Unverferth Announces Intent to Purchase Blu-Jet Products
Unverferth Manufacturing Co., Inc. announces the intent to purchase the Blu-Jet equipment assets including the wide variety of fertilizer application and tillage products from Thurston Manufacturing Company, Thurston, NE.
"Blu-Jet products will expand our current offerings in fertilizer application and tillage products and bring a wider variety of quality implements to offer agricultural producers and suppliers across North America", states Larry Unverferth, President. "As with other lines we have brought into the Unverferth product family, we envision continuing with the Blu-Jet brand and its strong heritage that has been built and nurtured by the Jensen family since 1971".
Upon successful completion of the sale, manufacturing will begin being relocated to the company's other manufacturing locations, once a planned integration of the Blu-Jet lines can occur.
Wilkerson joins Nebraska Corn Board as director of market development
Jeff Wilkerson is NCB's director of market developmentThe Nebraska Corn Board is pleased to announce the hiring of Jeff Wilkerson as its director of market development. Wilkerson began his role on July 1.
In this role, Wilkerson will work on behalf of the state’s corn farmers to contribute to the mission of the Nebraska corn checkoff, which is to promote the value of corn by creating opportunities. Wilkerson will work with corn farmers and industry partners to coordinate all facets of the Nebraska Corn Board’s market development efforts. He will foster and build relationships with local, national and international partners to strengthen demand for Nebraska’s corn and value-added products, such as biofuels, distillers grains and livestock products.
“Along with research, education and promotion, market development is one of the four key pillars of the Nebraska corn checkoff,” said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board. “Jeff’s background and previous experience make him well-suited to lead our market development efforts. While global trade deals continue to be negotiated and as we’re seeing some positive news in the ethanol industry with the expansion of E15 sales, Jeff will certainly have his work cut out for him, and I know he’ll be able to hit the ground running.”
A native of Coleridge, Nebraska, Wilkerson graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Prior to joining the Nebraska Corn Board, Jeff spent nine years in the broadcast industry. He spent seven of those years as the host of UNL’s “Market Journal” television program. Most recently, Jeff managed communications with UNL’s Office of Research and Economic Development.
“I’ve always greatly admired and appreciated what our state’s checkoff programs have done to improve Nebraska’s number one industry,” said Wilkerson. “I am excited to join the Nebraska Corn staff and work for our state’s corn farmers to ensure long-term sustainability and profitability of agricultural production.”
Wilkerson replaces Roger Berry who served in the position since October 2015. Berry was named the administrator of the Nebraska Ethanol Board in May.
ACE to host newly appointed USGC CEO at annual conference
The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) welcomes Ryan LeGrand, newly appointed President and CEO of the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), as a keynote speaker during its 32nd annual conference taking place August 14-16 at the Omaha Marriott Downtown at the Capitol District.
“Increasing the global use and trade of U.S. ethanol continues to be a commitment of the U.S. Grains Council and is even more critical for the U.S. ethanol industry and farmers given the difficulties they are facing at home with profit margins and abroad with market access roadblocks,” LeGrand said. “I look forward to addressing the markets we’re working to open around the world and the ones we’re working to defend at ACE’s annual conference.”
“One market the Council is working to open for U.S. ethanol is Mexico,” LeGrand added. “Having been in the trenches with ACE’s Ron Lamberty to educate Mexican petroleum marketers and equipment suppliers as Mexico’s fuel sector evolves, I’ll provide an in-depth update on our progress in the country the last few years.”
LeGrand served as the director of the USGC’s Mexico City office since 2016. In this capacity, he has overseen the expansion of the USGC’s programming in that country to include ethanol promotion and worked to steady relations during the negotiations of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
“Given the extra attention on export markets and trade policy this year, we’re pleased to have USGC leadership join us to provide an update and answer questions for farmers, ethanol producers, and other conference attendees about the opportunities and challenges to increase ethanol and coproduct markets around the world,” said Ron Lamberty, ACE Senior Vice President. “Working alongside Ryan and his team over the last two years, as they build the foundation for U.S. ethanol market expansion in Mexico makes me confident he will do a great job leading the USGC and we look forward to hearing his perspective after his first few months in this role.”
LeGrand’s trade keynote address will follow Governor Ricketts’ welcome and an update from ACE leadership during the August 15 morning general session. Later in the agenda, attendees will get a more in-depth update of the ethanol promotion efforts in Mexico, by hearing firsthand from USGC representatives in the Mexico office ACE has worked with to help introduce ethanol into the fuels’ discussion in the country. Stay tuned for more information.
More event and agenda details are available at ethanol.org/events/conference.
Beatrice biodiesel plant to close
After a three-year run of producing fuel, the biodiesel plant in Beatrice is winding down operations.
Flint Hills Resources announced Monday that the company plans to idle its Duonix biodiesel plant in Beatrice.
The plant is expected to cease production this month and will remain idle indefinitely, according to a statement from Flint Hills resources.
The Beatrice Duonix plant specializes in processing corn oil and greases into biodiesel. Low soybean prices, the primary feedstock for most other biodiesel producers, have put the Duonix plant at a “significant competitive disadvantage” and the company does not expect those conditions to change.
The statement added that government intervention in the marketplace, including the federal blenders tax credit, continues to create uncertainty for the business.
Michael Wilhelmi, community relations specialists with Flint Hills Resources, said the company invested more than $100 million into retrofitting the plant.
“Our intention is to idle the facility indefinitely and are working directly with each employee,” he said. “Folks should know the workforce did everything they could to make plant work, but economic headwinds were too strong.”
Employees affected by the idling of the plant, there are fewer than 40 current employees, will be offered severance packages.
The plant was originally built in 2008, but wasn't initially finished and never operated.
The plant was initially constructed at a cost of $50 million, then sent to auction and purchased for $5 million.
Duonix Beatrice, a joint venture between Flint Hills Resources, which is a subsidiary of Koch Industries Inc. and Benefuel Inc., purchased the plant in 2011 and started production five years later.
Biodiesel can be used in most diesel engines, especially newer ones. The fuel has about 90 percent of the energy traditional diesel does, but comes with less sulfur, resulting in less buildup and fewer injector issues.
Regarding the plant’s future, Wilhelmi said the company is exploring all its options.
'Financial Impairment on the Farm' Webinar Offered
I-29 Moo University and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will host a Financial Impairment on the Farm webinar from 12-1 p.m. on July 30. The webinar is free and open to all those involved in production agriculture, specifically, producers and agribusiness personnel.
The program will focus on issues producers face during times of financial impairment with emphasis placed on mediation, reorganization options and Chapter 12 Bankruptcy.
Donald Swanson, an attorney with Koley Jessen in Omaha, and Kristine Tidgren, director of the Center for Agricultural Law and Taxation and an adjunct assistant professor at Iowa State University, will facilitate the discussion.
"Don Swanson has devoted his career to helping clients with financial impairment, bankruptcy issues and mediation, and Kristine Tidgren works with these issues every day," said Fred M. Hall, dairy specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. "The program will be informational and answer questions for many local ag producers and businesses alike."
There is no fee to participate in the webinar; however, online pre-registration is required. After registering, information on accessing the webinar will be provided.
The webinar will also be archived for viewing at a later date. For more information on this and other programs, contact Fred M. Hall at 712-737-4230 or fredhall@iastate.edu.
Iowa Farm and Rural Life Poll Shows Conservation Increasing, but Rented Land Remains a Barrier
As the percentage of rented farmland in Iowa continues to grow, farmers are seeing a steady shift in who is responsible for what happens on the land.
According to the “2018 Iowa Farm and Rural Life Poll,” (SOC 3090) a publication of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, 46% of respondents said that they rented farmland in 2017, up from 45% in 2013, the last time they were asked this question. On average, those who responded rented 431 acres in 2017, compared to 392 acres in 2013.
The statement, “if conservation practices are needed on the land I rent, it is my responsibility,” received 72% agreement in the 2018 poll, slightly higher than the 67% who agreed in 2008. Conversely, 29% agreed in the 2018 poll, that conservation practices are the landlord’s responsibility, down from 38% in 2008.
“Together, these results indicate that tenants perceive an increase in their responsibility for conservation actions and a decline in their landlords’ responsibility. But that doesn’t mean that conservation is getting done,” said J. Arbuckle, associate professor and extension sociologist at Iowa State University, and the report’s primary author.
The most recent poll was published in May 2019, and is available through the ISU Extension Store, as is an archive of previous polls.
Known also as the “Farm Poll,” the survey has been conducted since 1982, and is the longest-running survey of its kind in the nation. Questionnaires were mailed in February 2018 to 2,151 farmers, and the response rate was 50%, with an average age of respondents of 66.
Conservation investments and rented land
Although farmers may perceive a shift in who is responsible for conservation, the poll shows they are less likely to invest in conservation on the land they rent.
Nearly half (47%) of respondents said they were less likely to spend their own money on structural conservation practices such as grassed waterways and terraces on rented land, and 42% said they would be less likely to use cover crops on rented land.
Farmers were also asked to compare their landlord’s priorities – with regard to income and land stewardship.
Some 38% said they felt their landlord placed land stewardship ahead of income, a decrease from 44% in 2008. There was a substantial decline in the number of farmers who said their landlord “requires” them to minimize impacts on soil and water quality, dropping from 46% in 2008, to 32% in 2018.
“There appears to be a feeling among farmers that landlord commitment to conservation is declining,” said Arbuckle. “Considered along with their lower likelihood to invest in structural practices or cover crops, the data suggest that conservation practice use on rented land is sub-optimal.”
Making strides
Despite the shifts in perceived responsibility for conservation on rented land, farmers reported measurable increases in their use of in-field and edge-of-field conservation practices.
Fifty percent of farmers reported no-till on at least some of the land they farm, up from 42% in 2015. Other notable results were an increases in the use of nitrogen rate calculators (18% to 26%) and in-season nitrogen application (28% to 35%).
Arbuckle said the results are encouraging, and likely reflect the efforts that farmers and agricultural stakeholders have made to help meet the goals of the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy.
He said the results show farmers still have a long way to go with conservation, but “they’re definitely making strides.”
Other topics covered in the 2018 Farm Poll summary include perceptions of quality of life and farm financial well-being, awareness of and participation in watershed management activities, and use of precision agriculture practices.
Market volatility, trade uncertainty, risk management and new opportunities top discussion at IFBF Economic Summit
More than 200 farmers gathered in downtown Des Moines for Iowa Farm Bureau’s Economic Summit to gain valuable market insight and opportunities to manage risk and find profit opportunities as farmers struggle through the sixth year of a downturned ag economy.
Governor Kim Reynolds opened the Economic Summit sharing her affinity for Iowa agriculture as a leading driver for Iowa’s economy. Governor Reynolds shared an impassioned commitment to remain a strong voice for Iowa agriculture. “Farmers exemplify tenacity, grit, and determination in the face of low commodity prices and natural disasters. I’m honored to be part of a coalition to advocate for Iowa agriculture,” she said.
“Trade was a major topic of discussion among attendees,” said Iowa Farm Bureau President Craig Hill. “With one-third of Iowa-grown soybeans and a quarter of Iowa’s hogs raised for export, international trade is critical to our farmers and Iowa’s workforce overall.”
John Hinners, Vice President of Industry Relations with the United States Meat Export Federation (USMEF), says market access with some of our largest trading partners, including Mexico, Canada, China, and several other Asian countries, face an uncertain future. “As farmers continue to increase efficiency and generate high-quality food with international demand, it’s critical they learn how to best take advantage of export opportunities to stay on course with production numbers,” Hinners said.
“Farmers are really good at what they do– producing, but we are reliant upon export markets to market what we produce,” he said. “As countries accumulate wealth, they can afford and demand more high-quality protein. We have to put priority in the Mexico and Japan markets, because we don't want to be left behind. It’s important to our next generation and our legacy.”
Debra Bauler, chief information officer with Cargill Protein and Salt, discussed how they incorporate blockchain technology in response to consumer demand for more information about their food. One example she gave focused on their signature Honeysuckle White Turkey, where consumers can scan a tag and learn about the family who raised the turkey including where it traveled before reaching their refrigerator.
“This is an exciting time, and the goal is to have a technology that solves problems, and we hope that blockchain does that,” said Bauler. “We know that consumers have more questions and want to know how and where their food is raised and who was involved in raising and marketing it. Blockchain provides a great opportunity to connect consumers and farmers.”
The passage of this year’s farm bill legalized hemp production nationally, and the Iowa legislature followed suit by passing the Iowa Hemp Act, with restrictions, in the state. Robin Pruisner, State Entomologist and Ag Security Coordinator with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), told attendees that ‘hemp is not legal in Iowa right now, though we expect it to be starting next year.’ Pruisner cautioned attendees to ‘think long and hard about something that seems too good to be true’ adding that hemp marketing greatly differs from corn and bean sales. Unlike traditional Iowa grain, which can be pre-sold and marketed, hemp growers are encouraged to secure a contract and aren’t likely to get paid until after the crop is processed.
Richard Fordyce, Administrator, UDSA, Farm Service Agency (FSA), provided an update for summit attendees on the implementation of farm bill programs. The farmers were particularly interested in the disaster relief bill and disaster recovery programs following devastating flooding this spring, although Fordyce warned there is a lot to digest, and encouraged working with local FSA officials and utilizing available farmer resources such as www.farmers.gov.
Despite the complexity of risk management programs from the farm bill, Fordyce noted Secretary Perdue’s goal to modernize the Department of Agriculture to make program updates and descriptions more easily available to farmers. By utilizing technology to host the information online, farmers can navigate programs easier to make the best decisions for their farms.
“We know many farmers are struggling right now and we hope the summit provided them with some additional tools they can use as they continue to navigate these challenging times,” said Hill.
Register Today for the Iowa Women in Agriculture Conference August 1
“Road Map to Resilience” is the theme of the 13th annual Iowa Women in Agriculture (IWIA) Conference Aug. 1st at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny.
The 2019 Conference will address a range of challenges posed by agriculture’s current economic climate: Commodity prices, marketing strategies, global trade agreements, financial risk management, ag advocacy, water quality initiatives, transition planning, resilience, and balancing family medical care with financing the family farm.
The Conference kicks off at 8:15 a.m., and concludes at 5 p.m. Julie Kenney, Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, will keynote the Conference with the State of Iowa Agriculture.
Elaine Kub, author of Mastering the Grain Markets: How Profits Are Really Made, DTN analyst and IPTV’s Market to Market commentator, will offer the challenge, New Ways of Thinking about Grain Trading. Angie Treptow, Farm Credit Services of America regional vice-president, will wrap up the morning sessions with a deep dive into lender expectations for 2020.
The afternoon’s choice of breakout sessions and presenters include:
Key Elements of Succession and Continuity Planning: How to Ensure Your Operation Will Thrive During Transition: Rena Striegel, Transition Point Business Advisors and author of Building the Ultimate Network
Laying Pavers on the Road to Resilience: Charlotte Halvorson, certified occupational health nurse and Linda Emanuel, community health nurse and Nebraska farmer, AgriSafe Network will focus on healthy coping strategies and available resources
Caring for Parents without Putting Your Farm on Life Support: Nancy Lowenberg, vice president of commercial banking relations at US Bank in Cedar Rapids and Nancy Brannaman, sixth generation farm owner and manager of her family’s farm in Illinois
The 2019 conference capstone speaker is Kim Bremmer, a farm girl, mother, science junkie and ag advocate from Loyal, Wisconsin who will inspire with her presentation, Celebrating the Real Story of Agriculture . . . and How Women Can Lead the Way!
A complimentary Wine and Cheese Welcome & Networking Reception will be held on Wednesday, July 31, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The Cellar Winery at White Oak in nearby Cambridge. Guest speaker is Rose Danaher, the Iowa County environmental specialist and an Amana, Iowa, cattle producer, who is one of two U.S. 2019 Nuffield International Farm Scholars. She’ll share her worldwide travels to study water quality in Bringing It Home: A Life-Changing Look at Global Agriculture and Water Quality.
Participants also have a unique pre-conference opportunity to attend an optional pre-conference tour on July 31, hosted by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Women in Agriculture Program. The motor coach tour begins and ends at the Courtyard Marriott at SE Creekview Drive in Ankeny, with a choice of stops at John Deere Works in Ankeny, Kemin Industries, Inc. in Des Moines, the Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor in Ames, and The Cellar at White Oak Winery in Cambridge.
Early bird registration is $50 until July 24, and $70 after that date. Registration includes the pre-conference tour, evening welcome reception, continental breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Register online in advance, by mail, or from 7:15 a.m.-8:00 a.m. on the day of the conference. (Sorry, but no registration refunds will be possible.)
For conference information, contact IWIA president Cheryl Tevis at 515-353-4425 or visit www.iowawomeninag.org for a full Conference agenda and registration details.
The premier sponsor of the 2019 Iowa Women in Agriculture Conference is Farm Credit Services of America. Additional sponsors include: Iowa Farm Bureau Federation, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Women in Ag, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Bankers Association, Iowa Corn Growers, Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, NEW Cooperative and KCoe Isom.
