Friday February 5 Ag News

Over 500 students attend district livestock judging contest at Northeast Community College

The Chuck M. Pohlman Agriculture Complex at Northeast Community College in Norfolk was the site of the District II, III, and IV FFA District Livestock Judging Contest recently. Five-hundred-twenty contestants from 46 schools participated in the event held over three-days this year.

Michael Roeber, agriculture/livestock judging instructor at Northeast, said several changes were made this year due to the pandemic.

“In order to limit numbers in the facility at a given time, each of the three districts participated on separate days, with District 2 competing on Thur., Jan. 28, District 3 on Tue., Feb. 2, and District 4 on Thur., Feb. 4.  The District 4 contest also had to deal with late starts by many schools due to the snow and wind taking place,” he said. “Additional pandemic protocols included each school being assigned a time to begin their competition, with team members from a school being kept together in their own group away from contestants from other schools.”

Teams could have up to eight members, with the top four scores counted. Roeber said the top 25% in each division in each district qualify for the State Livestock Evaluation contest, which will be held virtually on April 1st, with the state results being announced the following week during the virtual Nebraska State FFA Convention.

There were approximately 25 faculty members, staff and students from Northeast Community College who assisted in conducting the contest.

Individual and team results include:
District 2 Seniors
Individual: 1st - R.J. Bayer, Howells-Dodge; 2nd - Colby Bolton, Cross County.
Team: 1st - Columbus Lakeview (Zach Anderson, Makiaya De La Cruz, Alex Hinze, Abigail Lutjelusche, Ella Meyer, Eli Osten, Carly Schaad, and Emily Schaad. 2nd - Howells-Dodge (Justin Bayer, R.J. Bayer, Levi Belina, Regan Burenheide, Gavin Nelson, Blake Sindelar, and Brittin Sindelar).

District 2 Juniors
Individual: 1st - Tara Hambleton, Leigh; 2nd - Barrett Walahoski, Raymond Central.
Team: 1st - 1st Columbus Lakeview (Blake Anderson, Emma Anderson, Madisen Greisen, Adyson Groteluschen, MaKenna Lutjelusche, Niels Schmidt, Kyle Olmer, and Gunnar Wolfe).
2nd - Leigh-Clarkson (Dylan Brabec, James Grotelueschen, Taya Hambleton, Dylan Higby, Jacob Martensen, Jordan Noonan, and Dalton Zulkoski).

District 3 Seniors
Individual: 1st - Kendra Loseke, Blair; 2nd - Logan Buhrman, Wisner-Pilger.
Team: 1st - Blair (Trinity Back, Callie Landauer, Kendra Loseke, Dalton Nielsen, Baydun Read, Tyler Thompson, and Wyatt Wiemer.) 2nd - West Point (Lance Ditloff, Rachel Groth, Kaleb Hasenkamp, Cole Hutchinson, Anna Karnopp, Ethan Kreikmeier, Evie Schlickbernd, and Levi Schiller.)

District 3 Juniors
Individual: 1st - Emma Heller, Wisner-Pilger; 2nd - Jacie Bonneau, Pender.
Team: 1st Wisner-Pilger (Addisyn Albers, Danika Alexander, Cameryn Bellar, Emma Heller, Owen Heller, Jocelyn Russman, Braxton Siebrandt, and Trey Stewart). 2nd - Pender (Jacie Bonneau, Rylie Bonneau, Kendra Burns, Matthew Ferris, Logan Mosser, Colton Sanderson, Kylie Sturek, and Lillie Timm).

District 4 Seniors
Individual: 1st - Christen Curtis, Creighton; 2nd Jacie Painter, Norfolk.
Team: 1st - Crofton (Connor Arens, Lauren Buschkamp, Tom Burbach, Brooklynn Fiscus, Tuff Foxhoven Tucker Goeden, Jayden Jordan, and Stran Sage). 2nd - Battle Creek (Dylan Amick, Becca Arkfeld, Elly Kurpgeweit, Keisha Nelson, Ashlynn Schwartz, Jenna Ruge).

District 4 Juniors
Individual: 1st - Levi Cronk, Summerland; 2nd Blair Jordon, Crofton.
Team: 1st - Crofton (Josie Anthony, Emma Bilka, Garret Buschkamp, April Guenther, Blair Jordan, Madisen Petersen, Megan Tramp, and Ty Tramp). 2nd - Battle Creek (Brayton Croghan, Jeret Hassler, Dane Kilday, Justine Kurpgeweit, Trinity Lutt, Quintin Uehling, and Ryan Zohner).



Extension webinar seeks to help ag producers better understand costs of production

A Nebraska Extension webinar on Feb. 11 at noon will feature a panel discussion aimed at helping farmers and ranchers to better manage costs of production.

