Weekend Ag News Roundup - June 7

Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Announces Scholarship Recipients

The Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation (NCF) is pleased to announce it has awarded $61,200 in scholarships to students furthering their education goals in the 2020-2021 academic year.

“The Foundation strongly believes in the importance of a sound education for tomorrow’s industry leaders and is pleased to be able to provide this funding to these outstanding students to aid in their academic career,” says Mark Jagels, president of the Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation.  “Due to the generosity of many donors and the success of our Retail Value Steer Challenge fundraising project, the Foundation was able to offer an additional $5,000 in scholarship funds over last years awarded scholarships.”

The 2020 Nebraska Cattlemen Beef State Scholarship was awarded to Renae Sieck of Martell.  This premier scholarship is a $10,000 scholarship that was established in 2014 to support outstanding junior, senior or graduate level Nebraska resident students enrolled in a Nebraska college or university pursuing a beef industry related degree.  Renae is currently working on her Master of Science degree at the University of Nebraska in Animal Breeding and Genetics.

In addition to the Beef State Scholarship, the Foundation awarded 47 additional scholarships to the following students:
    Madison Adam, Alliance – $1,200 Clarence & Lois Jean Hartmann Scholarship
    Lauren Ahlers, Rosalie – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Regan Alfs, Shickley – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Taylor Cammach, DeWitt – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Dana Christen, Steinauer – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Lacie Cruise, Genoa – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Clay Curtis, Royal – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Caitlyn Deal, Sidney – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Ashton Erickson, Wallace – $1,200 Ron & Shirley Huss Scholarship
    Jais Ford, Cody – $1,200 Clarence & Lois Jean Hartmann Scholarship
    Olivia Fredrick, Amherst – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Kathlyn Hauxwell, McCook – $1,200 Ron & Shirley Huss Scholarship
    Brea Hostert, Atkinson – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    TaraLee Hudson, Belvidere – $1,200 Bill Briggs Family Memorial Scholarship
    Loyal Johnson, Burr – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Elizabeth Karnopp, Oakland – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Marissa Kegley, Kearney – $1,200 Robert F. Lute II Memorial Scholarhip
    Felicia Knoerzer, Elwood – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Korbin Kudera, Clarkson – $1,200 Bill Pullen Scholarship
    Weston Kunkee, Lexington – $1,200 Frank & Shirley Sibert Scholarship
    George Lee, Elsie – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Malina Lindstrom, Elm Creek – $1,200 Vance Uden Memorial Scholaship
    Kelsey Loseke, Blair – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarshp
    Carsten Loseke, Columbus – $1,200 Col. Melvin Huss Memorial Scholarship
    BaiLee McMillan, Milburn – $1,200 Col. Melvin Huss Memorial Scholarship
    Shalyn Miller, Norfolk – $1,200 Cattlemen’s Open Scholarship
    Katherine Mohr, Genoa – $1,200 Bill Heller Memorial Scholarship
    Taylor Peter, O’Neill – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Savannah Peterson, Gothenburg – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Bailee Porter, Norfolk – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Laura Reiling, Malcolm – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Tigh Renken, Bertand – $1,200 Vance Uden Memorial Scholarship
    Grant Reynolds, Ansley – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Ralston Ripp, Kearney – $1,200 Donavan Yoachim Memorial Scholarship
    Trevor Ross, Callaway – $1,000 West Central Affiliate Scholarship
    Rebel Sjeklocha, Hayes Center – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Joseph Sonderman, Columbus – $1,200 Nebraska Cattlemen Beef Pit Scholarship
    Jace Stagemeyer, Page – $1,200 Robert F. Lute II Memorial Scholarship
    Issac Stallbaumer, Oconto – $1,200 Cattlemen’s Open Scholarship
    Jency Starr, North Platte – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Jacqueline Stauffer, Ashland – $1,200 Vance Uden Memorial Scholarship
    Justin Stengel, Shickley – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Colton Thompson, Eustis – $1,200 Todd Ricenbaw Memorial Scholarship
    Lauren Trauernicht, Wymore – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Wesley Wach, Wauneta – $1,200 Bill Heller Memorial Scholarship
    James Wetovick, Fullerton – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship
    Jonathan Wetovick, Fullerton – $1,000 Retail Value Steer Challenge Scholarship



Nebraska Cattlemen is Pleased to Announce Willis as Director of NCIG

Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) announces Jeff Willis as Director of Nebraska Cattlemen Insurance Group (NCIG).