ASA Disappointed by Decision to Reduce Duties on Subsidized Biodiesel Imports
The American Soybean Association (ASA) would like to express the concerns of soybean farmers across the country regarding the preliminary decision by the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) to reduce existing countervailing duties on imports of unfairly subsidized biodiesel from Argentina.
Under the preliminary decision announced July 2 by DOC, countervailing duties on unfairly subsidized biodiesel imports from Argentina would be reduced significantly, while antidumping rates would remain the same. The duties were imposed in 2018 following an in-depth analysis by DOC and the International Trade Commission. Just months after the duties were imposed, Argentina requested and DOC undertook a “changed circumstances” review.
Rob Shaffer, an ASA board member and chair of the association’s Biodiesel and Infrastructure team said, “Given the administration’s strong view on addressing unfair trade practices and leveling the playing field for U.S. producers, this decision is surprising.”
Shaffer, who grows soybeans in Illinois, continued, “Biodiesel is an important, homegrown fuel source, and it makes sense that the blend requirements established by EPA are filled by domestically-produced biodiesel. Biodiesel is important to U.S. soybean farmers and also helpful to U.S. consumers.”
Over the past year, ASA farmer-leaders participated in several meetings with the Department of Commerce, including with DOC Secretary Wilbur Ross, to reiterate the impact of the subsidized imports on U.S. biodiesel producers and soybean farmers. ASA, along with the National Biodiesel Board (NBB)-led Fair Trade Coalition, emphasized that there is no material change in the export tax rate for soybeans or its depressing effect on Argentine soybean prices relative to world market prices.
An abrupt reversal on the countervailing duties on subsidized imports would add to the challenges the biodiesel industry is facing, including great uncertainty due to the lapsed tax credit and Small Refiner Exemptions issued by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that undermine the Renewable Fuel Standard.
“While we continue to feel the impacts of hardline trade negotiations, the enforcement of countervailing and anti-dumping duties on unfairly subsidized biodiesel imports has been welcome. We don’t want to see the administration back down on that front,” said Shaffer.
The current duty rates remain in place until DOC issues a final decision in the review, expected in September 2019. If finalized, the existing countervailing duty rates on Argentine biodiesel would be reduced from their current average of 72% to 10%.
Soybean farmers urge the Department of Commerce to uphold its initial determination and continue to enforce trade rules that provide a level playing field for American soybean and biodiesel producers.
Weekly Ethanol Production for 6/28/2019
According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending June 28, ethanol production averaged 1.081 million barrels per day (b/d), an increase of 8,000 b/d, or 0.7%. This is equivalent to 45.40 million gallons daily. The four-week average ethanol production rate rose 0.8% to 1.082 million b/d—the highest since December 2017. This is equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.59 billion gallons (bg).
Ethanol stocks grew 5.9% to 22.8 million barrels, a 6-week high. Stocks expanded across all PADDs except the Rocky Mountain (PADD 4) region.
There were no imports reported for the third consecutive week. (Weekly export data for ethanol is not reported simultaneously; the latest export data is as of May 2019.)
The volume of gasoline supplied edged 0.3% higher to 9.492 million b/d (398.7 million gallons per day, or 145.51 bg annualized). Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol declined 0.4% to 947,000 b/d, equivalent to 14.52 bg annualized.
Expressed as a percentage of daily gasoline demand, daily ethanol production increased to 11.39%.
U.S. Ethanol Exports Soften in May while Distillers Grains Exports Build
Ann Lewis, Research Analyst, Renewable Fuels Association
U.S. ethanol exports decreased to 99.6 million gallons (mg) in May, according to data issued by the government and analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA). This was a 34% decrease from April and the lowest volume since last September.
Canada was the top destination for the first time this year despite a 26% decline in sales at 23.1 mg of ethanol, or just under one-quarter of total May U.S. shipments. India was the second-largest destination at 14.4 mg, a 58% drop from a month earlier. Brazil imported 10.6 mg of U.S. ethanol, dropping 74% after remaining our largest customer for seven consecutive months. Other top importers included the Philippines (9.1 mg, up 20%), South Korea (9.0 mg, up 7%), Colombia (9.0 mg, up 69%), and the United Arab Emirates (7.4 mg). Year-to-date exports stood at 631.5 mg through May—19% lower than the first five months of 2018, implying an annualized export volume of 1.52 billion gallons.
May exports of undenatured fuel ethanol retreated 41% to 48.7 mg as sales to our two largest customers declined by nearly 40 mg. That said, purchases by India (14.4 mg, down 42%) and Brazil (10.6 mg, down 73%) represented half of our global market for undenatured fuel. Other key destinations were the Philippines (7.4 mg, up 179%), Colombia (5.9 mg, up 473%), and South Korea (4.6 mg, up 33%).
U.S. exports of denatured fuel ethanol declined 26% in May to 46.3 mg. This reflects a 27% decrease in sales to our northern neighbor, with shipments to Canada totaling 21.7 mg (47% of global sales). The United Arab Emirates (7.4 mg), South Korea (4.3 mg), United Kingdom (3.6 mg), and Colombia (3.1 mg) were other major markets.
U.S. exports of ethanol for non-fuel, non-beverage purposes pared back 14% to 4.7 mg. Shipments of denatured product for non-fuel applications declined from 4.1 mg in April to 341,288 gallons in May—the lowest monthly volume exported since 2011. However, exports of undenatured product were 3 mg higher than April, with 4.3 mg primarily dispersed to Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Canada.
There were no U.S. imports on record in May, according to the monthly data. Only 23.8 mg of foreign ethanol has been imported thus far in 2019, of which 88% was received from Brazil.
U.S. exports of dried distillers grains, the animal feed co-product generated by dry-mill ethanol plants, intensified in May, yielding an 11% increase and the first time in 2019 to breach one million metric tons (mt). Mexico was again the top international customer of American-made distillers grains, increasing 25% over April sales, with shipments of 228,618 mt representing a 27-month high. Turkey imported 116,247 mt following a quiet April, albeit 29% under its March draw. Other key markets were South Korea (109,639 mt, up 2%), Vietnam (91,734 mt, up 3%), and Indonesia (75,134 mt). Our top ten largest customers purchased 85% of all exported U.S. DDGS in May, while another 24 countries accounted for the remaining sales. Year-to-date exports stand at 4.39 million mt, implying an annualized export total of 10.53 million mt.
Fertilizer Prices Make Minor Moves at End of June
Retail fertilizer prices continue to be mixed, which has been the trend in recent months, according to locations tracked by DTN for the fourth week of June 2019.
Four fertilizers were lower compared to last month with none down a significant amount, which DTN considers 5% or more. DAP had an average price of $495/ton, down $2; urea $429/ton, down $1; anhydrous $584/ton, down $6; and UAN28 $269/ton, down $1.
Three fertilizers were slightly higher compared to last month, but again the move higher was fairly negligible. MAP had an average price of $531/ton, up $4; potash $392/ton, up less than a dollar; and UAN32 $318/ton, up $4.
In addition, one fertilizer was unchanged from the previous month. 10-34-0 had an average price of $487/ton.
On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.47/lb.N, anhydrous $0.36/lb.N, UAN28 $0.48/lb.N and UAN32 $0.50/lb.N.
All eight of the major fertilizer prices are now higher compared to last year. DAP is 2% higher; MAP is 5% more expensive; potash, 10-34-0 and UAN28 are all 11% higher; UAN32 is 15% more expensive; anhydrous is 16% more expensive and urea is 18% higher compared to last year.
USDA Dairy Products Production May 2019 Highlights
Total cheese output (excluding cottage cheese) was 1.10 billion pounds, 1.6 percent above May 2018 and 1.5 percent above April 2019. Italian type cheese production totaled 472 million pounds, 2.3 percent above May 2018 but 1.1 percent below April 2019. American type cheese production totaled 441 million pounds, 0.5 percent below May 2018 but 2.1 percent above April 2019. Butter production was 163 million pounds, 4.2 percent below May 2018 and 1.0 percent below April 2019.
Dry milk products (comparisons in percentage with May 2018)
Nonfat dry milk, human - 174 million pounds, up 5.0 percent.
Skim milk powder - 30.1 million pounds, down 40.2 percent.
Whey products (comparisons in percentage with May 2018)
Dry whey, total - 78.8 million pounds, down 8.2 percent.
Lactose, human and animal - 109 million pounds, up 13.8 percent.
Whey protein concentrate, total - 41.2 million pounds, down 2.8 percent.
Frozen products (comparisons in percentage with May 2018)
Ice cream, regular (hard) - 64.9 million gallons, up 0.5 percent.
Ice cream, lowfat (total) - 46.2 million gallons, up 8.8 percent.
Sherbet (hard) - 3.26 million gallons, down 7.1 percent.
Frozen yogurt (total) - 4.69 million gallons, down 4.0 percent.
Aureomycin from Zoetis Now Labeled for Bacterial Pneumonia Control in Dairy Heifers
Dairy producers can now add Aureomycin® from Zoetis to replacement heifer feed for control of bacterial pneumonia. This expanded label provides another option against costly pneumonia for veterinarians and dairy producers.
This label update recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration allows for this feed additive to be fed to dairy replacement heifers at a rate of 350 milligrams per head per day with a veterinary feed directive (VFD) from a licensed veterinarian.
“Aureomycin has been a flexible and reliable control for bacterial pneumonia [caused by Pasteurella spp. susceptible to chlortetracycline] for many years,” said Aubrey Schroeder, PhD, associate director, regulatory affairs at Zoetis. “Veterinarians and dairy producers can now use Aureomycin for this added indication in dairy replacement heifers and take advantage of a zero-day withdrawal period to help keep heifers healthy.”
Respiratory disease is one of the leading health concerns impacting dairy operations. It can reduce average daily gain of calves and heifers, which can lead to reproductive challenges, later calving ages that significantly impact profitability and decrease future milk production.1
“A VFD is required to feed rations with Aureomycin, but with a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship, this process is simple and worth that added benefit to your herd,” Dr. Schroeder said. “This update for Aureomycin has already been added to electronic VFD forms.”
Dairy producers are encouraged to contact their veterinarian for more information about Aureomycin. You also can learn more about the product here.
Do not use Aureomycin in calves to be processed for veal.
Caution: Federal law restricts medicated feed containing this veterinary feed directive (VFD) drug to use by or on the order of a licensed veterinarian.
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
Wednesday, July 3, 2019
Tuesday July 2 Ag News
Nebraska Land Values Drop 3% from 2018
Jim Jansen - Agricultural Systems Economics Extension Educator
The all-land average value in Nebraska for the year ending February 1, 2019 averaged about 3% lower than the year before, according to the Nebraska Farm Real Estate Market Highlights report released this week by the Department of Agricultural Economics. This marks five consecutive years of declining land values, accounting for a total decline of 20%. The annual survey and resulting reports are by Jim Jansen, Nebraska Extension Economist and Educator, and Jeff Stokes, Hanson-Clegg-Allen Chair in Ag Banking and Finance.
The state average was $2,645 per acre or about a $75 per acre decline from the 2018 value of $2,720 per acre.
"Based on 2019 market values, the estimated total value of agricultural land and buildings in Nebraska fell to approximately $125.3 billion," notes the report. "Between 2018 and 2019, the market value decline in agricultural land and buildings totaled about $3.6 billion."
Some have compared the decline to that seen in Nebraska in the 1980s, but Jansen notes that conditions are much different now.
"This has been much more of a gradual decline," he said. "Farmers today are facing similar challenges as we did in the 1980s with low farm income," Jansen said, but how they've financed debt for land purchases and operating land credit has changed.
"As we see gradual change, it's important to understand what's happening across the state," Jansen said. The northwest (-5%), north (-4%), southwest (-5%), and south (-6%) districts saw the biggest declines in land value while northeastern (-3%, $5230), southeast (-2%), central (-2%), and east (-1%, $6185) districts saw more modest declines. The higher rates in decline ranging from 4% to 7% came from the northwest, southwest, and south districts where panel members noted restrictions in irrigation appropriations and new developments.
Panel members responding to the survey reported current crop prices, property taxes, and farm input costs as the most negative forces leading to the lower market value of land across the state. Additional economic forces placing strong negative pressure on the real estate markets included future property tax policies and the financial health of current owners.
Handling Cattle Through High Heat Humidity Indexes
Larry Howard, NE Extension Educator, Cuming County
During the summer months, livestock producers need to understand and deal with heat and humidity. They need to consider some guidelines to help them reduce additional stress on cattle during these events and incorporate some of the following practices into our management practices.
The most important is to understand the relationship between temperature and humidity in respects to the Temperature Humidity Index (THI) or Heat Index. The Cattle THI Chart (http://go.unl.edu/9gr4), will help to determine the risk level in planning cattle handling during the summer months. Producers need to be aware of the risk based on weather forecast of the heat stress.
Handling cattle early in the mornings before temperatures get too high is always recommended. Plan to handle cattle before 8:00 a.m. and never after 10:00 a.m. during summer months. Remember that the animal’s core temperature peaks approximately two hours after the environmental temperature peaks and takes four to six hours to lower back to normal temperature. With this in mind you should not think that handling cattle in the evening will reduce the risk of heat stress.
When processing cattle during high heat seasons, work cattle in smaller groups, so cattle are not standing in the holding area much longer than 30 minutes. Cattlemen should consider facilities that are shaded with good air flow to help reduce the heat. A sprinkler system may assist in cooling the area, if the water droplet size is large. Never over-crowd working facilities, work cattle slowly, and use low-stress handling techniques. Remember that processing cattle in any temperature elevates the animal’s core temperature.
Cattle movements should be short distances during hot seasons. Strategic planning on pen movements can assist in reducing unnecessary movements and potential heat stress. Moving heavier cattle closer to loading facilities throughout the feeding period can benefit in managing heat effects.
When planning or improving cattle handling and feeding facilities, cattlemen need to take into consideration air flow, shade, and sprinkler systems for cooling livestock. These considerations can help the danger of heat stress on livestock and improve feeding efficiencies during hot temperature periods.
Another important thing to remember is that compromised animals are at higher risk for heat stress. Those animals that are sick or lame are usually running higher temperatures than normal (average temperature for a beef animal is 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit), combined with hot temperature and high humidity raises their risk of heat stress. Producers will need to take extra precautions with these animals to provide additional shade and cooling.
Summer can be challenging for many cattle producers. By implementing some handling guidelines, cattlemen can reduce the risk level of heat stress and improve cattle performance. Nebraska Extension has a publication “Feedlot Heat Stress Information and Management Guide” (http://extensionpublications.unl.edu/assets/pdf/g2266.pdf) that is a good resource on dealing with heat stress.
Auction markets raise over $230,000 for Nebraska flood relief
Thirteen auction market members of the Livestock Marketing Association (LMA) hosted the sale of a roll-over auction animal earlier this spring to support Nebraska flood relief efforts. The livestock sales, which took place across Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming raised more than $230,000 worth of proceeds.
Member markets who hosted roll-over sales included Alma Livestock Auction, Alma, Neb.; Atkinson Livestock, Atkinson, Neb.; Basset Livestock, Bassett, Neb.; Beatrice 77 Livestock Sales, Beatrice, Neb.; Columbus Sales Pavilion, Columbus, Neb.; Elgin Livestock, Elgin, Neb.; Fullerton Livestock Market, Fullerton, Neb.; Huss Livestock Market LLC, Kearney, Neb.; Sheridan Livestock, Rushville, Neb.; St. Onge Livestock, St. Onge, S.D.; Torrington Livestock Market, Torrington, Wyo.; Verdigre Stockyards; Verdigre, Neb.; Wahoo Livestock Sales, Wahoo, Neb.; and West Point Stockyards, West Point, Neb.
One LMA member who hosted a roll-over benefit auction was directly affected by the floods. Lu Rieken, owner of Fullerton Livestock Market, says there was less than an hour warning before flood waters hit their business. With 4.5 feet of standing water inside the market, damage from water and debris to the market was extensive.
Despite facing damage themselves, Fullerton Livestock Market chose to participate in a roll-over auction to assist relief efforts across the state.
“Our philosophy is that it’s not how far or how hard you fall, it’s how fast you get back up,” Lu Rieken says. “We weren’t the only ones suffering. Everyone was and we wanted them to know we put them first.”
A majority of the funds raised by participating member markets were contributed to the Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund or directly to feed, fencing and hauling needs of individuals. Some markets chose to serve as pick-up sites for producers to access feed, hay and other supplies.
Pete McClymont, Executive Vice President of the Nebraska Cattlemen Association, says the contributions given to the relief fund by LMA member markets were overwhelming.
“When I see Dennis Henrichs, with Beatrice 77 Livestock Sales, enter our office with an envelope full of donations, it just about makes you cry,” McClymont says. “It makes you feel good about mankind to know people are sitting in the seats of these markets bidding, saying ‘Yes, I want to help.’”
According to McClymont, all proceeds received by the Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund will be distributed back to those who completed an application for need. The LMA also contributed $3,000 to each participating member market’s total donations raised.
