APPLY NOW TO ATTEND 2023 NEBRASKA AG YOUTH INSTITUTE
The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) is currently accepting applications for its biggest youth outreach event - the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute (NAYI). NAYI brings together hundreds of high school juniors and seniors for one week every year to learn more about Nebraska agriculture, network with ag leaders and discover the many careers available in agriculture.
NAYI will be held at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus July 10-14, 2023. Applications for NAYI are available at www.nda.nebraska.gov/nayi and must be submitted online. Students selected to attend NAYI do so free of charge due to generous donations from numerous agricultural businesses, commodity groups and industry organizations. Current high school juniors and seniors interested in attending have until April 15, 2023, to apply. This year’s theme is “For the Future.”
“NAYI is a long-standing tradition in Nebraska agriculture and a one-of-a-kind opportunity for high school students to connect with peers from around the state,” said NDA Director Sherry Vinton. “This week-long event is a creative and fun way for a new generation of ag enthusiasts to learn more about Nebraska agriculture and the many careers available in the industry. If you know high school juniors or seniors with an interest in learning about agriculture, be sure to encourage them to apply to NAYI before the April 15 deadline.”
NAYI is in its 52nd year, making it the longest running agricultural youth program of its kind in the nation. Approximately 200 students attend every year. NAYI features motivational speakers, discussions on agricultural issues, career development, networking opportunities, leadership activities, a farm management game, a formal banquet and awards presentation, and a dance. NDA selects students to attend NAYI based on their leadership skills, interests and involvement in agriculture.
NAYI is coordinated by the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council, which is comprised of 21 college-aged students selected by NDA for their passion and interest in the ag industry. The Council’s purpose is to provide young Nebraskans with a better understanding of agriculture, including agricultural opportunities available to today’s youth.
Bill would expand economic development efforts to rural communities
Continuing a trend that began during the COVID-19 pandemic, Center for Rural Affairs Policy Director Johnathan Hladik said more people are choosing to relocate to smaller communities, a wave that could open the door to reversing Nebraska's rural population decline.
On Tuesday, Hladik joined representatives from several economic development organizations to testify in support of Legislative Bill (LB) 515 during a public hearing before the Nebraska Legislature’s Banking, Commerce and Insurance Committee.
“Anyone listening to the national news knows that remote work opportunities, frustration with some of our urban schools, and persistent crime are some of the reasons a growing number of Americans are again looking to leave the urban centers,” Hladik said.
But, during the pandemic, he said many of those relocating settled in suburban communities, mainly because rural communities didn’t have necessities such as available housing and high speed internet readily available. Getting infrastructure in place requires a focus on economic development, and Hladik believes LB 515 could change that trend.
Introduced by Sen. Lynne Walz, the bill would establish the Rural Economic Development Initiative Act, a grant program to help economic development organizations expand services in rural areas. Funds would be prioritized for counties with a population less than 55,000 and communities designated as second class cities or villages.
“We think a coordinated economic development effort can help ensure our rural communities are ready for the next wave of relocation,” Hladik said.
Through discussions with the Greater Fremont Economic Council, Walz said she learned there’s a desire for economic development groups to have a greater outreach into smaller towns, but oftentimes they lack the funding to hire someone.
Her bill would provide grant funding to individual counties or economic development non-profit corporations operating within a county to hire up to one additional full-time employee for five years. That person would be required to provide services to one or more communities.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to put people in place to implement programs that will enhance economic development, enhance housing, health care, broadband and more across our state,” Walz said.
The senator estimates the $15 million designated in the bill would allow 50 communities to receive funding.
Hladik believes LB 515 is a proposal that will pay for itself, as there will be a staff person who can devote time to seeking out grant funding through new programs created by the federal Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Those programs, he said, have created at least 43 competitive grant opportunities for which counties are eligible to apply.
“Somewhere in the U.S., counties are going to receive this money and we want those counties to be located here in Nebraska,” Hladik said. “We have to consider how we can provide the help and support that some of our rural counties are going to need to succeed. We think LB 515 is a step in that direction.”
Fischer Announces Senate Committee Assignments for 118th Congress
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) today announced her committee assignments for the 118th Congress. Sen. Fischer will be joining the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, which helps shape the federal government’s spending policies.
“My positions on the Armed Services, Ag, and Commerce Committees have helped secure critical resources for families and communities across Nebraska. Joining the Appropriations Committee will make Nebraska even more of a powerhouse in the Senate.
“This new position will ensure Nebraskans have a stronger voice at the table when it comes to reining in irresponsible spending and fighting President Biden’s radical agenda.
“The people of our great state deserve responsible federal spending that invests in our military, takes care of our veterans, and helps family farmers continue to feed and fuel the world.
“I am committed to using all these committee assignments to continue delivering for Nebraskans every single day,” said Senator Fischer.
Sen. Fischer will continue to serve on the Senate Armed Services Committee, the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and the Senate Agriculture Committee. Senator Fischer also retained her membership on the Senate Rules Committee, where she will be Ranking Member.
Subcommittee assignments will be determined by the individual committees and released to the public at a later date.
Ricketts Announces Senate Committee Assignments
Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced his committee assignments for the 118th Congress with the following statement:
“Nebraska’s farmers, ranchers and small business owners are desperate for relief after two years of Democrat overregulation, and I’m eager to advocate aggressively on their behalf at the Committee on the Environment and Public Works. I also look forward to continuing the work I started as Governor representing our state’s interests on the global stage at the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. I’m especially honored by the unique opportunity to fight for older Americans on the Special Committee on Aging at a time when our nation’s seniors face ever-growing challenges keeping up with rising costs, attacks on their retirement savings, and unacceptable uses of technology for fraud and identity theft. I look forward to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make the most of each of these assignments to ensure I’m a voice for all Nebraskans.”