The Nebraska Cattlemen leadership and staff are very excited for the unique opportunity to have Jeff Willis be an active member of the NC team. Being a current employee of Harry A. Koch Company, Jeff will actively work with NC staff focused on marketing NCIG products and promoting Nebraska Cattlemen membership.

Jeff Willis has brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to HAK and NCIG. Jeff’s background includes working in feedlot operations as well as a livestock production manager for a commercial feed mill operation. For the past 20 years Jeff has worked in the Financial Services sector and has been instrumental in facilitating business transition planning and developing banking relationships for the agricultural community.

“Jeff Willis is an ideal representative to share NCIG opportunities and membership benefits to current and prospective members. His personal background in the cattle industry allows Jeff to have a direct understanding of what beef producers deal with every day. We’re thrilled to have Jeff be an active part of the NC team.” Pete McClymont, NC Executive Vice President.

“I am confident Jeff will be key to bringing knowledge and experience to NC members as Director of NCIG. He is a great communicator, hard worker, and problem solver, — with a great sense of humor. This position was made for someone just like Jeff.” Jeff Scanlan, Senior Vice President at Harry A Koch Co.

Jeff Willis resides in Shelby, Nebraska with his wife and 4 children. In his free time, he enjoys landscaping, tinkering in his old gas station and driving his ’95 Peterbilt. Jeff can be reached at (402)366-5431 or by email at NCIG@necattlemen.org



LENRD scholarships awarded to area graduates

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) recently awarded four scholarships to area graduates.  The $500 scholarships are given to graduating High School Seniors within the district who are planning to further their education in a natural resources or agriculture related field.

To be eligible for a scholarship the student must be a graduating high school senior who resides or whose family owns land within the LENRD boundaries.  The student must have an overall grade point average of a 2.0, or higher, on a 4.0 scale.  The student must also attend an accredited college, community college or vocational school the semester following graduation.

The four graduates selected to receive scholarships in 2020 are:  Casey Doernemann of Dodge, Madeline Huwaldt of Osmond, Garret Kroupa of Pierce, and Mikayla Martensen of Humphrey.

Casey Doernemann is a graduate of Guardian Angels Central Catholic in West Point.  He plans to attend the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and major in Agri-Business.  Casey is the son of Jim and Lynda Doernemann of Dodge.

Madeline Huwaldt is a graduate of Osmond High School.  She plans to attend South Dakota State University and major in Agricultural Communications.  Madeline is the daughter of Brad and Marla Huwaldt of Osmond.

Garret Kroupa is a graduate of Pierce High School.  He plans to attend Northeast Community College and major in Diversified Agriculture.  Garret is the son of Mike and Lanette Kroupa of Pierce.

Mikayla Martensen is a graduate of Humphrey High School.  She plans to attend Northwest Missouri State University and major in Agricultural Education.  Mikayla is the daughter of Jeff and Jennifer Martensen of Humphrey.

LENRD Information & Education Specialist, Julie Wragge, said, “The LENRD board and staff would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our scholarship winners and thank all students who took the time to apply.  We’re happy to support you in your future endeavors and we encourage you to remember how important the protection of our natural resources is for our future.  Good luck to all of you!”



Safety remains the top priority, planning continues for State Fair

The Nebraska State Fair is on schedule for August 28 – September 7, 2020.  While we are all facing many uncertainties, our team is optimistic and continuing to prepare and plan.  The safety and well-being of our guests, participants, partners, sponsors and community always comes first, so we are closely following the directives of local and national health agencies: Central District Health Department, Department of Agriculture, the City of Grand Island, Hall County, and the Nebraska Governor’s Office.

On Monday, the State Fair Administration Office reopened for necessary foot traffic, including the Nebraska Lottery Claim center, which operates Monday – Thursday from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (closed noon - 1 p.m.).  Wearing masks is currently required inside the State Fair facilities whenever six-foot distancing cannot be maintained. 

We are grateful for the community’s patience and support, and we look forward to being part of Nebraska’s healing. For more information on the state’s largest event, visit statefair.org.



