Wednesday Februay 27 Ag News

EXPERIMENTS UNDERSCORE OVERLOOKED ASPECT OF DEFENDING CORN FROM PEST

A chemical compound typically cast as a supporting actor in corn’s defense against a tiny pest might instead take a leading role, says a research-based rewrite from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

The Nebraska study showed that spraying a corn plant with one of its own compounds — 12-oxo-phytodienoic acid, or OPDA — can help deter the virus-carrying, pollination-disrupting insect known as the corn-leaf aphid.

OPDA has long been recognized as vital for synthesizing jasmonic acid, a defensive hormone deployed in response to aphids puncturing stalks and sucking corn sap through their syringe-like mouthpieces. That puncturing also kick-starts production of benzoxazinoids: compounds believed important in forming callose, a carbohydrate-laden layer that heals wounds and blocks access to its sugar-transporting phloem tissue.

But experiments from Nebraska’s Joe Louis and colleagues suggest that OPDA alone, minus the aid of the plant’s two more famous safeguards, can protect against the pinhead-sized insect by triggering a buildup of callose. That knowledge could eventually help corn raise its carbohydrate shield before rather than after aphids attack, Louis said.

Based on recent feedback from the fields, stronger defenses could prove important going forward.

“In the last few years, our entomology extension folks are getting calls from farmers saying that they are continuously seeing these corn-leaf aphids in the fields during the corn-growing season,” said Louis, Harold and Esther Edgerton Assistant Professor of Entomology. “In the Midwest, we’re seeing those increasing reports during the field season.”

WHEN APHIDS ATTACK
Louis’ team performed its experiments with a line of corn named Mp708, which exhibits callose buildup and a rise in the defense-related protein Mir1-CP. Because Mp708 also features higher levels of OPDA and jasmonic acid, researchers thought that both — the former as a precursor to the latter — were essential to raising those defenses.

Yet the new study indicates that jasmonic acid and benzoxazinoids might not be so essential after all. In one experiment, the team sprayed OPDA on two types of corn plants — one with normal levels of jasmonic acid, the other without — finding that the latter deterred aphids just as well as their jasmonic-rich counterparts. And after exposing OPDA-treated vs. untreated plants to aphids for 24 hours, the researchers discovered that the treated plants had been colonized by roughly 30 percent fewer aphids, which spent less time trying to feed after piercing corn leaves.

The team also measured a corresponding rise in the Mir1-CP proteins, even without increases in jasmonic acid or benzoxazinoids.

“So we’re thinking that if we can activate some of those potent defensive proteins and their downstream defenses, we can provide resistance against the insects,” Louis said. “That’s what we’re looking for.”

Louis now wants to know how the Mir1-CP protein actually affects aphids. His team is also looking for other lines of high-OPDA corn to determine whether they show increases in callose and defense-related proteins when attacked.

More broadly, he said, the team’s recent and future findings might inform the protection of cereal crops beyond corn.

“These crops are equally attacked by many of these phloem-feeding aphids,” Louis said. “So, it could be of interest to other researchers working in the area of monocot crops.”

The researchers reported their findings in the journal Plant Physiology. Louis authored the study with Nebraska’s Suresh Varsani and Sajjan Grover, graduate students in entomology; Kyle Koch, doctoral alumnus in entomology; Tiffany Heng-Moss, professor of entomology and dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources; Gautam Sarath, adjunct professor of entomology; Cornell University’s Georg Jander and Shaoqun Zhou; Texas A&M University’s Pei-Cheng Huang and Michael Kolomiets; W. Paul Williams of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service; and Pennsylvania State University’s Dawn Luthe.

The team received support from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture and from the National Science Foundation.



Ricketts Highlights Nebraska’s First ICATT Apprenticeship Program

Today, Governor Pete Ricketts joined the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest (GACC Midwest), CLAAS Omaha, and Graepel North America at CLAAS of America’s North America headquarters for a signing ceremony highlighting Nebraska’s first Industry Consortium for Advanced Technical Training (ICATT) Apprenticeship Program.  At the signing ceremony, which was part of the Growing Nebraska’s Skilled Workforce event at CLAAS, the Governor was joined by CLAAS Omaha CFO Matthias Ristow and Graepel North America President Mark Zumdohme.

“The Growing Nebraska’s Skilled Workforce event brought together leading innovators to help more Nebraskans find a pathway to many of the great opportunities that are available in our state,” Governor Ricketts said.  “Companies like CLAAS of America and Graepel North America have high-quality jobs and tremendous career paths for our state’s workforce.  The German Dual Study Apprenticeship Program is an innovative way to address the skilled workforce shortage by helping both people who are looking for great jobs, and employers working to recruit and develop talent.”

ICATT is the leading apprenticeship program in the Midwest for high-tech manufacturers and companies with complex technologies or logistics and was established by GACC Midwest.  It is open to any manufacturer who wants to build a sustainable pipeline of talent. 