The webinar will focus on where to find cost-of-production information, characteristics of profitable operations and areas to reduce costs without sacrificing productivity. It is the second installment in a series that seeks to help agricultural producers to better understand their financial positions.

Panelists will include Nebraska Extension Educators Glennis McClure, Aaron Berger and Austin Duerfeldt, as well as Tina Barrett, program manager at Nebraska Farm Business, Inc.

The webinar is presented as part of the Agricultural Economics Extension Farm and Ranch Management weekly series.

Registration is free at farm.unl.edu/webinars.

 

Private Pesticide Training Offered by Zoom

Nebraska Extension in Northeast and North-central Nebraska will be offering four private pesticide applicator trainings by Zoom in March and April. Each one will have a different agricultural area of focus. The areas to be focused on are corn, soybean, pasture and wheat/alfalfa.  

A few different steps will be required to attend these trainings.
1)    Preregistration will be required. Register at the following links:
        March 1 at 6 p.m. — Corn  https://go.unl.edu/patmarch1
        March 8 at 6 p.m. — Soybean  https://go.unl.edu/patmarch8
        March 25 at 1 p.m. — Pasture  https://go.unl.edu/patmarch25
        April 9 at 9 a.m. — Wheat/Alfalfa   https://go.unl.edu/patapril9
2)    Training materials will need to be picked up at a County Extension Office prior to training.
3)    Nebraska Department of Agriculture paper will need to be filled out and submitted when training materials are picked up.
4)    The training fee of $50 will need to be paid when training materials are picked up.
5)    Attend and participate in the training session for which you are registered.

No certification will be initiated unless all five steps are completed. Individuals outside of the Northeast and North-central regions are welcome to attend, but they should contact their local extension office first to see if training materials are available.  

Each training will offer individuals the opportunity to pick one of the special topics. Those being offered are:

March 1 — Corn
    Tar Spot and Bacterial Leaf Streak  
    Western Corn Rootworm  
    Palmer Amaranth and Waterhemp  

March 8 — Soybean
    Frogeye Leaf Spot, Soybean Cyst Nematode, White Mold  
    Soybean Gall Midge  
    Palmer Amaranth and Waterhemp

March 25 — Pasture
    Thistle ID and Management  
    Pocket Gophers & Prairie Dogs  
    Grasshopper Management

April 9 — Wheat/Alfalfa
    Fungicides and Wheat  
    Insecticides in Alfalfa  
    Weed Management in Alfalfa

For questions regarding the trainings, contact one the organizers below:
    Aaron Nygren, Nebraska Extension in Colfax County; by email or 402-352-3821  
    Wayne Ohnesorg, Nebraska Extension in Madison County; by email or 402-370-4040  
    Mitiku Mamo, Nebraska Extension in Dixon County; by email or 402-584-2234  
    Melissa Bartels, Nebraska Extension in Butler County; by email or 402-367-7410  
    Amy Timmerman, Nebraska Extension in Holt County; by email or 402-336-2760  
    Troy Ingram, Nebraska Extension in Valley County; by email or 308-754-5422



Ethanol: Emerging Issues Forum 2021
Thursday, March 25, 1 to 4:30 p.m.  | Friday, March 26, 9 a.m. to noon

The Nebraska Ethanol Board and Renewable Fuels Nebraska invite you to the 16th annual Ethanol: Emerging Issues Forum. A diverse group of ethanol producers and others integrally involved in production, technology, policymaking and marketing of biofuels and its co-products from across the country will participate in this virtual event. An agenda will be made available soon.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!
Registration is complimentary for this year's Forum. Early Bird Registration (through March 1) includes free sponsor swag mailed to you!  Register here... https://ethanol.nebraska.gov/events/http-ethanol-nebraska-gov-wp-content-uploads-2021-01-forum-2021-sponsors-1-png/.  



PRIME Class V Applications EXTENDED

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) has extended the application period for the PRIME Program. The PRIME Program is a continuing education opportunity for young or beginning producers who are interested in learning more about agronomic, business, innovations and marketing that will benefit their operations. Over the course of a year, participants will come together for three seminars to learn and discuss new ideas that can be incorporated into their own operations. We know the past year has been a difficult one for many and we want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to be involved in this program. It is a great way for young and beginning farmers to get their feet wet with the association and network with like minded growers from across the state.

“Providing opportunities to further education and involvement is one of our core missions,” said Andy Jobman, president of NeCGA. “The PRIME Program is one opportunity for members to focus on the agronomics and business aspects of their operations. I look forward to welcoming the fifth class into this great program.”

The first session will be in March, with dates to be determined by the participants. During this first session participants will have the opportunity to participate in the Nebraska Ag Tour. During the summer session participants will take part in a day trip to St. Louis where they will tour the Mel Price Locks & Dam. The final session will be in conjunction with the Nebraska Corn Growers Association Annual Meeting. Applications for the PRIME Program can be found here. The applications are due by Friday, February 19. All costs to participate in the program are covered for those that are 3-year members of the Association. If applicants are not members, the fee is $190 (the cost of a 3-year membership).

