Thursday May 6 Ag News

 New Beef Passport Program Launches in Nebraska
 
The Nebraska Beef Council has launched the Good Life Great Steaks Beef Passport program highlighting over 40 Nebraska restaurants that serve outstanding beef.
 
The beef passport program urges people to visit participating restaurants this summer where they can order beef menu items, earn stamps and be entered to win prizes. Participants earning at least one stamp will be eligible for beef grilling prize packages with those acquiring at least 11 stamps eligible for the grand prize of $500 in beef and a Cabela’s cooler. The goal of the program is to highlight Nebraska’s beef industry while helping support local restaurants throughout the state.
 
“Nebraska is known for raising high quality beef and we have amazing local restaurants where you can get an outstanding beef meal,” said Adam Wegner, director of marketing for the Nebraska Beef Council. “Some are well-known restaurants in our larger cities but there are many hidden gems in the small towns across the state. We hope this passport program encourages people to travel this summer and visit places they’ve never been before to taste the great beef Nebraska has to offer.”
 
Those interested in the beef passport program are encouraged follow along on social media by joining the Good Life Great Steaks Nebraska Beef Passport group on Facebook. Members can gain access to additional information about the featured restaurants, share their photos and experiences with other members and even become eligible to win additional prize give-a-ways throughout the summer.
 
Passports are free and can be obtained at www.GoodLifeGreatSteaks.org or from any of the participating restaurants. The deadline for submitting stamped passports is September 10. All winners will be notified by September 30.
 
For additional information, visit www.GoodLifeGreatSteaks.org or contact the Nebraska Beef Council office at 1-800-421-5326.



Nebraska Beef Council May Board Meeting

The Nebraska Beef Council Board of Directors will have a virtual meeting at the NBC office in Kearney, NE, located at 1319 Central Ave. on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 beginning at 1:00 p.m. CDT.  For more information, please contact Pam Esslinger at pam@nebeef.org



2021 Nebraska Cattlemen Annual Midyear Meeting

Join us in-person June 9th and 10th for our 2021 Annual Midyear Meetings!

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9
All Wednesday events at Fremont Golf Club (2710 N. Somers Ave – Fremont, NE)
Please note: attendees must follow current state, local, and facility Covid-19 requirements.

7:30 am   NC Board of Directors Meeting

11:00 am   NC Midyear Golf Tournament – Midyear Registration is required.
This annual event will once again be a four-person scramble with registration beginning at 11:00 am.  Fremont Golf Club is an 18 hole course and registration will be limited to 144 players.  Register as an individual or identify your own four-person team.  Cart and lunch will be provided for all players.

11:30 am   NC Midyear Area Attractions Tour – Midyear Registration is required.
Meet at Fremont Golf Club at 11:30 am where a lunch will be provided for all tour guests.  The tour bus will leave and return to Fremont Golf Club.  Enjoy an afternoon of touring local businesses.
    Lincoln Premium Poultry
    Hansen – Mueller
    Merritt Trailers, Inc.
    Valmont Industries, Inc.

6:00 pm   NC Midyear Welcome Reception – Midyear Registration is required.

Enjoy an evening of food and drink with neighbors and fellow NC Cattlemen members

THURSDAY, JUNE 10
All Thursday events at Midland University
Please note: attendees must follow current state, local, and facility Covid-19 requirements.

7:00 am   Registration Open

8:00 am   Brand and Property Rights / Natural Resource and Environment Committee Joint Meeting
The Brand and Property Rights and Natural Resources and Environment Committees will meet jointly with a presentation on the Conservation Goals of the Biden Administration and Its Effects on Property Rights.

8:45 am   Brand and Property Rights Committee Meeting
The Brand and Property Rights Committee individual meeting will include discussion on Brand Legislation for 2021 and 2022 and an update from the Nebraska Brand Committee.

8:45 am   Natural Resource and Environment Meeting
The  Natural Resources and Environment Committee individual meeting have a discussion on Proposed Water Management Areas and Nitrates in Drinking Water programs at local NRD’s.

10:15 am   Education and Research Committee Meeting
The Education and Research Committee will include updates from Northeast Community College, Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture, Southeast Community College and the University of Nebraska.  In addition, Chandler Mulvaney with NCBA will discuss the Masters of Beef Advocacy and Sarah Smith with the Nebraska Department of Education will discuss the  Farm to School Program Act.

10:15 am   Taxation Committee Meeting
The Taxation Committee will have a Federal Tax Update including the Biden Administration plans and pending Federal Legislation.  In addition, a Nebraska State Senator panel to discuss the 2021 Legislative efforts, LB 1107 and plans for the 2022 Session will occur.  Invited State Senators include Senator Curt Friesen, Senator Tom Briese and Senator Steve Erdman.

12:30 pm   Nebraska Cattlemen Foundation Lunch
During the annual NC Foundation lunch, leaders will discuss the Foundation’s activities and programs, announce the winners of the 2021 Retail Value Steer Challenge and recognize the recipients of the 2021 NCF Youth Scholarships.  In addition, a formal recognition of the 2020 Friend of the Foundation will occur.

2:00 pm   Animal Health and Nutrition Committee Meeting
The Animal Health and Nutrition Committee will have a discussion on Rendering Challenges and Solutions, Changes in Attitudes within APHIS and RFID Use along with an update of the 2021 Legislative Session.    

2:00 pm   Marketing and Commerce Committee Meeting
The NC Marketing and Commerce Committee will include a discussion on Nebraska Legislative bills on improving broadband access, a report on the efforts of NCBA’s Live Cattle Marketing Working Group and Regional Triggers Subgroup to voluntarily increase regional negotiated trade levels in the fed cattle market towards research-supported robust levels, and an update on federal legislative efforts on the fed cattle price discovery and transportation fronts including Senator Fischer’s Cattle Market Transparency Act and HAULS Act.

2:00 pm   NCW Consumer Education and Promotion Committee Meeting
The NCW Consumer Education and Promotion Committee meeting will have updates from the Nebraska Beef Council and discussion on Beef Advocacy efforts with UNL Youth Meat Animal Extension Assistant Professor Brianna Buseman and NCBA Director of Grassroots Advocacy & Spokesperson Development Chandler Mulvaney.

4:00 pm   General Session/Reception
Make sure to attend the General Session & Reception which will wrap up this year’s Midyear Meeting.  Enjoy a drink and hors d’oeuvres and hear from NCBA President Jerry Bohn and former Nebraska Governor, US Secretary of Agriculture and Nebraska US Senator Mike Johanns.  In addition, a formal recognition of the 2020 Industry Service Award and Hall of Fame recipients will occur.
Registration is open online NOW until June 4th. After June 4th you may register on-site only!