At the signing ceremony, CLAAS and Graepel, two German companies with North American operations based in Omaha, became the first two high-tech manufacturers in Nebraska to sign on to the apprenticeship program and commit funds for the program.  At the event, CLAAS and Graepel also signed on to become a part of the Registered Apprenticeship Program with the United States Department of Labor (USDOL).  Both the ICATT and USDOL programs, funded by CLAAS and Graepel, will cooperate with Metropolitan Community College where graduates will receive an associate’s degree at the end of the program.

“Apprenticeship programs are a terrific option for Nebraskans seeking a clear path to rewarding vocational careers,” said Nebraska Department of Economic Development Director Dave Rippe.  “Investing in our workforce and creating new opportunities is one of the pillars of growing Nebraska, and we look forward to working with our partners and with employers across the state to raise awareness about the programs that are available.”   

“Today’s event showcases how much Registered Apprenticeships have gained momentum in Nebraska to provide exceptional opportunities for our workforce in advanced manufacturing industries,” said Nebraska Commissioner of Labor John H. Albin.  “We will continue to partner with an increasingly diverse group of employers to help build new programs throughout the state.”

Following the signing ceremony was a panel discussion featuring government and manufacturing industry leaders that focused on how to address the skilled workforce shortage in Nebraska and across the country.



YEUTTER INSTITUTE ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Clayton Yeutter Institute of International Trade and Finance has announced 13 inaugural members of its advisory council. The council members’ collective expertise spans the areas of trade policy and law, commodities markets, global business operations, trade and development, and advanced trade and finance education.

“The breadth of these advisory council members’ achievements in trade and finance complements the Yeutter Institute’s interdisciplinary mission,” said Jill O’Donnell, the institute’s director. “This is an outstanding group of individuals, and their enthusiasm for serving on the Yeutter Institute Advisory Council is a testament to Clayton’s legacy and to the importance they place on trade and finance education. The institute will benefit enormously from the contributions of every member.”

The advisory council members will provide strategic counsel to the director on the institute’s formation and programming. The inaugural members are:

> Edward Alden, Ross Distinguished Visiting Professor, University of Western Washington; senior fellow, Council on Foreign Relations
> Tim Andriesen, managing director, agricultural products, CME Group
> Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director, Nebraska Corn Board and Nebraska Corn Growers Association
> Andrea Durkin, founder, Sparkplug, LLC; editor-in-chief, TradeVistas; adjunct associate professor, Georgetown University School of Foreign Service
> Dan Fulton, retired CEO, Weyerhaeuser Company
> Veronica A. Haggart, retired international trade lawyer; former commissioner, U.S. International Trade Commission
> Mark Jensen, president and CEO, Farm Credit Services of America and Frontier Farm Credit
> Katrin Kuhlmann, president and founder, New Markets Lab; adjunct professor, Georgetown University Law Center; lecturer on law, Harvard Law School
> Kenneth I. Levinson, executive director, Washington International Trade Association
> Warren H. Maruyama, partner, Hogan Lovells
> Joe Stone, executive vice president and chief risk officer, Cargill
> Ambassador Darci Vetter, vice chair, agriculture, food and trade, Edelman
> Cristena Bach Yeutter

The vision of University of Nebraska–Lincoln alumnus and renowned trade expert Clayton Yeutter, the Yeutter Institute connects academic disciplines related to law, business and agriculture to prepare students for leadership roles in international trade and finance, support interdisciplinary research and increase public understanding of these issues. To learn more, visit https://yeutter-institute.unl.edu.

 

Wilbur-Ellis Company LLC Acquires Wiles Brothers Fertilizer, Inc.

Wilbur-Ellis Company LLC, a recognized leader in precision agriculture technology and the distribution and marketing of plant protection, seed and nutritional products, announced last week it acquired the assets of Wiles Brothers Fertilizer, Inc., one of the top independent agriculture retailers in the state of Nebraska.

Family-owned and operated since 1976, Wiles Brothers Fertilizer has been a highly successful, independent ag retailer, providing its customers with fertilizer, crop protection, seed products and application services. 

"After nearly 50 years in business, we are excited about the opportunity to become a part of Wilbur-Ellis Company," said Wiles Brothers Fertilizer founder Marvin Wiles. "As we've gotten to know Wilbur-Ellis, we have found that their commitment to integrity and excellence is consistent with our own values. The customers we have served for years will see real benefits from a continued association with Wilbur-Ellis for both the near- and long-term future."

This purchase expands the Wilbur-Ellis footprint firmly into the highly productive crop areas of Eastern Nebraska and Western Iowa. The Wiles Brothers business and location will serve as a major platform from which to test and launch a collection of agronomic advisory services and cutting-edge technologies.

