Nebraska Soybean Board Announces Call for Candidates in Districts 2, 4 and 8
There are three district seats on the Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) eligible for election this year. Soybean producers in Districts 2, 4 and 8 are invited to run for election to the Nebraska Soybean Board by filing a candidacy petition by the April 15, 2013 deadline. The election of board members will be conducted via direct-mail ballots and candidate information will be provided to all producers residing within the district in which an election is to be held.
NSB Board Members receive no salary but are reimbursed for expenses incurred while carrying out Board business and will serve a three-year term that begins October 1, 2013.
District seats open are:
District 2: Counties Burt, Cuming, Dakota, Dixon, Stanton, Thurston and Wayne.
District 4: Counties of Boone, Hamilton, Merrick, Nance, Platte, Polk and York.
District 8: Counties of Arthur, Banner, Blaine, Box Butte, Brown, Chase, Cherry, Cheyenne, Custer, Dawes, Dawson, Deuel, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Garden, Garfield, Gosper, Grant, Greeley, Harlan, Hayes, Hitchcock, Hooker, Howard, Keith, Keya Paha, Kimball, Lincoln, Logan, Loup, McPherson, Morrill, Perkins, Phelps, Red Willow, Rock, Scotts Bluff, Sheridan, Sherman, Sioux, Thomas, Valley and Wheeler.
Candidates for the NSB seats must be:
• A Resident of Nebraska
• 21 years of age or older
• Soybean producer in Nebraska for at least five previous years
Prospective candidates must collect the signatures of 50 soybean producers in their district using an official Nebraska Soybean Board Candidacy Petition and return such petition to the Nebraska Soybean Board office on or before April 15, 2013, to be eligible for placement on the ballot. To obtain a candidacy petition, contact Victor Bohuslavsky at the Nebraska Soybean Board by calling 402-432-5720.
The nine-member Nebraska Soybean Board collects and disburses the Nebraska share of funds generated by the one half of one percent times the net sales price per bushel of soybeans sold. Nebraska soybean checkoff funds are invested in research, education, domestic and foreign markets, including new uses for soybeans and soybean products.
Seeking Candidates for Position on the United Soybean Board
The Nebraska Soybean Board (NSB) is seeking candidates to fill a United Soybean Board (USB) Member position. If you are an interested soybean farmer please contact the NSB office.
USB is made up of 69 farmer-directors who oversee the investments of the soybean checkoff on behalf of all U.S. soybean farmers. Checkoff funds are invested in the areas of animal utilization, human utilization, industrial utilization, industry relations, market access and supply. As stipulated in the Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soybean checkoff.
USB Members receive no compensation but are reimbursed for expenses incurred while carrying out Board business. USB Directors serve three-year terms.
This position is open to all soybean farmers in Nebraska. NSB will nominate two candidates and the appointment will be made by the USDA Secretary of Agriculture. The USDA has a policy that membership on USDA boards and committees is open to all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation and marital or family status.
Anyone interested in applying needs to meet the following criteria:
Be involved in a farming operation that raises soybeans.
Be a resident of Nebraska.
Be at least 21 years of age.
For more information please contact Victor Bohuslavsky at 402-432-5720, before the March 1, 2013 deadline.
Nebraska Farmers Offer “Free Groceries for a Year!” - Sweepstakes launches Jan. 7 at www.FarmersFeedUS.org
Whoever said there’s no such thing as a free lunch has never met a Nebraska farmer. In fact, they are offering the chance for residents of the state to win a free breakfast, lunch and dinner by way of free groceries– for an entire year.
Beginning today, Nebraskans can register for a chance at one of two grand prizes of $5,000 “Free Groceries for a Year!”* courtesy of a group of Nebraska farmers, a veterinarian and a grocer, at www.FarmersFeedUS.org. Upon visiting the site, consumers register by “meeting” one of their fellow Nebraskans through a short video that shows how each is involved in producing safe, nutritious and affordable food. Consumers can register with each of the seven featured individuals daily through April 8, the end of the 90-day program.
The Farmers Feed US website features corn, dairy, hog, soybean and turkey farmers, as well as a veterinarian and a grocer, each sharing information about the foods they produce.
Featured Nebraskans include:
• Danny Kluthe, hog farmer, Dodge
• Chad Bartek, soybean farmer, Ithaca
• Angela Baysinger, veterinarian, Bruning
• Kyle Cantrell, corn farmer, Anselmo
• Dean Engelman, dairy farmer, Jansen
• Mike Shinn, turkey farmer, Gibbon
• Pat Raybould, grocer, Lincoln
“As Nebraskans, we’re thrilled to offer free groceries for a year to the consumers of our state,” said Chad Bartek, a soybean farmer from Ithaca, Nebraska, who is a featured farmer on FarmersFeedUS.org. “This is an opportunity for us to share what we produce with consumers of the state and to let them know we share their values - taking care of our families, taking care of our animals and land and giving back to our communities.”
Over the course of the sweepstakes, consumers throughout the state will also see and hear from these farmers as they are featured in television advertising and on Facebook (www.Facebook.com/nefarmersfeedus) and Twitter (www.Twitter.com/nefarmersfeedus).
Supporting Nebraska agriculture groups include the Alliance for the Future of Agriculture in Nebraska (A-FAN), Nebraska Soybean Board, Nebraska Pork Producers, Nebraska Corn Board, Midwest Dairy Association, and B&R Grocery.
Is Roundup Ready® Alfalfa the Right Choice for Your Operation?
Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension Forage Specialist
Are you considering planting a new field to a Roundup Ready® alfalfa variety this spring? If so, make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons.
These varieties make it easy to control most weeds; however, easy weed control shouldn’t be the only reason you plant them. Here are a few factors to consider.
- For cow-calf producers planting grass-alfalfa mixtures in hay fields, Roundup® would kill the grass as well as the weeds. In these situations, conventional varieties would be more appropriate.
- If you are planting oats with the alfalfa and planning to harvest the oats for either hay or as grain and straw, Roundup shouldn’t be used until after oat harvest. If a good stand of alfalfa is present after harvest, further weed control with Roundup or any other herbicide may not be needed.
- Also remember that keeping an alfalfa field weed-free may not always increase hay tonnage. For some feed uses, having some weeds in the hay may be acceptable. This often is true if alfalfa fields are rotated to a different crop after three or four years of production. If a good stand can be established using other weed control options, weeds often don’t become a big problem until stands get older and start to thin out.
When planning your next alfalfa planting, consider how you’ll be using the harvest and whether the added $2.50 per pound of seed for this new trait makes sense for your operation.
Resolutions for a New Year
Senator Mike Johanns
This new year brings to Washington a fresh start. Last week, we welcomed to the 113th Congress many new faces, including my colleague Senator Deb Fischer.
I am proud to be joined by such a competent and capable leader who has aptly served Nebraska for years. I am confident Deb will bring the same passion to Capitol Hill, and I look forward to working with her to address the issues facing our state and country.
Although it’s a new year and a new session, many of the important issues we must tackle are far from novel. Our country’s debt has grown, and the government is spending more than it takes in. Our economy is still searching for traction, and many Americans remain unemployed or underemployed.
In 2013, Congress must resolve to make these issues the top priority. We cannot afford to let this opportunity to address the state of our economy slip away.
For my part, I will be joining the Senate Committee on Appropriations, which is directly involved in doling out and reining in federal dollars for different government programs—I think it’s time we do less of the former and more of the latter. We need to find places to trim the fat while ensuring important programs receive adequate resources. This will require difficult decisions by me and all of my colleagues in Congress—decisions that must be made.
I will also remain on the Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs and Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs committees, where I will continue to push for a new five-year farm bill, strengthen and improve services for our vets and fight for pro-growth financial reform policies.
The committee process is essential to the operation of the Senate. The most effective method for the Senate to get its work done in a timely manner is by debating and amending bills in committee, then allowing the full Senate an opportunity to debate and amend them. That's how the Senate is supposed to work and how potential new laws should be scrutinized. Unfortunately, for far too long Congress has failed to pass a budget. The result has been a sputtering Senate which lurches from one crisis to the next, often stalling until the last minute. Senators have been resigned to voting on massive year-end bills to avert calamities we’ve all known were coming.
We must return to a regular order where bills can be thoroughly vetted in committee and debated in the Senate with opportunities for amendments along the way. Unfortunately, the Senate has not been allowed to work this way in recent years.
Clearly, we have our work cut out for us in 2013, but I am optimistic that we can achieve our goals if we take advantage of this new window of opportunity and allow the Senate processes to work as designed. As I have in the past, I stand ready to work with my fellow Senators from both sides of the aisle to make the difficult decisions we were sent here to make.
Managing Through Stress: A Livestock Information Event Is Feb. 4
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and Iowa Farm Bureau Federation are teaming up to deliver current market and management information to Iowa livestock farmers in these challenging times. The “Managing Through Stress: A Livestock Information Event” will be held Monday, Feb. 4.
The event starts at 10 a.m. with a morning general session delivered to 14 sites throughout the state via the Web. Farmers will hear from leading experts on livestock and feed price outlook and strategy, weather outlook, financial strategies and managing the stress of farming in challenging times. After lunch, each site will have local presentations geared toward the challenges faced by a specific species of livestock – beef, swine or dairy. Afternoon sessions will be facilitated by ISU Extension and Outreach livestock specialists.
“This information is vital for Iowa farmers right now because they are making 2013 livestock business decisions and there is a lot on the table for them,” said Ed Kordick, IFBF commodity services manager. “Those who come to the ‘Managing Through Stress’ event can hear nationally noted experts give advice on a variety of issues, including the looming feed supply and 2013 costs.”
Morning presenters are Chad Hart and Lee Schultz, economists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach; Elwynn Taylor, ISU Extension and Outreach climatologist; and Dr. Mike Rosmann, ag behavioral health psychologist. Hart and Schultz will present 2013 feed and livestock price outlooks and strategies, while Taylor will give the weather outlook. Rosmann will speak about indicators of human stress.
The seminar is free to farmers; there is no registration required. More information can be found at www.iowafarmbureau.com, on the ISU Extension and Outreach calendar, or by contacting IFBF commodity services manager Ed Kordick at ekordick@ifbf.org.
Seminar locations and afternoon focus at each location
- Borlaug Learning Center, 3327 290th St., Nashua — Swine
- Buena Vista County Extension Office, 824 Flindt Dr., Storm Lake — Swine
- Carroll County Extension Office, 1205 West US Hwy 30 Ste G., Carroll — Swine
- Delaware County Extension Office, 1417 N. Franklin St., Manchester — Dairy
- Guthrie County Extension Office, 212 State St., Guthrie Center — Beef
- Jefferson County Extension Office, 2606 W. Burlington Ave., Fairfield — Beef
- Mahaska County Extension Office, 212 North I St., Oskaloosa — Swine
- Marion County Extension Office, 210 N. Iowa St., Knoxville — Beef
- Plymouth County Extension Office, 251 12th St. SE, LeMars — Beef
- Postville YMCA, 313 West Post St., Postville — Dairy
- Sioux County Extension Office, 400 Central Ave. NW Suite 700, Orange City — Dairy
- Tama County Extension Office, 203 W. High St., Toledo — Beef
- Washington County Extension Office, 2223 250th St., Washington — Swine
- Wright County Extension Office, 210 1st St. SW, Clarion — Beef and Swine
IOWA CROP SUMMARY, DECEMBER 2012
Moisture continues to be an important topic across Iowa. Although drought conditions in some areas have eased and many were glad to see significant snowfall, concerns remain about how much moisture will be available in the Spring.
As December came to a close, topsoil moisture levels rated 45 percent very short, 42 percent short, 13 percent adequate, and 0 percent surplus. The driest area of the State was the northwest corner with 59 percent very short, very similar to the area’s condition last winter at this time.
Grain movement rated 47 percent none, 40 percent light, 11 percent moderate and 2 percent heavy. The snow and ice received December 19 and 20 slowed grain movement in some areas.
Availablity of hay and roughage supplies was 41 percent short, 57 percent adequate and 2 percent surplus with 31 percent of the supply in good condition. Livestock conditions have been reported as normal. Hog and pig losses in December were 26 percent light, 73 percent average and 1 percent heavy. Cattle and calf losses were the same with 26 percent light, 73 percent average and 1 percent heavy.
IOWA PRELIMINARY WEATHER SUMMARY DECEMBER 2012
Provided by Harry Hillaker, State Climatologist, Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship
General Summary:
December temperatures averaged 27.6 degrees or 4.7 degrees above normal while precipitation totaled 1.57 inches or 0.23 inches above normal. This ranks as the 39th warmest and 34th wettest December among 140 years of records.
Temperatures:
The month began with exceptionally mild weather as temperatures averaged above normal for 19 of the first twenty days of December, the exception being on the 10th when the season’s first subzero temperatures were recorded at a few northwest Iowa locations. Highs reached into the 60s somewhere in the state each of the first four days of the month with 50s or higher on 11 of the first 18 days. Keokuk was the hot spot with a high of 73 degrees on the 3rd. This missed the state record for December, set back on December 6, 1939 at Thurman, by only one degree. Colder weather prevailed late in the month with ten of the final eleven days averaging colder than normal. Spencer reported the lowest temperature with a reading of -9 degrees at midnight on the 31st.
Heating Degree Day Totals:
Home heating requirements, as estimated by heating degree day totals, averaged 3 percent greater than last December but 12 percent less than normal. Thus far this heating season (since July 1) degree day totals are running 6 percent more than a year ago but 6 percent less than normal.
Precipitation:
A pair of storms brought most of the month’s precipitation and brought an end to a very dry period that saw a statewide average of just 0.19 inches of precipitation for the five weeks following Veteran’s Day. The first event brought rain statewide from late on the 14th to early on the 16th with an average of 0.57 inches falling. The second storm, the afternoon of the 19th to the afternoon of the 20th, brought a blizzard to much of the state but was preceded by unseasonably heavy rainfall near the Illinois border. The greatest snow fell from west central into northeast Iowa with 14.4 inches reported at Dubuque, 13.8 inches at Johnston and 13.0 inches at Marshalltown and Conrad. Wind gusts over 50 mph were common on the 20th with a peak gust of 60 mph at Ottumwa. The heavy wet, sticky snow brought down numerous trees and power lines, resulting in tens of thousands of customers losing power. This event brought a statewide average of 0.74 inches of precipitation and 5.6 inches of snowfall. Rainfall prior to the blizzard exceeded two inches in the Muscatine and Quad Cities areas. Monthly precipitation totals varied from 0.60 inches at Sidney to 3.75 inches at Muscatine. The rain from the first December storm, as well as that over southeastern Iowa from the second storm, fell prior to the onset of cold weather. Thus, a large percentage of this rain was able to soak into the ground and provide a much needed boost to soil moisture. The limited amount of data available suggests that the uppermost few inches of soil were frozen by month’s end, despite widespread snow cover.
Iowa Food & Family Project and SUBWAY® restaurants partner to strengthen connections between food, farmers, consumers
The Iowa Food & Family Project and SUBWAY® restaurants share many values, including the commitment to raising awareness about healthy food options, connecting people to their food and supporting Iowa farmers and local communities.
Now, they are partnering this year to take those shared values to a higher level.
“This is an exciting collaboration for the Iowa Food & Family Project (FFP) as we demonstrate a direct connection between Iowa farmers and the food many people enjoy every day,” says Aaron Putze, director of communications for the Iowa Soybean Association and coordinator of the Iowa Food & Family Project.
“SUBWAY® restaurants are known for healthy options, quick service and a commitment to wellness,” Putze adds. “Iowa farmers work to supply those items needed for companies to succeed and meet the needs of today’s consumer.”
For example, many Iowa turkey farmers work with West Liberty Foods, a company that prepares turkey meat for SUBWAY® restaurants.
“I’m excited about this new relationship with the Iowa Food & Family Project as our stores are locally owned and those owners are very committed to serving their communities,” says Christian Renaux, an account executive representing SUBWAY® restaurants. “We share a common interest with Iowa farmers as we want our customers to know where their food comes from and trust them as a source of healthy food options.”
The first event featuring the new partnership celebrates football and food in February. The Iowa FFP and SUBWAY® are teaming up to award one lucky Iowan a feast to be enjoyed during the NFL’s “big game” to be played Sunday, Feb. 3.
The sweepstakes kicked off in December at the Coral Ridge Mall in Coralville, Jordan Creek Mall in West Des Moines and Mall of Bluffs in Council Bluffs. The prize package valued at $500 includes SUBWAY® sandwiches, cookies and other assorted snacks and gifts. It will be personally delivered by a farmer to the winner in time to enjoy with family and friends during the big game.
SUBWAY® and the Iowa FFP will also collaborate on sponsoring on-farm experiences throughout the year for Iowans wanting to learn more about what farmers do and create special in-store promotions celebrating great food and the people who grow it.
Farmers and Ranchers are Telling Beef’s Story
Brenda Black, cow-calf producer and Cattlemen’s Beef Board member from Deepwater, Mo., is also a graduate of the checkoff’s Masters of Beef Advocacy Program (or MBA program). During graduation training, she learned more about the checkoff’s “Having the Beef Conversation” booklet which is available in a print, online and mobile version. She says, “So many people are far-removed from agriculture. There is probably, and I don’t mean this disrespectfully, there is probably more ignorance about agricultural business and the actual farming of food than there has ever been in the history of country. And it’s alarming, but it’s also challenging and exciting – it gives you a purpose for why we need to be out sharing what we do, and it validates the importance of what we do. We have to educate people and share those stories. And so I think twofold, it needs to be done because people are removed from the source of their food, and it has to be done because it helps us realize the value of what we do. And I think it makes us feel better about what we do and challenges us to do it even better.”