BACKGROUND
U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW) is responsible for legislation and oversight of the natural and built environment and for studying matters concerning environmental protection and resource conservation and utilization. The Committee touches on issues like
U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations is instrumental in developing, influencing, and overseeing U.S. foreign policy. The committee considers, debates, and reports important treaties and legislation, and holds jurisdiction over all diplomatic nominations.
U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging serves as a focal point in the Senate for discussion and debate on all matters relating to older Americans. Often, the Committee will submit its findings and recommendations for legislation to the Senate. In addition, the Committee publishes educational materials to assist older adults and operates a toll-free fraud hotline, that offers support to families victimized by con artists and track national trends.
Unverferth Announces Purchase of Orthman Manufacturing Inc.
Unverferth Manufacturing Co., Inc. is excited to announce the purchase of Orthman Manufacturing’s agricultural product lineup and the two manufacturing locations based in Lexington, NE. Manufacturing personnel and various support people will be offered employment with the new ownership.
Unverferth Manufacturing has a well-known reputation for building upon the several businesses it has acquired over the last 75 years. With that growth comes a commitment to the employees through industry-leading wages, health care and other benefits along with positive impacts on local communities. Unverferth Mfg. saw a natural fit with the culture, the people and the innovative, well-built products at Orthman Manufacturing. Major equipment and facility investments have been made at the Lexington locations over the past several years that present great opportunities for increased production.
John McCoy, Orthman preceding owner and company president, stated “I have the utmost confidence that Unverferth Manufacturing will continue growing the Orthman name and most importantly take care of the respective employees. The culture and innovative drive at Orthman is very similar to that of Unverferth Manufacturing”. McCoy retains ownership of the Orthman Conveying Systems business and is excited about the prospect of expanding that venture in the years to come.
Larry Unverferth, company president, remarked “Orthman’s founder, Henry Orthman, was much like my father in that they both began with small ideas and grew those ideas into world-class companies to help farmers become more efficient. Unverferth Manufacturing is looking forward to expanding upon the current workforce by building on the brand’s presence in the farming community and expanding product offerings in the months and years ahead”.
Unverferth Manufacturing operates three additional manufacturing facilities including the corporate headquarters in Kalida, OH, a Delphos, OH location, and one in Shell Rock, IA. The company also has eight sales and service branch facilities strategically located across North America.
Webinar: 2023 Crop Insurance Update from USDA
A leader with the Risk Management Agency for the United States Department of Agriculture will give an update on RMA and crop insurance topics during the Feb. 8 conservation webinar with Iowa Learning Farms.
Pamela Stahlke, director of the RMA St. Paul Regional Office, will speak at 12 p.m. Central time.
Pamela Stahlke.Stahlke is a long-standing USDA-RMA leader who serves farmers in Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Her group plays a key role in the agency’s mission of providing effective, market-based risk management tools and information for stakeholders including farmers, agricultural experts, insurance agents and Approved Insurance Providers, as well as providing ongoing improvement of and education regarding crop insurance policies.
Iowa Learning Farms is an Iowa State University Extension and Outreach conservation and water quality education program.
In the webinar, “Climate-Smart Agriculture and Crop Insurance – A 2023 Update,” Stahlke will discuss the role of the RMA office and what is new and updated in crop insurance for 2023.
She will also highlight climate-smart agriculture initiatives as well as discuss other topics including double cropping soybean expansion in Iowa, the Post Application Coverage Endorsement, availability of oat and rye revenue coverage, and details regarding how crop insurance policies work.
“Crop insurance provides an important farm safety net, and the RMA is dedicated to helping farmers understand and utilize these policies as well as helping them to learn about and incorporate climate-smart practices on their farms,” said Stahlke. “My goals with this session are to deliver crop insurance updates, provide participants with a better understanding of programs and initiatives that could benefit their operations and showcase ways we can work together in this public/private partnership.”
Participants are encouraged to ask questions of the presenters. People from all backgrounds and areas of interest are encouraged to join.
Webinar access instructions
To participate in the live webinar, shortly before noon CST Feb. 8:
Click this URL, or type this web address into your internet browser: https://iastate.zoom.us/j/364284172.
Or, go to https://iastate.zoom.us/join and enter meeting ID 364 284 172.
Or, join from a dial-in phone line by dialing +1 312 626 6799 or +1 646 876 9923; meeting ID 364 284 172.
The webinar will also be recorded and archived. All archived webinars are available on the ILF website, so that they can be watched at any time.
ILF has applied for a Certified Crop Adviser board-approved continuing education unit for attending this webinar. Those who participate in the live webinar are eligible. Information about how to apply to receive the CEU will be provided at the end of the live webinar.
Upcoming webinars in the series
On Wednesday, Feb. 15, Marshall McDaniel, associate professor of agronomy at Iowa State University, will discuss Directly Linking Soil Management and Eutrophication of Iowa Streams. Other upcoming webinars include:
Feb. 22: Greg LaBarge, The Ohio State University.
March 1: Justin Glisan, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
March 8: Adam Janke and Kay Stefanik, Iowa State University.