"We are proud to announce the addition of Wiles Brothers Fertilizer to Wilbur-Ellis," said Wilbur-Ellis Company Central Midwest Area Manager Eric Lacey. "This is a strategic addition in a geography where we don't have a presence. The team at Wiles has a great reputation in the ag retail industry and are known as progressive growers with a long track record of winning state and national yield contests. We look to continue and build upon their strong presence and talent as we launch unique value propositions in the market."

As of February 13, 2019, Wiles Brothers Fertilizer employees and assets became part of Wilbur-Ellis Company. This full-service agribusiness retailer is located at 606 Wiles Road, Plattsmouth, Neb., 68048. Nick Waters will assume responsibilities as branch manager.



NEBRASKA CHICKEN AND EGGS

All layers in Nebraska during January 2019 totaled 8.45 million, up from 7.56 million the previous year, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Nebraska egg production during January totaled 223 million eggs, up from 199 million in 2018. January egg production per 100 layers was 2,633 eggs, compared to 2,633 eggs in 2018.

IOWA EGG PRODUCTION UP 1 PERCENT
Iowa egg production during January 2019 was 1.44 billion eggs, up 1 percent from last month and up 11 percent from last year, according to the latest Chickens and Eggs report from the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service.

The average number of all layers on hand during January 2019 was 57.0 million, down 1 percent from last month but up 3 percent from last year. Eggs per 100 layers for January were 2,520, up 1 percent from last month and up 8 percent from last year.

US January Egg Production Up 5 Percent
United States egg production totaled 9.41 billion during January 2019, up 5 percent from last year. Production included 8.23 billion table eggs, and 1.18 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.09 billion were broiler-type and 89.6 million were egg-type. The total number of layers during January 2019 averaged 393 million, up 3 percent from last year. January egg production per 100 layers was 2,395 eggs, up 2 percent from January 2018.
                                   
All layers in the United States on February 1, 2019 totaled 392 million, up 3 percent from last year. The 392 million layers consisted of 330 million layers producing table or market type eggs, 59.2 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.53 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on February 1, 2019, averaged 77.2 eggs per 100 layers, up 2 percent from February 1, 2018.



Red Meat Production Down 1 Percent From Last December

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.37 billion pounds in December, down 1 percent from the 4.40 billion pounds produced in December 2017.

By State      (million lbs.  -  % Dec '17)
Nebraska .........:     648.1             96      
Iowa ................:     661.4            103      
Kansas .............:     464.6             96      

Beef production, at 2.12 billion pounds, was 2 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.58 million head, down slightly from December 2017. The average live weight was down 12 pounds from the previous year, at 1,368 pounds.

Veal production totaled 6.5 million pounds, 2 percent below December a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 53,600 head, up 16 percent from December 2017. The average live weight was down 35 pounds from last year, at 210 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.23 billion pounds, down slightly from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.5 million head, down slightly from December 2017. The average live weight was unchanged from the previous year, at 286 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 13.2 million pounds, was up 3 percent from December 2017. Sheep slaughter totaled 201,800 head, 7 percent above last year. The average live weight was 131 pounds, down 5 pounds from December a year ago.

January to December 2018 commercial red meat production was 53.4 billion pounds, up 3 percent from 2017. Accumulated beef production was up 3 percent from last year, veal was up 2 percent, pork was up 3 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was up 5 percent.



Grassley Recognized by Ag Retailers Association

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) recognized Senators Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, and Roger Wicker, R-Miss., with its 2018 Legislator of the Year award.

"We are pleased to honor two very deserving Senators this year with our Legislator of the Year award," said ARA President and CEO Daren Coppock. "We are grateful for their dedication and continued support of the agriculture industry."

In the presentation of the award, Grassley was recognized for his leadership as chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, securing a historic number of federal judicial confirmations during the 115th Congress, including two Supreme Court justices. A longtime supporter of agriculture and agriculture retail, this is the second time Grassley has been honored as ARA Legislator of the Year.

"Iowa is an agricultural powerhouse. As a leading producer of pork, corn, soybeans and eggs, agriculture anchors Iowa's economy and helps put food on tables across America," Sen. Grassley said. "Supporting workers and businesses that help Iowa's farmers succeed has been a top priority during my time in the Senate. It's an honor to receive this recognition."

Wicker was honored for his support on important industry issues, such as promoting precision agriculture and rural broadband deployment.

"With nearly 37,000 farms covering more than 10 million acres and generating more than $7 billion in economic activity, Mississippi is home to many hard-working men and women who provide critical support to our farmers and ranchers," Wicker said. "I will continue to promote policies that help America's agricultural producers thrive."

ARA presents its Legislator of the Year award annually to a member, or members, of Congress who champion legislation important to the agricultural retail industry. The awards were presented during the ARA Board of Directors and Committee Meetings in Washington, D.C.