Aksarben Plans continue on track for Sept 24-27

The Aksarben Stock Show presented by the Aksarben Foundation remains on schedule for September 24 – 27, 2020.  The stock show is managed and produced by the Nebraska State Fair.  While we are all facing many uncertainties, our team is optimistic and continuing to prepare and plan.  The safety and well-being of our guests, exhibitors, contestants, vendors, sponsors and community always comes first, so we are closely following the directives of local and national health agencies: Central District Health Department, Department of Agriculture, the City of Grand Island, Hall County, and the Nebraska Governor’s Office.

We are grateful for the community’s patience and support, and we look forward to being part of the Heartland’s healing.  Show judge announcements were made for beef, swine, sheep and goat on social media.  Respectfully Chan Phillips from Oklahoma for beef; Kim Brock from Oklahoma for swine; Brent Jennings from North Carolina for sheep, and Nick Hammett from Missouri will judge goats.  There were over 2,800 animals entered for the 2019 Aksarben Stock Show.

Thank you to our 2020 sponsors and donors: Aksarben Foundation, American Foods Group, Farm Credit Services of America, Five Points Bank, First National Bank of Omaha, Nebraska State Fair, Nebraska Farm Bureau, Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation, Pinnacle Bank, and Valmont.  For more information on the state’s largest stock show, visit www.showaksarben.com.



Farmland Ownership and Crop Marketing Webinars on June 12 and June 16

Two free one-hour webinars are available to the public on Friday, June 12, and Tuesday, June 16. Speakers will include Kristine Tidgren, director of the Center for Agricultural Law and Taxation, and Steve Johnson, farm management specialist, both with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

The first webinar, Farmland Owners Update, will be presented on Friday, June 12, at noon CDT. Tidgren will update farmland owners on recent legal and tax updates, including a review of COVID-19 legislation, particularly Paycheck Protection Program loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans. Johnson will discuss the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program payments, 2020 crop budgets, and Iowa State University's Cash Rental Rates for Iowa 2020 Survey. The webinar will last about one hour, followed by questions.

The webinar is free but requires pre-registration online at the ISU CALT site:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6455298045166391053.

A second webinar, Crop Marketing Strategies, will be presented on Tuesday, June 16, at 7 p.m. CDT. Johnson will review both old and new crop supply/demand and cash price projections, highlight crop marketing strategies and tools, and feature written crop marketing plans for a 1,000-acre row-crop example farm. The webinar will last about one hour, followed by questions.

The webinar is free but requires pre-registration online at this site:  https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7677526165718660877.

If you miss the live webinar, search for Webinar Replay and Resources on the ISU CALT site: https://www.calt.iastate.edu/.

For more information, contact the webinar presenters. Tidgren can be reached at 515-294-6365, or ktidgren@iastate.edu. Johnson can be reached at 515-957-5790, or sdjohns@iastate.edu.



Iowa Cattlemen Hosts Virtual BeefMeets
Out of an abundance of caution, the Iowa Cattlemen's Association has decided to transition in-person BeefMeets into a webinar series. You can find all of the information below. These will also be broadcasted live on Facebook and recordings will be posted here for playback.

June 10 | 7:00 pm - Pasture Management & Mineral Requirement Webinar
Make the most  out of your pasture land through rotational grazing and maximize herd health by knowing mineral and supplementation requirements from Kent Feeds PhD Ruminant Nutritionist, Dr. Brandon Koch.

June 17 | 7:00 pm  - Price Discovery in the Fed Cattle Market
Join us on a webinar to hear about the need for more price discovery through increased cash negotiated trade across the country, ICA's efforts to bring back leverage to the independent producer and possible solutions for the problem. 
 Panelists:
    Corbitt Wall, DV Auction Livestock Market Analyst
    Brad Kooima, ICA Feedlot Council Member from Rock Valley, IA

June 24 | 7:00 pm - Farm to Table: Selling Beef Locally
Interested in selling beef local in your community? This webinar will provide the do's and don't from the perspective of a family who currently markets beef locally, the expert on rules and regulations from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and how the Iowa Beef Checkoff is helping to connect local beef suppliers with their Iowa Local Beef Directory.
Panelists:
    Jason & Amy Boyer, Cattle Producer from Weldon, IA
    Janis Hochstetler, HACCP & Labeling Coordinator, Iowa Dept. of Ag.
    Dr. Terry Houser, ISU Extension Meat Specialist
    Iowa Beef Industry Council - funded by the Iowa State Beef Checkoff Program

Get more information and register here: https://www.iacattlemen.org/events-meetings/beefmeets-regional-conventions.