USDA Official Farah Ahmad to Address Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit
The Iowa Renewable Fuels Association (IRFA) is excited to announce Farah Ahmad, Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development, is joining the Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit on February 7.
Ahmad will speak about the USDA’s Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program, which provides grants to retailers to install the equipment necessary to offer higher blends of ethanol and biodiesel. The program, which recently received a major funding boost, has been instrumental in increasing consumer access to cleaner-burning, lower-cost biofuel blends. Ahmad will also address the Biden Administration’s broader policy agenda.
“IRFA is very excited to have Sec. Ahmad return to Iowa to share insights from the Biden Administration,” stated Iowa Renewable Fuels Association executive director Monte Shaw. “USDA continues to be a strong voice for the role biofuels can play in meeting our domestic energy needs in a cost-effective and environmentally-sound manner. We look forward to hearing the latest updates from DC.”
Ahmad has spent her career advancing policies and programs that promote economic inclusion and opportunities, starting with USDA in 2015 as a Program Manager with the Rural Business-Cooperative Service’s Community and Economic Development program. In 2017, Ms. Ahmad moved to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau where she served as Senior Program Coordinator. She also served as a Senior Policy Analyst for the Center for American Progress.
The Iowa Renewable Fuels Summit is taking place on February 7 at the Community Choice Convention Center at the Iowa Events Center. Attendance is free and open to the public, but registration is required. To register to attend and learn more, visit IowaRenewableFuelsSummit.org.
Corn Grower Leaders, Joined by Administration and Congressional Officials, Warn of Consequences from Mexico Decree, Call for Swift Action
During a congressional briefing today, corn growers told members of Congress and their staff that U.S. officials should continue to hold the line with Mexico over a proposed ban that would block most U.S. corn imports into that country. During the discussion, growers emphasized that the ban would land a significant blow to the American economy.
The statements included praise from corn growers for the Biden administration’s most recent action, which took a tough position with Mexico over the proposed ban.
Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador announced in late 2020 that he would implement a decree banning biotech corn into the country beginning in early 2024. The vast majority of U.S. corn is biotech. The briefing, hosted by the National Corn Growers Association, was held on the one-year mark from the decree’s effective date.
“This decree would cut most American corn growers off from what has historically been our largest export market,” NCGA President Tom Haag noted after the briefing. “That’s why it is extremely important that U.S. officials continue to ensure that Mexico lives up to its commitments under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement.”
Haag was joined on the panel by Andy Jobman, a farmer and chairman of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association; Representative Adrian Smith (R-Neb.); and Jason Hafemeister, acting deputy for trade at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The panelists talked about the important role biotech corn plays in crop production and the harm that would come if farmers were to move away from biotech corn.
“It would undermine the technology and the advancements that we’ve seen in our crop protection,” noted Jobman. “When it comes to improving soil health, using less energy, being more environmentally friendly and raising a much higher quality product, we can’t do that without biotechnology. It would be like getting rid of electricity and going back to candles.”
Others echoed Jobman’ s comments.
“Imagine if we didn’t have [biotechnology],” Smith noted. “We would have to rely more on chemicals, so [biotechnology] is good for the environment.”
According to forecasts, the ban on biotech corn would cause the U.S. economy to lose $73.8 billion over ten years in economic output along with 32,217 jobs annually with labor income falling $18 billion.
The Biden administration began talks with Mexican officials late last year and Mexico offered a revised decree. Last week, President Biden dispatched senior aides from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the office of the U. S. Trade Representative to Mexico City to meet with officials in the López Obrador administration.
In a statement following the meeting, USTR and USDA officials said the revised decree offered by Mexico to date was not sufficient. The officials said they made it clear to their Mexican counterparts that they are considering all options, including taking formal steps to enforce the issue under the USMCA.
Hafemeister said the administration is paying attention to the overarching decree, the fact that Mexico’s approval process for new varieties has been stopped and any related trade regulations that might place restrictions or channel those using biotechnology.
“We have been clear with the Mexicans that this really needs to be solved,” Hafemeister noted. “It’s not the kind of thing that is easily compromised because it is about science, it’s about the law, it’s about economics. So, we are asking them to look at those instruments and reform them.”
NCGA applauded the Biden administration for rejecting the most recent proposal, which would have undermined science-based regulatory principles, violated USMCA and set a negative global precedent. Panelists during today’s briefing echoed that sentiment.
Consumer Demand for Beef Remains Strong Among Inflation Woes, New Report Shows
According to the newly released “Today’s Beef Consumer” report from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, demand for beef continues to remain strong. The compilation of research from 2022, outlined below, shows that despite various challenges faced by the industry, consumers have repeatedly stated that they will continue purchasing beef, both in retail and foodservice settings.
Consumer Insights
Consumer demand for beef remains strong overall.[i] In fact, more than two-thirds of consumers reportedly eat beef on a weekly basis, or more.[ii] Inflation is certainly top of mind and more than three-quarters of consumers, 78%, report noticing an increase in the price of food whether at retail or foodservice.[iii] Beef however has experienced far lower levels of inflation when compared to other proteins in the “food at home” category[iv], which we will explore next.
Retail
During the pandemic consumers were forced to cook at home and many have continued to do so as it has become a popular way to make a dollar stretch and combat inflation. Analysis for the Today’s Beef Consumer report found 76% of meals are now cooked at home and 94% of consumers who are cooking more at home say they will continue to do so.iii In 2022 fresh ground beef accounted for 50% of volume of beef sales,[v] likely due to the lower price point as well as a renewed consumer interest in comfort foods and nostalgic recipes, like meatloaf. In 2022, meatloaf was also the most popular page on BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com with almost 1.7 million pageviews. This trend is expected to continue as a recent survey found that 20% of consumers say they plan to purchase more ground beef in the coming yeariii.