USMEF Economist Stresses Importance of Trade with Japan at USDA Outlook Forum

The importance of Japan as a trading partner for U.S. agriculture was the focus of a Feb. 22 panel discussion at the USDA Agricultural Outlook Forum in Arlington, Virginia. U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) Economist Erin Borror explained that Japan is the leading value destination for both U.S. beef and U.S. pork, with 2018 exports expected to reach $2.1 billion and $1.65 billion, respectively, when year-end data is available. But Borror also cautioned that the competitive terrain in Japan has gotten steeper for U.S. red meat due to Japan’s preferential trade agreements with Australia, the European Union, Canada, New Zealand, Mexico and Chile, and this situation will worsen unless the United States secures similar access terms with Japan.

Borror noted that U.S. beef export value per head of fed slaughter averaged a record $320.72 in 2018, up 14 percent year-over-year and shattering the previous high ($300.36) set in 2014. Japan accounts for one-fourth of this total, or $82.75 per head. The ratio is similar for U.S. pork export value, which averaged $51.46 per head slaughtered in 2018. Japan accounted for $13.18, or 26 percent of the total per-head value.

She also explained that beef and pork make up a significant portion of U.S. agricultural exports to Japan. The projected $3.92 billion in combined red meat product exports represent about 30 percent of the $13 billion in total U.S. ag exports to Japan, second only to grains and feeds.

Furthermore, Japan’s red meat consumption is likely to expand at a faster rate once the benefits of lower import duties are passed along to consumers. In South Korea, for example, the tariff rate on U.S. beef has dropped by more than half since 2012 under the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement, and U.S. beef enjoys a tariff rate advantage over its competitors. Most pork from the United States and other major suppliers enters Korea at zero duty. Red meat is now more affordable and accessible for Korean consumers who have responded enthusiastically, with per capita consumption setting new records. A similar development in Japan will only benefit the U.S. beef and pork industries if they are on a level playing field with competitors.

Without a U.S.-Japan trade agreement, potential losses for the U.S. meat industry are substantial. On a per-head basis, Borror estimates lost export opportunities for U.S. beef will reach $18.70 by 2023 and $42 by 2028. For pork, the per-head loss is projected to be $4.55 by 2023 and $7.06 by 2028. U.S. exporters are already feeling the effects of tariff disadvantages of 11 percentage points for beef cuts and 6.4 percentage points for beef tongues and skirts. For pork, the most immediate impact is on processed and value-added products, where tariffs are quickly being phased to zero. This is already eroding U.S. market share for important products such as ground seasoned pork. Japan’s imports of U.S. ground seasoned pork were valued at $288 million last year.

“Unless the U.S. and Japan can quickly reach a trade agreement, lost opportunities will mount as Japanese companies seek more value-added, further processed products from suppliers such as the EU and Mexico,” Borror explained. “Decisions that are being made today will transform the business and without clear indications that the U.S. and Japan will reach an agreement, the U.S. industry is likely to suffer permanent losses in market share and related investment. Japan is irreplaceable as a trading partner, given its demand for high-value chilled pork cuts, and it is seen as an increasingly important market for value-added pork. At a time when U.S. companies are looking to produce more value-added and branded products, the industry cannot afford to miss these opportunities in Japan.”

These lost export opportunities also carry serious implications for U.S. agriculture and the rural economy. Exports to Japan are estimated to directly support more than 4 percent of the jobs in the meat packing and processing industry. Absent a trade agreement with Japan, an annual cost of $5.2 billion in direct economic losses to other businesses and industries will result in the top 15 meat packing and processing states. Over the next 10 years, an estimated 23,600 jobs outside the meat industry would be lost in those 15 states.

Joining Borror on the discussion panel were Jeffrey Schott, senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, and Ben Conner, vice president of policy for U.S. Wheat Associates. More details from Borror’s presentation are available online.

Borror also addressed the USDA Outlook Forum on Feb. 21, covering a range of topics impacting global red meat trade. These included the spread of African swine fever (ASF) in China, which has the potential to increase China’s need for imported pork. ASF’s expansion in Europe also impacts global trade, as some countries have suspended imports from European Union member states in which ASF is confirmed.

Borror also detailed the impact of ongoing trade disputes on U.S. red meat exports, including imposition of retaliatory duties on U.S. pork by China and Mexico. China also increased the duty rate for U.S. beef last year, and Canada imposed retaliatory duties on prepared beef products imported from the United States.

Retaliation has weighed less heavily on U.S. beef exports, which were record-large in 2018 and surged by more than $1 billion over the previous year. Pork export volume held steady with the record pace of 2017, but export value was pressured greatly in the second half of the year, following retaliatory actions by China and Mexico. Borror explained the retaliatory tariffs have been paid by the U.S. pork industry as prices for hams, picnics, feet and hocks – key items for export to Mexico and China – were down an average of about 20 percent from June through December last year, and this translated into year-over-year losses of $11.75 per head. Industry losses, just for these products, amounted to $860 million.



