Monday December 14 Ag News

 Nebraska Farm Service Agency Reminds Livestock Producers of Drought Disaster Assistance Program for Forage Losses

Nebraska U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Executive Director Nancy Johner reminds livestock producers who have suffered grazing losses due to drought in 2020 of the availability of the Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP). The deadline to apply for LFP for 2020 losses is Feb. 1, 2021.

“Prolonged drought conditions during the grazing season triggered this livestock disaster assistance program in several areas of the state,” said Johner. “I encourage all affected livestock producers to call their county FSA office to schedule an appointment to apply for the program.”

For the 2020 LFP program year, 27 counties in Nebraska have met drought ratings that trigger eligibility for livestock disaster assistance. For losses due to drought, qualifying drought ratings are determined using the U.S. Drought Monitor. The program is available in these counties: Banner, Box Butte, Burt, Cheyenne, Colfax, Cuming, Dawes, Deuel, Dodge, Douglas, Dundy, Garden, Hitchcock, Keith, Kimball, Madison, Morrill, Perkins, Pierce, Platte, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan, Sioux, Stanton, Thurston, Washington and Wayne.

LFP provides compensation to eligible livestock producers who suffered grazing losses for covered livestock due to drought on privately-owned land, leased land where the producer has a risk in the grazing or fire on federally managed land.

Eligible livestock includes alpacas, beef cattle, buffalo, beefalo, dairy cattle, deer, elk, emus, equine, goats, llamas, poultry, reindeer, sheep or swine that have been or would have been grazing the eligible grazing land or pastureland during the normal grazing period. Several factors are considered regarding producer eligibility, including that a producer must have risk in the eligible livestock and risk in the eligible grazing lands.

Livestock producers are encouraged to contact FSA with questions regarding specific program eligibility requirements. Livestock producers must complete the LFP application and provide required supporting documentation before program benefits can be determined and issued.



Fall Grain Storage Tips
Amy Timmerman – NE Extension Educator

As the temperature drops, don’t forget to check on your stored grain. Although most of the Nebraska grain harvest was sufficiently dry this year, we still need to watch grain storage temperatures and conditions. See the following list of tips to think about as we move into the cold season.

Cool Stored Grain
The key to good long-term storage is getting grain cool enough and maintaining that temperature as long as possible; this reduces moisture migration and condensation near the top of the bin. Cooling grain down as temperatures drop in the fall and early winter helps to accomplish this. Keeping grain temps cool also helps to reduce pest issues; temperatures below 60°F reduce insect reproduction and below 50°F cause insect dormancy. Extended exposure to temps below 30°F can kill insects. Cool grain temperatures reduce mold growth and grain deterioration as well. Use fans to cool grain down to 20-30°F to store over winter. As long as grain is not stored at temps lower than 20°F, there is rarely need to run fans to ‘warm’ grain in the spring.

Grain temperature is the key to long-term storage; allowable storage time doubles (approximately) with every 10°F reduction in grain temperature. Do remember however, that allowable storage time is cumulative. For example: if 20% moisture corn were stored for 25 days at 50°F, ½ of the storage life has been used. If the corn is cooled to 40°F, the allowable storage time at 40°F is only 45 days.

Fall Grain Storage Tips
• Cover bin aeration fans when not in use. Fans essentially go through the ‘chimney effect’ where wind can move wet or warm air into the fan and it travels upwards, affecting the grain inside. This is especially important for fans placed on the northwest side of bins; the fix can be as simple as a tarp and strap. When covered, be sure to put a safety lock out on the breaker box or switch, to avoid turning fans on when covered.
• Provide an inlet for air near the roof eave and outlet exhaust near the roof peak to allow warm air to exit the bin (much like the principles of an attic). Several vents at the same elevation can still allow heat to remain at the top of the bin without exhaust at the peak or roof exhaust fans.
• Grain temperature should be measured at several places along the walls (especially the south wall) of the bin, near the top surface, and within the grain. Temperature sensors are very useful for this; however, multiple readings are necessary to get an accurate picture of overall temperature.



REMOVING NET WRAP AND TWINE
– Jerry Volesky, NE Extension

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

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

There is the potential for twine to accumulate in the rumen of cattle and cause obstruction.  Research at North Dakota State University has confirmed this risk and provided further information on what happens to twine when cattle eat it.