Black says using the checkoff's newly revised "flip book" of beef checkoff and beef industry facts and messages -- and getting out there in the community -- are easy steps to opening the lines of communication between producers and consumers. “It’s a useful tool. Farmers, cattlemen, we know how to work with our hands. We’re thinkers, we’re planners, and this is just one more tool. It makes it easy to share the most pertinent information about hot topics and it’s handy! So I think beef cattle farmers that are already CEOs and nutritionists and mechanics and vets, and they’re conservationists, but here’s one more thing that they can put in their toolbox, and it’s one more hat that we need to wear – and that is to become conversationalists.”
Black says that with the many hats she wears, it’s sometimes hard to be an expert at everything. She concludes, “I think that’s one of the reasons why I love the booklet – I don’t have to memorize all of this because there are lots of little facts and stats that are documented that are very beneficial and convincing about the merit of the beef industry. But what I really like is how the booklet makes it where the facts and stats are presented in such a way that they are easily interpreted and applicable...and the suggestions for how to use that information. And so these potential scenarios that they present that we really face as beef cattle communicators are spot-on for this day and age.”
Retail Food Prices Decline Slightly in Fourth Quarter 2012
Shoppers paid a bit less for food at the grocery store during the fourth quarter of 2012, with some popular fruits and veggies showing a decline in retail price. Lower retail prices for Russet potatoes, bagged salad and apples, among other foods, resulted in a slight decrease in the latest American Farm Bureau Federation Quarterly Marketbasket Survey.
The informal survey shows the total cost of 16 food items that can be used to prepare one or more meals was $50.54, down $1.36 or about 3 percent compared to the third quarter of 2012. Of the 16 items surveyed, 10 decreased and six increased in average price compared to the prior quarter.
“While prices were down from the third quarter, compared to a year ago, the marketbasket price was actually higher compared to a year ago, by about 3 percent,” said John Anderson, AFBF’s deputy chief economist. “Throughout 2012, food prices were relatively stable, thanks to very slow but steady growth in the general economy coupled with fairly stable energy prices. For this year, we expect food prices to rise by 3 to 4 percent, which is slightly higher than the average rate of inflation over the past 10 years.”
Items showing retail price decreases for the third quarter included Russet potatoes, down 39 cents to $2.62 for a 5-pound bag; bagged salad, down 35 cents to $2.59 per pound; deli ham, down 31 cents to $4.89 per pound; apples, down 26 cents to $1.60 per pound; sirloin tip roast, down 22 cents to $4.52 per pound; flour, down 20 cents to $2.37 for a 5-pound bag; chicken breasts, down 7 cents to $3.10 per pound; vegetable oil down 5 cents to $2.86 for a 32-ounce bottle; eggs, down 4 cents to $1.90 per dozen; and bacon, down 2 cents to $4.21 per pound.
These items showed modest retail price increases for the quarter: whole milk, up 18 cents to $3.73 per gallon; orange juice, up 11 cents to $3.41 per half-gallon; white bread, up 10 cents to $1.85 for a 20-ounce loaf; ground chuck, up 8 cents to $3.55 per pound; shredded cheddar cheese, up 5 cents to $4.31 per pound; and toasted oat cereal, up 3 cents to $3.03 for a 9-ounce box.
The year-to-year direction of the marketbasket survey tracks with the federal government’s Consumer Price Index (http://www.bls.gov/cpi/) report for food at home. As retail grocery prices have increased gradually over time, the share of the average food dollar that America’s farm and ranch families receive has dropped.
“Through the mid-1970s, farmers received about one-third of consumer retail food expenditures for food eaten at home and away from home, on average. Since then, that figure has decreased steadily and is now about 16 percent, according to the Agriculture Department’s revised Food Dollar Series,” Anderson said. Details about USDA’s new Food Dollar Series may be found online at http://www.ers.usda.gov/publications/err-economic-research-report/err114.aspx.
Using the “food at home and away from home” percentage across-the-board, the farmer’s share of this quarter’s $50.54 marketbasket would be $8.09.
AFBF, the nation’s largest general farm organization, has been conducting the informal quarterly marketbasket survey of retail food price trends since 1989. The mix of foods in the marketbasket was updated in 2008.
According to USDA, Americans spend just under 10 percent of their disposable annual income on food, the lowest average of any country in the world. A total of 107 shoppers in 31 states participated in the latest survey, conducted in October.
Welcome to the KTIC Agriculture Information blog!!! Check back here for the latest in ag news and information, from local events to international happenings and government reports that affect your operation. Please email with suggestions! -Chad Moyer, Farm Director, KTIC Radio
Monday, January 7, 2013
Friday, January 4, 2013
Friday January 4 Ag News
Senator Fischer Sworn-in, Given Committee Assignments
Senator Deb Fischer was officially sworn-in as a United States senator in the U.S. Capitol by Vice President Joseph Biden Thursday at a ceremony that marked the start of the 113th Congress and Fischer's six-year term.
In a statement released following the ceremony, Fischer said, "I am committed to working with my colleagues – Republicans and Democrats – to restore America's fidelity to her constitutional principles. This requires policies that limit the size of government, revitalize our ailing economy, and respect the liberties and hard-earned money of American taxpayers. The road ahead requires tough choices, and I will cast my votes solely on the merits of policies and their impact on Nebraskans and the nation."
Fischer was also assigned her Senate committees in the areas of Armed Services; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; Small Business; and Indian Affairs.
Soybean Field Day Results Shared at January Programs
The 2012 growing season marked the second year of replicated field research conducted at the Soybean Management Field Day sites.
The January Soybean Management Field Day Research Update sessions will provide the latest information and yield results gathered from on-farm field day locations.
Dates, times, locations and phone contact include:
– Jan. 29, Noon - 3 p.m., UNL Extension Office, O’Neill, 128 N. Sixth, Suite 100, 402-336-2760
– Jan. 30, Noon - 3 p.m., Dawson County Fairgrounds, Lexington, 1000 Plum Creek Parkway, 308-324-5501
– Jan. 31, Noon- 3 p.m., Wunderlich’s Catering, Columbus, 304 23rd St., Columbus (on Highway 30), 402-563-4901
– Jan. 31, 6- 9 p.m., Hruska Memorial Public Library, David City, 399 Fifth St., 402-367-7410
The field days and the research updates are sponsored by the Nebraska Soybean Board in partnership with University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in the university's Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources and are funded through checkoff dollars. The United Soybean Board, through soybean checkoff investments, is committed to making your checkoff pay off.
The August 2012 Soybean Management Field Days provided an opportunity to hear experts share their knowledge and experiences as they relate to soybean production, marketing and management. Replicated trials were conducted at the four center pivot irrigated field sites. UNL faculty will share and discuss yield results collected from the field day sites at the upcoming research update sessions.
A complimentary meal is included. To RSVP or for more information, contact the Nebraska Soybean Board at 800-852-BEAN, UNL Extension at 800-529-8030 or the respective host UNL Extension office at the number listed above.
Funding for this effort was provided by the Nebraska Soybean Board.
A Platform for Nebraska Agriculture’s Future
Governor Dave Heineman
The 25th Annual Governor’s Ag Conference will be held February 12-13 at the Younes Conference Center in Kearney. I invite all Nebraskans to attend this event and participate in discussions that focus on the future of the state's number one industry.
The theme for this year’s conference is “A Platform for Nebraska Agriculture’s Future.” The conference will challenge the farmers and ranchers, agribusiness representatives, and policy and business leaders in attendance to think about some of the key policies and practices that will drive agriculture in the coming decade.
Kicking off this year’s conference will be Dr. Roger Beachy, with the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in St. Louis, Mo. Dr. Beachy will discuss the future of biotechnology, and how new research and policy considerations may influence opportunities for Nebraska.
There has been a great deal of discussion in Nebraska and across the nation the past few years about livestock production practices and livestock welfare in general. We will have two speakers who will address this topic – Tyson Redpath and Dr. Ronnie Green.
Tyson Redpath is with The Russell Group of Arlington, Va. He will discuss the effects of state animal welfare laws on interstate commerce. Dr. Ronnie Green, vice chancellor of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, will discuss a UNL analysis of Nebraska’s position within the United States as a food producer now, and in the future.
We’ll also hear from Jerry Hagstrom, with the Hagstrom Report. He’ll provide an analysis of current activity in Washington, D.C., that could affect Nebraska agriculture, including the status of the farm bill, results of activity related to the federal budget and overall deficit, and other federal action that may influence the future for farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses.
In addition to these policy issues, we will focus on the near-term outlook for drought in the state. Nebraska Climatologist Al Dutcher will provide an overview of what to expect. This information will be valuable to our farmers and ranchers as they work to determine what actions they can take in their operations to lessen the drought’s impact.
Agriculture is an important part of our economy and as we celebrate this 25th anniversary of the Governor’s Ag Conference I look forward to hearing from our speakers and discussing the important issues that will challenge agriculture in the months, years and decades ahead.
I encourage Nebraska’s farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness leaders to attend, as well as all Nebraskans because each one of us has a stake in the future success of this industry. Registration information is available on the Nebraska Department of Agriculture website at www.agr.ne.gov or by calling 1-800-831-0550.
ISU Extension Offers Dry Manure Applicator Certification Workshops
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in cooperation with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will offer manure applicator certification workshops for dry/solid manure operators on seven different dates and locations in February. These workshops meet manure applicator certification requirements for both confinement site manure applicators and commercial manure applicators who primarily apply dry or solid manure.
“The information in this workshop will benefit not only those needing certification, but anyone using dry or solid manure as a nutrient resource,” said Angie Rieck-Hinz, coordinator of the Manure Applicator Certification Program. “This year’s program features information about how to put a value on using dry/solid manures in your cropping system.”
The workshops are free to attend and open to all. Applicators will be required to submit certification forms and fees to the Iowa DNR to meet manure applicator certification requirements.
Register for one of the workshops by calling the number listed with the selected site. Workshop locations and dates are:
- Feb. 5, Branding Iron Restaurant, Thompson. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 641-584-2261 to register.
- Feb. 6, Sioux County Extension Office, Orange City. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 712-737-4230 to register.
- Feb. 14, Community Building, Ellsworth. This meeting starts at 9 a.m. Please note new location and start time. Call 515-832-9597 to register.
- Feb. 15, Heartland Museum, Clarion. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 515-532-3453 to register.
- Feb. 18, Washington County Extension Office, Washington. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 319-653-4811 to register.
- Feb. 19, Adair County Fairgrounds, Greenfield. Please note new location. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 641-743-8412 to register.
- Feb. 28, Buena Vista County Extension Office, Storm Lake. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 712-732-5056 to register.
Northey: 23 Farm to School Chapters Across Iowa
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey said that five year old Iowa Farm to School program now has twenty-three chapters operating across the state that reached an additional 13,000 students in 2012.
"We are excited about the interest in the Farm to School program and the growth we have seen in the number of chapters and the programs those chapters are offering," Northey said. "We are pleased to see more students enjoying fresh, local foods while learning about the farmers that grow our food."
The Iowa Farm to School Program began in 2007 and is managed by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. The goals of the program are to link elementary, secondary, public and non-public schools with Iowa farmers; provide schools with fresh and minimally processed Iowa-grown food for inclusion in schools meals and snacks; and encourage children to develop healthy eating habits.
The twenty-three Farm to School Chapters have undertaken a variety of activities, such as local food procurement programs, that are personalized to meet their district's individual needs. Approved chapters are eligible to receive up to a $4,000 start-up grant to support activities that help achieve the program goals. Chapters can be found in schools of all size across the state, including small schools, such as the Pekin School District, to the larger metro schools such as those in Des Moines and Iowa City.
To help promote Iowa growers and the specialty crops they produce, the Department has also created an online Fruit and Vegetable Farm Directory. The directory is available to anyone looking for Iowa grown fruits and vegetables.
The Department has also partnered with the Iowa Department of Education to create a unique online "bid sheet" to help simplify the process schools go through to find locally grown foods. This "bid sheet" not only saves schools valuable time and energy in finding Iowa-grown foods, but also provides a new marketing opportunity for fruit and vegetable growers.
The Iowa Farm to School program offers a variety of ways for schools to get involved. Ongoing initiatives include "A is for Apple" which help make locally grown apples available in schools, and "A Garden is the Way to Grow" that support the establishment of school gardens. Other initiatives such as "Wrap Your Own-Iowa Grown" promote the purchase of locally-grown vegetables and products to create Iowa grown wraps.
In 2013 the Department is planning to continue to offer opportunities for schools to engage in farm to school through new efforts such as the "Growing Together" project, which will target FFA chapters.
"We hope other schools interested in starting a chapter will contact the Department and help us reach even more students with fresh, Iowa grown fruits and vegetables in 2013," Northey said.
Schools or communities interested in learning more about the Iowa Farm to School program can visit www.IowaAgriculture.gov and click on the "Farm to School Program" link under "Hot Topics."
Update on Mississippi River Lower Water Levels
The American Soybean Association, the waterways industry, agriculture industry partners, and other stakeholders continue to closely watch water levels on the Mississippi River and work to prevent a severe disruption in barge traffic. In response to concerns raised by industry stakeholders, the Corps of Engineers expedited issuance of contracts to begin removing rock pinnacles in the Mississippi River between St. Louis and Cairo, Ill. Due to the drought and historical low water levels on the river, the rock pinnacles have emerged, reducing the depth and width of the shipping channel used by barges. Normally, the Corps would not have started the rock removal work until January and would not have finished until late February. The expedited process is expected to result in the first phase of work being completed in 30 days and provide 1.5 feet of additional depth in the shipping channel.
The Corps also announced that it released water from reservoirs located on the Kaskaskia River south of St. Louis to support navigation over the rock pinnacles, providing up to an additional six inches of depth in this critical reach of the river.
ASA and other industry representatives attended a briefing from the White House Domestic Policy office on Dec. 20 to get an update and discuss additional options.
The Corps and the waterways operators have different views on the ability to maintain the 9-foot channel depth without the release of water from Missouri River reservoirs. The depths will depend on a combination of factors over the next few weeks, including whether it rains, if portions of the river north of St. Louis freeze and reduce water flow, if a predicted warming trend melts existing snowpack, and how fast the rock removal work proceeds.
Release of additional water from the Missouri River is strongly opposed by interests in that region, including governors, farmers, residents, and Indian tribes. The Corps has indicated that new releases from the Missouri River are not under reconsideration at this time.
ASA Welcomes Cochran, Thanks Roberts for Service as Senate Ag Ranking Member
Canton, Miss., soybean farmer and American Soybean Association (ASA) President Danny Murphy welcomed Senator and fellow Mississippian Thad Cochran to his new post as Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry today.
“A former Chairman and member of the Senate Agriculture Committee for more than three decades, Ranking Member Cochran has been a tireless advocate for American agriculture,” said Murphy. “ASA has worked closely with the Ranking Member throughout his tenure on the Committee, including during his service as Chairman from 2003 to 2005. He has been a strong leader on risk management, export, conservation, food aid, and agricultural research programs important to all farmers, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with him and his staff as Ranking Member.”
Announced on Thursday, Sen. Cochran takes over the ranking membership from Sen. Pat Roberts of Kansas, who had held the position since 2011.
“Senator Roberts has worked diligently in the interests of soybean farmers and rural America for the past five years, and ASA owes him many, many thanks,” Murphy said. “His bipartisan work as Ranking Member alongside Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow on the farm bill and countless other pieces of legislation has had a direct impact on the success and profitability not only of soybean farmers, but all of agriculture. Our farmers have seen unprecedented success under his watch, and we thank him for his dedication and look forward to working with him on the committee for many years to come.”
Aderholt to Chair House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee
The House Appropriations Committee announced that Rep. Bob Aderholt (R-Ala.) will take over as chairman of the House Agriculture Appropriations subcommittee in the new Congress. Rep. Aderholt will replace previous chair Rep. Jack Kingston (R-Ga.). The Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee is responsible for writing the annual appropriations bill that provides discretionary funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, and Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
USSEC Chairman’s Report: 2012 Year in Review
"Market development milestones, record setting purchases of soybeans, new free trade agreements, and severe drought conditions that continue across much of the country … all were defining moments for America’s soybean farmers in 2012," said U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) Chairman and ASA Executive Committee member Randy Mann. "While there were both planned and unexpected events that shaped the year for U.S. soybean farmers, some had an immediate impact while others will have lasting affects well into 2013 and beyond."
Events of significance in 2012 included:
- Agriculture leaders from China committed to purchasing 492.3 million of U.S. soybeans, setting a new volume record with an estimated value of $6.7 billion, during signing ceremonies co-hosted by USSEC in Des Moines and Los Angeles. Read more.
- The U.S. Soy Family came together with 450 Chinese soy processors, importers and end users to celebrate the accomplishments of the U.S. soy industry in China over the last 30 years. The ceremony marked the transformation of China from being a net exporter of soy, with an underdeveloped animal agriculture sector in 1982, to the world’s largest importer of soy, with a vibrant and modernizing animal agriculture sector that consumes nearly 25 percent of all soy grown in the U.S. Read more.
- U.S. grower leaders, soy family representatives and soy trading company executives traveled to Barcelona for the 2nd Annual Sustainable Trade Conference. Read more.