More Information: https://nebraskacattlemen.org/events/nebraska-cattlemen-midyear-meeting/.



Nebraska Coalition Unites Against Tax Hikes Threatening Family Farms, Businesses, Communities

A Nebraska-based coalition has formed in opposition to Washington, D.C., tax hikes that could threaten family farms, businesses, and communities. Members of Nebraska’s congressional delegation joined leaders from the NE Chamber and the Nebraska Farm Bureau to launch “Nebraskans for Tax Truth”, Thursday, May 6. The coalition will focus on ensuring Nebraskans know the truth about how tax hikes would impact Nebraskans in light of proposals floated by President Joe Biden and other members of congress. Discussions in Washington, D.C., have centered around ramping up capital gains, estate (death taxes), and corporate taxes. Coalition partners say raising taxes in these areas would have far-reaching impacts that not only threaten Nebraska’s family businesses and primary economic sectors, but Nebraskans who rely on those businesses for employment. Coalition representatives will look to grow the coalition and partners over the next few months heading into Congressional tax discussions targeted for late summer and early fall. The coalition urged individual Nebraskans to learn more and sign the coalition’s petition in support of common-sense tax policies, particularly post-pandemic, by visiting the coalition’s website at www.nebraskansfortaxtruth.org. 

Coalition Partner Quotes:
“President Biden wants to raise the capital gains tax to the highest level in history and force American businesses and their customers to pay the highest combined corporate tax rate in the developed world. I am proud to support the creation of Nebraskans for Tax Truth. This coalition will highlight how these extreme tax increases would be devastating for Nebraska’s families, ag producers, and economy as a whole.” – U.S. Senator Deb Fischer, Member of Senate Agriculture Committee

“President Biden’s efforts to tax and spend — and then tax and spend more — aren’t what we need right now. Our state is built of small businesses and the policies coming down from Washington are downright scary for a bunch of Nebraska’s small businesses and family-run farm and ranch operations. Instead, the Administration should be finding more trade markets and cutting red tape — so we can keep feeding the world.”  – U.S. Senator Ben Sasse

“The decision before us is whether we stand with the American farm family, allow the inter-generational capacity to grow food, and a vibrant ecosystem of rural life, or watch as large corporations and trust-funds gobble up more land all because of tax considerations.” – Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (NE -1), Ranking Member, House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

“As I have visited farms and ranches across Nebraska these past four months, I hear strong concerns from our state’s ag producers about the possible loss of both the stepped-up basis and the assessment of tax capital gains upon the sale of an asset in the tax code. I will continue to oppose such efforts in Congress and joined my colleagues Reps. Smith and Fischbach in sending a letter to House Leadership opposing the administration’s proposals for these changes.” – Congressman Don Bacon (NE-2)

“I appreciate the work Nebraska’s farmers, ranchers, and small businesses are doing to highlight the damage the onslaught of tax increase proposals coming from the Biden Administration would do to our economy. We have seen how successful competitive tax policy can be when it rewards job creation and job opportunity. Raising tax rates, punishing family businesses, and taking dollars out of the pockets of hardworking Americans is the last thing we need right now.” – Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-3)

“The proposed White House tax hikes will hit Nebraska’s food and goods-producing sectors hard – our top two job creators across the state. Several other family-owned businesses, key sectors, and the investments that fuel startups and grow jobs for all Nebraskans would suffer too. You get less of what you tax more. It’s hard to understand how policymakers could consider curbing American competitiveness just when what America needs most is to move people back into work and rebuild our post-pandemic economy.” – Bryan Slone, NE Chamber President

“Today 97 percent of all U.S. farms are family owned and operated. These are multi-generational family operations. Increasing taxes on generational transfers of through increased capital gains and estate taxes can permanently damage these family businesses. No farm or ranch should be broken up or forced to sell because of a government tax burden. A family members death shouldn’t be viewed by the government as a way to get a share of a family’s business. That’s what these tax hikes will do regardless how Washington D.C. tries to spin it. We’ll do everything in our power to stop it.” – Mark McHargue, Nebraska Farm Bureau President

Nebraskans for Tax Truth is a coalition of individuals and organizations united in opposition to federal tax increases and committed to making sure Nebraskans know the truth about how Washington, D.C., tax hikes would harm Nebraska family farms, businesses, and communities.



CARRYING CAPACITY AND CROSS FENCES
– Ben Beckman, NE Extension Educator

As we prepare for spring planting, don't put away your electric fence just yet.  It can be a useful tool to stretch your pasture this summer.

Electric fence is the easiest and cheapest way to increase utilization in summer pastures.  Dividing pastures with an electric cross fence encourages cattle to graze pastures more completely.  By increasing uniform consumption across a pasture, grazing time in the pasture can be extended, resulting in a longer recovery period following grazing.  This time off allows plants to regrow and can improve their health and vigor.  With high pasture rent and rumors of a hot, dry summer, stretching grass a bit early may pay off in the long run.

Temporary electric fence won’t replace the role permanent fencing options like traditional barbed wire and, high-tensile electric fencing systems still hold.  However, the low cost and easily moveable nature of temporary fence make it invaluable for a cross fencing tool.  This is especially true if you already have electric fencing your animals respect.  Being able to change paddock size on the go is a benefit permanent fence installations don’t provide.  Additionally, using fencing equipment you already have provides an inexpensive opportunity to experiment with where you might eventually place a more permanent cross fence.

The electric fence that keeps your cows on stalks during winter can give you this inexpensive opportunity to try some cross fencing where you have been reluctant to try it before. More grass, might be the result.



Farmers invited to participate in inaugural East Campus Discovery Days and Farmer’s Market

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources is seeking farmers to participate in the inaugural East Campus Discovery Days and Farmer’s Market, which will take place on three Saturdays this summer.  

The events will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 12, July 10 and Aug. 14 and will feature a farmer’s market, as well as live music, food trucks, family activities and much more.  

“Hosting a farmer’s market on East Campus will be an incredible addition to all of the other amazing things happening on campus”, said Jessie Brophy, director of external engagement for IANR. “This new series of events present a wonderful opportunity to connect Nebraska’s farmers and producers with our community members to provide access to locally produced nutritious food.”

