Thursday October 10 Ag News

 Would I use this product?
Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Beef Systems Extension Educator

A new product based on a maternal appeasing substance (pheromone) for cattle (MBAS short for maternal bovine appeasing substance; Ferappease FerAppease Beef) hit the market a little over a year ago. This product, not in the scope of FDA regulation or evaluation, is intended to calm cattle during time of stress.

Since its release, much has been discussed in the field regarding its effectiveness. There are several scientific reports in the literature regarding its effectiveness. This is important, and a first step to determining whether it has the potential to achieve the desired results in the field.

Before going further, for the most part, comments from the field have been positive. At a cost of $0.30/ml, for a product requiring a two-site location application of 5 ml each (behind the poll and on the face above the muzzle), the cost ($3/head) does not seem prohibitive. Re-application is recommended when additional stress is expected such as re-vaccination or even in the days prior to harvest (in this case an oiler instead of individual application is recommended).

Assuming a total cost of $6/head (initial and re-vaccination application), the economic return resulting from preventing 0.3% mortality ($6 expense on a $2,000-feeder calf) would be sufficient to break even.

So, what have we learned from the use of this product in experimental conditions?

Performance. In at least three of the studies reviewed, during the receiving period (first 45 to 60 days on feed) cattle treated with MBAS gained faster than those in the control group. In all studies, cattle in the control group received a “placebo” treatment consisting of rubbing mineral oil or polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the same sites as where MBAS is applied. This is important to note as the possibility that rubbing a substance on the animal that may elicit a stress-calming response should be considered. However, a more stringent approach would have been to use the precise carrier ingredients that the MBAS uses instead of mineral oil or PEG.

For the seasoned cattle feeder or consultant, one would be satisfied to observe an improvement in feed intake even if gain was not affected. At present time, there is one study (from Brazil with bulls) that reports a positive effect of this MBAS on feed intake.

Results from a recent study indicated that morbidity and mortality were reduced in calves treated with MBAS. In that study, performance of cattle (deads out) was not affected by MBAS treatment. When accounting for 11.6% mortality and removal (due to unresponsiveness to treatment) in the control group (versus 3.33% in the treatment group), calves treated gained more weight.

Some questions remain in my head about deads in and deads out calculations. Final weight for control cattle pens (deads out) was 568 lb. After accounting for mortality and removal of calves not responding to treatment (11.6% as reported), final weight for control cattle was 456 lb. Dividing 456 by 568 yields a reduction in pen population of 19.7% not 11.6%.

This product was also tested in finishing cattle. An oiler placed in the feedlot pen and designed to deliver 120 ml of MBAS/steer during a 7-day period ($36/head) prior to slaughter reportedly enhanced dressing percentage but not hot carcass weight.

Stress-related measures and mortality. Most of the studies reported involved evaluation of stress hormone or stress-related measurement.

Plasma cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, was reported to be lower in calves treated with MBAS than those in the control group in at least two studies. Other stress-related hormones, such as haptoglobin, appeared not to respond to treatment with MBAS.

· As we wait for results from additional studies conducted by other universities, the question is would I use this product?

o Because there is indication that cortisol concentrations are affected by application of this treatment, the product merits evaluation on your operation.

· What would I expect to see in response to using it?

o Cattle that are less agitated and, hopefully, feed intakes recovering more rapidly from transport.

· Would I use it in finishing cattle?

o No. If a product improves dressing percentage but not hot carcass weight, it makes no sense to use on cattle marketed on a carcass basis. It makes less sense to use on cattle marketed on a live basis (lighter live final weight?).



Leise appointed as new director of Nebraska On-Farm Research Network

Adam Leise has been selected as the new director of the On-Farm Research Network. Leise, a recent graduate from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, brings both academic expertise and personal experience to the role, having grown up on a farm and ranch in Hartington.

The University of Nebraska‑Lincoln’s On-Farm Research Network collaborates directly with producers to address critical questions surrounding production, profitability, and natural resource management. Leise's background in agriculture and his master's degree in weed science from Amit Jhala's lab make him an ideal program leader. His thesis focused on the innovative See and Spray technology, demonstrating potential herbicide savings in corn and soybean fields.