- USSEC hosted the first Forum for Sustainable Supply of Grains and Oilseeds for the Americas in Puerto Vallarta. The event drew a large audience with more than 80 top executives from international soy trading companies, U.S. exporters and U.S. grower leaders to discuss key issues affecting the oilseed and grain trade in North and South America. Read more.
- USSEC brought together for the first time a large group of soy protein commercial decision makers from throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and the Asian Subcontinent for a commercial conference and the launch of a new international marketing office. Read more.
"While we enter 2013 with a focus on the drought’s impact on U.S. waterways, I am confident that the tremendous growth and relationship building we experienced in 2012 will continue into the new year," said Mann.
Weekly Ethanol Production for 12/28/2012
According to EIA data, ethanol production averaged 807,000 barrels per day (b/d) – or 33.89 million gallons daily. That is down 27,000 b/d from the week before. The four week average for ethanol production stood at 822,000 b/d for an annualized rate of 12.6 billion gallons.
Stocks of ethanol stood at 20.2 million barrels. That is a decrease from last week.
Imports of ethanol showed 87,000 b/d, up from last week.
Gasoline demand for the week averaged 357.8 million gallons daily.
Expressed as a percentage of daily gasoline demand, daily ethanol production was 9.47%.
On the co-products side, ethanol producers were using 12.236 million bushels of corn to produce ethanol and 90,064 metric tons of livestock feed, 80,292 metric tons of which were distillers grains. The rest is comprised of corn gluten feed and corn gluten meal. Additionally, ethanol producers were providing 4.2 million pounds of corn oil daily.
Bledsoe named new chief operating officer of National FFA Organization
Joshua Bledsoe of Raleigh, N.C., was named chief operating officer of the National FFA Organization Friday. Bledsoe will manage major FFA operations and lead the overall execution of the 557,318-member organization’s strategic plan, reporting directly to CEO Dr. Dwight Armstrong.
Bledsoe has previously served as the state agricultural education leader and state FFA advisor for North Carolina and has accumulated 15 years of progressive leadership and management experience within agricultural education. He has been a key member on numerous national and state FFA boards and committees, and is a member of the National Association of Supervisors of Agricultural Education, among other professional organizations.
As COO, Bledsoe will lead key FFA organizational units, including education; convention and events management; partner services; information technology; marketing, communications and brand management; and merchandising and customer fulfillment.
As the North Carolina State Agricultural Education Leader, Bledsoe provided leadership and overall coordination for agricultural education within the state. He was charged with leading an 11-member state agricultural education team and ensuring professional development opportunities for teachers. Bledsoe also developed and maintained close working relationships with local, state and national agencies and organizations. A graduate of North Carolina State University, Bledsoe earned both undergraduate and master’s degrees in agricultural education.
“Josh’s experience as a state FFA leader, in the classroom and as a former FFA state president, brings the National FFA Organization a wealth of knowledge, relationships and passion for FFA and agricultural education,” said Dr. Armstrong. “With Josh on our leadership team, I’m confident we will move FFA and agricultural education forward aggressively.”
Bledsoe will relocate to Indianapolis with his family to begin the new role on Feb. 18.
Mosaic 2nd Quarter Net Up 0.8%
A slowdown in fertilizer shipments to Asia weighed on Mosaic Co.'s fiscal second-quarter earnings, although overall profit edged higher on a significant tax benefit.
The Minnesota-based fertilizer company, one of the world's largest potash and phosphate fertilizer producers, reported second-quarter operating earnings fell 30%. The decline was due mainly to lower phosphate volumes and prices, the company said.
Despite that pressure, net profit climbed 0.8% thanks to an income-tax benefit of 42 cents a share.
Even amid strong U.S. demand, the market for potash and fertilizer has been under pressure in recent months by prolonged contract negotiations with buyers in India and China, who have insisted on lower prices.
The company slashed its global potash shipment forecast to 55 million to 57 million tons for 2013, down from a prior forecast of 58 million to 60 million, and cut its phosphate shipment forecast to 63 million to 65 million tons, down 1 million. The company in November had cut its second-quarter potash and phosphates sales volume expectations, pointing to weaker demand.
Still, the company has said it believes that customer demand is simply delayed, adding that the long-term prospects for fertilizer remains positive.
In the latest period, phosphate net sales -- the company's biggest source of revenue -- were down 19% at $1.8 billion as sales volume shrank about 6.3%. Net sales in the potash segment fell 7% to $780 million as volume sank about 17%.
For the quarter ended Nov. 30, Mosaic reported a profit of $628.8 million, or $1.47 a share, up from $623.6 million, or $1.40 a share, a year earlier.
Net sales sank 16% to $2.54 billion, driven by lower phosphate and potash volumes and lower phosphate prices.
Hormel Buys Skippy Peanut Butter
Hormel Foods Corp agreed to buy Skippy, the iconic U.S. peanut butter brand, from Unilever Plc for $700 million, adding the well-known kids lunch staple to a portfolio that includes Spam canned meat.
The deal also helps Hormel, struggling with rising livestock feed costs, expand beyond meat products and gives it a bigger global presence, including in markets such as China where Skippy is the leading peanut butter brand, reports Reuters.
Hormel shares rose 6 percent to $33.82 - their highest ever - before easing a little to $33.37 in late morning trading on Thursday on the New York Stock Exchange.
Consumer goods conglomerate Unilever said in October it was selling the Skippy line, as it shifted its focus to higher-growth food brands such as Knorr and Hellmann's, and fast-growing personal care products such as Dove, Lux and Rexona.
Analysts, at the time, expected Skippy to fetch around $400 million.
Skippy, which dates back to the early 1930s, is the No.2 U.S. peanut butter brand after J.M. Smucker Co's (SJM.N) Jif. It had annual sales of $300 million in 2011 and Hormel expects it to contribute $370 million this year.
The Skippy business will add modestly to Hormel's fiscal 2013 results and add between 13 cents and 17 cents per share to 2014 earnings, the company said.
Senator Deb Fischer was officially sworn-in as a United States senator in the U.S. Capitol by Vice President Joseph Biden Thursday at a ceremony that marked the start of the 113th Congress and Fischer's six-year term.
In a statement released following the ceremony, Fischer said, "I am committed to working with my colleagues – Republicans and Democrats – to restore America's fidelity to her constitutional principles. This requires policies that limit the size of government, revitalize our ailing economy, and respect the liberties and hard-earned money of American taxpayers. The road ahead requires tough choices, and I will cast my votes solely on the merits of policies and their impact on Nebraskans and the nation."
Fischer was also assigned her Senate committees in the areas of Armed Services; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; Small Business; and Indian Affairs.
Soybean Field Day Results Shared at January Programs
The 2012 growing season marked the second year of replicated field research conducted at the Soybean Management Field Day sites.
The January Soybean Management Field Day Research Update sessions will provide the latest information and yield results gathered from on-farm field day locations.
Dates, times, locations and phone contact include:
– Jan. 29, Noon - 3 p.m., UNL Extension Office, O’Neill, 128 N. Sixth, Suite 100, 402-336-2760
– Jan. 30, Noon - 3 p.m., Dawson County Fairgrounds, Lexington, 1000 Plum Creek Parkway, 308-324-5501
– Jan. 31, Noon- 3 p.m., Wunderlich’s Catering, Columbus, 304 23rd St., Columbus (on Highway 30), 402-563-4901
– Jan. 31, 6- 9 p.m., Hruska Memorial Public Library, David City, 399 Fifth St., 402-367-7410
The field days and the research updates are sponsored by the Nebraska Soybean Board in partnership with University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension in the university's Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources and are funded through checkoff dollars. The United Soybean Board, through soybean checkoff investments, is committed to making your checkoff pay off.
The August 2012 Soybean Management Field Days provided an opportunity to hear experts share their knowledge and experiences as they relate to soybean production, marketing and management. Replicated trials were conducted at the four center pivot irrigated field sites. UNL faculty will share and discuss yield results collected from the field day sites at the upcoming research update sessions.
A complimentary meal is included. To RSVP or for more information, contact the Nebraska Soybean Board at 800-852-BEAN, UNL Extension at 800-529-8030 or the respective host UNL Extension office at the number listed above.
Funding for this effort was provided by the Nebraska Soybean Board.
A Platform for Nebraska Agriculture’s Future
Governor Dave Heineman
The 25th Annual Governor’s Ag Conference will be held February 12-13 at the Younes Conference Center in Kearney. I invite all Nebraskans to attend this event and participate in discussions that focus on the future of the state's number one industry.
The theme for this year’s conference is “A Platform for Nebraska Agriculture’s Future.” The conference will challenge the farmers and ranchers, agribusiness representatives, and policy and business leaders in attendance to think about some of the key policies and practices that will drive agriculture in the coming decade.
Kicking off this year’s conference will be Dr. Roger Beachy, with the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center in St. Louis, Mo. Dr. Beachy will discuss the future of biotechnology, and how new research and policy considerations may influence opportunities for Nebraska.
There has been a great deal of discussion in Nebraska and across the nation the past few years about livestock production practices and livestock welfare in general. We will have two speakers who will address this topic – Tyson Redpath and Dr. Ronnie Green.
Tyson Redpath is with The Russell Group of Arlington, Va. He will discuss the effects of state animal welfare laws on interstate commerce. Dr. Ronnie Green, vice chancellor of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, will discuss a UNL analysis of Nebraska’s position within the United States as a food producer now, and in the future.
We’ll also hear from Jerry Hagstrom, with the Hagstrom Report. He’ll provide an analysis of current activity in Washington, D.C., that could affect Nebraska agriculture, including the status of the farm bill, results of activity related to the federal budget and overall deficit, and other federal action that may influence the future for farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses.
In addition to these policy issues, we will focus on the near-term outlook for drought in the state. Nebraska Climatologist Al Dutcher will provide an overview of what to expect. This information will be valuable to our farmers and ranchers as they work to determine what actions they can take in their operations to lessen the drought’s impact.
Agriculture is an important part of our economy and as we celebrate this 25th anniversary of the Governor’s Ag Conference I look forward to hearing from our speakers and discussing the important issues that will challenge agriculture in the months, years and decades ahead.
I encourage Nebraska’s farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness leaders to attend, as well as all Nebraskans because each one of us has a stake in the future success of this industry. Registration information is available on the Nebraska Department of Agriculture website at www.agr.ne.gov or by calling 1-800-831-0550.
ISU Extension Offers Dry Manure Applicator Certification Workshops
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in cooperation with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will offer manure applicator certification workshops for dry/solid manure operators on seven different dates and locations in February. These workshops meet manure applicator certification requirements for both confinement site manure applicators and commercial manure applicators who primarily apply dry or solid manure.
“The information in this workshop will benefit not only those needing certification, but anyone using dry or solid manure as a nutrient resource,” said Angie Rieck-Hinz, coordinator of the Manure Applicator Certification Program. “This year’s program features information about how to put a value on using dry/solid manures in your cropping system.”
The workshops are free to attend and open to all. Applicators will be required to submit certification forms and fees to the Iowa DNR to meet manure applicator certification requirements.
Register for one of the workshops by calling the number listed with the selected site. Workshop locations and dates are:
- Feb. 5, Branding Iron Restaurant, Thompson. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 641-584-2261 to register.
- Feb. 6, Sioux County Extension Office, Orange City. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 712-737-4230 to register.
- Feb. 14, Community Building, Ellsworth. This meeting starts at 9 a.m. Please note new location and start time. Call 515-832-9597 to register.
- Feb. 15, Heartland Museum, Clarion. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 515-532-3453 to register.
- Feb. 18, Washington County Extension Office, Washington. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 319-653-4811 to register.
- Feb. 19, Adair County Fairgrounds, Greenfield. Please note new location. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 641-743-8412 to register.
- Feb. 28, Buena Vista County Extension Office, Storm Lake. This meeting starts at 1 p.m. Call 712-732-5056 to register.
Northey: 23 Farm to School Chapters Across Iowa
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey said that five year old Iowa Farm to School program now has twenty-three chapters operating across the state that reached an additional 13,000 students in 2012.
"We are excited about the interest in the Farm to School program and the growth we have seen in the number of chapters and the programs those chapters are offering," Northey said. "We are pleased to see more students enjoying fresh, local foods while learning about the farmers that grow our food."
The Iowa Farm to School Program began in 2007 and is managed by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. The goals of the program are to link elementary, secondary, public and non-public schools with Iowa farmers; provide schools with fresh and minimally processed Iowa-grown food for inclusion in schools meals and snacks; and encourage children to develop healthy eating habits.
The twenty-three Farm to School Chapters have undertaken a variety of activities, such as local food procurement programs, that are personalized to meet their district's individual needs. Approved chapters are eligible to receive up to a $4,000 start-up grant to support activities that help achieve the program goals. Chapters can be found in schools of all size across the state, including small schools, such as the Pekin School District, to the larger metro schools such as those in Des Moines and Iowa City.
To help promote Iowa growers and the specialty crops they produce, the Department has also created an online Fruit and Vegetable Farm Directory. The directory is available to anyone looking for Iowa grown fruits and vegetables.
The Department has also partnered with the Iowa Department of Education to create a unique online "bid sheet" to help simplify the process schools go through to find locally grown foods. This "bid sheet" not only saves schools valuable time and energy in finding Iowa-grown foods, but also provides a new marketing opportunity for fruit and vegetable growers.
The Iowa Farm to School program offers a variety of ways for schools to get involved. Ongoing initiatives include "A is for Apple" which help make locally grown apples available in schools, and "A Garden is the Way to Grow" that support the establishment of school gardens. Other initiatives such as "Wrap Your Own-Iowa Grown" promote the purchase of locally-grown vegetables and products to create Iowa grown wraps.
In 2013 the Department is planning to continue to offer opportunities for schools to engage in farm to school through new efforts such as the "Growing Together" project, which will target FFA chapters.
"We hope other schools interested in starting a chapter will contact the Department and help us reach even more students with fresh, Iowa grown fruits and vegetables in 2013," Northey said.
Schools or communities interested in learning more about the Iowa Farm to School program can visit www.IowaAgriculture.gov and click on the "Farm to School Program" link under "Hot Topics."
Update on Mississippi River Lower Water Levels
The American Soybean Association, the waterways industry, agriculture industry partners, and other stakeholders continue to closely watch water levels on the Mississippi River and work to prevent a severe disruption in barge traffic. In response to concerns raised by industry stakeholders, the Corps of Engineers expedited issuance of contracts to begin removing rock pinnacles in the Mississippi River between St. Louis and Cairo, Ill. Due to the drought and historical low water levels on the river, the rock pinnacles have emerged, reducing the depth and width of the shipping channel used by barges. Normally, the Corps would not have started the rock removal work until January and would not have finished until late February. The expedited process is expected to result in the first phase of work being completed in 30 days and provide 1.5 feet of additional depth in the shipping channel.
The Corps also announced that it released water from reservoirs located on the Kaskaskia River south of St. Louis to support navigation over the rock pinnacles, providing up to an additional six inches of depth in this critical reach of the river.
ASA and other industry representatives attended a briefing from the White House Domestic Policy office on Dec. 20 to get an update and discuss additional options.
The Corps and the waterways operators have different views on the ability to maintain the 9-foot channel depth without the release of water from Missouri River reservoirs. The depths will depend on a combination of factors over the next few weeks, including whether it rains, if portions of the river north of St. Louis freeze and reduce water flow, if a predicted warming trend melts existing snowpack, and how fast the rock removal work proceeds.
Release of additional water from the Missouri River is strongly opposed by interests in that region, including governors, farmers, residents, and Indian tribes. The Corps has indicated that new releases from the Missouri River are not under reconsideration at this time.
ASA Welcomes Cochran, Thanks Roberts for Service as Senate Ag Ranking Member
Canton, Miss., soybean farmer and American Soybean Association (ASA) President Danny Murphy welcomed Senator and fellow Mississippian Thad Cochran to his new post as Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry today.
“A former Chairman and member of the Senate Agriculture Committee for more than three decades, Ranking Member Cochran has been a tireless advocate for American agriculture,” said Murphy. “ASA has worked closely with the Ranking Member throughout his tenure on the Committee, including during his service as Chairman from 2003 to 2005. He has been a strong leader on risk management, export, conservation, food aid, and agricultural research programs important to all farmers, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with him and his staff as Ranking Member.”
Announced on Thursday, Sen. Cochran takes over the ranking membership from Sen. Pat Roberts of Kansas, who had held the position since 2011.
“Senator Roberts has worked diligently in the interests of soybean farmers and rural America for the past five years, and ASA owes him many, many thanks,” Murphy said. “His bipartisan work as Ranking Member alongside Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow on the farm bill and countless other pieces of legislation has had a direct impact on the success and profitability not only of soybean farmers, but all of agriculture. Our farmers have seen unprecedented success under his watch, and we thank him for his dedication and look forward to working with him on the committee for many years to come.”
Aderholt to Chair House Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee
The House Appropriations Committee announced that Rep. Bob Aderholt (R-Ala.) will take over as chairman of the House Agriculture Appropriations subcommittee in the new Congress. Rep. Aderholt will replace previous chair Rep. Jack Kingston (R-Ga.). The Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee is responsible for writing the annual appropriations bill that provides discretionary funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, and Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
USSEC Chairman’s Report: 2012 Year in Review
"Market development milestones, record setting purchases of soybeans, new free trade agreements, and severe drought conditions that continue across much of the country … all were defining moments for America’s soybean farmers in 2012," said U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) Chairman and ASA Executive Committee member Randy Mann. "While there were both planned and unexpected events that shaped the year for U.S. soybean farmers, some had an immediate impact while others will have lasting affects well into 2013 and beyond."