The PRIME Program is made possible with funding from our presenting partners, Northwestern Mutual and Farm Credit Services, along with the Nebraska Corn Board. For more information about the PRIME Program, please visit https://necga.org/prime-program/.

Please share with anyone you think may be interested! They DO NOT have to be members to apply.



FLAGship Program Applications Now Available!

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association is now accepting applications for the sixth class of the Future Leaders in Agriculture Scholarship (FLAGship) Program https://necga.org/flagship-program/. The FLAGship Program is a scholarship program intended for future agricultural leaders in Nebraska. The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) will award up to 5 $2,000 scholarships to high school seniors or college freshman who are continuing their education in the state of Nebraska. Three of the scholarships are set aside strictly for those students pursuing a degree directly related to agriculture. Two of the scholarships are open to non-agricultural degree-seeking students.

To be eligible for this scholarship students must be a member of NeCGA or the son/daughter of a NeCGA member. The application for the FLAGship Program must include one letter of recommendation, a current resume (not to exceed one page), as well as proof that the student is continuing their education in the state. Applicants are also asked to explain how they will advocate for agriculture in their future careers as well as what issues they feel the ag industry is currently facing. Applications must be postmarked by March 5, 2021, or emailed to mwrich@necga.org.



Cultivate Your Future at the 2021 Inaugural Nebraska Hemp Conference and Trade Show
 
Through a collaborative effort, several Nebraska agricultural growers, businesses and organizations are partnering to host a virtual conference in March to focus on growing the industrial hemp industry in the Midwest. Join researchers and Nebraska Extension professionals from throughout the state and region for research-based education focused on “Growing Industrial Hemp in Nebraska."

Organizers anticipate that 350 people will attend the 2021 Inaugural Nebraska Industrial Hemp Conference and Trade Show, a virtual two-day conference held on Thursday, March 25th, and Friday, March 26th, 2021. Planners intend to make this an annual event. The conference will bring together industry experts who will provide proven agronomic practices and insights to help growers make the best decisions for their farms. Several prominent speakers from around the country will be on-hand to discuss different types of hemp (CBD/Floral, Fiber, and Grain), trends across the US, growing practices, pest and disease control, harvest and post-harvest practices, nutrient management, as well as legal and banking considerations and policy news.

In addition to these educational offerings, a new segment will be added, “Building the Industrial Hemp supply-chain in Nebraska.” It will be a networking opportunity for growers, suppliers, processors, brokers, local businesses, and area organizations. The goal is to support the expansion of supply and demand networks in the region by encouraging inter-business coalitions between event attendees and businesses to strategize and find creative opportunities for outside partnerships.

The conference is sponsored in part by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Midwest Hop Producers, LLC. Conference proceeds will support further industrial hemp research and education.
Registration, agenda, sponsorships, and other details will be available on February 9, 2021 at GrowNebraskaHemp.com.



Thompson Announces Republican Agriculture Subcommittee Leadership for 117th Congress
 
Today, House Agriculture Committee Republican Leader Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15) announced the subcommittee Ranking Members for the 117th Congress.

“Rural America faces tremendous challenges—from addressing the COVID and opioid crises and preventing supply chain disruptions to expanding economic development opportunities. This is an extraordinarily talented group of members to lead our subcommittees and I look forward to working with them," said Republican Leader Thompson.

Ranking Members and assignments for the 117th Congress are as follows:
Rep. Austin Scott (GA-08) will serve as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management.

Rep. Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) will serve as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Commodity Exchanges, Energy and Credit, R&D, and Broadband.

Rep. Doug LaMalfa (CA-01) will serve as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Conservation and Forestry.

Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) will serve as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Nutrition, Oversight, and Department Operations.
 
Rep. Dr. Jim Baird (IN-04) will serve as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Biotechnology, Horticulture, and Research.

Rep. Dusty Johnson (SD-AL) will serve as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Livestock and Foreign Agriculture.



Iowa Water Summary: January Precipitation, Temps Higher than Average

While January is usually the driest month of the year, last month saw above-normal precipitation and above-normal temperatures across the state, according to the latest Water Summary Update.

Temperatures averaged 4 degrees above normal for the month, with 1.27 inches of precipitation, 0.35 inches above normal. However, abnormal dryness and drought conditions remained generally unchanged through January. Under the snow, the shallow soils are dry enough that there is the potential for drought issues later this spring.

"Despite the abundance of snow in January, there is concern over dry soils in western parts of the state," said Tim Hall, DNR's coordinator of hydrology resources. "A dry spring could be problematic for parts of the state. A virtual meeting is planned for March 4 to discuss conditions in more detail."