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

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

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

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



5th Annual NeFB Grower’s Gala Goes Virtual

The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation held its fifth annual Grower’s Gala on Dec. 7, as a virtual event. The event celebrated the Foundation’s mission to promote an understanding of the vital importance of agriculture in the lives of all Nebraskans. The virtual event included program highlights, testimonials, and a tribute to retiring President Steve Nelson.

“The year 2020 has been full of pivotal moments. The Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation adapted quickly to the new methods of teaching and learning, recognizing that a strong statewide understanding of agriculture is more important than ever before,” said Megahn Schafer, executive director.

The Foundation moved its live auction to an online auction with the support of BigIron Auctions. More than 50 items were auctioned, including dinner with the newly elected president of Nebraska Farm Bureau, seed corn, a drone, barn security camera, remote control Ford cooler, gun concealment bench, binoculars, tools, clocks, and gift baskets.

“We can’t THANK BigIron Auctions enough for hosting our auction at no cost. Thanks to the BigIron Gives platform, our members got a professional online auction experience, and 100% of the sales prices come to the Foundation to help fulfill our mission,” said Schafer.

Lancaster County Farm Bureau sponsored the annual “deck of cards” raffle, and Nick Haack of Kearney/Franklin County Farm Bureau was the lucky winner of a Browning X-Bolt Medallion .270 Caliber Rifle and Leupold scope.

Thanks to the generosity of donor Charles W. Herbster of Falls City, Neb., a matching gift doubled the first $25,000 raised at the Grower’s Gala. Totals for the event topped $58,000 to support the Foundation’s programs including Nebraska Agriculture in the Classroom, the Ag Pen Pal program, scholarships and awards, and consumer engagement efforts.

“Mr. Herbster’s matching gift has been transformational for our fundraising at this event for three years in a row. Our team is honored to put his gifts to good use every day, and we are happy to recognize his outstanding generosity,” said Foundation Board Member Rob Robertson.

The Foundation also honored retiring President Steve Nelson for his service to the Foundation. Lisa Lunz of Dixon County also retired from the Board of Directors and as the chair of the Promotion and Education Committee (P&E). Also retiring from the P&E Committee is Sarah Bomark of Lincoln County.

“The Foundation benefits from the dedicated efforts of outstanding volunteers, and I am so grateful for the contributions of Steve, Paula, and Sarah,” said Schafer.

Special thanks to BigIron Auctions for facilitating the online auction, and the following live auction and raffle donors: County Farm Bureaus: Buffalo, Douglas, Hall, Kearney/Franklin, Lancaster, Rock, and Seward; Nebraska Farm Bureau member benefit partners: Avis/Budget, CASE IH, Certified Piedmontese, Choice Hotels, Farm Bureau Bank, Ford, Grainger, IHG Hotels, John Deere, Nebraska Star Beef, OfficeDepot/OfficeMax, Tripbeat, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Yamaha, and Younes Hotels; additional supporters: Aurora Cooperative, Bakers Candies, Center Creek Gunsmithing, Craft Axe Throwing, Dekalb, Escape Room Lincoln, Glenda Mach, Harbor Freight Tools, Hosick Family, Lied Lodge at Arbor Day Farm, Lincoln Saltdogs, McClinton Family, Mark & Judi McHargue, Miletta Vista, Oriental Trading, Orscheln's Farm and Home, Paula Peterson, Rick Ronhovde, Schafer Family, Scheels, Sothern Hospitality Ventures, Thompson Family, UNL Athletic Department, Uppa Crik Tap Room, and WESTCO.



Reinke's ESAC Wins Two National Awards

ESAC, Reinke Manufacturing's electronic swing arm corner technology, has won both an AE50 award from the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) and the Irrigation Association New Product People's Choice Award for agriculture irrigation. A global leader in irrigation systems and technology, Reinke introduced ESAC to growers in the U.S. and Canada earlier this year.

“We're very excited to be recognized by these organizations, especially since they represent both engineers and growers,” said Chris Roth, Reinke President. “Our team has worked for some time perfecting ESAC's ability to improve water uniformity on corners and help producers grow more with less. These awards are a signal that we've achieved those goals, by providing the most advanced swing arm corner in the irrigation market.”

