Wednesday February 9 Ag News

2021 Beef Exports Shatter Previous Records; Pork Export Value Also Reaches New High

U.S. beef exports greatly exceeded previous volume and value records in 2021, surpassing $10 billion for the first time, according to year-end data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). Pork exports finished slightly below the record volume reached in 2020 but set a new value record, topping $8 billion for the first time.

Broad-based growth for U.S. beef exports
December beef exports totaled 121,429 metric tons (mt), up 1% from a year ago, while value climbed 33% to $991.8 million – the third largest month on record. These results pushed 2021 volume to 1.44 million mt, up 15% from a year ago and 7% above the previous record set in 2018. Export value soared to $10.58 billion, up 38% from 2020 and shattering the previous record (also from 2018) by 27%.

Beef exports to Korea, Japan and China/Hong Kong each exceeded $2 billion, setting new volume and value records in Korea and China/Hong Kong and a value record in Japan. Exports also set a new value record in Taiwan and reached new heights in Central America, Colombia and Indonesia. Global exports of U.S. beef variety meat also set a new value record of $1.09 billion, up 24% year-over-year.

"The beef export results are truly remarkable, especially considering the COVID-related obstacles in the global foodservice sector and all the supply-side and logistical challenges faced by the U.S. industry," said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. "Obviously our large Asian markets accounted for much of the growth, but it really takes broad-based global demand to reach these impressive levels. So this success story is not just about Korea, Japan and China – but also a strong performance in Taiwan, excellent growth in Central and South America and a rebound in Mexico and Southeast Asia."

Surging pork exports to Mexico and other key markets fuel new value record
Pork exports trended lower in December, falling 17% from a year ago to 215,872 mt, valued at $604.3 million (down 12%). For 2021, export volume was 2.92 million mt, down 2% from the 2020 record, but export value still climbed 5% to a record $8.11 billion.

Record-large pork exports to Mexico, Central America, the Dominican Republic, Colombia and the Philippines helped offset a decline in demand from China in 2021. Exports also increased to Japan and South Korea, including larger volumes of chilled pork. Global exports of U.S. pork variety meat set a new value record of $1.24 billion, up 19% year-over-year.

"Entering last year, we knew it would be a daunting task to match the record level of pork exports reached in 2020 because of the recovery in China's swine herd and its rising domestic pork production," Halstrom said. "But the U.S. is less dependent on China than other major pork exporters, and this is definitely reflected in the 2021 results. Even with shipments to China falling nearly 30%, total U.S. exports posted a very strong performance thanks to outstanding growth in Latin America and other key markets."

Lamb exports end 2021 on high note
December exports of U.S. lamb reached $2.49 million – the highest monthly value in more than seven years. For 2021, lamb exports increased 9% to 14,053 mt, valued at $20.45 million (up 19%). While volume growth was driven primarily by lamb variety meat exports to Mexico, lamb muscle cut exports rebounded to the Caribbean – achieving impressive growth in the Dominican Republic and increasing to Bermuda, the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago and Turks and Caicos.



Lawmakers urged to take next step in supporting local meat processors

With the industry still struggling to regain its footing, Center for Rural Affairs staff and other supporters urged Nebraska lawmakers to provide funding for a program designed to assist local independent meat processors.

Legislative Bill (LB) 755, introduced by Sen. Tom Brandt, seeks $10 million in State Recovery Funds from the federal American Rescue Plan Act to fund the Independent Processor Assistance Program (IPAP), which was established last year with the unanimous passage of LB 324.

Industry disruptions began after work paused at regional packing plants at the start of the pandemic, causing large-scale beef and pork producers to turn to local processors to fill the void.

“These small business owners have done everything they can to catch up,” Center Policy Director Johnathan Hladik said in testimony before the Legislature’s Appropriations Committee Wednesday afternoon. “Garages have become freezer units and outdated equipment has been unpacked and put to use.”
 
As part of the IPAP, approved applicants can receive financial assistance for modification or construction of buildings; packaging, processing, and storage equipment; technology to improve logistics or enable e-commerce; and workforce training.

