Tuesday July 26 Ag News

STUDY SHOWS NEBRASKA’S ETHANOL INDUSTRY CONTINUES TO EXPAND

The Nebraska ethanol industry produced over 2.25 billion gallons in 2019, resulting in a value of production for ethanol and co-products of greater than $4.04 billion, according to a new University of Nebraska–Lincoln study estimating the industry’s impact in 2018 and 2019. The overall economic impact of the Nebraska ethanol industry is over $4.5 billion.

Gallons produced and value of production in 2019 both increased over 2017, the year of the previous report, when the state produced over 2.07 billion gallons of ethanol, valued at $3.76 billion.

“Nebraska’s ethanol industry remains an important market in Nebraska, trailing only corn and cattle,” said Kate Brooks, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics and a co-author of the study. “While the industry experienced weakened ethanol prices in 2018 and 2019, it has shown resilience through continued expansion in total capacity and diversification of co-products.”

According to the study, Nebraska continues to rank as the second-largest ethanol-producing state in the nation. The overall value of ethanol and ethanol co-products averages 64% of corn production, 33% of cattle production and 131% of soybean production, making ethanol the third-largest agricultural industry in the state.

From 2010 to 2014, the ethanol industry employed 1,301 full-time employees, rising to 1,453 employees from 2015-2017. These jobs led to primary employee income of $71 million from 2010 to 2014 and $97 million from 2015 to 2017. In 2018 and 2019, the industry employed 1,460 full-time equivalents, leading to a labor income of $125 million and $13 million in indirect business taxes. Proprietors’ income tells a different story, as producer income averaged $34 million from 2010 to 2014 and only $11 million annually from 2015 to 2017, which were primarily caused by lower prices. The estimated proprietors’ income for 2018 to 2019 was $12 million.

“Comparing the two most recent reports shows a trend toward stability in ethanol production,” Brooks said, noting that the latest data shows growth in ethanol co-product markets, for products like dried, wet and modified distillers’ grains and corn oil. The industry continues to expand beyond these traditional co-products, taking advantage of new market opportunities.

Almost all of Nebraska’s ethanol and about half the state’s dried distillers’ grain and corn oil production are exported, meaning most production results in a net positive impact for the state. The sales outside of Nebraska represent a direct economic impact, bringing new money into Nebraska’s economy.

The study’s results also suggest a positive impact on local corn cash prices, with an average increase of about 21.3 cents per bushel in the immediate areas near ethanol production facilities. A grower near an ethanol facility producing 220 bushels of corn per acre could receive, on average, an additional $46.86 per acre. Producers farther from ethanol plants face higher transportation costs and would net a smaller amount.

The report was produced by the Department of Agricultural Economics at Nebraska, in partnership with the Nebraska Ethanol Board. It is available at https://agecon.unl.edu/ethanolimpact.



SUMMER HEAT AND FORAGE GROWTH
– Jerry Volesky, NE Extension Forage & Range Specialist
 
As most of the state is experiencing unusually hot temperatures this summer, we need to consider how these temperatures affect our pasture and forage plants.
 
The two primary plant classifications are warm-season and cool-season and this is based on basic plant physiology and their specific photosynthetic pathway.  Practically speaking, and as their names suggest, every plant species has a specific temperature range in which it maintains growth.
 
When it gets hot, 90 plus degrees, cool-season plants such as bromegrass, orchardgrass, fescues, needlegrasses, and wheatgrasses all struggle and will have a very slow growth rate, even if there is plenty of moisture.  With the dry conditions this summer, these cool-season grasses have likely completely stop growth and have gone into a summer dormant state.
 
Warm-season grasses are just the opposite.  Millet, sudangrass, sorghums, and our native bluestems, gramas, switchgrass, and other warm-season grasses thrive when the temperature is around 90 degrees.  Their metabolism runs at peak efficiency when it is hot so they grow rapidly while maintaining reasonable forage quality and good root growth.  With drought conditions, also be aware of the potential for the seeded summer annual grasses to accumulate nitrates.
 
As you graze or hay, be aware of the stress weather is putting on your forage.  When it’s too hot, allow plants a longer recovery period before the next grazing.  And don’t expect high feed values or good animal gains when the nutritional goodies are burned right out of the plants.
 
Proper expectations and management adjustments can limit the stress from hot weather.   



Ricketts Invites Nebraskans to Register for the 2022 Ag & Economic Development Summit

Governor Pete Ricketts, the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED), and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) encourage Nebraskans to register for the Governor’s Ag and Economic Development Summit on Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at the Younes Conference Center in Kearney.

