Tuesday February 14 Ag News

 NE Corn Calls for Initiation of USMCA Enforcement Case

The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) and the Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) urge an immediate response from the Biden Administration and the office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) in response to Mexico’s updated published decree on February 13 which will revoke authorizations and permits to import, produce, distribute and use the herbicide glyphosate and genetically modified (GM) corn in the midst of trade tensions with the United States.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) has clearly violated the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) trade pact by issuing this decree to ban the imports of GM corn. Nebraska Corn stresses that a consultation process for a dispute under USMCA must be initiated immediately.

The decree alludes to scientific studies being conducted to investigate the health impacts of consuming GM corn. After decades of global study, the negative results have been absent time and time again when utilizing genetic technology. Nebraska Corn trusts the science.

“We are to the point that the United States needs to request consultation under USMCA immediately,” Chris Grams, NeCGA president, states. “The decree is unacceptable for not only Nebraska farmers, but also the country of Mexico. If the decree comes to pass, it will have severe economic consequences on Nebraska farmers as we lead the nation in white corn production.”

“We trust the science and so should Mexico,” Jay Reiners, NCB Chairman states. “We refuse to sacrifice the science, or the growing of white corn used for human consumption for yellow corn and livestock feed. Mexico cannot feed their people alone; they need U.S. farmers.”

Genetic technology has changed the way crops are grown, sold and marketed. It is necessary for a consultation process for a dispute under USMCA to be initiated.

The Nebraska Corn Board is funded through a producer checkoff investment of ½-cent-per-bushelcheckoff on all corn marketed in the state and is managed by nine farmer directors. The mission of the Nebraska Corn Board is to promote the value of corn by creating opportunities.

The Nebraska Corn Growers Association (NeCGA) is a grassroots commodity organization that works to enhance the profitability of corn producers. NeCGA has more than 2,500 dues-paying members in Nebraska. NeCGA is affiliated with the National Corn Growers Association, which has more than 40,000 dues-paying members nationwide.



Fischer Statement on Mexico’s Updated Ban on Genetically Modified Corn

Today, U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, released the following statement after the government of Mexico issued an updated decree to ban imports of U.S. genetically modified corn:

“Let’s call it what it is – Mexico’s latest decree against genetically modified corn is an absurd rebuke of the United States and our shared trade agreements.

“As I’ve said before, any ban is a clear violation of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement and has no basis in scientific fact.

“Such a ban would not only hurt Nebraska farmers, but also would directly harm Mexico’s food security and undermine ag innovation.

“While I appreciate the Biden Administration’s attempts to negotiate, it is clear that the United States needs to immediately pursue a dispute settlement process through the USMCA. There can be no flexibility here.”



As Mexico Implements New Decree, NCGA Amplifies Call for Biden Administration to Initiate Dispute Settlement Under USMCA

Mexico officials issued a new decree on Monday calling for a ban on imports of biotech corn used for certain purposes, effective today. The decree also indicated the Mexican government would continue to allow imports of biotech corn used as animal feed while exploring substitutes.

NCGA expressed serious concern with the accelerated implementation timeline.

“The Biden administration has been more than patient with Mexico as U.S. officials have sought to enforce a rules-based trading system and stand up for American farmers,” said National Corn Growers Association President Tom Haag. “The integrity of USMCA, signed by Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador himself, is at stake. Singling out corn – our number one ag export to Mexico – and hastening an import ban on numerous food-grade uses makes USMCA a dead letter unless it’s enforced.”

President López Obrador initiated a decree in late 2020 that would ban imports of biotech corn effective January 31, 2024. The Biden administration and Congress have worked closely with Mexican officials over the last several months to head off the ban, which would be catastrophic for American corn growers as well as the Mexican people, who depend on corn as a major staple of their food supply.

Those talks culminated in a letter from a Biden administration official late last week calling for Mexico to provide further explanation and justification for the original decree. While the Mexican government had appeared to be seeking a more pragmatic position to promote food security in recent weeks, the latest decree sends a message that Mexico is doubling down on its original position.

Biotechnology has revolutionized farming, allowing farmers to grow more corn and other crops to feed more people using less land, chemicals and resources. U.S. regulators and leading science and health organizations around the world have determined and long maintained that biotech products currently on the market are safe and beneficial.



USDA TO SURVEY FARMERS’ PLANTING INTENTIONS FOR 2023

As the 2023 crop production season begins, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will contact producers nationwide to determine their plans for the upcoming growing season.

“Each year, the agriculture industry eagerly awaits USDA’s Prospective Plantings report, which provides the first survey-based estimates of U.S. farmers’ planting intentions for the year,” said NASS’ Northern Plains Regional Director, Nicholas Streff. “The March Agricultural Survey provides the factual data that underpins these projections, making it one of the most important surveys we conduct each year.”

NASS will mail the survey questionnaire in February, asking producers to provide information about the types of crops they intend to plant in 2023, how many acres they intend to plant, and the amounts of grain and oilseed stored on their farms. NASS encourages producers to respond online or by mail. Those producers who do not respond by the deadline may be contacted for a telephone interview.