Bacterial Leaf Streak of Corn in Nebraska
Tamra Jackson-Ziems, Extension Plant Pathologist
Over the past couple of weeks, bacterial leaf streak of corn has been on the rise as large portions of Nebraska experienced several days of cool, wet weather. Bacterial leaf streak (BLS) is caused by Xanthomonas vasicola pv. vasculorum. This bacterial disease has been confirmed in 74 Nebraska counties and in nine other states since 2016. BLS has been confirmed in field corn, sweet corn, seed corn, and popcorn.
Symptoms and Signs
Early diagnosis of BLS is important as symptoms can easily be confused with other diseases. This time of year, lesions are typically found on the lower leaves of the plant. Lesions may be brown, tan, or yellow in color and range in size from small flecks to streaks that can be several inches long. Margins are often jagged, wavy, and have a yellowish hue that is more pronounced when backlit by the sun. As plants mature, symptoms may develop in the mid-to-upper canopy along the midrib following a severe storm or heavy rain event. Symptoms can develop as early as in V4 corn, but have been confirmed in the seedling stage in greenhouse studies.
Scouting is important as BLS can easily be confused with gray leaf spot, a common fungal disease in corn. Compared to BLS, gray leaf spot lesions are gray and rectangular in shape with smooth, linear margins. Early symptoms can make it difficult to differentiate these two diseases. Bacterial leaf streak cannot be controlled with the fungicides used to manage fungal diseases like gray leaf spot. Accurate identification is crucial for disease management. Submit samples to a diagnostic clinic for accurate diagnosis if necessary. (The university’s Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic conducts these tests.)
Disease Cycle
Three things are required for any disease to develop:
- a virulent pathogen,
- a susceptible host, and
- the right environmental conditions.
Infested crop residue from a previous year’s crop is an excellent source of inoculum for BLS development. Residue can be moved into fields that do not have a history of this disease via equipment, floods, or wind. As corn grows, heavy rain or irrigation can splash bacteria onto the leaf surface. Bacteria may spread throughout the field via leaf rubbing, splashing, etc. Wounds are not required for disease development as bacteria likely enter through natural openings in leaves, like stomata. Favorable environmental conditions for disease development include high relative humidity, leaf wetness, severe storms, minimum tillage, or growing continuous corn.
Management
Management options for BLS in corn include rotation to a non-host crop like soybean or wheat. While crop rotation can be quite effective in managing BLS, it is important to also manage volunteer corn that can harbor the bacteria from year-to-year. Recent research has shown that certain species of weeds, native grasses, and crops also can be alternative hosts for the bacterium. In field studies, big bluestem and bristly foxtail showed symptoms of BLS at low levels. Numerous other weed, crop, and grass species were susceptible to the bacteria in greenhouse experiments and may become infected in the field under favorable conditions. Some of these alternative host species were infected without development of disease symptoms. Therefore, weed management may also be important to consider with crop rotation strategies, although the impact of these alternative host species on disease development in corn has not been determined.
Since BLS is caused by a bacterial pathogen, fungicides are not effective in managing this disease. Research on BLS management using copper-based bactericide products has been conducted, but results are inconclusive at this point. Copper-based bactericides are generally contact products that are not absorbed and moved systemically by the plant like some of the common fungicides currently in use. These bactericides do not provide residual protection and may be washed off by rain or overhead irrigation requiring reapplication that may not be economical for corn producers. In addition, these products function by preventing new infections and don’t impact bacteria already inside the plant after infection occurs.
Tillage can help break down infested crop residue and reduce inoculum levels. However, tillage may not be a viable option for every operation and it won’t completely prevent future disease development. Sanitation is another option. Cleaning off equipment between fields will help slow pathogen spread to new areas. Hybrids vary in their reaction to the disease, although disease ratings are difficult to generate and not widely available. Consult seed company representatives to help identify the hybrids best suited for your area.
CONTROLLING SUMMER WEEDS IN ALFALFA
Bruce Anderson, NE Extension Forage Specialist
Wet soils in alfalfa fields right after cutting will certainly do one thing. It helps weeds and grasses grow. Let's talk today about what you can do about these weeds.
How do you reduce the amount of foxtail, crabgrass, pigweed and other weeds in your hay? The best way to start is to keep alfalfa thick and thrifty so it will compete aggressively with invading weeds. Thick initial stands and good soil fertility are needed. In addition, harvest alfalfa only after it begins to bloom or when new shoots appear at the base of the plants. Then alfalfa should regrow rapidly so weeds don’t get much time to become a problem.
Unfortunately, this method is easier said than done, and forage quality will be lower since harvest occurs after bloom begins.
Herbicides are another option. Roundup works great for Roundup Ready varieties. For conventional alfalfa varieties, two chemicals that control annual grasses are Select Max and Poast Plus. These herbicides work well on seedling grasses that are less than 4 inches tall, and alfalfa tolerates both herbicides very well. Neither of these herbicides has any soil residual activity, so good plant coverage is necessary and you may need to repeat the spraying if new grasses emerge. For broadleaf weeds, Raptor and Pursuit are your best choices. They, too, need to be applied before weeds are 4 inches tall. Fortunately, both Raptor and Pursuit have some residual activity so you can apply them a little early and still get control of many later emerging weeds. They will, however, also set back your alfalfa just a little bit.
If weedy grasses or broadleaves are a problem in your hay, thick and vigorous alfalfa stands and some well-chosen herbicides can help you get it under control.
HERBICIDE CHALLENGES WHEN REPLANTING FOLLOWING BAD WEATHER
Crop disasters like hail, flash floods, and tornadoes can happen any time. When it strikes, replanting options may be needed.
After weather disasters strike, replanting a grain crop may be nearly impossible due to herbicide carryover or the late planting date. As a result, annual emergency forage crops might be your only choice.
Unfortunately, previous herbicide use may cause even more problems with forages. Many pre-emerge herbicides for corn and milo will injure teff, pearl millet and foxtail millet. But, sudangrass, forage sorghum, and sorghum-sudan hybrids will tolerate moderate levels of atrazine; and safened seed can be used if several other herbicides have been applied. These sorghums also tolerate most herbicides labeled for use with grain sorghum. Another possible emergency forage crop is short-season corn as silage or as late season pasture, especially if corn herbicides eliminate other possibilities.
Soybean herbicides that have residual soil activity can cause even bigger problems for replanting to forages. All summer grasses are sensitive to most soybean herbicides. Sunflowers for silage and replanted soybeans for hay or silage are among the few alternatives compatible with soybean herbicide carryover.
Even when you find out that an annual forage will grow, sometimes you may not be allowed to feed it legally. Many row crop herbicides have specific restrictions or at least lack approval for use with forages. So check out your options closely and carefully before making your selection.
Nobody likes to replant, but if you must, select a forage that is compatible with your herbicides and livestock.
Lindsay Corporation Announces Quarterly Dividend
Omaha-based Lindsay Corporation announced Monday that its Board of Directors has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.31 per share, payable August 30, 2019, to shareholders of record at the close of business on August 16, 2019.
At April 5, 2019, Lindsay Corporation had approximately 10.8 million shares outstanding, which are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol LNN.
Lindsay Corporation is a leading global manufacturer and distributor of irrigation and infrastructure equipment and technology. Established in 1955, the Company has been at the forefront of research and development of innovative solutions to meet the food, fuel, fiber and transportation needs of the world's rapidly growing population. The Lindsay family of irrigation brands includes Zimmatic center pivot and lateral move agricultural irrigation systems and FieldNET remote irrigation management and scheduling technology, as well as irrigation consulting and design and industrial IoT solutions. Also a global leader in the transportation industry, Lindsay Transportation Solutions manufactures equipment to improve road safety and keep traffic moving on the world's roads, bridges and tunnels, through the Barrier Systems, Road Zipper and Snoline brands.
Following remarks at Trump E15 RVP event in Iowa, Bosselman Enterprises COO to share E15 retail experience at ACE conference
Randy Gard, Chief Operating Officer of Bosselman Enterprises, owner of the Nebraska-based Pump & Pantry convenience store chain, will take part in a fuel retailer panel during the August 16 general session of the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) conference. Following his remarks about the company’s E15 growth on stage with President Trump at the Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy hosted event in Council Bluffs, Gard will share Bosselman’s next steps with year-round E15 finalized in front of the ACE conference audience in Omaha.
Gard is one of the retailers ACE features on its flexfuelforward.com website to connect fuel retailers with other marketers who have increased their volumes and profits by adding higher ethanol blends to their fuel slate. “In 2017, our sales of E15 increased over 300 percent. In 2018, they went up another 225 percent. And with the help of President Trump opening the door for year-round E15, our newest projections for this year show an increase of another 400 percent,” Gard shared in his remarks during President Trump’s visit to Iowa. “I want to encourage retailers to not be afraid of it. Our customers love it — and the numbers don’t lie, right?”
“Retailers have a rare opportunity to make the move to E15 and take market share,” Gard said. “We want to win based on our own strategies, not by someone else’s decisions.”
During the first summer of nation-wide approved E15 use, the 2019 ACE conference retailer panel entitled “RINs, Carbon Credits, and other E15 and Flex Fuel Marketer Math” will cover not only the long-term market growth opportunity EPA’s new E15 rule presents, but also the history and math associated with selling E15 and higher blends, like E85, including low carbon fuel credits and Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs). Mike Lewis, Co-Founder of California-based Pearson Fuels, will also join the panel moderated by ACE Senior Vice President Ron Lamberty.
“As one of the first marketers to sell E15 and E85 in Nebraska, once Bosselman realized different ways to monetize RINs, they gained a huge advantage over their competitors, and sales took off,” Lamberty said. “I’ll ask Gard about how the company has used their knowledge of RINs to gain new market share, buying directly from ethanol producers, and the roll out of their new “Boss Fuel” brand.”
“Bosselman’s ethanol use rose by almost 5 million gallons per year over the last few years,” Lamberty added. “By helping just one marketer understand the math of E85 and E15, a significant amount of new ethanol demand has been created, and that doesn’t include competitors who had to adjust to try and keep up with Pump & Pantry. Even better, ACE can continue to educate other marketers when retailers like Gard share their success stories with their peers at trade shows, workshops, and the flexfuelforward.com website.”
These discussions are an opportunity for ethanol producers and others to hear firsthand from retailers how the industry can help them sell more ethanol. Visit ethanol.org/events/conference for more event details.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture named President of MASDA
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig has been selected to serve as the 2019-2020 President of the Midwest Association of State Departments of Agriculture (MASDA). Naig accepted this position during the association’s annual meeting in Oklahoma City last week.
MASDA is comprised of the Departments of Agriculture from 13 Midwestern states including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Naig will work alongside other states’ agricultural leaders to promote and advance the industry, and support farmers and ranchers throughout the Midwest.
“MASDA is a great organization that unites leaders who represent all aspects of Midwestern agriculture,” said Naig. “I look forward to collaborating with my fellow directors, secretaries and commissioners. Our states have some unique specialties and challenges but this group provides a unified voice for farmers and ranchers. We all share common goals, like creating new markets for our producers’ products.”
Naig will host the annual MASDA meeting in Des Moines next June.
Naig was elected as Iowa’s 15th Secretary of Agriculture in November 2019. He previously served as the Deputy Secretary for the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
About the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA)
MASDA is the Midwest Regional Association of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), a nonpartisan, nonprofit association that represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries and directors in the United States.
Iowa Cattlemen Advocate for USMCA
Cattle production provides considerable contributions to Iowa’s economy, generating $3.86 billion. However, there are many challenges in the agricultural economy at this time. In order to keep farmers and young people in rural Iowa, we must have strong export markets for our products.
That is why international trade is a top priority for the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association. As a whole, export markets add over $300 to the value of each head of cattle in Iowa, and Canada and Mexico are responsible for about $70 of that total.
Iowa’s 27,000 beef producers have enjoyed the benefits of the North American Free Trade Agreement over the past 25 years. NAFTA has provided duty-free trade with Canada and Mexico which adds gross value to the cattle that producers raise, feed and market in Iowa.
Mexico is especially important because of the demand for variety meats like tongue, tripe and heart. In the U.S., these cuts are nearly worthless. By exporting them, we are able to capture much greater value.
USMCA preserves the duty-free trade we have benefited from through NAFTA, and supports other agricultural commodities, as well. At a recent roundtable discussion, former Iowa Governor and Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, stated the importance of ratifying USMCA this year. “If we extend into 2020, (the agreement) gets mixed up in presidential and Congressional politics and makes it much, much less likely to get a vote in Congress.”
If the agreement is not approved, U.S. farmers risk losing $9.4 billion in total agricultural exports annually. Of that total, $1.8 billion comes from the cattle industry and $3.2 billion is from corn and corn co-products.
“We need to get USMCA to a vote and finalized as soon as possible. ICA members have been contacting their congressional delegates and asking for positive public support,” says Matt Deppe. “Any opportunity and certainty is important in today’s ag economy. Passing USMCA very soon and moving on to a bilateral agreement with Japan is vital to our industry.”
ICA will continue to advocate for full ratification of USMCA as soon as possible, in order to benefit Iowa’s cattle industry and the agriculture sector as a whole.
Ninth Latin American Product Showcase ‘Gets Business Done’ in Puerto Rico
The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) held its ninth annual Latin American Product Showcase June 26-27 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The event attracted more than 400 people, including 190 buyers from 23 countries across the Caribbean, Central America and South America. A total of 64 USMEF exporting member companies participated, displaying and promoting U.S. beef, pork and lamb products.
The showcase was conducted with funding support from the National Pork Board (NPB), the Beef Checkoff Program, the Nebraska Beef Council, the Texas Beef Council, the United Soybean Board and Indiana Corn.
“As we close in on a full decade of organizing this event, a really significant thing to note is that not only have we been successful in bringing together exporters and importers from all over Latin America, but we’ve also created an environment that gets business done – and that makes the Latin American Product Showcase one of the most impactful things we do at USMEF to help advance trade in this region,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “You have multiple markets across Latin America that are growing quickly, and you also have markets that are fairly new. That’s another great thing you notice in two days at the showcase. You see the established customers in established markets, but you also see several emerging markets where USMEF is just starting to help grow demand for U.S. beef, pork and lamb. We were able to see both ends of the spectrum again this year, and that’s exciting.”
Puerto Rico, which hosted the Latin American Product Showcase for the first time, was a popular site, drawing a number of first-time attendees, as well as seasoned participants who have seen the event expand over the past nine years.
Veronica Leon, of Texas-based Northern Beef Industries, a regular exhibitor at the showcase, emphasized that the quality of the business contacts sets it apart from similar events.
“We have been at all nine Latin American Product Showcases and we’ve appreciated the fact that each year we see a mix of old customers, new customers and potential customers come on the show floor to meet with us,” said Leon. “At this year’s showcase, we again were able to answer questions from importers face-to-face. The quality of buyers keeps improving each year, just as the products we have to offer keep improving. This annual interaction with more and more importers allows us to update them on our company and lets us learn what meat cuts and products are in demand in each Latin American country.”
Jennifer Eck of Tyson Foods, another longtime exhibitor at the showcase, said it has been a rewarding experience to watch the event mature over the years.
“It’s become a great opportunity to see all of our existing customers over two days and meet a lot of new importers who could become our customers,” said Eck. “The great thing is that the Latin American Product Showcase continues to grow, just as the region’s interest in U.S. red meat continues to grow and the individual markets continue to grow. Again this year, it was a couple of well-spent days sharing and learning in Latin America, which has become an important strategic growth market for our company.”
First-time attendees also found the showcase to be extremely productive.
Laila Johana Pettinati from Buenos Aires, Argentina, was a first-time participant as a buyer. As buyer manager for Axionlog, an importer and wholesaler with foodservice clients in several South American countries, she found the showcase to be an excellent venue for establishing direct business relationships.
“We work in eight different countries, and our purpose for being here was to get to know red meat suppliers for our various operations,” said Pettinati. “We are dedicated to foodservice, so we have a lot of diverse needs. This venue, the way USMEF has set it up, gives us a great opportunity to make contact with a variety of U.S. beef and pork traders and manufacturers to help us with those needs.”
Representatives of producer organizations that help fund the Latin American Product Showcase were able to explore many different markets for their products and help enhance the image of U.S. agriculture.
Brady Reicks, a pork producer from New Hampton, Iowa, attending his first Latin American Product Showcase, said his goal was to learn more about the region where much of the pork he produces ends up.
“I also spent a lot of time sharing the good news about U.S. pork with the buyers and companies here from South America, Central America and the Caribbean – letting them know how we raise our hogs and how we produce a safe and quality product,” said Reicks, who was with a team from the National Pork Board. “At the same time, it’s been really interesting to see how they view pork and how they prepare and eat pork. The most interesting thing I’ve seen is a cut that keeps the pork loin and belly together. Apparently, that is a popular thing in Puerto Rico, but also in many Latin American countries that buy our product. The loin is something we struggle to move in some markets, so that was an interesting idea I saw at the showcase. That may not work on a large scale, but it shows that there are different ideas out there and foodservice operators aren’t afraid to try new things. That’s what we like to see.”
U.S. pork’s status among Latin American consumers and foodservice professionals was striking, Reicks noted.