There is no participation cost or stall fee for those who participate. Participation is expected all three Saturdays. More information and application materials may be found at https://discoverydays.unl.edu/vendors.  

More information on East Campus Discovery Days and Farmers Market is available online at https://discoverydays.unl.edu, with more information to be added as vendors and activities are finalized. For questions or additional information, contact Jessie Brophy at jbrophy3@unl.edu or Kirstin Taylor at ktaylor21@unl.edu.  



UNIVERSITY RECEIVES $1.5M RANCHLAND FOR EDUCATION, RESEARCH, OUTREACH

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln and the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis announced the university has received a gift of 2,147 acres of ranchland in northeast Hayes County. David Scholz and his late wife, Sandra “Sande” Scholz, made the gift valued at nearly $1.5 million through the University of Nebraska Foundation for education and research purposes.

“Through this extremely generous donation, David and Sande Scholz are giving NCTA students access to the kinds of hands-on, experiential education that is impossible to replicate in a classroom,” said Mike Boehm, NU vice president and Harlan Vice Chancellor for the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “This gift represents the ultimate laboratory for NCTA students, and their experience will be richer — and Nebraska’s agricultural workforce will be stronger — as a result.”

A portion of the gifted land was originally acquired by Frank B. and Mabel (Wray) Leu in 1902 through the Homestead Act. Over the years, the Leu family, including Frank B. Leu’s siblings, acquired adjacent land for cattle ranching and dryland farming.

Sande (Clark) Scholz, a Husker alumna, was granddaughter to Frank and Mabel Leu and lived on the ranch for a time in her early childhood. She had good memories of time with her grandparents on the ranch, even after moving to North Platte, where she attended school. She inherited the Leu property through the estate of her mother, Grayce (Leu) Clark.

In honor and recognition of the Leu family’s pioneering spirit and longtime care of the land, the university will seek approval of its Board of Regents to name it the Frank B. and Mabel Leu Memorial Ranch.

“It was a special property to Sande because of her grandparents,” said David Scholz, a Husker alumnus who lives in Fort Collins, Colorado. “We discussed that using the land for educational purposes would be a way to honor her grandparents and the many others of that generation who settled in Western Nebraska — the ranchers who pioneered there and worked so hard.”

NCTA Dean Larry Gossen said: “On behalf of our campus community in Curtis and the surrounding region, we are excited to honor the wishes of David and Sande Scholz by preserving the Leu family’s ranching history as an outdoor learning laboratory emphasizing range management and beef cattle production. The educational opportunities this gift provides NCTA and our Aggie students are significant.”

Scholz said it’s rewarding to know the ranch will now be used as an educational facility to help students learn various aspects of ranching, including caring for cattle, keeping ranchlands, managing healthy and productive pastureland and more.

“Both Sande and I believe in education and particularly vocational education,” Scholz said. “And in talking with the university over the years, we discussed that a lot of young people who are interested in farming and ranching don’t necessarily come from this background, so they don’t have an opportunity to grow up and learn on a ranch or a farm. By enabling the university to have the ranch for use in their teaching curriculum, it gives students an opportunity to learn so many aspects of ranching.”

NCTA has plans in partnership with the University of Nebraska Foundation to raise funds for enhancements at the Frank B. and Mabel Leu Memorial Ranch. This could include a meeting facility for students, guests and faculty, as well as improvements needed for the care of livestock animals.

About Frank B. and Mabel (Wray) Leu
Frank B. and Mabel (Wray) Leu were married in 1901 and first lived in Danbury, Nebraska. They were parents to three boys and two girls. Their daughter, Grayce (Leu) Clark, was the mother of Sande (Clark) Scholz.

The Leus valued education and made certain their children attended the Nebraska School of Agriculture in Curtis, which is now NCTA. Their children went on to attend other schools of higher education in Nebraska, including the University of Nebraska.

Frank B. Leu was born in Saunders County in 1877 and died in North Platte in 1975. Mable Leu was born in Culbertson in 1881 and died in North Platte in 1957.

About David and Sande (Clark) Scholz
David and Sande Scholz met while attending Nebraska. Sande studied psychology and social work and graduated in 1963. David studied electrical engineering and graduated in 1964. The two then moved to New York to attend graduate school at Columbia University, where Sande received a Master of Social Work and David received a Master of Business Administration and Juris Doctor.

The couple married in 1965 and moved to the Chicago area, where they established their careers and raised their sons, Brian and Daniel.

David enjoyed a long career with Commonwealth Edison, the electric power company serving Chicago and northern Illinois. Sande served as a social worker for various organizations, including the Institute for Juvenile Research and Illinois Children’s Home and Aid Society. She later spent many years as a social worker with the River Forest, Illinois, school system. She died in 2019 at age 78.



14th Annual Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference Registration is Open

Registration is now open for the 14th Annual Nebraska Wind & Solar Conference that will be held on Monday, November 8, and Tuesday, November 9, 2021, at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel in Lincoln, Nebraska.
 
The conference is a two-day event bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders from Nebraska and across the country to share the latest information and innovations in wind and solar development.  Past years' conferences have seen over 300 attendees to hear from and network with wind and solar industry experts and leaders.
 
In addition to general sessions and workshops, the conference features a tradeshow with 35 to 40 exhibitors showcasing the latest advancements in technology and development.  The tradeshow includes interactive and educational displays from exhibitors, including governmental agencies, nonprofits, and a wide range of professional service and product providers related to wind and solar development.
 
The conference planning committee consists of volunteers from state agencies, farmer and rancher organizations, public power utilities, the renewable energy industry, and academia working together to present accurate and objective information about all aspects of wind and solar development.  Attendees include private sector developers, public officials, landowners, environmental and wildlife interests, public utilities, and the public at large.
 
"We look forward to holding an in-person conference this year," said John Hansen, Conference Chair. "There has been tremendous progress in both wind and solar development the past two years.  While our enormous wind and solar energy potential remains constant, state and national issues that impact renewable energy development are ever-changing.  Our unique conference brings together top-notch speakers, outstanding exhibitors, and a diverse set of stakeholders to help us build the path forward for wind and solar energy development."
 
Early bird registration is open now until October 8 and is $125.  Registration through the end of October is $175. As of November 1, registration is $225 through the day of the conference.  Student registration is discounted to $65 with a limited number of scholarships available.

A room block is available at the Cornhusker Marriott Hotel at $113 per night (includes free parking) until October 18 or until full.

More information and past presentations are available on the conference website at www.nebraskawsc.com.