NASS safeguards the privacy of all respondents and publishes only aggregate data, ensuring that no individual operation or producer can be identified. Survey results will be published in the Prospective Plantings and quarterly Grain Stocks reports to be released on March 31, 2023. These and all NASS reports are available online at www.nass.usda.gov/Publications. For more information call the NASS Nebraska Field Office at (800) 582-6443.



DECIPHERING A HAY TEST: ADF and NDF
– Brad Schick, NE Extension Educator

Understanding a hay test can be difficult. Today, we will look at fiber tests, Acid Detergent Fiber or ADF and Neutral Detergent Fiber or NDF.

Both ADF and NDF are part of the detergent analysis system used to analyze forages. NDF provides us with a measure of the forage sample’s cell wall, basically the total fiber. This includes the cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and silica portions of the forage which are the primary structural components for all plants. ADF, on the other hand, measures only the least digestible parts of the plant; cellulose, lignin, and silica.

NDF measurements correspond with voluntary intake and rumen fill, how much and how fast an animal can eat.  They also are a measure of how much energy is available to the animal. Usually, a low NDF reading means more energy available to the animal. The more mature a plant becomes, the more structural components it accumulates resulting in higher NDF readings and poorer quality feed. NDF levels can vary from 80% in straw to less than 40% in early blooming alfalfa.

ADF is directly related to the digestibility of the feed, measuring the indigestible portion of the plant. As ADF increases, digestibility decreases. This means that high ADF forages are low in energy. Alfalfa at early bloom has an ADF of 30-35% while a late bloom alfalfa has an ADF usually above 40%. Straw will have an ADF nearer to 50%.

ADF and NDF measure the sample’s fiber content, affecting digestibility and forage intake which help predict animal performance. Understanding these values set us up for next week’s discussion as we look at a measure of energy, TDN.



Early Herd Rebuilding Could Happen Through the Bred Cow Market
Elliott Dennis, Extension Livestock Economist, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The USDA Cattle Inventory report showed a 4% reduction in beef cows, a 6% decrease in heifers held back for retention, and a 5% reduction in heifers expected to calve this year (USDA-NASS 2023). Feeder cattle supplies will be reduced nationally in 2023. Continued liquidation in 2023 will depend on the profit margins producers expect to receive. Higher prices for feeder cattle are expected but higher feed costs, especially hay, and other inputs are limiting the profit potential. Some producers have already run out of hay as heavy snow has limited winter grazing and persistent drought conditions shortened the grazing season and reduced overall hay production. Much has been said about the ENSO weather patterns changing this year. If this weather pattern does materialize the change will benefit the Southern Plains with a cool and wet spring/summer whereas the Northern Plains generally stay dry in the summer before a cool/wet fall. For Northern Plains cattle producers, it may get a bit tougher before things improve from a feed perspective.

There will be producers who have feed resources and believe profits are to be had in 2023 and 2024. The quickest way for these producers to increase the feeder cattle supply is through the addition of bred cows or bred heifers. Bred heifers receive a premium over bred cows. For example, the price ratio of bred heifers to bred cows has averaged 2.5% over the last 5 years. In other words, bred heifers are on average 2.5% more expensive than bred cows. The premium is the widest in the Spring (March-May) and lowest in the Fall (September-November). There is a premium due to the longer useful life of the cow in the herd but smaller than expected due to potential issues with calving which can occur with first calf heifers.

However, the national bred cow price masks several factors that impact price. Age, weight, months bred, genetics and market conditions are the primary drivers of bred cow prices. One study using Oklahoma City bred heifer and bred cow sales from 2000-2015 estimated the premiums and discounts for each of these factors in the bred cow market (see Mitchell et al. 2018). To illustrate how these factors could impact producers' decisions to either buy or sell bred cows this year, I walk through several scenarios assuming we have a three-year-old bred cow that is six months pregnant, is a medium/large 1-2, and black hided. February 2023 prices for this type of cow in Oklahoma City, OK is $1,150 but has averaged $870 over the past three years.

Producers selling cows older than this should expect to receive a discount and the discounts tend to decrease almost linearly from 0%-20% as cows age. A four-year-old bred cow would cost $1,150 (0% discount), a seven-year-old bred cow would cost $1,035 (10% discount), and a ten-year-old bred cow would cost $920 (20% discount). Producers considering marketing older cows as bred should acknowledge the heavy discounts assigned as age increases.

Similarly, the closer the cow is to calving, the more expensive the bred cow becomes relative to a six-month-old bred cow. Discounts and premiums are nearly linear between a 4% premium ($1,196) for an eight-month-old bred cow, a 5% discount ($1,092) for a 4-month-old bred cow, and a 12% discount ($1,012) for a one-month-old bred cow. These premiums and discounts exist as there less risk of losing a calf as age increases, lower production costs before the calf’s birth, and revenue is received more quickly when late-gestating cows are purchased.