Foodservice
It is no surprise that beef sales at foodservice declined sharply in 2020 and 2021. In 2022, sales in both dollars and volume rebounded to surpass the pre-pandemic level of 2019.[vi]
Online Shopping
Another pandemic trend that seems to be here to stay is online shopping, both at retail and foodservice. 64% of consumers say they are ordering groceries online, with 44% of consumers including fresh beef in those grocery orders. When it comes to foodservice, online ordering has become overwhelmingly popular. 80% of consumers say they order meals online and 70% use online ordering for burgers.iii
Beef Substitutes
Fresh meat and beef substitutes continue to represent a small percentage of the market.v When it comes to protein sources, consumers consistently rank beef as a top source of protein.ii
As we head into 2023 demand for beef remains strong and consumers continue to purchase and order beef, whether in person or online. To view the entire study, click BeefResearch.org.
Annual Cattle Industry Convention Kicks Off
Nearly 7,000 cattle producers, industry partners and stakeholders have gathered in New Orleans for the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show. The convention, the largest in the beef industry, offers education, engagement and entertainment through February 3.
This year’s event kicked off with Franki Moscato, winner of the 10th Annual NCBA National Anthem Contest, singing the “Star-Spangled Banner.” Buzz Brainard, host of Music Row Happy Hour, returned as convention emcee and introduced surprise guest Archie Manning, patriarch of a professional football legacy and former quarterback of the New Orleans Saints. And “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan joined remotely to welcome cattlemen and women from across the country.
Over the next few days convention participants will gain insights on market trends and weather forecasts during the CattleFax Outlook Seminar, learn about the industry’s commitment to protecting environmental resources, supporting communities and creating an economically viable future during the Sustainability Forum, and hear an update on the beef business climate in the United States and around the globe.
Annual meetings of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, American National CattleWomen, CattleFax and National Cattlemen’s Foundation will also take place. In addition, the 2022 Environmental Stewardship Award regional winners will be recognized at a special reception. Before activities conclude on Friday, the Closing General Session will celebrate the Beef Checkoff-funded Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Program and BQA award winners and will feature inspirational keynote speaker Chris Koch.
The award-winning NCBA Trade Show will provide opportunities for producers to network, learn, shop, dine and connect with friends, both old and new. It will feature more than 350 exhibitors and displays across eight acres under one roof along with a variety of educational opportunities.
New in 2023, Cattle Chats will feature 20-minute beef industry educational sessions, with special spotlight sessions focusing on sustainability. Attendees can also stop in the Learning Lounge to enjoy informal, face-to-face talks in an intimate setting right on the trade show floor. Industry leaders will tackle topics such as ranch succession, effective probiotics, deworming protocols, animal welfare and tax trends.
The popular Stockmanship & Stewardship Demonstration Arena returns with stockmanship experts providing low-stress cattle handling demonstrations, BQA educational sessions, industry updates and facility design sessions. And the Chutes and Scales Showdown offers a side-by-side comparison of equipment where producers can watch cattle run through chutes then get hands-on experience.
New Orleans is the birthplace of Jazz, and entertainment will be around every corner. The Secret Cow on Thursday night will transport guests back to 1920s New Orleans for jazzy music, good food and great company. The country trio Chapel Hart will combine their Mississippi roots and Louisiana spice in a special performance during Closing General Session. Then, convention will wrap up Friday evening with “Party Gras” featuring the country music group Midland and special guest Neal McCoy.
Cattlemen’s College Draws Big Crowd in New Orleans
Cattle producers from across the country gathered in New Orleans for the 30th annual Cattlemen’s College, which was held prior to the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show. Cattlemen’s College, sponsored by Zoetis, is one of the cattle industry’s premier educational events and features live animal handling demonstrations and sessions with industry leaders tackling innovative topics.
Cattlemen’s College sessions highlighted trending hot topics, the latest in grazing as well as live cattle handling demonstrations. Six educational tracks and 18 sessions provided attendees with valuable information about reproduction technology, herd health, practical nutrition management, better beef business, sustainable grazing and the latest in genetics. The event concluded with a keynote presentation from Ray Starling, executive advisor for Aimpoint Research.
Starling discussed the power of knowledge and how producers should remain informed about current issues impacting the industry. He also talked about the value of teamwork and the importance of being involved with state and national cattle organizations.
Cattlemen’s College educational sessions included perennial favorites as well as innovative trends. A brand-new topic this year was silvopasture, a grazing practice that integrates livestock, forages and trees. Dr. Rocky Lemus and George Owens shared the science behind this sustainable grazing method and real-world perspectives of managing a silvopature system.
“Cattle Behavior in the Real World” was a popular draw with Dr. Dean Fish and Dr. Lily Edwards-Callaway providing practical solutions for producers to take back to their operations to improve stockmanship and enhance animal welfare.
Another well attended breakout was “Are You Brave Enough to Attend This Session?” featuring Rural Minds founder Jeff Winton who addressed the mental health crisis in rural America and provided solutions for producers to prioritize mental health, care for themselves and check in on neighbors.
On-demand videos of Cattlemen’s College sessions will be available online for registered attendees, and for a fee for non-attendees, following the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention & NCBA Trade Show at https://convention.ncba.org/events-meetings/cattlemens-college.