Events of significance in 2012 included:
- Agriculture leaders from China committed to purchasing 492.3 million of U.S. soybeans, setting a new volume record with an estimated value of $6.7 billion, during signing ceremonies co-hosted by USSEC in Des Moines and Los Angeles. Read more.
- The U.S. Soy Family came together with 450 Chinese soy processors, importers and end users to celebrate the accomplishments of the U.S. soy industry in China over the last 30 years. The ceremony marked the transformation of China from being a net exporter of soy, with an underdeveloped animal agriculture sector in 1982, to the world’s largest importer of soy, with a vibrant and modernizing animal agriculture sector that consumes nearly 25 percent of all soy grown in the U.S. Read more.
- U.S. grower leaders, soy family representatives and soy trading company executives traveled to Barcelona for the 2nd Annual Sustainable Trade Conference. Read more.
- USSEC hosted the first Forum for Sustainable Supply of Grains and Oilseeds for the Americas in Puerto Vallarta. The event drew a large audience with more than 80 top executives from international soy trading companies, U.S. exporters and U.S. grower leaders to discuss key issues affecting the oilseed and grain trade in North and South America. Read more.
- USSEC brought together for the first time a large group of soy protein commercial decision makers from throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and the Asian Subcontinent for a commercial conference and the launch of a new international marketing office. Read more.
"While we enter 2013 with a focus on the drought’s impact on U.S. waterways, I am confident that the tremendous growth and relationship building we experienced in 2012 will continue into the new year," said Mann.
Weekly Ethanol Production for 12/28/2012
According to EIA data, ethanol production averaged 807,000 barrels per day (b/d) – or 33.89 million gallons daily. That is down 27,000 b/d from the week before. The four week average for ethanol production stood at 822,000 b/d for an annualized rate of 12.6 billion gallons.
Stocks of ethanol stood at 20.2 million barrels. That is a decrease from last week.
Imports of ethanol showed 87,000 b/d, up from last week.
Gasoline demand for the week averaged 357.8 million gallons daily.
Expressed as a percentage of daily gasoline demand, daily ethanol production was 9.47%.
On the co-products side, ethanol producers were using 12.236 million bushels of corn to produce ethanol and 90,064 metric tons of livestock feed, 80,292 metric tons of which were distillers grains. The rest is comprised of corn gluten feed and corn gluten meal. Additionally, ethanol producers were providing 4.2 million pounds of corn oil daily.
Bledsoe named new chief operating officer of National FFA Organization
Joshua Bledsoe of Raleigh, N.C., was named chief operating officer of the National FFA Organization Friday. Bledsoe will manage major FFA operations and lead the overall execution of the 557,318-member organization’s strategic plan, reporting directly to CEO Dr. Dwight Armstrong.
Bledsoe has previously served as the state agricultural education leader and state FFA advisor for North Carolina and has accumulated 15 years of progressive leadership and management experience within agricultural education. He has been a key member on numerous national and state FFA boards and committees, and is a member of the National Association of Supervisors of Agricultural Education, among other professional organizations.
As COO, Bledsoe will lead key FFA organizational units, including education; convention and events management; partner services; information technology; marketing, communications and brand management; and merchandising and customer fulfillment.
As the North Carolina State Agricultural Education Leader, Bledsoe provided leadership and overall coordination for agricultural education within the state. He was charged with leading an 11-member state agricultural education team and ensuring professional development opportunities for teachers. Bledsoe also developed and maintained close working relationships with local, state and national agencies and organizations. A graduate of North Carolina State University, Bledsoe earned both undergraduate and master’s degrees in agricultural education.
“Josh’s experience as a state FFA leader, in the classroom and as a former FFA state president, brings the National FFA Organization a wealth of knowledge, relationships and passion for FFA and agricultural education,” said Dr. Armstrong. “With Josh on our leadership team, I’m confident we will move FFA and agricultural education forward aggressively.”
Bledsoe will relocate to Indianapolis with his family to begin the new role on Feb. 18.
Mosaic 2nd Quarter Net Up 0.8%
A slowdown in fertilizer shipments to Asia weighed on Mosaic Co.'s fiscal second-quarter earnings, although overall profit edged higher on a significant tax benefit.
The Minnesota-based fertilizer company, one of the world's largest potash and phosphate fertilizer producers, reported second-quarter operating earnings fell 30%. The decline was due mainly to lower phosphate volumes and prices, the company said.
Despite that pressure, net profit climbed 0.8% thanks to an income-tax benefit of 42 cents a share.
Even amid strong U.S. demand, the market for potash and fertilizer has been under pressure in recent months by prolonged contract negotiations with buyers in India and China, who have insisted on lower prices.
The company slashed its global potash shipment forecast to 55 million to 57 million tons for 2013, down from a prior forecast of 58 million to 60 million, and cut its phosphate shipment forecast to 63 million to 65 million tons, down 1 million. The company in November had cut its second-quarter potash and phosphates sales volume expectations, pointing to weaker demand.
Still, the company has said it believes that customer demand is simply delayed, adding that the long-term prospects for fertilizer remains positive.
In the latest period, phosphate net sales -- the company's biggest source of revenue -- were down 19% at $1.8 billion as sales volume shrank about 6.3%. Net sales in the potash segment fell 7% to $780 million as volume sank about 17%.
For the quarter ended Nov. 30, Mosaic reported a profit of $628.8 million, or $1.47 a share, up from $623.6 million, or $1.40 a share, a year earlier.
Net sales sank 16% to $2.54 billion, driven by lower phosphate and potash volumes and lower phosphate prices.
Hormel Buys Skippy Peanut Butter
Hormel Foods Corp agreed to buy Skippy, the iconic U.S. peanut butter brand, from Unilever Plc for $700 million, adding the well-known kids lunch staple to a portfolio that includes Spam canned meat.
The deal also helps Hormel, struggling with rising livestock feed costs, expand beyond meat products and gives it a bigger global presence, including in markets such as China where Skippy is the leading peanut butter brand, reports Reuters.
Hormel shares rose 6 percent to $33.82 - their highest ever - before easing a little to $33.37 in late morning trading on Thursday on the New York Stock Exchange.
Consumer goods conglomerate Unilever said in October it was selling the Skippy line, as it shifted its focus to higher-growth food brands such as Knorr and Hellmann's, and fast-growing personal care products such as Dove, Lux and Rexona.
Analysts, at the time, expected Skippy to fetch around $400 million.
Skippy, which dates back to the early 1930s, is the No.2 U.S. peanut butter brand after J.M. Smucker Co's (SJM.N) Jif. It had annual sales of $300 million in 2011 and Hormel expects it to contribute $370 million this year.
The Skippy business will add modestly to Hormel's fiscal 2013 results and add between 13 cents and 17 cents per share to 2014 earnings, the company said.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Thursday January 3 Ag News
Johanns Announces Committee Assignments for 113th Congress
U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.) today announced his committee assignments for the 113th Congress.
“I’m honored to serve on these committees, not only for their importance to our nation but also to Nebraska,” Johanns said. “Reining in spending, seeing a reform-minded farm bill signed into law and providing our military and veterans with the services they need have been some of my top priorities since being elected to the Senate. My committee assignments for the next Congress will allow me to continue those efforts, as well as influence other important legislation moving through the Senate.”
Below is a list of Johanns’ committee assignments:
· Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry
· Appropriations
· Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs
· Veterans Affairs
Night Time Feeding Influences Time of Calving
Steve Tonn, UNL Extension Educator, Washington County
Calving season has started for some and will begin earnest in February for most Washington County cow herds. That means many long days and short nights checking cows to see if there are any cows having problems delivering a calf. It is recommended that mature cows be checked every four hours and first calf heifer every 2 hours. It is generally accepted that adequate supervision at calving has a significant impact on reducing calf mortality. Adequate supervision has been of increasing importance with the use of larger beef breeds and cattle with larger birth weights. On most cow herd operations, supervision of the first calf heifers will be best accomplished in daylight hours and the poorest observation takes place in the middle of the night.
Getting more cows to calve during the daytime would make calving season a lot easier and less stressful for producers. The easiest and most practical method of inhibiting nighttime calving at present is by feeding cows at night; the physiological mechanism is unknown, but some hormonal effect may be involved. Although some cows will still give birth in the middle of the night, the percentage of cows calving in the daylight will increase if the feeding activity is done late in the day. Research has shown that cows fed at, or after dusk will have a 2 or 3 to 1 ratio of calves born in daylight versus those born at night. Whether cows were started on the night feeding the week before calving started in the herd or 2 to 3 weeks earlier made no apparent difference in calving time.
What about the situation where large round bales of hay are being fed to the cows and heifers? If the cows have unrestricted access to the hay around the clock, then the best method of influencing the time of calving is via the time of day that the supplement is being fed. At Oklahoma State University, the switch from supplement feeding in daytime to late afternoon/early evening feeding encouraged 72% of the cows to calve between 6 AM and 6 PM. These cows had 24/7 access to large round bales of grass hay. Before the change was made, when supplement was fed during the morning hours, the ratio of night time versus day time calving was nearly even, with half of the calves born at night and half during the day.
Another idea would be to control access to the large round bales. The hay is fed within a small enclosed pasture or lot near a larger pasture where the cows graze during the day. In the evening, the gate to the area where the hay is placed is opened and the cows are allowed to enter and consume hay during the night. The next morning, they are moved back to the daytime pasture to graze until the following evening. In this manner, the nighttime feeding is accomplished with hay or silage only.
Whatever method fits your operation should be utilized. The advantage of heifers/cows being observed with daylight during calving is obvious. Also during winter months, baby calves born in the warmer part of the day with radiant heat from the sun to reduce cold stress, have a better chance for early colostrum consumption and therefore survival.
UNL Extension Mid-Plains BEEF Session Jan. 31 Focuses on Drought
University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension's Mid-Plains BEEF Educational Series will conduct a special Jan. 31 session on pasture and forage drought management tips for cow herds at the UNL Agricultural Research and Development Center near Mead.
The 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. session will draw on the expertise of Rick Rasby, UNL extension beef specialist, Bruce Anderson, UNL extension forage specialist, and Monte Vandeveer, Lindsay Chichester, Jessica Jones, Darci Pesek, Monte Stauffer and Steve Tonn, UNL extension educators, to share their farm management and beef cattle expertise with participants.
The program is designed for producers, veterinarians or others involved in the beef industry.
This special session will deal with how to manage pastures and forages through the drought, management options for cow herds in dealing with the drought and the use of pasture insurance as a risk management tool.
Participants will learn more about managing drought stressed cool and warm season grass pastures, pasture weed management strategies, fertilizing pastures, pasture insurance as a risk management tool, culling cows, early weaning calves and pregnancy checking cows.
Time will also be allotted to visit with the speakers on an individual or small group basis.
Registration of $60 which covers educational materials, noon meal and breaks is requested by Jan. 24
The Mid-Plains BEEF Educational Series is an effort by a team of southeastern Nebraska Extension educators. To register or obtain more information, contact them at: Lindsay Chichester, Richardson County, 402-245-4324; Jessica Jones, Johnson County, 402-335-3669; Darci Pesek, Nuckolls/Thayer counties, 402-768-7212 or 402-225-2381; Monte Stauffer, Douglas/Sarpy counties, 402-444-7804; or Steve Tonn, Washington County, 402-426-9455.
Farmers and Ranchers Cow/Calf College at USMARC Jan. 22
The annual Farmers and Ranchers Cow/Calf College "Partners in Progress – Beef Seminar" will be Jan. 22 at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center and Great Plains Veterinary Education Center near Clay Center.
Registration will be from 9-9:50 a.m. with coffee and donuts. The program will start at 9:50 a.m. and conclude around 3:45 p.m.
This year's theme will center on recovering from the 2012 drought and preparing for the potential of a 2013 drought.
This program is sponsored by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension's Farmers and Ranchers College and will feature several outstanding speakers discussing issues and management strategies that can affect the profitability of all beef producers, said Dewey Lienemann, UNL Extension educator in Webster County.
"The seminar is packed with experts in climate, forages, animal nutrition and reproduction and will provide information that should help in planning for the upcoming year," Lienemann said.
There is no cost for the event and the public is invited. Preregistration is required by Jan. 18 to ensure a seat, lunch and proceedings for the day.
The Cow/Calf College will kick off with a 9:50 a.m. welcome by John Pollak, director of the USMARC. He also will give a short overview of research at the center.
Other morning speakers and their presentations include: Allan Vyhnalek, UNL Extension educator, "Hay, Stalks, & Pastures: Costs & Considerations for 2013," which will give information on values, rental rates and considerations for coming out of a drought and possibly going into another, and Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension forage specialist, who will give producers information on "Forage Planning for the Possible 2013 Drought." This could be critical as beef producers faced a shortage of pasture and now hay and other forages in 2012 and prepare for 2013.
Lunch will be provided and will be handled with a rotation system during two noon sessions featuring Aaron Stalker, UNL beef range systems specialist, who will provide two concurrent presentations on "Corn Stalk Grazing: Values to Cattle Producers and Corn Farmers," and a presentation on the "New UNL Beef Body Condition Scoring App."
Rick Funston, UNL beef reproductive physiology specialist, will start off the afternoon. In light of current feed costs, many producers are looking at options and strategies for replacement heifer development in the months ahead. Participants can learn more about his research during "Cost Effective Replacement Heifer Development."
Al Dutcher, UNL state climatologist, will give his take on the "Potential for 2013 Drought: Weather Update." There is no doubt that most producers and especially beef producers are worried about what may be ahead for climate that will affect grass and forage production. This session will inform producers about upcoming weather conditions.
Concluding the college, all presenters will join on stage to pull everything together, give their final thoughts and considerations and then participate in a coffee-shop style panel discussion during which cattlemen can ask questions and get answers on topic questions that came to them during the day's sessions.
A chance for door prizes will be awarded to those who stay for the entire event.
For more information or to register, contact the UNL Extension Office at 621 N. Cedar, Red Cloud, Neb. 68930, call 402-746-3417 or email Lienemann at dlienemann2@unl.edu.
Additional information may be found at the Webster County UNL Extension website at http://www.webster.unl.edu.
Comment Period Extended on Iowa Nutrient Strategy
The public comment period for the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy has been extended by two weeks until Jan. 18, 2013. The original 45-day comment period was scheduled to close on Jan. 4.
It has been the goal all along to have broad public input on the strategy and we hope the two additional weeks will allow more Iowans to review the strategy and provide comment. We have had some requests for an extension of the comment period and hope those interested will take advantage of the additional time to participate in the comment period, said DNR Director Chuck Gipp and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey.
The Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy is a science and technology-based approach to assess and reduce nutrients delivered to Iowa waterways and the Gulf of Mexico. The strategy outlines voluntary efforts to reduce nutrients in surface water from both point sources, such as wastewater treatment plants and industrial facilities, and nonpoint sources, including farm fields and urban areas, in a scientific, reasonable and cost effective manner.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) worked with Iowa State University over a two-year period to develop the strategy. The resulting strategy is the first time such a comprehensive and integrated approach addressing both point and nonpoint sources of nutrients has been completed.
The Iowa strategy has been developed in response to the 2008 Gulf Hypoxia Action Plan that calls for the 12 states along the Mississippi River to develop strategies to reduce nutrient loading to the Gulf of Mexico. The Iowa strategy follows the recommended framework provided by EPA in 2011 and is only the second state to complete a statewide nutrient reduction strategy.
The full report, additional information and place for comments can be found at www.nutrientstrategy.iastate.edu.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa DNR and Iowa State University have hosted two public meetings and hosted a webinar to educate Iowans about the strategy and answer questions. The webinar has been archived and can be viewed on the nutrient strategy website at www.nutrientstrategy.iastate.edu. In addition, presentations will be made to farmers, certified crop advisors and others in the agriculture industry as part of ISU Extension and Outreach’s ongoing educational meetings.
As of Jan. 2, more than 350 comments had been received on the plan.
Biodiesel champion Sen. Byron Dorgan to give keynote address at National Biodiesel Conference & Expo
Senator Byron Dorgan may have retired from public office, but his passion for domestically produced renewable energy is stronger than ever. He's also well-positioned to continue shaping energy policy.
The National Biodiesel Board announced today that the former U.S. Senator, widely recognized as a national leader and expert in energy and agriculture issues, will give the keynote address on Wednesday, Feb. 6 at the National Biodiesel Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.
First elected to Congress in 1980, Dorgan represented his home state of North Dakota for 12 years in the U.S. House followed by 18 years in the U.S. Senate. After retiring, he became a senior fellow at the Bipartisan Policy Center, where he recently joined former Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott to launch and chair the center's Strategic Energy Policy Initiative.
As a House member and in the Senate, Dorgan was a champion for biodiesel and other renewable fuels. He repeatedly sponsored legislation to create the Renewable Fuel Standard and strongly advocated the biodiesel tax incentive. He also was an advocate for renewable energy programs in the Farm Bill.
"During his career in public office, Senator Dorgan consistently championed renewable energy and energy independence, promoted the economic needs of rural America, and fought for sound economic policies," said Joe Jobe, CEO of the National Biodiesel Board. "Senator Dorgan continues to be a thought leader in Washington D.C. and is highly engaged in energy policy development. We're thrilled that he will join us to share his insights as we lay a course for America's Advanced Biofuel for the next 20 years."