Selling this same bred cow at different times of the year will impact the price received. Producers looking to buy bred cows in the late winter or early spring should expect to pay a premium. The highest premiums are in February and March as many producers are purchasing cows that are on the same calving cycle in anticipation of summer grass and pastures. Prices peak in early March at approximately an 8% premium ($1,242). Prices are lowest in the summer and fall months in areas that are heavy spring calvers as producers are culling their herds and determining which heifers to be retained – a 4% discount ($1,104). Selling the same quality, age, and pregnancy age results in a difference of $138 per cow.

Current market conditions will also play a role in the price of bred cows. The feeder cattle and corn markets are the two largest drivers of bred cow prices. Higher feeder cattle prices create incentives for more calves to be brought to market and bred cows are the quickest way to do so. Higher corn prices increase the cost of gain in feedlots. This puts downward pressure on feeder cattle prices although the impact is delayed as it takes at least 6-8 months before the potential calf will reach the feedlot. Combining these impacts and current price forecasts can show the premiums and discounts producers can expect to receive for a bred cow. Premiums/discounts are relative to our bred cow (three-year-old that is six months pregnant) and current CME Feeder Cattle ($210 per cwt.) and Corn ($6 per bu.) contracts. Table 1 shows these premiums and discounts. The nearby feeder cattle price at the time of sale has a much larger impact than the nearby corn price. For example, relative to the BASE, a $0.50 decline would increase the price of our bred cow by 0.77% whereas a $10 per cwt. increase in the feeder cattle contract increases the price by 5.29%. Producers looking to rebuild herds through the bred cow market should be aware of these and other factors before buying or selling bred cows.



Bazile Groundwater Management Area (BGMA) 2023 WINTER MEETING
 
The Bazile Groundwater Management Area (BGMA) successfully hosted their Winter Meeting on Feb. 7, 2023, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Osmond Auditorium, 403 State St, Osmond, NE 68765.

This year's Winter Meeting featured a small trade show with local vendors present for the area producers / ranchers. Out of the 101 total attendees, 63 came for the discussions, with some for nitrogen certification, 23 were associated with the vendors, while the remainder 15 were BGMA staff.  

Highlights of the event include:
Javed Iqbal Assistant Professor for nutrient management and water quality at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL) sharing intriguing results from one of studies evaluating different nitrogen rates and models from one of the BGMA Demo Sites.
A ‘Farmer-to-Farmer’ forum with Junior Pfanstiel leading things off with a discussion about his experiences with using his Highboy to interseed cover crops and the benefits cover crops and interseeding.
Rylee Stoltz of ‘Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska’ gave a brief overview of what the organization has to offer livestock producers looking to further develop their operations.
The main speaker for the event was Jackson Stansell of Sentinel Fertigation who shared how his software can help producers to utilize modern technology such as aerial imagery to make more informed decisions about nitrogen management.
Jackson also shared examples of current users of the product showing economic benefits to their operations.

Keep an eye out for upcoming BGMA events!



Lindsay Corporation Announces Appointment of Senior Vice President, Strategy & Business Development

Lindsay Corporation, a leading global manufacturer and distributor of irrigation and infrastructure equipment and technology, recently announced the appointment of Brian Magnusson as Senior Vice President, Strategy & Business Development. In this newly created role, Magnusson is responsible for accelerating Lindsay's strategic growth plan and value creation through enterprise-wide corporate strategies, including strategic partnerships and mergers and acquisitions ("M&A"). He reports to Lindsay's President and CEO, Randy Wood.

"We are well-positioned to accelerate our growth through strategic partnerships and M&A activity, and we're fortunate to have someone with Brian's experience and skillset on our leadership team," said Wood. "Brian has held key positions in our commercial and technology businesses, and his relationships across our industries will be an asset as we focus on strategic growth."

Magnusson joined Lindsay in 2015 as Vice President of Technology and had responsibility for innovation and development of FieldNET© and other digital products. Most recently he served as Vice President for North and South America Irrigation. Prior to Lindsay, Magnusson served as Global Director, Tractor Portfolio Management at CNH Industrial and as Case Team Leader with Bain & Company, advising executive teams at Fortune 500 corporations on strategic growth challenges.

"I'm excited to accept this new opportunity and continue driving growth across the Lindsay portfolio," said Magnusson. "I look forward to collaborating with our leadership team to enhance our overall strategic vision and deliver significant value for our customers and shareholders."



Cattlemen’s Heritage Beef Company Announces Off-take Agreement with Darling Ingredients

The Cattlemen’s Heritage Beef Company has reached an agreement in which the off-take from its proposed 2,000-head per day beef-processing facility in Mills County will be purchased by Darling Ingredients, which is headquartered in Irving, Texas, and has facilities worldwide.

“As a fourth-generation cattle producer, I always prefer to work with businesses that have staying power and a record of success and innovation. I respect the fact that Darling Ingredients’ roots reach back to the 19th century and that the company has evolved from a small rendering firm to the world’s leading producer of sustainable, organic ingredients. Darling’s people are innovators in a challenging and ever-changing business, and they’re absolutely the best choice for us,” Cattlemen’s Heritage lead developer Chad Tentinger said today. “Darling Ingredients’ front-line people also have a solid record as responsible transporters and next-step processors of off-take, and that factored heavily into our decision.”