"I am thrilled to step into this role and work with so many individuals involved in crop production and agricultural profitability," said Leise. "I'm eager to help answer farmers' questions and drive research that supports the future of Nebraska's agricultural community."

On-Farm Research: A Crucial Resource for Nebraska Farmers
The On-Farm Research Network plays a vital role in Nebraska's agricultural success by enabling producers to participate in rigorous, replicated research tailored to the unique conditions of their land. Each farm is different, and working directly with farmers to address specific concerns leads to valuable insights not only for individual operations but for the entire state.

"On-farm research is crucial for Nebraska, as each farm has unique structures, histories, practices, and goals," Nav Ghimire, associate dean of Nebraska Extension said. "It enables farmers to directly test new, research-driven practices, products, or technologies in their specific growing conditions."

Building on a Legacy
Nebraska Extension's history of on-farm research stretches back to 1989, when the Nebraska Soybean and Feed Grains Profitability Project brought together 20 producers in Saunders County to conduct randomized, replicated research to improve farm profitability. The success of this initiative led to the creation of the Quad Counties research group in 1998, expanding on-farm research to Clay, Fillmore, Hamilton and York Counties. The Nebraska On-Farm Research Network was established in 2012, continuing this tradition of producer-driven research across the state.

As Leise looks ahead, his goal is to push for even more research, building a knowledge base that provides economic stability and actionable insights for Nebraska farmers.

For more information about the Nebraska On-Farm Research Network, please visit on-farm-research.unl.edu.



Applications open for PFI program that lowers financial risk of reducing N rate

Farmers across the Midwest can now enroll in a Practical Farmers of Iowa program designed to save farmers money on inputs while lowering the risk of revenue loss when applying less nitrogen.

Through the N Rate Risk Protection Program, enrolled farmers partner with a PFI agronomist to determine a lower, economical rate of nitrogen to apply to corn. If participants experience a yield loss due to reducing their applied nitrogen, they receive a per-acre payment from PFI to help offset revenue loss.

“Many farmers question if they’re spending excess money by using a higher-than-needed nitrogen rate on their corn acres,” says Chelsea Ferrie, PFI’s field crops viability coordinator. “This program lets farmers try out a lower rate to see what makes the most economical sense for their farm.”

Nitrogen is an essential crop nutrient. But overuse can lead to excess nitrate in the soil that ends up leaching into waterways, potentially harming people, wildlife and aquatic ecosystems.

By making it less financially risky for farmers, the N Rate Risk Protection Program lets farmers experiment with lower nitrogen rates while helping them save money and enhance their land stewardship.

Program participants work with a PFI agronomist to figure out the right rate nitrogen reduction for their farm. If they experience yields below 95% of their non-adjusted APH, the program will pay $35 per acre to help make up the revenue difference.

To be eligible, farmers must:
    Raise corn in 2025
    Be willing to reduce nitrogen by at least 20 pounds per acre
    Manage corn conventionally; certified organic acres are not eligible
    Farm in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska or southeastern South Dakota

Both farmers who are new to saving on inputs and farmers who have reduced nitrogen rates in the past are eligible.

Enrollment is now open and will close April 30, 2025. Full details and the application form are available at practicalfarmers.org/n-rate-risk-protection-program.

For questions, to check eligibility or for help getting signed up, contact Chelsea Ferrie at (515) 232-5661 ext. 1040 or chelsea.ferrie@practicalfarmers.org.



Nebraska Cattlemen State Political Action Committee Announces Support for Twenty-Three Nebraska Legislature Candidates

Today, the Nebraska Cattlemen State Political Action Committee (PAC) announced their support for twenty-three candidates running to serve in the 109th legislative session of the Nebraska Unicameral.

