President Donald J. Trump had appointed him to serve as a member of the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations.

“President Trump has been working tirelessly to secure new trade deals for the United States,” said Governor Ricketts.  “From his newly-signed deal with Canada and Mexico to bringing American beef back to China, the President has been delivering on his promises.  It is an honor to support President Trump’s work in this advisory role as he continues to push for better trade deals for working Americans and our family farmers and ranchers.”

Governor Ricketts has made international trade a pillar of his grow Nebraska agenda.  Over the last four years, he has led trade missions to Japan twice, China twice, Canada, Mexico, and the European Union.  He has made trade policy a major focus of his work with the Trump Administration, including a visit to the White House to talk about trade policy.  This summer, the Governor’s Council for International Relations unveiled a new multi-year trade plan, which can be found by clicking here.

According to the Office of the United States Trade Representative, the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations helps shape trade policy including: “(1) negotiating objectives and bargaining positions before entering into trade agreements; (2) the impact of the implementation of trade agreements; (3) matters concerning the operation of any trade agreement once entered into; and (4) other matters arising in connection with the development, implementation, and administration of the trade policy of the United States.”



More than $3 million in tax revenue generated from wind energy projects in Nebraska

Wind energy projects in Nebraska generated nearly $2 million in tax revenue for local schools in 2017, according to a fact sheet released today by the Center for Rural Affairs. In total, the projects generated $3,065,623 in tax revenue that was used to fund schools, roads, and other essential services like fire and emergency medical services.

“Many people wonder what their community will get out of wind development,” said Lu Nelsen, policy associate at the Center for Rural Affairs and author of the publication. “New tax revenue from a wind farm is something that benefits an entire community.”

“Fact sheet: Nebraska wind energy tax revenue” highlights tax contributions of more than 20 wind energy projects in the state through nameplate capacity and real property taxes.

The nameplate capacity tax is equal to $3,518 per megawatt of energy and is assessed on wind energy generation facilities based on their total potential for energy generation – an average wind turbine has a capacity of 3 megawatts. Real property taxes refer to collections paid on operations buildings, access roads, and the foundations for wind turbines. These taxes are determined by the tax district where the property is located.

“Wind energy has proven to be an important economic development tool for counties and small towns,” said Nelsen. “As Nebraskans search for property tax relief, wind energy expansion may be a tool for local economies to offset the need for additional property tax revenue. These new revenues allow officials to adequately fund local schools and other services without raising taxes on property owners.”

For more information and to view the fact sheet, visit cfra.org/publications/WindEnergyTaxRevenueNE.



 Fischer Praises Senate Passage of 2018 Farm Bill Conference Report

 U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement today after the Senate passed the 2018 Farm Bill conference report by a vote of 87-13:

“I’m proud that the Senate was able to come together in a bipartisan fashion today and pass a strong Farm Bill for Nebraska and all of rural America. From the beginning, I wanted to see a Farm Bill that protected critical risk management programs like crop insurance, improved our trade promotion programs, and deployed broadband in rural areas so agriculture producers can use precision agriculture technology. This Farm Bill achieves all of those goals and more. In a time of uncertainty for farm country, this bill is going to bring confidence, stability, and predictability to our families who feed our hungry world.”

Following passage by the Senate, the Farm Bill only needs to clear the House of Representatives before it heads to President Trump’s desk. The House is expected to vote on the Farm Bill conference report tomorrow.

The 2018 Farm Bill:
·       Continues to provide agriculture producers with important risk management tools and voluntary access to farm programs, including: crop insurance, Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program.

·       Streamlines the trade promotion programs. This will provide certainty for farmers and ranchers marketing products around the globe. These programs are also critical to providing agriculture producers access to international markets.

·       Includes the Precision Agriculture Connectivity Act, sponsored by Senator Fischer, which would create a task force at the FCC charged with identifying gaps in high-speed internet connectivity across America’s farm and ranch land. Working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the task force would promote the rapid expansion of high-speed broadband, with the goal of achieving service to 95 percent of agricultural lands by 2025.

·       Expands broadband access in rural areas by providing direct loan and grant incentives to encourage public-private partnerships that will expedite investment into rural broadband infrastructure.

·       Establishes a program to address animal disease prevention and management, including the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank and the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program.

·       Includes language sponsored by Senator Fischer that recommends USDA recognize as a best management practice in conservation programs the use of remote telemetry data systems for irrigation scheduling. It also encourages USDA to incorporate remote telemetry data systems as a best management practice under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

·       Reauthorizes and bolsters the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program, increasing the integrity of the program so it can better target the most vulnerable.