“I had some very positive experiences talking about our products and one of the takeaways from my experience at the showcase is that it is good to know how positive the image of U.S. pork is in many of these countries,” he said.
While Halstrom and other USMEF staff in Latin America are veterans of the event, one new staff member working in an important Latin American market left his first showcase with a very positive impression.
“I’ve been to events like this in the past on behalf of other organizations, but this one really rates as something that tops all of those, mainly because of its efficiency,” said Don Mason, who has been USMEF’s representative in Colombia since September. “The idea is pretty simple: USMEF just puts buyer and seller together and lets them have conversations, share product ideas and work on getting deals done. And deals are getting done just because of this show, that’s the great thing about it. There’s a lot of value to it, not matter what side of the export-import business you are on.”
Along with two days of introductions and discussions on the showcase floor, attendees learned about global meat trade and the marketing of red meat in keynote presentations held on both days of the event.
The opening day program featured Josue Merced-Reyes, president of Inter E Marketing, who presented on reaching the millennial generation, a group that will “live, work and, most importantly, eat in a digital world.” Merced-Reyes shared advice on how food companies can convert traditional product marketing strategies to consumer-centric digital strategies. He also discussed new technologies that are affecting food business supply, distribution and retail decision-making.
On the second day, Maggie O’Quinn of Midan Marketing presented “The Nutritional, Environmental and Emotional Case for U.S. Meat: Why Our Newest Competitors Represent Our Future Opportunities.” O’Quinn encouraged the industry to anticipate the ways that tomorrow’s consumers are already redefining the meat industry. She reminded the audience that many consumers who are trying “replacement” meat are still meat eaters and the industry should not make the mistake of dismissing these consumers as a lost opportunity.
On new “fake” meats that she labels as meat industry “disruptors,” O’Quinn suggested the U.S. meat industry promote what meat has that lab-created plant-and cell-based alternatives don’t: no artificial ingredients, all natural, juicy texture and unbeatable flavor.”
“We are in the flavor business,” she pointed out. “Eating is a sensory experience designed not only to fuel our bodies but bring humans pleasure. When we focus on creating an emotional connection with consumers, we win.”
Even before this edition of the Latin American Product Showcase ended, exhibitors and attendees were already asking about the 2020 show.
“It’s gotten so popular that companies want to start planning for it and they are counting on it as part of their business strategy for the year,” said Gerardo Rodriquez, USMEF marketing director for Mexico, Central America and the Dominican Republic. “That says a lot about where we started with this showcase and what we have built it up to be, where exporters and importers from two dozen countries are excited about these two days and look forward to it.”
Elizabeth Wunderlich, USMEF Caribbean representative, reminded participants that next year’s showcase will represent the magical one-decade mark.
“In almost 10 years, we have seen it become what we had hoped it would become,” said Wunderlich. “Now we are going to do what we have done each of the previous years of the show’s existence – work to make it even better next year.”
ASA, Corteva Agriscience Seek Young Leader Applicants
The American Soybean Association (ASA) and Corteva Agriscience are seeking applicants for the 2019-20 Young Leader Program.
The Young Leader Program, sponsored by Corteva Agriscience and ASA, is a two-phase educational program for actively farming individuals and couples who are passionate about the future possibilities of agriculture. The women and men who participate in this program are the leaders who shape the future of agriculture.
“The training and interaction with fellow growers and ASA leaders this past year has been an invaluable asset to me personally, and a source of new ideas and avenues for my family farm,” Stuart Sanderson (AL), Class of ‘19 said.
Phase I of the 2019-20 Young Leader program takes place in Indianapolis, Indiana Dec. 3-6, 2019. The program continues Feb. 25–29, 2020 in San Antonio, Texas in conjunction with the annual Commodity Classic Convention and Trade Show.
“The Young Leader program has had a tremendous impact on agriculture and we are grateful to Corteva Agriscience for continuing to invest in our future leaders,” ASA President Davie Stephens said. “The program encouraged and trained many soybean farmers guiding the industry today. The Young Leader program is special because it focuses on building the grower’s potential, while helping create meaningful and lifelong relationships with growers from across the U.S. and Canada.”
Soybean grower couples and individuals are encouraged to apply for the program, which focuses on leadership and communication, the latest agricultural information and the development of a strong peer network. Spouses, even those not employed full-time on farm, are encouraged to attend and will be active participants in all elements of the program.
ASA, its 26 state affiliates, the Grain Farmers of Ontario and Corteva Agriscience will work together to identify the top producers to represent their state as part of this program.
“The young leader program cultivates agriculture advocates and has played a pivotal role in developing the next generation of engaged grower leaders for over three decades. Corteva Agriscience is proud of our longstanding collaboration with the American Soybean Association and is proud to support the young leader program,” said Matt Rekeweg, U.S. Industry Affairs Leader.
Applications are being accepted online now. Interested applicants should click here https://soygrowers.com/ for additional program information and to apply.
NBB Strongly Disagrees with Commerce's Preliminary Decision to Change Argentine Biodiesel Duty Rates
The National Biodiesel Board's (NBB) Fair Trade Coalition today criticized the U.S. Department of Commerce's preliminary decision in a "changed circumstances" review of countervailing duties on biodiesel imports from Argentina. Commerce preliminarily found that Argentina's recent changes to its export tax regime eliminated certain government subsidies provided to Argentina's biodiesel producers. If these results are made final, Commerce would reduce the existing countervailing duty rates on Argentine biodiesel from their current average of 72% to 10%.
In a companion review of the antidumping duty order, Commerce did not propose to change the antidumping duty rates that are currently in effect, which average 75%. The reduced countervailing duty rates would be applied in addition to the existing antidumping rates, resulting in a total average rate of 85%.
Kurt Kovarik, NBB's Vice President of Federal Affairs, stated, "NBB and the Fair Trade Coalition strongly disagree with Commerce's proposal to virtually eliminate countervailing duty rates on Argentine biodiesel. This appears to be an unprecedented and unjustified accommodation to Argentinian producers that threatens to harm U.S. biodiesel producers and soybean farmers. Throughout this review, NBB has made the case that Argentina continues to massively subsidize its domestic biodiesel producers. Commerce's proposal to eliminate trade protections for U.S. biodiesel producers and soybean farmers is difficult to understand at a time when the Trump administration is asking them to bear huge economic costs from trade disruptions."
Kovarik added: "The trade enforcement and protection had been a bright spot this year for U.S. biodiesel producers and soybean farmers who were negatively impacted by other trade disruptions. Despite the uncertainty created when Commerce launched this review last November, U.S. producers have stepped up to the plate and increased production nearly every month since mid-2017. We are struggling to understand why Commerce is reopening the door for subsidized biodiesel imports from Argentina."
The countervailing duty cash deposit rates will not change as a result of the preliminary decision; any rate changes would become effective with a final determination, currently due in September.
Ethanol Outlook Weak Amid Sluggish Demand
Operating margins for ethanol producers will likely remain weak for the remainder of 2019 under the weight of abundant production. Declining corn production this year will also squeeze margins and some ethanol plants will be forced to shut down or idle their production due to high corn prices or insufficient supplies.
According to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange Division, exports remain one area of optimism for ethanol producers, but that optimism is based on China’s plans to convert to E10 blend gasoline nationally by the end of 2020. In the meantime, domestic U.S. ethanol demand will likely be flat over the next two years.
“For margins to go up, supply will need to go down,” said Will Secor, economist, grain and farm supply, for CoBank. “This will be a painful process for some higher-cost producers as they look to reduce production or exit the industry. Consolidation and a slow grind to higher margins will be themes in the coming years as the industry works through changes to absorb excess production capacity.”
Ethanol plants had expanded capacity after several years of positive margins. However, margins began sliding in the summer of 2018 and plants have struggled to remain profitable since then. With stocks expected to remain above 900 million gallons through the remainder of 2019, margins are expected remain low.
One potential growth area is E15, as this fuel blend containing 15% ethanol can now be sold year-round. Some retailers will need to invest in additional infrastructure to support E15 sales and will have to weigh the costs of new pumps, tanks or other equipment against the potential profits from offering E15.
Increased demand for ethanol due to E15 will be limited in the next three years as retailers make these investments and consumer acceptance builds. Longer-term, the E15 fuel market will be able to provide stronger support to ethanol plant margins.
Persistent, low margins will also drive ethanol plants to diversify their revenue streams. “The ethanol plant of today could turn into the corn bio-refinery of tomorrow,” said Secor. “One could expect co-product offerings to expand and investments in these co-product lines to increase. These co-product investments may include equipment to produce high-protein dried distiller grain with solubles, corn oil optimization, and new buyers for carbon dioxide.”
Jim Jansen - Agricultural Systems Economics Extension Educator
The all-land average value in Nebraska for the year ending February 1, 2019 averaged about 3% lower than the year before, according to the Nebraska Farm Real Estate Market Highlights report released this week by the Department of Agricultural Economics. This marks five consecutive years of declining land values, accounting for a total decline of 20%. The annual survey and resulting reports are by Jim Jansen, Nebraska Extension Economist and Educator, and Jeff Stokes, Hanson-Clegg-Allen Chair in Ag Banking and Finance.
The state average was $2,645 per acre or about a $75 per acre decline from the 2018 value of $2,720 per acre.
"Based on 2019 market values, the estimated total value of agricultural land and buildings in Nebraska fell to approximately $125.3 billion," notes the report. "Between 2018 and 2019, the market value decline in agricultural land and buildings totaled about $3.6 billion."
Some have compared the decline to that seen in Nebraska in the 1980s, but Jansen notes that conditions are much different now.
"This has been much more of a gradual decline," he said. "Farmers today are facing similar challenges as we did in the 1980s with low farm income," Jansen said, but how they've financed debt for land purchases and operating land credit has changed.
"As we see gradual change, it's important to understand what's happening across the state," Jansen said. The northwest (-5%), north (-4%), southwest (-5%), and south (-6%) districts saw the biggest declines in land value while northeastern (-3%, $5230), southeast (-2%), central (-2%), and east (-1%, $6185) districts saw more modest declines. The higher rates in decline ranging from 4% to 7% came from the northwest, southwest, and south districts where panel members noted restrictions in irrigation appropriations and new developments.
Panel members responding to the survey reported current crop prices, property taxes, and farm input costs as the most negative forces leading to the lower market value of land across the state. Additional economic forces placing strong negative pressure on the real estate markets included future property tax policies and the financial health of current owners.
Handling Cattle Through High Heat Humidity Indexes
Larry Howard, NE Extension Educator, Cuming County
During the summer months, livestock producers need to understand and deal with heat and humidity. They need to consider some guidelines to help them reduce additional stress on cattle during these events and incorporate some of the following practices into our management practices.
The most important is to understand the relationship between temperature and humidity in respects to the Temperature Humidity Index (THI) or Heat Index. The Cattle THI Chart (http://go.unl.edu/9gr4), will help to determine the risk level in planning cattle handling during the summer months. Producers need to be aware of the risk based on weather forecast of the heat stress.
Handling cattle early in the mornings before temperatures get too high is always recommended. Plan to handle cattle before 8:00 a.m. and never after 10:00 a.m. during summer months. Remember that the animal’s core temperature peaks approximately two hours after the environmental temperature peaks and takes four to six hours to lower back to normal temperature. With this in mind you should not think that handling cattle in the evening will reduce the risk of heat stress.
When processing cattle during high heat seasons, work cattle in smaller groups, so cattle are not standing in the holding area much longer than 30 minutes. Cattlemen should consider facilities that are shaded with good air flow to help reduce the heat. A sprinkler system may assist in cooling the area, if the water droplet size is large. Never over-crowd working facilities, work cattle slowly, and use low-stress handling techniques. Remember that processing cattle in any temperature elevates the animal’s core temperature.
Cattle movements should be short distances during hot seasons. Strategic planning on pen movements can assist in reducing unnecessary movements and potential heat stress. Moving heavier cattle closer to loading facilities throughout the feeding period can benefit in managing heat effects.
When planning or improving cattle handling and feeding facilities, cattlemen need to take into consideration air flow, shade, and sprinkler systems for cooling livestock. These considerations can help the danger of heat stress on livestock and improve feeding efficiencies during hot temperature periods.
Another important thing to remember is that compromised animals are at higher risk for heat stress. Those animals that are sick or lame are usually running higher temperatures than normal (average temperature for a beef animal is 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit), combined with hot temperature and high humidity raises their risk of heat stress. Producers will need to take extra precautions with these animals to provide additional shade and cooling.
Summer can be challenging for many cattle producers. By implementing some handling guidelines, cattlemen can reduce the risk level of heat stress and improve cattle performance. Nebraska Extension has a publication “Feedlot Heat Stress Information and Management Guide” (http://extensionpublications.unl.edu/assets/pdf/g2266.pdf) that is a good resource on dealing with heat stress.
Auction markets raise over $230,000 for Nebraska flood relief
Thirteen auction market members of the Livestock Marketing Association (LMA) hosted the sale of a roll-over auction animal earlier this spring to support Nebraska flood relief efforts. The livestock sales, which took place across Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming raised more than $230,000 worth of proceeds.
Member markets who hosted roll-over sales included Alma Livestock Auction, Alma, Neb.; Atkinson Livestock, Atkinson, Neb.; Basset Livestock, Bassett, Neb.; Beatrice 77 Livestock Sales, Beatrice, Neb.; Columbus Sales Pavilion, Columbus, Neb.; Elgin Livestock, Elgin, Neb.; Fullerton Livestock Market, Fullerton, Neb.; Huss Livestock Market LLC, Kearney, Neb.; Sheridan Livestock, Rushville, Neb.; St. Onge Livestock, St. Onge, S.D.; Torrington Livestock Market, Torrington, Wyo.; Verdigre Stockyards; Verdigre, Neb.; Wahoo Livestock Sales, Wahoo, Neb.; and West Point Stockyards, West Point, Neb.
One LMA member who hosted a roll-over benefit auction was directly affected by the floods. Lu Rieken, owner of Fullerton Livestock Market, says there was less than an hour warning before flood waters hit their business. With 4.5 feet of standing water inside the market, damage from water and debris to the market was extensive.
Despite facing damage themselves, Fullerton Livestock Market chose to participate in a roll-over auction to assist relief efforts across the state.
“Our philosophy is that it’s not how far or how hard you fall, it’s how fast you get back up,” Lu Rieken says. “We weren’t the only ones suffering. Everyone was and we wanted them to know we put them first.”
A majority of the funds raised by participating member markets were contributed to the Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund or directly to feed, fencing and hauling needs of individuals. Some markets chose to serve as pick-up sites for producers to access feed, hay and other supplies.
Pete McClymont, Executive Vice President of the Nebraska Cattlemen Association, says the contributions given to the relief fund by LMA member markets were overwhelming.
“When I see Dennis Henrichs, with Beatrice 77 Livestock Sales, enter our office with an envelope full of donations, it just about makes you cry,” McClymont says. “It makes you feel good about mankind to know people are sitting in the seats of these markets bidding, saying ‘Yes, I want to help.’”
According to McClymont, all proceeds received by the Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund will be distributed back to those who completed an application for need. The LMA also contributed $3,000 to each participating member market’s total donations raised.
Bacterial Leaf Streak of Corn in Nebraska
Tamra Jackson-Ziems, Extension Plant Pathologist
Over the past couple of weeks, bacterial leaf streak of corn has been on the rise as large portions of Nebraska experienced several days of cool, wet weather. Bacterial leaf streak (BLS) is caused by Xanthomonas vasicola pv. vasculorum. This bacterial disease has been confirmed in 74 Nebraska counties and in nine other states since 2016. BLS has been confirmed in field corn, sweet corn, seed corn, and popcorn.
Symptoms and Signs
Early diagnosis of BLS is important as symptoms can easily be confused with other diseases. This time of year, lesions are typically found on the lower leaves of the plant. Lesions may be brown, tan, or yellow in color and range in size from small flecks to streaks that can be several inches long. Margins are often jagged, wavy, and have a yellowish hue that is more pronounced when backlit by the sun. As plants mature, symptoms may develop in the mid-to-upper canopy along the midrib following a severe storm or heavy rain event. Symptoms can develop as early as in V4 corn, but have been confirmed in the seedling stage in greenhouse studies.
Scouting is important as BLS can easily be confused with gray leaf spot, a common fungal disease in corn. Compared to BLS, gray leaf spot lesions are gray and rectangular in shape with smooth, linear margins. Early symptoms can make it difficult to differentiate these two diseases. Bacterial leaf streak cannot be controlled with the fungicides used to manage fungal diseases like gray leaf spot. Accurate identification is crucial for disease management. Submit samples to a diagnostic clinic for accurate diagnosis if necessary. (The university’s Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic conducts these tests.)
Disease Cycle
Three things are required for any disease to develop:
- a virulent pathogen,
- a susceptible host, and
- the right environmental conditions.
Infested crop residue from a previous year’s crop is an excellent source of inoculum for BLS development. Residue can be moved into fields that do not have a history of this disease via equipment, floods, or wind. As corn grows, heavy rain or irrigation can splash bacteria onto the leaf surface. Bacteria may spread throughout the field via leaf rubbing, splashing, etc. Wounds are not required for disease development as bacteria likely enter through natural openings in leaves, like stomata. Favorable environmental conditions for disease development include high relative humidity, leaf wetness, severe storms, minimum tillage, or growing continuous corn.