Nebraska Cattlemen State PAC supported Candidates for the Nebraska Legislature:
LD 01 - Bob Hallstrom
LD 01 - Dennis Schaardt
LD 03 - Felix Ungerman
LD 09 - John Cavanaugh*
LD 13 - Nick Batter
LD 15 - Roxie Kracl
LD 17 - Glen Meyer
LD 17 - Mike Albrecht
LD 19 - Jeanne Reigle
LD 21 - Beau Ballard*
LD 23 - Dennis Fujan
LD 23 - Jared Storm
LD 25 - Carolyn Bosn*
LD 31 - Kathleen Kauth*
LD 33 - Dan Lonowski
LD 35 - Ray Aguilar*
LD 37 - Stanley Clouse
LD 39 - Tony Sorrentino
LD 41 - Dan McKeon
LD 43 - Tanya Storer
LD 45 - Rita Sanders*
LD 47 - Paul Strommen
LD 49 - Bob Andersen
*denotes an incumbent

The Nebraska Cattlemen State PAC aims to support candidates who champion the beef industry by making decisions about laws and regulations that enhance the business climate for profitable beef production in Nebraska and foster opportunities for expansion.



Nebraska Beef Passport Season Wraps Up with Continued Success

The 2024 Nebraska Beef Passport season concluded on September 30th marking another successful summer of Nebraskans enjoying beef across the state. Now in its fourth year, the program featured 32 restaurants and 19 meat processors.

"We had another great year of the Nebraska Beef Passport," said Adam Wegner, Marketing Director for the Nebraska Beef Council. "From Omaha to Scottsbluff and every town in between, this program really shows Nebraskan’s passion for great beef."

This year, the program logged 1,549 digital check-ins and 397 check-ins from printed passports. Among the most popular stops were Bronco’s Hamburgers in Omaha and The Cellar Sports Bar & Grill in Kearney, each welcoming over 60 passport visitors. McLean Beef in York stood out as the top meat processor, receiving over 50 check-ins.

Participants who made at least five check-ins became eligible for individual prizes provided by the Nebraska Beef Council. More than 100 prizes were awarded, with 18 participants reaching the milestone of 30+ check-ins, earning them a spot in the prestigious Beef Passport Hall of Fame. These individuals will be honored on the Hall of Fame page of the Nebraska Beef Passport website and will receive a special recognition gift from the Nebraska Beef Council. Each check-in collected on beef passports also qualified as an entry into the grand prize give-a-way for $250 in fresh beef. The drawing for two grand prize winners will take place later in October.

“The addition of the digital passports has allowed us to expand the program to feature even more locations and include more passport users,” said Wegner. “We’re looking forward to continued growth of this program as we highlight the fantastic beef items found throughout the state.”

Looking ahead to 2025, the Nebraska Beef Council is eager to celebrate the program’s fifth year by featuring new locations. Applications to be included in the 2025 Beef Passport program are available at www.GoodLifeGreatSteaks.org.



Nebraska corn checkoff fee doubles for growers

As Nebraska corn is harvested and delivered to elevators this year, growers will face an increase in their contributions to the corn checkoff program.

The Nebraska Legislature has approved a significant bill that doubles the amount farmers pay toward this corn promotion initiative from half a cent per bushel to one cent per bushel. This change took effect on October 1.

This increase marks the first adjustment in 12 years, reflecting the growing needs of the Nebraska Corn Board amid rising inflation rates. Kelly Brunkhorst, the executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board, emphasized the necessity of this increase to maintain the program's effectiveness.

“We want to ensure farmers they’re getting their money’s worth,” he stated, highlighting the importance of the funds in promoting Nebraska corn and supporting growers.

The checkoff program is essential for various activities, including research, marketing, and promotional efforts designed to enhance the visibility and consumption of Nebraska corn. By doubling the fee, the Corn Board aims to secure additional resources to tackle current challenges and capitalize on market opportunities.

Farmers may have mixed feelings about the increased fee, but it is crucial to consider the long-term benefits that the program provides. The funds generated will help in developing new markets for Nebraska corn and supporting educational programs that benefit farmers directly.

The increase also underscores the broader economic pressures facing agricultural producers. As input costs rise and the agricultural landscape evolves, having a robust promotion program becomes even more critical for maintaining competitiveness in the marketplace.