Staff from the Iowa DNR, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the National Weather Service, and the U.S. Geological Survey will provide current information and projections for potential drought conditions in Iowa at the meeting, to be held online from 1 to 3 p.m. Additional meeting information is available at www.iowadnr.gov/WaterSummaryUpdate.

Temperatures in January were unseasonably warm, on average 23.6 degrees or 4.2 degrees above normal. Northwestern Iowa experienced the warmest conditions, where positive departures of up to seven degrees were reported in the monthly averages. Stations in eastern Iowa reported average temperatures one to three degrees warmer than normal.

Streamflow conditions across most of the state remain normal. Flows in the Des Moines River basin continue to be below normal.

For a thorough review of Iowa's water resource trends, go to iowadnr.gov/WaterSummaryUpdate.

The report is prepared by technical staff from Iowa DNR, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, IIHR--Hydroscience and Engineering, and the U.S. Geological Survey, in collaboration with Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Department.



Iowa Legislators to Announce New Bill Stopping Factory Farms Statewide

On Tuesday, Iowa state legislators will announce new legislation to establish a statewide moratorium on factory farms. The announcement comes amidst overwhelming public support for a moratorium. According to the organizers, 63% of Iowa voters stand behind legislation to stop factory farm expansion and corporate monopolies in our food system, and recent polling suggests that these numbers have only surged in rural communities. Nationally, 88% of young rural voters and 82% of independent rural voters support moratoriums on factory farms.

Since the first introduction of a factory farm moratorium in 2017, the Iowa legislature has failed to rise to the urgency of the moment. As constituent demand mounts, Iowa bill sponsors Rep. Art Staed and Sen. Pam Jochum will speak Tuesday on the bold moves necessary from colleagues to stop factory farms. Family farmer Barb Kalbach, and local environmental activists from Food & Water Watch and Sierra Club will also speak on the urgency of this moratorium.

Following the event, impacted citizens will hold a virtual rally in support of the factory farm moratorium. Rural community leaders, farmers, and impacted Iowans will share frontline experiences with the factory farm industry, including how corporate agriculture has ravaged and divided rural communities, created a breeding ground for public health concerns, and created long-lasting damage to our environment.

This event is a joint effort of concerned citizens represented by Food & Water Watch, Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement, Iowa Citizens for Responsible Agriculture, Iowa Alliance for Responsible Agriculture, Iowa Farmers Union, Poweshiek CARES, and the Sierra Club.



Iowa Farm Couples Can Enjoy a Weekend Getaway This Spring

Couple holding hands while walking in autumn countryside, by michaeljung/stock.adobe.comAMES, Iowa – In response to high levels of both personal and financial farm stress, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is offering three “Farm Couple Getaways” aimed at farmers wanting to take advantage of activities to improve farm family communication, work on farm or family goal setting or farm transitioning, or who would just like a weekend away to discuss farm and family issues.

The first getaway will be held Friday and Saturday, March 26 and 27 at Best Western Plus in Dubuque. The dates and locations for the other getaways are as follows:                                            
    Friday and Saturday, April 9-10, at Lake Shore Center at Okoboji in Milford.
    Friday and Saturday, April 16-17, at Hotel Winneshiek in Decorah.      

The getaways run from 12:30 p.m. on the first day to 3:15 p.m. on the second day. There is no cost to attend, as food, lodging and other expenses are being paid for by sponsorships. However, there is a $50 per couple deposit to hold each reservation, refundable on the second day of the event.

“Past Farm Couple Getaways have proven to be beneficial to farm couples. They are a productive and delightful time to discuss items of importance to help farms and families be successful,” said Larry Tranel, dairy specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach.

Each getaway will consist of 10 farm couples and the extension facilitators. Registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis, due two weeks prior to each session. Registration brochures for the various sites can be obtained from select ISU Extension and Outreach county offices, or from dairy specialists.

Jenn Bentley can be reached at jbentley@iastate.edu or at the Winneshiek County office at 563-382-2949; Fred Hall, at fredhall@iastate.edu or the Sioux County office at 712-737-4230; and Larry Tranel, at tranel@iastate.edu or the Dubuque County office at 563-583-6496.

The Farm Couple Getaways statewide gold sponsor is the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, with other local sponsors recognized at each local event. More information is available in the event brochure for Eastern or Western Iowa at https://www.extension.iastate.edu/dairyteam/farm-couple-getaways.




Iowa Farm Bureau shares insights from the "Fill Your Freezer" contest

For some Iowans, the decision to serve their family real meat is based on its unique ability to strengthen their immune systems, and for others, it’s the nutritional value and health benefits found exclusively in animal protein. There are many reasons Iowans flock to the meat case, and now 106 lucky winners from each of Fareway’s Iowa locations will receive a $200 gift card for meat from the Iowa Farm Bureau’s “Fill Your Freezer” contest.

