Thursday October 17 Ag News

 Central Valley Ag Pays $8.6 Million of Revolving Equity Payments to Member-Owners

Central Valley Ag (CVA) continues to give back to its member-owners by providing equity payouts. This year, the CVA Board of Directors approved $8.6 million dollars in Revolving Equity payouts for 2012.

Equity is returned to member-owners in the form of redeemed equity. The amount of revolving equity producers receive depends on the amount of business they do in a given fiscal year; this year that is 2012. Producers will see their investment into the cooperative come back to them throughout their career and CVA is grateful for the opportunity to share with them its success.

“As a cooperative, we are proud to fulfill our commitment to returning value to our member-owners,” said Carl Dickinson, CEO of CVA, “By distributing equity, we not only honor the contributions of our members but also strengthen our cooperative’s foundation for future growth and shared success. Your trust and investment continue to drive us forward, ensuring the long-term prosperity of both our members and the communities we serve.”

In addition to cash patronage, the co-op has earnings that are reserved for later distributions. In the short-term, these equity dollars are an investment by members in their co-op and can be used by the co-op to make capital improvements, which further grow the business or make the co-op more efficient.

"Our members' loyalty is the foundation of our success," said Dickinson. "It's an honor to be able to share profits with them.”



UNL Student research on supplemental fat and feedlot diets

University of Nebraska-Lincoln feedlot nutrition and management doctoral student Anna Kobza is researching supplemental fat in feedlot diets. Part of her research is looking at the use of palm oil as a supplemental fat and the other part is looking at how a feed additive can improve the digestibility of fat.

“Fat is commonly fed to increase the energy density of the diet without increasing the starch content, which comes from grain,” Kobza said. “Reducing the starch content reduces the risk for digestive disorders.”

So far Kobza’s data is suggesting that palm oil is a viable alternative to current sources of fat such as corn oil and tallow. Digestion trials are still ongoing for the feed additive.

Aside from Kobza’s research project, she is also the research coordinator for metabolism and digestibility labs. The extensive beef research that happens at the university is shared with producers across Nebraska by Extension educators. Extension educators also help communicate problems producers are having back to the researchers so they can work to create a solution.

“Our goal is to help the producers in our state do what they do better and provide them resources to understand how to do that,” Kobza said.



Ag Smart Money Week: Free Events November 4-8

Ag $martMoney Week, Nov. 4-8, 2024, is a program focused on providing education, information, tools, and training for agricultural producers in Nebraska to better manage and improve their operations. Free workshops, tools, resources, and information will be provided via in-person and online meetings.

Areas covered include topics related to finances, cost of production, risk management, land leasing and rental rates, and more.

The goal of this Week will be to provide education, information, and tools for agricultural producers to help with their operations.

Family Living Expenses Series offers hybrid events

Ag Smart Money Week 2024 includes a special Ag Family Living Expenses series at noon CT on Nov. 4, 6, and 8. They are designed to provide valuable insights and practical tools for farmers, ranchers, and their families to effectively manage family living finances. These hybrid events will be presented online via Zoom and offer in-person experiences at five locations across Nebraska:
Fullerton — Nance County Events Center, 406 N Ida St.
Grand Island — Nebraska Building/Raising Nebraska, 501 E. Fonner Park Road, Suite 100
North Platte — Lincoln-Logan-Mcpherson County Extension Office, 348 W. State Farm Road
Scottsbluff — Panhandle Research, Extension, and Education Center, 4502 Ave. I
West Point — Cuming County Courthouse (lower-level meeting room), 200 S. Lincoln St.

Schedule Summary
Date    Time    Topic    Virtual    In-Person
Nov. 4     Noon CT     Budgeting Family Living into Cost of Production  
Nov. 4     7 p.m. CT     Understanding Annual Cow Costs      
Nov. 5     Noon CT     Current Trends in Nebraska Land Values, Cash Rents & Lease Considerations for 2025      
Nov. 6     Noon CT     Savings and Investments for Farm and Ranch Wellbeing  
Nov. 6     6:30 p.m. CT     2025 Cost of Production and Using the ABC Program for Your Operation  
Nov. 7     Noon CT     Smart Savings for Thanksgiving: Managing Rising Food Prices Amid Inflation      
Nov. 8     Noon CT     Navigating Debt: Strategies for Farms and Ranches  

Details and registration information is here: https://cap.unl.edu/smartmoney.  



HUNTING RIGHTS AND LAND LEASES
– Shannon Sand, NE Extension Educator

Amid market volatility, some producers may be exploring additional income opportunities. One potential option they’re considering is hunting. A common question for those leasing land is: who holds the hunting rights?

In a written cropland or pasture lease, it’s possible to specify who has hunting rights. If the lease doesn’t explicitly reserve hunting rights for the landlord, those rights typically belong to the tenant for the lease term.

In Nebraska, property owners have the right to inspect their properties to ensure compliance with the terms of the lease. This includes checking for proper maintenance of fencing, adherence to environmental guidelines, and any other lease-specific conditions. However, these inspections typically require prior notice to tenants and should be conducted at reasonable times.

In cases where the lease is unwritten, hunting rights usually default to the tenant, unless otherwise agreed upon by both parties. This principle is based on the idea that, without specific restrictions, the tenant has the full right to use the land—excluding others, including the landlord—during the lease period. This may come as a surprise to some landowners, who might assume they automatically retain certain property rights that, in reality, pass to the tenant.



The Next Generation of Farmers & Ranchers- How to Transition Your Operation

What happens if your family’s ranching or farming operation is unable to transfer to the next generation?  Now is the time to start (or finish) your transition!  On November 12 and 13, workshops will be held at O’Neill and Hartington to help families navigate the common landmines including legal, financial, and communication issues.

The aim of the program is to provide reliable information to assist families to put together succession plans, or review their existing plans.  Experienced experts will cover issues around agriculture law, management, finance, and communication.

Anxiety and the “what ifs” can immobilize transition. Farmers and ranchers will understand the consequences of the “what ifs” and how to avoid them. Some examples include: What if I don’t have a written lease; what happens if there is no will; what if the on-farm heir(s) needs to buy out siblings; what if the older generation need long term care; what if I must pay taxes?

Joe Hawbaker, estate planning attorney, will also cover tools for long term viability of the ranch.  There are a variety of tools, such as business entities, options, lease rights, preemptive rights and buy-sell agreements, that could help your transition go smoothly.  

Transition of the land is important, but farmers and ranchers should work to transition the business as well.  Dave Goeller, financial planner and retired Nebraska Extension transition specialist, will cover succession versus equality, and compensation versus contribution. Many families struggle to split assets fairly between on-farm and off-farm heirs, while continuing the farm/ranch as a business. Goeller will discuss the “family” side and what to consider when dividing assets.

Following the workshops at O’Neill and Hartington, participants can discuss their individual operations at one-on-one confidential consultations with Hawbaker and Goeller through Nebraska’s Rural Response Hotline’s free monthly clinics.

Below are workshop dates and locations.
      Nov 12: O’Neill: Holt County Annex Building, 128 N 6th Street, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. CT;
      Nov 13, Hartington: City Auditorium, 101 N Broadway Avenue, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. CT.

Sign up today!  This program walks you through the confusing process of estate planning free of charge.  Registration is appreciated for a meal count, but walk-ins are welcome!  Register by calling the Rural Response Hotline at 1-800-464-0258 or visit https://nebraskagrazinglands.org .

Workshops are hosted by the Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition, Legal Aid of Nebraska, and Nebraska Extension.  Thanks to Tri County Banks and Farmers Union Foundation for their sponsorship.  Funding for this project was provided by a NFWF grant.

If you need help with the financial burden of planning for the next generation, the Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition has assistance.  Apply for a scholarship to help with estate planning fees, mediator fees, or other expenses.  For more information, go to https://nebraskagrazinglands.org/Programs/Program-Assistance .



Dairy Sweet Becomes Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest Winner
    
Dairy Sweet, located in Dunlap, Iowa and owned by Lori and Greg Thomsen, has claimed the title of Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin in 2024. This marks a triumphant return to a legacy that began in 2005 when the restaurant first won under the ownership of Lori’s parents. Lori and Greg purchased Dairy Sweet from her parents in 2013 and made a strategic move to Main Street, allowing her to not only enhance the restaurant's visibility but also its reputation for serving some of the finest pork tenderloins in the state.

The Iowa Pork Producers Association conducts the Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest each year. This spring, the IPPA garnered nearly 6,000 nominations from 532 restaurants across the state. Members and industry affiliates anonymously visited the top 40 locations this summer, scoring each on pork flavor, quality, presentation, and overall dining experience. The Restaurant & Foodservice Committee utilized these evaluations to narrow the field to five worthy contenders. A team of judges then visited each establishment to determine the top two winners. Dairy Sweet is the first restaurant to win the title more than once in the entire 22 year history of the contest.

Lori and her husband Greg have refined the tenderloin recipe over the years, shifting to using center-cut boneless pork loin for a consistent, quality sandwich. In addition, they cut and tenderize the loins in-house each week. This commitment to quality is evident in the staggering number of tenderloins they serve—approximately 40,000 annually. This dedication not only satisfies local patrons but also attracts visitors from nearby towns and beyond.

“It is a privilege for us to win, not only for ourselves but for our employees who take pride in their work and making our community happy,” Lori shared. Her commitment to her family, team and community is palpable, and it fuels the hard work that has gone into making Dairy Sweet a local staple.

Judge Phil Carey, who evaluated the top five tenderloin eateries, had high praise for the winning sandwich. He remarked, “When we walked into the restaurant, and saw that most of the customers were eating a breaded pork tenderloin… That’s how you know you’re in the right spot. Then tasting it the sandwich had great flavor, was very tender, and the light breading worked very well with the pork.” Carey's insights reflect not only the quality of the food but also the atmosphere that Dairy Sweet cultivates, where diners are clearly satisfied.

For Lori, this victory carries a bit more emotional significance. “Hard work does pay off. My parents have both passed on, so this is such a cool way to honor and remember them. It makes me very proud,” she said, highlighting the personal connection she feels to the restaurant’s legacy. This win is not just about the award; it's a tribute to her family's hard work and dedication to the community both in the past, and currently as she brings her kids Mandi & Logan into the family business.

Dairy Sweet offers a cozy dining experience, accommodating around 60 patrons at a time. The restaurant is open seven days a week, closing only a few days each year, ensuring that it remains a reliable destination for delicious meals. The staff is known for their hospitality and efficiency, traits honed through their experience running the café at the Dunlap Livestock Auction, where they thrive in a bustling environment.

The Iowa Pork Producers Association is thrilled to officially present the coveted Iowa’s Best Tenderloin Award for 2024 at Dairy Sweet later today! This celebrated eatery will take home a $500 cash prize, a stunning plaque, and a banner to showcase their achievement.