Drawing from data prepared by the University of Nebraska’s Department of Animal Science, Hladik estimated about 80 businesses would qualify for assistance. The Center recently spoke with 41 of them, 38 of which shared plans to use the program.

“Funding would allow each locker to process anywhere from 3 to 30 more beef per week and an additional 8 to 10 hogs,” Hladik said. “We are confident that a large number of the remaining 40 or so businesses we have not yet contacted are similarly positioned.”

During their testimony, producers and processors from across the state shared the challenges they face scheduling locker dates. Many said the lockers they have used previously don’t have openings for the rest of the year and some are even booked into 2023. Sen. Brandt said oftentimes, producers have to schedule locker dates before an animal is even born.

Ace VanDeWalle, who operates the Ord Locker in Ord, also spoke on behalf of the Nebraska Association of Meat Processors (NAMP), of which he serves as vice president.

“NAMP supports the state setting up a program to help the small and very small meat processors currently operating,” he said. “Grant money can be used by small meat processing facilities to increase capacity and efficiency, create jobs and benefit local economies and local producers in multiple ways.”

VanDeWalle said most small processors in the state are currently operating at maximum animal processing capacity. He said grant funding used to renovate current facilities or increase capacity will directly impact the direct to consumer market positions for farmers and ranchers that need more processing appointments, as well as create additional jobs at the local level and increase revenue generated across the state.

For Aunbrea Zeleny, whose family operates the Oakland Processing Plant in Oakland, the last three years have been a blur as employees work overtime to keep up with demand. Having been stretched to the limit in their current facility built in the 1960s, Zeleny said they are in the process of building a new facility, but it hasn’t come without its challenges. However, the family remains committed.  

“We are hoping to continue doing what we do, but on a bigger scale and serve more people and we need the financing to do so,” she said.

Bill Alward, who operates Little Mountain Ranch & Garden near Fort Calhoun, said the IPAP would be an incremental step in strengthening food security.

“LB 755 will make an investment in not only meat processors but also in farmers like me who want to bring people closer to their food source,” he said.

At least 18 other states have used federal relief dollars to create a similar program, including Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and South Dakota. Federal programs were also established, but they have been disappointing, Hladik said, as they are not available to USDA-inspected facilities or those that do not want to be USDA inspected.



Nebraska Women in Agriculture Conference offering continuing education credits for veterinary, crop advisor professionals

The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program will offer continuing education credits for veterinary medicine professionals and certified crop advisors during its annual conference, Feb. 24 and 25 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center, 110 2nd Ave., in Kearney.

The two-day conference will feature over 20 workshop sessions where attendees will learn how to better manage risk, improve their farms and ranches and become more successful operators and business partners. Four keynote speakers will address the conference over both days.

Two conference workshops have been approved for veterinarians or veterinary technicians licensed in Nebraska to receive credits: “Nutritional Management of the Disadvantaged Newborn Calf” and “Calving College 101.”

The conference will also host 11 workshops that have been approved for Certified Crop Advisor Continuing Education Credits.

Registration and workshop details are available at https://wia.unl.edu/conference. The registration fee is $85 for a single day or $175 for both days.

“We are excited to be hosting the conference in person this year,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program. “While we are thankful that we could meet online last year, it just can’t replace the face-to-face interaction that makes this conference so great.”

Since 1985, Nebraska Extension’s Women in Agriculture program has sought to provide educational opportunities for all Nebraska women interested in developing agricultural management skills, through unbiased, research-based education. The program provides leadership, learning experiences, support and networking avenues to empower women to compete and survive in this challenging and complex industry.



Soil & Water Commissioner Running for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture

John Norwood, a Soil & Water Commissioner for Iowa's capital county who describes himself as a "Tip O'Neill-style Democrat," is running for Iowa Secretary of Agriculture in this year's election.  

"As Secretary, I will protect urban and rural consumers, expand economic opportunities around diversified food and agricultural production, and advocate for the needs of ALL food, grain, and livestock producers.  My first priority will be to build urban and rural support around agriculture systems that are built to last – including strengthening the resiliency of our 20+ million acres of corn and bean ground. We must have healthy soil, clean air, swimmable/fishable waters and safe drinking water for everyone."