 African Swine Fever Confirmed on Three Vietnam Farms

African swine fever has been detected on three farms in northern Vietnam, the Animal Health Department said on Tuesday.  Authorities have culled all the pigs on the farms located in Hung Yen and Thai Binh provinces, southeast of the capital Hanoi.

The highly contagious fever is incurable in pigs but does not harm people. The disease has spread rapidly across neighboring China since August, affecting 25 provinces and regions.  Pork accounts for three quarters of total meat consumption in Vietnam, a country of 95 million people. Most pigs are consumed domestically.



Prices for Most Fertilizers Continue to Climb

Average retail prices for most fertilizers were slightly higher the third week of February 2019, according to retailers surveyed by DTN. As was the case last week, all but two fertilizers increased in price compared to a month earlier.

Prices of six fertilizers were up from last month, though most were up only slightly. MAP had an average price of $536 per ton, potash $385/ton, 10-34-0 $470/ton, anhydrous $596/ton, UAN28 $271/ton and UAN32 $317/ton.

The remaining two fertilizers were slightly lower in price compared to the third week of January. DAP had an average price of $512/ton and urea $404/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.44/lb.N, anhydrous $0.36/lb.N, UAN28 $0.48/lb.N and UAN32 $0.50/lb.N.

All eight of the major fertilizers are now higher compared to last year with prices shifting higher. MAP is 8% more expensive, DAP is 11% higher, potash is 12% more expensive, both urea and 10-34-0 is 13% higher, UAN28 is 17% more expensive and both anhydrous and UAN32 is now 20% higher compared to last year.



Land O'Lakes, Inc. reports annual results for 2018, Posts $14.9 billion in sales

Land O'Lakes, Inc. today reported net sales of $14.9 billion and net earnings of $255 million for the year ending December 31, 2018 compared with net sales of $13.7 billion and net earnings of $365 million in 2017. The company's net earnings included a non-recurring charge for the estimated withdrawal liability associated with its participation in a multi-employer pension plan. Excluding the effect of this charge, the company's fiscal year net earnings were $309 million.

"As Land O'Lakes, Inc. and many others in our industry navigated a year marked by change, challenge and transition, we continued building on core strategies for future success in a changing marketplace," said Beth Ford, president and CEO of Land O'Lakes, Inc. "With a strong foundation built on technology, differentiated services and a world-class branded products portfolio, we enter 2019 well-positioned to lead farmer-to-fork innovation in unique and unexpected areas."

In 2018, Dairy Foods capitalized on its focus on growth areas in the sector. Marketplace-back, on-trend convenience foods, along with snack, desserts and food service delivered strong performance, which helped offset lower retail product mix and compressed margins on milk powders. In Animal Nutrition, insights and breadth of the product offering along with improved premix margins helped mitigate a challenging livestock environment in which producers were sometimes trading down. Business results in Crop Inputs and Insights were lower, reflecting increased competitiveness and a shift in product mix attributed to low commodity markets and the general decline of farm income. The Land O'Lakes SUSTAIN business, launched by Land O'Lakes to help farmers mitigate environmental impact while increasing potential profits, welcomed new customers and new partnerships throughout the year.



Farm Bureau Asks for More Flexible Livestock Hauling Rules

The American Farm Bureau Federation is asking the Department of Transportation to give livestock haulers flexibility in meeting certain hours of service requirements to better address the unique needs of the live animals they’re transporting, while still prioritizing road safety.

Farm Bureau’s comments to DOT and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration were submitted in response to a petition filed by the organization and several others asking that DOT allow drivers who complete fatigue management training, have a sufficient safety record, and are willing to follow certain documentary requirements to drive 15 hours during a 16-hour work day and rest the currently required 10 hours.  Current rules limit drive time to 11 hours and limit on-duty hours to 14.

“Farm Bureau believes that the 11-and 14-hour rules were not drafted with livestock haulers in mind and thus do not accommodate the unique character of their loads and nature of their trips. Livestock hauling is like no other, and, therefore, requires flexibility due to the many circumstances that go along with hauling live animals,” the group said.

While some livestock hauls from the ranch to the market, and from the market to the next destination, can be completed in the currently allowed 11 hours, several cannot, making the additional four hours of drive time necessary to complete the longer hauls between where cattle are born, fed and harvested, Farm Bureau explained.

Allowing additional drive time would benefit the animals because they rely on a moving trailer to keep them comfortable. In fact, industry guidelines mandate that drivers avoid any stops while hauling livestock, especially in warmer weather, as the trailers are designed to cool the animals down while in motion.

“Clearly, the majority of livestock cannot withstand the stress of 10 hours stopped without airflow or the added time on the trailer necessitated by such an extended rest,” Farm Bureau said.