Agronomy Workshop and Certified Crop Advisor Training to be Offered

Carbon markets and weed management strategies in soybeans will be the featured topics at an upcoming Agronomy Workshop and Crop Advisor Training to be offered from 8 a.m. to noon on June 16.

The training is targeted toward farmers, certified crop advisors, agribusiness professionals and independent crop consultants. It will feature the following four sessions that participants will rotate through: carbon markets, the science of carbon markets, integrated weed management strategies in soybeans and soybean herbicide programs.

“We are excited to be offering this workshop face-to-face this year,” said Rebecca Vittetoe, field agronomist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. “We’ve got some in-field demonstrations that participants will be able to check out and also have a chance to visit with different experts including Chad Hart, professor in economics and extension grain markets specialist at Iowa State, and Marshall McDaniel, assistant professor in agronomy at Iowa State.”

There will be one hour of soil and water management continuing education units, one hour of crop management CEUs and two hours of pest management CEUs for certified crop advisor.

There is a $50 registration fee, which includes lunch. Pre-registration is required by June 9 and can be completed at http://www.aep.iastate.edu/serf-cca or by calling the ISU Extension and Outreach Washington County office at 316-653-4811. No walk-ins will be accepted. Class size is limited to 60 participants.

The Southeast Research and Demonstration Farm is located at 3115 Louisa-Washington Road, Crawfordsville, Iowa. To reach the farm, follow U.S. Highway 218 one and three-quarters of a mile south of Crawfordsville, then two miles east on County Road G-62, then three-quarters of a mile north. Signs will be posted near the farm.

This training is being held by ISU Extension and Outreach and the Southeast Iowa Agricultural Research Association.

For more information, contact Rebecca Vittetoe at 319-653-4811, or rka8@iastate.edu; or Virgil Schmitt at 563-263-5701 or vschmitt@iastate.edu.



U.S. Grains Council To Hold Hybrid 61st Annual Board Of Delegates Meeting In Des Moines

While international travel restrictions due to COVID-19 have required the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) to postpone its 61st Annual Board of Delegates meeting in Calgary, Canada, until 2023, USGC Chairman Jim Raben announced this week that the 2021 summer meeting will be moved to Des Moines, Iowa, July 28-30.

“My theme of Building Relationships, Building Trade has taken on new meaning during the pandemic and in how we accomplish these tasks to keep trade moving around the world,” Raben said. “The Council has decided to offer its 61st Annual Board of Delegates Meeting in a hybrid format – so attendees can choose either an in-person or virtual experience.”

Registration for the event will open the week of May 17, and the Council will offer a virtual townhall meeting on May 12 at 9:00AM Eastern Time to go through what attendees can expect from the Council’s first-ever hybrid meeting and to answer questions about it. Council staff continue to work on the details of the agenda.

“In Des Moines, the Council will follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s continued guidance of masking and social distancing as a precautionary measure and will require adherence by all in-person attendees,” Raben said. “The Council’s goal is to keep you as safe as possible while continuing to offer the caliber of programming you’ve come to expect from us.”



World Pork Expo’s Seminars Educate on Latest Pork Insights

Professionals in the pork industry will be the first to have access to the latest production and management strategies at this year’s World Pork Expo. This year’s line-up of PORK Academy and Business Seminars gives producers the opportunity to learn more about topics such as sustainability, data, industry collaborations, nutrition and more.

Visitors can find these seminars, networking opportunities, the world’s largest pork trade show and more at the 2021 World Pork Expo, presented by the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC), taking place June 9-11 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa.

“These seminars provide a fantastic opportunity for all pork professionals to stay up-to-date on the latest information and insights available,” said NPPC President Jen Sorenson, communications director for Iowa Select Farms in West Des Moines, Iowa. “The Expo is truly a can’t miss event for those who are interested in how they can improve their own operations with the newest technology.”
 
More than 10 Business Seminars to Choose From
This year’s line-up includes a variety of sessions including multi-part panel discussions and Q&A opportunities. All Business Seminars take place in the Varied Industries Building. Here’s the schedule of events:

Wednesday, June 9:
    8:00 a.m. – 8:45 a.m. — The evolution and revolution of the swine tech ecosystem.  Driving business and production results with a software platform via connections, collaboration, and analytic insights, sponsored by MetaFarms.
    9:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. — Learn firsthand how MetaFarms and Industry Affiliates are helping producers get the upper edge through the MetaFarms Production Gateway highlighting our AgView integration with the National Pork Board.
    10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. — How to use analytics to control costs, uncover opportunities, and create a successful data culture within your organization — sponsored by MetaFarms.
    11:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. — Understand how the technology of today and tomorrow has practical uses in production systems. MetaFarms asks some of our forward-thinking customers to share how they are leveraging technology to identify issues using analytics, formulate plans to fix these issues and lastly, determine if their solution was successful.

Cost Effective Strategies for Sustainability in Pork Production: A four-part panel discussion for producers, sponsored by the National Pork Board and IFF Danisco Animal Nutrition.
    1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. — Understanding Sustainability. What are the Benchmarks for Producers Outlined by the National Pork Board and the USDA? Land use, water consumption, energy consumption, carbon emissions and more; what’s been accomplished and what lies ahead?
    2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. — Tools for Producers: What You Feed Your Pigs Can Impact Manure Management. Listen as our panelists discuss manure management practices that influence quality, application, environmental footprint and more.
    3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Nutrition and Sustainability: Driving feed strategies to meet environmental stewardship and cost efficiency goals; options to put you in the driver’s seat.
    4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. — Sustainability: Effectively Communicating Your Story. Science and soundbites for producers.

Big Ideas In Pork: Whether it’s big ideas or innovative thinking you’re looking for at this year’s World Pork Expo, Cargill-Provimi is pleased to bring you topics and experts to tackle the big challenges and the solutions needed to help pork producers, and our communities, thrive.
    1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. — Rethinking Methane: Animal Agriculture’s Path to Climate Neutrality
    2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. — Disruption: Technology and the Pork Systems of the Future

Thursday, June 10: Learn the latest about sow health, performance and care presented and sponsored by Zoetis.
    10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. — Becoming Vaccinologists: Critical Vaccination Training for Caregivers
    1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. — Successful Sow Health Through Individual Sow Care
    3:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m. — Improve Treatment Outcomes With Individual Pig Care Training

And don’t forget this year’s can’t miss PORK Academy events. Included with admission, attendees can participate in 6 free sessions. Presented by the National Pork Board and Pork Checkoff, the PORK Academy seminars give producers a deeper understanding of their checkoff investments.