Norwood also wants to create a modern vision for Iowa for its highly productive but "unbalanced" agricultural system. He envisions Iowa being a world-class model for community-based regenerative agriculture in the U.S. with new opportunities for first generation farmers, especially farmers of color.

"Farming can be reimagined to include small acreages, indoor farms, and planned 'farm-parks' with infrastructure for processing, packaging and distribution – 80 million live within a day's drive of Iowa. I plan to work at the county level, at the statehouse, and Washington DC, along with international partners to bring a "big tent" perspective to the role of Secretary of Agriculture. I want to create new opportunities for Iowa while finding actionable and timely solutions to the economic, environmental, system risks and health issues we face."

Norwood's professional background includes water utility experience in Boston, as well as experience leading an agricultural land trust in grape, nut, and cattle ranching in California where he worked closely with growers, ranchers, city, and county planners to increase the base of irrigated ag while protecting farmland from development. He has also worked in farm-based renewable energy, specialty feeds, and marketing Iowa grown local foods.

Norwood is a small business owner, and serves as a business advisor and board director. He travels the state regularly to work with business owners in agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and related industries.

"If elected, I will represent the voices of the many people who have told me they want a balanced vision for Iowa that includes the thoughtful use of state and federal monies to increase access to land and capital while we build a resilient, enduring Iowa for everyone."

Norwood has an MBA and master's degree from Yale's Forestry School and a bachelor's degree from Williams College in Massachusetts. For the past twenty years, he and his family have resided in West Des Moines. For more info: www.Norwood4Iowa.com.



Winners of Iowa Pork Congress Research Poster Contest Named
    
The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) research committee and the Iowa Pork Industry Center (IPIC) have announced the winners of a research poster competition, organized by the two groups and sponsored by Cargill. The winning posters included swine-related research on gene editing, sperm fertility, and airborne virus transmission.    

The new event took place during the 2022 Iowa Pork Congress, in Des Moines the last week of January. Participants were students at Iowa State University (ISU) in Ames who are studying a variety of areas that impact pork production.

The first-place award for $1,000 went to Blythe Schultz, a doctoral student in animal science. Along with several collaborators, he used gene editing to increase naturally occurring growth hormone in pigs, helping the pigs gain weight more efficiently. According to Schultz, pig farmers can meet the growing demand for high-quality pork in a more sustainable manner.

“They would decrease the environmental footprint because the animals would grow faster and bigger in the same amount of time,” said Schultz, of Santa Fe, Texas.

Alexandra “Alex” Keller won the $500 second-place prize for a study that explored artificial intelligence methods to more quickly and accurately detect the most fertile sperm from boar studs (male pigs kept for breeding).

In addition to increased conception and performance rates, Keller noted the findings could allow farmers to spread desired genetics across more sows—female pigs—by decreasing the sperm dose during artificial insemination, a popular method of breeding swine.

A native of Clarion, Keller is in her first semester as an animal science doctoral student focused on genetics and genomics. She worked with Dr. Karl Kerns, an assistant professor in ISU’s Department of Animal Science, who specializes in reproductive physiology.

Peiyang Li, a first-year doctoral student in ISU’s Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, received third place and $500. He, along with nine others, are named on the research that determined certain types of ultraviolet (UV) light can effectively kill porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) in fast-moving air.

The virus has become one of the largest negative economic impacts on the swine industry, and can travel a few miles by air and still be infectious, according to Li. His team is currently in talks with a major UV manufacturer, to take the technology out of the lab and test it in a farm-scale application.

“We’re excited about the future of UV in agriculture applications,” said Li, from the province of Shandong in China.

Another round of judging was determined by Iowa Pork Congress attendees. The Producer’s Choice winner was Will Taylor, Flora, Ind., an animal science graduate student. He received $500 from IPPA, along with swag items. Placing second and third, respectively, were Erika Johnson, Waukon, an animal science graduate student concentrating on animal physiology, and Schultz, the overall contest winner; they each received $20 in pork coupons and IPPA swag items.