Tentinger said the proximity of a Darling Ingredients’ facility – just eight miles from the site where Cattlemen’s Heritage will break ground this year – is another plus for both companies.

“Cattlemen’s Heritage plays a critical role in delivering quality beef from Midwest family farms to consumers, with an emphasis on excellence and sustainability,” said Darling Ingredients Chairman and CEO Randall C. Stuewe. “As protein demand continues to grow, Darling Ingredients will continue to be an integral part of the circular economy. The raw material off-take from Cattleman’s Heritage will also provide additional feedstock for our current renewable diesel production and recently announced investment in sustainable aviation fuel production.”



Expert Study Finds Carbon Sequestration Vital to Future of Iowa Ethanol Production

Agricultural economic experts released a new study today that found Iowa ethanol production is at a crossroads. Without viable access to carbon capture and sequestration (CCS), Iowa could see 75 percent of its ethanol production migrate to states that facilitate sequestration.

The study, conducted by Decision Innovation Solutions (DIS), determined that current market and policy dynamics would results in Iowa ethanol production becoming noncompetitive with catastrophic results for Iowa ethanol producers, Iowa farmers and the Iowa economy. The finding included:
    Production will migrate out of state. By the end of the decade, Iowa ethanol production could contract by 75 percent (nearly 3.5 billion gallons per year) leading many plants to shut down.
    Iowa farmers would lose local markets for over 1 billion bushels of corn annually, depressing local corn prices.
    Iowa would realize an eventual decline in revenues from ethanol plants of more than $10 billion per year.

DIS concluded: “Margins matter. And the 45Z tax credits are a game changer. Clean fuels such as ethanol which are produced with CO2 capture and sequestration via pipeline are the future for the renewable fuels industry. Iowa’s ethanol industry is at a crossroads – will it be positioned to be the leader in ethanol and other clean fuels or watch that future move over the horizon?”

The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) commissioned DIS to conduct an all-encompassing economic impact study based on a scenario where Iowa ethanol plants are precluded from utilizing CCS technology via pipelines while surrounding states allow such projects to move forward. Phase 2 of the study, which is scheduled to be completed later this month, will determine the negative impact on local corn prices from the projected reduction in the Iowa corn grind.

“Legislation that would effectively shut down CCS pipelines would also shut down Iowa ethanol production,” stated IRFA executive director Monte Shaw. “The reality that Iowa ethanol producers face is that reasonable access CCS could be the difference between operating and shuttering their operations. We all recognize the important and emotional issues at play here, but IRFA members are calling on Iowans to unite to support a fair and equitable path forward for CCS. The future of Iowa ethanol production and Iowa corn prices depends on it.”



IPPA to provide support for Bacon Buddies® programs across the state
    
After holding three successful Bacon Buddies® swine shows at the Iowa State Fair, the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) is encouraging Iowans across the state to organize their own local shows.

Bacon Buddies shows are designed to give individuals with disabilities the opportunity to take a pig into the showring. There they experience acceptance by working with 4-H and FFA mentors, the opportunity to talk with a livestock judge in a public setting, and the joy of snagging a blue ribbon for their efforts. The shows are held in cooperation with Special Olympics Iowa.

“Bacon Buddies is a great opportunity for our Special Olympics Iowa athletes to be exposed to something new and socialize with friends.” says John Kliegl, the president and CEO of Special Olympics Iowa. “Our athletes want to do what their peers are doing, and it’s a great opportunity to work with the 4-H and FFA youth who see them as their equals. It’s all about equality and a great partnership with the Iowa Pork Producers Association.”

“What happens in the showring isn’t the main event,” says IPPA President Trish Cook. “Rather, it’s the connections, friendships and memories built as participants prepare for the show. Those of us in the pork industry know that when you work pigs together, you develop relationships. Our effort here is to honor our We Care principles of caring for people and for our communities.”

To encourage local Bacon Buddies shows, IPPA has established ‘Bucks for Bacon Buddies.’ IPPA will provide up to $500 for groups that plan and host these events. The money can be used for event signage, t-shirts, awards, advertising, etc. More details are at www.iowapork.org/bacon-buddies/ and click on the Plan Your Own button on that page. The information will provide suggestions on how to get started and the guidelines for applying for the funding.



Naig Calls on EPA to Accelerate Biofuel Growth and Protect Congressional Intent in Final RFS Rule

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig submitted comments to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding its proposed rulemaking and volume obligations for the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) for 2023, 2024 and 2025. Iowa is the undisputed national leader in biofuels production, with 42 ethanol biorefineries and 11 biodiesel facilities producing 4.5 billion gallons of ethanol and 349 million gallons of biodiesel respectively in 2022.

“Iowa’s renewable fuels industry is critical to Iowa’s economy, providing thousands of good-paying jobs in communities across our state. Biofuels also provide more affordable and cleaner burning fuel options to consumers and create value-added markets for corn, soybeans, and other agriculture feedstocks,” said Secretary Naig. “I am hopeful that EPA will carefully review stakeholder feedback, uphold and respect the intent of the law and adopt final RFS volume obligations that accelerate availability and use of higher ethanol and biodiesel blends.”