Registration for the event is now open at govsummit.nebraska.gov.  U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Daniel J. Kritenbrink, will be the keynote speaker.

“Nebraska is successfully creating jobs and attracting investment,” said Gov. Ricketts.  “This year’s Summit will convene leaders from across the state to discuss how to build on this positive momentum.  Attending the Summit is a great way to make connections with fellow Nebraskans who play key roles in our state’s growth.  We look forward to hosting Assistant Secretary of State Kritenbrink and hearing his insights on opportunities to grow Nebraska through international trade.”

As the state’s premier economic development forum, the Summit includes an agricultural focus, with co-sponsor NDA hosting a number of industry-related sessions.  Discussion tracks will include overcoming supply chain challenges, growing ag-related exports, supporting small businesses, workforce development, and much more.

“Through the years, Nebraskans working in agriculture have built a reputation for producing world-class crops, livestock, feed, fuel, equipment, and ag technology,” said NDA Director Steve Wellman.  “The Governor’s Ag and Economic Development Summit gives producers and agri-business leaders in Nebraska an opportunity to facilitate new partnerships and discuss how to drive economic growth in our state’s number one industry.”

Assistant Secretary of State Kritenbrink is scheduled to provide remarks during lunch.  Kritenbrink grew up on a farm near Ashland and graduated from the University of Nebraska-Kearney.  He served as U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam from 2017 to 2021 after being appointed by President Donald Trump.

“We are excited to have Assistant Secretary of State Kritenbrink join us this year to share his insights on opportunities to grow Nebraska’s brand internationally,” said DED Director Anthony L. Goins.  “We hope everyone who shares our mutual vision to grow Nebraska will join Governor Ricketts and us in Kearney for this year’s Summit.”  

The Summit will officially kick off on the evening of Tuesday, August 9th, with a reception and banquet hosted by the Nebraska Diplomats and NetChoice.  During that event, numerous Diplomats and Nebraska businesses will be recognized for their contributions to the state’s economic success over the previous year.

Registration for the Diplomat Banquet and Summit can be accessed at govsummit.nebraska.gov.  A full Summit agenda is also available through the website.  For questions, contact Lori Shaal at lori.shaal@nebraska.gov or 402-471-3780.



Nebraska soybean farmer participates in Indonesia conference

The future of soy in Southeast Asia is a hot topic and was the focus of the recent annual Asia Soy Excellence and Protein Summit held June 21-22 in Bali, Indonesia held and organized by USSEC and U.S. Soy industry partners.

Stakeholders from regional soy food and beverage industries convened for the annual 2-day event along with senior food science and nutrition managers, leaders in R&D and quality assurance, health professionals, and university and government officials.

Dialogues and presentations around the sustainable practices of U.S. Soy helped differentiate and elevate the benefits of U.S. Soy in food use and show its potential to help bring a lower carbon footprint for soy in the Southeast Asia region. Nearly 300 participants joined either in person or virtually to learn about U.S. food soybean production and perspectives on trends, forecasts, policy, trade and sustainability.

Greg Greving, a soybean farmer from Chapman, Nebraska, was on hand for the event and noted the value of spending time together with customers in person.

“Meetings with buyers are vital to our industry,” Greving said. “We need to have the contact for the contracts to follow. Getting together face-to-face is like me performing maintenance on my tractor. You have to take care of it for performance and longevity.”

Southeast Asia is an important trade partner for Nebraska farmers, with over $781 million worth of Nebraska soybean exports sold to Indonesia alone over the past 10 years. At the conference, product and ingredient innovation was a key topic of discussion, covering new plant-based beverages, soy in both animal and plant-based meats, and bioprocesses, cultured and alternative protein development.

“The presentation and discussion started from traditional soy products, which is rooted to our culture, up to the sophisticated innovative products such as Ominimeat and cultivated protein or lab grown meat,” said Yunawati Gandasasmita, Head of Corporate Regulatory Affairs for Nutrition & Beverage at PT Kalbe Farma.

Attendees were given a demo of The Specialty U.S. Soy Database, which features nearly 300 soybean varieties, qualitative attributes and information on how to source U.S. identity preserved soybeans and supplier contact information.

Sustainability was an important subject, with discussions around how U.S. Soy can be part of a more sustainable food system in Southeast Asia. Presentations covered everything from how soy can help accomplish The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to food security and sustainability challenges to soy’s role in new agri-food innovations.