A total of 12 research projects were in the contest. The posters were displayed at the IPIC booth during both days of the Iowa Pork Congress trade show. Poster presenters were available at the booth for a few hours during judging, for anyone to stop and ask questions.

Judges for the contest included Mike Paustian, a past IPPA president; Brett Kaysen, senior vice president of sustainability at the National Pork Board; and Brent Frederick of Cargill.

Other participants in the contest were:
    McKenna Brinning, Keota, veterinary medicine;
    Ezra Butcher, De Soto, Mo., economics;
    Daniel Moraes, Ames; Meredith Petersen, Mason City; Gaurav Rawal, Ames; Emiline Sundman, Windham, N.H.; and Jinhui Zhu, province of Anhui in China, all students in ISU’s Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine.



Soy and Beef Make a Perfect Pairing

          Explore the romance of dinners that celebrate beef and soy on one plate. You’ll discover how well beef and soyfoods such as tofu complement each other. Recently, The Soyfoods Council and Iowa Beef Industry Council held an Iowa Restaurant Association recipe contest event. The winning restaurant chefs demonstrated a wealth of ways to pair beef and soy. Winners include Chef Charles Severson, Chef Katarina Louk, Chef David Perez and Chef Jonathan Cook.

            Iowa Chef Charles Severson of Honey Creek Resort in Moravia created a match-making beef and tofu recipe featuring Iowa beef with another Iowa-grown specialty—soy. Beef with Agedashi Marinated Tofu and Glazed Tofu Scallops is complemented by pickled daikon salad. Chef Severson’s Japanese-inspired recipe marries flavors and textures that create a memorable meal made with regional ingredients.

            Agedashi tofu is typically served with a broth of soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine) and dashi. Classic agedashi tofu is briefly deep-fried and served with a sauce. The resulting texture—lightly crisp tofu on the outside and smooth on the inside—combines well with the meaty texture of beef. Tofu is a versatile, cholesterol-free soyfood that contains approximately 8 grams of plant protein per serving.

            Other contest winners drew on global flavors as well. Chef Katarina Louk of Django in Des Moines created Roasted Tri-Tip Beef and Sweet Potatoes with Sauce Robert, Braised Red Cabbage and Tofu Bacon Crumbles. Her tofu bacon crumbles are made by marinating firm tofu chunks overnight in a mixture of liquid smoke and maple syrup, seasoned with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper and salt. The marinated tofu is broken into crumbles and sautéed in soybean oil until crispy.

            Chef David Perez of Urban Cellar and Wine Bar in West Des Moines and Jonathan Cook of Iowa Events Center in Des Moines both headed south-of-the-border for beef and soy flavor inspirations. Chef David Perez prepared Birria Tacos with Tofu Tortillas, Tofu Avocado Crema and Pickled Red Onions. The beef taco filling is made with boneless beef tri-tip. The tofu tortillas incorporate a 12-ounce package soft silken tofu, two cups of masa harina (corn flour), one cup of hot water and a pinch of kosher salt.

            Chef Jonathan Cook of Iowa Events Center in Des Moines made Beef and Soy Birria Tacos that included tofu cheese made in a food dehydrator with extra firm tofu, nutritional yeast and kosher salt. The tacos were accompanied by a side of cabbage and relish salad with tofu croutons. Tofu croutons are made by marinating extra firm tofu with cilantro, lime juice and spices. The marinated cubes are then sprinkled with cornstarch and sauteed in soybean oil until golden and crispy.

            For other beef-compatible soyfoods recipe ideas, visit The Soyfoods Council website at www.thesoyfoodscouncil.com. You’ll also find soy cooking tips and information about soyfoods and health.



Confirmation of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Indiana

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig issued the following statement today after the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a commercial turkey flock in Indiana. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers the risk to the general public from HPAI H5 infections to be low. However, HPAI H5 does have the potential to spread among commercial, backyard and wild bird populations, posing a risk to animal health.

“This confirmation of high path avian influenza in a commercial turkey flock in Indiana highlights the foreign animal disease risks facing our poultry producers. We appreciate the quick action of the Indiana Board of Animal Health and USDA in identifying and confirming the disease and immediately activating response and surveillance protocols.