Statement from Nebraska Farm Bureau President Steve Nelson Regarding Senate Passage of 2018 Farm Bill

“We welcome today’s action by the U.S. Senate to approve the final version of the 2018 Farm Bill. The Senate’s vote moves us one step closer to advancing this important legislation to the desk of the President.”

“Passage of a farm bill will help provide certainty to Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers as they navigate the challenges of today’s agriculture economy and also provide certainty to Nebraska’s lending industry that is tasked with making decisions regarding operating notes for Nebraska’s agriculture operations.”

“We thank Sen. Deb Fischer and Sen. Ben Sasse for their work on the 2018 Farm Bill and for their votes in favor of this measure. We encourage the U.S. House to follow suit and move quickly to provide final farm bill passage.”



NMPF Thanks Senators for Leadership in Passing Pro-Dairy Farm Bill

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) thanked the Senate for quickly passing a farm bill that includes needed reforms to dairy programs that will boost producer incomes in a tough economic environment. NMPF urged the U.S. House of Representatives to immediately approve the bill.

“The farm bill’s bipartisan support in the Senate is a vote of confidence in U.S. agriculture, and it’s a reason for hope among dairy producers,” said Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF. “As dairy struggles with low prices and disrupted exports, the Senate has stepped up with improved programs that will help producers. We urge the House to pass this legislation and send it to the White House.”

Mulhern congratulated Sens. Pat Roberts (R-KS) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) for their leadership in building consensus for the bill. NMPF also thanked Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT), who served on the conference committee and has long played a role in shaping dairy policy, as well as conferee Sens. Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) for their advocacy.  Additionally, NMPF commends Sens. Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Bob Casey (D-PA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Tina Smith (D-MN) for their work to strengthen the bill for dairy farmers.

The farm bill features several important policy reforms for dairy, including:
    Affordable higher coverage levels in the Dairy Margin Coverage program (DMC) (renamed from the Margin Protection Program) will permit all dairy producers to insure margins above $8.00 on their Tier 1 (first five million pounds) of production history.
    The bill will reduce the cost of $5.00 margin coverage by roughly 88 percent. This aids larger producers and is critically important in states where margins fall more quickly.
    Greater flexibility to allow producers of all sizes to access Tier 1 premium rates.

Expanded access to additional risk management tools, allowing producers to participate in both the DMC and the Livestock Gross Margin insurance program.



EPA and Army Propose New "Waters of the United States" Definition

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of the Army (Army) are proposing a clear, understandable, and implementable definition of “waters of the United States” that clarifies federal authority under the Clean Water Act. Unlike the Obama administration's 2015 definition of “waters of the United States,” today’s proposal contains a straightforward definition that would result in significant cost savings, protect the nation’s navigable waters, help sustain economic growth, and reduce barriers to business development.

“Our proposal would replace the Obama EPA’s 2015 definition with one that respects the limits of the Clean Water Act and provides states and landowners the certainty they need to manage their natural resources and grow local economies,” said EPA Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “For the first time, we are clearly defining the difference between federally protected waterways and state protected waterways. Our simpler and clearer definition would help landowners understand whether a project on their property will require a federal permit or not, without spending thousands of dollars on engineering and legal professionals.”

The agencies’ proposal is the second step in a two-step process to review and revise the definition of “waters of the United States” consistent with President Trump's February 2017 Executive Order entitled “Restoring the Rule of Law, Federalism, and Economic Growth by Reviewing the ‘Waters of the United States’ Rule.” The Executive Order states that it is in the national interest to ensure that the nation's navigable waters are kept free from pollution, while at the same time promoting economic growth, minimizing regulatory uncertainty, and showing due regard for the roles of Congress and the states under the Constitution.

“EPA and the Army together propose this new definition that provides a clear and predictable approach to regulating ‘waters of the United States.’ We focused on developing an implementable definition that balances local and national interests under the Clean Water Act,” said R.D. James, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works. “I have heard from a wide range of stakeholders on Clean Water Act implementation challenges. This proposed definition provides a common-sense approach to managing our nation's waters.”

The agencies’ proposed rule would provide clarity, predictability and consistency so that the regulated community can easily understand where the Clean Water Act applies—and where it does not. Under the agencies’ proposal, traditional navigable waters, tributaries to those waters, certain ditches, certain lakes and ponds, impoundments of jurisdictional waters, and wetlands adjacent to jurisdictional waters would be federally regulated. It also details what are not “waters of the United States,” such as features that only contain water during or in response to rainfall (e.g., ephemeral features); groundwater; many ditches, including most roadside or farm ditches; prior converted cropland; stormwater control features; and waste treatment systems.

The agencies believe this proposed definition appropriately identifies waters that should be subject to regulation under the Clean Water Act while respecting the role of states and tribes in managing their own land and water resources. States and many tribes have existing regulations that apply to waters within their borders, whether or not they are considered “waters of the United States.” The agencies’ proposal gives states and tribes more flexibility in determining how best to manage their land and water resources while protecting the nation’s navigable waters as intended by Congress when it enacted the Clean Water Act. 