The event concluded with “Taste Tempe-tion,” a hands-on Tempe making and tasting session that demonstrated soy’s use in the popular Indonesian food.  

 “The chefs’ recipes demonstrated how delicious and versatile soy protein is,” said Linda Funk, President of Flavorful Insight, USA.



LONG-TIME AG EDUCATOR, RECEIVES NAYC’S HIGHEST HONOR
Scholarships awarded to youth

Craig Frederick of Lincoln, a retired agricultural educator and FFA advisor, was recently selected by Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council (NAYC) members to receive the Council’s highest honor, the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute’s (NAYI) Award of Merit. Frederick’s award was presented during NAYI’s annual State Dinner on July 13. The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) oversees NAYC and NAYI.

“As a long-time ag educator and FFA advisor, Craig mentored, encouraged and inspired students to learn about agriculture and participate in local, state and national ag-related events and competitions,” said NAYC Advisor Christin Kamm. “We are grateful that Craig shared his dedication and passion for agriculture with his students so that they could become valued members of the ag community as well.”

Frederick has extensive knowledge in plant and animal science, horticultural and natural resources. He earned Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in agriculture education from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Frederick started his 34-year teaching career at Lewiston Consolidated Schools. Throughout his career, Frederick taught in Seward, Grand Island and Cairo, Nebraska. The Nebraska Agricultural Educators Association named Frederick Teacher/Mentor of the Year in 2020. Frederick retired in 2021 after spending 8 years as an ag educator at Seward Public Schools.

In addition to teaching, Frederick exceled in ag education on the state level as Director of Agriculture Education and State FFA Advisor for the Nebraska Department of Education for 6 years. Frederick also served for 5 years as a program success specialist for the National FFA in Indianapolis, Indiana, and he has served on Nebraska’s FFA Foundation Board.

NAYI is a week-long event for high school juniors and seniors interested in agriculture. NAYI includes motivational speakers, ag education, networking with peers and industry leaders, leadership experience and information on ag careers. In its 51st year this year, NAYI is the longest running program of its kind in the nation.

“Craig has always encouraged students to participate in NAYI making him a huge supporter of the program and of youth pursuing their passions in the agricultural field,” said Kamm. “His extensive knowledge and his passion for teaching others will impact Nebraska agriculture for years to come.”

Scholarships Awarded to Youth
During NAYI’s State Dinner, the NAYC Alumni Board members presented a $1,000 scholarship to a deserving Council member for work and dedication to the agriculture industry. This year’s $1,000 scholarship award went to Cole Kalkowski of Omaha, for his work throughout the year of promoting and sharing information about agriculture with Nebraska youth.

Kalkowski will be a senior at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln this fall majoring in mechanical engineering with a minor in entrepreneurship. Kalkowski has a background in media journalism and is often seen behind a camera recording stories about agriculture and bringing those stories to life.

During the scholarship presentation, NAYC Alum Amanda Tupper thanked Kalkowski for giving generously of his time and talents to Nebraska agriculture.

“Cole goes above and beyond in everything he does, and we’re fortunate to have him here in Nebraska leading the way in agriculture.”

Additionally, scholarships in the amount of $600 each were awarded to two high school seniors who participated in NAYI this year as returning delegates. Returning delegates have additional responsibilities during NAYI designed to enhance leadership abilities and organizational skills. The scholarships were presented by the University of Nebraska – Lincoln College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CASNR).

The two scholarship recipients are Jenna Knake from Avoca and Levi Schiller from Scribner, who both plan to attend the University of Nebraska this fall and be a part of CASNR. NAYI is made possible through generous donations from agricultural businesses, commodity groups and industry organizations. To learn more about NAYC or NAYI, visit https://nda.nebraska.gov/nayi/.



IDALS Urges Iowans to be on the Lookout for Spotted Lanternflies

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship asks Iowans to be on the lookout for spotted lanternfly insects. The colorful but invasive and destructive insect is native to China, India, and Vietnam, and was accidentally introduced into Pennsylvania in 2014. It has since been confirmed in eleven states and often spreads by the movement of infested material or items containing spotted lanternfly egg masses. If allowed to spread further in the United States, this pest could seriously impact the country’s grape, orchard, nursery, and logging industries.

A community member notified the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship of the presence of two immature spotted lanternflies in Dallas County earlier this month. Federal identification confirmed the sample as a spotted lanternfly. Surveys of the immediate area have not resulted in signs of an ongoing infestation and entomologists hope the insects recently hitchhiked into the area.