NCBA Announces 2023 Policy Priorities
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s (NCBA) executive committee approved the organization’s policy priorities at the 2023 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show, with a focus on advancing animal disease preparedness, protecting voluntary conservation programs, and defending producers from regulatory overreach.
“Our focus is helping to create opportunity for America’s cattle producers and fighting to make sure the federal government does not damage our industry,” said NCBA President-Elect Todd Wilkinson. “Cattle producers have been caretakers of the land and livestock for decades and are committed to conserving this country’s natural resources while producing high-quality beef.
NCBA’s policy priorities include:
Securing reauthorization of animal health provisions in the 2018 Farm Bill and advocating for expanded funding of the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank (NAVVCB) to protect against foot-and-mouth disease (FMD).
Protecting and funding EQIP, CSP and other voluntary conservation programs that incentivize science-based, active management of natural resources.
Protecting the cattle industry from regulatory attacks under Waters of the United States, the Endangered Species Act, emissions reporting and more.
“One of the biggest opportunities to help cattle producers in the coming year is passing the 2023 Farm Bill with continued investment in our national vaccine bank to protect the U.S. cattle herd from the threat of foot-and-mouth disease. Recently, we have seen other countries deal with the realities of animal disease outbreaks. American cattle producers are not going to be caught flat-footed – we are laser-focused on reducing risk and having the strongest response with a stockpile of vaccines that we have been building up since the 2018 Farm Bill,” Wilkinson said.
Weekly Ethanol Production for 1/27/2023
According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending January 27, ethanol production increased for the fourth consecutive week, rising 1.6% to 1.028 million b/d, equivalent to 43.18 million gallons daily. Production was 1.2% lower than the same week last year but 1.1% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate jumped 4.8% to 998,000 b/d, equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.30 billion gallons (bg).
Ethanol stocks tightened 2.5% to 24.4 million barrels. Stocks were 5.5% less than a year ago yet 0.9% above the five-year average. Inventories thinned across all regions except the Gulf Coast (PADD 3) and Rocky Mountains (PADD 4).
The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, climbed 4.3% to a five-week high of 8.49 million b/d (130.17 bg annualized). Demand was 3.2% more than a year ago but 1.5% below the five-year average.
Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol improved 1.0% to 838,000 b/d, equivalent to 12.85 bg annualized. Net inputs were 2.3% more than a year ago but 1.2% below the five-year average.
There were zero imports of ethanol recorded for the eighth consecutive week. (Weekly export data for ethanol is not reported simultaneously; the latest export data is as of November 2022.)
Average UAN28 Fertilizer Price Drops 9% During January 2023
Retail fertilizer prices continue to see significant price declines, according to prices tracked by DTN for the fourth week of January 2023. This trend has been in place since the beginning of the year. Seven of the eight major fertilizers are lower compared to last month. Of these seven, five fertilizers were substantially lower, which DTN designates as a price change of 5% or more.
Leading the way lower is UAN28. The nitrogen fertilizer was 9% lower in price compared to last month and had an average price of $523/ton. Potash, anhydrous and UAN32 were 7% less expensive looking back to last month. Potash had an average price of $714/ton, anhydrous $1,237/ton and UAN32 $630/ton. Urea was 6% lower in price compared to the prior month. It had an average price of $708/ton. Both DAP and MAP were slightly lower looking back to last month. DAP had an average price of $855/ton while MAP was $865/ton.
One fertilizer was just slightly higher in price compared to a month earlier. 10-34-0 had an average price of $754/ton.
On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.77/lb.N, anhydrous $0.75/lb.N, UAN28 $0.93/lb.N and UAN32 $0.98/lb.N.
All fertilizers are now lower compared to one year ago. DAP is 3% lower, both MAP and 10-34-0 are 8% less expensive, UAN32 is 10% lower, potash is 12% less expensive, UAN28 is 13% lower, anhydrous 17% less expensive and urea is 22% lower compared to a year prior.
NPPC Statement on Farm Bill Trade and Horticulture Hearing
The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) applauds the first Farm Bill hearing of the 118th Congress. We are pleased the Senate Agriculture Committee is taking up issues important to the pork industry. In 2021, the U.S. exported $8.1 billion worth of pork to more than 100 countries - increasing the average value of each pig marketed by nearly $63. These exports also support over 100,000 American jobs. Congress must provide strong investments in both the Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) programs. A wide swath of U.S. agricultural commodities have utilized these export promotion programs, generating a net return of $24.50 for every dollar spent and creating 225,800 full-and part-time jobs across the U.S. economy. We look forward to a Farm Bill that benefits our producers and every American.
USDA Fats and Oils: Oilseed Crushings, Production, Consumption and Stocks
Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 5.62 million tons (187 million bushels) in December 2022, compared with 5.68 million tons (189 million bushels) in November 2022 and 5.95 million tons (198 million bushels) in December 2021. Crude oil produced was 2.20 billion pounds down less than 1 percent from November 2022 and down 6 percent from December 2021. Soybean once refined oil production at 1.58 billion pounds during December 2022 decreased 3 percent from November 2022 and decreased 4 percent from December 2021.
Canola seeds crushed for crude oil was 181,455 tons in December 2022, compared with 180,750 tons in November 2022 and 176,931 tons in December 2021. Canola crude oil produced was 146 million pounds, up 1 percent from November 2022 and up 4 percent from December 2021. Canola once refined oil production, at 135 million pounds during December 2022, was down 7 percent from November 2022 and down 9 percent from December 2021.