“Our team at the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship recognizes the threat HPAI and other foreign animal diseases pose to Iowa agriculture. We do not have any known connections to the infected flock and are closely monitoring imports of poultry and poultry products into Iowa from Indiana. We will continue working with USDA, livestock producers and other stakeholders to develop, test and strengthen our foreign animal disease preparedness and response plans.

“Iowa’s livestock producers should remain diligent in reviewing and evaluating their farm’s biosecurity protocols. Producers should monitor their animals closely and contact their veterinarian and state or federal animal health officials immediately if a sick animal or clinical signs consistent with HPAI is observed.”



Weekly Ethanol Production for 2/4/2022

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending February 4, ethanol production scaled back by 47,000 barrels per day (b/d), or 4.5%, to an eighteen-week low of 994,000 b/d, equivalent to 41.75 million gallons daily. Production was 6.1% more than the same week last year, which was affected by the pandemic, but 3.8% less than the same week two years ago. The four-week average ethanol production volume decreased 0.3% to 1.031 million b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.81 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks decreased 4.1% to 24.8 million barrels after a five-week build. Stocks were 4.2% higher than a year ago and 1.8% more than the same week two years ago. Inventories thinned across all regions.
                                                                                                              
The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, jumped 10.9% to 9.13 million b/d (139.90 bg annualized). Gasoline demand registered 16.2% higher than a year ago and 4.6% more than the same week two years ago.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol remained level with the prior week at 819,000 b/d, equivalent to 12.56 bg annualized. Net inputs were 4.3% more than a year ago but 6.2% less than the same week two years ago.

There were zero imports of ethanol recorded for the second consecutive week. (Weekly export data for ethanol is not reported simultaneously; the latest export data is as of December 2021.)



Growth Energy to White House: “Maximize Biofuels to Ease the Pain at the Pump”

Yesterday, Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor sent a letter to President Biden, urging him to turn to higher biofuel blends to combat high gas prices. At a February 4th press conference, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said that the administration “will continue to look at options that can be done to lower gas prices for the American people,” and Skor urged the president to “maximize biofuels to ease the pain at the pump” by working with his administration to restore the year-round sale of E15.  

“Biofuels like ethanol should be an essential part of our nation’s solution to reduce our dependence on foreign oil while saving American drivers money along the way, reducing emissions, and supporting rural economies,” wrote Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “However, without immediate action to keep lower cost, lower emission biofuels available year-round, like fuel with 15 percent ethanol (E15), these benefits will be in jeopardy as summer travel begins.”  

Skor continued, stating that “During a time of high gasoline prices, it is more important than ever that higher blends of biofuels be made available to consumers year-round. Your administration and EPA must encourage the use of E15 and higher blends of ethanol by allowing for the year-round sale of these fuels. By removing remaining regulatory hurdles and providing greater access to E15, you can help keep fuel prices in check for American consumers and ease concerns about fuel supply.”

Available at more than 2,500 gas stations across 31 states, E15 is approved for more than 96 percent of light duty vehicles on the road and sells for upwards of $0.10 less per gallon compared to conventional gasoline.



NCGA President Applauds EPA for Attempt to End RFS Waiver Abuse, Calls on Agency to Commit to Timely Release of Strong RFS Volume Standards

The National Corn Growers Association submitted comments this week applauding the Environmental Protection Agency’s efforts to rein in exemptions provided to small oil refineries while calling on the agency to commit to the timely implementation of strong blending requirements under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS).

“The RFS is a successful energy and economic policy for consumers, our environment and for farmers,” Iowa farmer and NCGA President Chris Edgington said. “A return to consistent and timely RFS administration in 2022 is key to maximizing carbon and pollutant reductions, expanding our energy supply to lower consumer costs, and supporting rural economic growth.”

Edgington indicated in his comments that NCGA strongly supports the proposed 2022 RFS volumes, which include an implied volume of 15 billion gallons for conventional renewable fuel and an increase in total renewable fuel, while expressing opposition to proposed retroactive reductions from final 2020 volumes.