Iowa Beef Checkoff Introduces Directory to Connect Beef Producer to Local Buyers

The Iowa Beef Industry Council (IBIC) is excited to announce the launch of a local beef directory to connect beef producers with local buyers. This pandemic has ushered in a renewed interest in food security and ignited an increased interest from consumers to purchase beef directly from farmers. The Iowa Local Beef Directory will provide resources in helping shoppers navigate the buying process and connecting potential buyers to sellers.

“We have recently noticed an uptick in the frequency of producer inquiries searching for resources related to directly marketing beef. Furthermore, with supermarkets and grocery stores experiencing intermittent disruptions in availability of beef, we felt we had to do something to address the marketplace needs,” says Janine Moore, IBIC Chairman. “We understand this isn’t a solution that addresses all the challenges we face today but it’s a positive step forward in building a connection with beef farmers and shoppers.”

Iowa beef producers interested in submitting their information for listing can do so by visiting the Iowa Local Beef Directory submission page, on the Raising Beef tab, on our website, www.iabeef.org. The form allows producers to self-list to the directory which will be housed on the IBIC website.

Iowa beef producers proudly raise some of the world’s highest quality beef in a responsible and sustainable manner yielding mouth-watering beef destined for consumers across the globe. We want to make sure Iowa beef lovers are able to capitalize on that experience and we believe this initiative will help make that connection.

Listings will include farm name, contact name, city, additional certifications and website links so consumers can contact farmers directly. Questions received by IBIC regarding specific businesses will be directed back to the company.



EPA Responds to Ninth Circuit Vacatur of Dicamba Registrations

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler released the following statement on the Ninth Circuit Vacatur of dicamba registrations:

“We are disappointed with the decision. The 2020 growing season is well underway and this creates undue burden for our first conservationists – farmers. EPA has been overwhelmed with letters and calls from farmers nationwide since the Court issued its opinion, and these testimonies cite the devastation of this decision on their crops and the threat to America’s food supply. The Court itself noted in this order that it will place a great hardship on America’s farmers. This ruling implicates millions of acres of crops, millions of dollars already spent by farmers, and the food and fiber Americans across the country rely on to feed their families.”

“EPA is assessing all avenues to mitigate the impact of the Court’s decision on farmers.” 

The order addresses three registrations containing the active ingredient dicamba (Xtendimax with Vaporgrip Technology (EPA Reg. No. 524-617), Engenia – (EPA Reg. No. 7969-345), FeXapan – (EPA Reg. No. 352-913), which is a valuable pest control tool for America’s farmers.



NDA DIRECTOR WELLMAN COMMENTS ON DICAMBA RULING
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit issued a ruling on June 3 that vacated U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registrations for three dicamba herbicides (Xtendimax, FeXapan and Engenia). 

It is anticipated that the EPA will seek some type of further review, and possibly under emergency circumstances. Therefore, until such legal process is concluded, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture will continue to allow utilization.

“The Nebraska Department of Agriculture has not issued a stop sale order and will enforce the sales and applications of these products as they are currently registered in Nebraska,” said Director Steve Wellman.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Urges Attorney General, EPA to Explore “Any and All Options” to Continue Dicamba Usage

Nebraska Farm Bureau is urging Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler to expedite and explore any and all options to ensure Nebraska farmers can continue to use dicamba products impacted by a June 3 decision of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The ruling overturned EPA’s conditional registrations for three dicamba herbicides widely used for weed control in Nebraska soybean fields.

“The timing of this ruling couldn’t be worse. Dicamba products are stringently regulated and agricultural producers have a limited window to use these products. We are in that window of use time right now, but that window is rapidly closing. The timing of the court’s decision has needlessly created tremendous uncertainty for farmers. Worse yet, many farmers made planting decisions and herbicide purchases based on their understanding these dicamba products would be available for their weed control programs,” said Steve Nelson, Nebraska Farm Bureau president.

Given the time sensitive nature of the situation, Nebraska Farm Bureau reached out to Nebraska Attorney General Doug Peterson to encourage investigation into any legal actions that would provide immediate relief to and ensure farmers could continue to utilize the dicamba products.