The AE50 Awards are the only one of their kind, celebrating product innovations in the area of agriculture, food, and biological systems. Only 50 products are recognized each year; those ranked highest in innovation, significant engineering advancement and impact on the markets they serve.

The Irrigation Association's New Product Awards are determined during the annual Irrigation Show and Education Week. A total of 31 new products and technologies were entered in five categories, evaluated on innovation, design quality, increased water/resource-use efficiency, ease of use and product life expectancy.

ESAC will provide growers with highly efficient and uniform water application, increasing yields under their Swing Arm Corners. In field tests, ESAC showed major improvements for irregular-shaped fields and corner applications on rectangular and square fields. Based on GPS positioning, ESAC’s electronic 6 or 12 zones control the precision application of water or chemical applications to individual field specifications. ESAC is available on all swing arm models.




Corn Yield Contest Reflects Resilience of Corn and Farmers Who Grow It

U.S. farmers not only planted and harvested a large crop successfully in 2020, but they also rolled out some impressive yields in the National Corn Growers Association’s National Corn Yield Contest despite weather challenges, wildfires, and a pandemic. Don Stall, Charlotte, Michigan, produced the highest yield in the contest with a yield of 476.9052 bushels per acre, reflecting farmers' resilience and the value of modern seed varieties, advanced production techniques and innovative growing practices.

The National Corn Yield Contest is now in its 56th year and remains NCGA’s most popular program for members.

“This contest brings farmers together to create, innovate and explore ways to optimize the nation’s largest and arguably most important crop,” said Debbie Borg, chair of NCGA’s Member and Consumer Engagement Action Team. “At both the state and national levels, contest winners find new ways to excel while using a variety of techniques. Ultimately, the invention and improvement by farmers and input providers enable U.S. farmers to continue to meet the future demand for critical food, feed, fuel and fiber.”

The 27 national winners in 9 production categories had verified yields averaging more than 345.9948 bushels per acre, compared to the projected national average of 175 bushels per acre nationwide. While there is no overall contest winner, yields from first, second and third place farmers overall production categories topped out at 274.2037 bushels per acre.

For more than half a century, NCGA’s National Corn Yield Contest has provided corn growers with the opportunity to compete with their colleagues to grow the most corn per acre, helping feed and fuel the world. This has given participants not only the recognition they deserved but the opportunity to learn from their peers.

Winners receive national recognition in publications such as the NCYC Corn Yield Guide, as well as trips or other awards from participating sponsoring seed, chemical and crop protection companies. Winners are traditionally honored in March during Commodity Classic. With the convention moving to a virtual format in 2021, NCGA is working with sponsors to find an alternative means to recognize the accomplishments of yield contest winners.

Winners by state (Name, town, brand & hybrid, yield)
Nebraska
A: Conventional Non-Irrigated
1 Bradley Ward Zierott, Murdock, Wyffels Hybrids W7888RIB, 293.9663
2 Joni Jaeger, Winside, DEKALB DKC63-57RIB, 288.3472
3 Adam Heimes, Saint Helena, DEKALB DKC63-91RIB, 279.6499

C: No-Till Non-Irrigated
1 Mike Scholting, Louisville, Channel 213-19VT2PRIB, 307.9637
2 Marvin and Glenn Wiles, Plattsmouth, DEKALB DKC70-27RIB, 294.2494
3 Jonathan Bodlak, Wakefield, Hoegemeyer Hybrids, 288.4192

E: Strip, Min, Mulch, Ridge-Till Non-Irrigated
1 Paul Tighe, Homer, DEKALB DKC65-95RIB, 277.4833
2 Ryan Lee Aspegren, York, Pioneer P1751AM, 265.1471
3 Stephen D. Miller, Tecumseh, Pioneer P2042AML, 258.2007

G: No-Till Irrigated
1 Blake E Johnson, Holdrege, Pioneer P1138AML, 322.8746
2 Grady Johnson, Holdrege, Pioneer P1138AML 317.3537
3 Brenton J Hopkins, Rogers, DEKALB DKC63-91RIB, 305.1931

H: Strip, Min, Mulch, Ridge-Till Irrigated
1 John Panowicz, Cairo, Pioneer P1828AM, 330.8272
2 Scott J Ford, Bertrand, Pioneer P1572AM, 323.8899
3 Randy Wadas, North Loup, Pioneer, P1185AM, 314.9066