“Spotted lanternfly nymphs and adults are colorful, and if you spot one, please report it to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship right away. We appreciate this community member letting us know about its presence in our state and we hope other Iowans will keep an eye out as we want to contain the spread of this destructive pest,” said State Entomologist Robin Pruisner. “At this time of year, we expect to find the eye-catching nymphs, which can be black and white, or red, black, and white. It is ironic is that this invasive insect prefers to feed on the tree-of-heaven, another invasive species.”

Spotted lanternfly adults and nymphs frequently gather in large numbers on host plants. They are easiest to spot at dusk or at night as they migrate up and down the trunk of the plant. During the day, they tend to cluster near the base of the plant if there is adequate cover or in the canopy, making them more difficult to see.

It feeds on a wide range of fruit, ornamental, and woody trees, with tree-of-heaven being one of the preferred hosts. Plants preferred include grapes and hops, and the following trees: almond, apple, apricot, cherry, maple, nectarine, oak, peach, pine, plum, poplar, sycamore, tree-of-heaven, walnut, and willow. Infested plants may ooze or weep and have a fermented odor. A buildup of sticky honeydew on plants or the ground underneath the plants may be present. A sooty mold may also occur on infested plants and fruit. The sucking of sap from plants can reduce the products of photosynthesis, thereby weakening the plant and eventually contributing to the plant’s death.

If you think you have found a spotted lanternfly, please call the Entomology and Plant Science Bureau at 515-725-1470 or e-mail Entomology@IowaAgriculture.gov. You may also contact your local county Iowa State University Extension Office.



USDA Begins Issuing Payments for Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is increasing the amount of funding available for the Spot Market Hog Pandemic Program (SMHPP) and expects to issue approximately $62.8 million in pandemic assistance payments to hog producers starting this week. SMHPP assists eligible producers who sold hogs through a spot market sale from April 16, 2020, through Sept. 1, 2020. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) accepted SMHPP applications through April 29, 2022.

“In order to provide more targeted support to hog producers affected by the pandemic, FSA was able to increase funding for SMHPP to provide full payments to producers instead of applying a payment factor,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “We are pleased to be able to provide more equitable opportunities for hog producers who were hard-hit by the pandemic.”

SMHPP Payments
SMHPP payments will be calculated by multiplying the number of head of eligible hogs, not to exceed 10,000 head, by the payment rate of $54 per head.

FSA originally planned to apply a payment factor if calculated payments exceeded the allocated $50 million in pandemic assistance funds for SMHPP. Payments are not expected to be factored due to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack’s decision to increase funding enabling producers to receive 100% of the calculated SMHPP payment.    

There is no per person or legal entity payment limitation on SMHPP payments.

Statement by Terry Wolters, NPPC president and owner of Stoney Creek Farms in Pipestone, Minnesota
“We appreciate FSA’s commitment to providing assistance to those pork producers hit hard by the economic disruptions caused by the pandemic. Producers forced into spot market hog sales are still challenged by the market disruptions of COVID-19, and these funds will contribute to the ongoing recovery of the U.S. pork industry.”



Producer Promotes U.S. Pork in Britain

Last month, Joe Dykhuis, co-owner of Dykhuis Farms in Michigan, and Courtney Knupp, NPB’s VP of international market development, traveled to the United Kingdom to participate in a cross-commodity USDA Agribusiness Trade Mission.

Here’s what they accomplished:
    Promoted the high quality of U.S. pork to importers
    Explored pork at retail locations, including Costco (Did you know U.S. pork supplies all pork loins to 30 U.K. Costco locations?)
    Gathered feedback to refine U.S. pork’s sustainability messaging, a key demand among consumers in the U.K. and other markets
     
The goal of this type of in-market presence is to educate importers on U.S. pork’s sustainability commitment. It’s also a chance to collect feedback that helps NPB’s strategic partners, like U.S. Meat Export Federation, differentiate U.S. pork in a diverse global protein market.

International market development is a key investment for the pork industry. In 2021, more than $62 for every hog sold came from exports.

“We’ve been able to get value out of parts of pigs we don’t eat in the U.S.,” says Knupp. “Our job is to sell each part of the pig every day at the highest value, whether that customer is domestic or international.”



ICGA Thanks Senators Grassley and Ernst for Introducing Next Generation Fuels Act

The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) thanks Senator Chuck Grassley and Senator Joni Ernst for introducing the Next Generations Fuels Act. This bipartisan legislation, a companion bill to H.R. 5089, reduces the carbon intensity of liquid fuels and passenger vehicles through increased use of higher ethanol blends. By providing more availability at the pump, consumers will have the choice of a high-octane, low-carbon, low-priced fuel option that they deserve.