Nebraska Farm Bureau also reached out to EPA Administrator Wheeler to encourage the agency to take a similar course of action, as EPA is responsible for oversight of the labeling authorizing the sale and use of the dicamba products. The agency is currently reviewing the court decision and has yet to provide an official response.

“The court’s ruling in the middle of the growing season is unconscionable. We’re doing everything we can to find an immediate solution to prevent Nebraska farmers from being negatively harmed by this poorly timed court ruling, who are already reeling from the impacts of COVID-19 on the agriculture economy,” said Nelson.



Secretary Naig Requests Guidance from EPA on Ninth Circuit Court’s Dicamba Ruling

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig has sent a letter to EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler requesting guidance on what the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit’s decision to vacate the EPA’s dicamba product registration means for Iowa farmers.

In the letter Secretary Naig wrote, “We are requesting that the EPA provides guidance about what this ruling means for producers in Iowa, and presents options to allow retailers and farmers to apply existing stocks during the 2020 growing season. This ruling is creating uncertainty at a time when farmers are already heading into the fields to treat emerging crops and it leaves them without effective weed management tools.”

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has not issued a stop sale order and will continue operating under the current pesticide program until it receives guidance from the EPA. The Department does not anticipate taking enforcement action against those who otherwise appropriately purchase, sell, or use these products in the interim. This enforcement decision may change immediately based on further guidance from the EPA.

Dicamba is an important weed management tool that Iowa farmers use to protect their crops. Water hemp, a weed commonly found in Iowa fields, has developed a resistance to many registered herbicide products, leaving producers with limited options for the 2020 growing season.



Ag Retailers Urge EPA to Seek Immediate Stay of Federal Court Order on Dicamba

Today, Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) President and CEO Daren Coppock sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler regarding the Ninth Circuit vacature of three dicamba labels earlier this week.

"The immediate nature of the decision and mandate has already created chaos in our industry," said Coppock. "Growers are now without options at the worst possible time in their production year."

The letter requests EPA appeal the federal court ruling "using all legal avenues available ..." U.S. farmers are in the heart of their growing season, and planting decisions and subsequent herbicide application plans have been made. Ag retailers and growers will be scrambling to secure alternatives, which may not be readily available in time.

"This decision by the Ninth Circuit is an overreach and must be corrected immediately," said Coppock. "This will have a major impact on this year's crops if not handled very soon. The farm economy has already experienced major struggles this year and this is one that can easily be avoided.



NCGA Statement on Dicamba Ruling

The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) is disappointed by the 9th Circuit’s decision to vacate the Environmental Protection Agency’s federal registrations for three dicamba products, Xtendimax, FeXapan, and Engenia. Farmers rely on EPA’s science-based process for developing appropriate and safe guidelines for the use of crop protection products.

NCGA urges the EPA to immediately appeal this ruling and obtain a stay of this overreaching court order. This decision to remove a weed control option, especially in the middle of the season, adds yet another challenge to an already difficult time and sets a concerning precedent.

Farmers have invested in previously allowed dicamba products, EPA should offer clarifying guidance and allow the use of existing stocks. NCGA is working closely with its partners and the EPA to understand the full ramifications of this decision and what options lie ahead for the future of the product.



April Red Meat Exports Weather Production Challenges, Economic Headwinds

April proved to be a solid month for U.S. beef and pork exports despite COVID-19 related interruptions in production and declining purchasing power of some key trading partners, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Beef exports were below last April’s large totals but still topped $600 million in value. Pork exports remained well above year-ago levels but slowed from the record pace established in the first quarter.

“Considering all the challenges the U.S. red meat industry faced in April, export results were encouraging,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Exporters lost several days of slaughter and processing due to COVID-19, and shipments to Mexico and some other Latin American markets declined due to slumping currencies and the imposition of stay-at-home orders. But despite these significant headwinds, global demand for U.S. beef and pork remained strong.”

While May export results will likely reflect similar obstacles, Halstrom noted that red meat production continues to recover, setting the stage for a strong second half of 2020.

“International customers are relieved to see U.S. production rebounding, solidifying our position as a reliable supplier,” he said. “This helps address a major concern for buyers, as COVID-19 has disrupted meat production in many countries – not just the United States. Demand remains robust for U.S. red meat, especially at retail, but USMEF is actively working with our foodservice customers across the globe to help ensure a strong recovery for the restaurant, catering and hospitality sectors. Many are adjusting to an entirely new business climate, and the U.S. industry assisting them in this process can help ensure that U.S. pork, beef and lamb will be featured on their menus.”