I: Conventional Irrigated
1 Ashton Peterson, Bertrand, Pioneer P1563AML, 324.5989
2 Rocky Peterson, Bertrand, Pioneer P1185AM, 319.6860
3 Heath Schake, Kearney, Pioneer P1563AM, 316.2326

Iowa
B: Conventional Non-Irrigated
1 Chris Lindner, Keokuk, Beck's Hybrids 6622AM, 305.8413
2 Ralph Trumm, Cascade, LG Seeds Lg5525VT2RIB, 301.9615
3 George E Beardmore, Dorchester, Pioneer P1366AM, 300.3938

D: No-Till Non-Irrigated
1 Aaron Adam, Richland, Pioneer P1563AM, 312.7265
2 Michael Delaney, Dubuque, Pioneer P1185AM, 303.0375
3 Todd Williams, Oakland, Pioneer P1366AM,292.1130

F: Strip, Min, Mulch, Ridge-Till Non-Irrigated
1 Matt Biermann, Glenwood, Pioneer P1563AM, 301.0391
2 Craig Becker, Atlantic, Pioneer P1185AM, 289.9834
3 Donald Waters, Cumberland, DEKALB DKC59-82RIB, 289.1600

G: No-Till Irrigated
1 Roy Folkerts, Inwood, Pioneer P1185Q, 285.0715
* Mark Schleisman, Lake City, Pioneer P1108Q, 284.7140
2 Colby Winter, Lake City, Pioneer P1366Q, 280.6242
3 Todd Folkerts, Inwood, Pioneer P1185Q, 280.5726

I: Conventional Irrigated
1 Kim Dummermuth, Elgin, Pioneer P1185AM, 292.9058
2 Mark Schleisman, Lake City, AgriGold A6572 STXRIB, 286.0354
3 Kent Beebe, Missouri Valley, Wyffels Hybrids W8266RIB, 281.3231
*Same grower has the high yield across multiple classes; same grower can only win one class.

Please visit National Corn Growers Association NCYC for the complete list of 2020 national and state winners, including the list of all 2020 NCYC entrants... https://ncga.com/get-involved/national-corn-yield-contest.



Prep Harvest Equipment for Winter Storage

With harvest mostly finished, producers should make sure their equipment is ready for winter months.

Harvest 2020 was different for many Iowa farmers due to the derecho. An unusual harvest caused more wear on equipment due to downed corn and rough ground. This extra wear makes cleaning equipment this winter and identifying needed maintenance all the more important.

Cleaning and inspecting equipment in preparation for future seasons is important to keep equipment in the best shape possible. To get a combine ready for winter storage, be sure to remove all shields and covers, blow the machine off and provide a thorough power washing. Remove any extra displays and store for winter.

After the derecho, fields were left in a different shape than years past, requiring a lot more out of equipment.

“A lot of people are dealing with downed corn and there is going to be a lot more mud and dirt packed up underneath the heads,” said Levi Powell, harvest expert with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

Extra dirt piles up and can be difficult to get clean. Loosening the gathering chains in the combine head provides more access for cleaning.

Walk around and check for any major repairs that need to be made, being sure to make a list before putting the machine away. When getting the combine out before the next season, make a list of what needs to be worked on.

“A lot of dealerships offer programs where you pay a fee, and when you are done combining, you can take it there and they blow if off, wash it and store it all winter for you,” said Powell.

There are multiple options available for winter storage.

Cleaning equipment is not only great for preserving the value of equipment, but also makes equipment less attractive to rodents in the winter.



New Tool Helps Farmers and Ranchers Develop Custom Biosecurity Plan for Disease Prevention

In support of cattle producers across the country dedicated to preventing disease, improving animal welfare and reducing production losses, the Beef Checkoff-funded Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program developed a Daily Biosecurity Plan for Disease Prevention template. The template, which helps cattle producers implement daily biosecurity measures on their operations, is available digitally as a PDF or can be printed for handwritten plans.

The template was specifically designed to be customizable, giving producers flexibility in determining management practices that work best for their cattle operation and covers everything from animal movement to worker training. The goal of this introductory and stepwise program is to provide beef farmers and ranchers across the country with the information needed to implement biosecurity plans. In addition to providing basic information, the tool emphasizes why biosecurity is vital on cattle operations and provides an opportunity for producers to have conversations with their herd veterinarians, extension agents, and state BQA coordinators about biosecurity preparedness.