This year’s runner-up is Ruby’s Bar & Grill, hailing from Stuart, Iowa. They'll receive a $250 prize along with a plaque from the IPPA. Earlier this month, we also recognized several other outstanding finalists, who will receive top five plaques in alphabetical order:
    Bronson Bar - Bronson
    Blind Pig - Monticello
    The Market at the Tap - Monticello

This tenderloin contest celebrates Iowa restaurants that feature hand-breaded or battered pork tenderloin as a staple on their menu. To qualify, establishments must be open year-round. Winners are unveiled every October in honor of National Pork Month, which pays tribute to the hard work and dedication of America’s pork producers.



Soil Compaction Field Day to Be Held Nov. 15 at AEA Research Farm near Boone

Yield effects of soil compaction can be masked by moisture availability, timing of rainfall and fertilizer use under favorable weather conditions. Under unfavorable weather conditions, yield loss has been reported to be as high as 10 to 20 percent.

Soil compaction resulting from farm machinery and field traffic, ways to minimize compaction and strategies to mitigate soil compaction that may have already occurred will be demonstrated and discussed at a field day scheduled at the Iowa State University Agricultural Engineering/Agronomy Research Farm near Boone on Nov. 15.

The field day starts with check-in at 10 a.m. at the Field Extension Education Laboratory located at 1928 240th St., Boone, and the program starts at 10:30 a.m. In case of inclement weather, the field day will be held at the same time on Nov. 22.

In the afternoon, demonstrations of field equipment, including tractors, will be held at the field adjacent to the Soil Machine Dynamics Laboratory. Equipment will be driven over a specially constructed soil “lasagna” to demonstrate the amount of compaction caused by different tires and tire inflation pressures, noted Kapil Arora, field agricultural engineer with ISU Extension and Outreach. Soil pressure sensors, buried at different depths, will also be used to measure tire inflation pressure response.

A complimentary lunch sponsored by the Iowa Corn Growers Association will be served at noon to all registered participants. Registration is limited to 50 participants and is required for this event. The field day is being held in collaboration with AgriBrink, CNH Industrial and Elder Corporation.

Join the field day to watch and learn how tire technologies, tire pressures and tracks can impact soil compaction, and explore practices to manage it. Register online by Nov. 11 here https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ai5KFKvyJtYrt9Y.

You can also register by calling the ISU Extension and Outreach Boone County office at 515-432-3882, or by email at jlsoder@iastate.edu. Questions regarding the program can be directed to Kapil Arora at 515-291-0174 or Mehari Tekeste, associate professor, at 515-294-2464.



Sorghum Checkoff Announces Leadership Sorghum Class VII

The United Sorghum Checkoff Program (USCP) announces the members of Leadership Sorghum Class VII. This program, hosted by the USCP, is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders and advocates for the sorghum industry.

"The strength of the sorghum industry depends on developing leaders who can advocate for its future," said Kendall Hodgson, USCP Chairman. "With growing demand and evolving challenges in agriculture, Leadership Sorghum plays a vital role in preparing producers to represent and promote our industry with knowledge and confidence."

Seventeen farmers from nine states have been selected to participate in the program’s seventh class:
Nicholas Bridgeforth - Tanner, Alabama
Dylan J. Moyer - Irvington, Illinois
Jared Stegman - Dodge City, Kansas
Lesley Schmidt - Spearville, Kansas
Sydney Bacon - Salina, Kansas
Weston Schmidt - Syracuse, Kansas
Bryan Thomas - St. Charles, Missouri
Camden Liska - Verdigre, Nebraska
Brian Null - Hobart, Oklahoma
Kyle Supplee - Thompsontown, Pennsylvania
David Gunter - Lexington, South Carolina
Carson Polasek - Tynan, Texas
Daniel Sell - Booker, Texas
Heath Heinrich - Slaton, Texas
Matthew Bartek - La Grange, Texas
Reagan Ivey - Robstown, Texas
Will Braack - Hereford, Texas

"Leadership Sorghum is instrumental in shaping the future of our industry by equipping producers with the skills and knowledge needed to lead and advocate at every level," said Shelee Padgett, Leadership Sorghum program director. "The leaders we develop today are vital to ensuring the success and growth of the sorghum industry tomorrow. We are excited to work with Class VII as they embark on this journey to strengthen both their operations and our collective voice."

Through a combination of hands-on experiences and classroom-style learning, participants will gain insight into the sorghum value chain, the role of checkoffs and advocacy groups in supporting the industry and the future outlook for the crop. Leadership Sorghum also offers opportunities for professional development and networking. The first session will take place Dec. 10-12, 2024, in Lubbock, Texas, during the USCP Board meeting. For more details about the Leadership Sorghum program, visit www.LeadSorghum.com.



Cattle Prices Creeping Higher
David Anderson, Ph.D., Extension Specialist – Texas A&M University

Fed cattle prices have been climbing, slowly, following the market correction that began in late July-early August. After falling from a high of $197.09 to $181.18 per cwt. the 5-market weekly average has climbed back to $186.89 over the last 4 weeks. Prices were in the $188 range later during the week ending October 4th.

Normally, fed cattle prices increase, seasonally, in the Fall. A 10 year seasonal fed cattle price index would suggest that prices increase about 5 percentage points from September to November. Of course, last year was an exception to that when prices declined during the Fall. It’s not unusual for fed cattle prices to hit their high for the year in the Fall but, that would require a faster pace of increase than seen, so far.

Prices continue to creep higher in the face of larger beef production and a cutout value that has been at or below last year’s level. Fed steer and heifer slaughter is 1.2 percent higher than last year over the last 9 weeks. Fed steer weights continue to increase and are at record highs. Federally inspected dressed weights hit 948 pounds for the week ending October 4th and are not likely at their Fall peak yet. Heifer dressed weights are not quite at record highs, about 2 pounds away from a record. The combination more fed cattle going to market and record high weights means that beef production has exceeded that of a year ago for the last 9 consecutive weeks. The increase in fed beef production continues to offset the decline in beef and dairy cow beef production.

Adding to the beef production equation is the percent of beef grading Choice. Almost 73 percent of beef graded during the first week of October graded Choice. That is a 2.5 percentage point increase over a year ago. For the last 9 weeks a larger percentage of beef graded was Choice compared to a year ago. Combine increased fed steer and heifer slaughter, larger dressed weights, and more grading Choice means that total supplies of Choice beef are greater than a year ago. More beef is grading Prime than last year also, contributing to greater supplies of Prime beef than last year. Supplies are likely keeping a lid on the cutout value making the slow increase in fed cattle prices a little more impressive.



Meat Institute to USTR: Meat & Poultry Industry Needs Ambitious Trade Policy Agenda
 
In comments submitted to the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) for the 2025 National Trade Estimate Report, the Meat Institute called for an ambitious and comprehensive trade policy agenda to be paired with removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers to promote the growth and stability of the meat and poultry industry.

“The resilience of the U.S. meat and poultry industry is inextricably linked to U.S. trade policy and attendant initiatives that foster U.S. meat and poultry export growth,” said Julie Anna Potts, Meat Institute President and CEO. “However, the industry’s export potential remains limited by unjustified sanitary barriers, prohibitive tariffs and tariff rate quotas, and onerous registration and approval requirements for exporting facilities, among other impediments.”

The comments detail the following facts and objectives for an ambitious trade agenda on behalf of the meat and poultry value chain:
    China Continues to Renege on Commitments Made in the U.S.-China Phase One Agreement
    Retaliatory Tariffs Remain on U.S. Meat Exports to China and Must be Discontinued
    Proactive Efforts to Address Foreign Animal Disease are Essential to Preserving Trade and Business Continuity
    Securing Beef Access to Australia Remains Critical
    Removing Ongoing Restrictions on Beef, Addressing Other Emerging Concerns are Necessary to Fully Implement KORUS (U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement)
    Despite Progress, Persistent Regulations Impede U.S. Beef and Pork Exports to Taiwan
    Sustainability Trade Text Should Advance Science, Outcomes-Based Approaches and Should Not Unduly Restrict Meat and Poultry Exports
    Increasing Establishment Registration Requirements Risk Undermining Market Access for U.S. Meat and Poultry Exports
    Beef Imports Support Domestic Production and Ease Supply Chain Pressures
    Precedent-Setting Protections for Common Meat Names Must be Replicated
    Market Diversification Through a Comprehensive Trade Policy Will Help Level the Playing Field for U.S. Meat and Poultry Exporters

“As competitors rapidly expand access through preferential trade agreements to growing and mature markets,” Potts said,  “the Meat Institute maintains that targeted efforts to eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers in key markets must be paired with an ambitious trade policy agenda that advances comprehensive trade agreements, which level the playing field for our exports, set clear standards and rules for trade, and provide predictability for American farmers, ranchers, and meat and poultry companies throughout the supply chain.”

Wednesday October 16 Crop Progress + Ag News

 NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending October 13, 2024, there were 6.9 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 38% very short, 48% short, 14% adequate, and 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 33% very short, 46% short, 21% adequate, and 0% surplus.

Field Crops Report:
Corn condition rated 4% very poor, 8% poor, 21% fair, 48% good, and 19% excellent. Corn mature was 94%, near 97% last year and 93% for the five-year average. Harvested was 45%, near 41% last year, and ahead of 35% average.

Soybeans harvested was 70%, ahead of 65% last year and 62% average.

Winter wheat planted was 96%, near 95% last year and 92% average. Emerged was 69%, behind 79% last year, but near 68% average.

Sorghum condition rated 1% very poor, 5% poor, 15% fair, 50% good, and 29% excellent. Sorghum mature was 94%, near 91% last year, and ahead of 88% average. Harvested was 38%, ahead of 30% both last year and average.

Dry edible beans dropping leaves was 96%, near 99% both last year and average. Harvested was 81%, ahead of 76% last year, but near 83% average.

Pasture and Range Report:
Pasture and range conditions rated 23% very poor, 21% poor, 29% fair, 25% good, and 2% excellent.



Iowa Weekly Crop Progress and Condition Report

Continued dry weather and above normal temperatures allowed Iowa farmers 6.8 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending October 13, 2024, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Field activities included harvesting corn and soybeans, baling corn stalks, applying manure and fertilizers, and fall tillage. Fire danger in fields remains a threat.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 35 percent very short, 41 percent short, 24 percent adequate and 0 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 27 percent very short, 45 percent short, 28 percent adequate and 0 percent surplus.

Corn reached 97 percent mature or beyond. Corn harvested for grain reached 45 percent, 3 days ahead of last year and 6 days ahead of the five-year average. Corn moisture content fell 2 percentage points to 16 percent. Corn condition rated 76 percent good to excellent.

Soybeans dropping leaves or beyond reached 98 percent. Nearly one-quarter of the soybean crop was harvested during the week ending October 13 reaching 81 percent complete, 6 days ahead of last year and 10 days ahead of the average. Farmers in south central Iowa remain considerably behind farmers in the rest of the State with just 54 percent of their soybean crop harvested.