By increasing demand for corn and biofuels, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality and human health and increasing fuel efficiency, the Next Generation Fuels Act is a prime example of the impact corn farmers can contribute toward addressing climate change and decarbonizing transportation. This legislation, once enacted, would increase ethanol demand by over 5 billion gallons per year, which would utilize 1.7 billion bushels of additional corn. This bill would also lead to a reduction of 111.1 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually, which is the equivalent of removing 23.7 million cars from the road every year.

Additionally, this bill provides automakers with more options to meet increasingly stringent fuel economy and greenhouse gas emission standards by utilizing ethanol blends up to 30% in vehicles designed and warranted for these fuels. The Next Generation Fuels Act is co-sponsored by Senator Chuck Grassley, R-IA, Senator Joni Ernst, R-IA, Amy Klobuchar, D-MN and Senator Tammy Duckworth, D-IL. Iowa Corn would also like to thank Iowa’s entire congressional delegation for their work, support and effort in moving this bill forward.

Below is a statement from Iowa Corn Growers Association President, Lance Lillibridge:

“Through Senator Chuck Grassley and Senator Joni Ernst’s efforts to move forward the Next Generation Fuels Act, we will be able to provide drivers with greater access to more affordable, home-grown, clean-burning fuel. This bipartisan bill enables corn growers to utilize expanded markets and provides a much-needed climate solution. Outdated legislative and regulatory barriers have stood in the way of higher ethanol blends for far too long and this bill provides the change we wish to see in setting a new low-carbon octane standard.”



National Corn Growers Association Applauds Senate Introduction of Next Generation Fuels Act

In a step forward for energy security and the nation’s consumers, Senator Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), with the support of Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), today introduced the Next Generation Fuels Act in the U.S. Senate.

“The Next Generation Fuels Act would lower fuel prices, reduce carbon emissions, and shore-up America’s energy security for the long run,” said Iowa farmer and National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) President Chris Edgington. “We are very grateful to Sens. Grassley, Klobuchar, Ernst and Duckworth for their leadership on this important issue.”

The bill would establish a clean, high-octane standard for gasoline and require that sources of additional octane result in at least 40% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, allowing automakers to significantly improve vehicle fuel efficiency through advanced engines.

Because corn growers have a vested interest in the future of transportation, NCGA began laying the groundwork and advocating for this policy several years ago, and the Next Generation Fuels Act, H.R. 5089, has received bipartisan support in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“We have worked closely with members of the House and Senate to secure bipartisan support for this legislation,” Edgington said. “In recent months, consumers have been reminded that we need choices at the pump. The Next Generation Fuels Act would diversify our fuel supply and take greater advantage of low-cost, low-emission, and high-efficiency ethanol to give drivers affordable choices as we decarbonize and clean up transportation.”

As gas prices climbed to all-time highs, NCGA has reminded policymakers that ethanol has been priced about $1 per gallon less than unblended gasoline at wholesale, and drivers are saving 30 to 40 cents or more per gallon where retailers offer E15.

In late spring, the Biden administration acted to preserve access to higher blends of ethanol through the summer, ensuring consumers continue to have the low-cost, low-emission choice of E15 at the pump. The Next Generation Fuels Act would build on this progress by advancing higher ethanol blends and advanced vehicles that deliver greater emission reductions, cost savings and consumer choice.



Next Generation Fuels Act Introduced in the Senate

Today, Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa introduced the Next Generation Fuels Act in the United States Senate, which increases gasoline octane to a minimum standard through low-carbon, renewable fuels. Farmers and consumers stand to gain from the economic and environmental benefits brought about by this legislation.

“NFU is pleased to see further momentum on the Next Generation Fuels Act, through the introduction of companion legislation in the Senate by Senators Grassley, Klobuchar, Ernst, and Duckworth.  This important legislation supports usage of higher-level blends of ethanol, which NFU has long supported. Higher-level blends of ethanol, like E30, is good for farmers, good for the planet, and good for the pocketbooks of Americans,” said NFU President Rob Larew.

NFU has been a strong supporter of higher-level blends of ethanol and welcomes the introduction of this legislation in the Senate. NFU supported this legislation in August 2021 when it was introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Cheri Bustos of Illinois.