The month-long contest was part of Iowa Farm Bureau Federation’s (IFBF) Real Farmers. Real Food. Real Meat. initiative, which showcases the nutritional benefits of meat and the innovation of Iowa livestock farmers who raise it.

The 2020 Iowa Farm Bureau Food and Farm Index® shows that 95 percent of Iowa households eat meat at least weekly and 96 percent consume dairy at least weekly, while 9 in 10 see animal-based proteins such as milk (91 percent) and meat (90 percent) as healthy options.  During a time of heightened awareness of health and wellbeing, the survey revealed that nearly 9 in 10 Iowa grocery shoppers (87 percent) are likely to purchase food based on its ability to strengthen their immune systems. The survey also found that 70 percent of Iowa grocery shoppers say they are likely to increase their consumption of meat and poultry upon learning that zinc helps immune systems function properly and that meat and poultry provide the majority of the zinc in Americans’ diets.   

“Iowa farmers strive to provide consumers with a variety of real animal protein options that are not only healthy and fit into a variety of budgets, but are also sustainable,” said Craig Hill, IFBF president. “In fact, the U.S. is the world leader in sustainable livestock production. All of agriculture accounts for around 10 percent of total U.S. GHG emissions, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). By contrast, transportation accounts for 28 percent of GHG emissions and electricity accounts for nearly 27 percent. With technology available today, agriculture is on a trajectory to reduce its GHG emissions by 50 percent.”



Highlights from the February 2021 Farm Income Forecast
USDA Economic Research Service - Feb 5, 2021

Net farm income, a broad measure of profits, is forecast to decrease $9.8 billion (8.1 percent) to $111.4 billion in 2021. In inflation-adjusted 2021 dollars, net farm income is forecast to decrease $12 billion (9.7 percent) in 2021 after increasing $37.8 billion (44.2 percent) in 2020 to its highest level since 2013. Despite this decline, 2021 net farm income would be 21 percent above its 2000-19 average of $92.1 billion.

After increasing a forecasted $27.3 billion in 2020, net cash farm income is forecast to decrease $7.9 billion (5.8 percent) to $128.3 billion in 2021. Inflation-adjusted net cash farm income is forecast to decrease $10.4 billion (7.5 percent) from 2020 and would be 15.3 percent above its 2000-19 average ($111.3 billion). Net cash farm income encompasses cash receipts from farming as well as farm-related income, including Government payments, minus cash expenses. It does not include noncash items—including changes in inventories, economic depreciation, and gross imputed rental income of operator dwellings—reflected in the net farm income measure above.

Cash receipts are forecast to increase in 2021, but lower direct Government farm payments are expected to drive most of the decline in both net income measures. Cash receipts for all commodities are forecast to increase $20.4 billion (5.5 percent) to $390.8 billion (in nominal terms) in 2021. Total animal/animal product receipts are expected to increase $8.6 billion (5.2 percent) with increases in receipts for cattle/calves, hogs, and broilers. Total crop receipts are expected to increase $11.8 billion (5.8 percent) from 2020 levels following higher receipts for soybeans and corn. Direct Government farm payments are forecast at $25.3 billion in 2021, a decrease of $21 billion (45.3 percent) in nominal terms. The expected decrease is because of lower supplemental and ad hoc disaster assistance for COVID-19 relief in 2021 relative to 2020.

Also contributing to the 2021 decline in net income are higher production expenses. Total production expenses, including operator dwelling expenses, are forecast to increase $8.6 billion (2.5 percent) to $353.7 billion (in nominal terms) in 2021. Most of this reflects higher spending on feed, fertilizer, and labor.

Farm business average net cash farm income is forecast to decrease $6,100 (6.2 percent) to $91,800 per farm in 2021. Farm businesses in all resource regions are forecast to see declines in net cash farm income except the Heartland. When farm businesses are categorized by commodity specialization, most see average net farm income fall in 2021. The exceptions are farms specializing in wheat, corn, soybeans, and hogs.

Farm sector equity is forecast up by $47.8 billion (1.8 percent) to $2.74 trillion (in nominal terms) in 2021. Farm assets are forecast to increase by $57.4 billion (1.8 percent) to $3.18 trillion in 2021, reflecting anticipated increases in the value of real estate assets held by the sector. Farm debt is forecast to increase by $9.6 billion (2.2 percent) to $441.7 billion (in nominal terms), led by an expected 3.1-percent rise in real estate debt. The farm sector debt-to-asset ratio is expected to rise slightly from 13.84 percent in 2020 to 13.89 percent in 2021. Working capital, which measures the amount of cash available to fund operating expenses after paying off debt due within 12 months, is forecast to decrease 12 percent from 2020. When adjusted for inflation, farm sector equity and assets in 2021 are relatively unchanged from 2020.