Management
Management options for BLS in corn include rotation to a non-host crop like soybean or wheat. While crop rotation can be quite effective in managing BLS, it is important to also manage volunteer corn that can harbor the bacteria from year-to-year. Recent research has shown that certain species of weeds, native grasses, and crops also can be alternative hosts for the bacterium. In field studies, big bluestem and bristly foxtail showed symptoms of BLS at low levels. Numerous other weed, crop, and grass species were susceptible to the bacteria in greenhouse experiments and may become infected in the field under favorable conditions. Some of these alternative host species were infected without development of disease symptoms. Therefore, weed management may also be important to consider with crop rotation strategies, although the impact of these alternative host species on disease development in corn has not been determined.
Since BLS is caused by a bacterial pathogen, fungicides are not effective in managing this disease. Research on BLS management using copper-based bactericide products has been conducted, but results are inconclusive at this point. Copper-based bactericides are generally contact products that are not absorbed and moved systemically by the plant like some of the common fungicides currently in use. These bactericides do not provide residual protection and may be washed off by rain or overhead irrigation requiring reapplication that may not be economical for corn producers. In addition, these products function by preventing new infections and don’t impact bacteria already inside the plant after infection occurs.
Tillage can help break down infested crop residue and reduce inoculum levels. However, tillage may not be a viable option for every operation and it won’t completely prevent future disease development. Sanitation is another option. Cleaning off equipment between fields will help slow pathogen spread to new areas. Hybrids vary in their reaction to the disease, although disease ratings are difficult to generate and not widely available. Consult seed company representatives to help identify the hybrids best suited for your area.
CONTROLLING SUMMER WEEDS IN ALFALFA
Bruce Anderson, NE Extension Forage Specialist
Wet soils in alfalfa fields right after cutting will certainly do one thing. It helps weeds and grasses grow. Let's talk today about what you can do about these weeds.
How do you reduce the amount of foxtail, crabgrass, pigweed and other weeds in your hay? The best way to start is to keep alfalfa thick and thrifty so it will compete aggressively with invading weeds. Thick initial stands and good soil fertility are needed. In addition, harvest alfalfa only after it begins to bloom or when new shoots appear at the base of the plants. Then alfalfa should regrow rapidly so weeds don’t get much time to become a problem.
Unfortunately, this method is easier said than done, and forage quality will be lower since harvest occurs after bloom begins.
Herbicides are another option. Roundup works great for Roundup Ready varieties. For conventional alfalfa varieties, two chemicals that control annual grasses are Select Max and Poast Plus. These herbicides work well on seedling grasses that are less than 4 inches tall, and alfalfa tolerates both herbicides very well. Neither of these herbicides has any soil residual activity, so good plant coverage is necessary and you may need to repeat the spraying if new grasses emerge. For broadleaf weeds, Raptor and Pursuit are your best choices. They, too, need to be applied before weeds are 4 inches tall. Fortunately, both Raptor and Pursuit have some residual activity so you can apply them a little early and still get control of many later emerging weeds. They will, however, also set back your alfalfa just a little bit.
If weedy grasses or broadleaves are a problem in your hay, thick and vigorous alfalfa stands and some well-chosen herbicides can help you get it under control.
HERBICIDE CHALLENGES WHEN REPLANTING FOLLOWING BAD WEATHER
Crop disasters like hail, flash floods, and tornadoes can happen any time. When it strikes, replanting options may be needed.
After weather disasters strike, replanting a grain crop may be nearly impossible due to herbicide carryover or the late planting date. As a result, annual emergency forage crops might be your only choice.
Unfortunately, previous herbicide use may cause even more problems with forages. Many pre-emerge herbicides for corn and milo will injure teff, pearl millet and foxtail millet. But, sudangrass, forage sorghum, and sorghum-sudan hybrids will tolerate moderate levels of atrazine; and safened seed can be used if several other herbicides have been applied. These sorghums also tolerate most herbicides labeled for use with grain sorghum. Another possible emergency forage crop is short-season corn as silage or as late season pasture, especially if corn herbicides eliminate other possibilities.
Soybean herbicides that have residual soil activity can cause even bigger problems for replanting to forages. All summer grasses are sensitive to most soybean herbicides. Sunflowers for silage and replanted soybeans for hay or silage are among the few alternatives compatible with soybean herbicide carryover.
Even when you find out that an annual forage will grow, sometimes you may not be allowed to feed it legally. Many row crop herbicides have specific restrictions or at least lack approval for use with forages. So check out your options closely and carefully before making your selection.
Nobody likes to replant, but if you must, select a forage that is compatible with your herbicides and livestock.
Lindsay Corporation Announces Quarterly Dividend
Omaha-based Lindsay Corporation announced Monday that its Board of Directors has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.31 per share, payable August 30, 2019, to shareholders of record at the close of business on August 16, 2019.
At April 5, 2019, Lindsay Corporation had approximately 10.8 million shares outstanding, which are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol LNN.
Lindsay Corporation is a leading global manufacturer and distributor of irrigation and infrastructure equipment and technology. Established in 1955, the Company has been at the forefront of research and development of innovative solutions to meet the food, fuel, fiber and transportation needs of the world's rapidly growing population. The Lindsay family of irrigation brands includes Zimmatic center pivot and lateral move agricultural irrigation systems and FieldNET remote irrigation management and scheduling technology, as well as irrigation consulting and design and industrial IoT solutions. Also a global leader in the transportation industry, Lindsay Transportation Solutions manufactures equipment to improve road safety and keep traffic moving on the world's roads, bridges and tunnels, through the Barrier Systems, Road Zipper and Snoline brands.
Following remarks at Trump E15 RVP event in Iowa, Bosselman Enterprises COO to share E15 retail experience at ACE conference
Randy Gard, Chief Operating Officer of Bosselman Enterprises, owner of the Nebraska-based Pump & Pantry convenience store chain, will take part in a fuel retailer panel during the August 16 general session of the American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) conference. Following his remarks about the company’s E15 growth on stage with President Trump at the Southwest Iowa Renewable Energy hosted event in Council Bluffs, Gard will share Bosselman’s next steps with year-round E15 finalized in front of the ACE conference audience in Omaha.
Gard is one of the retailers ACE features on its flexfuelforward.com website to connect fuel retailers with other marketers who have increased their volumes and profits by adding higher ethanol blends to their fuel slate. “In 2017, our sales of E15 increased over 300 percent. In 2018, they went up another 225 percent. And with the help of President Trump opening the door for year-round E15, our newest projections for this year show an increase of another 400 percent,” Gard shared in his remarks during President Trump’s visit to Iowa. “I want to encourage retailers to not be afraid of it. Our customers love it — and the numbers don’t lie, right?”
“Retailers have a rare opportunity to make the move to E15 and take market share,” Gard said. “We want to win based on our own strategies, not by someone else’s decisions.”
During the first summer of nation-wide approved E15 use, the 2019 ACE conference retailer panel entitled “RINs, Carbon Credits, and other E15 and Flex Fuel Marketer Math” will cover not only the long-term market growth opportunity EPA’s new E15 rule presents, but also the history and math associated with selling E15 and higher blends, like E85, including low carbon fuel credits and Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs). Mike Lewis, Co-Founder of California-based Pearson Fuels, will also join the panel moderated by ACE Senior Vice President Ron Lamberty.
“As one of the first marketers to sell E15 and E85 in Nebraska, once Bosselman realized different ways to monetize RINs, they gained a huge advantage over their competitors, and sales took off,” Lamberty said. “I’ll ask Gard about how the company has used their knowledge of RINs to gain new market share, buying directly from ethanol producers, and the roll out of their new “Boss Fuel” brand.”
“Bosselman’s ethanol use rose by almost 5 million gallons per year over the last few years,” Lamberty added. “By helping just one marketer understand the math of E85 and E15, a significant amount of new ethanol demand has been created, and that doesn’t include competitors who had to adjust to try and keep up with Pump & Pantry. Even better, ACE can continue to educate other marketers when retailers like Gard share their success stories with their peers at trade shows, workshops, and the flexfuelforward.com website.”
These discussions are an opportunity for ethanol producers and others to hear firsthand from retailers how the industry can help them sell more ethanol. Visit ethanol.org/events/conference for more event details.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture named President of MASDA
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig has been selected to serve as the 2019-2020 President of the Midwest Association of State Departments of Agriculture (MASDA). Naig accepted this position during the association’s annual meeting in Oklahoma City last week.
MASDA is comprised of the Departments of Agriculture from 13 Midwestern states including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Naig will work alongside other states’ agricultural leaders to promote and advance the industry, and support farmers and ranchers throughout the Midwest.
“MASDA is a great organization that unites leaders who represent all aspects of Midwestern agriculture,” said Naig. “I look forward to collaborating with my fellow directors, secretaries and commissioners. Our states have some unique specialties and challenges but this group provides a unified voice for farmers and ranchers. We all share common goals, like creating new markets for our producers’ products.”
Naig will host the annual MASDA meeting in Des Moines next June.
Naig was elected as Iowa’s 15th Secretary of Agriculture in November 2019. He previously served as the Deputy Secretary for the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
About the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA)
MASDA is the Midwest Regional Association of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), a nonpartisan, nonprofit association that represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries and directors in the United States.
Iowa Cattlemen Advocate for USMCA
Cattle production provides considerable contributions to Iowa’s economy, generating $3.86 billion. However, there are many challenges in the agricultural economy at this time. In order to keep farmers and young people in rural Iowa, we must have strong export markets for our products.
That is why international trade is a top priority for the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association. As a whole, export markets add over $300 to the value of each head of cattle in Iowa, and Canada and Mexico are responsible for about $70 of that total.
Iowa’s 27,000 beef producers have enjoyed the benefits of the North American Free Trade Agreement over the past 25 years. NAFTA has provided duty-free trade with Canada and Mexico which adds gross value to the cattle that producers raise, feed and market in Iowa.
Mexico is especially important because of the demand for variety meats like tongue, tripe and heart. In the U.S., these cuts are nearly worthless. By exporting them, we are able to capture much greater value.
USMCA preserves the duty-free trade we have benefited from through NAFTA, and supports other agricultural commodities, as well. At a recent roundtable discussion, former Iowa Governor and Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, stated the importance of ratifying USMCA this year. “If we extend into 2020, (the agreement) gets mixed up in presidential and Congressional politics and makes it much, much less likely to get a vote in Congress.”
If the agreement is not approved, U.S. farmers risk losing $9.4 billion in total agricultural exports annually. Of that total, $1.8 billion comes from the cattle industry and $3.2 billion is from corn and corn co-products.
“We need to get USMCA to a vote and finalized as soon as possible. ICA members have been contacting their congressional delegates and asking for positive public support,” says Matt Deppe. “Any opportunity and certainty is important in today’s ag economy. Passing USMCA very soon and moving on to a bilateral agreement with Japan is vital to our industry.”
ICA will continue to advocate for full ratification of USMCA as soon as possible, in order to benefit Iowa’s cattle industry and the agriculture sector as a whole.
Ninth Latin American Product Showcase ‘Gets Business Done’ in Puerto Rico
The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) held its ninth annual Latin American Product Showcase June 26-27 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The event attracted more than 400 people, including 190 buyers from 23 countries across the Caribbean, Central America and South America. A total of 64 USMEF exporting member companies participated, displaying and promoting U.S. beef, pork and lamb products.
The showcase was conducted with funding support from the National Pork Board (NPB), the Beef Checkoff Program, the Nebraska Beef Council, the Texas Beef Council, the United Soybean Board and Indiana Corn.
“As we close in on a full decade of organizing this event, a really significant thing to note is that not only have we been successful in bringing together exporters and importers from all over Latin America, but we’ve also created an environment that gets business done – and that makes the Latin American Product Showcase one of the most impactful things we do at USMEF to help advance trade in this region,” said USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “You have multiple markets across Latin America that are growing quickly, and you also have markets that are fairly new. That’s another great thing you notice in two days at the showcase. You see the established customers in established markets, but you also see several emerging markets where USMEF is just starting to help grow demand for U.S. beef, pork and lamb. We were able to see both ends of the spectrum again this year, and that’s exciting.”
Puerto Rico, which hosted the Latin American Product Showcase for the first time, was a popular site, drawing a number of first-time attendees, as well as seasoned participants who have seen the event expand over the past nine years.
Veronica Leon, of Texas-based Northern Beef Industries, a regular exhibitor at the showcase, emphasized that the quality of the business contacts sets it apart from similar events.
“We have been at all nine Latin American Product Showcases and we’ve appreciated the fact that each year we see a mix of old customers, new customers and potential customers come on the show floor to meet with us,” said Leon. “At this year’s showcase, we again were able to answer questions from importers face-to-face. The quality of buyers keeps improving each year, just as the products we have to offer keep improving. This annual interaction with more and more importers allows us to update them on our company and lets us learn what meat cuts and products are in demand in each Latin American country.”
Jennifer Eck of Tyson Foods, another longtime exhibitor at the showcase, said it has been a rewarding experience to watch the event mature over the years.
“It’s become a great opportunity to see all of our existing customers over two days and meet a lot of new importers who could become our customers,” said Eck. “The great thing is that the Latin American Product Showcase continues to grow, just as the region’s interest in U.S. red meat continues to grow and the individual markets continue to grow. Again this year, it was a couple of well-spent days sharing and learning in Latin America, which has become an important strategic growth market for our company.”
First-time attendees also found the showcase to be extremely productive.
Laila Johana Pettinati from Buenos Aires, Argentina, was a first-time participant as a buyer. As buyer manager for Axionlog, an importer and wholesaler with foodservice clients in several South American countries, she found the showcase to be an excellent venue for establishing direct business relationships.
“We work in eight different countries, and our purpose for being here was to get to know red meat suppliers for our various operations,” said Pettinati. “We are dedicated to foodservice, so we have a lot of diverse needs. This venue, the way USMEF has set it up, gives us a great opportunity to make contact with a variety of U.S. beef and pork traders and manufacturers to help us with those needs.”
Representatives of producer organizations that help fund the Latin American Product Showcase were able to explore many different markets for their products and help enhance the image of U.S. agriculture.
Brady Reicks, a pork producer from New Hampton, Iowa, attending his first Latin American Product Showcase, said his goal was to learn more about the region where much of the pork he produces ends up.
“I also spent a lot of time sharing the good news about U.S. pork with the buyers and companies here from South America, Central America and the Caribbean – letting them know how we raise our hogs and how we produce a safe and quality product,” said Reicks, who was with a team from the National Pork Board. “At the same time, it’s been really interesting to see how they view pork and how they prepare and eat pork. The most interesting thing I’ve seen is a cut that keeps the pork loin and belly together. Apparently, that is a popular thing in Puerto Rico, but also in many Latin American countries that buy our product. The loin is something we struggle to move in some markets, so that was an interesting idea I saw at the showcase. That may not work on a large scale, but it shows that there are different ideas out there and foodservice operators aren’t afraid to try new things. That’s what we like to see.”
U.S. pork’s status among Latin American consumers and foodservice professionals was striking, Reicks noted.
“I had some very positive experiences talking about our products and one of the takeaways from my experience at the showcase is that it is good to know how positive the image of U.S. pork is in many of these countries,” he said.
While Halstrom and other USMEF staff in Latin America are veterans of the event, one new staff member working in an important Latin American market left his first showcase with a very positive impression.
“I’ve been to events like this in the past on behalf of other organizations, but this one really rates as something that tops all of those, mainly because of its efficiency,” said Don Mason, who has been USMEF’s representative in Colombia since September. “The idea is pretty simple: USMEF just puts buyer and seller together and lets them have conversations, share product ideas and work on getting deals done. And deals are getting done just because of this show, that’s the great thing about it. There’s a lot of value to it, not matter what side of the export-import business you are on.”
Along with two days of introductions and discussions on the showcase floor, attendees learned about global meat trade and the marketing of red meat in keynote presentations held on both days of the event.
The opening day program featured Josue Merced-Reyes, president of Inter E Marketing, who presented on reaching the millennial generation, a group that will “live, work and, most importantly, eat in a digital world.” Merced-Reyes shared advice on how food companies can convert traditional product marketing strategies to consumer-centric digital strategies. He also discussed new technologies that are affecting food business supply, distribution and retail decision-making.
On the second day, Maggie O’Quinn of Midan Marketing presented “The Nutritional, Environmental and Emotional Case for U.S. Meat: Why Our Newest Competitors Represent Our Future Opportunities.” O’Quinn encouraged the industry to anticipate the ways that tomorrow’s consumers are already redefining the meat industry. She reminded the audience that many consumers who are trying “replacement” meat are still meat eaters and the industry should not make the mistake of dismissing these consumers as a lost opportunity.
On new “fake” meats that she labels as meat industry “disruptors,” O’Quinn suggested the U.S. meat industry promote what meat has that lab-created plant-and cell-based alternatives don’t: no artificial ingredients, all natural, juicy texture and unbeatable flavor.”