Robust, publicly accessible data is also a key component of common-sense, cost-effective environmental protection. In response to requests from some states, EPA and the Army are exploring ways the agencies can work with our federal, state, and tribal partners to develop a data or mapping system that could provide a clearer understanding of the presence or absence of jurisdictional waters.

The agencies invited written pre-proposal recommendations and received more than 6,000 recommendations that the agencies have considered in developing this proposal. The agencies listened to those directly affected by the regulations, and this proposal balances the input the agencies received from a wide range of stakeholders.

The agencies will take comment on the proposal for 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. EPA and the Army will also hold an informational webcast on January 10, 2019, and will host a listening session on the proposed rule in Kansas City, KS, on January 23, 2019.

More information including a pre-publication version of the Federal Register notice, the supporting analyses and fact sheets are available at: https://www.epa.gov/wotus-rule. 



Fischer Responds to EPA’s New Water Rule Replacing WOTUS

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee and the Senate Agriculture Committee, today welcomed the EPA’s announcement of a new water policy proposed rule. The rule replaces the Obama administration’s 2015 “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule, which expanded the federal government’s jurisdiction over Nebraska’s water:

“The 2015 WOTUS rule had far-reaching consequences that would have hurt every single Nebraskan. The proposed rule announced today provides clarity and will ensure the federal government stays in its jurisdictional lane.”



Sasse Statement on New Water Rule

U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, an outspoken advocate for American agriculture, released the following statement after the EPA proposed new rules to replace the unconstitutional 2015 Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. Senator Sasse will submit Nebraskans’ comments to the EPA during the rulemaking comment period.

"This is good news. The Obama-era WOTUS rule was textbook Washington hogwash: unelected federal bureaucrats were trying to unconstitutionally regulate puddles here in Nebraska. I'm grateful for today's new approach -- Nebraska producers need predictability and common sense. Here’s the truth Nebraskans have known all along: nobody cares more about our land and water resources than we do -- our farmers and ranchers don't talk about conservation, they do it."



Ricketts Applauds Next Steps on WOTUS Repeal

Today, Governor Pete Ricketts and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) applauded an announcement by Acting Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler that the Trump Administration has proposed a replacement for the 2015 Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule.

“Thank you President Trump and Acting Administrator Wheeler for your continued commitment to repealing President Obama’s onerous WOTUS rule,” said Governor Ricketts.  “This new proposal returns more power to the states and private land owners where it belongs.  From family farms to commercial developers, this certainty is critical for the job creators who provide opportunities and grow Nebraska.”

"I want to thank President Trump and Acting EPA Administrator Wheeler for their work in reducing the regulatory overreach contained in the previous WOTUS rule,” said NDA Director Steve Wellman.  “The new proposed rule provides landowners with long term certainty, clarity, and straight forward guidance with consistency across all states.  As the original conservationists, our farmers and ranchers want to ensure we have high water quality without overbearing government oversight.  We expect the proposed new WOTUS rule to restore the rule of law and draw a clear line between state and federal jurisdiction."

The State of Nebraska and other states have previously sued to stop the implementation of the 2015 WOTUS rule, which had attempted to shift oversight of intrastate waterways from state and local governance to federal oversight.



Statement by Steve Nelson, on Behalf of Common Sense Nebraska Coalition, Regarding New Clean Water Rule Proposal

“We are pleased by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (CORPS) actions to propose a new Clean Water Rule to replace the 2015, Waters of the U.S., (WOTUS) Rule.”

“Our coalition partners are committed to protecting the land and water resources under our stewardship, however, the 2015 WOTUS Rule was not about clean water, but instead about a massive expansion of federal authority over private lands and infringement upon individual property rights.”

“We thank President Trump for following through on his promise to address this important issue and we appreciate the EPA and CORPS for working with agriculture and numerous other interests to gather input and feedback to work towards a better proposal.”

“Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson is also to be commended for his ongoing efforts to protect Nebraska’s interests throughout this process, paving a way for us to get to this point.”

“Our coalition partners want a rule that provides a framework for clean water protection, but also clearly identifies waters subject to federal jurisdiction. We believe the EPA and CORPS have moved in the right direction with this new proposal on those fronts. We look forward to further evaluation and providing feedback to the agencies during the public comment period.”



Naig on Proposed revised definition of “Waters of the U.S.”

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig issued the following statement on the proposed revised definition of Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) that was released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today.