“Biosecurity is a top priority for the beef industry,” said Kim Brackett, an Idaho cattle producer and chair of the BQA Advisory Group. “This Beef Checkoff-funded tool allows beef farmers and ranchers to develop their own biosecurity plans unique to their operations. Whether a cow-calf operation in California, a backgrounder in Mississippi or a feedyard in Kansas, being proactive and developing a written plan ahead of a crisis allows producers to implement and become familiar with biosecurity precautions. Even more importantly, producers will be prepared if a biosecurity threat were to happen.”

The Daily Biosecurity Plan for Disease Prevention template was created in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture and its Secure Beef Supply plan. By intersecting these resources, producers that already have biosecurity steps in place for day-to-day operations are able to easily move to an enhanced biosecurity plan to prepare for a potential foreign animal disease outbreak

For more information about BQA and the BQA Daily Biosecurity Plan, visit BQA.org.



Cattle Auction Receipts
Josh Maples, Extension Economist, Dept of Ag Econ, Mississippi State University

This year has shown some pretty large shifts from normal for every sector of the cattle industry. The number of feeder and stocker cattle auction receipts are no exception. The USDA-AMS weekly estimates of feeder and stocker cattle sold at auction in 2020 reflect some of the dynamics and challenges faced by producers.

The disruptions during the spring are immediately evident. The number of auction receipts during March-April 2020 was 33 percent (or 661k head) lower than during the same months of 2019. Prices were very low during this period and there were gathering/travel restrictions in most places, and many producers responded by holding cattle longer. The expected rebound came during May-July when auction receipts were about 18 percent (or 306k head) higher than during those months in 2019. August 2020 was much stronger than August 2019, but this was driven in part by the low prices during August 2019 due to the meat packing plant fire in KS. That disruption likely led to a similar holding strategy for cattle that came to market in later months.

Fall of 2020 has also seen plenty of challenges. Drought issues and higher grain prices pressured feeder cattle markets lower during October and auction receipts dipped again as some producers with available feedstuffs attempted to wait out a stronger market. We may see some larger late runs since the market has rebounded. This may be especially true in the Southeast where producers may have generally had better pasture conditions compared to other regions.

Year-to-date, 2020 auction receipts are down 4.3 percent compared to 2019. Of course, this dataset alone does not tell the whole story - not all cattle are sold in auctions and some are sold multiple times. However, the year-over-year comparisons are interesting. Underpinning all of this is the expectation that the calf crop has declined slightly since the peak in 2018. USDA estimates the national calf crop has declined a little less than one percent each of the past two years. Lower placements into feedlots also lend credence to the thought of lower calf crop totals on an annual basis. Looking ahead, the January 2021 Cattle inventory report will be especially interesting given the dynamics of 2020 and the production expectations for 2021.



FDA Approves First-of-its-Kind Intentional Genomic Alteration in Line of Domestic Pigs for Both Human Food, Potential Therapeutic Uses

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a first-of-its-kind intentional genomic alteration (IGA) in a line of domestic pigs, referred to as GalSafe pigs, which may be used for food or human therapeutics. This is the first IGA in an animal that the FDA has approved for both human food consumption and as a source for potential therapeutic uses. The IGA in GalSafe pigs is intended to eliminate alpha-gal sugar on the surface of the pigs’ cells. People with Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) may have mild to severe allergic reactions to alpha-gal sugar found in red meat (e.g., beef, pork, and lamb).

“Today’s first ever approval of an animal biotechnology product for both food and as a potential source for biomedical use represents a tremendous milestone for scientific innovation,” said FDA Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn, M.D. “As part of our public health mission, the FDA strongly supports advancing innovative animal biotechnology products that are safe for animals, safe for people, and achieve their intended results. Today’s action underscores the success of the FDA in modernizing our scientific processes to optimize a risk-based approach that advances cutting-edge innovations in which consumers can have confidence.”

GalSafe pigs may potentially provide a source of porcine-based materials to produce human medical products that are free of detectable alpha-gal sugar. For example, GalSafe pigs could potentially be used as a source of medical products, such as the blood-thinning drug heparin, free of detectable alpha-gal sugar. Tissues and organs from GalSafe pigs could potentially address the issue of immune rejection in patients receiving xenotransplants, as alpha-gal sugar is believed to be a cause of rejection in patients.