In conclusion, while the increase in the corn checkoff fee may present an added expense for Nebraska farmers, it is a strategic move aimed at ensuring the continued success and viability of the corn industry in the state. By investing in promotion and support initiatives, farmers can look forward to stronger market opportunities in the future.



30-Day Harvest Weight Proclamation Extension Effective Immediately

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds granted Iowa Corn’s request and signed a proclamation today granting a temporary 30-day weight limit exemption for trucks operating on Iowa roads to support the haul of this year’s crop during harvest. The proclamation extension will be effective immediately. The 2024 Harvest Weight Proclamation specifically increases the weight allowable for shipment of corn, soybeans, hay, straw and stover, by 12.5 percent per axle (up to a maximum of 90,000 pounds) without the need for an oversize/overweight permit.

The 2024 proclamation again applies to loads transported on all highways within Iowa, excluding the federal interstate system. Trucks cannot exceed the truck’s regular maximum by more than 12.5 percent per axle and must obey the posted limits on all roads and bridges.

“On behalf of Iowa’s farmers, we extend our gratitude to Governor Reynolds for extending the harvest weight proclamation as it is a tremendous help for Iowa’s corn farmers,” said Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) President Stu Swanson, a farmer from Galt, Iowa. “With the large corn crop coming out of the fields the extended weight allocation for a 500-acre Iowa corn farmer would require 13 fewer truckloads and a 1000-acre Iowa Corn farmer would require 26 fewer truckloads. This saving is felt at the farm level bottom line as both a time saver and a fuel saver.”

The proclamation directs the Iowa Department of Transportation to monitor the operation of the proclamation and assure the public’s safety by facilitating the movement of the trucks involved. Farmers who are transporting grain are also required to follow their vehicle safety standards on axle weights.

The exemption will be granted for 30 days beginning October 9, 2024 to November 8, 2024.



Investments to Expand E15, Biodiesel in Iowa

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig announced today that the Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program (RFIP) Board recently approved 126 project applications from Iowa gas stations for new and expanded E15, E85, and biodiesel infrastructure projects. Totaling nearly $6.35 million dollars, the projects are located across 61 Iowa counties and will allow drivers to save more money by providing more access to lower cost and cleaner burning homegrown biofuels. The awards were made by the RFIP Board during meetings held in August and September.

New ethanol fueling infrastructure will be funded with the help of 88 cost-share grants totaling nearly $4.5 million for gas stations throughout Iowa, a record for one quarter. The board also approved 38 biodiesel retail cost-share grants totaling over $1.8 million, also a record for one quarter.

“Iowa drivers gain another opportunity to save money every time a new pump is installed or upgraded at an Iowa gas station to dispense E15 and other higher biofuel blends. It’s exciting to see the momentum within our state’s renewable fuels industry as we see record ethanol production by our plants, record ethanol and biodiesel consumption by our drivers, and now record cost-share investment in ethanol and biodiesel infrastructure by our gas stations,” said Secretary Naig. “We want to keep the Iowa biofuels momentum going because it not only saves drivers money, but it also supports rural jobs, expands markets for farmers, burns cleaner, and enhances our energy security.”

Examples of grants awarded this round.....
County Gas Station Location City Amount Type
Adair Kwik Star 110 Street & S Division Street Stuart $50,000.00 Biodiesel
Carroll Casey's General Store 613 US Hwy 30 W Carroll $32,247.35 E15
Carroll Casey's General Store 705 Idaho St Glidden $25,445.79 E15
Crawford Denison Country Store 1108 4th Ave. S Denison $75,000.00 E15
Harrison Casey's General Store 602 Lincoln Way Street Woodbine $29,140.03 E15
Ida Casey's General Store 714 S Main Street Holstein $32,819.77 E15
Monona Casey's General Store 401 S 4th Street Mapleton $36,377.89 E15
Monona Casey's General Store 706 10th Street Onawa $52,092.94 E15
Sioux Casey's General Store 612 Division St Hull $50,000.00 Biodiesel
Woodbury Casey's General Store 4 S 1st Street Moville $21,503.16 E15
Woodbury Kwik Star S Lew Blvd & Glenn Ave Sioux City $75,000.00 E15
Woodbury Casey's General Store 104 Buckley Street Sloan $41,846.89 E15