“I am encouraged by the proposed WOTUS rule released by EPA today. I appreciate their effort to listen to farmers and other stakeholders and address their legitimate concerns about the previous rule. It is critically important that farmers, businesses and communities have greater certainty and predictability around what is and what is not covered by the rule. Now is an opportunity for all stakeholders to take the time to closely review the new rule and provide input during the 60 day comment period.”



Secretary Perdue Statement on EPA & Army Corps WOTUS Announcement

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today praised the announcement from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Army Corps of Engineers that they are fulfilling President Trump’s pledge to repeal and replace the Waters of the United States rule.

Perdue issued the following statement:

“When I meet with the men and women of American agriculture, one of their chief concerns is always the overreach of federal regulations.  The WOTUS rule is regularly singled out as particularly egregious, as it impedes the use of their own land and stifles productivity.  Farmers and ranchers are exceptional stewards of the environment, and states have their own standards as well.  This welcome action from the EPA and Army Corps will help bring clarity to Clean Water Act regulations and help farmers know where federal jurisdiction begins and ends.  President Trump is making good on his promise to reduce burdensome regulations to free our producers to do what they do best – feed, fuel, and clothe this nation and the world.” 



NCBA: New Water Rule a "Fresh Start" for Cattle Producers

NCBA President Kevin Kester today released the following statement in response to the Trump Administration’s announcement of a new proposed water rule:

“After years of uncertainty stemming from the 2015 WOTUS rule, the Trump Administration’s new water rule represents a fresh start for America’s cattle producers. NCBA advocated for a new water rule that is easy to understand and implement. The Administration listened. The proposed water rule provides safeguards to keep our waters clean and clear rules for landowners to follow. We look forward to engaging with the Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers to finalize the rule.”



NCGA Statement on WOTUS Rule

National Corn Growers Association President Lynn Chrisp made the following statement on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) release of the new Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. The new rule replaces the 2015 WOTUS rule that would have increased regulatory burdens and costs for farmers.

“Farmers rely on clean water and are committed to protecting our environment and the communities where we live and work. With a clear understanding of what is and is not jurisdictional under the Clean Water Act, farmers can implement stewardship practices such as grass waterways and buffer strips without the burden of bureaucratic red tape or the fear of legal action.

“NCGA looks forward to fully reviewing the new WOTUS rule to ensure that it provides clear jurisdictional boundaries to farmers, protects our nation’s water and can be implemented without confusion.”



Soybean Growers Appreciative of WOTUS Announcement

The American Soybean Association (ASA) is pleased that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Army Corps of Engineers have developed a proposed Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule that takes into account comments by ASA and other impacted stakeholders that aim to protect our waterways while offering a workable solution for farmers. Soybean producers appreciate the significance of clean water and strive to be responsible stewards of our water, land and environment. But it is important that any policies be in line with the intent of the law and the rulings of the Supreme Court—to protect our resources through responsible and practical rules and regulations.

ASA president and soybean farmer from Clinton, Ky, Davie Stephens said, “We appreciate the work done by the EPA and the Army Corps to provide regulatory certainty to farmers and landowners by clearly outlining the regulated bodies of waters, defining the terms, and remaining within the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act (CWA).”

Stephens continued that, “While ASA will review the rule in greater detail before submitting formal comments, we are pleased that it is based on the standard set out by the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia in Rapanos v. United States that the CWA should apply only to ‘navigable waters’ connected by a surface flow at least part of the year, with other waters to be regulated by the states.”

ASA looks forward to commenting on the proposed rule and working toward a policy that protects U.S. waters without going beyond the jurisdiction of the law or placing an undue burden on soybean farmers and private landowners.



 NPPC Hails EPA’s Proposed New WOTUS Rule

The National Pork Producers Council applauded today’s announcement by the Trump administration of a proposed new Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule.

The regulation would replace the WOTUS rule issued in August 2015 by the Obama administration’s U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. That measure gave EPA broad 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. It also covered lands adjacent to such waters.

Prior to the 2015 rule, EPA’s jurisdiction over waterways – based on several U.S. Supreme Court decisions – included “navigable” waters and waters with a significant hydrologic connection to navigable waters.

“The 2015 rule was overbroad and poorly written,” said NPPC President Jim Heimerl, a pork producer from Johnstown, Ohio. “Everyone, particularly farmers, wants clean water, but the old regulation wasn’t about clean water. It was a massive land grab that promoted federal control over private property, grew the size of government and allowed activists to extort and micromanage all kinds of farming and business activities.

“We’re pleased the Trump EPA is replacing it and that the agency took input from farmers in coming up with a new rule that will be practical and workable and, unlike the previous rule, that will protect the nation’s waterways,” Heimerl said.