In the letter, Secretary Naig focused his comments on three areas:
    On ethanol, EPA should proceed with finalizing its proposed annual volumes for 2023, 2024, and 2025. These volumes, an implied 15.25 billion gallons per year, will set a course for increased domestic ethanol use and greater availability of higher ethanol blends such as E15 and E85 throughout the United States.

    On biomass-based diesel, EPA’s proposed volumes for 2023, 2024, and 2025 are unacceptably low. In fact, the proposed volume for 2023 is nearly 800 million gallons below the actual production of biomass-based diesel in 2022. With current production already exceeding EPA’s proposed volumes and renewable diesel production anticipated to grow exponentially in the coming years, EPA must significantly raise both the biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuel levels.

    EPA’s proposal to allow Renewable Identification Number generation from renewable electricity (eRINs) is inequitable, inconsistent with the statutory intent of the RFS program, and unenforceable. The eRINs proposal turns the RFS program on its head by allowing electric vehicle manufacturers to generate eRINs, rather than the renewable natural gas producers that actually produce renewable electricity. The current eRINs proposal should be separated from the RFS volumes and reworked in a manner that is equitable to biofuels and consistent with the RFS law.



USDA Announces Appointments to the National Pork Producers Delegate Body

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the appointment of 152 delegates, including 147 producers and five importers, to the 2023 National Pork Producers Delegate Body (Delegate Body).

Members appointed to serve one-year terms are:
    Alabama: Kaleb Skinner, Fruithurst; and Brian L. Anderson, Aburn
    Alaska: Pattie Worrell, Wasilla; and Rich Worrell, Wasilla
    Arizona: Bruce Lawler, Lakeside; and William Tate, Taylor
    Arkansas: Steve Balloun, Dardanelle; and Kayla Blake, Russellville
    California: Chance Reeder, Modesto; and Shelby N. Sopocy, Sacramento
    Colorado: Minda Mares, Julesburg; and Isabel Cervantes, Holyoke
    Connecticut: Hazel Secchiaroli, Waterford; and Jonathan Secchiaroli, Waterford
    Delaware: John B. Tigner, Jr., Hartly; and Henry Clay Johnson IV, Selbyville
    Florida: Tommy Crawford, Lake Butler; and Kyle Mendes, Lake Butler
    Georgia: Dania DeVane, Cuthbert; and Mark Clemmer, Broxton
    Idaho: Jared T. Teuscher, Burley; and Kirk Pugsley, Caldwell
    Illinois: Chad M. Leman, Eureka; Thomas Titus, Elkhart; Alan Kollmann, Altamont; Cheryl L. Walsh, Princeville; Jason Propst, Toledo; and Pamela S. Janssen, Minonk
    Indiana: James K. Douglas, Flat Rock; Matt Paschen, Logansport; Micah Render, Rensselaer; Adam R. Salsbery, Kokomo; Nicholas Tharp, Coatesville; and Dan W. Vague, Freetown
    Iowa: Linda Schroeder, Remsen; Lance Heuser, Manson; John E. Vossberg, Janesville; Trish Cook, Winthrop; Ryan Pudenz, Ames; Joel Van Gilst, Oskaloosa; Erin Brenneman, Wellman; Tim Bierman, Larrabee; Aaron Cook, Winthrop; Dean Frazer, Conrad; Gregg Hora, Fort Dodge; Aaron Juergens, Carroll; Greg Lear, Spencer; Rod Leman, Fort Dodge; Dennis C. Liljedahl, Essex; Curtis Meier, Clarinda; Mark Meirick, Protivin; Dwight D. Mogler, Lester; David Moody, Nevada; Mike Paustian, Walcott; Kevin L. Rasmussen, Goldfield; Lisa J. Rasmussen, Goldfield; Dale Gerard Reicks, New Hampton; Jamie Schmidt, Garner; Leon C. Sheets, Ionia; Bill Tentinger, Le Mars; Trent Thiele, Elma; Marv Van Den Top, Boyden; Clark Wikner, McGregor; and Steven Kerns, Clearfield
    Kansas: David Hartter, Sabetha; Kenton McKee, Goff; Scott Pfortmiller, Saint John; and Roy J. Henry, Longford
    Kentucky: Benji Hudnall, Bowling Green; Eric Heard, Russellville
    Maine: Brittany Hemond, Minot; and Michael G. Hemond, Minot
    Maryland: Michael Stoner, Taneytown; and Alan C. Eck, Henderson
    Michigan: Andy White, Jones; Brian Pridgeon, Montgomery; and Pat Albright, Coldwater
    Minnesota: Brian Schwartz, Sleepy Eye; Chris Compart, Nicollet; Meg E. Freking, Alpha; Brian B. Johnson, Walnut Grove; Mary Langhorst, Lafayette; Amber Portner, New Ulm; Mike Boerboom, Marshall; Roger D. Punt, Prinsburg; Todd Selvik, Waseca; Brad Hennen, Ghent; and Myrna Welter, Stewartville
    Mississippi: Sean Boe, Moselle; and Gerald Thompson, Bruce
    Missouri: Rich Deppe, Washington; Mike Diggs, Lamar; Donald L. Laut, Jr., Fredericktown; and Jeff Sims, Marshall
    Montana: Jacob A. Waldner, Havre; and Peter John Wipf, Carter
    Nebraska: Mark Wright, Fremont; Terry O’Neel, Friend; Hunter Thomas, Broken Bow; and Darin Uhlir, Saint Paul
    New York: James M. Luckman, Lewiston; and Richard Reese, Fort Plain
    North Carolina: Jay Archer, Tarboro; Jennifer B. Daniels, Autryville; David Dee Herring, Lillington; Marlowe Ivey Vaughan, Goldsboro; James L. Lamb, Clinton; Christina E. Phillips, Wallace; Jared Porter, Concord; Gaye D. Crowther, Tabor City; Brian J. Kennedy, Pink Hill; and Lorenda Overman, Goldsboro
    North Dakota: Pavel Danil, Michigan; and Nick Bundermann, Starkweather
    Ohio: Josh K. Berry, Pleasantville; Kenneth M. Garee, Sunbury; Nathan Schroeder, Leipsic; and Nick Seger, Sidney
    Oklahoma: Basil S. Werner, Kingfisher; Angie Johnson, Holdenville; and Robert Peffley, Seminole
    Oregon: Ray Blake, Newberg; and Jennifer Blake, Newberg
    Pennsylvania: Heidi A. Flory, Hegins; Drew Derstein, Lewistown; and Jason D. Manbeck, Bethel
    South Carolina: Mark A. McLeod, Pinewood; and Gary Curtis Lee, Jr., Alcolu
    South Dakota: Jason Foster, Garden City; Ryan Storm, Mount Vernon; Bob Thaler, Brookings; and Paul P. Wipf, Frankfort
    Tennessee: Dolly Jane Barnes, Selmer; and James Mathis, Duck River
    Texas: Peter C. Baumert, Dalhart; and Douglas Schaefer, Garden City
    Utah: Ryan Goff, Cedar City; Todd N. Ballard, Benson; and Jim Webb, Beaver
    Virginia: R.O. Britt, Williamsburg; and Jessica Cunningham, Elberon
    Washington: Robin Cocking, Colfax; and Tom Cocking, Colfax
    Wisconsin: Christina J. Meylor, Darlington; and Jeff Morris, Lone Rock
    Wyoming: Shawn Shmidl, Pine Bluffs; and Joe Bridges, Powell
    Importers: Martin Sauer, Jersey City, N.J.; Roland Schinbeckler, Warren, N.J.; Elisa Sandson, Arlington, Va.; Rich Maebert, South Orange, N.J.; and Ole Nielsen, Madison, N.J.