As part of its review, the FDA evaluated the safety of the IGA for the animals and people eating meat from them, as well as the product developer’s intention to market the IGA for its ability to eliminate alpha-gal sugar on pigs’ cells. The FDA  determined that food from GalSafe pigs is safe for the general population to eat. The FDA’s review also focused on ensuring the effectiveness of the IGA through the evaluation of data demonstrating that there is no detectable level of alpha-gal sugar across multiple generations of GalSafe pigs.

“The FDA is committed to continuing its close work with developers to facilitate safe advancements of animal biotechnology. Our Veterinary Innovation Program focuses on providing greater certainty in the regulatory process, encouraging development and research of innovative public health products, as well as supporting an efficient and predictable pathway to the approval of IGAs in animals,” said Steven M. Solomon, D.V.M., M.P.H., director of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine. “The developer of GalSafe pigs participated in this program, proving the impact of this important FDA initiative. We look forward to continued work with other developers to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of additional innovative animal biotechnology products.”

As part of its review, the FDA analyzed the potential impact that the approval of the IGA in GalSafe pigs would have on the U.S. environment and determined it is no greater than from conventional pigs. The conditions under which GalSafe pigs will be kept are far more stringent than those for conventionally farmed pigs. Additionally, no animal safety concerns were noted for GalSafe pigs beyond those that would be expected in well-managed, commercial swine operations.

The FDA also assessed the risk of the IGA to promote the emergence or selection of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria of human health concern in or on GalSafe pigs. The FDA concluded that the microbial food safety risk is low and is mitigated by the low number of GalSafe pigs entering the food supply and the ongoing surveillance for antimicrobial resistance, among other factors.

Because the product developer’s application to the FDA did not include data regarding elimination or prevention of food allergies, the FDA’s review process did not evaluate food safety specific to those with AGS, a recently identified type of food allergy to red meat and other products derived from mammals. In the U.S., the condition most often begins when a Lone Star tick bites someone and transmits alpha-gal sugar into the person's body. In some people, this triggers an immune system reaction that later produces mild to severe allergic reactions to alpha-gal sugar found in red meat.

It’s important to note that these pigs have not been evaluated for use as xenotransplantation products for transplantation or implantation into human subjects. Developers of any such human medical products must first submit an application to, and obtain approval from, the FDA before these products can be used in human medicine.

The product developer indicated that it initially intends to sell meat from GalSafe pigs by mail order, rather than in supermarkets.

The FDA granted approval of the IGA in GalSafe pigs to Revivicor Inc.



CHS Foundation Partners with National FFA Organization to Support Teachers and Future Ag Leaders

The CHS Foundation, funded by charitable gifts from CHS Inc., announced today they will commit more than $4 million over the next three years as part of their ongoing support of FFA, teachers and agricultural education.

The multi-year commitment will include annual funding for programs the CHS Foundation has had a history of supporting. These include the Teach Ag Campaign, which focuses on ag teacher retention and recruitment; educating students on the value of the cooperative system through My Local Cooperative curriculum; participation in proficiency awards and National FFA Convention; and support of 17 state FFA associations. New focus areas for the CHS Foundation include dedicated funding for students’ supervised agricultural experiences (SAEs) and state officer leadership programs.

“This year, more than ever, agricultural educators across the country have shown how to be innovative and creative,” said Molly Ball, president of the National FFA Foundation and chief marketing officer of the National FFA Organization. “We are excited to see the CHS Foundation recognizes the key role our educators play in creating the next generation of leaders. This generous donation will help us continue to fund the programs that helps us inspire our FFA advisors and teachers, as well as our students.”

“By supporting FFA, we are living out our purpose and creating connections with the next generation that will empower agriculture far into the future,” said Nanci Lilja, president, CHS Foundation. “We are continuously impressed by the caliber of agricultural educators and students who are involved with FFA at all levels and look forward to sharing the impacts of this continued partnership across the agriculture industry and cooperative community.”

CHS Foundation has been a generous partner with the National FFA Organization for more than 40 years.



USDA Chief Economist Dr. Robert Johansson to Depart

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced that U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Chief Economist, Robert Johansson, will be leaving USDA to become Associate Director of Economics and Policy Analysis for the American Sugar Alliance at the end of January. Additionally, the Secretary announced Dr. Seth Meyer will return to USDA to be the new Chief Economist.
 