NAWG Welcomes New WOTUS Proposed Rule

Today’s the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Army Corps of Engineers released a new proposed Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule which redefines the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act more narrowly and provides clarity to what is required of landowners. NAWG President Jimmie Musick issued the following statement:

“NAWG is encouraged by today’s action by the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers to increase clarity and transparency around the Waters of the U.S. regulation.

“Wheat growers know the importance of protecting our resources in order to sustain our farming operations and feed a growing world population. However, we need regulatory certainty, so we can remain in compliance with the law.

“We believe the new proposed rule does just this and reduces ambiguity in the law. We welcome the new proposed rule and plan on submitting comments.”



Farm Bureau Applauds New Clean Water Rule Proposal Signed by EPA

State Farm Bureau presidents from across the nation attended an event today at the Environmental Protection Agency headquarters in Washington to witness the signing of the proposed Clean Water Rule. The following statement regarding the new Clean Water Rule can be attributed to American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall.

“Farmers and ranchers work every day to protect our nation’s waterways and drinking water. For more than five years we have advocated for a new water rule that protects clean water and provides clear rules for people and communities to follow. This new rule will empower farmers and ranchers to comply with the law, protect our water resources and productively work their land without having to hire an army of lawyers and consultants.

“We want to protect land and water in the communities where we live and work. Clean water is our way of life. Preserving our land and protecting our water means healthy places to live, work and play. We believe this new Clean Water Rule is rooted in common-sense. It will protect our nation’s water resources and allow farmers to farm.

“We appreciate the months of hard work that the administration, especially the EPA and Army Corps of Engineers, invested in making sure the new Clean Water Rule was done right. Unlike the 2015 WOTUS rule, this new rule protects our resources, respects the law and provides greater clarity so the agencies and the public can identify regulated federal waterways. We will further analyze this new rule in the coming days and will suggest further refinements during the comment period.”



Milk Producers Pleased Waters of the U.S. Rule Replacement is Underway

The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) is pleased that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have begun the process of replacing the 2015 Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule.

NMPF staff were given an overview of the newly proposed WOTUS rule that will replace the 2015 version in a ceremony at EPA headquarters today. As NMPF reviews the proposal, staff are highly confident it will improve upon the current rule, which has led to unnecessary legal fees, compliance costs and confusion for U.S. dairy producers.

“Dairy farmers have a vested interest in the outcome of this rulemaking and its potential impact on their operations,” said Jim Mulhern, president and CEO of NMPF. “We look forward to working with the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to achieve the proper clarity that dairy farmers need on WOTUS to continue to meet our shared commitment to clean water.”

NMPF, other trade associations and state governments have had grave concerns about the current rule, which is overly broad and potentially unconstitutional. NMPF has repeatedly called on the EPA to rewrite the 2015 regulation and narrow its scope. The rule has faced an enormous amount of litigation around the country and was on track to be reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court.

The new rule will be subject to a public comment period that will last 60 days from its publication in the Federal Register, which is expected by January.



Farmer Co-ops Applaud Release of New Waters of the United States Rule

The National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC) today commended the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (the Corps) for releasing a revised rule defining what constitutes a “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) for purposes of the Clean Water Act. The action comes over a year and a half after the Trump Administration withdrew the Obama-era WOTUS rule, which contained an overly broad definition of a WOTUS and would have imposed onerous federal regulations on farms and ranches across the country.

“The new rule released today rids the WOTUS definition of the broad federal overreach embodied in the rule written by the previous administration,” said Chuck Conner, president and CEO of NCFC. “With this action, the Trump administration is continuing its commitment to defending farmers, ranchers and growers from burdensome and costly regulations that result in little impact on the environment.”



NCGA Testifies in Support of RFS

Texas farmer and National Corn Growers Association past president and chairman, Wesley Spurlock, today testified on behalf of NCGA at a House Energy and Commerce Environment Subcommittee hearing to review a discussion draft of the 21stCentury Transportation Fuels Act.

Spurlock told the Subcommittee of the significant opportunities the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) has created for farmers.

“The RFS is one of the most ambitious and successful energy, environmental and economic policies Congress has enacted, not only for farmers and rural communities, but also for drivers, our air quality and our nation’s energy security. As use of homegrown renewable fuels has grown and as farmers have become more productive using fewer resources, the benefits of the RFS have exceeded those Congress projected,” Spurlock said.

Spurlock’s testimony cited farmers’ increased productivity, increasing their average yield by more than 25 bushels per acre, or 17 percent, since 2007, as well as the benefits of value-added co-products like distillers grains for feed and corn oil for biodiesel.

“The value added by ethanol and increased farmer productivity has had a tremendous positive impact on rural America, helping the next generation return to their family farm,” Spurlock said.

Spurlock’s testimony touched on the myriad benefits of ethanol – consumers pay lower prices at the gas pump, greenhouse gas emissions have been reduced, and the most harmful compounds in gasoline have been replaced.