Recently Dorgan has been discussed in the media and elsewhere as under consideration to become Energy Secretary in President Obama's second term should current Secretary Steven Chu step down.
Dorgan was a senior senator on the Appropriations, Energy, and Commerce Committees in the Senate. He currently serves as serves as co-chairman of the government relations practice Arent Fox.
USDA Dairy Products Production November 2012 Highlights
Total cheese output (excluding cottage cheese) was 912 million pounds, 1.8 percent above November 2011 but 1.8 percent below October 2012. Italian type cheese production totaled 383 million pounds, 0.5 percent below November 2011 and 1.2 percent below October 2012. American type cheese production totaled 362 million pounds, 3.8 percent above November 2011 but 2.1 percent below October 2012. Butter production was 144 million pounds, 6.0 percent below November 2011 and 0.8 percent below October 2012.
Dry milk powders (comparisons with November 2011)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 116 million pounds, down 3.8 percent.
Skim milk powders - 44.7 million pounds, up 13.0 percent.
Whey products (comparisons with November 2011)
Dry whey, total - 71.5 million pounds, down 7.8 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 80.5 million pounds, down 1.5 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 36.5 million pounds, down 0.8 percent.
Frozen products (comparisons with November 2011)
Ice cream, regular (hard) - 54.0 million gallons, up 1.9 percent.
Ice cream, lowfat (total) - 25.0 million gallons, down 11.0 percent.
Sherbet (hard) - 2.57 million gallons, down 1.8 percent.
Frozen yogurt (total) - 3.45 million gallons, down 11.3 percent.
Tax Relief Act Is a Disappointment for Dairy Farmers
John Wilson, DFA Senior Vice President
“After years of work to bring dairy policy reform to fruition, we are extremely disappointed that Congress has turned its back on dairy farmers. Although passing the American Tax Relief Act of 2012 averted a ‘dairy cliff’ that would have devastated the industry, we are increasingly frustrated that legislators have again stalled the Dairy Security Act.
“In a vote earlier last year, the Senate gave a nod to the dairy policy reform outlined in the Dairy Security Act. The House Agriculture Committee did the same. But with the clock ticking and pressure on, Congress was never even given the opportunity to vote the Dairy Security Act into law.
“In a business climate that is so uncertain, inaction on real reform as part of a greater Farm Bill makes it more difficult for farmers to plan, operate and make business decisions in a competitive marketplace. Our nation’s dairy producers deserve better.
“Current domestic dairy programs, as we have witnessed during the last few years, do not provide farmers with the tools they need to manage risk and weather the extremely volatile global marketplace. The Dairy Security Act, developed by dairy farmers for dairy farmers, is the best alternative to current programs and is supported by farmers across the nation.
“During the 113th Congress, we will continue to work with the agricultural leaders in Washington, D.C., to push forward the meaningful reform that the Dairy Security Act brings. The continued support of Representatives Lucas and Peterson and Senators Stabenow and Roberts will be more important than ever as we continue the effort to bring long overdue change to the dairy industry.”
Argentina Corn Planting Jumps Ahead
Clear skies over Argentina's key corn growing areas in Buenos Aires and Cordoba provinces are expected to allow farmers to make a big push toward wrapping up corn planting within the 10 days left in the prime planting window, the Buenos Aries Cereals Exchange said in its weekly crop report Thursday.
"The weather is expected to be favorable in the areas affected by excess rainfall [and] the remaining area is expected to be planted in time," the exchange said.
Corn planting is 82% done, with the pace just 1.5 percentage points behind that of a year earlier.
The exchange held its commercial corn area forecast at 3.4 million hectares, down 12% on the year. The crop is in very good shape after being soaked by heavy rainfall so far this season, the exchange said.
Argentina, the world's no. 2 corn exporter behind the U.S., is expecting a corn crop of between 26 million and 27 million metric tons this season, topping the previous corn record of 24 million tons during the 2010-11 season, according to the corn chamber Maizar, and up sharply from the 21 million tons harvested during the drought-ravaged 2011-12 season.
Meanwhile, Argentina's soybean planting is 85% done with conditions also very good except for some spotty fields with wind or hail damage, according to the exchange. The exchange held its forecast for 2012-13 soybean area at 19.7 million hectares.
High prices and wet weather are expected to bring a bumper soy crop this season.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture expects Argentina to grow a record 55 million metric tons of soybeans, up from the previous record of 52.7 million tons set during the 2009-10 season.
Mosaic’s Nutrient Removal App Recognized
The Mosaic Company’s Nutrient Removal App was selected by AgProfessional editors as one of the 10 best and most innovative products introduced by the industry in 2012.
Since its debut in January 2012, the Nutrient Removal App has been downloaded over 6,500 times by farmers and retailers. Utilizing many years of agronomic research, the app creates a new way to access the data in the Mosaic “Balanced Crop Nutrition” guide at the touch of a button. Results can be stored as a profile, and emailed to advisors to aid decision-making in input planning.
To support the need for farmers to boost yields to feed a growing world population, the app provides nutrient removal data by yield for 36 different crops, informing farmers so they can make better input decisions and push past today’s yield barriers.
“When crop yields increase, if fertilizer is not increased to meet the crop’s nutrient needs, plants turn to the soil’s nutrient bank,” says Kyle Freeman, Ph.D., manager of new-product development at The Mosaic Company. “Keeping that soil nutrient bank healthy is crucial for not just the crop in the ground, but the crops to come in following years.”
The International Plant Nutrition Institute notes that up to 60 percent of yield can be attributed to the 4R’s: using the right source of fertilizer, at the right rate, in the right place and at the right time. Staying ahead of the curve on soil fertility can make the difference between a good growing year and a great growing year for farmers, and the Nutrient Removal App helps farmers stay on track.
AgProfessional editors chose the top 10 new products of 2012 based on their innovative support for the industry and how useful they are for agricultural retailers, crop consultants and farm managers in their businesses and as they advise clients.
“The data that the Nutrient Removal App provides can be the foundation and the starting point for fertilizer recommendations,” says Dr. Freeman. “Mosaic is also studying the interaction between macro and micronuturients as they support a high-yield cropping system.”
The Nutrient Removal App is free and available on Apple and Android operating platforms. Once downloaded, the app can be used without Internet service.
U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.) today announced his committee assignments for the 113th Congress.
“I’m honored to serve on these committees, not only for their importance to our nation but also to Nebraska,” Johanns said. “Reining in spending, seeing a reform-minded farm bill signed into law and providing our military and veterans with the services they need have been some of my top priorities since being elected to the Senate. My committee assignments for the next Congress will allow me to continue those efforts, as well as influence other important legislation moving through the Senate.”
Below is a list of Johanns’ committee assignments:
· Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry
· Appropriations
· Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs
· Veterans Affairs
Night Time Feeding Influences Time of Calving
Steve Tonn, UNL Extension Educator, Washington County
Calving season has started for some and will begin earnest in February for most Washington County cow herds. That means many long days and short nights checking cows to see if there are any cows having problems delivering a calf. It is recommended that mature cows be checked every four hours and first calf heifer every 2 hours. It is generally accepted that adequate supervision at calving has a significant impact on reducing calf mortality. Adequate supervision has been of increasing importance with the use of larger beef breeds and cattle with larger birth weights. On most cow herd operations, supervision of the first calf heifers will be best accomplished in daylight hours and the poorest observation takes place in the middle of the night.
Getting more cows to calve during the daytime would make calving season a lot easier and less stressful for producers. The easiest and most practical method of inhibiting nighttime calving at present is by feeding cows at night; the physiological mechanism is unknown, but some hormonal effect may be involved. Although some cows will still give birth in the middle of the night, the percentage of cows calving in the daylight will increase if the feeding activity is done late in the day. Research has shown that cows fed at, or after dusk will have a 2 or 3 to 1 ratio of calves born in daylight versus those born at night. Whether cows were started on the night feeding the week before calving started in the herd or 2 to 3 weeks earlier made no apparent difference in calving time.
What about the situation where large round bales of hay are being fed to the cows and heifers? If the cows have unrestricted access to the hay around the clock, then the best method of influencing the time of calving is via the time of day that the supplement is being fed. At Oklahoma State University, the switch from supplement feeding in daytime to late afternoon/early evening feeding encouraged 72% of the cows to calve between 6 AM and 6 PM. These cows had 24/7 access to large round bales of grass hay. Before the change was made, when supplement was fed during the morning hours, the ratio of night time versus day time calving was nearly even, with half of the calves born at night and half during the day.
Another idea would be to control access to the large round bales. The hay is fed within a small enclosed pasture or lot near a larger pasture where the cows graze during the day. In the evening, the gate to the area where the hay is placed is opened and the cows are allowed to enter and consume hay during the night. The next morning, they are moved back to the daytime pasture to graze until the following evening. In this manner, the nighttime feeding is accomplished with hay or silage only.
Whatever method fits your operation should be utilized. The advantage of heifers/cows being observed with daylight during calving is obvious. Also during winter months, baby calves born in the warmer part of the day with radiant heat from the sun to reduce cold stress, have a better chance for early colostrum consumption and therefore survival.
UNL Extension Mid-Plains BEEF Session Jan. 31 Focuses on Drought
University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension's Mid-Plains BEEF Educational Series will conduct a special Jan. 31 session on pasture and forage drought management tips for cow herds at the UNL Agricultural Research and Development Center near Mead.
The 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. session will draw on the expertise of Rick Rasby, UNL extension beef specialist, Bruce Anderson, UNL extension forage specialist, and Monte Vandeveer, Lindsay Chichester, Jessica Jones, Darci Pesek, Monte Stauffer and Steve Tonn, UNL extension educators, to share their farm management and beef cattle expertise with participants.
The program is designed for producers, veterinarians or others involved in the beef industry.
This special session will deal with how to manage pastures and forages through the drought, management options for cow herds in dealing with the drought and the use of pasture insurance as a risk management tool.
Participants will learn more about managing drought stressed cool and warm season grass pastures, pasture weed management strategies, fertilizing pastures, pasture insurance as a risk management tool, culling cows, early weaning calves and pregnancy checking cows.
Time will also be allotted to visit with the speakers on an individual or small group basis.
Registration of $60 which covers educational materials, noon meal and breaks is requested by Jan. 24
The Mid-Plains BEEF Educational Series is an effort by a team of southeastern Nebraska Extension educators. To register or obtain more information, contact them at: Lindsay Chichester, Richardson County, 402-245-4324; Jessica Jones, Johnson County, 402-335-3669; Darci Pesek, Nuckolls/Thayer counties, 402-768-7212 or 402-225-2381; Monte Stauffer, Douglas/Sarpy counties, 402-444-7804; or Steve Tonn, Washington County, 402-426-9455.
Farmers and Ranchers Cow/Calf College at USMARC Jan. 22
The annual Farmers and Ranchers Cow/Calf College "Partners in Progress – Beef Seminar" will be Jan. 22 at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center and Great Plains Veterinary Education Center near Clay Center.
Registration will be from 9-9:50 a.m. with coffee and donuts. The program will start at 9:50 a.m. and conclude around 3:45 p.m.
This year's theme will center on recovering from the 2012 drought and preparing for the potential of a 2013 drought.
This program is sponsored by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension's Farmers and Ranchers College and will feature several outstanding speakers discussing issues and management strategies that can affect the profitability of all beef producers, said Dewey Lienemann, UNL Extension educator in Webster County.
"The seminar is packed with experts in climate, forages, animal nutrition and reproduction and will provide information that should help in planning for the upcoming year," Lienemann said.
There is no cost for the event and the public is invited. Preregistration is required by Jan. 18 to ensure a seat, lunch and proceedings for the day.
The Cow/Calf College will kick off with a 9:50 a.m. welcome by John Pollak, director of the USMARC. He also will give a short overview of research at the center.
Other morning speakers and their presentations include: Allan Vyhnalek, UNL Extension educator, "Hay, Stalks, & Pastures: Costs & Considerations for 2013," which will give information on values, rental rates and considerations for coming out of a drought and possibly going into another, and Bruce Anderson, UNL Extension forage specialist, who will give producers information on "Forage Planning for the Possible 2013 Drought." This could be critical as beef producers faced a shortage of pasture and now hay and other forages in 2012 and prepare for 2013.
Lunch will be provided and will be handled with a rotation system during two noon sessions featuring Aaron Stalker, UNL beef range systems specialist, who will provide two concurrent presentations on "Corn Stalk Grazing: Values to Cattle Producers and Corn Farmers," and a presentation on the "New UNL Beef Body Condition Scoring App."
Rick Funston, UNL beef reproductive physiology specialist, will start off the afternoon. In light of current feed costs, many producers are looking at options and strategies for replacement heifer development in the months ahead. Participants can learn more about his research during "Cost Effective Replacement Heifer Development."
Al Dutcher, UNL state climatologist, will give his take on the "Potential for 2013 Drought: Weather Update." There is no doubt that most producers and especially beef producers are worried about what may be ahead for climate that will affect grass and forage production. This session will inform producers about upcoming weather conditions.
Concluding the college, all presenters will join on stage to pull everything together, give their final thoughts and considerations and then participate in a coffee-shop style panel discussion during which cattlemen can ask questions and get answers on topic questions that came to them during the day's sessions.
A chance for door prizes will be awarded to those who stay for the entire event.
For more information or to register, contact the UNL Extension Office at 621 N. Cedar, Red Cloud, Neb. 68930, call 402-746-3417 or email Lienemann at dlienemann2@unl.edu.
Additional information may be found at the Webster County UNL Extension website at http://www.webster.unl.edu.
Comment Period Extended on Iowa Nutrient Strategy
The public comment period for the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy has been extended by two weeks until Jan. 18, 2013. The original 45-day comment period was scheduled to close on Jan. 4.
It has been the goal all along to have broad public input on the strategy and we hope the two additional weeks will allow more Iowans to review the strategy and provide comment. We have had some requests for an extension of the comment period and hope those interested will take advantage of the additional time to participate in the comment period, said DNR Director Chuck Gipp and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey.
The Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy is a science and technology-based approach to assess and reduce nutrients delivered to Iowa waterways and the Gulf of Mexico. The strategy outlines voluntary efforts to reduce nutrients in surface water from both point sources, such as wastewater treatment plants and industrial facilities, and nonpoint sources, including farm fields and urban areas, in a scientific, reasonable and cost effective manner.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) and Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) worked with Iowa State University over a two-year period to develop the strategy. The resulting strategy is the first time such a comprehensive and integrated approach addressing both point and nonpoint sources of nutrients has been completed.
The Iowa strategy has been developed in response to the 2008 Gulf Hypoxia Action Plan that calls for the 12 states along the Mississippi River to develop strategies to reduce nutrient loading to the Gulf of Mexico. The Iowa strategy follows the recommended framework provided by EPA in 2011 and is only the second state to complete a statewide nutrient reduction strategy.
The full report, additional information and place for comments can be found at www.nutrientstrategy.iastate.edu.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa DNR and Iowa State University have hosted two public meetings and hosted a webinar to educate Iowans about the strategy and answer questions. The webinar has been archived and can be viewed on the nutrient strategy website at www.nutrientstrategy.iastate.edu. In addition, presentations will be made to farmers, certified crop advisors and others in the agriculture industry as part of ISU Extension and Outreach’s ongoing educational meetings.
As of Jan. 2, more than 350 comments had been received on the plan.
Biodiesel champion Sen. Byron Dorgan to give keynote address at National Biodiesel Conference & Expo
Senator Byron Dorgan may have retired from public office, but his passion for domestically produced renewable energy is stronger than ever. He's also well-positioned to continue shaping energy policy.
The National Biodiesel Board announced today that the former U.S. Senator, widely recognized as a national leader and expert in energy and agriculture issues, will give the keynote address on Wednesday, Feb. 6 at the National Biodiesel Conference & Expo in Las Vegas.
First elected to Congress in 1980, Dorgan represented his home state of North Dakota for 12 years in the U.S. House followed by 18 years in the U.S. Senate. After retiring, he became a senior fellow at the Bipartisan Policy Center, where he recently joined former Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott to launch and chair the center's Strategic Energy Policy Initiative.
As a House member and in the Senate, Dorgan was a champion for biodiesel and other renewable fuels. He repeatedly sponsored legislation to create the Renewable Fuel Standard and strongly advocated the biodiesel tax incentive. He also was an advocate for renewable energy programs in the Farm Bill.
"During his career in public office, Senator Dorgan consistently championed renewable energy and energy independence, promoted the economic needs of rural America, and fought for sound economic policies," said Joe Jobe, CEO of the National Biodiesel Board. "Senator Dorgan continues to be a thought leader in Washington D.C. and is highly engaged in energy policy development. We're thrilled that he will join us to share his insights as we lay a course for America's Advanced Biofuel for the next 20 years."
Recently Dorgan has been discussed in the media and elsewhere as under consideration to become Energy Secretary in President Obama's second term should current Secretary Steven Chu step down.
Dorgan was a senior senator on the Appropriations, Energy, and Commerce Committees in the Senate. He currently serves as serves as co-chairman of the government relations practice Arent Fox.
USDA Dairy Products Production November 2012 Highlights
Total cheese output (excluding cottage cheese) was 912 million pounds, 1.8 percent above November 2011 but 1.8 percent below October 2012. Italian type cheese production totaled 383 million pounds, 0.5 percent below November 2011 and 1.2 percent below October 2012. American type cheese production totaled 362 million pounds, 3.8 percent above November 2011 but 2.1 percent below October 2012. Butter production was 144 million pounds, 6.0 percent below November 2011 and 0.8 percent below October 2012.