April beef exports were down 6% from a year ago to 98,613 metric tons (mt), with value falling 11% to $600.9 million. But exports achieved outstanding growth in Japan, where U.S. beef is benefiting from reduced tariffs under the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement, and trended higher to China following late-March implementation of the U.S.-China Phase One Economic and Trade Agreement. For January through April, beef exports totaled 433,316 mt, up 5% from a year ago, valued at $2.66 billion (up 3%).

With lower April slaughter numbers, beef export value per head of fed slaughter climbed to a record $363.35, up 19% from April 2019. For the first four months of the year, per-head export value increased 5% to $326.47. April beef exports accounted for 15.9% of total production and 13.5% for beef muscle cuts, up from 13.5% and 11.1%, respectively, a year ago. Through April, exports accounted for 14.4% of total beef production and 11.9% for muscle cuts, up from 13.8% and 11.2%, respectively, last year.

While China/Hong Kong continued to be the pacesetter for U.S. pork export growth, April exports also increased significantly to Japan, Vietnam and Chile. April volume reached 264,048 mt, up 22% from a year ago but the lowest since November 2019. Export value was $682.8 million, up 28% year-over-year but the lowest since October 2019. Through the first four months of 2020, pork exports remain on a record pace at 1.1 million mt, up 35% from a year ago, with value up 45% to $2.91 billion.

With production down significantly from the record levels achieved in March, pork export value per head slaughtered jumped to a record $72.55 in April, up 43% from a year ago. The January-April per-head average was $66.36, up 40%. April exports accounted for 36.2% of total pork production and 32.2% for pork muscle cuts, each up nearly 10 percentage points from a year ago. Through April, exports accounted for 32.4% of total pork production and 29.3% for muscle cuts, up from 24.9% and 21.8%, respectively, in the first four months of 2019.

U.S. beef capitalizing on market access gains in Japan
April beef exports to leading market Japan totaled 31,280 mt, up 30% from a year ago, while value was the highest since August 2018 at $196.4 million (up 25%). Through April, exports to Japan established a record pace at 114,152 mt (up 16% from a year ago) valued at $719.8 million (up 13%).

Although beef exports to South Korea cooled in April, 2020 shipments remained ahead of last year’s record pace. April exports totaled 19,411 mt, down 14% from a year ago, valued at $133.9 million (down 19%). But through April, exports to Korea were still up 6% from a year ago at 83,345 mt, valued at $598.7 million (up 4%). Korea eased social distancing and stay-at-home requirements in May, leading to a significant increase in domestic travel and foodservice demand through its early May holidays.

After a down year in 2019, demand for U.S. beef has rebounded in Canada. April exports were up 38% from a year ago at 10,850 mt, with value up 35% to $74.7 million. Through April, exports to Canada increased 25% in volume (35,399 mt) and 24% in value ($241.1 million). Canada faced production challenges similar to the U.S., with sharply reduced slaughter volumes in April and May.

Other January-April highlights for U.S. beef include:
-    April exports to Taiwan were steady with last year at 5,093 mt, valued at $47.5 million. Through April, shipments to Taiwan were 12% ahead of last year’s record pace at 20,868 mt, valued at $183.1 million (up 11%). Taiwan is an especially strong destination for chilled U.S. beef, with the United States capturing 74% of the chilled beef market. Taiwan’s imports of chilled U.S. beef have jumped by 25% year-over-year, bolstered by strong retail demand.
-    Beef exports to China were by far the largest of the year in April at 1,321 mt, up 82% from a year ago, valued at $11.4 million (up 128%), reflecting market access improvements implemented in late March that expanded the range of U.S. cattle, beef products and processing plants eligible for China. Through April, exports to China were up 34% from a year ago at 3,179 mt, valued at $25.4 million (up 41%). Although inventories of imported grass-fed beef are abundant in China, there is strong demand for U.S. grain-fed beef.
-    Exports to Mexico dipped sharply in April due to COVID-19 related restrictions on businesses and consumers and the slumping Mexican peso. Through April, exports to Mexico were 9% below last year’s pace at 70,048 mt, valued at $331.4 million (down 11%). But Mexico remained the largest volume destination for beef variety meat exports, with shipments up 11% from a year ago at 32,872 mt, valued at $81.7 million (up 3%).
-    Africa continues to emerge as growth region for U.S. beef variety meat. Through April, variety meat exports more than doubled from a year ago in both volume (10,091 mt, up 131%) and value ($7.6 million, up 122%), with South Africa, Gabon and Angola as the leading destinations.