Spurlock said that while NCGA agrees with several provisions within the discussion draft, the organization believes it would ultimately undo successful renewable fuel policy and that it is not possible to continue to reduce emissions with an octane standard that could be met by using more oil.

“The net impact of this proposal would not maintain the market access renewable fuels currently have with the RFS or offer opportunity to expand the use of ethanol as an octane source,” Spurlock said. “NCGA believes we should build on the success of the RFS when moving a future fuel policy forward.”

Spurlock thanked the Subcommittee for its advocacy for farmers and renewable fuels and stressed NCGA’s interest in providing input for any future consideration of renewable fuel policy.



Mid-Level Ethanol Blends Are the Transportation Fuel of the 21st Century

As Congress looks to revamp and coordinate federal-level policies that govern the transportation fuels and vehicles sectors, National Farmers Union (NFU) is urging legislators to expand use of high-octane, mid-level blends of ethanol in the transportation fuel supply. In doing so, policymakers have the opportunity to create lasting national policy that builds on the significant economic, environmental, and national security benefits associated with increased biofuel production and use.

NFU President Roger Johnson today submitted a statement to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce’s Subcommittee on the Environment in advance of the subcommittee’s hearing on “Discussion Draft: The 21 Century Transportation Fuels Act.”

“NFU agrees that fuel and vehicle regulation can and should work hand-in-hand to promote clean-burning, alternative renewable fuels,” said Johnson. “High octane fuels through higher blends of ethanol should be the fuel for today and the future.”

The subcommittee met to focus on synergies and opportunities for the nation’s preeminent fuels and vehicles policies – the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) and Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) standards. In doing so, the subcommittee acknowledged that “high-octane fuels and vehicles may be an economical and technologically feasible path forward for producers and sellers of fuels and vehicles as well as the consumers who use them.”

In his statement to the committee, Johnson touted the benefits of mid-level ethanol blends, like E30. “The synergies between high octane fuels and more efficient, high compression engines must be recognized and supported. Ethanol has a very high octane number and has many other benefits that increase engine efficiency and reduce tailpipe air emissions, supporting these advanced engines. It provides these benefits at a lower cost than any other octane booster in gasoline.”

Johnson also added that “consumers would benefit from fuel cost savings, reduced price volatility, increased performance, and the energy security and environmental attributes of mid-level ethanol blends.”

He noted that NFU was pleased by recent moves by the administration to support year-round use of E15 and to accept comments on the benefits of high-octane fuels for CAFE and GHG standards. Yet, EPA has not proposed any specific regulatory actions that would remove obstacles to higher blends entering the market and that would move the country toward high-octane fuels. To that effect, Johnson recommended:
·     Easing the ability to use mid-level ethanol blends as certification fuel under EPA regulations;
·     Adjusting CAFE and GHG regulations to better account for ethanol content in fuels, including providing credits to support vehicles that promote increased use of renewable fuels;
·     Modifying EPA emissions modeling to better account for the benefits of ethanol;
·     Reconsidering EPA’s Reid Vapor Pressure requirements for mid-level ethanol blends; and
·     Growing and enforcing the RFS.

“Virtually all parties, including EPA, acknowledge the GHG and fuel economy benefits of high-octane fuels in more efficient engines, and the cost-effectiveness of using higher ethanol blends to meet these goals,” said Johnson. “It’s time they act to increase the amount of mid-level blends of ethanol we use in the U.S.”



RFA CEO Cooper Testifies on the Future Role of High Octane Fuels

While draft legislation recently released by Reps. John Shimkus (R-Ill.) and Bill Flores (R-Texas) represents “an important first step in the debate about future fuels policy and the role of high octane fuels,” the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) cannot support the proposal because it “does not provide the long-term certainty and growth path” that America’s ethanol producers need.

That was the message delivered by RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper in testimony during today’s House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on the Environment hearing on the Shimkus/Flores proposal, named “The 21st Century Transportation Fuels Act.” While the proposal would establish a higher octane fuel requirement (95 RON) in 2023, the draft also would sunset the Renewable Fuel Standard’s (RFS) conventional biofuel requirements after 2022.

By eliminating the RFS for conventional biofuels, “…the draft bill would destabilize the considerable progress our nation has made toward greater energy security, economic vitality, and environmental health,” Cooper testified. “We simply cannot support eliminating the RFS program, as the draft envisions, without a much stronger signal to the market that ethanol’s role in our fuel supply will continue to grow.”