Dry milk powders (comparisons with November 2011)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 116 million pounds, down 3.8 percent.
Skim milk powders - 44.7 million pounds, up 13.0 percent.
Whey products (comparisons with November 2011)
Dry whey, total - 71.5 million pounds, down 7.8 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 80.5 million pounds, down 1.5 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 36.5 million pounds, down 0.8 percent.
Frozen products (comparisons with November 2011)
Ice cream, regular (hard) - 54.0 million gallons, up 1.9 percent.
Ice cream, lowfat (total) - 25.0 million gallons, down 11.0 percent.
Sherbet (hard) - 2.57 million gallons, down 1.8 percent.
Frozen yogurt (total) - 3.45 million gallons, down 11.3 percent.
Tax Relief Act Is a Disappointment for Dairy Farmers
John Wilson, DFA Senior Vice President
“After years of work to bring dairy policy reform to fruition, we are extremely disappointed that Congress has turned its back on dairy farmers. Although passing the American Tax Relief Act of 2012 averted a ‘dairy cliff’ that would have devastated the industry, we are increasingly frustrated that legislators have again stalled the Dairy Security Act.
“In a vote earlier last year, the Senate gave a nod to the dairy policy reform outlined in the Dairy Security Act. The House Agriculture Committee did the same. But with the clock ticking and pressure on, Congress was never even given the opportunity to vote the Dairy Security Act into law.
“In a business climate that is so uncertain, inaction on real reform as part of a greater Farm Bill makes it more difficult for farmers to plan, operate and make business decisions in a competitive marketplace. Our nation’s dairy producers deserve better.
“Current domestic dairy programs, as we have witnessed during the last few years, do not provide farmers with the tools they need to manage risk and weather the extremely volatile global marketplace. The Dairy Security Act, developed by dairy farmers for dairy farmers, is the best alternative to current programs and is supported by farmers across the nation.
“During the 113th Congress, we will continue to work with the agricultural leaders in Washington, D.C., to push forward the meaningful reform that the Dairy Security Act brings. The continued support of Representatives Lucas and Peterson and Senators Stabenow and Roberts will be more important than ever as we continue the effort to bring long overdue change to the dairy industry.”
Argentina Corn Planting Jumps Ahead
Clear skies over Argentina's key corn growing areas in Buenos Aires and Cordoba provinces are expected to allow farmers to make a big push toward wrapping up corn planting within the 10 days left in the prime planting window, the Buenos Aries Cereals Exchange said in its weekly crop report Thursday.
"The weather is expected to be favorable in the areas affected by excess rainfall [and] the remaining area is expected to be planted in time," the exchange said.
Corn planting is 82% done, with the pace just 1.5 percentage points behind that of a year earlier.
The exchange held its commercial corn area forecast at 3.4 million hectares, down 12% on the year. The crop is in very good shape after being soaked by heavy rainfall so far this season, the exchange said.
Argentina, the world's no. 2 corn exporter behind the U.S., is expecting a corn crop of between 26 million and 27 million metric tons this season, topping the previous corn record of 24 million tons during the 2010-11 season, according to the corn chamber Maizar, and up sharply from the 21 million tons harvested during the drought-ravaged 2011-12 season.
Meanwhile, Argentina's soybean planting is 85% done with conditions also very good except for some spotty fields with wind or hail damage, according to the exchange. The exchange held its forecast for 2012-13 soybean area at 19.7 million hectares.
High prices and wet weather are expected to bring a bumper soy crop this season.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture expects Argentina to grow a record 55 million metric tons of soybeans, up from the previous record of 52.7 million tons set during the 2009-10 season.
Mosaic’s Nutrient Removal App Recognized
The Mosaic Company’s Nutrient Removal App was selected by AgProfessional editors as one of the 10 best and most innovative products introduced by the industry in 2012.
Since its debut in January 2012, the Nutrient Removal App has been downloaded over 6,500 times by farmers and retailers. Utilizing many years of agronomic research, the app creates a new way to access the data in the Mosaic “Balanced Crop Nutrition” guide at the touch of a button. Results can be stored as a profile, and emailed to advisors to aid decision-making in input planning.
To support the need for farmers to boost yields to feed a growing world population, the app provides nutrient removal data by yield for 36 different crops, informing farmers so they can make better input decisions and push past today’s yield barriers.
“When crop yields increase, if fertilizer is not increased to meet the crop’s nutrient needs, plants turn to the soil’s nutrient bank,” says Kyle Freeman, Ph.D., manager of new-product development at The Mosaic Company. “Keeping that soil nutrient bank healthy is crucial for not just the crop in the ground, but the crops to come in following years.”
The International Plant Nutrition Institute notes that up to 60 percent of yield can be attributed to the 4R’s: using the right source of fertilizer, at the right rate, in the right place and at the right time. Staying ahead of the curve on soil fertility can make the difference between a good growing year and a great growing year for farmers, and the Nutrient Removal App helps farmers stay on track.
AgProfessional editors chose the top 10 new products of 2012 based on their innovative support for the industry and how useful they are for agricultural retailers, crop consultants and farm managers in their businesses and as they advise clients.
“The data that the Nutrient Removal App provides can be the foundation and the starting point for fertilizer recommendations,” says Dr. Freeman. “Mosaic is also studying the interaction between macro and micronuturients as they support a high-yield cropping system.”
The Nutrient Removal App is free and available on Apple and Android operating platforms. Once downloaded, the app can be used without Internet service.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Wednesday January 2 Ag News
Johanns Statement on Senate’s Fiscal Cliff Vote
U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.) tonight supported legislation negotiated by Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Vice President Joe Biden to avert the fiscal cliff and extend the current farm bill. The package passed by a vote of 89-8.
“This agreement isn’t my ideal option, but I firmly believe going over the cliff isn’t an option at all,” Johanns said. “I would have preferred stopping a tax hike for every American, significantly reducing spending and strengthening Social Security and Medicare. This package, however, is a vast improvement from the Administration’s original proposal and no one can overlook the fact it protects an estimated 99 percent of Americans from being hit with the largest tax hike in our nation’s history.”
The fiscal cliff is a combination of expiring tax relief and automatic spending cuts that would have kicked in at the beginning of next year. Since no package will be signed by President Obama before the New Year, any final deal will take place retroactively so tax rates will continue uninterrupted for the overwhelming majority of American taxpayers.
Below are the details of the package:
· Permanently extends current tax rates for families earning less than $450,000 a year;
· Makes permanent current capital gains and dividends rates for families earning less than $450,000 while changing the rate to 20 percent for families making more than $450,000;
· Extends popular tax credits – like the tuition and child care tax credits – for five years;
· Extends the current $5 million estate tax exemption but the tax rate on estates over that limit would change from 35 percent to 40 percent;
· Prevents a 27 percent reduction in Medicare payments to doctors and other health care providers treating patients on Medicare;
· Replaces two months of the approximately $100 billion across-the-board spending cuts known as sequestration scheduled to start in January;
· Extends the current farm bill, which passed in 2008, through the end of this fiscal year;
· Permanently patches the Alternative Minimum Tax. This tax was originally designed to prevent high-income earners from using exemptions to avoid paying income taxes but did not automatically adjust for inflation. Without patching the AMT, this tax would impact nearly 135,000 Nebraska households earning as little as $33,750 a year according to the Congressional Research Office.
Without this agreement, American taxpayers would face a tax increase of almost $536 billion a year – the steepest single tax increase in American history. Roughly half of these tax increases would come from the expiration of the current income and investment income tax rates implemented during President George W. Bush’s tenure.
Because entitlements and interest on our debt currently account for nearly two-thirds of our nation’s spending, Johanns believes addressing programs like Medicare and Social Security must be part of any long-term solution.
NEFB Congressional Action on Federal Tax Policy and Farm Bill
Steve Nelson, President, NE Farm Bureau
“Congress’ action to address the fiscal cliff and federal tax policy is best described as a mixed bag, while actions relating to federal farm policy can only be described as a complete disappointment.”
Federal Tax Policy
“We encouraged Congress to extend 2012 estate tax provisions to preserve the $5 million exemption level and maintain a 35 percent tax rate to protect a significant number of Nebraska farm and ranch families from being subject to the death tax. Had Congress failed to act the exemption would have lowered to $1 million which would have broadened the reach of the estate tax to more Nebraska farms. Congress’ action to keep the $5 million exemption is a positive. However, Congress ultimately raised the rate to 40 percent which is a concern. The same can be said of Congress’ action to raise capital gains tax rates. It clearly could have been worse as the rate could have gone up for all farmers.”
“We are pleased Congress included tax provisions to help small businesses, the backbone of America’s economy. Congress increased the maximum amount small businesses can expense for capital purchases up to $500,000 for next year while also extending the 50 percent bonus depreciation for the purchases of capital assets. Both provisions will help farmers, ranchers and other small businesses when they invest in new equipment and assets to improve their operations.”
Farm Bill
“While Congress’ action on tax policy was not perfect, the fact that Congress was unable to pass a new five-year farm bill is most disheartening. What we have now is the continuation of a farm bill that no longer fits the needs of Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers. In extending provisions of the 2008 Farm Bill, we will continue on with a direct payment program instead of moving toward a farm bill with a foundation rooted in crop and revenue insurance programs designed to address losses that are beyond a farmer’s control.”
“Also disappointing for Nebraska farmers and ranchers is the decision to include, but not fund, much needed livestock disaster programs, despite the fact that both Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate supported reauthorization for these programs. Given the seriousness and impacts of the lingering drought, reauthorization and funding for these programs was critical, and now all we have is uncertainty and a reality that funding is highly questionable.”
“It is our hope that a new Congress will use 2013 to reevaluate the opportunities to address these issues through a new five-year farm bill.”
Farm Bill Deal A Disaster
In the waning hours of 2012, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Vice President Joe Biden negotiated a nine-month extension of the Farm Bill that the Center for Rural Affairs criticized heavily.
“The farm bill extension measure attached to the fiscal cliff legislation passed by the House of Representatives late last night slashes investment in the future of small rural communities and family farming and ranching,” said Chuck Hassebrook, Executive Director of the Center for Rural Affairs in Lyons, Nebraska.
According to Hassebrook, many smaller, targeted programs that invest in proven strategies to create rural jobs, revitalize rural communities and initiatives to foster a new generation of family farmers and ranchers were completely left out of the final farm bill extension. The eleventh hour deal also prevents farmers and ranchers from being able to improve soil and water conservation through enrollment in the Conservation Stewardship Program in 2013.
“We applaud the efforts of Senate Agriculture Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and House Agriculture Chair Frank Lucas (R-OK) who negotiated an agreement last weekend to address these crucial shortcomings,” explained Hassebrook. “But, regrettably their efforts were set aside in final negotiations over the fiscal cliff bill.”
The nine-month extension of the previous Farm Bill was attached to the complex fiscal cliff bill and passed the Senate in the early morning hours yesterday and passed the House of Representatives less than 20 hours later.
“The message is clear - despite high market prices, virtually unlimited commodity and crop insurance premium subsidies to mega farms remain uncapped, but beginning farmers and rural communities are left twisting in the wind,” concluded Hassebrook. “And conservation of our precious land and water gets put on hold.”
Congress Votes to Reinstate Biodiesel Tax Incentive
The U.S. biodiesel industry applauded Tuesday as the U.S. House cleared a year-end fiscal package that reinstates the biodiesel tax incentive for 2012 and 2013. President Obama is expected to quickly sign the bill into law.
"It's been a long year with a lot of missed opportunity and lost jobs in the biodiesel industry. But we're pleased that Congress has finally approved an extension so that we can get production back on track," said Anne Steckel, vice president of federal affairs at the National Biodiesel Board (NBB). "This is not an abstract issue. In the coming months, because of this decision, we'll begin to see real economic impacts with companies expanding production and hiring new employees."
The biodiesel tax incentive expired on Dec. 31, 2011. A recent study found that the industry would have produced an additional 300 million gallons this year with the tax incentive in place. That would have supported some 19,213 additional jobs, for a total of 83,258 jobs supported by the industry nationwide, according to the study, conducted by Cardno ENTRIX, an international economics consulting firm. Looking to next year, the study found that the industry would support some 112,078 jobs nationally with the tax credit in place versus 81,977 without it. Additionally, the return of the incentive is projected to increase household income by some $1.6 billion next year while supporting an additional $3.1 billion in GDP.
Along with these economic benefits, Steckel emphasized that biodiesel is helping reduce America's dependence on imported petroleum and making us less vulnerable to global petroleum markets that continue to disrupt the economy and threaten our national security, while significantly reducing tailpipe pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
"This is important not just for jobs but for diversifying our energy supplies, improving our energy security and reducing costly emissions," Steckel said.
The $1-per-gallon biodiesel tax incentive was first implemented in 2005. Congress has allowed it to lapse twice, in 2010 and again in 2012. Under the legislation approved by the House on Tuesday and first passed by the Senate on Monday, the incentive will be reinstated retroactively to Jan. 1, 2012 and through the end of 2013.
Steckel thanked the industry's supporters on Capitol Hill for pressing for the incentive, particularly Sens. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., and Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, and Reps. Aaron Schock, R-Ill.; and Collin Peterson, D-Minn.
NAWG Statement on Extending the 2008 Farm Bill
A statement from National Association of Wheat Growers President Erik Younggren, a wheat, soybean and sugar beet farmer from Hallock, Minn.:
“NAWG is pleased that leaders in Washington came to some agreement on fiscal and tax policy for our nation that includes an extension of farm policy through the 2013 wheat growing season. This will allow our nation’s farmers to know the parameters of tax policy and the farm safety net for spring planting decisions and allow continued operations of critical foreign market development programs.
“However, the extension of the 2008 farm bill is not ideal and we are concerned about unknown implications of automatic spending cuts, known as sequester, which are now postponed.
“We commend our agriculture leaders – Chairwoman Stabenow, Ranking Member Roberts, Chairman Lucas and Ranking Member Peterson – for their leadership in putting forth reforms that would have saved taxpayers tens of billions of dollars and regret that our joint efforts to reauthorize a five-year bill were not successful.
“It is of the utmost urgency to our farmer-members that Members of the 113th Congress reauthorize a new farm bill expeditiously. We call on policymakers to come to the table, compromise and send a five-year farm bill to the President for signature this year.”
RFA Comment on Extension of Cellulosic and Other Tax Credits
Commenting on passage of the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, which included extension of three key ethanol related tax credits, Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, commented:
“The one year extension of the cellulosic producer tax credit and accelerated depreciation provides some measure of certainty to ensure that 2013 will be a year of growth and milestones for the advanced ethanol industry. In addition, and equally significant, is the extension of the alternative fuel infrastructure tax credit which will accelerate E15’s entry into the marketplace this coming year. The extension of these important provisions demonstrates the Obama Administration’s stalwart support of biofuels and Congress’s belief in the promise of energy independence and job creation through domestic renewable energy resources.”
NCGA: Congress’ Farm Bill Failure Hampers America
National Corn Growers Association President Pam Johnson released the following statement in response to Congress’ inaction to pass a new five-year farm bill before the end of 2012:
“America’s farmers have clearly made known the importance and need of a new farm bill in 2012. Once again Congress’ failure to act pushes agriculture aside hampering farmers’ ability to make sound business decisions for the next five years. The National Corn Growers Association is tired of the endless excuses and lack of accountability. The system is clearly broken.
“We hope the 113th Congress proves to be more fruitful and that the leaders in Congress can place petty partisanship aside to create a bill that benefits all of America.”
With Extension Passed, ASA Calls on 113th Congress to Commit to a New Farm Bill
With a vote of 257-167 late Tuesday night, the House of Representatives concurred with the Senate in passing a package to avert the “fiscal cliff” that includes an extension of the 2008 Farm Bill, funding and authorizing key farm, research and nutrition programs through the end of the 2013 fiscal year in September. American Soybean Association (ASA) President Danny Murphy, a soybean farmer from Canton, Miss., releases the following statement on the vote:
“As we have been working with our colleagues on Capitol Hill for more than two years on a comprehensive, five-year bill, we are very disappointed that Congress was not able to come together and pass a new bill in the best interests of farmers. However, the extension of the 2008 Farm Bill allows important foreign market development, disaster assistance, and farm safety net programs to continue.
“ASA is also pleased that the larger package passed by both the House and the Senate to avert the ‘fiscal cliff’, of which the extension was a part, included a meaningful solution to the estate tax challenges faced by farm families and many other small businesses. The deal provides for a tax rate of 40 percent on estates with a value greater than $5 million, or $10 million per couple, and is indexed to inflation. All changes to the estate tax under the fiscal cliff package are permanent.
"Additionally, ASA welcomes the extension of the biodiesel tax incentive of one dollar, included in the fiscal cliff deal, and retroactive to 2012 and on through 2013. Both the estate tax solution and the extension of the biodiesel tax incentive are top priorities for ASA.
“While the extension is certainly preferable to the alternative of no bill at all, and prevents outdated permanent agricultural law enacted in the 1930s and 1940s from going into effect, it is only a stopgap measure, which does not provide the long-term certainty and stability that farmers need. Once the extension expires at the end of the fiscal year in September, we will be left at the same impasse we’ve had since the House Agriculture Committee passed its farm bill in July unless our elected leaders can find a way to come back to the bargaining table with a renewed focus on what’s important, not just for soybean farmers, but for all of agriculture and for the nation as a whole. It’s imperative that our members of Congress in both chambers and in both parties move past party politics and get the job done this time.