Impressive gains for U.S. pork in Japan, China/Hong Kong
Similar to beef, U.S. pork exports to Japan are benefiting from a level competitive playing field in 2020, no longer saddled with a tariff disadvantage compared to Canadian and European pork. April exports to Japan totaled 39,232 mt, up 28% from a year ago, valued at $164.2 million (up 39%). Through April, exports reached 142,747 mt, up 16% from a year ago, with value up 20% to $592.5 million. With the increase in meals eaten at home and children being out of school, U.S. chilled pork has benefited from Japanese consumers’ preference for cooking pork at home. This situation has also stimulated demand for easy-to-cook processed pork products, which include U.S. sausages as well as products using U.S. ground seasoned pork as raw material. Japanese import data showed huge volumes from the U.S. in April, pushing January-April imports higher year-over-year in these categories: chilled pork (70,856 mt, +6%), ground seasoned pork (41,154 mt, +56%), frozen pork (20,557 mt, +27%) and sausages (3,174 mt, +14%).

April pork exports to China/Hong Kong set another new record at 116,928 mt, more than triple the year-ago volume and surpassing the previous high reached in December 2019. April export value was $268.5 million (up 284%). Through April, exports to China/Hong Kong continued on a record pace at 413,453 mt, up 223% from a year ago, while value increased 310% to $993 million. Boxed carcasses accounted for 41% of U.S. export volume for China, with bone-in hams accounting for 10%. So less labor-intensive products made up more than half of this year’s shipments to China, which is critical for processors during these challenging times. Through April, U.S. pork accounted for 19% of China’s 2020 imports, with the European Union remaining the dominant supplier with 59% market share.

Pork exports to Mexico slowed in April but January-April shipments remained 2% ahead of last year’s pace at 238,108 mt, with value climbing 16% to $413.6 million. The sharp increase in value underscores the importance of duty-free access to Mexico, as most exports in early 2019 were subject to a 20% retaliatory duty, which Mexico removed in late May of last year. Weekly export data indicate Mexico’s buying began to rebound in late May, despite continued exchange rate challenges and other economic headwinds.

Other January-April highlights for U.S. pork include:
-    With its domestic pork production heavily impacted by African swine fever, pork exports to Vietnam nearly tripled from a year ago to 5,638 mt (up 191%), with value up 160% to $12.4 million. Vietnam recently announced a reduction in its most-favored-nation tariff rates on imported pork, which will allow frozen U.S. pork cuts to enter at a lower rate (10% rather than 15%) beginning in July. Vietnam’s live hog prices continued to set records in May, averaging around $1.80 per pound, up 151% from a year ago.
-    Though slowing in April, pork exports to Central America were still 7% ahead of last year’s record pace at 31,367 mt, with value increasing 17% to $79.9 million. This was driven by solid growth in established markets such as Honduras and Guatemala, as well as a sharp increase in demand in Nicaragua.
-    While pork exports to South America have declined in 2020, Chile remains a bright spot with shipments up 35% from a year ago to 19,012 mt, valued at $53.6 million (up 43%). Exports to mainstay market Colombia have slowed this year, due in part to a drop in the Colombian peso. However, pork variety meat exports to Colombia increased 57% to 1,194 mt, valued at $2.5 million (up 31%).

Lamb muscle cut export volume continues to gain momentum
U.S. lamb exports have trended lower in 2020 due to declining in demand for variety meat, with January-April shipments down year-over-year in both volume (4,336 mt, down 20%) and value ($7 million, down 24%).

In volume terms, lamb muscle cut exports have gained traction this year, with shipments through April increasing 145% from a year ago to 2,031 mt. Muscle cut value, however, dropped 11% to $4.8 million. Volume growth has been driven by strong demand in Mexico, where exports increased 700% to 1,648 mt, valued at $2 million (up 123%). Muscle exports also increased year-over-year to Egypt and Kuwait.