Median Income of Farm Operator Households Forecast to Rise in 2020, Remain Flat in 2021
Total median farm household income is forecast to increase to $86,086 in 2020 and then remain relatively flat in 2021 at $86,917. That is a nominal increase of 3.6 percent (a 2.5 percent increase after inflation) between 2019 and 2020, and a 1 percent increase (a 0.9 percent decline after inflation) in 2021. The forecast rise in 2020—continued from 2019—is notable because it counters the trend from 2015 through 2018 of declining median farm household income.

Farm households typically receive income from both farm and off-farm sources. Median farm income earned by farm households is forecast to increase in 2020 to $767 from $296 in 2019, and then decline to $495 in 2021. The positive median farm income in 2019, and that forecasted for 2020 and 2021, is notable as median farm income earned by farm households was negative each year between 1996 and 2018. The increase in median farm income is partly because of increases in supplemental and ad hoc disaster assistance program payments. In 2020 and 2021, programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program, the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, and the latest COVID-19 aid package outlined in the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2021, are forecast to provide financial relief to those affected by the global pandemic. As in previous years, many farm households rely on off-farm income: the median is forecast to increase in 2020, up 1.5 percent to $69,784, and to continue to rise by 2.3 percent in 2021 to $71,407, making it the highest median off-farm income since 2014. Since farm and off-farm income are not distributed identically for every farm, median total income will generally not equal the sum of median off-farm and median farm income.



Statement by Matt Herrick, Director of Communications, on Latest USDA Farm Income Forecast and December Export Data

The farm income forecast and export data released today reflect a growing need to ramp up our focus on expanding existing markets to create new opportunities for farmers, ranchers and producers at home and abroad. New market opportunities will ensure our producers are not so reliant on government support or the whims of a handful of trading partners. Ultimately, the data released today demonstrates growing export strength and a rebound in cash receipts for farmers—two positive stories owed largely to growing confidence in our economy. We need to build on that confidence moving forward by using the Department’s resources to invest in developing new income sources in local and regional food systems; to open competition and ensure fairer markets for producers of all sizes and backgrounds, including Black, Hispanic, Indigenous and other farmers of color; and to put American farmers in the lead on climate solutions that create new streams of income while leading the world in sustainably produced food. All of these elements are necessary to create a more resilient food system and stronger rural economies built to withstand a pandemic or other future disruption.



February Pork Webinar: U.S. Pork Exports and Market Update

The next Checkoff-hosted webinar for pork producers features expert insights and analysis on the 2020 year-end export data, scheduled to be released today. Analysts include Brett Stuart, economist and founding partner of Global AgriTrends, as well as Dr. Clay Eastwood from the National Pork Board.

In addition, Dr. Steve Meyer, economist with Partners for Production Agriculture, will provide a market update.  

Webinar: U.S. Pork Exports and Market Update
Tuesday, Feb. 9 at 1:30 p.m. CST
Click to Register https://pork.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_M7RdjlKgQ4agMo2JfqfwuA.  



Kansas Cattleman and Veteran Jerry Bohn Becomes New NCBA President

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) today concluded its virtual Winter Business Meeting with the election of Jerry Bohn, a cattle producer from Wichita, Kan., as NCBA president.

Bohn, a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, has been a part of the cattle industry his entire life. Bohn has had an expansive career in the cattle industry since his early days of custom grazing cattle with his family in Flint Hills, to his time on Kansas State University’s award-winning livestock judging team, and eventually serving 34 years as the manager of Pratt Feeders, a commercial cattle feeding operation in his home state of Kansas. He has also dedicated his time as a leader for several state-level associations, using his expertise and experiences to mentor the next generation of industry advocates.

“As I look forward to this year as NCBA president, I have immense pride for the cattle industry and our dues-paying members that help to make this the leading cattle organization representing U.S. producers,” said Bohn. “Becoming president is my greatest honor and opportunity to give back to the industry that made me who I am today and for that I am forever grateful.”

Bohn’s term as president along with a new officer team was approved by NCBA’s board of directors. Don Schiefelbein of Minnesota was named president-elect, Todd Wilkinson of South Dakota was elected vice president. Wyoming rancher Mark Eisele was elected chair of the NCBA Policy Division and Nebraska cattle producer Buck Wehrbein was elected policy vice chair. Clay Burtrum of Oklahoma and Brad Hastings of Texas were elected as chair and vice chair of the NCBA Federation Division, respectively.

"I have heard quite a few producers in the past year say if you want to get something done in Washington, D.C. in agriculture, you better do it with the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, or it is not going to get done. This is the greatest testament to the grassroots power of our members and state affiliates. It is why I am so proud to represent NCBA as President and it is the reason I get up every day, ready to fight for the American producer."