Pasture condition fell 8 percentage points to just 30 percent good to excellent this week. Livestock water resources continue to recede.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

The U.S. corn and soybean harvests sped up and pulled further ahead of the five-year averages last week thanks to dry weather across most of the country, USDA NASS reported in its weekly Crop Progress report on Tuesday. The report, normally released on Mondays, was delayed this week due to the holiday. The dry conditions were detrimental to the winter wheat crop, though, with both planting and emergency running behind last year and the average pace, NASS reported.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn mature was pegged at 94%, 1 point ahead of last year's 93% and 6 points ahead of the five-year average of 89%.
-- Harvest progress: Corn harvest jumped ahead 17 percentage points nationally to reach 47% complete as of Sunday. That was 5 points ahead of last year's 42% and 8 points ahead of the five-year average of 39%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 64% of corn still in fields was in good-to-excellent condition, unchanged from the previous week but above last year's 53%. Twelve percent of the crop was rated very poor to poor, down 1 point from the previous week and below 18% last year.

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans dropping leaves were pegged at 95%, 1 point behind last year's 96% but 3 points ahead of the five-year average of 92%.
-- Harvest progress: The soybean harvest maintained a steady pace last week, moving ahead by 20 percentage points to reach 67% completion as of Sunday. That was 10 points ahead of last year's 57% and 16 points ahead of the five-year average of 51%.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Planting progress: Winter wheat planting moved ahead 13 points last week to reach 64% complete nationwide as of Sunday, 1 point behind last year and 2 points behind the five-year average of 66%.
-- Crop development: An estimated 35% of winter wheat had emerged as of Sunday, 1 point behind last year's 36% and 3 points behind the five-year average of 38%.



How Grazing Corn Residue Affects the Soil
Bethany Johnston – NE Extension Educator

One of the most common concerns about grazing corn residue is that cattle will cause soil compaction. A long term grazing data (16 years) conducted at the University of Nebraska has shown no compaction when grazing in the fall or the early spring. In this long-term study, grazing did not impact soil nutrient content. Which fits well with expected impacts given that cows in mid-pregnancy retain very little nitrogen, phosphorus or potassium. Thus, they excrete in manure and urine most of what they consume resulting in very little nutrients being removed from the land. With long term grazing there was an improvement in subsequent soybean and corn yields. This could have been due to the nutrient cycling being sped up as there is an increase in microbial biomass in the soil in the grazed areas.

More recently, a study was designed to test an extreme scenario for spring grazing. The thought was that if grazing was to cause compaction, it was most likely to happen when the soil is wet and thawed and when a high stocking density was used. The field was grazed at the recommended rate by starting in mid-February with 3 hd/ac for 45 days (normal stocking) or starting in early March with 9 hd/ac for 15 days (high stocking). Turn out of the higher stocking density groups was delayed until it rained to have the worst-case scenario. All groups were removed mid-March. There were some minor increases in bulk density (measure of compaction).

The penetration resistance was also higher, and thus more down pressure had to be applied to get the soybeans planted. Down pressure applied at planting was 265 lbs in the non-grazed and 290 lbs in the grazed treatments. Much of the increase in penetration resistance is due to the soil having less cover and thus less surface soil moisture. The planting speed was also reduced due to the surface roughness. However, the subsequent soybean yields were still improved by grazing. While it is not recommended to graze late into the spring as this does have some downsides when it comes to planting, if cattle happen to be left out when a warm-wet spell occurs, there is no long-term damage to the land.

Corn residue remaining on surface post spring grazing at high stocking density for 15 days (left), normal stocking density for 45 days (middle), or not grazed (right).

Overall, when managed correctly, grazing corn residue can be a win-win for both the crop and cattle producer.



Rob-See-Co Announces 2024 Rob-See-Co Rural Library Grantees

Rob-See-Co, an independent seed company located in Elkhorn, Neb. is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Rob-See-Co Rural Library Grant program.  Established in 2023 to mark the company’s 10th anniversary and honor Agnes Robinson’s dedication to the rural library in Waterloo, NE, this grant program celebrates her legacy.  Agnes was the great grandmother of the current CTO, Jim Robinson.  Due to the enthusiastic response in its inaugural year, the company has continued to offer these grants

“We are excited to once again provide these rural library grants in 2024,” said JIm Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of Rob-See-Co. “Last year, we gained a deeper understanding of the financial needs facing rural libraries and saw firsthand the positive impact a single grant can have on community programming. These grants reflect our commitment to supporting our dealers, growers, and the communities we serve, while also paying tribute to my family and the history of Rob-See-Co.”

This year, over 175 rural libraries across Rob-See-Co’s market area applied, requesting funding for projects such as expanding book collections, upgrading technology, and developing after-school programs and community gardens. A total of $5,000 has been awarded to 11 libraries in Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, North Dakota, Nebraska, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.  Checks will be delivered by Rob-See-Co representatives in November and December.

“We are so excited and thankful to be a recipient of the Rob-See-Co Rural Library Grant,” said Monica Mader, Director, Burlington Branch Coffey County Library.  “Our STEAM program both in the library and in the school has been very successful.  We are looking forward to being able to expand our STEAM kits to include balance activities and to purchase supplies to increase the number of STEAM stations we provide during our programs.  We have been trying for a couple of years to get funding so we can add new activities for our kids.  This grant has given us the means to provide new learning opportunities and fun to the youth in our community.  Thank you!”

The libraries receiving funding are:
·       Arcanum Public Library, Arcanum, OH
·       Brown City District Library, Brown City, MI
·       Casselton Public Library, Casselton, ND
·       Coffey County Library Burlington Branch, Burlington, KS
·       Coffeyville Public Library, Coffeyville, KS
·       Galva Public Library, Galva, IA
·       LaValle Public Library, LaValle, WI
·       Maltman Memorial Library, Wood River, NE
·       North Bend Public Library, North Bend, NE
·       St. Edward Public Library, St. Edward, NE
·       Tripp Count Library Grossenburg Memorial, Winner, SD

To learn more about Rob-See-Co, visit www.robseeco.com.



Greeneye Technology Customers Achieve 87% Average Reduction in Non-Residual Herbicide Use in 2024
     
End-of-season data released today by precision spraying pioneer Greeneye Technology reveals its customers achieved an 87% average reduction in non-residual herbicide use in 2024, translating to typical cost savings of $25 to $35 per acre.

Herbicide reduction increased to 92% in pre-emergence applications, while corn and soybean farmers achieved an 84% and 82% average reduction, respectively, according to the figures.

“The issue we are having is that traditional methods of spraying are not killing all the weeds,” comments Brad Janzen, a corn and soybean farmer in Nebraska. “We needed to be able to spray at a higher rate or use a different combination of herbicides to be able to kill those weeds. And with the Greeneye system, we can do that and save money.”

Greeneye’s end-of-season results are derived from systems deployed across eight U.S. states (Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Illinois, Texas, Kansas, Minnesota, and Iowa) and showcase the technology’s ability to optimize weed management in different terrains, weather conditions, and in till, reduced-till, and no-till fields.

Based in the Oklahoma Panhandle, Arthaud Family Farms grows wheat, corn, grain sorghum, and sunflowers. “We often face extended droughts in our area, and weed control is paramount to moisture preservation and yield success,” explains owner Scott Arthaud. “With the Greeneye system, we can spray pre-emergence at the same time we spot spray for the weeds. We spend less money on chemicals—depending on weed pressure, we see between 50-95% savings. In post-emergent applications, the yield drag is drastically reduced, which translates into real money. Plus, we can use stronger chemicals that really target the herbicide-resistant weeds.”

These results come at the end of Greeneye’s second fully-commercial season in the U.S. The system’s aftermarket design enables farmers to seamlessly transition from broadcast to precision spraying of herbicides and other inputs using their existing machine, overcoming a major cost-of-entry barrier for many farmers.

Today, Greeneye is the only company to offer a dual-line system for the aftermarket segment without subscription fees—three elements considered critical to ensure farmers achieve the fastest possible return on their investment while adhering to agronomic best practice. Earlier this year, the company introduced “Canopy Mode”, broadening the system’s precision application capabilities to inputs such as fungicides and micronutrients.

Nadav Bocher, CEO at Greeneye Technology, says: “We are extremely pleased to announce the results of the 2024 commercial season in the U.S. Behind these figures are real farmers who now have the tools they need to significantly reduce chemical use and costs, tackle resistance and drift, improve weed control efficacy, and increase crop health and yields, all while improving the sustainability of their operations.”

The 2024 end-of-season data mirrors the successful results from ongoing field trials at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), which shows the Greeneye system achieved a significant 70-95% reduction in the use of non-residual herbicides. Professor Amit Jhala, Extension Weed Specialist at UNL, comments: “I was extremely impressed with the results we have seen. Even in field conditions when the sprayer is moving at between 12 and 15 mph, it has an excellent ability to detect weeds as small as one centimeter.”

The growing adoption of the Greeneye system also extends to other stakeholders within the ag ecosystem, including retailers, co-operatives, and dealers. In May, Greeneye partnered with Nebraska-based retailer and precision farming equipment dealer, Boeck Seed Services, to open the first in a planned nationwide network of Greeneye dealerships to provide local sales, installation, and support.

Cody Boeck, Operations Director at Boeck Seeds, says: “Weed control is without a doubt the biggest challenge facing our customers—and, at the moment, it is a challenge they are losing. I think over the next five to ten years, you're going to see a huge chasm between farms that adopt [precision spraying] technology and those that don't. The ROI is too obvious, and the environmental benefits are undeniable. There’s a ton of benefits that we’re going to unlock, and [Greeneye’s] technology is going to be a major reason for that.”



Most Retail Fertilizer Prices Continue Lower

Retail fertilizer sellers surveyed by DTN for the first week of October 2024 continued to show average prices for nutrients were lower than last month.

Prices for seven of the eight major fertilizers were lower compared to last month, a trend for several weeks now. No fertilizer had a significant price increase or decline. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more. DAP had an average price of $735 per ton, MAP $805/ton, potash $448/ton, urea $485/ton, 10-34-0 $590/ton, UAN28 $316/ton and UAN32 $350/ton.

One fertilizer was slightly more expensive than a month ago. Anhydrous had an average price of $688/ton. Last month it was $684.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.53/lb.N, anhydrous $0.42/lb.N, UAN28 $0.56/lb.N and UAN32 $0.55/lb.N.

Prices for all but two fertilizers are lower compared to one year ago. MAP is 1% higher, while DAP is 3% more expensive looking back to last year. The remaining six fertilizers are lower. 10-34-0 is 4% lower, UAN28 is 11% less expensive, potash is 12% lower, anhydrous is 15% less expensive and both urea and UAN32 are 16% lower compared to last year.



Harvest Revenue Insurance Prices, so far

October is important for growers in the key Corn Belt states who purchase revenue-based crop insurance policies. It's when the harvest prices for those policies are set. As of Oct. 15, the running average is $4.21 per bushel for corn and $10.25 per bushel for soybeans.

For the vast majority of spring-planted crops, planting price guarantees calculated in February were corn $4.66 and soybeans $11.55.  The October 2023 average was $4.88 for corn and $12.84 for soybeans.  