Cottonseed once refined oil production, at 27.0 million pounds during December 2022, was down 27 percent from November 2022 and down 49 percent from December 2021.
Edible tallow production was 77.3 million pounds during December 2022, up 11 percent from November 2022 and up 16 percent from December 2021. Inedible tallow production was 362 million pounds during December 2022, up less than 1 percent from November 2022 and up 27 percent from December 2021. Technical tallow production was 99.7 million pounds during December 2022, down 20 percent from November 2022 and down 4 percent from December 2021. Choice white grease production, at 113 million pounds during December 2022, decreased 3 percent from November 2022 and decreased 8 percent from December 2021.
Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production
Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 474 million bushels in December 2022. Total corn consumption was down 5 percent from November 2022 and down 11 percent from December 2021. December 2022 usage included 91.9 percent for alcohol and 8.1 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 4.45 million bushels, up 1 percent from November 2022 but down 6 percent from December 2021. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 425 million bushels, was down 6 percent from November 2022 and down 11 percent from December 2021. Corn consumed in December 2022 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 92.0 percent and 8.0 percent, respectively.
Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.68 million tons during December 2022, down 6 percent from November 2022 and down 19 percent from December 2021. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.36 million tons in December 2022, down 7 percent from November 2022 and down 4 percent from December 2021.
Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 252,788 tons during December 2022, down 9 percent from November 2022 and down 11 percent from December 2021. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 188,584 tons in December 2022, down 8 percent from November 2022 and down 12 percent from December 2021.
Flour Milling Products
All wheat ground for flour during the fourth quarter 2022 was 229 million bushels, down 3 percent from the third quarter 2022 grind of 237 million bushels and down 2 percent from the fourth quarter 2021 grind of 235 million bushels. Fourth quarter 2022 total flour production was 107 million hundredweight, down 3 percent from the third quarter 2022 and down 1 percent from the fourth quarter 2021. Whole wheat flour production at 4.74 million hundredweight during the fourth quarter 2022 accounted for 4 percent of the total flour production. Millfeed production from wheat in the fourth quarter 2022 was 1.66 million tons. The daily 24-hour milling capacity of wheat flour during the fourth quarter 2022 was 1.58 million hundredweight.
NGFA outlines actions for improving transportation infrastructure
The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) today outlined recommended actions for Congress to incentivize better rail service, improve trucking capacity and continue modernizing U.S. inland waterways. NGFA submitted the comments for the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Feb. 1 hearing on the state of transportation infrastructure and supply chain challenges.
NGFA urged Congress and the Surface Transportation Board (STB) to take appropriate action to provide clearer rules to incentivize better rail service and prevent a repeat of rail service failures that escalated in 2022.
“The impact of unreliable rail service is felt across the NGFA membership, lowering production and increasing the cost of transportation of ethanol, biodiesel, soybean oil, soybean meal, flour, animal feed, meat and other products derived from grain and feed,” NGFA noted. “Too much of the cost of unreliable and unchallengeable rail service is borne by rail customers, agricultural producers and the general public.”
NGFA outlined its support for the following rail provisions:
• Congressional passage of another STB reauthorization, which expired in 2020, with an eye toward fostering competition in the freight rail system.
• The Reliable Rail Service Act, introduced by Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wisc., in the last Congress, to better define rail carriers’ common carrier obligation.
• STB’s pending reciprocal switching rules to enable the creation of rail-to-rail competition at qualifying interchanges.
• STB’s efforts to require additional data reporting, particularly for first-mile/last-mile rail service.
• STB rules to incentivize rail carriers to more efficiently use customer-owned railcars.
• Removing constraints on STB’s investigative authority.
• Expanding STB’s enforcement ability for rail carriers that do not comply with STB orders.
NGFA also urged Congress to add trucking capacity and efficiency by increasing truck weight limits and recommended congressional oversight of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) investments to modernize locks and dams. Barges on the Mississippi River and Columbia-Snake River Systems move about half of all grains to export grain elevators, NGFA noted, and critical farm inputs like fertilizer, feed and fuel are transported via the inland waterways system.
Giving Back to Help Grow Future Leaders through Give FFA Day
Individuals across the country can make a difference in the lives of the more than 850,000 FFA members this month by participating in Give FFA Day during National FFA Week.
For the eighth year, during National FFA Week, individuals will have an opportunity to step up and support FFA and agricultural education through Give FFA Day on Thursday, Feb. 23. Funds raised support various programs on local, state and national levels. During the 24 hours of giving, donors can donate to National FFA and the state FFA associations of their choice.
In February, we will celebrate FFA, advisors and members as part of National FFA Week, which includes giving back during Give FFA Day. For more than 90 years, the National FFA Organization has strived to make a difference in students' lives. Donations help FFA grow the next generation of leaders. Through FFA, members can find their paths to success.
With a membership of more than 850,000, there is a need for sustained funding to provide valuable programs, events, skills training and more; through generous supporters like those on Give FFA Day, FFA members can thrive.
"Every ounce of help and support makes a huge difference in the lives of every single FFA member across the nation," said Mary Ann Fox, an Iowa state FFA officer. "The experiences you are supporting help make members ready for the next step in their lives."
This year, the organization aims to raise $500,000 during the 24 hours of Give FFA Day. FFA hopes to achieve this by challenging everyone to contribute throughout the day with a goal of having 2,000 donors participate.