“We are in the flavor business,” she pointed out. “Eating is a sensory experience designed not only to fuel our bodies but bring humans pleasure. When we focus on creating an emotional connection with consumers, we win.”
Even before this edition of the Latin American Product Showcase ended, exhibitors and attendees were already asking about the 2020 show.
“It’s gotten so popular that companies want to start planning for it and they are counting on it as part of their business strategy for the year,” said Gerardo Rodriquez, USMEF marketing director for Mexico, Central America and the Dominican Republic. “That says a lot about where we started with this showcase and what we have built it up to be, where exporters and importers from two dozen countries are excited about these two days and look forward to it.”
Elizabeth Wunderlich, USMEF Caribbean representative, reminded participants that next year’s showcase will represent the magical one-decade mark.
“In almost 10 years, we have seen it become what we had hoped it would become,” said Wunderlich. “Now we are going to do what we have done each of the previous years of the show’s existence – work to make it even better next year.”
ASA, Corteva Agriscience Seek Young Leader Applicants
The American Soybean Association (ASA) and Corteva Agriscience are seeking applicants for the 2019-20 Young Leader Program.
The Young Leader Program, sponsored by Corteva Agriscience and ASA, is a two-phase educational program for actively farming individuals and couples who are passionate about the future possibilities of agriculture. The women and men who participate in this program are the leaders who shape the future of agriculture.
“The training and interaction with fellow growers and ASA leaders this past year has been an invaluable asset to me personally, and a source of new ideas and avenues for my family farm,” Stuart Sanderson (AL), Class of ‘19 said.
Phase I of the 2019-20 Young Leader program takes place in Indianapolis, Indiana Dec. 3-6, 2019. The program continues Feb. 25–29, 2020 in San Antonio, Texas in conjunction with the annual Commodity Classic Convention and Trade Show.
“The Young Leader program has had a tremendous impact on agriculture and we are grateful to Corteva Agriscience for continuing to invest in our future leaders,” ASA President Davie Stephens said. “The program encouraged and trained many soybean farmers guiding the industry today. The Young Leader program is special because it focuses on building the grower’s potential, while helping create meaningful and lifelong relationships with growers from across the U.S. and Canada.”
Soybean grower couples and individuals are encouraged to apply for the program, which focuses on leadership and communication, the latest agricultural information and the development of a strong peer network. Spouses, even those not employed full-time on farm, are encouraged to attend and will be active participants in all elements of the program.
ASA, its 26 state affiliates, the Grain Farmers of Ontario and Corteva Agriscience will work together to identify the top producers to represent their state as part of this program.
“The young leader program cultivates agriculture advocates and has played a pivotal role in developing the next generation of engaged grower leaders for over three decades. Corteva Agriscience is proud of our longstanding collaboration with the American Soybean Association and is proud to support the young leader program,” said Matt Rekeweg, U.S. Industry Affairs Leader.
Applications are being accepted online now. Interested applicants should click here https://soygrowers.com/ for additional program information and to apply.
NBB Strongly Disagrees with Commerce's Preliminary Decision to Change Argentine Biodiesel Duty Rates
The National Biodiesel Board's (NBB) Fair Trade Coalition today criticized the U.S. Department of Commerce's preliminary decision in a "changed circumstances" review of countervailing duties on biodiesel imports from Argentina. Commerce preliminarily found that Argentina's recent changes to its export tax regime eliminated certain government subsidies provided to Argentina's biodiesel producers. If these results are made final, Commerce would reduce the existing countervailing duty rates on Argentine biodiesel from their current average of 72% to 10%.
In a companion review of the antidumping duty order, Commerce did not propose to change the antidumping duty rates that are currently in effect, which average 75%. The reduced countervailing duty rates would be applied in addition to the existing antidumping rates, resulting in a total average rate of 85%.
Kurt Kovarik, NBB's Vice President of Federal Affairs, stated, "NBB and the Fair Trade Coalition strongly disagree with Commerce's proposal to virtually eliminate countervailing duty rates on Argentine biodiesel. This appears to be an unprecedented and unjustified accommodation to Argentinian producers that threatens to harm U.S. biodiesel producers and soybean farmers. Throughout this review, NBB has made the case that Argentina continues to massively subsidize its domestic biodiesel producers. Commerce's proposal to eliminate trade protections for U.S. biodiesel producers and soybean farmers is difficult to understand at a time when the Trump administration is asking them to bear huge economic costs from trade disruptions."
Kovarik added: "The trade enforcement and protection had been a bright spot this year for U.S. biodiesel producers and soybean farmers who were negatively impacted by other trade disruptions. Despite the uncertainty created when Commerce launched this review last November, U.S. producers have stepped up to the plate and increased production nearly every month since mid-2017. We are struggling to understand why Commerce is reopening the door for subsidized biodiesel imports from Argentina."
The countervailing duty cash deposit rates will not change as a result of the preliminary decision; any rate changes would become effective with a final determination, currently due in September.
Ethanol Outlook Weak Amid Sluggish Demand
Operating margins for ethanol producers will likely remain weak for the remainder of 2019 under the weight of abundant production. Declining corn production this year will also squeeze margins and some ethanol plants will be forced to shut down or idle their production due to high corn prices or insufficient supplies.
According to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange Division, exports remain one area of optimism for ethanol producers, but that optimism is based on China’s plans to convert to E10 blend gasoline nationally by the end of 2020. In the meantime, domestic U.S. ethanol demand will likely be flat over the next two years.
“For margins to go up, supply will need to go down,” said Will Secor, economist, grain and farm supply, for CoBank. “This will be a painful process for some higher-cost producers as they look to reduce production or exit the industry. Consolidation and a slow grind to higher margins will be themes in the coming years as the industry works through changes to absorb excess production capacity.”
Ethanol plants had expanded capacity after several years of positive margins. However, margins began sliding in the summer of 2018 and plants have struggled to remain profitable since then. With stocks expected to remain above 900 million gallons through the remainder of 2019, margins are expected remain low.
One potential growth area is E15, as this fuel blend containing 15% ethanol can now be sold year-round. Some retailers will need to invest in additional infrastructure to support E15 sales and will have to weigh the costs of new pumps, tanks or other equipment against the potential profits from offering E15.
Increased demand for ethanol due to E15 will be limited in the next three years as retailers make these investments and consumer acceptance builds. Longer-term, the E15 fuel market will be able to provide stronger support to ethanol plant margins.
Persistent, low margins will also drive ethanol plants to diversify their revenue streams. “The ethanol plant of today could turn into the corn bio-refinery of tomorrow,” said Secor. “One could expect co-product offerings to expand and investments in these co-product lines to increase. These co-product investments may include equipment to produce high-protein dried distiller grain with solubles, corn oil optimization, and new buyers for carbon dioxide.”
Tuesday, July 2, 2019
July 1 Crop Progress & Condition Report - NE - IA - US
NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION
For the week ending June 30, 2019, there were 5.3 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 0 percent very short, 7 short, 82 adequate, and 11 surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 0 percent very short, 4 short, 84 adequate, and 12 surplus.
Field Crops Report:
Corn condition rated 1 percent very poor, 4 poor, 21 fair, 64 good, and 10 excellent.
Soybean condition rated 1 percent very poor, 4 poor, 21 fair, 66 good, and 8 excellent. Soybeans emerged was 96 percent, near 100 last year and 98 for the five-year average.
Winter wheat condition rated 1 percent very poor, 5 poor, 21 fair, 45 good, and 28 excellent. Winter wheat headed was 98 percent, near 100 both last year and average.
Sorghum condition rated 0 percent very poor, 2 poor, 14 fair, 80 good, and 4 excellent. Sorghum planted was 97 percent, near 100 last year and 99 average. Headed was 9 percent, near 5 last year, and ahead of 2 average.
Oats condition rated 1 percent very poor, 3 poor, 19 fair, 68 good, and 9 excellent. Oats headed was 75 percent, well behind 96 last year, and behind 92 average.
Dry edible bean condition rated 2 percent very poor, 3 poor, 33 fair, 54 good, and 8 excellent. Dry edible beans planted was 95 percent. Emerged was 79 percent.
Pasture and Range Report:
Pasture and range conditions rated 1 percent very poor, 2 poor, 10 fair, 68 good, and 19 excellent.
IOWA CROP PROGRESS & CONDITION REPORT
Iowa experienced scattered storms across the State that delivered high winds and hail limiting opportunities for fieldwork during the week ending June 30, 2019, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Statewide there were 4.4 days suitable for fieldwork. Fieldwork activities included planting, harvesting hay and spraying.
Topsoil moisture condition was rated 0 percent very short, 2 percent short, 74 percent adequate and 24 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition was rated 0 percent very short, 1 percent short, 69 percent adequate and 30 percent surplus.
Corn condition improved to 64 percent good to excellent.
Soybean planting has nearly finished with 97 percent of the expected soybean crop planted. Ninety percent of the crop has emerged, over two weeks behind the 5-year average, and one percent has started to bloom. Soybean condition rated 64 percent good to excellent, also an improvement from last week.
Seventy-nine percent of the oat crop has headed, 8 days behind last year and average. Nine percent of the crop has started coloring, nearly a week behind average. Oat condition rated 64 percent good to excellent.
Eighty-three percent of the first cutting of alfalfa hay has been cut, two weeks behind average. Reports that a second cutting of alfalfa hay has also began across the State. Hay condition declined to 63 percent good to excellent.
Pasture condition rated 70 percent good to excellent. Livestock experienced some stress with the recent heat. Feedlots remain muddy, but have started to improve.
Corn Condition Estimated at 56% Good to Excellent; 92% of Intended Soybean Acres Planted
Corn and soybean conditions -- for the portion of those crops that was planted and emerged -- held steady last week, according to the latest USDA NASS Crop Progress report released Monday.
NASS has stopped reporting corn planting progress for this season. But, as of Sunday, June 30, an estimated 94% of corn that did get planted was emerged, 6 percentage points behind the five-year average of 100%. The portion of the crop that had emerged was rated 56% in good-to-excellent condition, unchanged from the previous week.
Soybean planting jumped another 7 percentage points last week to reach 92% complete as of Sunday. Progress was 7 percentage points behind the five-year average of 99%.
Nationwide, 83% of soybeans were emerged, 12 percentage points behind the average of 95%. That was an improvement from last Monday's report when soybean emergence was 20 percentage points behind average. As with corn, the nationwide condition rating for soybeans held steady last week, at 54% good to excellent.
Winter wheat heading was nearly complete at 97%. Winter wheat harvest picked up speed last week, moving ahead 15 percentage points to reach 30% complete as of Sunday. However, harvest was still considerably behind last year's 50% and the five-year average pace of 48%.
Sixty-three percent of the winter wheat remaining in fields was rated in good-to-excellent condition, up 2 percentage points from 61% the previous week. That was considerably better than last year's good-to-excellent rating of 37% at the same time last year.
Twenty-five percent of the spring wheat crop was headed, up 18 percentage points from the previous week. However, heading was still well behind last year's 55% and the five-year average of 52%. Spring wheat condition for the portion of the crop that was emerged was rated 75% good to excellent, unchanged from the previous week.
Sorghum was 94% planted, compared to 98% last year and a five-year average of 96%. Twenty percent of sorghum was headed, just 3 percentage points behind the five-year average of 23%. Oats were 58% headed, behind the average of 81%.
Cotton squaring reached 37% as of Sunday, slightly behind of the average pace of 39%. Cotton setting bolls was 7%, also slightly behind the average of 9%. Ten percent of rice was headed, behind the average of 15%.
For the week ending June 30, 2019, there were 5.3 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 0 percent very short, 7 short, 82 adequate, and 11 surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 0 percent very short, 4 short, 84 adequate, and 12 surplus.
Field Crops Report:
Corn condition rated 1 percent very poor, 4 poor, 21 fair, 64 good, and 10 excellent.
Soybean condition rated 1 percent very poor, 4 poor, 21 fair, 66 good, and 8 excellent. Soybeans emerged was 96 percent, near 100 last year and 98 for the five-year average.
Winter wheat condition rated 1 percent very poor, 5 poor, 21 fair, 45 good, and 28 excellent. Winter wheat headed was 98 percent, near 100 both last year and average.
Sorghum condition rated 0 percent very poor, 2 poor, 14 fair, 80 good, and 4 excellent. Sorghum planted was 97 percent, near 100 last year and 99 average. Headed was 9 percent, near 5 last year, and ahead of 2 average.
Oats condition rated 1 percent very poor, 3 poor, 19 fair, 68 good, and 9 excellent. Oats headed was 75 percent, well behind 96 last year, and behind 92 average.
Dry edible bean condition rated 2 percent very poor, 3 poor, 33 fair, 54 good, and 8 excellent. Dry edible beans planted was 95 percent. Emerged was 79 percent.
Pasture and Range Report:
Pasture and range conditions rated 1 percent very poor, 2 poor, 10 fair, 68 good, and 19 excellent.
IOWA CROP PROGRESS & CONDITION REPORT
Iowa experienced scattered storms across the State that delivered high winds and hail limiting opportunities for fieldwork during the week ending June 30, 2019, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Statewide there were 4.4 days suitable for fieldwork. Fieldwork activities included planting, harvesting hay and spraying.
Topsoil moisture condition was rated 0 percent very short, 2 percent short, 74 percent adequate and 24 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition was rated 0 percent very short, 1 percent short, 69 percent adequate and 30 percent surplus.
Corn condition improved to 64 percent good to excellent.
Soybean planting has nearly finished with 97 percent of the expected soybean crop planted. Ninety percent of the crop has emerged, over two weeks behind the 5-year average, and one percent has started to bloom. Soybean condition rated 64 percent good to excellent, also an improvement from last week.
Seventy-nine percent of the oat crop has headed, 8 days behind last year and average. Nine percent of the crop has started coloring, nearly a week behind average. Oat condition rated 64 percent good to excellent.
Eighty-three percent of the first cutting of alfalfa hay has been cut, two weeks behind average. Reports that a second cutting of alfalfa hay has also began across the State. Hay condition declined to 63 percent good to excellent.
Pasture condition rated 70 percent good to excellent. Livestock experienced some stress with the recent heat. Feedlots remain muddy, but have started to improve.
Corn Condition Estimated at 56% Good to Excellent; 92% of Intended Soybean Acres Planted
Corn and soybean conditions -- for the portion of those crops that was planted and emerged -- held steady last week, according to the latest USDA NASS Crop Progress report released Monday.
NASS has stopped reporting corn planting progress for this season. But, as of Sunday, June 30, an estimated 94% of corn that did get planted was emerged, 6 percentage points behind the five-year average of 100%. The portion of the crop that had emerged was rated 56% in good-to-excellent condition, unchanged from the previous week.
Soybean planting jumped another 7 percentage points last week to reach 92% complete as of Sunday. Progress was 7 percentage points behind the five-year average of 99%.
Nationwide, 83% of soybeans were emerged, 12 percentage points behind the average of 95%. That was an improvement from last Monday's report when soybean emergence was 20 percentage points behind average. As with corn, the nationwide condition rating for soybeans held steady last week, at 54% good to excellent.
Winter wheat heading was nearly complete at 97%. Winter wheat harvest picked up speed last week, moving ahead 15 percentage points to reach 30% complete as of Sunday. However, harvest was still considerably behind last year's 50% and the five-year average pace of 48%.
Sixty-three percent of the winter wheat remaining in fields was rated in good-to-excellent condition, up 2 percentage points from 61% the previous week. That was considerably better than last year's good-to-excellent rating of 37% at the same time last year.
Twenty-five percent of the spring wheat crop was headed, up 18 percentage points from the previous week. However, heading was still well behind last year's 55% and the five-year average of 52%. Spring wheat condition for the portion of the crop that was emerged was rated 75% good to excellent, unchanged from the previous week.
Sorghum was 94% planted, compared to 98% last year and a five-year average of 96%. Twenty percent of sorghum was headed, just 3 percentage points behind the five-year average of 23%. Oats were 58% headed, behind the average of 81%.
Cotton squaring reached 37% as of Sunday, slightly behind of the average pace of 39%. Cotton setting bolls was 7%, also slightly behind the average of 9%. Ten percent of rice was headed, behind the average of 15%.
Monday July 1 Ag News
Plans in motion to protect West Point and Battle Creek from flooding
As the area continues to recover from the March flood events, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors is looking into possible solutions for communities for the future. One of the LENRD’s 12 responsibilities includes flood prevention and control as well as prevention of damages from flood water and sediment.
The City of West Point has an interlocal agreement with the LENRD to move forward with a preliminary study and design of a flood control levee.
LENRD Projects Manager, Curt Becker, said, “We’ve been working with the City of West Point in the development of this flood-control project for the last few years. We are to the next step. The levee will allow for optimal flood reduction in times of torrential rainfall.”
The LENRD Board voted to approve 50% of the costs of the West Point Levee Improvement Project design and permitting up to $494,760.00. The district’s share would be $247,380.00. This is part of the $1.7 million project that was approved by the LENRD in July of 2017.