There’s still time to register to join thousands of pork industry professionals at this summer’s hottest event. Learn more about the 2021 World Pork Expo by visiting our website. All the details including registration, daily event schedules, hotel availability and more are available online at www.worldpork.org.



 African Swine Fever Virus Vaccine Candidate Now Produced in a Cell Line

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) today announced that an African Swine Fever Virus vaccine candidate has been adapted to grow in a cell line, which means that those involved in vaccine production will no longer have to rely on live pigs and their fresh cells for vaccine production.

“This opens the door for large-scale vaccine production, which is a valuable tool for the possible eradication of the virus,” said senior ARS scientist Dr. Manuel Borca.

African Swine Fever is known to cause virulent, deadly outbreaks in wild and domestic swine, causing widespread and lethal outbreaks in various countries in Eastern Europe and throughout Asia.

African Swine Fever is not a threat to humans and cannot be transmitted from pigs to humans. However, outbreaks have led to significant economic losses and pork shortages on local and global scales.

No commercial vaccines are currently available to prevent the virus from spreading.  There have not been any outbreaks in the United States, but it’s estimated that a national outbreak could cost at least $14 billion over two years, and $50 billion over 10 years.

This discovery, highlighted in the Journal of Virology, overcomes one of the major challenges for manufacturing of an African Swine Fever Virus vaccine. The newly developed vaccine, grown in a continuous cell line — which means immortalized cells that divide continuously or otherwise indefinitely — has the same characteristics as the original vaccine produced with fresh swine cells.

“Traditionally we used freshly isolated swine cells to produce vaccine candidates and this constitutes a significant limitation for large-scale production” said senior ARS scientist Dr. Douglas Gladue. “But now we can retain the vaccine characteristics while simultaneously replicating the vaccine in lab-grown cell cultures. We no longer have to rely on gathering fresh cells from live swine.”

The continuous cell line vaccine candidate was tested in a commercial breed of pigs and determined to be safe, protecting pigs against the virus. No negative effects were observed.

This research was supported in part by an interagency agreement between the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Some of the scientific personnel were part of the Plum Island Animal Disease Center Research Participation Program, administered by the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education. All animal studies were performed at the Plum Island Animal Disease Center, following a protocol approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee.



CME Group to Permanently Close Most Open Outcry Trading Pits; Eurodollar Options Pit will Remain Open

CME Group, the world's leading and most diverse derivatives marketplace, today announced that it will not reopen its physical trading pits that were closed last March due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.  The Eurodollar options pit, which was reopened last August, will remain open, allowing these contracts to continue to trade in both open outcry and electronic venues.

CME Group also announced that, subject to regulatory review, it will delist its full-size, floor-based S&P 500 futures and options contracts following the expiration of the September 2021 contracts on September 17, 2021. Open interest that remains after the delisting will be migrated into the E-mini S&P 500 futures and options contracts that are available electronically on CME Globex.  All individual trading positions will be converted into the corresponding E-mini S&P 500 contracts with the matching expiration date and strike price for options at the current 1:5 ratio.  



Biden-Harris Administration Outlines “America the Beautiful” Initiative

Today the Biden-Harris administration outlined a vision for how the United States can work collaboratively to conserve and restore the lands, waters, and wildlife that support and sustain the nation. The recommendations are contained in a report released today (PDF, 540 KB) outlining a locally led and voluntary nationwide conservation goal to conserve 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030.

The report calls for a decade-long effort to support locally led and voluntary conservation and restoration efforts across public, private, and Tribal lands and waters in order to create jobs and strengthen the economy’s foundation; tackle the climate and nature crises; and address inequitable access to the outdoors.

The report, submitted to the National Climate Task Force, was developed by the U.S. Departments of the Interior, Agriculture and Commerce, and the White House Council on Environmental Quality. It outlines eight principles that should guide the nationwide effort, including a pursuit of collaborative approaches; a commitment to supporting the voluntary conservation efforts of farmers, ranchers, and fishers; and honoring of Tribal sovereignty and private property rights.

“The President’s challenge is a call to action to support locally led conservation and restoration efforts of all kinds and all over America, wherever communities wish to safeguard the lands and waters they know and love,” write Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, and White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Brenda Mallory in the report. “Doing so will not only protect our lands and waters but also boost our economy and support jobs nationwide.”

Based on feedback gathered in the Administration’s first 100 days, the report identifies six priority areas for the administration’s early focus, investments, and collaboration:
    Creating more parks and safe outdoor opportunities in nature-deprived communities.
    Supporting Tribally led conservation and restoration priorities.
    Expanding collaborative conservation of fish and wildlife habitats and corridors.
    Increasing access for outdoor recreation.
    Incentivizing and rewarding the voluntary conservation efforts of fishers, ranchers, farmers, and forest owners.
    Creating jobs by investing in restoration and resilience projects and initiatives, including the Civilian Climate Corps.

The Biden-Harris administration is already taking steps to support outdoor recreation and equitable access to the outdoors:
    In late April, USDA expanded the Conservation Reserve Program by offering new incentives, higher rental rates, and more focused attention on sensitive lands with a goal of enrolling 4 million acres and capturing 3.6 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent in this voluntary conservation program.
    This week, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced a proposal for the largest expansion in recent history of hunting and sport fishing opportunities for game species across 2.1 million acres at 90 national wildlife refuges and on the lands of one national fish hatchery.
    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently announced the expansion of the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, nearly tripling the size of the sanctuary and protecting 14 reefs and banks that are habitat for recreationally important fish.
    In the coming days, the National Park Service will announce $150 million in funding for the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program, which helps build parks in underserved communities.
    NOAA is working in partnership with the State of Connecticut to create a living classroom for education, research, and recreation by designating a National Estuarine Research Reserve in Long Island Sound. The final designation paperwork is expected by January 2022, which will make it the 30th estuary reserve in the national system.

To help measure and track progress toward the nation’s first conservation goal, the report calls for the establishment of an interagency working group, led by the U.S. Geological Survey, the Natural Resources Conservation Service and NOAA in partnership with other land and ocean management agencies. The working group will develop the American Conservation and Stewardship Atlas, a tool that will better reflect the voluntary contributions of farmers, ranchers, forest owners and private landowners; the contributions of fishery management councils; and other existing conservation designations on lands and waters across federal, state, local, Tribal, and private lands and waters across the nation.