Enacted in 2022, Iowa’s E15 Access Standard requires most retailers to offer E15 for sale by January 1, 2026. With ample state and federal cost-share assistance still available, now is an ideal time for even more gas stations to upgrade their infrastructure. The RFIP helps fuel retailers offer higher blends of homegrown, more affordable fuel options to consumers by incentivizing the installation, replacement and conversion of ethanol and biodiesel dispensing and storage infrastructure. Incentives to upgrade biodiesel terminal and storage facilities are also available. While the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship manages the program, a board appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Iowa Senate determines grant allocations on a quarterly basis.

The Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Board will consider additional RFIP grant applications in the coming months. The RFIP grant application is available on the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s website.

The RFIP also leverages significant private investment by the participating fuel retailers. Over the history of the program, the state has invested over $88 million while private industry has invested over $260 million. To learn more about the Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program, visit the program’s webpage on the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s website.



August Pork Exports Above Year-Ago; Beef Exports Trend Lower

Fueled by another outstanding performance from Mexico, August exports of U.S. pork increased year-over-year, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). U.S. beef exports were below year-ago levels in August while lamb exports trended higher, posting the largest volume since January.

August demand for U.S. pork robust in Western Hemisphere, ASEAN region
August pork exports totaled 238,989 metric tons (mt), up 6% from a year ago but the second lowest of 2024. Export value increased 8% to $702.9 million. In addition to the strong results in Mexico, exports trended higher to Central and South America, the Caribbean and the ASEAN region. August shipments to Malaysia were record-large, while exports to Colombia achieved a value record.

For January through August, pork exports were just under 2 million mt, up 4% from a year ago, while valued climbed 7% to $5.68 billion. Pork export value was on a record pace through August, and USMEF projects both export volume and value will reach record highs in 2024.

“Mexico was once again the pacesetter for U.S. pork, but demand throughout the Western Hemisphere was outstanding in August,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “Shipments to South America posted the highest value on record, while exports to Central America and the Caribbean also achieved strong growth. These markets are increasingly competitive, so it is essential that the U.S. industry defends its market share while also developing marketing efforts that help expand overall consumption.”

Beef exports trend higher to Mexico, Taiwan, Middle East, but lower overall
Beef exports totaled 102,682 mt in August, down 6% from a year ago and the lowest since January. Export value fell 4% to $845.9 million. Mexico’s demand for U.S. beef remained robust in August, while exports also trended higher to Taiwan, the Middle East and the ASEAN region. But these results were offset by lower shipments to Japan, South Korea and China/Hong Kong.

Through the first eight months of the year, beef exports were 3% below last year at 856,834 mt, but were 4% higher in value at just under $7 billion.

“Beef demand in our major Asian markets seemed to lose a bit of momentum in August, but exports held up well to Mexico, Taiwan and the Middle East,” Halstrom said. “The headwinds in Asia remain formidable, but we are encouraged by the region’s ongoing tourism rebound. The late-September removal of Colombia’s restrictions on U.S. beef is also a positive development. While this came too late to impact the August results, it will help bolster fourth-quarter demand in Latin America.”

August lamb exports largest since January
Exports of U.S. lamb reached 288 mt in August, up 170% from last year’s low volume. Export value was $1.16 million, up 70%. These results drove January-August exports 20% above last year’s pace in volume (1,946 mt) and 23% higher in value ($10.2 million). While larger shipments to the Caribbean and Mexico accounted for most of this growth, exports also trended higher year-over-year to the Philippines, Canada, Guatemala and Taiwan.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 10/4/2024

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending October 4, ethanol production expanded 2.3% to 1.04 b/d, equivalent to 43.60 million gallons daily. Output was 3.4% more than the same week last year and 6.4% above the five-year average for the week. Still, the four-week average ethanol production rate declined 1.0% to 1.02 million b/d, which is equivalent to an annualized rate of 15.74 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks dropped 5.6% to 22.2 million barrels, which is a 43-week low. Yet, stocks were 2.9% more than the same week last year and 5.2% above the five-year average. Inventories thinned across all regions.