Unloading the animals for a 10-hour break isn’t feasible either. First, there are very few livestock rest areas along the interstate system. Second, there’s potential for injury to the animals during the unloading and reloading processes. Third, the comingling of animals at a rest stop presents severe biosecurity risks.  Drivers who reach driving time limits while hauling animals will face a difficult decision: comply with animal welfare laws and guidelines or comply with HOS rules, Farm Bureau pointed out.

As the exemption petition states, by completing extra training and conducting trip planning activities, livestock haulers can use the extra drive time in an equally safe manner. Farm Bureau also believes the current HOS rules do not take full advantage of modern fatigue management research and the experience of other countries showing that on-duty time limits alone are not optimal tools for managing operator fatigue in the livestock hauling industry.

In granting the exemption, DOT would be bringing HOS rules up to date with current approaches to fatigue management and aligning those rules with Secretary Chao’s performance-based, data-driven approach for overseeing the safety of the nation’s transportation systems and operators.

“Under this exemption, livestock haulers would be able to more appropriately manage their own rest and work schedules under fatigue management measures outlined in the petition, to ensure both the well-being of their livestock and the safe operation of their commercial motor vehicles,” Farm Bureau said.

Along with Farm Bureau, the petition was signed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Livestock Marketing Association, American Beekeeping Federation, American Honey Producers Association and the National Aquaculture Association.



Senators Urge Commerce to Conduct Transparent Review of Argentina’s Biodiesel Subsidies

Today, the National Biodiesel Board (NBB) thanked a bipartisan group of 14 Senators – led by Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) – for writing to Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross regarding his agency’s recently launched “changed circumstances” review of U.S. duties on biodiesel imports from Argentina. In the letter, the Senators ask Commerce to develop a complete record of Argentina’s biodiesel trade actions before determining whether revisiting the U.S. duties is warranted.

The letter notes that in early 2018 the U.S. Department of Commerce issued countervailing duty and antidumping orders on imports of certain biodiesel products from Argentina, following an extensive trade investigation. Then in December 2018, Commerce initiated “changed circumstances” reviews to assess Argentina’s most recent modification to its export tax regime and whether it warrants a review of the U.S. antidumping and countervailing duty orders issued only months before.

“It is unclear why Commerce would afford a special review to Argentina and its biodiesel industry when the ink on these antidumping and countervailing duty orders is barely dry,” the group of Senators state in the letter.

“In the short period since the antidumping and countervailing duty orders were imposed, U.S. biodiesel producers have been able to compete on a more level playing field and the U.S. biodiesel industry has begun to recover from the injury caused by the unfair trade practices of the Argentine government and industry,” they continue.

Domestic biodiesel production increased by 17 percent or more than 300 million gallons in 2018, compared to 2017.

The letter is co-signed by Senators Roy Blunt (R-MO), Mike Braun (R-IN), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-WI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), John Thune (R-SD), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). 

Kurt Kovarik, NBB’s Vice President of Federal Affairs, added, “NBB and its members appreciate the leadership of Senators Grassley, Cantwell and others from across the country who raised their concerns about fair trade with Secretary Ross. Over the past two years, Argentina has made more than a dozen changes to its export tax rates and has continued to massively subsidize its biodiesel industry. Given this history, Commerce should understand that Argentina is very likely to continue subsidizing its domestic biodiesel industry in the future. Commerce’s changed circumstances reviews must take into account a full record of Argentina’s actions since the closing of Commerce’s prior investigation.”



U.S. Dairy Industry Faces Billion-Dollar Losses If EU Geographical Indications Schemes Proliferate

The U.S. dairy industry - and the U.S. economy - could be hit with $9.5 billion to $20-billion in revenue losses if the European Union (EU) is successful in expanding restrictions on the use of generic terms like parmesan, asiago, feta and others, according to a new study conducted by Informa Agribusiness Consulting, commissioned by the Consortium for Common Food Names (CCFN) and the U.S. Dairy Export Council. The study, which provides timely information in light of U.S.-EU trade negotiations, examines the potential impact the EU's aggressive geographical indications (GI) agenda would have if imposed on a broad variety of U.S. cheeses and markets.

Seizing the common names that U.S. marketers have used for generations would confuse and alienate both domestic and international consumers, leading to a dramatic drop in demand for U.S. cheese. Prices could fall 14%, and consumption of U.S.-produced cheeses could drop by 306 million to 814 million pounds in the first three years. At the same time, EU cheese exports could see a surge of 13%, thereby exacerbating the existing $1.4 billion U.S.-EU dairy trade deficit. The impact of GI restrictions would also have grave effects on the broader dairy industry, through plummeting milk prices and shifting demand, as well as on the broader U.S. economy. Informa's study reveals that between 108,000 and 223,000 jobs could be at risk, while GDP could fall $12 billion to $25 billion over three years.