The Delegate Body meets annually to recommend the rate of assessment, determine the percentage of assessments that state associations will receive, and nominate producers and importers to the National Pork Board (Board). Representation on the Delegate Body is based on annual net assessments collected on sales of domestic hogs within individual states, with a minimum of two producers from each state. States have the option of not submitting nominees.

The Board and the Delegate Body were established under the Pork Promotion, Research, and Consumer Information Act of 1985. By law, USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) oversees operations of the Board and the Delegate Body.



NPPC Economic Update Gives Snapshot of Current Pork Industry Opportunities and Challenges
 
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) released its latest pork industry economic update that summarizes key pork industry market indicators through January 2023.
 
Q1 takeaways include:
    After declining 2.5% in 2022, USDA projects growth in pork production for 2023.
    Retail pork prices increased by 1.5% from December 2021 to 2022.
    The cost of raising pigs was record high in 2022, increasing 21% from the previous year.
    Labor market conditions and changing demographics are exacerbating the rural labor shortage.

“The U.S. pork industry is a pillar of the U.S. economy, supporting jobs, sales, and value-added activity throughout the pork supply chain,” said Lori Stevermer, NPPC vice president and pork producer from Easton, Minnesota. “It is important to raise awareness of the economic contributions made by pork production and highlight the current economic and policy issues impacting producer success.”
 
In addition to the quarterly update, NPPC released a national and 22 state-level economic reports last year. These reports highlight how the pork industry contributes at a grassroots level and illustrate the breadth of the industry producing affordable, safe, and nutritious pork for consumers worldwide.
 
To learn more about the impact of pork production on the U.S. economy, click here: https://nppc.org/the-pork-industry/.



Former Vice President Al Gore Announced as Opening Keynote Speaker at AIM for Climate Summit

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced former Vice President Al Gore as an opening keynote speaker at the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM for Climate) Summit on May 8-10, 2023, in Washington D.C. The AIM for Climate Summit will bring together partners to increase and accelerate investment in and support for climate-smart agriculture and food systems innovation.

“We are honored to have former Vice President Al Gore join us in Washington this May to kick off the AIM for Climate Summit,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “He has been on the forefront of the climate crisis for more than 40 years and is a leader in the international response to combating climate change. His participation in the Summit underscores the critical role agriculture innovation plays in addressing this global issue.”