While any move toward higher octane would seem on the surface to benefit ethanol—the lowest-cost and cleanest source of octane on the market—recent analysis shows that refiners could meet the demand for 95 RON gasoline without using more ethanol. “Even though ethanol is far superior to other octane boosters in terms of cost, greenhouse gas emissions, air quality, health effects, and other factors, a 95 RON standard—when paired with elimination of the RFS conventional renewable fuel requirements—would not result in increased market opportunities for ethanol,” Cooper said. “RFA strongly believes a high octane fuel standard can work in concert with—not in conflict with—the RFS.”

“While a good conversation starter, this discussion draft does not provide the long-term certainty and growth path that America’s renewable fuel producers, farmers, automakers, and consumers need,” Cooper testified. “With proper oversight and implementation, the RFS can work in tandem with a high-octane standard to continue to drive innovation, support rural economies, and provide cleaner and cheaper fuel choices at the pump well beyond 2022,” he added.



ACE: 95 RON trade for RFS repeal not an ethanol growth strategy

American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) CEO Brian Jennings issued a statement today responding to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment hearing on the discussion draft “21st Century Transportation Fuels Act,” which proposes an exchange of a national (95 RON) octane fuel requirement for repeal of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Below is Jennings’ statement:

“The draft legislation recently made public by Representatives John Shimkus of Illinois and Bill Flores of Texas draws attention to why higher octane fuel is needed but fails to chart a sufficient course for how to get there. Requiring automakers to warranty their vehicles to operate on a minimum 95 RON fuel (about the same as today’s premium) in exchange for effective repeal of the RFS will not improve fuel quality by increasing ethanol use, rather, it is a mechanism to undo the competition-forcing core of the RFS and limit ethanol use to current volumes.

“In fact, while the legislative draft implies support for E20 blends, a recent study commissioned by the Energy Information Agency (EIA) concluded refiners could easily meet a 95 RON standard using just 10 percent ethanol.

“If the goal of the legislation is to increase the octane of motor gasoline, refiners cannot be allowed to insist on man-made limits just because they prefer not to use ethanol, which happens to be the lowest-cost and lowest-carbon source of octane on the planet. There may be ideas in the legislative draft which, in isolation, might seem appealing, but the net effect of the entire legislative package would be very harmful to the ethanol industry and farmers who need pro-growth policies.”



Skor Testifies Before Congressional Committee on Critical Role of RFS, Ethanol in America's Fuel Policy

Today, Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor appeared before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Environment’s hearing on the discussion draft put forth by Representatives John Shimkus (R-IL) and Bill Flores (R-TX) to repeal the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Skor testified on the success of the RFS in creating ethanol demand and achieving its' goal of providing drivers with a cleaner-burning and more affordable fuel at the pump:

“Today, ethanol is 25 cents less per gallon than gasoline, and was as much as 90 cents lower earlier this year,” said Skor. “The past decade has shown oil companies will actively ignore economic incentives to prevent market entry of higher ethanol blends."

"Only by coupling a stable RFS with a significant boost in octane from a mid-level ethanol blend, can consumers realize significant cost savings, increased engine efficiency, and substantial environmental benefits. Unfortunately, this draft as proposed will lead to reduced blending of cleaner biofuel and it will raise costs significantly for American drivers.”

Additionally, Skor noted that while Growth Energy supports many aspects of the draft, it "misses an opportunity to lay out a bold vision for the future of affordable liquid fuels and to make a significant impact - restoring growth in America's rural communities and carbonizing our nation's fuel supply."



 CWT-Assisted Member Sales Top 23 Million Pounds of Product in November

Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) assisted seven member cooperatives last month in securing 76 sales contracts to export 23 million pounds of American-type cheese, butter and whole milk powder. Sixty contracts will deliver 14.7 million pounds of American-type cheeses to nine countries, nine butter contracts account for 5.3 million pounds of butter headed to four countries, and seven contracts will move 3.3 million pounds of whole milk powder to five countries. The products will go to customers in Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, Central America, Oceania and South America, and will be shipped from November 2018 through May 2019.

Member cooperatives’ sales activities through November bring the year-to-date CWT-assisted export sales to 66.4 million pounds of America-type cheeses, 15.9 million pounds of butter and 38.7 million pounds of whole milk powder. The milk equivalent of these sales is 1.252 billion pounds on a milkfat basis.

Helping CWT member cooperatives gain and maintain world market share through the Export Assistance program positively impacts all U.S. dairy farmers by strengthening and maintaining the value of dairy products that raise milk prices. It does this by expanding the demand for U.S. dairy exports, thereby increasing the total demand for U.S. farm milk.



National FFA Organization Announces National FFA Convention & Expo staying in Indianapolis through 2031

The National FFA Organization announced today that its National FFA Convention & Expo will be staying in Indianapolis through 2031.