"The threat is serious and mounting; the EU is very clear in its intentions and the scope of its GI restrictions continues to expand," said CCFN Executive Director Jaime Castaneda. "Already we have seen European groups attempt to seize usage of specific names in the U.S. market, including parmigiano, asiago, romano, and gruyere. And in key export markets around the world, the EU is abusing GI policies to dismantle competition and erect barriers to trade. Only collaborative actions between the U.S. government and impacted industries will stop the EU's increasingly aggressive efforts and ensure that other countries hold the line against the EU."

In testimony this week to the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, Castaneda urged the Administration to be as strong and persistent in protecting market access opportunities for U.S. agriculture on this issue as the EU has been in fighting to impose GI-related market restrictions.

"This study sends a clear warning to U.S. negotiators to stand firm, and not to give into the EU's sweeping demands on GI protections that over-step the bounds of fair trade," Castaneda said.

In addition to assessing the impact of banning the use of terms currently under attack by the EU, the study also looked at the impact if subsequent GI status is approved for popular cheeses like provolone and mozzarella. The EU has not provided clear assurances that use of these additional terms will not be restricted in future, and EU GIs continue to proliferate. The study found that damage would continue to mount in this scenario, reaching a cumulative $71.8 billion in lost farm revenue over 10 years.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 2/22/2019

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association, ethanol production rebounded to an average of 1.028 million barrels per day (b/d), or 43.18 million gallons daily. This was 32,000 b/d (3.2%) higher than the previous week. The four-week average ethanol production rate rose slightly (0.4%) to 1.005 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.41 billion gallons.

Stocks of ethanol declined 204,000 barrels, or 0.8%, to 23.7 million barrels.

There were no imports for the fifteenth week in a row. (Weekly export data for ethanol is not reported simultaneously; the latest export data is as of November 2018.)

Average weekly gasoline supplied to the market grew 2.1% to 8.981 million b/d (377.2 million gallons per day, or 137.68 billion gallons annualized). Refiner/ blender net inputs of ethanol tapered 0.6% to 882,000 b/d—equivalent to 13.52 billion gallons annualized, while the four-week average stands 0.5% higher than the year-ago level.

Expressed as a percentage of daily gasoline demand, daily ethanol production increased to 11.45%.



RFA Statement on Status of Year-Round E15 Rule

In remarks to the House Agriculture Committee today, USDA Secretary Sonny Perdue said the final rule allowing year-round E15 may not be done in time for the start of the summer driving season. Renewable Fuels Association President and CEO Geoff Cooper had the following statement:

“We were very disappointed to hear that the regulatory fix allowing year-round E15 may not be completed by the beginning of the summer driving season. The American ethanol industry and farmers across the country have suffered greatly as a result of former EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt’s efforts to destroy demand for renewable fuels and undermine the effectiveness of the Renewable Fuel Standard. That is why President Trump’s promise last October to allow year-round sales of E15 by this summer was met with such enthusiasm and appreciation, and why the suggestion today that EPA will break that promise represents such a gut punch, if it is indeed true.

“We have no doubt that the so-called ‘RIN reforms’ sought by oil refiners are bogging this rulemaking down. Thus, I reiterate the request we formally made last month to split RIN reform and year-round E15 into two separate rulemakings and expedite the E15 rule. The year-round E15 provisions are straightforward, and there is no reason they could not be promulgated by this summer, particularly as President Trump made the commitment to resolve this red-tape regulatory barrier nearly five months ago. Ethanol plants are shutting their doors and laying off workers, while farmers are facing the worst market conditions in more than a decade—we need EPA to honor the President’s promise to allow year-round E15 now!”



EPA Statement on RVP/RIN market reform proposal

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the following statement on the Renewable Fuel Standard Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) / Renewable Identification Number (RIN) market reform proposal:

“EPA is planning on releasing its RVP/RIN market reform proposal in March, and working expeditiously to propose and finalize the rule consistent with the President’s direction before the start of the summer driving season.”



National Sorghum Producers Launches New, Mobile-Friendly Website

National Sorghum Producers launched a new and enhanced version of SorghumGrowers.com with a refreshed brand and focus on increased grassroots engagement. The website offers an easy-to-use advocacy platform for enhanced member engagement along with the latest news and issues impacting the sorghum industry.

“The importance of grassroots representation by producer organizations is more critical now than ever,” said Jennifer Blackburn, NSP external affairs director. “This website acknowledges our member base at the heart and soul of our organization and provides a space where sorghum farmers can learn about the latest legislative and regulatory issues impacting their farms and engage easily and effectively at home or on the go.”