Growth Energy Applauds Introduction of Grassley, Klobuchar Bill on High-Octane, Low-Carbon Fuels, Urges Senate Passage

Growth Energy today praised the introduction of legislation by U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) that would unleash access to higher-octane, lower-emission, and lower-cost fuels for American drivers.

“The Next Generation Fuels Act represents a clear roadmap for delivering cleaner, more affordable options at the pump for American drivers,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “With a natural octane of 113, ethanol is the only high-performance, renewable fuel ready to help decarbonize cars on the road today – and with the added benefit of offering consumers significant savings at the pump. We applaud Senators Grassley, Klobuchar, Ernst, and Duckworth for working to promote the use of high-octane, lower-carbon biofuel blends that hold enormous potential for rural America’s role in clean energy production and lowering prices at the pump. We urge swift passage of this legislation as it works to offer both climate solutions and gas price relief to the American people.”

Background
The House version of the Next Generation Fuel Act was introduced in August 2021 by Representatives Cheri Bustos (D-Ill.) and Congressman James Comer (R-Ky.). The legislation requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to create a new 95 Research Octane Number (RON) standard that would rise to 98 RON after 2031. The legislation would also limit reliance on toxic, aromatic hydrocarbons, require a 40 percent reduction in the carbon intensity of octane-boosting additives, and update fuel and infrastructure regulations to expand the availability of ethanol blends up to E40. In addition, the bill extends incentives for Flex Fuel vehicles and requires the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to make long-overdue updates to obsolete models that undercount the contributions of U.S. biofuels to clean air and a healthy climate.  



RFA Thanks Senators for Advancing Innovative Next Generation Fuels Act

The Renewable Fuels Association today thanked Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and a bipartisan group of co-sponsors for introducing the Next Generation Fuels Act in the Senate. The bill establishes a high-octane, low-carbon fuel standard that would lower pump prices, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enable greater engine efficiency, and encourage competition. In addition, the legislation addresses regulatory impediments that have slowed the commercialization of these fuels and the vehicles that consume them.

Along with Sen. Grassley, original cosponsors include Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). A similar bill was introduced last year in the House of Representatives by Rep. Cheri Bustos (D-IA) and currently has 25 bipartisan cosponsors.

“We sincerely thank Sen. Grassley, along with Sens. Klobuchar, Ernst, and Duckworth, for introducing the Next Generation Fuels Act in the Senate,” said RFA President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “These lawmakers recognize that Americans will continue to rely on liquid fuels and internal combustion engines for decades to come, and their legislation would ensure consumers have access to more efficient, lower-carbon, lower-cost fuels for their vehicles. This summer’s geopolitical instability, record-high gas prices, and more frequent climate disasters all underscore the need for real and immediate energy solutions for American families. This bill provides those sensible solutions, and we look forward to working with clean fuel supporters in both chambers of Congress to turn this bold vision into a reality.”

In addition to saving drivers money at each fill-up, low-carbon liquid fuels like ethanol are an essential part of the strategy to reach net-zero GHG emissions by mid-century, Cooper said, and RFA’s member companies have committed to achieving a net-zero carbon footprint for ethanol by 2050 or sooner.

Specifically, the Next Generation Fuels Act would establish high-octane (95 and 98 RON) certification test fuels containing 20-30 percent ethanol, while requiring automobile manufacturers to design and warrant their vehicles for the use of these fuels beginning with model year 2026. The bill also includes a low-carbon requirement, specifying that the source of the octane boost must reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by an average of at least 40 percent compared to a 2021 gasoline baseline, as measured by the Department of Energy’s GREET model. The legislation also includes a restriction on the aromatics content of gasoline, ensures parity in the regulation of gasoline volatility (Reid vapor pressure), corrects key variables used in fuel economy testing and compliance, requires an update to the EPA’s MOVES model, ensures infrastructure compatibility, and addresses many other regulations impeding the deployment of higher octane blends at the retail level.



NGFA asks House lawmakers to support rail shipping bill  

The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today encouraged lawmakers to introduce and support a bill to reauthorize the federal Surface Transportation Board (STB) and help address insufficient, unreliable freight rail service for the U.S. agricultural value chain.

House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Peter DeFazio, D-Ore., and Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee Chairman Donald Payne Jr., D-N.J., have drafted the Freight Rail Shipping Fair Market Act, which includes several updates that would provide fairer treatment for agricultural shippers. The most recent STB Reauthorization expired almost two years ago.

“The status quo is not working for agricultural shippers and consumers, and we urge the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to work together to address this significant supply chain problem,” noted NGFA and 88 other members of the Agricultural Transportation Working Group (ATWG) in a July 26 letter to committee leaders.