"We are proud to keep the National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis," Mark Poeschl, the National FFA chief executive officer, said. "The city has extended its very best brand of Hoosier hospitality to our members for many years, and we are very pleased that our convention will remain here through 2031."

The annual national convention and expo, which has been held in Indianapolis since 2016, hosts more than 67,000 attendees from across the country. The event was estimated to have an economic impact of $39.8 million for Indianapolis during 2018.

The national convention and expo utilizes downtown venues, including Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Lucas Oil Stadium, the Indiana Convention Center, the Indiana State Fairgrounds and event hotels.

“The National FFA Convention & Expo, much like the National FFA headquarters, is right at home here in Indiana,” said Gov. Eric Holcomb. “Indiana is ready and committed to support this event and welcome with open arms the 67,000 FFA members and guests who will come to our capital city each of the next nine years. Today’s news confirms that Indiana’s reputation is strong and growing stronger, and I appreciate FFA’s commitment to build on our already-robust agricultural heritage in the coming years.”

“We are so excited that the National FFA has chosen to keep its convention in Indianapolis through 2031,” said Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch, who also serves as Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “With Indiana’s strong agricultural tradition, it is always inspiring to meet students who are passionate about getting involved in agriculture or pursuing careers in agriculture-related fields. We look forward to welcoming the thousands of attendees who will attend the organization’s annual week-long event and engaging with students and businesses who are helping shape the future of agriculture.”

During the national convention, in addition to attending workshops, participating in competitive events and attending general sessions, members also participate in National Days of Service, where they give back to the community.

“Indianapolis is excited to welcome back the National FFA Convention & Expo through 2031,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “Not only does this commitment create an estimated $39.8 million in annual economic impact for Central Indiana, but attendees from across the state and around the globe uplift our residents through community projects each year. There is so much success on the horizon for Indianapolis and I’m thrilled the FFA Convention will continue to be a part of that story.”

The National FFA Convention took place in Kansas City, Mo., from 1928-98. Louisville then hosted the event from 1999 to 2005, with Indianapolis being the host city from 2006-12. In 2009, the organization announced the national convention and expo would rotate every three years between Indianapolis and Louisville, with Louisville hosting the event 2013-15 and Indianapolis hosting the event 2016-18. In 2015, the decision was made to move the convention back to Indianapolis from 2016-24.

As the membership of the organization has grown so has the attendance of the national convention and expo. Following the 90th National FFA Convention & Expo, the National FFA Board of Directors opened a bid process for cities wanting to host the national convention and expo beginning in 2025. The final decision was between Atlanta and Indianapolis.

"Our members and guests feel at home in Indiana," Poeschl said, "and they share our enthusiasm for the city that FFA calls home."

“Visit Indy, the City of Indianapolis, and the State of Indiana have an outstanding partnership with the National FFA Organization,” said Leonard Hoops, president and CEO of Visit Indy. “We’re honored to host this event and look forward to delivering a great experience for FFA student members, advisors, and families for the next 13 years and many years to come.”



 R-CALF USA Tells Regulators Time’s Running Out to Protect Cattle Markets from Antitrust Takeover

At the competition roundtable held Friday at the University of Wisconsin School of Law, R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard told experts in antitrust and regulation that time is running out to stop multinational beef packers from capturing the U.S. live cattle supply chain away from independent cattle producers.

Sponsored by the American Antitrust Institute and the University of Wisconsin Law School, the competition roundtable, Food and Agriculture at a Crossroads:  Setting Competition Priorities to Protect Producers, Consumers, and the Supply Chain, focused on major competition issues involving concentrated food and agricultural markets.

Panelists and speakers for the event included marketplace regulators from the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Trade Commission, and state attorneys general offices. Private attorneys, academia, industry advocates and a representative of the U.S. Department of Agriculture also participated.

Bullard was a presenter on the panel discussing packer market power and he explained that lack of enforcement of U.S. antitrust laws and laws prohibiting anti-competitive conduct is fast destroying the cattle industry’s competitive marketing channels.

He said the U.S. recently lost 25 percent of its local livestock auction yards and 75 percent of its independent feedlots. In addition, he said, nearly 80 percent of all beef packing plants in business in 1980 have disappeared.

“When we lose our industry’s competitive marketing channels, it’s game over,” Bullard said adding, “The cattle industry is the meatpackers’ last frontier and they’re now doing to our industry what they’ve already perfected in the poultry and hog industries.”

Bullard said the way to protect the cattle industry’s marketing channels, which will preserve the independence of U.S. cattle producers, is to immediately and vigorously enforce our U.S. antitrust laws and the Packers and Stockyards Act.

“The fact that this roundtable was so well attended suggests there is a heightened awareness among regulators and policy shapers for the need to begin protecting competition in the cattle industry.  Let’s hope they’re not too late,” Bullard concluded.