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, skyrocketed 13.3% to 9.65 million b/d (148.40 bg annualized)—the largest weekly volume since the end of December 2021. Demand was 12.5% more than a year ago and 9.8% above the five-year average.

However, refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol modestly increased, rising 0.4% to 912,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.02 bg annualized. Net inputs were 0.9% more than year-ago levels and 0.9% above the five-year average.

Ethanol exports were estimated at 141,000 b/d (5.9 million gallons/day), reflecting a 38.2% increase over the prior week. It has been 55 weeks since imports of ethanol were recorded.



Register for Free Virtual Stockmanship & Stewardship Event

Stockmanship & Stewardship is going virtual for a unique educational experience on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, 9:00am-5:30pm (Central). This online version of the popular in-person event provides an opportunity for cattle producers to learn about the latest technology, listen to industry updates, and understand the role Beef Quality Assurance plays in the conversation.

The full-day free event features nationally recognized speakers and clinicians discussing topics such as biosecurity, cattle handling, grazing, sustainability, innovative technology and industry trends. The program brings together beef and dairy producers, stakeholders and key industry members to engage in the discussion of current challenges, consumer driven trends, and realistic strategies to enhance producers’ commitment to stockmanship and stewardship.

Stockmanship & Stewardship is sponsored by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Neogen, and the Beef Checkoff-funded Beef Quality Assurance program. The event will also be recorded and available to watch on-demand.

"As a leader within the cattle industry, Neogen is proud to be a partner in beef production. For more than 40 years, we have provided cattlemen and women with unmatched support and expert solutions for their operations," said Elizabeth Wonsowski, livestock director of marketing at Neogen. "We recognize that education and resources are key to advancing operations forward and are proud to support NCBA and the Beef Checkoff through the Stockmanship & Stewardship program. This engaging virtual format enhances accessibility to producers across the country as we advance global food security.”

For more information and to register for free, visit www.StockmanshipAndStewardship.org.



Export Exchange 2024 Wraps, Trade Teams Heading Across The Country

Export Exchange 2024, sponsored by the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), culminated on Wednesday with a focus on new products, sustainability and the superior value of U.S. corn.

“We are incredibly excited to see the impact that this week will have in the coming year as international stakeholders continue to generate new business within the U.S. value chain,” Ryan LeGrand, USGC president and CEO said. “Export Exchange has proven to be a crucial part in strengthening U.S. relationships with international industry professionals and therefore, strengthening the U.S. agriculture industry for years to come.”

Speakers during the last day of the event illustrated numerous reasons why U.S. commodities offer the best advantage to global buyers and how its scalable and transparent export system provides direct access to satisfy grain needs around the world.

Topics during Wednesday’s general sessions, covered by top experts in their fields, included “New Co-Products in the Market,” by Joe Ward, executive director of the Distillers Grains Technology Council; “Sustainable Corn and Co-Products Exports,” presented by USGC Director of Global Sustainability Carlos Suárez; and a panel, “Value of U.S. Corn,” featuring Dr. Vijay Singh from the University of Illinois, USGC Senior Director of Global Strategies Kurt Shultz and Technical Sales Manager at CPM Industrial Solutions Doug Kitch.

Export Exchange 2024 allows buyers and sellers of U.S. corn, distiller’s dried grains with solubles (DDGS), sorghum and other commodities to network and gain a better understanding of the needs of buyers around the world and the caliber of supply the U.S. provides.

As Export Exchange ends, 13 trade teams will continue the momentum and head to corn-growing states to see advanced farming operations, explore DDGS production at ethanol plants, view port facilities and more to build their networks with U.S. suppliers, rounding out their time in the United States.