“There is no doubt that I as well as the whole USDA family will miss Rob’s experience, preparedness, and direct economic analyses,” said Secretary Perdue. “During his tenure as Chief Economist, Rob has been an upstanding public servant. Rob helped set up and serve as Acting Deputy Undersecretary for the Farm Production and Conservation mission area, early in this Administration. Rob’s leadership and economic support over the past two years with trade disruptions and COVID-19 relief has helped us make evidenced-based decisions when designing programs to assist American farmers and ranchers during their time of need. We are excited to bring back Dr. Seth Meyer and know that he will do a tremendous job serving the people of American agriculture.”
 
“It has been a real honor to have spent more than two decades in public service, working for the Peace Corps, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Office of Management and Budget, the Congressional Budget Office, and the Council of Economic Advisers. My 16+ years with USDA has been most rewarding and I’ll miss the daily interaction with the fantastic team at OCE as well as the larger USDA family. I look forward to continue supporting America’s farmers in my new role with the American Sugar Alliance,” said Chief Economist Johansson.
 
“This is a challenging time for the food and agricultural sector. I’m quite honored to be asked to rejoin USDA as Chief Economist. I look forward to serving the American public and USDA’s many stakeholders and constituencies,” said Dr. Seth Meyer.



7 Case IH Innovations Earn 2021 ASABE AE50 Award

The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) will present seven AE50 awards to Case IH in 2021 for outstanding agricultural innovations. The recognitions spotlight the success of the Case IH Customer Driven Product Design process and the company’s full line of agronomic solutions. The award-winning innovations include:
    AFS Connect™ Steiger® series tractor
    LB436 HD large square baler
    Case IH fertilizer applicators and air carts with 24-row air pack system
    MultiControl Armrest
    Axial-Flow® 250 series combines with sieve pressure visualization
    Category 3/4n 3-point hitch quick coupler
    Fast Riser 6100 front-fold planter (Brazil)

“We’re driven to help producers be more productive and profitable, and we’re proud to be recognized for our commitment to innovation,” said Scott Harris, Case IH vice president, North America. “Farmers design, engineer and build Case IH equipment and technology. Collaboration with our customers through our Customer Driven Product Design process is key to developing the most powerful, productive and reliable equipment that meets the needs of today’s farmers.”

ASABE annually distinguishes the 50 most significant product innovations in engineering and technology for agricultural, food and biological systems. The honor recognizes products that save producers time and reduce cost and labor, all while improving user safety. The awards will be presented at the virtual ASABE Agricultural Equipment Technology Conference (AETC) in February 2021.

AFS Connect Steiger series tractor
The AFS Connect Steiger series tractor delivers a high-tech, high-powered package that gives producers the freedom to adjust, manage, monitor and transfer data the way they want. The redesigned cab features an all-new armrest with ergonomic controls, automotive-grade design elements and a 12-inch AFS (Advanced Farming Systems) Pro 1200 display that is configurable to fit each operator’s needs. Built-in 4G connectivity with remote display viewing and service allow faster and more efficient in-field support.

LB436 HD large square baler
The LB436 HD large square baler helps producers achieve maximum bale density and high-quality bales. It features a bale chamber that is 16% longer and provides up to 55% more plunger force than other Case IH models. A robust compression system and fully automatic bale density control system help achieve higher, more-consistent densities and bale weights — even in changing field conditions. An exclusive two-speed gearbox provides easy start-up and smooth power flow, maximizing power to deliver 48 strokes per minute.

Axial-Flow 250 series combines with sieve pressure visualization
Sieve pressure visualization, available with Axial-Flow 250 series combines, helps maximize cleaning system performance by equipping the operator with feedback needed to save grain and make the correct adjustments.

Case IH fertilizer applicators and air carts with 24-row air pack system
The 24-row air pack system is designed to accurately deliver dry fertilizer products from a
Case IH Precision Air™ 5 series air cart to a 60-foot Nutri-Placer® 940 or Nutri-Tiller® 955 fertilizer applicator. With a series of unique three-way splitters, this system can deliver product to 24 individual row units on 30-inch row spacing with precision and consistency. With growing emphasis on environmental impact, this system not only helps producers cover more acres efficiently but also minimizes fertilizer runoff by properly banding fertilizer in the root zone.