“As always, ASA is ready to work with the Senate and House Agriculture Committees to craft and pass a new farm bill before the current extension expires at the end of September.”
ASA Cheers Biodiesel, Estate Tax Victories in Fiscal Cliff Package
With yesterday’s passage of legislation by the House and Senate to avoid the year-end “fiscal cliff”, the American Soybean Association (ASA) welcomes provisions in the law that extend the biodiesel tax incentive and provide a permanent solution to the estate tax, two of ASA’s major priorities in 2012 and 2013. ASA President and Canton, Miss.-based farmer Danny Murphy noted the association’s enthusiasm for these tax provisions in the following statement:
“The extension of the biodiesel tax incentive and the solution provided for the estate tax that Congress included in the fiscal cliff package are two resounding victories for soybean farmers, and ASA applauds the House and the Senate for including these two policies that provide some certainty for farmers going forward. These have been two of ASA’s foremost priorities in recent years, and soybean farmers stand to benefit significantly from the stability and certainty created by these provisions.
“The estate tax, which would have reverted to levels unrealistic for family farm operations in the absence of congressional action, was permanently set through the legislation at a rate of 40 percent on estates valued at $5 million, or $10 million per couple, which is a much more viable framework for the land-based and capital-intensive nature of family farms like ours. This solution allows farmers to pass their operations from generation to generation without the undue burden of an unrealistic estate tax structure.
“With regard to the biodiesel tax incentive, the extension of the dollar-per-gallon credit retroactive to 2012 and through 2013 is also a significant win for the burgeoning biodiesel industry, an important market for soybean growers. More than half of all biodiesel produced in the U.S. uses the oil from American-grown soybeans as a feedstock, which helps to grow our domestic fuel supply and creates soy meal as a byproduct, providing protein-rich animal feed for livestock, poultry and aquaculture.
“ASA recognizes and appreciates the work put in by the House, the Senate and the Obama Administration in crafting this legislation to address many tax issues, including these two significant policy provisions for soybean farmers.”
NMPF to Focus on Passing New Farm Bill in 2013 after Congress Extends Existing Version
Now that the House of Representatives has passed the Senate’s fiscal cliff package extending existing farm programs into 2013, the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) said today it will continue its push in the 113th Congress for a five-year farm bill that includes the Dairy Security Act.
NMPF said that “we need to spend the coming months figuring out how to move farm policy forward. The status quo is not an acceptable outcome, either for farmers or taxpayers. The renewal of current programs doesn’t offer dairy farmers a meaningful safety net,” said Jerry Kozak, President and CEO of NMPF. The fiscal cliff package, among other things, extended the MILC program through Sept. 30th, 2013, and the price support program through Dec. 31st of this year.
Kozak thanked supporters of the Dairy Security Act – the new margin insurance-based safety net for dairy farmers – who worked diligently into the final hours of 2012 attempting to gain its inclusion in the final legislative fiscal cliff package.
As the Senate and House Agriculture committees begin work next month on a full, five-year farm bill, Kozak said that dairy farmers would reiterate the value of the Dairy Security Act, which eliminates the dairy product price support program, direct payments, and export subsidies, and establishes a voluntary risk management tool for farmers that saves the government money.
Kozak did express satisfaction that the overall fiscal cliff deal prevents the estate tax from returning at punitively high levels in 2013. The package includes a 40% rate on estates valued at more than $5 million, up from the previous 35% rate, but far less than the 55% top rate on $1 million estates that could have become permanent absent the new package.
USDA Announces Commodity Credit Corporation Lending Rates for January 2013
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) today announced interest rates for January 2013. The CCC borrowing rate-based charge for January 2013 is 0.125 percent, unchanged from 0.125 in December 2012. For 1996 and subsequent crop year commodity and marketing assistance loans, the interest rate for loans disbursed during January 2013 is 1.125 percent, unchanged from 1.125 in December 2012.
Interest rates for Farm Storage Facility Loans approved for January 2013 are as follows, 1.125 percent with seven-year loan terms, unchanged from 1.125 in December 2012; 1.625 percent with 10-year loan terms, down from 1.750 in December 2012 and; 1.875 percent with 12-year loan terms, unchanged from 1.875 percent in December 2012.
Fertilizer Prices Steady at Year End
Retail fertilizer prices continued to remain steady the fourth week of December, as has been the case now for several months, according to data tracked by DTN. This marks the eighth week in a row prices have not moved in either direction. Six of the eight major fertilizers slid lower compared to last month, but these moves were fairly minor. DAP had average price of $636 per ton, MAP $669/ton, potash $598/ton, urea $570/ton, 10-34-0 $602/ton and UAN28 $372/ton. The remaining two fertilizers were higher compared to the fourth week of November, but again the move higher was extremely slight. Anhydrous had an average price of $865/ton and UAN32 was at $423/ton.
On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.62/lb.N, anhydrous $0.53/lb.N, UAN28 $0.66/lb.N and UAN32 $0.66/lb.N.
DTN's retail survey shows two of the eight major fertilizers are still showing a price increase compared to one year earlier. Anhydrous is now 8% higher while urea is 1% higher compared to last year. Five fertilizers are actually lower in price compared to December 2011. UAN32 is 5% less expensive, DAP and UAN28 are both 6% lower, MAP is 8% lower and potash is 9% less compared to last year. The remaining fertilizer is now down double digits from a year ago. 10-34-0 is now 27% less expensive from a year earlier.
ICGA: Making Iowa's Roads Better
Iowa's bridges and roads are essential to corn production, as rural roads make up nearly 90,000 miles of Iowa's 114,000 mile road system. The agricultural sector is a vital part of Iowa's economy, yet Iowa's farm to market roads and rural bridges are in great disrepair. The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) policy supports a fuel tax increase to fund transportation improvements to existing infrastructure in the state. A fuel tax increase was the ICGA's top priority in 2012 and will continue to be an issue in the 2013 legislative session.
An increased fuel tax would act as a user fee as it is the way to collect funding from out-of-state drivers who use and also contribute to the deterioration of our roads. The Iowa Department of Transportation has estimated to be 15 percent of passenger travel.
Funding to support Iowa's roads and bridges is currently not sufficient to meet the maintenance demands of Iowa's road system. Iowa's fuel tax has not been increased since 1989; while repair and construction costs have continuously increased for over 20 years. Although, no one wants to pay higher taxes, Iowa must make this investment as infrastructure repair costs will only become greater in the future.
The ICGA is urging the legislature to support a fuel tax increase to improve our road infrastructure.
GROWMARK Acquires Bunge's Interest in B-G Fertilizer
GROWMARK, Inc. announced it has agreed to purchase Bunge North America's interest in B-G Fertilizer, LLC. B-G Fertilizer, LLC owns and operates the former CF Industries terminal located in Cincinnati, Ohio to serve the needs of retail customers that provide fertilizer to farmers. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
"We have had a great working relationship with Bunge during the past two years," said Jim Spradlin, GROWMARK Vice President, Agronomy. "The Cincinnati terminal has brought value to the dealers in the areas it serves and we look forward to continuing to provide the outstanding customer experience for which the team at Cincinnati is known."
GROWMARK and Bunge also announced that GROWMARK will lease Bunge fertilizer assets located in Council Bluffs, Iowa and Fulton, Illinois. These facilities will be incorporated into the current GROWMARK portfolio to expand the cooperative's scope and reach.
CTB Purchases the Assets of LeMar Industries
CTB, Inc., Milford, Ind., announced that it has purchased the assets of Martin Industries, Corp. and its related subsidiaries including LeMar Industries Corp. Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, LeMar is a leading designer and manufacturer of all of the structures and equipment related to loading, unloading and moving grain through a grain storage facility including catwalks, towers, bucket elevators, conveyors and sweeps. The company also makes temporary grain storage. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Martin Industries is also the parent company for Riley Equipment, which makes bucket elevators, grain conveyors and other bulk material handling equipment; Hall Industries, a custom designer and metal fabricator with a state-of-the-art powder-coating operation; Midwest Bearing & Supply, a bearing and power transmission supply house; and The Grain Reclaim Machine Company, a grain pickup service. The company operates from facilities in Des Moines and Sheffield, Iowa, as well as from Vincennes, Indiana. Lemar's facilities encompass more than 300,000 square feet of manufacturing space with a focus on precision in-house engineering and lean manufacturing. The company employs nearly 200 people and is widely recognized for its proven ability to design custom solutions for customers in the U.S. and around the world. It is an American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) certified fabricator.
CTB president and chief executive officer Victor A. Mancinelli noted that the acquisition completes CTB's offering to the grain industry. "Adding LeMar's leading grain handling systems to Brock's line of grain storage, handling, conditioning and drying solutions means that CTB's Brock division can now offer its customers and dealers a complete grain preservation package," said Mancinelli. "The acquisition also provides CTB with additional engineering expertise and talented people as well as with manufacturing options in the heart of the U.S. grain belt."
Mancinelli added, "LeMar has had a close relationship with Brock and its dealers for many years. This broadening of our already strong grain product line should benefit our dealers and customers tremendously through the ability to rely on Brock as a single source solution to their needs."
LeMar was founded in 1982 by Bob and Sharron Martin. Bob Martin has managed the company together with his sons Scott and Richard for the last 11 years. After the acquisition, the senior managers, Scott Martin and Jason Luster, will continue in their respective leadership roles and will report to CTB's Doug Niemeyer, Executive Vice President and General Manager of CTB's Brock Grain Systems business unit. Niemeyer remarked, "We are very pleased to add these two grain industry leaders to our team." CTB will continue operations in the existing LeMar facilities.
Commenting on the acquisition, Bob Martin said, "My family and I are thrilled to find such a great home for the business we started thirty years ago. Brock is well known as an industry leader, and, with its backing by CTB and Berkshire Hathaway, it offers great stability and promise for the future of LeMar's brands and product lines."
Despite Food Safety Problems, Australia’s Privatized Meat Inspection Deemed “Equivalent” to U.S. by USDA
Today the consumer advocacy group Food & Water Watch called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture to review its decision to allow the newly privatized meat inspection system of Australia to be considered equivalent to U.S. inspection. In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, the group pointed to repeated discoveries of meat imported from Australia that was contaminated with fecal material and digestive tract contents.
“Documents from USDA and Australian officials reveal that this is not an isolated problem,” said Wenonah Hauter, executive director of Food & Water Watch. “The repeated problems with products coming from Australia in 2012 show that this is a systemic problem and that privatized meat inspection in Australia is not working.”
One letter from a USDA official to Australian food safety officials, summed up the problems in imported products from Australia: “Within the last month, there have been five additional zero tolerance (fecal material/ingesta) POE (point-of-entry) violations in four separate establishments, including one establishment that had repetitive violations during this month (December, 2012), as well as earlier this calendar year.”
Australia is not the only country exporting meat to the United States that is operating a privatized inspection system, and is not the only exporting country with food safety problems. In 2012, there was a recall in the United States for 2.5 million pounds of Canadian beef products that were potentially contaminated with E. coli 0157:H7 produced using a privatized inspection system that the USDA had secretly recognized in 2006.
“U.S. consumers should not be endangered by unsafe imports from Australia or from any other country exporting to the United States,” said Hauter. “It is time for USDA to revoke the equivalency determinations of privatized meat inspection schemes, and to abandon its attempts to privatize inspection here in the United States.”
Food & Water Watch's letter can be found at: http://documents.foodandwaterwatch.org/doc/AU_meat_equivalent_USDA_letter.pdf.
U.S. Sen. Mike Johanns (R-Neb.) tonight supported legislation negotiated by Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Vice President Joe Biden to avert the fiscal cliff and extend the current farm bill. The package passed by a vote of 89-8.
“This agreement isn’t my ideal option, but I firmly believe going over the cliff isn’t an option at all,” Johanns said. “I would have preferred stopping a tax hike for every American, significantly reducing spending and strengthening Social Security and Medicare. This package, however, is a vast improvement from the Administration’s original proposal and no one can overlook the fact it protects an estimated 99 percent of Americans from being hit with the largest tax hike in our nation’s history.”
The fiscal cliff is a combination of expiring tax relief and automatic spending cuts that would have kicked in at the beginning of next year. Since no package will be signed by President Obama before the New Year, any final deal will take place retroactively so tax rates will continue uninterrupted for the overwhelming majority of American taxpayers.
Below are the details of the package:
· Permanently extends current tax rates for families earning less than $450,000 a year;
· Makes permanent current capital gains and dividends rates for families earning less than $450,000 while changing the rate to 20 percent for families making more than $450,000;
· Extends popular tax credits – like the tuition and child care tax credits – for five years;
· Extends the current $5 million estate tax exemption but the tax rate on estates over that limit would change from 35 percent to 40 percent;
· Prevents a 27 percent reduction in Medicare payments to doctors and other health care providers treating patients on Medicare;
· Replaces two months of the approximately $100 billion across-the-board spending cuts known as sequestration scheduled to start in January;
· Extends the current farm bill, which passed in 2008, through the end of this fiscal year;
· Permanently patches the Alternative Minimum Tax. This tax was originally designed to prevent high-income earners from using exemptions to avoid paying income taxes but did not automatically adjust for inflation. Without patching the AMT, this tax would impact nearly 135,000 Nebraska households earning as little as $33,750 a year according to the Congressional Research Office.
Without this agreement, American taxpayers would face a tax increase of almost $536 billion a year – the steepest single tax increase in American history. Roughly half of these tax increases would come from the expiration of the current income and investment income tax rates implemented during President George W. Bush’s tenure.
Because entitlements and interest on our debt currently account for nearly two-thirds of our nation’s spending, Johanns believes addressing programs like Medicare and Social Security must be part of any long-term solution.
NEFB Congressional Action on Federal Tax Policy and Farm Bill
Steve Nelson, President, NE Farm Bureau
“Congress’ action to address the fiscal cliff and federal tax policy is best described as a mixed bag, while actions relating to federal farm policy can only be described as a complete disappointment.”
Federal Tax Policy
“We encouraged Congress to extend 2012 estate tax provisions to preserve the $5 million exemption level and maintain a 35 percent tax rate to protect a significant number of Nebraska farm and ranch families from being subject to the death tax. Had Congress failed to act the exemption would have lowered to $1 million which would have broadened the reach of the estate tax to more Nebraska farms. Congress’ action to keep the $5 million exemption is a positive. However, Congress ultimately raised the rate to 40 percent which is a concern. The same can be said of Congress’ action to raise capital gains tax rates. It clearly could have been worse as the rate could have gone up for all farmers.”
“We are pleased Congress included tax provisions to help small businesses, the backbone of America’s economy. Congress increased the maximum amount small businesses can expense for capital purchases up to $500,000 for next year while also extending the 50 percent bonus depreciation for the purchases of capital assets. Both provisions will help farmers, ranchers and other small businesses when they invest in new equipment and assets to improve their operations.”
Farm Bill
“While Congress’ action on tax policy was not perfect, the fact that Congress was unable to pass a new five-year farm bill is most disheartening. What we have now is the continuation of a farm bill that no longer fits the needs of Nebraska’s farmers and ranchers. In extending provisions of the 2008 Farm Bill, we will continue on with a direct payment program instead of moving toward a farm bill with a foundation rooted in crop and revenue insurance programs designed to address losses that are beyond a farmer’s control.”
“Also disappointing for Nebraska farmers and ranchers is the decision to include, but not fund, much needed livestock disaster programs, despite the fact that both Democrats and Republicans in the House and Senate supported reauthorization for these programs. Given the seriousness and impacts of the lingering drought, reauthorization and funding for these programs was critical, and now all we have is uncertainty and a reality that funding is highly questionable.”
“It is our hope that a new Congress will use 2013 to reevaluate the opportunities to address these issues through a new five-year farm bill.”
Farm Bill Deal A Disaster
In the waning hours of 2012, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Vice President Joe Biden negotiated a nine-month extension of the Farm Bill that the Center for Rural Affairs criticized heavily.
“The farm bill extension measure attached to the fiscal cliff legislation passed by the House of Representatives late last night slashes investment in the future of small rural communities and family farming and ranching,” said Chuck Hassebrook, Executive Director of the Center for Rural Affairs in Lyons, Nebraska.
According to Hassebrook, many smaller, targeted programs that invest in proven strategies to create rural jobs, revitalize rural communities and initiatives to foster a new generation of family farmers and ranchers were completely left out of the final farm bill extension. The eleventh hour deal also prevents farmers and ranchers from being able to improve soil and water conservation through enrollment in the Conservation Stewardship Program in 2013.
“We applaud the efforts of Senate Agriculture Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and House Agriculture Chair Frank Lucas (R-OK) who negotiated an agreement last weekend to address these crucial shortcomings,” explained Hassebrook. “But, regrettably their efforts were set aside in final negotiations over the fiscal cliff bill.”
The nine-month extension of the previous Farm Bill was attached to the complex fiscal cliff bill and passed the Senate in the early morning hours yesterday and passed the House of Representatives less than 20 hours later.
“The message is clear - despite high market prices, virtually unlimited commodity and crop insurance premium subsidies to mega farms remain uncapped, but beginning farmers and rural communities are left twisting in the wind,” concluded Hassebrook. “And conservation of our precious land and water gets put on hold.”
Congress Votes to Reinstate Biodiesel Tax Incentive
The U.S. biodiesel industry applauded Tuesday as the U.S. House cleared a year-end fiscal package that reinstates the biodiesel tax incentive for 2012 and 2013. President Obama is expected to quickly sign the bill into law.