Among other provisions, the Freight Rail Shipping Fair Market Act would instruct STB to create rules for shippers to charge demurrage on railroads, providing a way for NGFA members to incentivize railroads to perform in the same way railroads incentivize their customers. The bill also would further define the common carrier obligation to establish minimum rail service standards.

“With fall harvest approaching, agricultural stakeholders need our partners in freight rail to be successful in delivering adequate and resilient service,” the letter states. “We urge the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to continue to collaborate, introduce and promptly consider a policy solution to deter future rail service failures.”    



Corteva Agriscience Announces U.S. EPA Registration of Resicore® XL Herbicide

Corteva Agriscience today announced that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved the registration of Resicore® XL herbicide. The improved Resicore XL herbicide formulation will be available for use in the 2023 growing season.

“Resicore XL herbicide offers increased crop safety and the widest application window of any Corteva Agriscience corn herbicide — along with the proven, powerful weed control growers already know and love from Resicore herbicide,” said Kelly White, U.S. Product Manager, Corn Herbicides, Corteva Agriscience. “We’re continuously looking for new, innovative solutions that meet the needs of today’s growers, and Resicore XL herbicide does just that.”

Resicore XL herbicide builds on the success and proven weed control corn farmers have come to expect from predecessor Resicore herbicide — the most widely used residual corn herbicide in the United States in 2019 and 2020.

Key benefits of Resicore XL herbicide include:
    Proven, powerful weed control. Resicore XL herbicide will give corn growers power over weeds with three proven modes of action to control more than 75 of the toughest broadleaves and grasses. The solution is powerful against even the most resistant weed varieties, including Palmer amaranth, waterhemp, marestail and giant ragweed.
     
    A wider application window. Resicore XL herbicide provides the flexibility needed to fit a wide variety of weed control and agronomic programs with the widest application window of any corn herbicide in the Corteva Agriscience portfolio. Resicore XL herbicide can be applied from preemergence through postemergence on corn up to 24 inches tall. Farmers also can customize their application rates for added application flexibility.
     
    Increased crop safety. Resicore XL herbicide is formulated for increased crop safety with an encapsulated acetochlor. The lesser crop response will help farmers achieve maximum yield potential.
     
    Greater tank-mix compatibility. Resicore XL herbicide features greater tank-mix compatibility with micronutrients, including UAN and ammonium thiosulfate (ATS). In addition, the solution will allow farmers the opportunity to customize their weed management with compatible products like atrazine, glyphosate and other corn herbicides.

Resicore XL is part of Corteva Agriscience’s broad portfolio of crop protection solutions designed to address customer needs.

Local retailers will have the most up-to-date information on the availability of Resicore XL herbicide in your area.



Four More Big Players Join “Farmer-centric” Research on Biologicals

“Biologicals: Farmer Value, Perception and Potential,” a comprehensive market research effort focused on understanding farmer opinions on the current use, issues and potential for biologicals at field-level, now has major agribusiness support to match participation already gained from industry associations.
 
“We’re pleased to announce that Meristem, BASF. Indigo and Pivot Bio are teaming with us to dig deeper,” said Cam Camfield, Founder and CEO of Stratovation Group in announcing the news. “More thoughtful input from a variety of players at the front end will help us get better data throughout the study. And better data will drive better planning and results for every organization involved.”

“Biologicals: Farmer Value, Perception and Potential” is set to kick off in 2022 and occur annually. Conducted by Stratovation Group in close collaboration with the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA), DC Legislative and Regulatory Services (DCLRS) and The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) the repeating study will benchmark adoption and attitudes around farm use of biologicals and aid those seeking to grow and develop the market category.

"Ag biological products are a significant business interest for many DCLRS clients and are increasingly drawing attention from governments at both Federal and states levels--our collaboration on this study will help bring commercial interests and government into better alignment", said David Beaudreau, DCLRS Senior Vice President.  

While there are other reports that may help in broad trend analysis, Camfield said, they lack the farmer voice, explained Camfield.  “In contrast, this will be a farmer-centric study.Farmers are the center of our world and it’s time for the market to listen to them more – seek to understand the good, the bad and the ugly at field-level.”

Camfield stressed that those interested in joining the effort to produce the “Biologicals: Farmer Value, Perception and Potential” annual report can become a sponsoring partner and share in all the findings, including the raw data. “It’s good for us to have more voices involved to inform this study,” he said. “We are gearing up for excellence and inviting any biological-focused company, startup, investor and others to join us,” he said.