MultiControl Armrest
Through customer focus groups and innovative technologies such as human positioning software, virtual reality simulators and 3D printing, Case IH developed the new MultiControl Armrest to upgrade its ergonomic rating by 58%. Available on Steiger and Magnum™ series tractors, this innovation delivers the most comfortable armrest to the widest range of Case IH customers and puts the most frequently used functions within reach for easy operation.

Category 3/4n 3-point hitch quick coupler
The Case IH 3-point hitch quick coupler carries the load of a 2-point or 3-point mounted implement while reducing the amount of material required and increasing durability. The design is driven by real-world customer application loading conditions, maximizing the strength and life of the quick coupler.

Fast Riser 6100 front-fold planter
Available in Brazil, the Fast Riser 6100 front-fold planter with up to 61 rows at 45-centimeter spacing delivers a productive experience for planting corn, soybean and cotton crops. Equipped with a five-section hydraulic wing downforce system and agronomically designed row unit, this planter is designed to help increase yield potential and cover more acres.  



New Holland Agriculture earns two ASABE AE50 Awards for 2021

The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) has named two of New Holland Agriculture’s innovations as winners of 2021 AE50 awards: the BigBaler 340 High Density large square baler, and the CH and TX Crossover Harvesting™ combine harvester with TripleClean™ cleaning system.
 
Carlo Lambro, Brand President New Holland Agriculture, stated: “We are very proud of receiving once again this important recognition of New Holland’s dedication to helping farmers around the world work efficiently and productively. The two awarded products are a perfect demonstration of how our legacy of innovation translates into benefits for our customers. The BigBaler High Density has won numerous awards around the world for its unique features, and the recently launched CH and TX Crossover Harvesting are setting a new benchmark in capacity for mid-range combines.”
 
The BigBaler 340 High Density large square baler delivers all-out efficiency by producing bales of up to 22% higher density than conventional large square balers. It introduces two unique features, the latest in New Holland’s long string of industry-firsts in baling. The exclusive SmartShift™ two speed gearbox, winner of the Silver Medal at the Agritechnica Innovation Award 2019, is a unique driveline concept that significantly increases productivity, enhances operator comfort, and improves tractor driveline protection. The patented Loop MasterTM knotting technology delivers up to 26% improved twine tensile strength and is the first commercialized double knotter in the world that prevents plastic pollution.  The baler also features a unique hydraulic axle suspension system yields improved ground following and ensures excellent weight distribution across all four wheels. The hydraulic suspension allows the operator to raise the baler to new heights giving operators easy access to components on the bottom side of the baler.
 
With these new and unique features, combined with the high capacity five bar MaxiSweep™ pickup, the baler delivers outstanding profitability to the producer. The BigBaler High Density was also crowned Machine of the Year 2020 in the Forage Harvesting category by a jury panel of journalists representing the leading European agricultural publications.
 
The New Holland Crossover Harvesting™ system combines conventional drum threshing and Twin Rotor™ separation technology, with the TripleClean™ cleaning shoe to deliver enhanced capacity for midrange combines. This system significantly increases combine capacity, within the dimensions and engine power range of midrange combines, in classes 4 to 7. This Crossover Harvesting system ensures that a midrange combine delivers the capacity of a traditional rotary machine combined with the outstanding straw quality associated with a pure conventional system. The system is a perfect match to handle efficiently all different crops, including but not limited to soy beans, corn and rice in Latin America to cereal crops, rapeseed and corn in Europe.
 
The AE50 awards program emphasizes the role of new products and systems in bringing advanced technology to the marketplace. These engineering developments help farmers increase efficiency, enhance quality, improve safety, and increase profits. Each year, 50 winners are selected by ASABE.
 
The New Holland 2021 awards will be presented during ASABE's Agricultural Equipment Technology Conference, to be held virtually in February 2021. They will also be featured in a special issue of ASABE’s magazine Resource: Engineering & Technology for a Sustainable World, a magazine geared to agricultural, biological and food system engineers worldwide. The magazine is read by thousands involved in the agricultural, food and biological industries. Read more at www.asabe.org/Resource.
 
ASABE is an international scientific and educational organization dedicated to the advancement of engineering applicable to agricultural, food, and biological systems. Further information on the Society can be obtained by visiting www.asabe.org/.