“EPA’s proposal offers the promise of renewable fuel growth and a return to RFS integrity in 2022, but the proposed reconsideration of 2020 volumes would undermine that progress, rewarding the use of more oil in place of clean renewables,” Edgington said. “Corn growers stand ready to help EPA achieve greater emission reductions and cleaner air through use of more renewable, sustainable, affordable ethanol.”

In a separate set of comments submitted to EPA this week, Edgington expressed appreciation for EPA’s proposal to change agency interpretation of the Clean Air Act’s small refinery provisions, applying that interpretation to deny pending small refinery exemption petitions under the RFS.

In recent years, EPA had significantly increased the number of refineries granted RFS exemptions.

In early 2020, the U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, following a legal challenge from NCGA and ethanol and agriculture partners, determined EPA had previously exceeded agency authority by extending exemptions for small refineries based on economic factors other than RFS compliance.

“EPA’s proposal and denial of pending waivers offer a path forward,” Edgington said. “NCGA urges EPA to finalize this proposal without delay to close the chapter on RFS waiver abuse.”



New RFA Reports Summarize 2021 Ethanol, Distillers Grains Trade

According to a pair of new statistical reports released today by the Renewable Fuels Association, U.S. exports of ethanol and distillers grains showed resilience in 2021 as the global economy continued to confront the COVID pandemic and supply chain challenges.

The annual reports—now in their eighth year—provide industry advocates, policymakers, news media and the general public with the latest information on the important role U.S. ethanol and distillers grains play on the world stage.

“As these reports show, exports continue to represent a  critically important market opportunity for U.S. ethanol producers,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “Our industry’s export sales—which totaled nearly $6 billion in value—made a substantially positive contribution to the nation’s trade balance in 2021 and boosted farm income in rural communities across the heartland. As nations around the world embrace ethanol as a low-cost solution for improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions, RFA continues to work with our allies to pursue and protect free and fair trade opportunities.”
 
The ethanol trade summary report shows that 1.24 billion gallons were exported in 2021, representing 8.3 percent of total U.S. ethanol production. While this is 5 percent lower than 2020, it remains the fifth-largest export volume in history and, at $2.77 billion, the value of those exports was the second-highest on record.

U.S. ethanol was shipped to 88 countries on all six inhabited continents. Canada remained the top export destination, taking in 30 percent of U.S. ethanol exports in 2021, followed by India and South Korea. Overall exports fell mainly as a result of lower shipments to Brazil, which has instituted a punitive tariff on imports from the United States. Exports to that country were 59 percent below 2020 levels, when it ranked as the second-leading market for U.S. ethanol exports. The United States imported only 58 million gallons of ethanol, a five-year low and the second-lowest total in the last 10 years. Accordingly, the U.S. remained a net exporter by a wide margin in 2021.

The second trade summary report released today covers co-product exports, including distillers grains, a high-protein feed ingredient for livestock and poultry. Distillers grains exports totaled 11.6 million metric tons in 2021, a slight improvement over 2020 and the third-largest annual volume on record. This represents 36 percent of U.S. distillers grains production.

Distillers grains were exported to more than 50 countries. Mexico remained the top destination for U.S. distillers grains, representing 21 percent of total shipments, followed by Vietnam and South Korea. U.S. distillers grains exports set a record in 2021 with an aggregate value of $3 billion.



Now Accepting Applications for Valent, ASA

The American Soybean Association (ASA) is now accepting applications for the Valent Ag Voices of the Future program, which will be held July 11-14, 2022, 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 by July 11 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 2022 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, Nov. 10-13, 2022, 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 9. 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 11-14, 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.



National Institute for Animal Agriculture Opens Registration for the 2022 Annual Conference

The National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) has opened registration for the 2022 Annual Conference in Kansas City, Missouri from April 20-22. Join fellow animal agriculture leaders at the opening reception for a chef-guided meal that explores the effects genetics, feed ingredients, production practices, and more have on the farm-to-table eating experience. Space is limited to the first 50 registrants.   