Revenue policies with harvest-price protection cover losses caused by a difference in the harvest price (determined in October) from the projected price (determined in February). They also cover revenue losses in the event prices tumble between planting and harvest, as they did for corn in 2008.



Analysis Shows Tariff-Induced Trade War Would Hurt U.S. Farmers

A new economic study paints a troubling picture of the potential results a renewed U.S.-China trade war could have on hundreds of thousands of farmers and rural communities, showing American-imposed tariffs would come at a steep cost to U.S. producers while benefiting Brazil and Argentina.

The study, commissioned by the American Soybean Association and the National Corn Growers Association and conducted by the World Agricultural Economic and Environmental Services, shows a new trade war would result in an immediate drop in corn and soy exports to the tune of hundreds of millions of tons. As a result, Brazil and Argentina would claim the lost market share, which would be extremely difficult for American growers to reclaim in the future.

ASA and NCGA both have cautioned against a trade war:

ASA Chief Economist Scott Gerlt said, “The U.S. agriculture sector is going through a significant economic downturn. This work shows that a trade war would easily compound the adverse conditions that are placing financial stress on farmers. Even when a trade war officially ends, the loss of market share can be permanent.”

“The study highlights the dangers that come with broad tariffs on imports,” said NCGA Lead Economist Krista Swanson. “While launching widespread tariffs may seem like an effective tool, they can boomerang and cause unintended consequences. Our first goal should be to avoid unnecessary harm.”

The third-party study comes as U.S. lawmakers and officials from both political parties are increasingly looking at tariff-forward approaches as they work to address troubling Chinese trade practices.

Researchers modeled several scenarios that could play out in a new U.S.-China trade war and found a consistent outcome:

• Severe drop in U.S. exports to China. If China cancels its current waiver (from the 2020 Phase I agreement) and reverts to tariffs already on the books, U.S. soybean exports to China would, according to the study, fall 14 to 16 million metric tons annually, an average decline of 51.8% from baseline levels expected for those years. U.S. corn exports to China would fall about 2.2 million metric tons annually, an average decline of 84.3% from the baseline expectation.

• Brazil and Argentina would benefit. Brazil and Argentina would increase exports and thus gain valuable global market share. Chinese tariffs on soybeans and corn from the U.S.—but not Brazil—would provide incentive for Brazilian farmers to expand production area even more rapidly than baseline growth.

• No place to turn. While it is possible to divert exports to other nations, the study found there is insufficient demand from the rest of the world to offset the major loss of soybean exports to China to support the farmgate value.

The study found a new trade war would lead to a steep drop in soy and corn prices, resulting in a ripple impact across the U.S., particularly in rural economies where farmers live, purchase inputs, use farm and personal services, and purchase household goods.

Leaders at NCGA and ASA believe it is in America’s economic interests to maintain a trading relationship with China, even as both governments work through trade and other concerns. They also noted they support thoughtful consideration of the impacts tariffs and tariff retaliation could have on U.S. farms and rural communities.




Duvall Leads White House Meeting to Urge Prioritization of U.S. Crops for Renewable Fuel Tax

American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall today urged the administration to prioritize American-grown crops in the production of sustainable fuels during a meeting at the White House organized by the AFBF. Duvall was joined by leaders from the National Corn Growers Association and American Soybean Association to urge Senior Advisor to the President for Clean Energy Innovation John Podesta to take action.

President Duvall said, “We appreciate John Podesta’s willingness to hear our concerns about the Clean Fuel Production Credit and the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Credit. Both have the potential to be valuable incentives to produce homegrown biofuels that will help lower the nation’s carbon emissions and keep America’s farmers economically sustainable, but improvements are needed. These are tax credits that should benefit Americans, not foreign companies.”

Crops used for clean, renewable fuels are grown in the United States with a smaller environmental footprint than anywhere else in the world. Yet current guidance to produce sustainable aviation fuel does not require the use of domestically grown feedstocks. This has resulted in interests from outside of the U.S. taking advantage of the credits at the expense of rural America. Cumbersome and unnecessary reporting demands also put the monetary benefit of participating in the market out of reach for many U.S. farmers.

Duvall and the other agriculture leaders called for the administration to move quickly in adopting workable regulations for the tax credits, saying, “Time is of the essence. The Clean Fuels Production Credit is scheduled to go into effect next year, and farmers must soon decide whether they are willing and able to participate in the program. We urge Mr. Podesta and the administration to prioritize America’s farmers by establishing a domestic feedstock requirement for clean fuel production credits, and revise guidelines to make the goal of producing efficient biofuels more attainable.”



ACE: Climate-Smart Agriculture Practices Create Important Opportunities for Farmers, Biofuel Producers

In virtual comments today, American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) CEO Brian Jennings emphasized the organization’s key priorities in response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) request for information on the production of biofuel feedstocks using climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices. Jennings also encouraged USDA to continue engaging with Treasury and leverage ACE’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) projects to help inform more accurate and updated GHG credit values for CSA practices as the Treasury Department implements the 45Z Clean Fuel Production tax credit under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
 
“ACE is proud to partner with USDA on two Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) projects to improve upon model-generated credit values for biofuel feedstocks produced with climate-smart ag (CSA) practices,” said Jennings during his comments.

Priorities highlighted in Jennings’ comments are summarized below.
    Models and credit values for CSA practices should be routinely updated, incorporating data collected through ACE’s RCPP projects. Ultimately, our projects are designed to improve the accuracy of GREET and address perceived “information gaps” currently preventing farmers and ethanol producers from monetizing CSA practices in regulated markets.
    45Z should allow individual CSA practices and stacking of agricultural practices. Do not require the all-or-none “bundled” approach from 40B or arbitrarily cap agriculture practice GHG credit values.
    USDA has a long track record of stewarding federal taxpayer funds for commodity and conservation programs, ensuring that participating farmers meet necessary requirements to receive federal funds. If existing USDA protocols are sufficient for verifying the distribution of billions of taxpayer dollars for commodity and conservation programs, USDA protocols are equally sufficient for verifying the same practices for federal tax incentives such as 45Z. The Treasury Department should rely on existing USDA assets in the reporting and verification for the 45Z tax credit, and we encourage USDA to directly engage Treasury with respect to its expertise and experience in this area.



Growth Energy Calls for Flexibility for Farmers and Renewable Fuel Producers in USDA Testimony

Growth Energy, the nation's largest biofuel trade association, provided testimony to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today about the importance of giving farmers flexibility when it comes to implementing and incentivizing practices that lower the carbon intensity (CI) of renewable fuel production, including climate smart agriculture (CSA) practices.

Speaking at USDA's Public Consultation on Climate-Smart Agriculture Biofuel Feedstocks, Growth Energy General Counsel Joe Kakesh called on USDA, the U.S. Department of the Treasury, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to give farmers and renewable fuel producers credit for every CI-reducing technology they implement at the plant and on the farm, specifically when administering the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit.

"Robust decarbonization cannot be achieved unless the full range of CI-reduction technologies – both on-farm and at the plant – is recognized, and unless farmers and biofuel producers are provided the flexibility to implement CI-reduction technologies that reflect current practices and spur future innovation," Kakesh said. "45Z provides an opportunity to do this. We urge USDA, Treasury, EPA, and other agencies working on Section 45Z guidance to expand options to realize the full CI-reduction potential of biofuels under Section 45Z, and to provide guidance before January 1, 2025, to allow stakeholders to take full advantage of the credit from day one."

Kakesh noted that agriculture represents more than 50 percent of bioethanol’s CI score, and that CSA is integral to reducing the carbon footprint of all crop-based biofuels. He highlighted recent research by the Energy Futures Initiative (EFI) Foundation that showed that on-farm practices can reduce the CI of bioethanol by up to 56 percent. In conjunction with at-plant CI reduction technologies, CSA can play a powerful role in the decarbonization of the entire transportation fuel sector.  



Growth Energy to IRS: 45Z Tax Credit Guidance Must Be Scientific, Flexible, and Timely

Growth Energy, the nation’s leading biofuel trade association, continued to urge the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) today to follow the best available science when crafting its long-awaited guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. Specifically, Growth Energy called on the U.S. Treasury Department to quickly issue guidance, preferably in a rulemaking, that accurately rewards the full spectrum of tools available to reduce bioethanol emissions at the plant and on the farm, including carbon capture and storage, process heat and energy, and climate-smart agriculture (CSA).

Growth Energy called on the IRS to provide flexibility for biofuel producers to integrate climate-smart technologies.

“For the 45Z credit to function properly, the IRS should reward renewable fuel producers that maximize their GHG reductions through the full scope of lower-carbon production processes,” wrote Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “Fortunately the GREET model includes a broad range of at-the-plant technologies that should be incorporated into any 45Z model used in the SAF context and the emissions rate table used for 45Z on-road eligibility. At a minimum, any model or emissions rate table designed to estimate carbon intensity using best available practices must include adjustments for biomass power or heat, corn stover to process heat, combined heat and power, wet distiller’s grains, membrane dehydration, vapor recompression, advanced yeasts and enzymes, energy storage, and zero-CI electricity from solar, nuclear, geothermal, hydropower, and biomass facilities.”

With regard to climate-smart farming practices, “there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to CSA,” wrote Skor. “Farmers should be encouraged to adopt as many CSA practices as possible, with the flexibility to choose the CSA practices that work best for the specific circumstances at their farms. Farmers across the country face distinct challenges and advantages based on the location of their farm, types of crops grown, soil health, weather patterns, local equipment costs, and individual risk tolerance, among many other factors.”

Finally, Growth Energy reminded Treasury officials that time is of the essence and called on IRS to work quickly before October ends to take the critical first step of proposing a rulemaking with guidance for 45Z.

“At a minimum, the IRS should issue a proposed rule no later than November 1, 2024, including any proposed new models or model upgrades,” wrote Skor.



Syngenta Crop Protection and Taranis Partner to Drive AI-Powered Agronomy Solutions and Business Opportunities for Retailers

Syngenta Crop Protection, LLC, a global leader in crop protection, is proud to announce that Syngenta and Taranis, the world’s leading AI-powered crop intelligence platform, have entered into a multi-year collaboration to bring Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven agronomic productivity and conservation-focused innovation to agricultural retail partners in the US.

Starting in 2024/2025 and over a three-year period, the collaboration will involve a significant investment aimed at supporting ag retailers in the adoption of Taranis’ AI-powered agronomic platforms so retail partners can benefit from AI-derived leaf-level remote scouting insights and generative AI (GenAI) agronomic recommendations. This collaboration is designed to revolutionize ag retailer workflows while optimizing farm decision making, facilitating grower adoption of conservation practices, and increasing farm profitability.

“We believe this collaboration with Taranis will help retailers tap into the full potential of AI and digital agronomy, unlocking new levels of operational efficiencies,” said Paul Backman, head of North America Crop Protection digital agriculture & sustainable solutions. “By combining Syngenta’s industry-leading portfolio with Taranis’ AI-driven insights, we empower retailers to deliver better, faster and more precise service to their grower-customers.”