"It's been a long year with a lot of missed opportunity and lost jobs in the biodiesel industry. But we're pleased that Congress has finally approved an extension so that we can get production back on track," said Anne Steckel, vice president of federal affairs at the National Biodiesel Board (NBB). "This is not an abstract issue. In the coming months, because of this decision, we'll begin to see real economic impacts with companies expanding production and hiring new employees."
The biodiesel tax incentive expired on Dec. 31, 2011. A recent study found that the industry would have produced an additional 300 million gallons this year with the tax incentive in place. That would have supported some 19,213 additional jobs, for a total of 83,258 jobs supported by the industry nationwide, according to the study, conducted by Cardno ENTRIX, an international economics consulting firm. Looking to next year, the study found that the industry would support some 112,078 jobs nationally with the tax credit in place versus 81,977 without it. Additionally, the return of the incentive is projected to increase household income by some $1.6 billion next year while supporting an additional $3.1 billion in GDP.
Along with these economic benefits, Steckel emphasized that biodiesel is helping reduce America's dependence on imported petroleum and making us less vulnerable to global petroleum markets that continue to disrupt the economy and threaten our national security, while significantly reducing tailpipe pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
"This is important not just for jobs but for diversifying our energy supplies, improving our energy security and reducing costly emissions," Steckel said.
The $1-per-gallon biodiesel tax incentive was first implemented in 2005. Congress has allowed it to lapse twice, in 2010 and again in 2012. Under the legislation approved by the House on Tuesday and first passed by the Senate on Monday, the incentive will be reinstated retroactively to Jan. 1, 2012 and through the end of 2013.
Steckel thanked the industry's supporters on Capitol Hill for pressing for the incentive, particularly Sens. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., and Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, and Reps. Aaron Schock, R-Ill.; and Collin Peterson, D-Minn.
NAWG Statement on Extending the 2008 Farm Bill
A statement from National Association of Wheat Growers President Erik Younggren, a wheat, soybean and sugar beet farmer from Hallock, Minn.:
“NAWG is pleased that leaders in Washington came to some agreement on fiscal and tax policy for our nation that includes an extension of farm policy through the 2013 wheat growing season. This will allow our nation’s farmers to know the parameters of tax policy and the farm safety net for spring planting decisions and allow continued operations of critical foreign market development programs.
“However, the extension of the 2008 farm bill is not ideal and we are concerned about unknown implications of automatic spending cuts, known as sequester, which are now postponed.
“We commend our agriculture leaders – Chairwoman Stabenow, Ranking Member Roberts, Chairman Lucas and Ranking Member Peterson – for their leadership in putting forth reforms that would have saved taxpayers tens of billions of dollars and regret that our joint efforts to reauthorize a five-year bill were not successful.
“It is of the utmost urgency to our farmer-members that Members of the 113th Congress reauthorize a new farm bill expeditiously. We call on policymakers to come to the table, compromise and send a five-year farm bill to the President for signature this year.”
RFA Comment on Extension of Cellulosic and Other Tax Credits
Commenting on passage of the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012, which included extension of three key ethanol related tax credits, Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association, commented:
“The one year extension of the cellulosic producer tax credit and accelerated depreciation provides some measure of certainty to ensure that 2013 will be a year of growth and milestones for the advanced ethanol industry. In addition, and equally significant, is the extension of the alternative fuel infrastructure tax credit which will accelerate E15’s entry into the marketplace this coming year. The extension of these important provisions demonstrates the Obama Administration’s stalwart support of biofuels and Congress’s belief in the promise of energy independence and job creation through domestic renewable energy resources.”
NCGA: Congress’ Farm Bill Failure Hampers America
National Corn Growers Association President Pam Johnson released the following statement in response to Congress’ inaction to pass a new five-year farm bill before the end of 2012:
“America’s farmers have clearly made known the importance and need of a new farm bill in 2012. Once again Congress’ failure to act pushes agriculture aside hampering farmers’ ability to make sound business decisions for the next five years. The National Corn Growers Association is tired of the endless excuses and lack of accountability. The system is clearly broken.
“We hope the 113th Congress proves to be more fruitful and that the leaders in Congress can place petty partisanship aside to create a bill that benefits all of America.”
With Extension Passed, ASA Calls on 113th Congress to Commit to a New Farm Bill
With a vote of 257-167 late Tuesday night, the House of Representatives concurred with the Senate in passing a package to avert the “fiscal cliff” that includes an extension of the 2008 Farm Bill, funding and authorizing key farm, research and nutrition programs through the end of the 2013 fiscal year in September. American Soybean Association (ASA) President Danny Murphy, a soybean farmer from Canton, Miss., releases the following statement on the vote:
“As we have been working with our colleagues on Capitol Hill for more than two years on a comprehensive, five-year bill, we are very disappointed that Congress was not able to come together and pass a new bill in the best interests of farmers. However, the extension of the 2008 Farm Bill allows important foreign market development, disaster assistance, and farm safety net programs to continue.
“ASA is also pleased that the larger package passed by both the House and the Senate to avert the ‘fiscal cliff’, of which the extension was a part, included a meaningful solution to the estate tax challenges faced by farm families and many other small businesses. The deal provides for a tax rate of 40 percent on estates with a value greater than $5 million, or $10 million per couple, and is indexed to inflation. All changes to the estate tax under the fiscal cliff package are permanent.
"Additionally, ASA welcomes the extension of the biodiesel tax incentive of one dollar, included in the fiscal cliff deal, and retroactive to 2012 and on through 2013. Both the estate tax solution and the extension of the biodiesel tax incentive are top priorities for ASA.
“While the extension is certainly preferable to the alternative of no bill at all, and prevents outdated permanent agricultural law enacted in the 1930s and 1940s from going into effect, it is only a stopgap measure, which does not provide the long-term certainty and stability that farmers need. Once the extension expires at the end of the fiscal year in September, we will be left at the same impasse we’ve had since the House Agriculture Committee passed its farm bill in July unless our elected leaders can find a way to come back to the bargaining table with a renewed focus on what’s important, not just for soybean farmers, but for all of agriculture and for the nation as a whole. It’s imperative that our members of Congress in both chambers and in both parties move past party politics and get the job done this time.
“As always, ASA is ready to work with the Senate and House Agriculture Committees to craft and pass a new farm bill before the current extension expires at the end of September.”
ASA Cheers Biodiesel, Estate Tax Victories in Fiscal Cliff Package
With yesterday’s passage of legislation by the House and Senate to avoid the year-end “fiscal cliff”, the American Soybean Association (ASA) welcomes provisions in the law that extend the biodiesel tax incentive and provide a permanent solution to the estate tax, two of ASA’s major priorities in 2012 and 2013. ASA President and Canton, Miss.-based farmer Danny Murphy noted the association’s enthusiasm for these tax provisions in the following statement:
“The extension of the biodiesel tax incentive and the solution provided for the estate tax that Congress included in the fiscal cliff package are two resounding victories for soybean farmers, and ASA applauds the House and the Senate for including these two policies that provide some certainty for farmers going forward. These have been two of ASA’s foremost priorities in recent years, and soybean farmers stand to benefit significantly from the stability and certainty created by these provisions.
“The estate tax, which would have reverted to levels unrealistic for family farm operations in the absence of congressional action, was permanently set through the legislation at a rate of 40 percent on estates valued at $5 million, or $10 million per couple, which is a much more viable framework for the land-based and capital-intensive nature of family farms like ours. This solution allows farmers to pass their operations from generation to generation without the undue burden of an unrealistic estate tax structure.
“With regard to the biodiesel tax incentive, the extension of the dollar-per-gallon credit retroactive to 2012 and through 2013 is also a significant win for the burgeoning biodiesel industry, an important market for soybean growers. More than half of all biodiesel produced in the U.S. uses the oil from American-grown soybeans as a feedstock, which helps to grow our domestic fuel supply and creates soy meal as a byproduct, providing protein-rich animal feed for livestock, poultry and aquaculture.
“ASA recognizes and appreciates the work put in by the House, the Senate and the Obama Administration in crafting this legislation to address many tax issues, including these two significant policy provisions for soybean farmers.”
NMPF to Focus on Passing New Farm Bill in 2013 after Congress Extends Existing Version
Now that the House of Representatives has passed the Senate’s fiscal cliff package extending existing farm programs into 2013, the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) said today it will continue its push in the 113th Congress for a five-year farm bill that includes the Dairy Security Act.
NMPF said that “we need to spend the coming months figuring out how to move farm policy forward. The status quo is not an acceptable outcome, either for farmers or taxpayers. The renewal of current programs doesn’t offer dairy farmers a meaningful safety net,” said Jerry Kozak, President and CEO of NMPF. The fiscal cliff package, among other things, extended the MILC program through Sept. 30th, 2013, and the price support program through Dec. 31st of this year.
Kozak thanked supporters of the Dairy Security Act – the new margin insurance-based safety net for dairy farmers – who worked diligently into the final hours of 2012 attempting to gain its inclusion in the final legislative fiscal cliff package.
As the Senate and House Agriculture committees begin work next month on a full, five-year farm bill, Kozak said that dairy farmers would reiterate the value of the Dairy Security Act, which eliminates the dairy product price support program, direct payments, and export subsidies, and establishes a voluntary risk management tool for farmers that saves the government money.
Kozak did express satisfaction that the overall fiscal cliff deal prevents the estate tax from returning at punitively high levels in 2013. The package includes a 40% rate on estates valued at more than $5 million, up from the previous 35% rate, but far less than the 55% top rate on $1 million estates that could have become permanent absent the new package.
USDA Announces Commodity Credit Corporation Lending Rates for January 2013
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) today announced interest rates for January 2013. The CCC borrowing rate-based charge for January 2013 is 0.125 percent, unchanged from 0.125 in December 2012. For 1996 and subsequent crop year commodity and marketing assistance loans, the interest rate for loans disbursed during January 2013 is 1.125 percent, unchanged from 1.125 in December 2012.
Interest rates for Farm Storage Facility Loans approved for January 2013 are as follows, 1.125 percent with seven-year loan terms, unchanged from 1.125 in December 2012; 1.625 percent with 10-year loan terms, down from 1.750 in December 2012 and; 1.875 percent with 12-year loan terms, unchanged from 1.875 percent in December 2012.
Fertilizer Prices Steady at Year End
Retail fertilizer prices continued to remain steady the fourth week of December, as has been the case now for several months, according to data tracked by DTN. This marks the eighth week in a row prices have not moved in either direction. Six of the eight major fertilizers slid lower compared to last month, but these moves were fairly minor. DAP had average price of $636 per ton, MAP $669/ton, potash $598/ton, urea $570/ton, 10-34-0 $602/ton and UAN28 $372/ton. The remaining two fertilizers were higher compared to the fourth week of November, but again the move higher was extremely slight. Anhydrous had an average price of $865/ton and UAN32 was at $423/ton.
On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.62/lb.N, anhydrous $0.53/lb.N, UAN28 $0.66/lb.N and UAN32 $0.66/lb.N.
DTN's retail survey shows two of the eight major fertilizers are still showing a price increase compared to one year earlier. Anhydrous is now 8% higher while urea is 1% higher compared to last year. Five fertilizers are actually lower in price compared to December 2011. UAN32 is 5% less expensive, DAP and UAN28 are both 6% lower, MAP is 8% lower and potash is 9% less compared to last year. The remaining fertilizer is now down double digits from a year ago. 10-34-0 is now 27% less expensive from a year earlier.
ICGA: Making Iowa's Roads Better
Iowa's bridges and roads are essential to corn production, as rural roads make up nearly 90,000 miles of Iowa's 114,000 mile road system. The agricultural sector is a vital part of Iowa's economy, yet Iowa's farm to market roads and rural bridges are in great disrepair. The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA) policy supports a fuel tax increase to fund transportation improvements to existing infrastructure in the state. A fuel tax increase was the ICGA's top priority in 2012 and will continue to be an issue in the 2013 legislative session.
An increased fuel tax would act as a user fee as it is the way to collect funding from out-of-state drivers who use and also contribute to the deterioration of our roads. The Iowa Department of Transportation has estimated to be 15 percent of passenger travel.
Funding to support Iowa's roads and bridges is currently not sufficient to meet the maintenance demands of Iowa's road system. Iowa's fuel tax has not been increased since 1989; while repair and construction costs have continuously increased for over 20 years. Although, no one wants to pay higher taxes, Iowa must make this investment as infrastructure repair costs will only become greater in the future.
The ICGA is urging the legislature to support a fuel tax increase to improve our road infrastructure.
GROWMARK Acquires Bunge's Interest in B-G Fertilizer
GROWMARK, Inc. announced it has agreed to purchase Bunge North America's interest in B-G Fertilizer, LLC. B-G Fertilizer, LLC owns and operates the former CF Industries terminal located in Cincinnati, Ohio to serve the needs of retail customers that provide fertilizer to farmers. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
"We have had a great working relationship with Bunge during the past two years," said Jim Spradlin, GROWMARK Vice President, Agronomy. "The Cincinnati terminal has brought value to the dealers in the areas it serves and we look forward to continuing to provide the outstanding customer experience for which the team at Cincinnati is known."
GROWMARK and Bunge also announced that GROWMARK will lease Bunge fertilizer assets located in Council Bluffs, Iowa and Fulton, Illinois. These facilities will be incorporated into the current GROWMARK portfolio to expand the cooperative's scope and reach.
CTB Purchases the Assets of LeMar Industries
CTB, Inc., Milford, Ind., announced that it has purchased the assets of Martin Industries, Corp. and its related subsidiaries including LeMar Industries Corp. Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, LeMar is a leading designer and manufacturer of all of the structures and equipment related to loading, unloading and moving grain through a grain storage facility including catwalks, towers, bucket elevators, conveyors and sweeps. The company also makes temporary grain storage. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Martin Industries is also the parent company for Riley Equipment, which makes bucket elevators, grain conveyors and other bulk material handling equipment; Hall Industries, a custom designer and metal fabricator with a state-of-the-art powder-coating operation; Midwest Bearing & Supply, a bearing and power transmission supply house; and The Grain Reclaim Machine Company, a grain pickup service. The company operates from facilities in Des Moines and Sheffield, Iowa, as well as from Vincennes, Indiana. Lemar's facilities encompass more than 300,000 square feet of manufacturing space with a focus on precision in-house engineering and lean manufacturing. The company employs nearly 200 people and is widely recognized for its proven ability to design custom solutions for customers in the U.S. and around the world. It is an American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) certified fabricator.
CTB president and chief executive officer Victor A. Mancinelli noted that the acquisition completes CTB's offering to the grain industry. "Adding LeMar's leading grain handling systems to Brock's line of grain storage, handling, conditioning and drying solutions means that CTB's Brock division can now offer its customers and dealers a complete grain preservation package," said Mancinelli. "The acquisition also provides CTB with additional engineering expertise and talented people as well as with manufacturing options in the heart of the U.S. grain belt."
Mancinelli added, "LeMar has had a close relationship with Brock and its dealers for many years. This broadening of our already strong grain product line should benefit our dealers and customers tremendously through the ability to rely on Brock as a single source solution to their needs."
LeMar was founded in 1982 by Bob and Sharron Martin. Bob Martin has managed the company together with his sons Scott and Richard for the last 11 years. After the acquisition, the senior managers, Scott Martin and Jason Luster, will continue in their respective leadership roles and will report to CTB's Doug Niemeyer, Executive Vice President and General Manager of CTB's Brock Grain Systems business unit. Niemeyer remarked, "We are very pleased to add these two grain industry leaders to our team." CTB will continue operations in the existing LeMar facilities.
Commenting on the acquisition, Bob Martin said, "My family and I are thrilled to find such a great home for the business we started thirty years ago. Brock is well known as an industry leader, and, with its backing by CTB and Berkshire Hathaway, it offers great stability and promise for the future of LeMar's brands and product lines."
Despite Food Safety Problems, Australia’s Privatized Meat Inspection Deemed “Equivalent” to U.S. by USDA
Today the consumer advocacy group Food & Water Watch called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture to review its decision to allow the newly privatized meat inspection system of Australia to be considered equivalent to U.S. inspection. In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, the group pointed to repeated discoveries of meat imported from Australia that was contaminated with fecal material and digestive tract contents.
“Documents from USDA and Australian officials reveal that this is not an isolated problem,” said Wenonah Hauter, executive director of Food & Water Watch. “The repeated problems with products coming from Australia in 2012 show that this is a systemic problem and that privatized meat inspection in Australia is not working.”
One letter from a USDA official to Australian food safety officials, summed up the problems in imported products from Australia: “Within the last month, there have been five additional zero tolerance (fecal material/ingesta) POE (point-of-entry) violations in four separate establishments, including one establishment that had repetitive violations during this month (December, 2012), as well as earlier this calendar year.”
Australia is not the only country exporting meat to the United States that is operating a privatized inspection system, and is not the only exporting country with food safety problems. In 2012, there was a recall in the United States for 2.5 million pounds of Canadian beef products that were potentially contaminated with E. coli 0157:H7 produced using a privatized inspection system that the USDA had secretly recognized in 2006.
“U.S. consumers should not be endangered by unsafe imports from Australia or from any other country exporting to the United States,” said Hauter. “It is time for USDA to revoke the equivalency determinations of privatized meat inspection schemes, and to abandon its attempts to privatize inspection here in the United States.”
Food & Water Watch's letter can be found at: http://documents.foodandwaterwatch.org/doc/AU_meat_equivalent_USDA_letter.pdf.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)