Whether it’s securing protein for all, sustainably producing protein, or innovatively meeting the needs of many, there is never a shortage of critical topics to address. The 2022 NIAA Annual Conference, Producing Protein for a Food Insecure & Uncertain World - Leading Food Security, Sustainable Production, and Innovation, will convene leaders in animal agriculture as we explore, discuss, and develop solutions to industry challenges.

“Animal agriculture leaders are prepared to meet the needs of a changing world. Transparency is increasingly important while earning and maintaining consumer trust is an ongoing priority,” said Chelsea Good, Livestock Marketing Association, NIAA board member, and Annual Conference planning committee member.

Annual Conference will feature dynamic keynote speakers as we seek collaboration and solutions with our colleagues from across the food system. Panelists will include experts in disruptive innovation, food security, animal agriculture policy, sustainable production, industry collaboration and more. Confirmed speakers, panelists and moderators include:
    Diana Kander, JD – Kansas City native, keynote speaker, New York Times best-selling author and innovation expert
    Lamar Steiger – ranch management consultant, board member of FoodCap New Zealand, and trusted beef innovation advisor to Wal-Mart and ABS Global
    Janette Barnard, MBA – Merck Animal Health, Prime Futures
    Nevil Speer, PhD – Where Food Comes From, Inc.
    Kelly Loganbill – Midan Marketing
    Chelsea Good, JD – Livestock Marketing Association

To register, view the full agenda and reserve a room at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown for the 2022 Annual Convention, please visit www.AnimalAgriculture.org. Virtual attendance is an option for those unable to travel. Early bird rates are active through March 1, 2022.



Proposed Clean Water Rule Will Hurt Small Businesses

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy’s comments to EPA regarding the impact of a new Waters of the U.S. Rule.

“We were told by the Biden administration that a new clean water rule would not affect small businesses, but comments from the Small Business Administration provide even more proof that the claim is not true. SBA confirmed what farmers and ranchers concluded as well – the proposed rule creates government overreach and will have significant economic impact on farms and other family businesses.

“Farmers and ranchers share the goal of protecting the resources we rely on to grow food for America’s families, but those rules should be clear and easy to understand. We had that with the Navigable Waters Protection Rule. We urge EPA to listen to their colleagues at the Small Business Administration and the people who will be directly affected; suspend your plans to write a new WOTUS rule.”



Hesston by Massey Ferguson® Marks 75th Anniversary

AGCO Corporation, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of agricultural machinery and precision ag technology, celebrates the 75th anniversary of Hesston by Massey Ferguson® in 2022. The innovative equipment manufacturer began in 1947 when a farmer and manufacturer came together to solve harvesting inefficiencies. Since then, the company has kept producers at the heart of every user-friendly, highly productive product design it has produced. As Hesston by Massey Ferguson reflects on 75 years in business, the company continues to build on its legacy of innovation, promising revolutionary new products in 2022 and beyond.

Farmer-Focused Innovation
Hesston Machine & Manufacturing was founded in Hesston, Kansas, in 1947 by Lyle Yost and Adin Holdemann. Yost, a farmer and contractor, recognized inefficiencies unloading grain from combine grain tanks. Working with Holdemann, a manufacturer, he developed a new method based on an unloading auger that increased productivity and safety for this important task. The company continued to produce innovative non-powered implements that revolutionized grain harvesting. In 1955, the company entered the hay industry with the first commercially available self-propelled windrower — the Hesston Model 100, which increased productivity and hay quality and encouraged the company to specialize in hay harvesting equipment. Today, Hesston by Massey Ferguson is recognized across North America as an innovative leader in hay equipment manufacturing.

“Since its inception, Hesston by Massey Ferguson has sought to provide the straightforward and dependable solutions that address the everyday needs of farmers,” said Matt LeCroy, marketing director, Hay and Forage North America for Hesston by Massey Ferguson. “As a specialized hay equipment manufacturer, we have cultivated a deep understanding of the hay industry and hay producers, allowing us to lead the way with the right products at the right time.”