The City of Battle Creek approached the LENRD board this spring, asking if the potential flood-control projects that were deemed feasible in 2014 could be revisited. The 2 reservoirs that have been proposed for the area, south of Battle Creek, are a 160-acre pool for approximately $17 million and a 1,200-acre pool for $36 million. Battle Creek’s City Council met on May 13th and voted to explore options for a 1,200-acre flood-control reservoir on the south side of Battle Creek.
The LENRD Board voted to move ahead with the process of securing funding for a flood-control project at their May meeting, and to file a letter of intent with FEMA/NEMA for flood protection for Battle Creek. The board also voted to direct staff to contract with consulting firms to prepare all the necessary documentation and complete a grant application to the USDA Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations program.
LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, said, “There are multiple benefits to think about when considering a project of this size. First and foremost is flood reduction. Along with that comes the benefits of recharge and retiming as well as recreation.” Sousek continued, “This is just the first of many steps in this process.”
The Village of Snyder is seeking a location for a new Public Water Supply Well. The LENRD has a program that provides $5,000 in financial assistance for the construction and development of a test-well that is used to determine the pumping capacity of a proposed well, along with an evaluation of water quality. The information from the test well is then utilized in the design and location of the production well. As a condition of granting the financial assistance, the Village of Snyder will grant the LENRD access to the test-well for future groundwater monitoring purposes. The board voted to direct staff to make payment to the Village of Snyder upon receipt of the documentation of the completion of the test-well.
In other action, the board directed staff to send non-compliance notification letters containing a July 22, 2019 deadline, to farm operators in the Phase 2 and Phase 3 Management Areas who have not submitted annual reports the district. Notices to irrigators who have not submitted end-of-season flow meter readings from the 2018 pumping season for active irrigation wells will also be sent.
The board also held a Public Hearing to receive testimony on proposed changes to the LENRD’s Groundwater Management Area Rules and Regulations.
LENRD Assistant General Manager, Brian Bruckner, said, “The proposed changes include amendments to Rule 1, which would add language outlining additional penalties when enforcing the plan’s rules and regulations, inclusion of some definitions for terms that relate to current groundwater management strategies, and other changes to integrate management components that are included in the recently adopted Integrated Management Plan.”
A complete summary of the proposed changes is available at the LENRD office in Norfolk and on the district’s website. The board will review the testimony and approve the changes at their July meeting.
The next LENRD board meeting will be Thursday, July 25th at 7:30 p.m. at the LENRD office at 1508 Square Turn Boulevard in Norfolk. Stay connected with the LENRD by subscribing to their monthly emails at www.lenrd.org.
Japanese Beetles Emerging; Scout Corn and Soybean Fields
Justin McMechan - NE Extension Crop Protection and Cropping Systems Specialist
Japanese beetle adults are beginning to emerge in eastern Nebraska. Their distribution has been increasing in Nebraska the last few years and they are being seen in corn and soybeans more frequently, in addition to feeding on landscape trees and shrubs. They will continue to emerge for the next few weeks. First identified in counties along the state's eastern border several years ago, the beetles were found as far west as Lincoln County in 2016.
Japanese beetles have one generation per year. They often feed in clusters due to an attraction to the female sex pheromone and an attraction to volatile chemicals produced by damaged plants.
Japanese beetles (Popillia japonica Newman) can contribute to defoliation in soybeans, along with a complex of other insects, such as bean leaf beetles, grasshoppers, and several caterpillar species. They feed by skeletonizing the leaves, leaving only the leaf veins. They feed primarily in the upper canopy, making the damage very visible. In soybeans insecticide treatment is recommended when insects are present and damage is expected to exceed 30% defoliation in vegetative stage and 20% in reproductive stage soybeans. For more information see Managing Soybean Defoliators, NebGuide G2259.
Similar to corn rootworm beetles, Japanese beetles will scrape off the green surface tissue on corn leaves before silks emerge, but prefer silks once they are available. Japanese beetles feed on corn silks, and may interfere with pollination if abundant enough to severely clip silks before pollination. University of Illinois Extension recommends: "An insecticidal treatment should be considered during the silking period if:
- there are three or more Japanese beetles per ear,
- silks have been clipped to less than ½ inch, AND
- pollination is less than 50% complete."
Be aware that Japanese beetle numbers are often highest on field margins, so scout across the whole field before making a treatment decision. Japanese beetle adults are about ½ inch long and have a metallic green head and thorax. A key characteristic is a series of white tufts of hair on each side of the abdomen.
A variety of insecticides labelled on corn and soybeans would be expected to provide control of Japanese beetles. See product labels or the Insecticides for Field Crops section from Nebraska Extension EC130 for rates and restrictions.
In some cases people have mistaken the Japanese beetle for its look-alike, the false Japanese beetle, or sand chafer, Strigoderma arboricola, which is a native Nebraska insect found across most of the state. Sand chafers are commonly found along the Platte River valley and other river valleys in Nebraska. False Japanese beetle adults are about the same size as Japanese beetles, but do not have a metallic green head. They may vary in color from coppery brown to black. They may have some white hairs on the side of the abdomen but they are not organized into tufts of hair.
Sand chafers are often noticed because they have a habit of landing on people and seem to be attracted to people wearing light-colored clothing. They have not been reported to cause economic damage to crops as adults, although the immature white grub has been reported to cause damage to potato tubers.
Roger Elmore Retiring from Career in Ag Research, Extension
Longtime CropWatch contributor Roger Elmore will retire June 30 after 38 years of teaching, research and extension work — more than 29 years of which he served at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
The Nebraska Extension cropping systems specialist, Heuermann Chair, and Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute Faculty Fellow has spent his entire career addressing agronomic issues relevant to the immediate needs of crop producers.
“Roger has been a tremendous resource on crop management decisions for Nebraska producers and their advisors, and really for growers across the country,” said Richard Ferguson, professor of agronomy and horticulture and vice chancellor of RICA. “His expertise will be greatly missed!”
Elmore’s most significant research contributions have centered on evaluating corn growth and yield response to extreme weather events. He has been able to engage diverse groups based on this research with high-impact extension programming. He also co-led a cover crop research project for five years supported by the Nebraska Soybean Board and the Nebraska Corn Board.
When asked about his time at Nebraska, Elmore quickly refers to his time with colleagues in research and extension and how much he will miss it. “It’s a team atmosphere here and I’ve always been a team player,” Elmore said.
“I have loved doing research and serving the people of Nebraska,” Elmore said. “I always say I get paid to talk with people and be an extrovert.”
Elmore is a Fellow of the American Society of Agronomy and of the Crop Science Society of America. He received the Agronomic Education and Extension Award from the American Society of Agronomy in 2017. He was also recognized in 2018 for his dedication and outstanding service to the South Central Agricultural Laboratory.
ICON Held 14th Annual Meeting & Convention
The Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska (ICON) held their annual meeting in Broken Bow on Friday, June 21 with renowned speakers, food, comedy and fund raising at the Cobblestone Hotel which was well attended.
The afternoon kicked off with a silent auction to benefit the Jim Hanna Memorial Scholarship ($1,500.00 was raised) and ICON’s annual business meeting which was followed by three speakers. First was Rick Leonard, legal council for the Legislature’s Agricultural Committee.
Next, Brian O’Shaughnessy, CEO at Revere Copper and vice –chair of the board at the Coalition for a Prosperous America. O’Shaughnessy’s speech was thoughtful and focused on foreign trade policies which have been so destructive for many of the nations' most important industries.
Then Michael B.Yanney, prominent Omaha businessman and philanthropist, as he discussed his lengthy career and the problems he believe must be addressed to keep Nebraska on the cutting edge of future economic development and opportunities.
ICON was organized in 2005 to fight for positive change for the cow-sector of the ag economy. The organization has had significant success through the years at both the federal and state level, fighting for Nebraska's leading industry, cattle and beef.
ICON president, Jim Dinklage, talked about how ICON is pushing for Country Of Origin Labeling (COOL) on all meat. According to Dinklage, the USDA approves the meat that is being commercially sold and inspected, but it does not require that meat have the origin where it was raised. ICON wants to change that.
“All this imported meat does not have to follow the same rules that we have. So I think that we need to have a label that states that the beef is born, raised, fed, and slaughtered in the United States and make it very distinctive from any meat that is imported,” said Dinklage.
Another issue discussed at the ICON meeting that is threatening the beef industry is “fake meat.” Fake meat, veggie patties, imitation meat, faux meat, and many other names given to the plant based replica has begun to be more popular throughout the U.S.
This fake meat is often labeled as meat while containing no animal by products. Recently in national news, fake meat products have been found to be more processed and contain more additives than real meat. This is part of the reason Dinklage and ICON are pushing to separate real meat and fake meat with labeling.
“The future of our beef business in Nebraska is probably under assault right now with fake meat,” said Dinklage. “We need to do something on our label and make it illegal for them to use the word meat or burgers on it because it also confuses the consumer.”
Following the afternoon of discussions and speakers, the evening finished up with dinner and cocktails. Humorist and cowboy poet R.P. Smith entertained those in attendance to conclude the 14th Annual ICON Meeting and Convention.
ACE conference breakout sessions explore key industry issues
The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) 32nd annual conference coming up August 14-16 in Omaha offers a variety of breakout sessions covering the latest in technology innovations, strategic planning advice, and ways to make ethanol plants more profitable. The breakout sessions will be held concurrently in three rounds on the afternoon of Thursday, August 15, following the morning general session panels.
“Our conference theme is ‘What it Takes,’ a nod to our members’ incredible resolve and dedication in always improving operations and performance,” said Shannon Gustafson, ACE Senior Director of Operations and Programming. “This year’s breakout sessions will explore a variety of technologies, strategies, and practices that can help producers take this industry to the next level.”
Breakout sessions include:
- Improving Profitability in Challenging Market Conditions — Whitefox Technologies
Data and case studies on how membrane technology improves overall efficiency of existing distillation/dehydration, combining the benefits of mole sieve and membrane technology
- Overcoming the Margin Squeeze: Strategies to Manage Your Plant’s Cost of Capital — Christianson PLLP
Board-level goal-setting and how this process affects capital investments and financing choices
- Energy Savings, Improved CI Scores, and Your Bottom Line — Saola Energy and TotalGen Services
Options to improve a plant’s Carbon Intensity score and overall energy efficiency
- Preventing a Budget Blowout: Natural Gas Market Dynamics and Risk Management Strategies for Natural Gas Procurement — Encore Energy Services
Supply and demand market factors impacting the natural gas market and risk management approaches
- Understanding the Value of Protein at Your Facility — Fluid Quip Technologies and ICM Inc.
Pros and cons of new technologies and the opportunities in a high protein feed market
- How Biorefineries Can Achieve Success by Adopting Focused Strategies — ICM Inc.
Ideas for industry leaders to stay relevant and successful in a changing market
- Talent Development Solutions for the 21st Century — K·Coe Isom
Assess and address the efficacy of your organization’s HR and talent development systems
- Alternatives for Traditional Cleaning Methods Utilized in Fuel Ethanol Production — U.S. Water
Alternative cleaning solutions to improve yield, with the potential to reduce chemical costs
- Becoming Multilingual: The Art of Communication — Wired Within
Discover the various methods of communication based on personality and choices
To learn more about these sessions and others, visit ethanol.org/events/conference.
National FFA Organization Names 2019 New Century Farmers
This summer, 36 FFA members have been selected to participate in the 2019 New Century Farmer conference in Indianapolis. This exclusive, highly competitive program develops young men and women committed to pursuing a career in production agriculture.
Participants will take part in an intensive seminar July 7-12 and hear from industry experts during a series of workshops and sessions. New Century Farmers will learn ways to overcome common challenges faced by farmers and how they can grow personally and professionally. They will also learn how to profit from value-added products, how to utilized emerging technology, and how to network with other agriculturists.
Corteva AgriScience™, Case IH, CHS Foundation, Farm Credit, Nutrien Ag Solutions and media partner Successful Farming sponsor the New Century Farmer conference. The program is designed to provide participants with valuable skills and knowledge applicable to their farm/ranch operations. In addition, participants build a network of colleagues to access throughout their careers.
The 2019 New Century Farmers include:
Nebraska - Hannah Borg, Allen
The National FFA Organization provides leadership, personal growth and career success training through agricultural education to 669,989 student members who belong to one of 8,630 local FFA chapters throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The organization is also supported by 459,514 alumni members in 2,236 alumni chapters throughout the U.S.
Nebraska’s NRDs Celebrate 47 Years of Protecting Natural Resources
July 2019 marks 47 years of protecting lives, property and the future of natural resources for Nebraska’s 23 Natural Resources Districts (NRDs). NRDs are unique because they are governed by locally elected boards and Nebraska is the only state to have this system.
Senator Maurice Kremer introduced and the Nebraska Legislature enacted Legislative Bill (LB) 1357 in 1969 to combine Nebraska’s 154 special purpose entities into 24 Natural Resources Districts by July 1972. The original 24 NRDs’ boundaries were organized based on Nebraska’s major river basins which allows for better management practices to be applied to similar topography. In 1989, the Middle Missouri NRD and the Papio NRD were merged into one, becoming the Papio-Missouri River NRD which resulted in the current 23-NRD system.
“Nebraska’s 23 NRDs have been addressing natural resources issues and concerns with local solutions for 47 years,” said Mike Sousek, General Manager of the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) in Norfolk.
Nebraska's NRDs are involved in a wide variety of projects and programs to conserve and protect the state's natural resources. Sousek added, “NRDs are charged under state law with 12 areas of responsibility including flood control, soil erosion, and groundwater management. While all NRDs share the 12 main responsibilities, each district sets its own priorities and develops programs to best serve local needs and to protect Nebraska’s natural resources for future generations.”
Iowa Learning Farms July Webinar Shares Progress Toward Water Quality Goals
Iowa Learning Farms will host a webinar on Wednesday, July 17 at 12 p.m. about the progress toward Iowa’s water quality goals.
How many acres of cover crops are planted each year in Iowa? Are extended rotations and perennials increasing? Laurie Nowatzke, measurement coordinator for the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy at Iowa State University, will discuss the progress and challenges of Iowa’s water quality improvement efforts by addressing these questions and others. Find out how progress is measured, where to find the data and what questions remain about Iowa’s water quality improvement.
“Water quality challenges are on the minds of many Iowans. In this webinar, I hope to shed light on where we’re currently seeing progress in conservation practice adoption and where there are still challenges,” said Nowatzke, who works for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to evaluate Iowa’s progress in meeting water quality goals, research Iowa farmers’ conservation practice adoption, and track statewide use of water quality improvement practices in agriculture. She hopes that webinar attendees will understand how conservation practice adoption in Iowa is tracked, the “bright spots” and challenges of water quality progress, and where to find data and information about Iowa’s water quality improvement efforts.
A Certified Crop Adviser board approved continuing education unit (CEU) is available for those who are able to watch the live webinar. Information for submitting your CCA/CPAg/CPSS/CPSC number to earn the credit will be provided at the end of the presentation.
To watch, go to www.iowalearningfarms.org/page/webinars and click the link to join the webinar shortly before 12 p.m. on July 17, to download the Zoom software and log in option. The webinar will be recorded and archived on the ILF website for watching at any time at https://www.iowalearningfarms.org/page/webinars.
Established in 2004, Iowa Learning Farms is building a Culture of Conservation by encouraging adoption of conservation practices. Farmers, researchers and ILF team members are working together to identify and implement the best management practices that improve water quality and soil health while remaining profitable. Partners of Iowa Learning Farms include the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Iowa Natural Resources Conservation Service, Iowa Department of Natural Resources (USEPA section 319) and GROWMARK Inc.
Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production
Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 516 million bushels in May 2019. Total corn consumption was up 5 percent from April 2019 but down 2 percent from May 2018. May 2019 usage included 90.9 percent for alcohol and 9.1 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 3.33 million bushels, down 10 percent from April 2019 but up 14 percent from May 2018. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 460 million bushels, was up 4 percent from April 2019 but down 2 percent from May 2018. Corn consumed in May 2019 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 91.0 percent and 9.0 percent, respectively.
Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.94 million tons during May 2019, up 5 percent from April 2019 but down 1 percent from May 2018. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.34 million tons in May 2019, down 1 percent from April 2019 and down 4 percent from May 2018.
Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 298,347 tons during May 2019, up 1 percent from April 2019 and up 2 percent from May 2018. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 269,967 tons in May 2019, up 6 percent from April 2019 but down 4 percent from May 2018.
Fats and Oils: Oilseed Crushings, Production, Consumption and Stocks
Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 4.96 million tons (165 million bushels) in May 2019, compared with 5.15 million tons (172 million bushels) in April 2019 and 5.17 million tons (172 million bushels) in May 2018. Crude oil produced was 1.91 billion pounds down 4 percent from April 2019 and down 3 percent from May 2018. Soybean once refined oil production at 1.49 billion pounds during May 2019 increased 2 percent from April 2019 and increased 2 percent from May 2018.