RFD-TV has generously pledged to match the first $100,000 in donations on Give FFA Day. "No one does a better job of preparing leaders for the next generation than FFA," Patrick Gottsch, president of Rural Media Group Inc., said. "For 22 years now, RFD-TV has supported FFA in every way possible, and I am so proud to be associated with the best of America's youth. Anyone who donates to FFA with their time or money can be assured that it is going to be a great investment."
In addition, American Family Insurance and John Deere will also match donations on Give FFA Day. Matching details will be announced throughout the day.
"Donors at every level ensure we continue to grow the future leaders of agriculture and the world," said Kimberly Coveney, the annual fund manager for the National FFA Foundation. "Give FFA Day is an opportunity for each FFA supporter to magnify their impact on the lives of young people when they join other donors across the country. Every gift makes a difference, and we are grateful for our donors and their continued support and belief in FFA and agricultural education."
To prepare for Give FFA Day, visit FFA.org/GiveFFADay. See how you can give back to the organization and encourage others to do the same.
Case IH Celebrates 100 Years of Farmall, The One For All
Today, Case IH kicks off celebrations honoring the 100-year anniversary of the Farmall® tractor. The iconic Farmall model was introduced in 1923 as the all-purpose tractor designed to revolutionize the agriculture industry. Over the last century, Farmall has evolved to meet farmers’ needs across the globe with each milestone, making it “The One For All.”
"In 1923, we set out to design a tractor that could replace horses, and today, our Farmall still serves as the workhorse on farms across the globe,” said Scott Harris, Case IH global brand president. “Generation after generation, Farmall has been a symbol of modern farming, and we’re excited to bring these stories to life over the course of 2023.”
During the yearlong celebration, Case IH will be giving away a brand-new Farmall 75C tractor to one lucky winner who shares their passion and story about how Farmall has helped shape their farm over the years or how it’s become part of the family. The contest launches during National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Trade Show on Feb. 1, 2023, and the winner will be announced at the National FFA Convention on Nov. 1, 2023.
Major milestones for Farmall include:
1923: International Harvester engineer Bert R. Benjamin designs the first Farmall prototype
1931: The F series is presented for farmers with more acreage
1939: Second-generation Farmall designed by Raymond Loewy
1941: Farmall introduces the world’s first diesel row crop tractor
1947: The 1 millionth Farmall rolls off the line
1958: The most popular tractor in the U.S., the Farmall 560 is introduced
1965: Farmall is the first 2WD row crop tractor to exceed 100 horsepower
1974: Case IH sells its 5 millionth Farmall – the first tractor to ever reach that number
2003: Case IH continues to expand the lineup of products spanning from 31 to 105 horsepower
The legacy of Farmall continues today with more than 30 models to choose from, and this iconic tractor series will continue to evolve alongside the customers who made this milestone possible.
“Even before this anniversary, the team at Case IH was always reminded of the passion for Farmall from customers and dealers. Iconic only begins to describe it,” remarked Kurt Coffey, Case IH vice president of North America. “We are proud to have 100 years of Farmall as our legacy. It’s a tractor that’s been revolutionary to farms of all sizes across the globe. Well-worn, well-loved: this is a tractor like no other.”
For more information on the yearlong celebration of the 100th anniversary of Farmall and the contest details of a Farmall tractor, visit Farmall100.com.
Zoetis and Select Sires Inc. Partner to Help Cattle Producers Apply Data for Strategic Decision-making
Zoetis is excited to announce its partnership with Select Sires Inc. to help cattle producers gain more from data. The partnership provides a grid marketing service, GeneNet, which will provide Performance Livestock Analytics customers a designated marketing platform to communicate and promote the value of their cattle. Select Sires’ farmer-owners will gain value with access to the Precision Animal Health portfolio from Zoetis, including beef genetic testing and Performance Livestock Analytics software.
The GeneNet grid marketing service negotiates fed-cattle pricing based on carcass characteristics including quality and yield grade. With this partnership, Performance Livestock Analytics customers will receive an exclusive offer to use GeneNet’s competitive marketing grids and gain bargaining power for the quality cattle they raise, plus carcass data on those cattle.
“This partnership creates a winning opportunity for producers,” said Justin Sexten, head of Industry and Network Partnerships, Precision Animal Health, Zoetis. “GeneNet allows cattle feeders to leverage their animal data from our management software to strategically market their investment in quality genetics and exceptional management. This information arms them with collective negotiation power on GeneNet’s marketing grids to communicate to buyers the value of their cattle.”
Cloud-based software developed by Performance Livestock Analytics, part of Zoetis, helps digitize cattle records and turn data into actionable insights to inform strategic decisions regarding health, genetics, marketing and financials.
Sandra Utter, GeneNet manager at Select Sires Inc., said the collaboration with Zoetis will help drive better genetic and management decisions to breed and market quality cattle.
“Because Select Sires is positioned at the front and back end of the beef production chain, we can help beef producers capture and analyze data that allows them to create, measure, manage and make changes to increase profitability from conception to consumption,” Utter said. “Data captured in Performance Beef can help us evaluate cattle performance in the feedlot and provides the necessary history and genetic makeup critical to successfully marketing on GeneNet grids.”
Through this partnership with Select Sires, Zoetis will begin the development of connecting the carcass data to the digital ecosystems for Performance Livestock Analytics and BLOCKYARD™ to enable more seamless management and genetics decision-making tools. This integration will provide participating customers access to valuable carcass data within their current platform for Performance Beef®. This will help minimize data entry and also provide producers insights into how their use of elite genetics is performing on the rail and adding value.