Revolutionary Legacy
Over the last 75 years, Hesston by Massey Ferguson has introduced many revolutionary products that improved hay production and quality for both commercial and traditional operations. Important developments in this lineage include:
    1970, introduction of the StackHand 60, the world’s first loose hay stacker.
    1976, introduction of the 5400 and 5800 large round balers, turning hay production into a one-man operation.
    1978, introduction of the Hesston 4800, the world’s first large square baler, producing 4-by-4-foot square bales that minimized dry matter loss and increased hay production efficiency.
    2007, introduction of the MF 2100 Series common platform large baler, which brought the original large square baler into the modern era.

“By focusing on the farmer in the field, Hesston by Massey Ferguson has remained at the forefront of the hay industry for 75 years and promises tremendous value for customers in the decades to come,” LeCroy said. “To date, the company holds more hay inspired patents than any other manufacturer.”

Looking to the Future
The facility in Hesston, Kansas, continues to manufacture some of the most cutting-edge hay equipment in North America, including the company’s very popular windrowers, balers, and combines. An additional investment of $45 million in 2013 added a new state-of-the-art paint facility.

“We are proud to be a part of 75 years of straightforward, dependable equipment manufacturing and a cornerstone in the Hesston, Kansas, community,” said Seth Beytien, director, supply chain, plant lead for Hesston by Massey Ferguson. “We look forward to the next 75 years of farmer-focused innovation as North America’s leading hay equipment manufacturer.”

Today the Hesston, Kansas, facility is AGCO’s number one location in North America for manufacturing implements and combine harvesters. Hesston by Massey Ferguson continues a tradition of innovative engineering, producing revolutionary and timely hay equipment, including the release of the new WR Series self-propelled windrower in 2022.



CNH Industrial Reports Higher Sales, Earnings

CHH Industrial reports net sales of Industrial Activities of $31,622 million, up 30% with increases in all segments due to continued strong industry demand and price realization.

Adjusted EBIT of Industrial Activities of $2,114 million ($552 million in 2020), with Agriculture adjusted EBIT of $1,810 million and adjusted EBIT margin of 12.3% in the year. Adjusted EBIT increased by $391 million for Commercial and Specialty Vehicles and $274 million for Construction. Powertrain adjusted EBIT of $256 million ($233 million in 2020).

Adjusted net income of $1,880 million, with adjusted diluted earnings per share of $1.35 (adjusted net income of $437 million and adjusted diluted earnings per share of $0.28 in 2020).

Reported income tax expense of $342 million, which includes a $161 million tax benefit related to recognizing certain deferred tax assets. Adjusted effective tax rate (adjusted ETR) of 23%, which reflects a favorable geographic mix of pre-tax earnings.

Free cash flow of Industrial Activities was positive $1.8 billion due to the strong operating performance. Total Debt of $23.7 billion at December 31, 2021 ($26.1 billion at December 31, 2020). Industrial Activities net cash position at $0.3 billion, a decrease of $0.5 billion from December 31, 2020, primarily due to the cash-out for the acquisition of 100% interest in Raven ($2,246 million) and 90% interest in Sampierana ($86 million).

Available liquidity at $12.1 billion as of December 31, 2021.



Zoetis Celebrates Producers With Calving Season Photo Sweepstakes

This spring, Zoetis wants to reward cow/calf producers for their relentless hard work and dedication to their herd. Cattle producers are encouraged to submit their best calving season photos to the company’s Calving Season Sweepstakes for a chance to win daily prizes to help power through the calving season.

Zoetis is asking cow/calf producers to enter the sweepstakes at CalvingSeason.com by submitting pictures of their calves. All calving photos are welcome, whether it’s late-night shots from the barn, kids helping with the new animals, cows with baby calves, or producers simply caring for their calves by bottle-feeding or wrapping them in blankets.

Every qualifying photo submitted to CalvingSeason.com from January 31 through April 21, 2022, will earn entry into the sweepstakes. There is a limit of one photo submission per day during the sweepstakes. Zoetis will draw daily winners to receive a prize package consisting of a Zoetis-branded cooler full of helpful things to get through calving season, with an approximate retail value of nearly $200.

Zoetis encourages cow/calf producers to show their pride beyond this sweepstakes too. Use the hashtag #CalvingSeason to post photos on all social media channels and share the success that comes with hard work.