Ongoing development between Syngenta and Taranis will support the continued advancement of AI-powered agronomic platforms. The collaboration will include technology and features from Syngenta’s Cropwise platform with Taranis’ leading crop intelligence solution and will target innovation in areas including conservation agronomy, agricultural productivity, and AI-enabled agronomic solutions.

Leaf-Level AI-Driven Agronomic Recommendations
Syngenta will extend a unique offer focused in the Midwest to support targeted retailers' adoption of Taranis’ AI-driven intelligence platform providing leaf-level 0.3mm/pixel resolution threat detection of weed species, insects, diseases and nutrient deficiencies. The service will enable retailers to remotely scout more acres, more comprehensively, from anywhere they access the platform, and to easily prioritize the fields that require the most immediate attention. Paired with Ag Assistant™, the Taranis GenAI agronomy engine, retail advisors can generate data-driven expert agronomic recommendations that save time and allow them to act decisively to help their grower-customers protect their crops using Syngenta’s market-leading crop protection portfolio, resulting in yield-enhancing crop management practices that improve retailer and grower productivity and profitability.

“Having an instantaneous understanding of the issues and the optimal solution creates efficiencies and opportunities the industry has never seen before,” said Opher Flohr, CEO of Taranis. “This collaboration with Syngenta is a significant step forward in driving the AI revolution for production agriculture.”

Future collaboration between Syngenta and Taranis will seek to integrate Syngenta’s Cropwise platform with Taranis’ Intelligence Service to further enhance digital agronomy solutions available to Retail partners.

Hassle-Free Conservation Services
This collaboration on conservation services will enable retail partners to offer their grower-customers access to Taranis’ conservation platform through a success-based model. The platform helps growers access funding for adoption of conservation practices, and when coupled with Taranis support has shown increased conservation funding success rates. Validation of sustainable practices is streamlined through an automated process that seamlessly fulfills conservation reporting requirements.    

“Our collaboration with Taranis underscores Syngenta’s commitment to sustainability,” said Paul. “By offering easy access to conservation tools and funding, we are making it simpler for growers to adopt sustainable practices that further preserve their legacy."

Future collaboration between Syngenta and Taranis will bring additional sustainability-focused benefits including integration of Syngenta’s Cropwise Sustainability platform with Taranis’ Conservation Service to access emerging market opportunities for retailers and growers created through digitally enabled conservation agronomy practices.

Tuesday October 15 Ag News

 Northeast Community College to Lead National Ag Education Consortium

Northeast Community College (Northeast) in Norfolk, Neb. will be the headquarters of a national agriculture consortium for two-year colleges, serving as the lead institution and fiscal agent for the $9-million, four-year program.

Funding for the effort, a cooperative agreement between U.S. Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service (USDA-NRCS) and the Community College Alliance for Agriculture Advancement (C2A3), was announced recently.

C2A3 is a collaboration of nine schools across eight states that began eight years ago as a 501c3 organization. Member schools in addition to Northeast are Central Lakes College, Staples, Minn.; Clark State College, Springfield, Ohio; Illinois Central College, East Peoria, Ill.; Ivy Tech Community College, Lafayette, Ind.; Lake Area Technical College, Watertown, S.D.; Northcentral Technical College, Wausau, Wis.; Northeast Iowa Community College, Calmar, Iowa; and Richland Community College, Decatur, Ill.

Tracy Kruse, vice president of development and external affairs at Northeast, serves as the group’s executive director.

“C2A3 began as a Midwest consortium,” Kruse said. “But with this partnership, we will be able to expand to include colleges from across the nation. Our goal is to have at least 50 community and technical college members by the end of the four-year award period.”

C2A3 will become a national hub for two-year ag education, developing expertise and regionally specific programming and curriculum that can be replicated across the country. Through this alliance, member colleges can access these resources and gain assistance in building partnerships with their local and state USDA-NRCS offices.

Astrid Martinez, Director of the Conservation Planning and Technical Assistance division with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, has been very active in getting this agreement established. “C2A3 schools will increase students’ interest in agriculture, natural resources, and conservation, with a focus on preparing students for USDA jobs. National skill standards will be developed in natural resource conservation, precision agriculture, and agronomy,” said Martinez. “This is an important step in developing the next generation of agricultural leaders.”

The national ag education consortium will also encourage applied research and outreach activities on college farms and urban agriculture facilities. Several C2A3 schools, including Northeast, already have continuous projects in place that are related to soil quality, water quality, urban agriculture, livestock, and grazing.

Proposed projects include artificial intelligence and precision livestock; crop drainage and irrigation management; soil quality, field/pasture renovation, and cover crops; water quality, pond, and wetland management; silvopasture management; and urban agriculture.

“Student participation in applied research is the cornerstone of cultivating the next generation of agricultural innovators and problem solvers,” Kruse explained. “By using real-life examples of

conservation in classroom and laboratory experiences, students can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.”

The expanded C2A3 consortium will also create internship opportunities and student leadership experiences that include real life skills and networking with USDA employees. In addition, it will provide support for faculty and students to attend an annual conference and gain practical experiences and knowledge to put to future use.

“The rapid growth of technology in agriculture requires colleges to be nimble and respond quickly to changes within the industry,” Kruse said. “This alliance will support the colleges and provide them the tools to rapidly respond to the workforce needs within agriculture.”

This agreement will fund the hiring of four employees to implement this work, including the hiring of a national director, a curriculum designer, an outreach coordinator, and an executive assistant. These positions will work remotely and will be accessible to all member institutions and USDA-NRCS as the partnership is built.

The alliance is expected to start this work immediately. For more information on C2A3, visit www.agalliance.net.



Nebraska Soybean Board Partners with Nebraska Extension to Offer Free SCN Testing for Farmers

As the 2024 harvest season continues, the Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) is once again partnering with Nebraska Extension to help farmers protect their fields from soybean cyst nematode (SCN), the leading yield-limiting pest in soybean production.

Through this collaboration, Nebraska farmers can test their soil for SCN at no cost, thanks to NSB funding. This essential service can help farmers detect and manage SCN, which costs U.S. soybean producers an estimated $1.5 billion in lost yields annually. SCN can cause up to 30% yield loss without any visible symptoms.

“Even if you didn’t see SCN in your field, it doesn’t mean it’s not stealing yield,” said Dylan Mangel, Assistant Professor and Extension Plant Pathologist at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. “Especially in years with sufficient rainfall, visible plant disease symptoms can go unnoticed. Testing soils continues to be the only effective way to identify which fields are infested with the parasite.”

October is SCN Action Month, the perfect time to test your fields for SCN as levels are at their highest post-harvest. Farmers can request free soil sample bags from their local Extension office or online. Once you have your sampling bags, follow these steps:

Collect Soil Samples:
    Use a 1-inch diameter soil probe or spade to collect at least 15-20 soil cores in a zigzag pattern across 10-20 acres.
    Samples should be taken from the root zone, about 6-8 inches deep.
    Combine and mix the cores in a bucket, then place at least 2 cups of the composite soil into a sealable plastic bag or a free SCN sample bag.

Sample High-Risk Areas:
    Consider sampling areas in fields with unexplained low yields, stunted or yellow plants, low spots, field entryways and areas impacted by flooding or sudden death syndrome.

Submit Samples to:
UNL Plant & Pest Diagnostic Clinic
1875 N 38th Street, 448 Plant Sciences Hall
Lincoln, NE 68583-0722

Be Sure to Include the Following Information:
    Name, address, and contact information
    Field name or ID, number of acres represented
    Crop history and this year’s crop

Once SCN is detected, farmers should take a proactive approach to managing the pest. "Management of SCN is necessary at any level," Mangel said. "Rotate to a non-host crop, try a different resistant variety, and consider a nematode-protectant seed treatment. The first and last step for SCN management is testing."



Nebraska Beef Council Funded Research Update at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Madison Doeschot - Nebraska Beef Council

Drs. Samodha Fernando and Gary Sullivan, both researchers and professors at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, are conducting innovative research that could transform the cattle industry with support from the Nebraska Beef Council. Their work focuses on different aspects of beef production, ranging from microbial solutions to improve animal health and reduce environmental impacts, to enhancing meat quality for consumers.

Dr. Fernando, who is a nutritional biochemist at UNL, has dedicated much of his research to understanding the role of microbes in ruminant health and nutrition. His current work, funded in part by the Nebraska Beef Council, seeks to reduce methane emissions from cattle by manipulating their gut microbiomes. One of his ongoing projects examines how early microbial colonization in calves can affect methane production throughout the animal's life.

Fernando's team has found that introducing beneficial microbes within the first 48 hours of a calf's life can have long-term effects and may be used to reduce methane emissions and improve the overall health of the animal. If successful, this strategy could help make cattle ranching more environmentally sustainable while enhancing livestock performance.

In addition to his work with methane reduction, Fernando is also exploring the development of probiotics as alternatives to antibiotics. This research, also supported by the Beef Council, aims to reduce the use of antibiotics in cattle, potentially improving food safety and animal health. Several of these probiotics are currently being tested, and companies are already showing interest in licensing these products for commercial use. Fernando’s research has attracted further funding from the USDA, highlighting the long-term potential of his work for both the industry and environmental sustainability.

Dr. Gary Sullivan, a meat scientist at UNL, focuses on improving the quality, safety and shelf life of processed meats. His research has also received significant support from the Nebraska Beef Council, particularly his recent work on high-pressure processing (HPP) for dark-cutting beef. Dark-cutting beef, which often results from stress in cattle prior to slaughter, is discounted in the market due to its darker appearance.

Sullivan’s research aims to use HPP to improve the color of dark-cutting beef, restoring its market value. By applying high pressure to packaged meat, the color and texture can be altered to appear more like standard beef products, thus reducing the financial loss associated with dark-cutting beef.

Sullivan’s team, which includes experts from the University of Nebraska and Oklahoma State University, has already shown promising results in initial studies. The application of HPP at specific pressures has been proven to successfully restore the bright red color associated with high-quality beef. The Nebraska Beef Council has funded further research to explore how this technique could be applied to larger cuts of meat, such as strip loins and tenderloins, with the goal of regaining lost value in the beef industry.

Both Drs. Fernando and Sullivan emphasized that the Nebraska Beef Council has been instrumental in funding their research, allowing them to test novel ideas and develop solutions that could benefit both the environment and beef producers. Their work is poised to have a lasting impact on the cattle industry, improving animal health, product quality and sustainability.



Saying goodbye to metal bangs tags and hello to EID tags
Bethany Johnston, Nebraska Extension Educator

If your heifers are bangs tagged, those orange metal clips will soon be a relic of the past. Starting November 5, 2024, your veterinarian will not be tagging with metal clips, but instead will use electronic identification (EID) tags.

Veterinarians used metal clips to identify heifers receiving the brucellosis vaccine (“bangs”), and to identify animals moving between states.

In the spring of 2024, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced mandatory EID tags for certain bovine classes.  This builds upon the 2013 ruling that only requested visual ID tags.  The electronic version will be used to track and contain animal disease outbreaks, just as the metal identification clips did.