In line with Executive Order 14008, the agencies developed the recommendations after hearing from Tribal leaders, governors and their staff, Members of Congress and their staff, county officials, state elected officials, state fish and wildlife agencies, leaders on equity and justice in conservation policy, environmental advocacy organizations, hunting and fishing organizations, regional fisheries management councils, farming and ranching organizations, trade associations, forestry representatives, outdoor recreation businesses and users, the seafood industry, and others.

The report recommends additional dialogue with key partners – including states and Tribes - to inform early collaborative conservation efforts and the development of the American Conservation and Stewardship Atlas.

“This report is only the starting point on the path to fulfilling the conservation vision that President Biden has outlined,” says the report. “Where this path leads over the next decade will be determined not by our agencies, but by the ideas and leadership of local communities. It is our job to listen, learn, and provide support along the way to help strengthen economies and pass on healthy lands, waters, and wildlife to the generations to come.”



 Fischer Statement on Biden Administration’s 30x30 Principles Outline

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) released the text of its “America the Beautiful” initiative, which outlined principles regarding the Biden administration’s proposal for the federal government to conserve at least 30% of the nation’s land and water resources by 2030, known as “30x30”:

“Despite the lofty principles in this report, we are still nowhere closer to understanding how the administration would accomplish them. While the administration has made efforts recently to take into account feedback from land owners, farmers, and ranchers, this should have been done prior to announcing the proposal in January. Nebraskans are worried about this proposal and information as to how these principles will be implemented must be provided. I will work to ensure Nebraskans have a seat at the table throughout this process, and that their personal property rights are protected.”

More information:
On January 27, 2021 President Biden signed an executive order directing the Secretary of the Interior to develop a plan to conserve at least 30% of the lands and waterways in the U.S. by the year 2030. Today’s report released by the DOI outlines the principles of that 30x30 plan.

Senator Fischer has long been an opponent of the federal government expanding its control over land and water resources. She joined her colleagues in sending a letter to President Biden in March expressing concerns over the proposed 30x30 initiative’s potential impact on private land owners.  She voted against confirming Interior Secretary Deb Haaland because of Haaland’s support of 30x30 and her unwillingness to provide details on the proposal when asked during her confirmation process.”



Ricketts Slams “Vague” 30 x 30 Report from Biden-Harris Administration Agencies

Today, Governor Pete Ricketts issued a statement following the release of a new report by the Biden-Harris Administration on their 30 x 30 plan.  

“Nebraskans have rightly been concerned about President Biden’s radical climate agenda and his 30 x 30 plan,” said Gov. Ricketts.  “To date, his plans have been long on lofty goals and short on details, which has fueled speculation and concern.  Today’s report provides few new details and more vague platitudes and goals—and it’s not good.”

“Nebraskans should not be deceived by the report’s ‘America the Beautiful’ branding.  This rollout includes the endorsements of a wide array of environmental lobbying groups while mainstream agriculture stakeholders continue to be cut out of the process.”

“While the report states that 30 x 30 will include voluntary private measures, at least in part, this reassurance is not enough.  If the Biden Administration really believed that voluntary measures worked, they would leave conservation efforts to the states and private landowners instead of pursuing a national strategy that imposes goals written by federal bureaucrats.”

“As President Biden’s 30 x 30 plan begins to evolve and take shape, my administration will work to stop any interference with our rights that arises.  I encourage Nebraskans to be on the lookout in their community for potential federal interventions or other attempts to make land less available.  Together, we can push back on federal overreach and protect our way of life.”



Conserving and Restoring the America the Beautiful Report Known as 30X30
Mark McHargue, President,  NE Farm Bureau

In response to the Conserving and Restoring the America the Beautiful report also known as 30X30, Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) President Mark McHargue said “The Biden administration has again talked a big game but has provided very few real details as to how they plan to implement the 30x30 concept. The report released by the administration claims they want to focus on voluntary conservation efforts and will respect private property rights, and that’s a good thing. At the same time, NEFB will be watching this effort very carefully to ensure that those principals are upheld. Any effort to upend private land ownership or expand perpetual easements will be swiftly opposed by our organization.”



30x30 Report Big on Ideas, Short on Details

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the Conserving and Restoring America the Beautiful report, also known as 30x30:

“AFBF appreciates that the report acknowledges concerns we have raised and recognizes the oversized contributions of farmers and ranchers to conservation while feeding the world. That recognition must carry through implementation. The report is a philosophical document that emphasizes important principles such as incentive-based voluntary conservation, protecting personal and property rights and continued ranching on public lands, but it lacks specifics. I had several positive conversations with Secretary Vilsack about 30x30 and we will work with him and his colleagues to ensure the details live up to promises made to protect American agriculture.”



NCBA and PLC Pleased To See Ranchers and Farmers' Input Adopted In 30x30 Guidelines

Today, the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) and Public Lands Council (PLC) recognized the inclusion of agricultural producers' recommendations in the Biden administration's conservation goals report. The report details the administration's approach to conserving 30 percent of the nation's land and waters by the year 2030 — an initiative previously called 30x30 and now dubbed "America the Beautiful." The report lays out a 10-year roadmap for conservation that includes many of the priorities that are most important to cattle and sheep producers, including the protection of private property rights, learning from successful working lands management, and leveraging the expertise of ag producers for the benefit of lands, wildlife, and all land users.

"We are pleased to see USDA and DOI incorporate many of the recommendations of America's farmers and ranchers into this conservation plan. This is a productive starting point that builds on the input of a diverse array of stakeholders — and moving forward, our focus will be on holding the administration and federal agencies to it," said Kaitlynn Glover, NCBA Executive Director of Natural Resources and PLC Executive Director. "Over the next decade, livestock producers will continue doing what they've done for generations — manage their lands in a way that promotes conservation and good environmental outcomes, and share that expertise with federal agencies."

"If you want to see successful examples of protecting open spaces, improving the health and resiliency of public lands, and balancing durable conservation with multiple use, look no further than American cattle and sheep producers," added Glover. "We look forward to continuing our dialogue with the administration to make sure that the agencies implementing 30x30 leverage the expertise of our producers and reward them for their good work on the ground."