NCBA Works to Improve Business Climate for Cattle Producers with 2021 Policy Priorities

Today, the executive committee of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) approved the organization’s top 2021 policy priorities with a continued focus on advocating for a business climate that increases opportunities for producer profitability.

“There is no doubt the past year has been difficult for cattle producers and it’s crucial that we work to implement sound policy and focus our attention on the legislative and regulatory areas that will give U.S. cattle producers the most added value,” said NCBA President Jerry Bohn. “I am looking forward to collaborating with volunteer leadership, state affiliates and stakeholders across the country to tackle the most pressing issues facing our industry.”

NCBA’s policy priorities for the coming year demonstrate several pressing issues facing farmers and ranchers, including:
-    Price discovery and transparency in cattle markets is a concern for NCBA members and is a priority for the organization along with ongoing COVID-19 recovery efforts.
-    NCBA will continue to ensure that all alternative plant-based or cell-grown protein products are labeled truthfully and their ingredients are fully represented.
-    NCBA is committed to protecting those in the cattle industry while strengthening the beef supply chain to meet the growing demand for U.S. beef. The removal of non-tariff barriers to increase worldwide markets for U.S. beef will also remain a priority for the organization.

NCBA remains committed to working closely with Congress and the Biden Administration to emphasize the U.S. cattle industry is the global model for sustainable beef production and its commitment to environmental stewardship, along with engaging on the regulatory policies, including the Navigable Waters Protection Rule (NWPR) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), that promote stability and continuity for cattle producers that face uncertainty every day.

“This framework of policy priorities is one of the most important documents approved each year. It provides direction to our staff guidance for meeting the needs of our members. The focus on improving the business climate for producers hits especially close to home for me, because I was born into the cattle business and I want to do my part, defending our industry and legacy – not just for the multi-generational producers but also newer producers that might only have a few calving seasons or sale barn trips under their belts.”



USDA Extends General Signup for Conservation Reserve Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is extending the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) General Signup period, which had previously been announced as ending on Feb. 12, 2021. USDA will continue to accept offers as it takes this opportunity for the incoming Administration to evaluate ways to increase enrollment. Under the previous Administration, incentives and rental payment rates were reduced resulting in an enrollment shortfall of over 4 million acres. The program, administered by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), provides annual rental payments for 10 to 15 years for land devoted to conservation purposes, as well as other types of payments.

Before the General CRP signup period ends, producers will have the opportunity to adjust or resubmit their offers to take advantage of planned improvements to the program.

“The Conservation Reserve Program provides a tremendous opportunity to address climate change both by retiring marginal cropland and by restoring grasslands, wetlands, and forests,” said Robert Bonnie, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary. “CRP has a 35-year track record of success beyond just climate benefits, by providing income to producers, improving water quality, reducing erosion, and supporting wildlife habitat and the hunting and fishing opportunities that go along with it. By extending this signup period, we’ll have time to evaluate and implement changes to get this neglected program back on track.”

As one of the largest private-lands conservation programs in the United States, CRP provides both economic and conservation benefits by taking land out of agricultural production. Program successes include:
    Sequestering in soils and plants over 12 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e), or about the same amount that the entire state of Delaware emits annually.
    Preventing more than 2 billion tons of soil from being blown away by wind erosion over the life of currently enrolled acres.
    Reducing phosphorous reaching streams by almost 85 million pounds, nitrogen by nearly 450 million pounds, and sediment by over 160 million tons in 2020 alone.
    Creating more than 2.3 million acres of restored wetlands while protecting more than 177,000 stream miles with riparian forest and grass buffers, enough to go around the world seven times.
    Establishing over a half million acres of dedicated pollinator habitat and nearly 15 million more acres of diverse plantings that provide forage for pollinators.
    Increasing populations of ducks and other game birds, prairie chickens, and such grassland songbirds as Baird’s Sparrow. CRP in the Northern Great Plains supports an estimated 8.6% of the grassland bird population.
    Increasing habitat that supports economic opportunities, such as job creation, related to hunting and fishing activities.

This signup for CRP gives producers an opportunity to enroll land for the first time or re-enroll land under existing contracts that will be expiring Sept. 30, 2021. All interested producers, including those on Indian reservations and with trust lands, are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center for more information.



Global U.S. Ethanol and DDGS Export Pace Slows at Year End
Ann Lewis, Senior Analyst, Renewable Fuels Assoc.
    
The official numbers are in and they confirm that, despite the pandemic and trade barriers, the U.S. ethanol industry exported 1.33 billion gallons in 2020—the fourth-largest volume on record.
 