What is a USDA 840 EID Tag?
The EID tags replacing the metal clips are USDA 840, showing the country code for the United States (840), with the official USDA shield.  The remaining 12 numbers are unique to the tag/animal.  The 840 tags provide animal identification to trace animal movements in the event of an animal disease.  The 15 numbers can be visually read off of the EID button, or can be read with a computerized EID reader or wand.

There are other types of EID tags, but only 840 EID tags will fulfill the APHIS ruling to replace the metal clips.

What does the EID mandate mean for cattle producers?
    Animals with the old metal tags already in their ears are “grandfathered in” and will not need new 840 EID tags.
    “840 EID” tags can come as “buttons” with no hanging tag, as long as the 15- digit number is viewable on the top of the button.  
        The buttons can come with matching visual hanging tags.
        Some “840 EID” tags should be placed in the middle rib of the ear, unlike the metal clips that were placed in the top portion of the ear.
            This could be an issue if you have a visual tag in each ear, plus a fly tag in each ear. Adding an EID tag would make 5 tags per animal, and you may run out of room in their middle ribs.
            Reach out to the tag manufacturer for tag placement recommendations.
    Producers will need to establish a premise ID number or use the premise ID number of their veterinarian.
    You or your veterinarian may put in 840 EID tags.  Your vet will put 840 EID tags only into animals that used to require a metal clip for identification.
        For example, if a producer tags all their calves at weaning with 840 EID tags, your vet will record those EID numbers when they give the bangs vaccine to your heifers.  The vet would not have to put a new EID tag in.
        Check with the sale barn on what records are required.  
            For example, if you are selling breeding heifers, records showing the EID numbers matching the “bangs” vaccination might be helpful.

What will change for your veterinarian?
    After November 5, 2024, your vet will be tagging with 840 EID tags instead of the metal tags.
    The United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing a certain number of tags for each state, during the transition.  Nebraska veterinarians can receive tags for replacement animals.
    If a disease is traced back to that veterinarian’s premise ID number, then the vet will work with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture to track the path that animal.  Ideally, the EID tags will speed up the process and reduce losses during a disease outbreak.

More information can be found at the Animal Disease Traceability (ADT) website at: https://nda.nebraska.gov/adt/index.html .  The NDA will host an informational webinar on October 22, 2024 at 6 pm CT- to join the webinar, click here https://sonvideo.webex.com/sonvideo/j.php?MTID=m25e2a00d431592943e04aec2f73e6b80.



UPDATED EID TAG REQUIREMENTS FOR ANIMAL DISEASE TRACEABILITY

In April 2024, USDA-APHIS issued a final rule updating their existing 2013 regulations on animal disease traceability (ADT). The updated rule will take effect on November 5, 2024. This updated rule now requires ear tags being used as official animal identification for the interstate movement of covered classes of cattle to be both visually and electronically readable.

With less than a month before USDA's new traceability rule takes effect, we want to make sure Nebraska Cattlemen members have the opportunity to learn more about how this rule may impact their operation.

NC will host a members only webinar on updated EID tag requirements for animal disease traceability this Thursday, October 17 at 7:30 p.m. CT. Please note, this webinar will not be recorded. Members must attend to listen to the presentation.

REGISTER HERE: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_zVJEdj5zQXyFcH3TML7vZQ#/registration.

SPEAKERS
Sigrid Johannes - Senior Director of Government Affairs for NCBA
Sigrid's portfolio at the National Cattlemen's Beef Association includes lab-grown meat, cattle health and welfare, food safety, and animal disease traceability.

Jared Walahoski, D.VM. - Overton Veterinary Services, LLC.
Jared is a native of Elyria, NE and graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1998 with a B.S in Animal Science. He received his D.V.M. from Kansas State University in 2002. Jared and his wife, Kristine, have three sons, Spencer, Parker and Grant, and two daughters, Paige and Meg. His practice interests include feedlot and cow/calf health and management, and companion animal wellness. Jared enjoys being outdoors and watching the Huskers.

Britney Hagood - Animal Disease Traceability Program Manager
Britney Hagood currently works as the Animal Disease Traceability Program Manager for the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.



Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team Students Selected for 2024 – 2025 Participation

Iowa Corn is proud to announce the students selected to participate in the 2024-2025 school year’s Collegiate Advisory Team (CAT) program, which focuses on increasing college students’ understanding of the corn industry. During the one-year program, students will visit the Capitol, tour industry leaders' operations, and expand their network and knowledge outside of the classroom.

2024 - 2025 Collegiate Advisory Team Students:
    Amanda Ostrem, Des Moines Area Community College
    Calla Langel, Des Moines Area Community College
    Morgan McKay, Des Moines Area Community College
    Presley Buttler, Des Moines Area Community College
    Tate Tentinger, Ellsworth Community College
    Kelly Lloyd, Future Flyers of America
    Ashlee David, Graceland University
    Logan Evans, Graceland University
    Adelyn Sienknecht, Hawkeye Community College
    Raymond Franzen, Indian Hills Community College
    Lucas Parcel, Iowa Central Community College
    Breanna Selsor, Iowa State University
    Brooklyn Botterman, Iowa State University
    Chris Baer, Iowa State University
    Elly Cain, Iowa State University
    Emily Bray, Iowa State University
    Lainey DeVries, Iowa State University
    Maddilyn Klemme, Iowa State University
    Madison Hoover, Iowa State University
    Mallory Behnken, Iowa State University
    Caleb Welsh, Kirkwood Community College
    RC Hicks, Morningside University
    Henry Rose, Muscatine Community College
    Marshall Zeien, North Iowa Area Community College
    Makinley Edwards, Southwestern Community College
    Rylan Oglesbee, Southwestern Community College

The Collegiate Advisory Team will meet four times over the course of the 2024 – 2025 school year, providing experience and training by Iowa Corn in areas such as leadership, effective communication, policy, and industry relations.

For more information on the program, visit https://www.iowacorn.org/CAT.



United Soybean Board Announces Call for Nominations for 2025 Tom Oswald Legacy Award

Think of an individual, organization or group that has profoundly influenced the soybean industry and the soy checkoff — who stands out to you? United Soybean Board (USB) today announced a call for nominations for the Tom Oswald Legacy Award. In its third year, this annual award honors the late Tom Oswald, who will always be remembered as a passionate farmer-leader and dedicated volunteer. The award honors someone who went above and beyond to advance research and promotes investments forward in an unconventional way.

An Iowa soybean and corn farmer, Oswald served eight years as a USB director and three years on the USB executive committee. He frequently posed the question, “How do we make it better-er?” — meaning what extra steps, thoughts, and efforts could the checkoff take to go beyond expectations and provide the best possible outcome?

“Tom was an example of compassion and creativity. He was always willing to tackle the challenging questions, an important quality we value in the recipient of this award. Our soy community is fortunate to have leaders who are dedicated to advancing the soy industry and are committed to maximizing the impact of checkoff dollars,” said Steve Reinhard, USB chair and Ohio farmer. “We look forward to receiving many deserving nominations and are excited to honor an outstanding leader shaping the future for U.S. soybean farmers.”

Ed Anderson, PhD in molecular plant virology, received the award in 2024 for his leadership in improving soybean genetics and agronomic production. His work has benefited the soybean industry while keeping farmers' needs at the forefront. The inaugural recipient of this award, Ken Bader was awarded in 2023 for his commitment and steadfast efforts to advance the soybean industry, most notably through his work that led to the creation of the United Soybean Board.

If there is an organization, group or individual that you believe should be recognized for their efforts and passion for this industry, visit the USB website to submit your nomination. Nominations will close on Nov. 8, 2024, and the award will be presented at Commodity Classic in March 2025.

In one of Oswald’s final interviews with his local TV station KMEG-TV on its “Proud To Be a Hometown Farmer” segment, he encouraged farmers to serve on the soy checkoff. He spoke from the heart, saying, “The rewards are not financial, the rewards are hard to describe because it’s that intangible. Working with other farmers, locally, nationally, it’s that bigger picture. Working with city people who do not know a thing about agriculture and making a connection — you can’t be paid for that. It’s wonderful.”

Monday October 14 Ag News + Crop Production - WASDE

NEBRASKA CROP PRODUCTION REPORT

Based on October 1 conditions, Nebraska's 2024 corn production is forecast at 1.90 billion bushels, up 10% from last year's production, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Area to be harvested for grain, at 9.70 million acres, is up 2% from a year ago. Yield is forecast at 196 bushels per acre, up 14 bushels from last year. If realized, this would be a new record high for both production and yield.

Soybean production is forecast at 310 million bushels, up 16% from last year. Area for harvest, at 5.25 million acres, is up 1% from 2023. Yield is forecast at 59 bushels per acre, up 7.5 bushels from last year.

Sorghum for grain is forecast at 18.9 million bushels, up 15% from last year. Area for harvest, at 230,000 acres, is up 2% from 2023. Yield is forecast at 82 bushels per acre, up 9 bushels from last year.

Dry edible bean production is forecast at 2.54 million cwt, up 29% from 2023. Area for harvest, at 121,000 acres, is up 32% from last year. Yield is estimated at 2,100 pounds, down 40.0 pounds per acre from last year.

Sugarbeet production is forecast at 1.46 million tons, up 9% from 2023. Area for harvest, at 46,700 acres, is up slightly from last year. Yield is estimated at 31.2 tons per acre, up 2.6 tons per acre from a year ago.

All sunflower production is forecast at 28.9 million pounds, down 34% from last year. Acreage for harvest, at 27,100 acres, is down 10,400 acres from 2023. Yield is forecast at 1,068 pounds per acre, down 110 pounds per acre from a year ago. Of the acres for harvest, non-oil sunflowers account for 2,100 acres and oil sunflowers account for 25,000 acres.

Alfalfa hay production, at 3.72 million tons, is up 29% from last year. Area for harvest, at 930,000 acres, is up 9% from a year ago. Yield of 4.00 tons per acre is up 0.60 ton per acre from 2023. All other hay production, at 2.38 million tons, is down 3% from last year. Area for harvest, at 1.64 million acres, is up 14% from a year ago. Yield of 1.45 tons per acre is down 0.25 ton from 2023.



IOWA CROP PRODUCTION REPORT

Iowa corn production is forecast at 2.64 billion bushels, up 5 percent from the previous year, according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Crop Production report. Based on conditions as of October 1, yields are expected to average 214.0 bushels per acre, up 2.0 bushels per acre from the September 1 forecast and up 13.0 bushels per acre from last year. Corn planted acreage is estimated at 12.9 million acres. An estimated 12.4 million of the acres planted will be harvested for grain.

Soybean production is forecast at 638 million bushels, up 11 percent from the previous year. The yield is forecast at 64.0 bushels per acre, up 1.0 bushel per acre from the September 1 forecast and up 6.0 bushels per acre from 2023. Soybean planted acreage is estimated at 10.1 million acres with 9.97 million acres to be harvested.