New and updated features include:
    Responsive, dynamic sizing that will allow for uninterrupted viewing on computers, smartphones, tablets and more.
    An advocacy page where farmers can sign up to receive action alerts from NSP along with tips to become more engaged at home and in Washington, D.C.
    Impact page featuring wins and the financial return NSP has achieved on behalf of sorghum producers, starting from its founding in 1955 to ending the China case in 2018 and more.
    All-new Sorghum Grower magazine section where articles can be browsed by issue or topic, plus digital advertising availability.
    A page for the newly-developed "Sorghum Smart Talk" podcast where viewers can listen to latest episodes.
    More information about the National Sorghum Foundation and its scholarship programs, plus ways to donate.

Those interested in viewing the website can go to SorghumGrowers.com.



Animal Ag Alliance Stakeholders Summit to Kick Off with Consumer Focus Group

The Animal Agriculture Alliance’s 2019 Stakeholders Summit themed, A Seat At The Table,will kick off with a live consumer focus group to help attendees better understand consumer perceptions of animal agriculture. The event be held May 8-9 at the InterContinental at the Plaza Hotel in Kansas City, Missouri. Discounted registration rates are available through April 1. To view the agenda and register, visit http://summit.animalagalliance.org.

Summit attendees will have the unique opportunity to hear directly from their customers and ask them questions about how they find information about food and farming during the focus group panel, conducted by Anne-Marie Roerink of 210 Analytics. Panelists will be asked to share how they decide what to buy at the grocery store and order off of the restaurant menu, including whether issues like animal welfare, sustainability and antibiotic use factor into their decisions.

Roerink provides customized research with a specialty in food retailing for clients such as the North American Meat Institute, Food Marketing Institute, National Grocers Association, National Confectioners Association and many others. Through countless consumer studies, she has developed an excellent perspective on the ever-changing wants and needs of the grocery shopper in a one-size-fits-no-one world. Prior to founding 210 Analytics, Roerink was the Head of Research for the Food Marketing Institute. Anne-Marie designs and authors the annual Power of Meat study, along with similar studies in produce, deli prepared, frozen, SmartFood, bakery, candy and other categories.

One of the attendees at this year’s Summit will be Wanda Patsche, a pig farmer from Minnesota. Wanda earned first place in the Alliance’s “A Seat At The Table” farmer photo contest, winning a trip to the Summit. Her photo featured a porkchop with the tagline “when you only had one job…and you nailed it.” Second place went to Melinda Bastian, a cattle rancher from Missouri.

The 2019 Summit has been approved for seven CEUs eligible for ARPAS members. Be sure to check the Summit website for the most up-to-date Summit information. You can also follow the hashtags #AAA19 for periodic updates about the event.



American Agri-Women elects two new officers at annual convention

American Agri-Women installed its executive committee at its annual convention, held recently in Springfield, Ill. Two new officers joined the standing members of the executive committee.

Lesley Schmidt of Kansas Agri-Women was elected to a two-year term as vice president of education. Natalina Sents from Iowa Agri-Women was elected to a two-term as secretary.

Officers returning for their second year of a two-year term are Jeanette Lombardo of California Women for Agriculture, president; Karolyn Zurn of Minnesota Agri-Women, first vice president; Katie Yost of Montana Agri-Women, treasurer; and Doris Mold of Minnesota Agri-Women, past president.

Schmidt has a passion for agriculture and teaching others about the ag industry. She represents the fifth-generation of her Kansas family farm, where she raises crops and livestock with her family. Schmidt is also a civil designer, cartographer and permitting specialist for a private engineering firm. She has previously served as president of Kansas Agri-Women, is a current board member of the AAW Foundation, Agri-Business Council of Wichita and Challenge Foundation. She has been involved in many other agriculture and community organizations including 4-H, CommonGround, Kansas Beef Endurance Team, the Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership (KARL) program with an international study tour in South Africa and Young Professionals of Wichita. Schmidt graduated from Fort Hays State University with degrees in technology studies, agriculture and certificates in leadership studies and civic leadership. She is also a certified sports coach and track and field official, with the goal of officiating in the Olympics.

Sents has served as interim secretary since February 2018. Immediately after graduating from Iowa State University with a degree in agricultural business, Sents pitched, planned, and partnered with Beck’s Hybrids on a year-long 50 state road trip, honoring farmers through blogs and photography in all 50 states. After completing the “Why I Farm Road Trip” and returning to the Midwest, she finished a number of freelance projects, and began speaking about her traveling experiences around the country. In October 2017, Sents joined the Successful Farming staff as the Digital Content Editor of Agriculture.com. In that role, she coordinates the back end of the website, and manages the brand’s social media accounts and strategy. While new machinery is her area of focus, Sents enjoys writing a variety of news and information in a way that serves farmers. Those responsibilities allow her to travel several times a month. Outside her full-time job, she still speaks at conferences around the country and does consulting work on the side. As a hobby, Sents works in the restaurant industry, and enjoys learning about other perspectives of food and agriculture through that lens.