American shipments of ethanol slowed in December by 2% to 111.3 million gallons (mg). Exports to Canada shrank 35% to 22.9 mg, equivalent to just 21% of global shipments for the month. However, exports surged to South Korea (up 89% to 12.9 mg) and China (up 45% to 12.5 mg, its largest U.S. ethanol draw since March 2018). Hong Kong entered the market essentially for first time with a hefty purchase of 10.5 mg. Shipments to Brazil fell 43% from November as the tariff rate quota expired and all shipments from the U.S. became subject to a 20% tariff. Other larger markets included Colombia (7.0 mg), the Netherlands (5.7 mg), the United Kingdom (5.6 mg), the Philippines (5.5 mg), and India (5.3 mg).
 
The U.S. imported 20.7 mg of ethanol from Brazil, up 7% from November.
 
U.S. exports of dried distillers grains (DDGS)—the animal feed co-product generated by dry-mill ethanol plants—declined 9% in December to a seven-month low of 842,738 metric tons (mt). However, U.S. exports strengthened to our largest customer, with sales to Mexico up 11% to 155,823 mt. Demand for U.S. DDGS also jumped in South Korea, rising 34% to 119,315 mt. Those markets, together with Vietnam (101,642 mt, down 21%), Indonesia (99,145 mt, up 18%), Turkey (54,956 mt, down 54%), China (43,260 mt, up 37%), Morocco (a 15-month high of 34,089 mt), and Canada (30,416 mt, down 18%), accounted for three-fourths of our export market in December. Notably, U.S. DDGS exports to Thailand dropped 56% to a 22-month low of 12,980 mt.



Despite Pandemic and Trade Barriers, U.S. Ethanol Exports Top 1.3 Billion Gallons in 2020

U.S. ethanol exports totaled 1.33 billion gallons in 2020, down 9 percent from 2019 and the lowest volume since 2016, according to official government statistics released today. Still, according to the Renewable Fuels Association, exports were a relative bright spot in 2020, as the annual volume was the fourth-highest on record and nearly one out of every 10 gallons of U.S. ethanol produced last year was exported.

“COVID-19 and protectionist trade barriers created enormous headwinds for ethanol in the international market in 2020,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “But the U.S. ethanol industry again rose to the challenge and supplied more than 1.3 billion gallons of clean, green renewable fuel to customers across the globe. American ethanol continues to play a crucial role in helping nations around the world reduce consumer fuel costs, cut harmful tailpipe pollution, and meet decarbonization commitments under the Paris climate agreement. We are especially encouraged to see that China finally re-entered the market in December, importing nearly 13 million gallons of U.S. ethanol. We enter 2021 on solid footing and the industry is optimistic about the prospects for meaningful growth in ethanol exports.”

Canada remained as the top market during 2020, receiving 326 million gallons, or almost one-quarter of the total. Shipments to Canada in 2020 were only 1.5 percent lower than the volumes exported there in 2019. Brazil received 200 million gallons of U.S. ethanol in 2020, down 40 percent from 2019 due to constant uncertainty surrounding import tariffs. India was the third-leading market, with 190 million gallons. While overall export volumes were down from 2019 levels, shipments to several key markets increased. India, the European Union, Mexico, and Nigeria all imported more U.S. ethanol in 2020 than in 2019.



 Now Accepting Applications for Valent, ASA Ag Voices of the Future Program for College Students

The American Soybean Association (ASA) is now accepting applications for the Valent Ag Voices of the Future program, which will be held July 19-22, 2021, in conjunction with the summer ASA Board meeting and Soy Issues Forum in Washington, D.C. The Ag Voices of the Future program is for students interested in improving their understanding of major agricultural policy issues, the importance of advocacy and careers that can impact agricultural policy. Class size is limited and students must be at least 18 years old to apply.

Bonus Opportunity through Agriculture Future of America
Through a partnership ASA and Valent have with collegiate organization Agriculture Future of America (AFA), two students from the 2021 Ag Voices of the Future program will also have the opportunity to win the following:
• $1,600 academic scholarship
• Complimentary registration (includes hotel stay) for the Agriculture Future of America (AFA) Leaders Conference in Nov., 2021, in Kansas City, Missouri.
• Up to $500 for reimbursement of travel expenses to the AFA Leaders Conference

Application Process
To apply for the ASA and Valent Ag Voices of the Future program, and be considered for a scholarship to the AFA Leaders Conference, students should visit the Ag Voices of the Future webpage of the ASA website, click on the green “Apply Now” button, and submit their online application by March 10. To make sure students are considered for the Ag Voices of the Future program, they should check the box that reads, “I have an interest in agriculture policy and would like to be considered for the ASA and Valent Ag Voices of the Future Program (July 19-21, in Washington, D.C.), as well as receiving an AFA Leader and Academic Scholarship.” If a student has already applied for the AFA Leaders Conference, they can still modify their application to include checking the box for the Ag Voices of the Future program.  Here's the link to register... https://soygrowers.com/education-resources/grower-education/leadership-development-programs/ag-voices-of-the-future/.