Production of alfalfa and alfalfa mixtures for hay is forecast at 2.95 million tons, up 23 percent from the previous year. Yield is expected to average 4.10 tons per acre, up 0.90 ton per acre from last year. Production of other hay is forecast at 832,000 tons, up 52 percent from last year. Yield for other hay is expected to average 2.60 tons per acre, up 0.50 ton per acre from last year.



USDA Crop Production - Oct 11, 2024

Corn production for grain is forecast at 15.2 billion bushels, up less than 1 percent from the previous forecast but down 1 percent from 2023. Based on conditions as of October 1, yields are expected to average 183.8 bushels per harvested acre, up 0.2 bushel from the previous forecast and up 6.5 bushels from last year. Area harvested for grain is forecast at 82.7 million acres, unchanged from the previous forecast but down 4 percent from the previous year.

Soybean production for beans is forecast at a record high 4.58 billion bushels, down slightly from the previous forecast but up 10 percent from 2023. Based on conditions as of October 1, yields are expected to average a record high 53.1 bushels per acre, down 0.1 bushel from the previous forecast but up 2.5 bushels from 2023. Area harvested for beans in the United States is forecast at 86.3 million acres, unchanged from the previous forecast but up 5 percent from 2023.

All cotton production is forecast at 14.2 million 480-pound bales, down 2 percent from the previous forecast but up 18 percent from 2023. Based on conditions as of October 1, yields are expected to average 789 pounds per harvested acre, down 18 pounds from the previous forecast and down 110 pounds from 2023. Upland cotton production is forecast at 13.7 million 480-pound bales, down 2 percent from the previous forecast but up 16 percent from 2023. Pima cotton production is forecast at 516,000 bales, down 6 percent from the previous forecast but up 63 percent from 2023. All cotton area harvested is forecast at 8.63 million acres, unchanged from the previous forecast but up 34 percent from 2023.



USDA WASDE - Oct 11, 2024

COARSE GRAINS: This month’s 2024/25 U.S. corn outlook is for smaller supplies, larger exports, and reduced ending stocks. Projected beginning stocks for 2024/25 are 52 million bushels lower based on the Grain Stocks report. Corn production is forecast at 15.2 billion bushels, up 17 million from last month on a 0.2-bushel increase in yield to 183.8 bushels per acre. Harvested area for grain is unchanged at 82.7 million acres. Total use is raised slightly to 15.0 billion bushels reflecting greater exports. With supply falling and use rising, ending stocks are cut 58 million bushels to 2.0 billion. The season-average corn price received by producers is unchanged at $4.10 per bushel.

Global coarse grain production for 2024/25 is forecast 2.3 million tons lower to 1.500 billion. This month’s 2024/25 foreign coarse grain outlook is for lower production, smaller trade, and essentially unchanged stocks relative to last month. Foreign corn production is forecast down with declines for Ukraine, Egypt, Russia, and the Philippines partially offset by an increase for India. Ukraine and Russia are lowered based on harvest results to date. India is higher as a reduction in area is more than offset by a higher yield forecast. Foreign barley production is down with cuts for Russia, the EU, and United Kingdom partly offset by increases for Argentina and India.

Major global coarse grain trade changes for 2024/25 include lower corn exports for Ukraine and Russia with an increase for the United States. Corn imports are reduced for China and Iran but raised for Egypt and the Philippines. Foreign corn ending stocks are reduced slightly to 255.8 million tons, mostly reflecting a reduction for China that is partly offset by increases for Argentina and Mexico. World corn ending stocks, at 306.5 million tons, are down 1.8 million.

OILSEEDS: U.S. oilseed production for 2024/25 is forecast at 134.4 million tons, down 0.3 million from last month with lower soybean, cottonseed, peanut, and sunflowerseed production partly offset by higher canola production. Soybean production is forecast at 4.6 billion bushels, down 4 million on lower yields. Harvested area is unchanged at 86.3 million acres. The soybean yield is projected at 53.1 bushels per acre, down 0.1 bushels from the September forecast. With lower production partly offset by slightly higher beginning stocks, supplies are lowered 2.0 million bushels to 4.9 billion. With a slightly lower residual and no change to exports and crush, ending stocks are unchanged from last month at 550 million bushels.

The U.S. season-average soybean price for 2024/25 is unchanged at $10.80 per bushel. Soybean meal and oil prices are also unchanged at $320 per short ton and 42 cents per pound, respectively.

Foreign 2024/25 oilseed production is increased 0.2 million tons to 552.9 million mainly on higher sunflowerseed and cottonseed partly offset by lower rapeseed and soybean production. Sunflowerseed production is raised for Argentina and Moldova mainly on higher area. Rapeseed production is lowered for the EU, Moldova, and Ukraine on lower area and harvest results. Soybean production is lowered for Ukraine on harvest results. Another notable revision is lower palm oil production for Indonesia for 2022/23 and 2023/24, guided by domestic estimates and lower-than-expected reported exports to date. Global 2024/25 soybean exports are lowered 0.1 million tons to 181.5 million with lower exports for Ukraine. Soybean imports and crush are lowered for Thailand. Global soybean ending stocks are up 0.1 million to 134.6 million with higher stocks for China, Argentina, and Brazil mostly offset by lower stocks for Ukraine, Turkey, and Iran.

WHEAT: The outlook for 2024/25 U.S. wheat this month is for reduced supplies, larger domestic use, unchanged exports, and lower ending stocks. Supplies are lowered 6 million bushels to 2,783 million, as reduced beginning stocks and lower production are partly offset by larger imports. Production is reduced 11 million bushels to 1,971 million, as reported in the NASS Small Grains Annual Summary released September 30. Imports are raised 10 million bushels to 115 million based on a strong pace of imports for the first three months of the marketing year. Domestic use is raised 10 million bushels to 120 million on higher feed and residual use. The NASS Grain Stocks report released September 30 indicated a year-to-year increase for first quarter (June-August) feed and residual disappearance from a year earlier. Exports remain at 825 million bushels with several offsetting by-class changes. Projected ending stocks are lowered by 16 million bushels to 812 million, but still up 17 percent from the previous year. The season average farm price is unchanged at $5.70 per bushel.

The global wheat outlook for 2024/25 is for reduced supplies, consumption, and trade but slightly higher ending stocks. Supplies are reduced 1.9 million tons to 1,060.3 million primarily on reduced production for the EU, Russia, India, and Brazil. Declines in supplies were only partially offset by higher production for Ukraine and larger beginning stocks for Russia. Global consumption is reduced 2.4 million tons to 802.5 million, with lower Food, Seed, and Industrial use in India and Afghanistan. World trade is decreased 0.7 million tons to 215.8 million on reduced exports by the EU that are partly offset by an increase for Ukraine. Projected 2024/25 global ending stocks are raised 0.5 million tons to 257.7 million, but are still the lowest since 2015/16.

LIVESTOCK, POULTRY, AND DAIRY: The forecast for 2024 red meat and poultry production is raised from last month, as higher beef production more than offsets lower pork, broiler, and turkey production. Beef production is raised on higher cattle slaughter, and heavier dressed weights for the third and fourth quarters. Pork production is lowered on a slower pace of slaughter and lower dressed weights. Broiler production for the third quarter is reduced based on recent slaughter data. This more than offsets a higher fourth quarter forecast due to recent hatchery data. Turkey production is lowered based on recent production and hatchery data. Total egg production is lowered on recent production data and a slower-than-previously-expected growth rate in the laying flock. The forecast for 2025 red meat and poultry production is raised on higher beef, pork, and broiler production. Beef production is raised on higher steer and heifer slaughter, particularly in the first half of the year, and heavier weights. Pork production is raised as the pig crop and farrowing intentions estimates in the September 26 Quarterly Hogs and Pigs report pointed to larger hog supplies, particularly in the first half of 2025, which will translate to increased pork production during the year. Broiler production is raised due to a higher price outlook. Turkey production is lowered as the reduced price outlook in 2024 and 2025 is expected to dampen the rate of recovery. Total egg production is unchanged.

Beef import forecasts for 2024 and 2025 are raised on continued strength in demand and  availability of supplies from Oceania and South America. Beef exports are lowered for 2024 on recent trade data. There are no changes to the 2025 beef export forecast. The pork export forecast is lowered for 2024 on recent trade data, but the 2025 export forecast is raised on higher U.S. supplies and improved international demand, particularly in the second half of the year. The broiler export forecast is lowered for 2024 on recent trade data and weaker competitiveness relative to other major exporters. The broiler export forecast for 2025 is also lowered, as increased competition from other major exporters is expected to carry into 2025. The turkey export forecast is lowered for 2024 on recent trade data, but the forecast is unchanged for 2025.

Cattle prices for 2024 are raised in the third and fourth quarters on reported data for September and continued strong demand for cattle through the end of the year. The price strength is carried into the first quarter of 2025. The hog price forecasts for 2024 and the first half of 2025 are raised on reported data through the end of the third quarter and expected demand strength. The broiler price forecasts for 2024 and 2025 are raised on recent price data and expected demand strength. The turkey price forecast is virtually unchanged for 2024, with a higher third-quarter price based on reported data offset by a lower fourth quarter price as demand is expected to remain relatively weak. The price forecast for 2025 is also lowered.

The milk production forecast for 2024 is lowered from last month on slightly less growth in milk per cow. The milk production forecast for 2025 is also reduced on slower growth in milk per cow.

The fat basis import forecast for 2024 is raised on higher expected imports of primarily cheese and butter. Fat basis imports for 2025 are raised on higher cheese and butter imports. Skim-solids imports are unchanged for 2024 but raised for 2025 on higher imports of cheese and a number of other dairy products. The fat basis export forecast for 2024 is unchanged, but exports for 2025 are raised on higher butter shipments. The skim-solids export forecast for 2024 is raised on higher nonfat dry milk (NDM) shipments, but the 2025 forecast is lowered on weaker competitiveness for NDM and whey.

Recent declines in butter and cheese prices are reflected in lower 2024 and 2025 price forecasts. NDM and whey prices are raised for both years on recent price strength and expected demand strength. The Class III price forecasts are lowered for both 2024 and 2025, as price declines in cheese more than offset higher whey prices. The Class IV price forecasts are also lower than the previous month for both 2024 and 2025, with lower butter prices partially offset by higher NDM prices. The all milk price forecast for 2024 is lowered to $22.80 per cwt and the 2025 forecast is lowered to $22.75 per cwt.



Soybean Tentiform Leafminer Found in Nebraska
Wayne Ohnesorg - NE Extension Educator

Even though soybean fields are drying down and nearing harvest, the first case of a soybean field infested with soybean tentiform leafminer (STL) (Macrosaccus morrisella) in Nebraska was confirmed on Sept. 27, 2024. This is a native leaf miner that was known from two native plants: American hog peanut and slickseed fuzzybean. In recent years, STL has been observed infesting soybean.