Launched at COP26 in 2021, AIM for Climate is an initiative co-led by the United Arab Emirates and the United States that seeks to enable global partnerships and solutions at the intersection of agriculture and climate change. Since its inception, AIM for Climate partners have increased investment to more than $8 billion, launched 30 innovation sprints, and expanded to more than 275 partners worldwide. At COP27 in 2022, Secretary Vilsack announced the U.S. will host the AIM for Climate Summit, with support from the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research.

The Summit is a premier event for AIM for Climate partners designed to serve as a dynamic platform to raise ambition, build collaborations, and share knowledge on innovative solutions in the lead-up to COP28. Secretary Vilsack and Her Excellency Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, United Arab Emirates Minister of Climate Change and Environment, are confirmed keynote speakers.

Partners are invited to host engaging breakout sessions, present in an interactive exhibit hall, and facilitate tours for participants. The deadline to submit proposals for these activities is Thursday, Feb. 24. For more details on how to apply, visit the AIM for Climate Summit website https://summit.aimforclimate.org/event/e0545bfa-be7f-4992-8efe-39631e3c30e9/summary.



Case IH Adds New Models to Farmall Family of Tractors

Case IH is expanding the lineup of Farmall® N series tractors with two new models — the Farmall 90N and 120N — in addition to existing 80N, 100N and 110N tractors. All five Farmall N models offer new styling and advanced displays; upgraded cab comfort and controls; and improved fuel tank capacity. Reinforcing the brand commitment to emissions reductions, these tractors are improved to now meet Tier 4 B/Final emissions. The Farmall N series tractor is known for wide flexibility and a narrow footprint where space is at a premium, such as in orchards and vineyards.  

“The two latest additions to the Farmall N series lineup provide customers with expanded horsepower options built to tackle any job — all without breaking the bank,” said Greg Lucey, Case IH Farmall tractor marketing manager. “Specialty crop farmers need a dependable, versatile and narrow tractor. The Farmall N series can be customized to farmers’ exact needs, now with expanded power options to choose from.”

More models, more power
Now consisting of five models, the newly styled Farmall N series tractor lineup has engines ranging from 74 to 119 horsepower. The new Farmall 90N tractor boasts an engine with up to 85-horsepower and 75 PTO horsepower, while the Farmall 120N tractor has an engine that reaches up to 119-horsepower and 102 PTO horsepower.* With upgraded hydraulics and increased driveline to reduce fuel consumption, the Farmall N series tractors improve producers’ uptime and efficiency so they can spend more time in the field — where it matters.  

Designed to precisely and comfortably service operations where space is limited, the Farmall series tractors have a sturdy platform construction with an ISO-mount that reduces noise and vibration and includes fatigue-fighting features such as a tilt and telescoping steering column to make long days in the cab more comfortable.  

Standard safety features on all non-cab tractors include an adjustable vinyl seat with an operator-presence sensor, retractable seat belt and foldable mid-mounted roll bar for safety and maneuvering among low vines and tree limbs. Servicing a Farmall N series tractor is streamlined with uptime-boosting features like the no-tool battery and radiator access, as well as the ability to check engine oil without needing to lift the hood.

Building on the legacy of Farmall tractors
The two additions to the Farmall N series quickly followed the recent kickoff celebration of the 100-year anniversary of the Farmall tractor. This iconic tractor was introduced in 1923 as an all-purpose tractor designed to revolutionize the agriculture industry. Lucey remarked, “It’s an exciting time between expanding the Farmall family offerings and celebrating the anniversary. We are proud of this accomplishment and look forward to the next 100 years of evolving alongside our customers.”  



Case IH Introduces 6 New High-Horsepower AFS Connect Steiger Series Tractors

After almost 70 years of industry-leading performance, the lineup of Case IH Steiger® series tractors now includes six all-new high-powered models. Introduced to tackle the toughest farm and job site challenges, Steiger 425, 475, 525, 555, 595 and 645 tractors feature greater horsepower — the highest of any articulated 4WD tractor in the industry — as well as exceptional cab comfort and AFS Connect™ data management technology to deliver unmatched efficiency and high-tech functionality in one signature, hyperefficient machine. Taken together, these enhancements offer proven dependability while reinforcing the strength, simplicity and customizability that make the lineup of Steiger series tractor capable of handling any and all operational tasks for countless applications.  

“For generations, Steiger series tractors have been a household name across countless operations,” said Mitch Kaiser, Case IH marketing manager, Steiger and Quadtrac® tractors. “These new AFS Connect Steiger models will provide more power, torque, fuel efficiency and comfort — all while giving operators more options for seamlessly tracking, sharing and managing data with confidence.”

New maximum horsepower improves upon industry-leading strength, productivity
Strength, efficiency, simplicity and reliability — these factors have long made the Steiger series tractor ubiquitous among growers. Now, expansive power updates further improve upon a timeless design. With an industry-leading peak horsepower range of 467 to 699, the lineup of new AFS Connect Steiger series tractors provides operators with more power to address especially tough challenges through fields and job sites alike.