Select Sires customer, Trent Winter, of Wintergreen Farms in Clifton, Kansas, has benefited from marketing cattle through GeneNet. He emphasized the need for data to make good marketing decisions.
“Without the data, it’s hard to see the progress or know the areas to improve,” Winter said.
From the carcass data Wintergreen Farms received from GeneNet, they made sire selection adjustments to improve their cattle’s marbling ability and ultimately optimize both premiums and yields on the grid.
For Zoetis and Select Sires customers interested in learning more about competitive and profitable marketing opportunities for their cattle, visit GeneNetBeef.com.
University Products Helps Embattled Cattle Ranchers Forced to Sell Herds During Current Inflation Siege; Offers Fixed Price Anaplasmosis Vaccine for Inevitable Seasonal Cattle Illness
University Products LLC offered an important lifeline to cattle ranchers currently battling both rising feed prices and surges in fuel and other expenses due to widespread global inflation. After a full year of contending with soaring feed/fuel/medicine costs and brutal summer droughts, ranchers are looking for any sign of relief. Fortunately, University Products announced that vaccinating herds against the inevitable tide of upcoming seasonal anaplasmosis infections is one expense that has not increased.
University Products produces the only effective vaccine against anaplasmosis that is approved for experimental use and has been successfully deployed in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and South America for over two decades. And in an effort to remain affordable and accessible to ranchers across the globe, University Products has kept their vaccine costs at the same rate for over five years.
"We all know that inflation is felt most keenly in the fuel and food production delivery chains," said Dr. Donald Luther, University Products vaccine developer. "Inflation is an old enemy of farmers and ranchers who are no stranger to having to contend with what the market sends their way. But the past year or so has been particularly harsh. This financial assault on all fronts has even forced many cattle ranchers to sell off herds just to stay afloat. And while beef production and prices are temporarily up due to these selloffs, that increase in price goes mostly to the big corporate meatpackers. Not to the ranchers themselves."
"Another expense coming up, one that is absolutely unavoidable, is seasonal protection against old enemies like endemic anaplasmosis," explained Dr. Luther. "From testing kits, diagnosis, quarantines, and sustained and costly symptom treatment through increasingly ineffective antibacterial-feed therapies, the ongoing anaplasmosis problem costs ranchers hundreds of millions in revenue every year – reaching 'critical impact levels in many regions' across the U.S. and driving up average cow culling rates by 30% or more."
"Our anaplasmosis vaccine is a purified antigen of the organism that actually causes the problem in cattle: A. marginale," Dr. Luther said. "Rather than traditional approaches like fighting infection after it happens with antibiotics, our vaccine contains the organism that has been inactivated so it cannot infect cells and replicate, but can still trigger an immune response. And it is especially important to vaccinate against this specific organism, while keeping up with yearly booster shots. Infected cows continue to be disease vectors – acting as reservoirs of infected blood for both insects and poorly cleaned needles used on the cattle. Anaplasmosis is endemic. That's just a fact. Which is why we tell our clients truthfully: the only safe herd is a fully vaccinated herd. So we're happy to help them be able to afford to do that."
Wilbur-Ellis Launches Second Annual Innovation Award for College Students
Wilbur-Ellis today announced the launch of the second annual Wilbur-Ellis Innovation Award.
The program invites student teams from colleges and universities in the U.S. and Canada to propose innovative approaches for providing food for more people – a critical imperative, since the world population is expected to increase by 2 billon people by 2050. The best idea will win a $25,000 grand prize and up to four $5,000 honorable mention awards may also be presented in 2023.
In the first Wilbur-Ellis Innovation Award program in 2022, more than 120 students working in over 30 teams participated – with the Kansas State University Entomology Team winning the grand prize. Their submission explored using bacteria to give insects plastic degrading abilities, turning plastic waste into biomass for a variety of productive uses. Four additional teams were recognized with honorable mention awards for ideas that explored enhancing the honey bee population, the potential of basalt to improve soil health, an alternative way to produce meat, and expanding ocean farming.
Students can learn more about the award on the Wilbur-Ellis Innovation Award website (which can be accessed from the Wilbur-Ellis website at www.wilburellis.com). The Innovation Award website provides e-cards that can be sent to students who might like to participate, as well as a video featuring last year's winners and summaries of their submissions.
The Innovation Award was created as a continuing legacy of the company's 100th anniversary in 2021. "Wilbur-Ellis is a company with a long, rich history," said John Buckley, Wilbur-Ellis President and Chief Executive Officer. "For over 100 years we have worked with our customers and suppliers to feed the world. But we're always looking ahead, and the Wilbur-Ellis Innovation Award reflects our focus on the future. With this program, we're supporting innovative ideas in agriculture and food production, and we're encouraging young people to join us in this important work."
Because the Innovation Award is for student teams, it also promotes collaboration. "The challenges the world is facing are so complex that it will take a wide range of partners working together to find solutions," Buckley said. "We work with partners every day in our business, and we want to give students the opportunity to see what can be achieved when a diverse group of people work together on a big idea," he added.
Registration for Student Teams Is Now Open – With Early Birds Getting 10 Extra Points!
Student teams can register now to participate in the 2023 Wilbur-Ellis Innovation Award by visiting the website at www.wilburellis.com/innovation-award/. Teams that register by March 31, 2023, will have an extra 10 points added to their submission's final score.
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