Those interested may connect with Camfield and Stratovation Group at www.StratovationGroup.com/biologicals.



FARM AID FESTIVAL SET FOR NORTH CAROLINA ON SEPT. 24

Farm Aid’s annual festival — a full day of music, family farmers, HOMEGROWN food and agrarian experiences — is coming to Raleigh, North Carolina, on Saturday, Sept. 24, at Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek. Tickets will go on sale to the public on Saturday, July 30, at 10 a.m. ET, at LiveNation.com.

Farm Aid 2022 will feature performances by Farm Aid board members Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews (with Tim Reynolds), and Margo Price, as well as Chris Stapleton, Sheryl Crow, Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats, Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real, Allison Russell, Charley Crockett, Brittney Spencer and Particle Kid. The festival will showcase how farmers are leading the way to mitigate climate change by sharing their stories on the Farm Aid stage and throughout the event.

This is the second time the Farm Aid festival has taken place in Raleigh, having made its debut there in 2014.

“I’ve always said that family farmers strengthen us all,” said Farm Aid President and Founder Willie Nelson. “Farmers in North Carolina, across the Southeast, and all over the country are growing solutions to our toughest challenges, including climate change. We’re bringing Farm Aid here to highlight their hard work and celebrate the ways we can all join farmers to help.”

Agriculture is the lifeblood of North Carolina, generating $92.7 billion annually and employing 17.5% of the state’s workforce (more than 700,000 jobs). Home to 41,500 farms, farmland makes up more than 8.3 million acres of the Tar Heel state. North Carolina’s agriculture is extremely diverse, with 150 different farm products produced. Farms across the state engage in direct-to-consumer sales, creating the foundation for a vibrant local food system. Across the state, climate change has a considerable impact — especially on communities of color, rural communities and those working in agriculture. North Carolina farmers are implementing techniques to mitigate climate change, including planting crops to cover soil between growing seasons, rotating crops, reducing soil tillage, integrating livestock and crop production, raising pastured livestock, and improving soil and water management.

Farm Aid festival attendees experience a full day of music and the taste of local flavors with Farm Aid’s HOMEGROWN Concessions®, which offer a diverse, fresh menu with ingredients that are produced by family farmers using ecological practices with a fair price paid to the farmers. Farm Aid’s HOMEGROWN Village features hands-on activities engaging festivalgoers with exhibits about soil, water, energy, food and farming. Festivalgoers can hear farmers and artists inform and inspire on the FarmYard Stage and celebrate the know-how and diversity of cultures of agriculture in the HOMEGROWN Skills tent.

“Everywhere we go, we hear from festivalgoers that there’s nothing quite like the Farm Aid experience,” said Farm Aid Executive Director Carolyn Mugar. “Farmers and eaters are inspired and empowered at the intersection of music and family farm food to support the source of our food — family farmers — and to join farmers in fighting for our soil and water. We will celebrate the family farmers of the Southeast and amplify their voices on the Farm Aid stage in September.”

Tickets will go on sale Saturday, July 30, at 10 a.m. ET. Ticket prices range from $75 to $315 and will be available for purchase at LiveNation.com. A limited number of pre-sale tickets will be available beginning at 10 a.m. ET on Wednesday, July 27, at www.farmaid.org/tickets.

Additionally, Farm Aid is partnering with digital fundraising platform Fandiem to inspire fans to give back for a chance to win a ‘Farm Aid VIP PLUS Experience'. Fans can Donate To Win online at Fandiem.com/farmaid for a chance at an all-expense paid trip to Farm Aid 2022, including two VIP Experience tickets with access to the VIP Experience club and more.

Venue and Farm Aid staff are staying up to date on the latest CDC guidance and industry best practices to limit the transmission of COVID-19. Farm Aid is taking various precautions, including enhanced sanitation protocols and streamlined operations to prevent unnecessary crowding. Farm Aid will monitor the situation closely and will update protocols as warranted leading up to the festival.

Farm Aid 2022 will air live on FarmAid.org and Farm Aid’s YouTube channel. Returning as the exclusive broadcast partner for the second year in a row, award-winning country lifestyle network Circle will broadcast the festival live on air, as well as on its Facebook, Twitter and TikTok pages (@CircleAllAccess). Fans can find Circle on its linear feed and across most streaming platforms, including Roku, DISH, Samsung TV Plus, Peacock, VIZIO SmartCast, Tubi, Redbox and more.