These groups include:
- China: heading to Kansas, Oct. 9-13
- China: heading to Texas and New Mexico, Oct. 9-13
- Taiwan: staying in Texas, Oct. 10
- Mexico: heading to North Dakota, Oct. 9-12
- Mexico: heading to Missouri, Oct. 9-12
- Middle East and Africa: staying in Texas, Oct. 9-12
- Middle East and Africa: heading to Georgia and Maryland, Oct. 9-12
- Middle East and Africa: heading to Iowa and New Orleans, Oct. 9-12
- Middle East and Africa: heading to Arkansas, Oct. 9-12
- Latin America: heading to Kentucky and Tennessee, Oct. 9-12
- Southeast Asia: staying in Texas, Oct. 9-11
- Southeast Asia: heading to Illinois, Oct. 9-12
- Southeast Asia: heading to Colorado Oct. 9-12

More information is available at www.exportexchange.org or on social media at #ExEx24.



Winners Announced at the 2024 Ag Innovators Unconference

The 2024 Ag Innovators Unconference, held at the Landus Events Center, concluded Thursday with the announcement of two prestigious awards recognizing innovation and leadership in the ag-tech industry. Kyle McMahon, founder of Tractor Zoom, was named Ag-tech Founder of the Year, and FloVision Solutions, led by Rian Mc Donnell, received the Ag-tech Startup of the Year award.

Ag Startup Engine, an organization led by founders, felt it was important to celebrate those who have reached critical milestones over the last year. These awards, open to all startup founders in food and agriculture, recognize individuals and companies making meaningful contributions in the agriculture industry through innovative technology.

Kyle McMahon, founder of Tractor Zoom, has reshaped how farmers and equipment dealers interact by streamlining the equipment auction process. Sponsored by Iowa Farm Bureau, McMahon’s recognition underscores his efforts to make the equipment market more transparent and accessible to farmers, transforming a crucial part of the industry.

FloVision Solutions, founded by Rian Mc Donnell, was recognized as the Ag-tech Startup of the Year, an award sponsored by Dentons Davis Brown PC. FloVision’s innovative AI-based sensor system helps food processors improve yields and quality by providing real-time data on performance and errors. This technology is enhancing food production efficiency, addressing challenges in quality control, and improving workforce skills in the processing sector.

"We are proud to celebrate the achievements of Kyle McMahon and Rian Mc Donnell, both of whom embody the best of ag-tech innovation,” said Joel Harris, Executive Director of Ag Startup Engine. “Their contributions are making a lasting impact on the future of agriculture, and we look forward to seeing how their work continues to evolve.”

The awards ceremony capped off a day filled with insightful keynotes, engaging panel discussions, and powerful case studies that explored the future of high-tech hardware in agriculture.

For more information on the 2024 Ag Innovators Unconference please visit www.agstartupengine.com.



Smithfield Foods and its Employees Donate More than 600,000 Pounds of Food During Hunger Action Month

Smithfield Foods employees collected more than 32,000 pounds of food and grocery items for the companywide food drive during Feeding America’s Hunger Action Month®, a 28% increase from the previous year. The donated items are equivalent to more than 27,000 meals.

In addition to the food items collected by its employees, Smithfield donated more than 600,000 pounds of protein to food banks in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Virginia throughout the month of September. Equivalent to more than 2.4 million servings, these donations will help fight hunger in local communities across the country.

“Smithfield Foods employees rise to the challenge every year during Hunger Action Month,” said Jonathan Toms, senior community development manager for Smithfield Foods. “Smithfield is proud to do our part to help alleviate hunger in local communities where our employees live, work and raise their families.”

Hunger Action Month is a nationwide effort to raise awareness about hunger in America and inspire action. Smithfield’s employee food drive donations will benefit nearby food banks to help address food insecurity across the United States.

“For people facing hunger, donations of protein are valuable during Hunger Action Month and all throughout the year,” said Erika Thiem, chief supply chain officer for Feeding America. “The unwavering commitment and generous support from Smithfield and their team members is vital to our mission to help end hunger."

Smithfield supports the Feeding America network of local food banks throughout the year with its signature hunger-relief initiative program, Helping Hungry Homes®. This program has provided hundreds of millions of servings of protein in all 50 U.S. states since 2008. Smithfield donated 30.2 million servings of protein to food banks, disaster relief efforts and community outreach programs across the U.S. in 2023 and has pledged to donate 200 million servings of protein by 2025.