One of the report's six initial recommendations for the "America the Beautiful" initiative focuses specifically on agricultural producers. NCBA and PLC have been in constant and proactive communication with the administration to make sure the White House understands the vital role ag producers play in safeguarding our natural landscapes. The report includes recommendations to:
    Incentivize voluntary conservation efforts and provide new sources of income for American farmers, ranchers, and foresters
    Improve the effectiveness of relevant USDA conservation programs through the 2023 Farm Bill
    Support the voluntary conservation efforts of private landowners
    Leverage public-private partnerships and voluntary measures to improve targeted populations of wildlife
    Create jobs in rural America that support science-driven stewardship and conservation efforts

NCBA and PLC have long advocated for conservation policy that is based on science and fact, not emotion or political rhetoric. Livestock producers have an excellent story to tell on conservation, climate, and environmental issues:
    Direct emissions from cattle account for only two percent of the United States' overall greenhouse gas emissions.
    Livestock grazing significantly improves soil health, increasing the capacity of grasslands to sequester carbon out of the atmosphere.
    The U.S. cattle and beef industry has had the lowest greenhouse gas emissions intensity in the world since 1996.
    Between 1961 and 2018, the U.S. beef industry reduced emissions by more than 40 percent through continued sustainability efforts and improved resource use.
    Last year, corn going to feed beef cattle represented only 7 percent of all the harvested corn grain in the United States.



NCGA Statement on America the Beautiful Initiative

President Biden released a report today detailing their vision for the “America the Beautiful” initiative. The report contains recommendations outlining what it describes as locally-led, voluntary efforts to conserve 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030.

“We’re pleased to learn of the emphasis on voluntary conservation measures,” said National Corn Growers Association President John Linder. “NCGA has long advocated that voluntary conservation efforts are the best ways to deliver sustainable results on the farm. And we conveyed that to the Administration in a conversation with them about their 30x30 initiative last month. We’re glad they listened and will continue sharing our views with them as this process unfolds,” concluded Linder.



Farmers Union Encouraged that Agriculture is Incorporated into Biden Administration's Conservation Principles

The Biden administration today released a report providing more details on how it plans to meet its earlier goal to conserve at least 30 percent of the nation’s lands and waters by 2030. Entitled “America the Beautiful,” the 22-page document outlines principles that should guide those efforts, several of which pertain to agriculture. More specifically, it indicates that conservation work should recognize and support farmers’ contributions to environmental stewardship as well as include them in conversations about how best to protect our natural resources.

Because farmers and ranchers steward about 44 percent of the United States’ landmass, National Farmers Union (NFU) maintains that it is absolutely essential that agriculture is incorporated into broader conservation endeavors. In a statement today, the organization’s president Rob Larew said he was pleased that the administration’s report takes the sector’s important role into account and that he looks forward to working with them to develop the principles into a fully fleshed-out plan.

“Farmers Union members care deeply about protecting the natural resources that support their livelihoods. When the administration first announced its plans to conserve 30 percent of the nation’s land, however, we had a lot of questions about what that might mean for agriculture. After sharing those concerns with the administration, we are heartened that our feedback was taken seriously and incorporated into the final principles.

“Today’s report understands the valuable work that family farmers are already doing to improve soil, water, and air quality and commits to advancing that work in the future. We are glad to have clarity on the matter and look forward to continued collaboration with the administration to ensure these principles are followed.”



National FFA Organization Continues to Support the Next Generation of Leaders

FFA awarded more than $1.5 million in scholarships to 974 recipients, thanks to the generosity of 309 sponsors and donors.

More than 4,656 students applied online for the scholarships, with many applicants being considered for multiple awards. The scholarships were available to students pursuing two-year or four-year degrees, or vocational certification or specialized training programs. The average recipient had a GPA of 3.77 on a 4.0 scale.

This year marks the 37th year for the scholarship program, which began in 1984 with 16 scholarships offered. Since then, more than $50 million have been awarded in scholarship funds through the National FFA Organization.

The selection process considers the whole student, including FFA involvement, work experience, supervised agricultural experience, community service, leadership skills, academics and financial need.

“We know that our FFA members are the next generation of leaders who will change the world,” said Michele Sullivan, senior manager of local engagement for the organization. “These scholarships are just one more way to support them on the next steps in their educational journeys.”

A list of recipients is available on the FFA scholarship webpage at FFA.org/Scholarships. Recipients are listed first by the states where their high schools are located and then alphabetically by student first name.

Information regarding the 2022 FFA Scholarships program will be available on the scholarship website beginning Nov. 1, 2021.



Ranch Group Warns of Impending Perfect Storm

The live cattle supply chain from which beef is produced is multi-segmented. The largest and most widespread segment – in terms of number of market participants – are cow/calf producers that maintains mother cows and produces new calves each year. The next largest segment by market participants is the yearling segment in which cattle farmers and ranchers prepare yearling-age cattle for the final and smallest segment by volume of producers, the feeding segment. This last segment feeds cattle to harvest weight and sells them directly to the beef packer that produces beef. Though they are few, some ranchers are involved in all segments and sell beef directly to consumers.

For the past six years the cattle market has been erratic, marked by falling cattle prices while wholesale and retail beef prices have climbed to historically high levels.

The brunt of the market’s chronic dysfunction has impacted the smallest segment the most – the feeding segment that sells directly to the beef packer. The larger segments of cow/calf producers and yearling operators, though their prices have also fallen, have been somewhat insulated from the more severe market shocks experienced by cattle feeders.

According to R-CALF USA leaders, that is about to change. Escalating corn prices mean the cost of feeding cattle has increased significantly and cattle feeders who are already suffering severe losses due to the erratic fed cattle market will likely need to buy their inputs at a much lower price to stay in business, by offering less to cow/calf producers and yearling operators for their cattle.

“This could be the perfect storm,” said Kansas rancher and R-CALF USA board member Kyle Hemmert, adding, “The severe market shocks that cattle feeders have been experiencing for years are about to be pushed to cow/calf producers and yearling operators in the form of much lower prices.”

Iowa cattle feeder and R-CALF USA board member Eric Nelson agrees with Hemmert and explains there are two classes of cattle feeders: the majority who sell cattle in the open market or contracts linked to open market prices, and the minority insulated from the open market through some type of cost-sharing arrangements with the beef packers.

“It is the family-sized independent cattle feeder that is most impacted by the depressed market. If cattle feeders with cost-sharing arrangements hold lighter-weight cattle prices above what rising feed costs can support, then we will lose an untold number of independent cattle feeders from our industry. And, if lighter-weight cattle prices are not held up, then cow/calf and yearling operators will experience the full wrath of the dysfunctional market.”