BILL PROVIDING PPP FLEXIBILITY SIGNED INTO LAW

On Friday, President Trump signed into law legislation which would provide businesses with greater flexibility in how they use Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds and still have their loans forgiven. H.R. 7010, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Flexibility Act of 2020, passed the Senate Wednesday evening and overwhelmingly passed the House last week.

Specifically, the legislation would: expand the amount of time businesses have to spend the money from eight to 24 weeks; reduce the minimum that businesses need to spend from 75 percent to 60 percent if they want the full loan amount to be forgiven; extend the time period to rehire employees from June 30, 2020 to Dec. 31, 2020 and eliminate rehiring requirements; and clarify that employers in the PPP program can also benefit from the CARES Act payroll tax delay.



NCBA Applauds Introduction Of Emergency Grazing Legislation

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) today applauded the introduction of the bipartisan, bicameral PASTURE (Pandemic Authority Suitable To Utilize Reserve Easements) Act of 2020 by U.S. Representatives Roger Marshall (R - 1st Dist., Kansas) and Angie Craig (D - 2nd Dist., MN). Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Sens. John Thune (R-SD) and Tina Smith (D-MN).

“Yesterday’s introduction of the bipartisan, bicameral PASTURE Act is a welcome step toward providing grazing flexibility to livestock producers during the COVID-19 pandemic," said NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. "As farmers and ranchers are keeping and feeding livestock for longer periods of time, Congress must ensure that producers do not face a forage shortage. Emergency haying and grazing of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) acreage is a relied upon practice for livestock and forage management. The PASTURE Act gives USDA the ability to open CRP acreage for emergency haying and grazing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“On May 15, 2020, NCBA and 35 of its state affiliates sent a letter to Congress urging action on this issue. NCBA looks forward to continued work with both Republicans and Democrats to ensure that cattle producers receive much-needed flexibility during this unprecedented time."



World Dairy Expo 2020 Cancelled

For the first time in its 53-year history, World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin has been cancelled. The event's Executive Committee reached this difficult decision based on the public health orders and restrictions related to COVID-19, in place and issued by Public Health Madison & Dane County. World Dairy Expo 2020 was set to take place at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wisconsin, September 29 through October 3, 2020. The annual event welcomed more than 62,000 attendees from nearly 100 countries in 2019.

The Alliant Energy Center, home to World Dairy Expo, is a county-owned facility that falls under the jurisdiction of Emergency Order #3 and Forward Dane, the phased reopening plan for Dane County. Public health officials predict Dane County may be in the third phase of the plan when World Dairy Expo is set to occur. This phase includes a limit of 250 people at outdoor events, eliminating any possibility that World Dairy Expo, as people know it today, can take place.

Serving as the meeting place of the global dairy industry, World Dairy Expo brings together the latest in dairy innovation and the best cattle in North America. Crowds of more than 62,000 people, from nearly 100 countries, will return to Madison, Wis. for the 54th event, September 28 through October 2, 2021.



Farmfest and Dakotafest Canceled for 2020

IDEAg Group LLC., owned by American Farm Bureau Federation, producers of Minnesota Farmfest and Dakotafest, has canceled both farm shows for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We announce this decision with great disappointment but the well-being of our exhibitors, attendees, staff, volunteers and their families is paramount,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “We understand the impact this has on the ag community, but simply put, it is the right decision to make in these uncertain times.”

Farmfest, scheduled for Aug. 4-6 in Redwood County, Minnesota, has served farmers and the agriculture community for 38 years. Dakotafest, scheduled for Aug. 18-20 in Mitchell, South Dakota, was set to celebrate its 25th anniversary.

IDEAg management confirms that aspects of each show will be made available to attendees virtually this year, including the Farmfest Political Forums.

“The Farmfest Political Forums are a highly anticipated part of our annual event, especially for the state’s ag industry and in this important election year,” said Melissa Sanders Carroll, executive director, IDEAg. “Providing people a virtual opportunity to learn about and participate in the issues that directly impact their farms, lives and families is essential to us.”

Next year’s show dates have been set. Farmfest will be Aug. 3-5, 2021, and Dakotafest is slated for Aug. 17-19, 2021. Visit Farmfest.com and Dakotafest.com for more information about 2020 virtual event activities as well as information about the 2021 shows.