These improvements are made possible through all-new Stage V engine upgrades that improve engine response time by 50% while maintaining long service intervals. An updated fuel system with next-generation fuel injection equipment along with a new fuel lift pump improve and simplify fuel supply routing, while cooling and ventilation enhancements allow for efficiency at any horsepower. At the same time, Steiger series tractors equipped with AFS Connect offer lower emissions, helping operators remain environmentally responsible while maximizing uptime and reducing operational costs.   

These power updates come with two proven transmission options. Operators will once again be able to choose between the Patented Diesel-Saver™ Automated Productivity Management (APM) PowerDrive powershift transmission — which remains an industry leader in mechanical power and a perfect fit for tasks such as tillage and continuous high draft loads — and the innovative CVXDrive™ continuously variable transmission for effortless power transfer at any speed.

With new models providing extensive horsepower, comfort and data management improvements, the updated AFS Connect™ Steiger® tractor lineup offers greater customization and efficiency than ever before.

Exterior and in-cab overhauls create gold-standard comfort
Case IH developed Model Year 2024 Steiger series tractors to prioritize not only high-horsepower but also greater operator comfort. With ample upgrades to the exterior, visibility and cab interior, these new models will make long field days less demanding by putting convenience and luxury front and center.

“We know that extended time out in the field takes a toll on operators,” Kaiser said. “That’s why we’ve prioritized comfort upgrades, because we know in-cab convenience is just as important as in-field productivity. To that end, we’ve improved lighting conditions by 27% and visibility by 8% — all while boosting fuel economy and overall power.”  

The full list of cab updates include:
    Retooled cab top and subroof styling
    Integrated overhead grab rails for operator security
    Improved door handles for easier entry and exit
    A new premium sound option, with an amplifier, tweeters, 6.5-inch subwoofer with ported box and additional speaker grills
    Enhanced LED lighting package with greater output options for 360-degree night lighting visibility
    New front and upper-roof side RAM mounts for easier display mounting
    Additional front console storage

Technology implementation improves in-field performance
From remote monitoring to seamless data transferring, the AFS Connect Steiger series tractor has quickly set a new standard for connectivity and productivity. Now, new model upgrades further improve performance for more efficiency across a variety of applications.   

For instance, select Steiger series tractors can now be equipped with a second AFS Pro 1200 display for dual-display in-cab management to allow operators to view and monitor separate ISOBUS implements, such as planters, fertilizer bars, air seeders and more, simultaneously across the interface. Models also can be equipped with industry-leading AFS AccuSync™ machine coordination and AFS AccuTurn™ Pro technology — which allows for one-button push turns and delivers enhanced autoguidance capabilities — to create more efficient operation during long field days.

Steiger 425, 475, 525, 555, 595 and 645 tractors with AFS Connect are available now in select configurations — Quadtrac; Rowtrac™; scraper; and a chassis design for heavy-duty wheels — for use on tillage, planting, seeding, slurry, fertilizer, land leveling and other applications.



Case IH Updates Precision Air 5 Series Air Carts and Flex Hoe 900 Air Drills with Versatile New Features

Case IH recently introduced new productivity-boosting features to its Precision Air™ 5 Series air carts and Flex Hoe™ 900 air drills. Precision Air 5 Series carts help producers make the most of short seeding windows, while Flex Hoe air drills help them efficiently seed small grain in any ground conditions. New configurations, options and other features enhance productivity and versatility.

Producers can also boost their flexibility with liquid-fertilizer configurations for Precision Air 5 Series air carts. The liquid-ready tank includes a product lid and overflow line, 3-foot bottom suction port, tank rinse nozzle and site gauge.

The roller lineup has also been expanded to allow growers to plant almost any seed at any rate. The new sunflower roller applies oil-type sunflower seed at the consistency growers need. In addition, the fill system on the auxiliary tank has been redesigned with a gravity system, creating a faster, more intuitive and more uniform filling.

“These updates help producers get the most of every plant’s potential through highly accurate fertilizer and seed placement,” said Trent Nowosad, Case IH Seeding Marketing Manager. “Additional configurations and options add more versatility for a variety of crops and fertilizers.”

New Precision Air 5 Series air cart and Flex Hoe 900 air drill feature help producers cover a wide area more efficiently and make the most of short seeding windows.

With a number of agronomically designed features, the Flex Hoe 900 air drill is built to cover more acres, even in challenging conditions. New configurations and options increase productivity and versatility. A larger 80-ft. working width meets market demand to cover a wider area of the field for fewer passes. Redesigned air packs are easy to use, providing an optimized path for seed and fertilizer. And a high-floatation tire package with 340/60R15 radial implement tires improves travel in wetter soils and conditions with less compaction.

“Our goal is to help growers make the most of every season, soil and seed,” said Nowosad. “Updates to our Precision Air Series air carts and Flex Hoe air drills help make that happen with even more versatility and efficiency. Which means producers can do more work in less time and seed with the highest level of confidence.”