The first reports of STL in U.S. soybean fields came from two counties near the Twin Cities Metro Area in Minnesota in 2021. During 2022, an additional 10 counties in Minnesota and three counties in South Dakota reported infested fields. North Dakota was added to the list of states with five counties reporting infestations in 2023. So far, Nebraska is the only state to be added this year. A single infested field has been found in Madison County.

The adult STL is a very small moth (~1/8 inch). Wings are marked with orange, white and gray-black markings. Eggs are laid on the underside of leaves. Larvae hatch and burrow into the leaf, where they feed on leaf tissue. Feeding at first forms a serpentine-like mine. The mines later grow into patches or blotches. Multiple mines can be on the same leaflet. Mines don’t cross the midrib or major leaf veins. Larvae are pale green to white. Multiple larvae can be in the same mine. Larvae will spin a silk retreat in the mine to pupate.

At present, there are no known management methods for this insect. As fields in Nebraska are rapidly approaching harvest, there is little to be concerned with at this time. The next step will be to conduct growing season surveys of soybean fields to determine the prevalence of STL in Nebraska soybean fields.



Chilly Mornings, Chilly Concerns: Managing Frost-Induced Prussic Acid Risks

Frost is one of the primary environmental factors that can lead to increased prussic acid content in sorghum species, forage sorghum, sorghum x sudangrass, and sudangrass. When a frost occurs, the stress it places on the plant can cause an accumulation of dhurrin, a compound that breaks down into prussic acid. If livestock consume forage with elevated levels of prussic acid, it can result in acute toxicity, leading to symptoms such as muscle twitching, staggering, and even death within minutes.

Iowa State University extension forage specialist Shelby Gruss offered these guidelines for managing risk from frost events.

To mitigate the risk of prussic acid toxicity following a frost, it’s important to take immediate action:
    Remove cattle before the frost. When a frost is forecasted, cattle should be removed from sorghum fields to prevent consumption of potentially toxic forage.
    Wait one week after frost. Cattle should not graze the field for at least one week following a frost. If another frost occurs within the week, the waiting period should extend an additional seven days, effectively restarting the clock.
    Look for regrowth. Following a non-killing frost, scanning the field for regrowth is invaluable because new tillers can have high levels of dhurrin. If the field has a considerable amount of regrowth waiting until the new growth is over 18 in. tall, or is killed by a killing frost is important to avoid high levels of prussic acid.
    Safe grazing sfter a killing frost. After a killing frost, prussic acid levels diminish to safer levels. One week after the killing frost, the forage is generally safe for livestock to graze. Additionally, densely planted sorghum species can help protect the interior from a killing frost. Walking into the field can help determine if the plants were killed.

Feeding alternatives
For producers concerned about managing sorghum forage after a frost, other methods such as silage and baleage offer safer options. The chopping and fermentation process involved in creating silage can reduce prussic acid content by over 50%, making it a safer choice than grazing or hay. Grazing is particularly risky as animals will selectively graze the leaf material which will accumulate higher levels of dhurrin. Haying at this point in time would be VERY difficult to dry down. Additionally, haying, contradictory to previously thought, does not reduce your risk of prussic acid potential.

Testing for prussic acid
If there is any doubt about the safety of sorghum forage following a frost, it is recommended to send samples for lab analysis. Fresh forage samples should be sealed in a high-quality plastic bag and chilled before being sent to a laboratory for testing.

For prussic acid testing, send samples to:
Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory
Iowa State University
1850 Christensen Drive
Ames, IA 50011

By following these guidelines, sorghum species can continue to be a safe and valuable forage resource for livestock. Proper management after frost events is critical to avoiding prussic acid toxicity and ensuring livestock safety.



NPPC Seeks Dismissal of Activist Challenge on Farm Emissions Reporting
 
The National Pork Producers Council and a coalition of livestock and farm groups filed a Motion for Summary Judgment asking a federal judge to reject activist challenges to the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) regulations exempting livestock farms from filing reports on routine air emissions associated with manure storage and handling. This comes a week after NPPC successfully defended the pork industry against activist attempts in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to force permitting requirements on livestock farms under the Clean Water Act.
 
In a nearly 16-year battle over air emissions reporting, the latest development stems from a challenge to EPA rules established after Congress passed the Fair Agricultural Reporting Method (FARM) Act in 2018. The law, which had strong bipartisan support, exempted concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) from reporting routine manure emissions to the Coast Guard's National Response Center under the Superfund Act (CERCLA).
 
Congress acted after a 2017 federal court ruling that required farmers to calculate, document, and report their farm emissions. The EPA then issued a rule under the FARM Act, exempting these emissions from mandatory reporting to local emergency response authorities, as the requirement under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) only applies if reports are required under CERCLA.
 
Activist groups challenged this EPA rule during the Trump Administration. After President Biden's election, the litigation paused while the EPA reconsidered its stance. Activists resumed their legal challenge when the Biden Administration ultimately supported livestock farmers and upheld the previous EPA rule.
 
In this week's filing, NPPC and its coalition partners asked the court to reject the arguments of the activist groups and uphold EPA's exemption from reporting routine air emissions to local emergency response authorities.
 
Mandating unnecessary reporting of routine manure emissions places an undue burden on farmers, who are still awaiting the EPA's completion of Emission Estimating Factors under the National Air Emissions Monitoring Study. It also overwhelms emergency responders with irrelevant data, hindering their ability to respond effectively to emergencies.



Price Discovery and Competition in Markets for Fed Cattle Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announced its next step to deliver on the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic commitment under the Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American Economy in the form of a new rulemaking effort under the Packers & Stockyards Act of 1921 to enhance price discovery, transparency, and fairness in cattle markets. AMS has issued an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking(ANPR) seeking public comment on several possible interventions to develop new benchmarks such as Alternative Marketing Arrangements (AMA) base prices and approaches to trading when using benchmarks.

The ANPR requests comment on a range of targeted options designed to ensure that base prices in fed cattle AMAs are broadly representative of general market conditions and are not vulnerable to distortion or strategic behavior that could cause prices to shift for reasons other than changes in supply and demand.

Interested persons are invited to submit comments concerning this notice by using the electronic process available at Regulations.gov. All comments should reference the document number and the date and page number of this issue of the Federal Register. All comments submitted in response to this notice will be posted without change, including any personal information provided, at Regulations.gov and will be included in the record and made available to the public.

Visit the Price Discovery and Competition in Markets for Fed Cattle webpage https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations/price-discovery-and-competition-markets-fed-cattle-anpr or view the ANPR fact sheet for more information



Agricultural Leader, Harley Janssen, Joins NCGA

Harley Janssen, a farmer and leader with over 20 years of experience in agriculture, construction and off-road technology, has joined the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). He will serve as the director of outputs and measurements, a newly created position at the organization.

“We are thrilled that Harley will be putting his extensive experience to work for our farmers,” said Sean Arians, vice president of sustainable production & value chain engagement at NCGA. “The high caliber experience he brings to this issue will help NCGA take its sustainability work to new heights.”

In his role, Janssen will translate and interpret production and sustainability data and help growers access new sustainability markets. For example, he will play a crucial role as NCGA helps farmers access tax credits that will allow them to sell into the aviation sector.

“We want to make certain that existing private and public sustainability programs are as inclusive as possible when it comes to how they work with and assist corn growers,” Jannsen said. “This is an exciting new challenge for me, and I look forward to working with my colleagues and the grower community to build a sustainability program at NCGA that is second to none.”

Janssen has led cross-functional teams of engineering, manufacturing, product management, customer support and customer success professionals. His first day at NCGA was on Monday, Oct. 7.



Student Leaders Prepare for 97th National FFA Convention & Expo

FFA members and supporters from across the country will celebrate agriculture and agricultural education during the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis. This time-honored tradition will be held Oct. 23-26.

The National FFA Organization is the nation’s premier school-based youth leadership development organization with more 1 million members and 9,000 chapters in rural, suburban, and rural schools in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. FFA’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

“Our FFA mission is to grow the next generation of leaders who will feed, fuel, clothe and sustain our world,” says Mandy Hazlett, associate director, convention & events management programs. “Throughout the year FFA is focused on career success and personal development for every student member, no matter what path they choose after high school graduation. The 97th National FFA Convention & Expo is a culmination of hard work throughout the members’ year as well as a prime opportunity to network with others from throughout the country.”

The National Convention & Expo is the largest gathering of FFA members each year. Attendees have the opportunity to compete, explore more than 350 careers, meet other members from across the country, shape the future of the organization, enjoy entertainment opportunities, and more.

CAREER SUCCESS
    Explore 350 careers in agriculture at the Expo
    Talk with 65 universities from across the country about their programs ranging from agriculture engineering to business management
    Participate in Career Success Tours to meet members of the community and learn about their businesses

PERSONAL GROWTH
    Attend the opening general session, featuring motivational speaker and comedian Kevin Wanzer
    Hear from keynote speaker Dr. Temple Grandin and be one of the first to screen her new documentary
    Attend student and teacher workshops

PREMIER LEADERSHIP
    475 FFA members from across the country will convene during the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo serving their role as convention delegates and conducting the organization’s official business.
    On the last day of the event, the new National FFA Officer team, the six students who will represent the organization for the next year, will be elected.
    4,805 American FFA Degrees will be awarded during the 97th National FFA Convention & Expo, to outstanding members for their achievements in agricultural education and FFA.

DAYS OF SERVICE
    FFA members will make an estimated 4,000 loom potholders in collaboration with Meals on Wheels on the Expo Hall floor in the Indiana Convention Center. Potholders will be given to volunteers who hand out warm meals to homebound seniors and to those receiving the meals.
    FFA members will spend an evening assembling Celebration Boxes while learning how to plan a similar project back home. Items in the boxes will support a birthday or a congratulations day for members of the Indianapolis community who might not have the means to celebrate.
    An estimated 3,185 delegates and FFA members will serve at 24 local non-profits to give back to the greater Indianapolis area.

COMPETITIVE EVENTS
    Students will participate in a variety of competitive events which will focus on their Supervised Agricultural Experiences as well as on their FFA Chapter activities.
    FFA members will also have the opportunity to participate in a Talent Competition.

ECONOMIC IMPACT
According to Visit Indy, the convention’s more than 65,000 visitors and use of the Indiana Convention Center, Lucas Oil Stadium, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indiana State Fairgrounds, and more than 100 hotels in Central Indiana will impact the region with an estimated $40 million in economic activity. The convention has been in Indianapolis since 2016 and it scheduled to remain there at least through 2033.

The 97th National Convention & Expo officially kicks off Wednesday, Oct. 23, when the Expo Hall opens at Noon and concludes on Saturday afternoon, Oct. 26, with the election of the new National Officer Team..

Those unable to attend in person are encouraged to watch on FFA Live!, FFA’s streaming broadcast beginning with the first drop of the gavel on Wednesday, Oct. 23 and ending with the election of the 2024-25 National FFA Officers on Saturday, Oct. 26. Additionally, student reporters will be hosting Inside Convention, a daily highlight show of all the key happenings at convention. The show will air at 11 a.m.EDT each day of the event and be available online at any time. Visit convention.ffa.org for more information.