South Dakota cow calf, yearling, cattle feeder and R-CALF USA director Brett Kenzy said the outcome of either of these scenarios could wipe out large segments of the domestic live cattle supply chain. He also explained that it is becoming increasingly difficult for independent cattle feeders to obtain credit without price protection through hedging, which itself is difficult when fed cattle prices persist in moving opposite the direction that market fundamentals would suggest.    

“If we lose more independent cattle feeders because the cost-sharing feedlots hold lighter-weight cattle prices up, then cow/calf producers and yearling operators will soon have too few buyers to maintain a competitive industry. But if lighter-weight cattle prices are not held above what the current dysfunctional market conditions will support, we’ll soon drive many cattle farmers and ranchers out of business.”

“We can’t fix this ourselves,” Kenzy added. “Congress or the Department of Justice must step in to immediately fix the broken fed cattle market because that’s the market that drives our entire industry.”

R-CALF USA is supporting what it calls two triage measures: The swift passage of the Grassley/Tester bill (S.949) that will restore competition in the fed cattle market by requiring packers to purchase at least 50% of their cattle in the open cash market and the reinstatement of mandatory country of origin labeling for beef to restore competition for beef produced from U.S. cattle.



NGFA’s 125th annual convention celebrates ‘Transforming America’s Harvest’

During the National Grain and Feed Association’s (NGFA) 125th annual convention on June 2-4, top agribusiness leaders will celebrate 125 years of “Transforming America’s Harvest” at The Broadmoor, in Colorado Springs, Colo. Virtual attendance and registration is available for the full convention to those unable to attend in person.

“We are excited to have this opportunity to safely gather our association members and industry leaders. We have a tremendous line up of speakers who are business leaders and will address the many opportunities and challenges affecting the grain, feed, processing and export markets,” said NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert. “NGFA has seen many changes in its 125 years. This year will be no different as we offer, for the first time, a virtual attendance option for convention.”

This year’s convention will focus on celebrating the important role NGFA’s member companies perform in transforming the American farmer’s bounty into safe, nutritious, sustainable and affordable human and animal food. Founded in 1896, NGFA has been proud to represent and provide services for grain, feed and related commercial businesses for 125 years. During this 125th annual convention, NGFA will celebrate “Transforming America’s Harvest” with speakers and virtual events that focus on the future of the industry and how to best position it to continue enhancing the growth and economic performance of U.S. agriculture in a global, open market environment.

All attendees gain entry to NGFA’s custom convention platform with access to live speaker presentations, session recordings, Ag Village exhibitor materials and virtual meeting rooms, as well as online networking with NGFA staff and other attendees.

The convention begins with a “Transportation and Technology Open Forum” on June 2 featuring:

•    Charley Moore, senior vice president agriculture sales at Trinity Rail;
•    Martin Oberman, chairman of the U.S. Surface Transportation Board;
•    Jeff Schreiner, CEO of Roger LLC; and
•    Tracy Zea, president and CEO of Waterways Council Inc.

Convention general sessions on June 3-4 will focus on international trade, sustainability and conservation, and the strategic outlook for the grain, feed, processing and export industry and U.S. agriculture. Confirmed speakers include:

•    JoAnn Brouillette, managing partner and president of Demeter LP and chairman of the NGFA Board of Directors;
•    Kathryn Farmer, president and CEO of BNSF;
•    Thomas Halverson, president and CEO of CoBank;
•    David MacLennan, CEO of Cargill; and
•    Jim Perdue, chairman of Perdue Farms, Inc.
•    More speakers to be announced.

For those attending at The Broadmoor, all health and safety precautions to address COVID-19 as mandated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the state of Colorado will be deployed during the convention on June 2-4, 2021, with The Broadmoor and the NGFA enforcing all social distancing, sanitizing and mask-wearing protocols.



Frame the Future: Growth Energy Kicks Off 2021 Executive Leadership Conference

Today, Growth Energy, the nation’s largest ethanol trade association, began its 12th Annual Executive Leadership Conference (ELC), where the top ethanol industry leaders and innovators will participate in panel discussions, networking, and charity events.

Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor kicked off the event with a speech that framed the future of biofuels by addressing three key priorities to drive biofuel demand: building out access to higher blends nationwide, positioning biofuels as a climate solution in policy discussions, and expanding consumer awareness of biofuel, as well as highlighting how Growth Energy is working with the new Biden Administration to make these a priority.

“Our industry was built by individuals who know what it means to control their own destiny – to be the architects of their own fate. Over this last year, we have seen how resilient this community can be in the face of extraordinary adversity. Now, we’re going to show the world what this industry can do when the fight is no longer just about survival, but about framing a better, stronger, low-carbon future fueled by homegrown energy,” Skor said in her opening remarks.

Prior to the official event kick off, dozens of participants attended the second annual Technical Forum, where panelists spoke on low-carbon technologies, protein prospects, and ethanol markets.

During the ELC general session, industry experts will present on topics ranging from global opportunities for expanded ethanol use, E15 activities in the states, the latest in carbon research, and emerging co-product markets. Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker, Joe Theismann, a former quarterback for the Washington Football Team and award-winning ESPN analyst.

Following panel discussions, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan will give a virtual, live address to attendees, followed by a fireside chat with CEO Emily Skor on how the agency will approach the Renewable Fuel Standard and how biofuels can help decarbonize the transportation sector.  

Conference attendees will also hear from U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) and recorded addresses from U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, and a bipartisan list of Members of Congress.



CNH Industrial Reports 1Q Revenues

CNH Industrial reports record first quarter. Consolidated revenues of $7.5 billion (up 37% compared to Q1 2020), net income of $425 million, adjusted diluted EPS of $0.32, and adjusted EBIT of Industrial Activities of $545 million (up $693 million), with strong performance from all segments year over year. Industrial Activities net cash of $0.6 billion at March 31, 2021, with free cash flow seasonally negative by $0.4 billion.

In North America, tractor demand was up 53% for tractors under 140 HP, and up 15% for tractors over 140 HP; combines were up 17%. In Europe, tractor and combine demand were up 20% and 14%, respectively.

Significant increase in demand for tractors and combines was also noted in Rest of World.

Net sales were up 35%, mainly due to higher industry demand, better mix, favorable price realization and reduced destocking actions.

Adjusted EBIT was $399 million, with Adjusted EBIT margin at 13.1%.

The $375 million increase was driven by higher volumes, favorable mix, positive price realization and improved income from non-consolidated joint ventures. Higher raw material and freight costs partially offset favorable product cost and quality performances.