Canola seeds crushed for crude oil was 133,790 tons in May 2019, compared with 162,467 tons in April 2019 and 130,921 tons in May 2018. Canola crude oil produced was 113 million pounds, down 19 percent from April 2019 and down 2 percent from May 2018. Canola once refined oil production, at 115 million pounds during May 2019, was up 11 percent from April 2019 and up 37 percent from May 2018.
Cottonseed once refined oil production, at 38.5 million pounds during May 2019, was up 9 percent from April 2019 but down 24 percent from May 2018.
Edible tallow production was 86.2 million pounds during May 2019, up 1 percent from April 2019 but down 3 percent from May 2018. Inedible tallow production was 335 million pounds during May 2019, up 9 percent from April 2019 and up 2 percent from May 2018. Technical tallow production was 113 million pounds during May 2019, up 10 percent from April 2019 and up 4 percent from May 2018. Choice white grease production, at 115 million pounds during May 2019, increased 9 percent from April 2019 and increased 1 percent from May 2018.
USDA Announces Commodity Credit Corporation Lending Rates for July 2019
USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation today announced interest rates for July 2019, which are effective July 1-July 31, 2019. The Commodity Credit Corporation borrowing rate-based charge for July is 2.125 percent, down from 2.375 percent in June.
The interest rate for crop year commodity loans less than one year disbursed during July is 3.125 percent, down from 3.375 percent in June. Interest rates for Farm Storage Facility Loans approved for July are as follows: 1.875 percent with three-year loan terms, down from 2.250 percent in June; 1.875 percent with five-year loan terms, down from 2.250 percent in June; 2.000 percent with seven-year loan terms, down from 2.375 percent in June; 2.125 percent with 10-year loan terms, down from 2,500 percent in June; and 2.250 percent with 12-year loan terms, down from 2.500 percent in June.
Registration Open For First-Ever Global Ethanol Summit
With the goal of engaging a broad array of global ethanol leaders about the benefits of expanding global ethanol use, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) announce registration is open for the first-ever Global Ethanol Summit (GES), scheduled for Oct. 13-15, 2019, in Washington, D.C.
Interested domestic ethanol industry leaders and other members of the ethanol value chain can register for the event at www.grains.org/event/ges. More than 250 ministerial-level officials and senior-level industry leaders, ethanol producers and refiners from more than 40 countries have been invited to attend.
“We are very excited to open this unique event to policy makers and ethanol users from across the globe,” said Ryan LeGrand, USGC president and chief executive officer. “The Global Ethanol Summit is a natural progression of our regional conferences and will continue to build on the momentum we have established to expand ethanol’s global use and trade over the last five years of outreach.”
The GES follows two previous regional ethanol summits – the Ethanol Summit of the Americas held in October 2017 and the Ethanol Summit of the Asia-Pacific held in May 2018. Additional funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Trade Promotion (ATP) program and other sponsors will support the expanded focus of the GES.
With informative general sessions, networking and dedicated business-to-business meetings over two days, the GES will provide attendees direct access to thought leaders on the future of global ethanol use and the opportunity to build partnerships with industry leaders.
“Ethanol has experienced unprecedented international popularity over the past two years as governments around the globe increasingly adopt it into their fuel supply to meet their economic and environmental goals,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “The Global Ethanol Summit is a valuable opportunity for attendees to forge strong trade relations and to provide foreign stakeholders with access to the expertise and lessons learned in the American ethanol context. We are proud to sponsor this summit and continue the discussion on expanding the global ethanol outlook for years to come.”
The GES will also feature a U.S. sales component that builds on current ethanol trade. For the last 10 years, ethanol has been the fastest-growing agricultural export, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA’s FAS).
“We believe the summit will lead to greater global understanding of the economic and environmental benefits of ethanol, and the important role that effective public policy and free trade play in the realization of those benefits,” said Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We are proud to be a partner with the U.S. Grains Council in this effort to educate the world about the value of renewable fuels like ethanol. We know the informational sessions and the networking opportunities will be invaluable for all of the participants involved.”
Following the Summit, the Council and its members will organize specialized tours of U.S. ethanol production facilities and terminals for international Summit attendees.
For more information on the GES or to register for the event, visit www.grains.org/event/ges,
July 4th Cookouts Costing About the Same
A cookout of Americans’ favorite foods for July 4th, including hot dogs, cheeseburgers, pork spare ribs, potato salad, baked beans, lemonade and watermelon, will cost just a few cents more this year, coming in at less than $6 per person, says the American Farm Bureau Federation.
Farm Bureau’s informal survey reveals the average cost of a summer cookout for 10 people is $52.80, or $5.28 per person. The cost for the cookout is up just 11 cents (less than 1%) from last year.
“Strong consumer demand for beef and growth in U.S. meat production has led to higher ground beef prices but lower pork spare rib prices for the 4th of July,” said AFBF Chief Economist Dr. John Newton.
AFBF’s summer cookout menu for 10 people consists of hot dogs and buns, cheeseburgers and buns, pork spare ribs, deli potato salad, baked beans, corn chips, lemonade, ketchup, mustard and watermelon for dessert.
“Pork production in 2019 continues to increase compared to year-ago levels. Increased supplies and competition in the meat case at the grocery contributed to lower spare rib prices,” Newton said.
With milk production record-high in 2019 and cheese production increasing, consumers will see lower cheese prices this grilling season.
New this year, AFBF tracked the average cost of 1.5 quarts of vanilla ice cream ($3.58). Including ice cream brings the total for the July 4th cookout to $56.38, which is still under $6 per person.
A total of 114 Farm Bureau members in 34 states served as “volunteer shoppers,” checking retail prices for July 4th cookout foods at their local grocery stores for this informal survey.
The July 4th cookout survey is part of the Farm Bureau marketbasket series, which also includes the popular annual Thanksgiving Dinner Cost Survey of common food staples Americans use to prepare meals at home.
The year-to-year direction of the marketbasket survey tracks closely with the federal government’s Consumer Price Index report for food at home. Both the index and the marketbasket remain relatively flat compared to year-ago levels.
“Through the mid-1970s, farmers received about one-third of consumer food expenditures for food eaten at home and away from home. During 2017, farmers received approximately 14.6 cents of every food marketing dollar, according to the Agriculture Department’s revised Food Dollar Series. However, after accounting for the costs of production, U.S. farmers net 7.8 cents per food dollar,” Newton said.
As online grocery shopping continues to capture consumer interest, a survey of popular online grocery services reveals the 13 items included in the AFBF July 4th survey cost more than $70, 38% higher.
As the area continues to recover from the March flood events, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors is looking into possible solutions for communities for the future. One of the LENRD’s 12 responsibilities includes flood prevention and control as well as prevention of damages from flood water and sediment.
The City of West Point has an interlocal agreement with the LENRD to move forward with a preliminary study and design of a flood control levee.
LENRD Projects Manager, Curt Becker, said, “We’ve been working with the City of West Point in the development of this flood-control project for the last few years. We are to the next step. The levee will allow for optimal flood reduction in times of torrential rainfall.”
The LENRD Board voted to approve 50% of the costs of the West Point Levee Improvement Project design and permitting up to $494,760.00. The district’s share would be $247,380.00. This is part of the $1.7 million project that was approved by the LENRD in July of 2017.
The City of Battle Creek approached the LENRD board this spring, asking if the potential flood-control projects that were deemed feasible in 2014 could be revisited. The 2 reservoirs that have been proposed for the area, south of Battle Creek, are a 160-acre pool for approximately $17 million and a 1,200-acre pool for $36 million. Battle Creek’s City Council met on May 13th and voted to explore options for a 1,200-acre flood-control reservoir on the south side of Battle Creek.
The LENRD Board voted to move ahead with the process of securing funding for a flood-control project at their May meeting, and to file a letter of intent with FEMA/NEMA for flood protection for Battle Creek. The board also voted to direct staff to contract with consulting firms to prepare all the necessary documentation and complete a grant application to the USDA Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations program.
LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, said, “There are multiple benefits to think about when considering a project of this size. First and foremost is flood reduction. Along with that comes the benefits of recharge and retiming as well as recreation.” Sousek continued, “This is just the first of many steps in this process.”
The Village of Snyder is seeking a location for a new Public Water Supply Well. The LENRD has a program that provides $5,000 in financial assistance for the construction and development of a test-well that is used to determine the pumping capacity of a proposed well, along with an evaluation of water quality. The information from the test well is then utilized in the design and location of the production well. As a condition of granting the financial assistance, the Village of Snyder will grant the LENRD access to the test-well for future groundwater monitoring purposes. The board voted to direct staff to make payment to the Village of Snyder upon receipt of the documentation of the completion of the test-well.
In other action, the board directed staff to send non-compliance notification letters containing a July 22, 2019 deadline, to farm operators in the Phase 2 and Phase 3 Management Areas who have not submitted annual reports the district. Notices to irrigators who have not submitted end-of-season flow meter readings from the 2018 pumping season for active irrigation wells will also be sent.
The board also held a Public Hearing to receive testimony on proposed changes to the LENRD’s Groundwater Management Area Rules and Regulations.
LENRD Assistant General Manager, Brian Bruckner, said, “The proposed changes include amendments to Rule 1, which would add language outlining additional penalties when enforcing the plan’s rules and regulations, inclusion of some definitions for terms that relate to current groundwater management strategies, and other changes to integrate management components that are included in the recently adopted Integrated Management Plan.”
A complete summary of the proposed changes is available at the LENRD office in Norfolk and on the district’s website. The board will review the testimony and approve the changes at their July meeting.
The next LENRD board meeting will be Thursday, July 25th at 7:30 p.m. at the LENRD office at 1508 Square Turn Boulevard in Norfolk. Stay connected with the LENRD by subscribing to their monthly emails at www.lenrd.org.
Japanese Beetles Emerging; Scout Corn and Soybean Fields
Justin McMechan - NE Extension Crop Protection and Cropping Systems Specialist
Japanese beetle adults are beginning to emerge in eastern Nebraska. Their distribution has been increasing in Nebraska the last few years and they are being seen in corn and soybeans more frequently, in addition to feeding on landscape trees and shrubs. They will continue to emerge for the next few weeks. First identified in counties along the state's eastern border several years ago, the beetles were found as far west as Lincoln County in 2016.
Japanese beetles have one generation per year. They often feed in clusters due to an attraction to the female sex pheromone and an attraction to volatile chemicals produced by damaged plants.
Japanese beetles (Popillia japonica Newman) can contribute to defoliation in soybeans, along with a complex of other insects, such as bean leaf beetles, grasshoppers, and several caterpillar species. They feed by skeletonizing the leaves, leaving only the leaf veins. They feed primarily in the upper canopy, making the damage very visible. In soybeans insecticide treatment is recommended when insects are present and damage is expected to exceed 30% defoliation in vegetative stage and 20% in reproductive stage soybeans. For more information see Managing Soybean Defoliators, NebGuide G2259.
Similar to corn rootworm beetles, Japanese beetles will scrape off the green surface tissue on corn leaves before silks emerge, but prefer silks once they are available. Japanese beetles feed on corn silks, and may interfere with pollination if abundant enough to severely clip silks before pollination. University of Illinois Extension recommends: "An insecticidal treatment should be considered during the silking period if:
- there are three or more Japanese beetles per ear,
- silks have been clipped to less than ½ inch, AND
- pollination is less than 50% complete."
Be aware that Japanese beetle numbers are often highest on field margins, so scout across the whole field before making a treatment decision. Japanese beetle adults are about ½ inch long and have a metallic green head and thorax. A key characteristic is a series of white tufts of hair on each side of the abdomen.
A variety of insecticides labelled on corn and soybeans would be expected to provide control of Japanese beetles. See product labels or the Insecticides for Field Crops section from Nebraska Extension EC130 for rates and restrictions.
In some cases people have mistaken the Japanese beetle for its look-alike, the false Japanese beetle, or sand chafer, Strigoderma arboricola, which is a native Nebraska insect found across most of the state. Sand chafers are commonly found along the Platte River valley and other river valleys in Nebraska. False Japanese beetle adults are about the same size as Japanese beetles, but do not have a metallic green head. They may vary in color from coppery brown to black. They may have some white hairs on the side of the abdomen but they are not organized into tufts of hair.
Sand chafers are often noticed because they have a habit of landing on people and seem to be attracted to people wearing light-colored clothing. They have not been reported to cause economic damage to crops as adults, although the immature white grub has been reported to cause damage to potato tubers.
Roger Elmore Retiring from Career in Ag Research, Extension
Longtime CropWatch contributor Roger Elmore will retire June 30 after 38 years of teaching, research and extension work — more than 29 years of which he served at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
The Nebraska Extension cropping systems specialist, Heuermann Chair, and Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute Faculty Fellow has spent his entire career addressing agronomic issues relevant to the immediate needs of crop producers.
“Roger has been a tremendous resource on crop management decisions for Nebraska producers and their advisors, and really for growers across the country,” said Richard Ferguson, professor of agronomy and horticulture and vice chancellor of RICA. “His expertise will be greatly missed!”
Elmore’s most significant research contributions have centered on evaluating corn growth and yield response to extreme weather events. He has been able to engage diverse groups based on this research with high-impact extension programming. He also co-led a cover crop research project for five years supported by the Nebraska Soybean Board and the Nebraska Corn Board.
When asked about his time at Nebraska, Elmore quickly refers to his time with colleagues in research and extension and how much he will miss it. “It’s a team atmosphere here and I’ve always been a team player,” Elmore said.
“I have loved doing research and serving the people of Nebraska,” Elmore said. “I always say I get paid to talk with people and be an extrovert.”
Elmore is a Fellow of the American Society of Agronomy and of the Crop Science Society of America. He received the Agronomic Education and Extension Award from the American Society of Agronomy in 2017. He was also recognized in 2018 for his dedication and outstanding service to the South Central Agricultural Laboratory.
ICON Held 14th Annual Meeting & Convention
The Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska (ICON) held their annual meeting in Broken Bow on Friday, June 21 with renowned speakers, food, comedy and fund raising at the Cobblestone Hotel which was well attended.
The afternoon kicked off with a silent auction to benefit the Jim Hanna Memorial Scholarship ($1,500.00 was raised) and ICON’s annual business meeting which was followed by three speakers. First was Rick Leonard, legal council for the Legislature’s Agricultural Committee.
Next, Brian O’Shaughnessy, CEO at Revere Copper and vice –chair of the board at the Coalition for a Prosperous America. O’Shaughnessy’s speech was thoughtful and focused on foreign trade policies which have been so destructive for many of the nations' most important industries.
Then Michael B.Yanney, prominent Omaha businessman and philanthropist, as he discussed his lengthy career and the problems he believe must be addressed to keep Nebraska on the cutting edge of future economic development and opportunities.
ICON was organized in 2005 to fight for positive change for the cow-sector of the ag economy. The organization has had significant success through the years at both the federal and state level, fighting for Nebraska's leading industry, cattle and beef.
ICON president, Jim Dinklage, talked about how ICON is pushing for Country Of Origin Labeling (COOL) on all meat. According to Dinklage, the USDA approves the meat that is being commercially sold and inspected, but it does not require that meat have the origin where it was raised. ICON wants to change that.
“All this imported meat does not have to follow the same rules that we have. So I think that we need to have a label that states that the beef is born, raised, fed, and slaughtered in the United States and make it very distinctive from any meat that is imported,” said Dinklage.
Another issue discussed at the ICON meeting that is threatening the beef industry is “fake meat.” Fake meat, veggie patties, imitation meat, faux meat, and many other names given to the plant based replica has begun to be more popular throughout the U.S.
This fake meat is often labeled as meat while containing no animal by products. Recently in national news, fake meat products have been found to be more processed and contain more additives than real meat. This is part of the reason Dinklage and ICON are pushing to separate real meat and fake meat with labeling.
“The future of our beef business in Nebraska is probably under assault right now with fake meat,” said Dinklage. “We need to do something on our label and make it illegal for them to use the word meat or burgers on it because it also confuses the consumer.”
Following the afternoon of discussions and speakers, the evening finished up with dinner and cocktails. Humorist and cowboy poet R.P. Smith entertained those in attendance to conclude the 14th Annual ICON Meeting and Convention.
ACE conference breakout sessions explore key industry issues
The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) 32nd annual conference coming up August 14-16 in Omaha offers a variety of breakout sessions covering the latest in technology innovations, strategic planning advice, and ways to make ethanol plants more profitable. The breakout sessions will be held concurrently in three rounds on the afternoon of Thursday, August 15, following the morning general session panels.
“Our conference theme is ‘What it Takes,’ a nod to our members’ incredible resolve and dedication in always improving operations and performance,” said Shannon Gustafson, ACE Senior Director of Operations and Programming. “This year’s breakout sessions will explore a variety of technologies, strategies, and practices that can help producers take this industry to the next level.”
Breakout sessions include:
- Improving Profitability in Challenging Market Conditions — Whitefox Technologies
Data and case studies on how membrane technology improves overall efficiency of existing distillation/dehydration, combining the benefits of mole sieve and membrane technology
- Overcoming the Margin Squeeze: Strategies to Manage Your Plant’s Cost of Capital — Christianson PLLP
Board-level goal-setting and how this process affects capital investments and financing choices
- Energy Savings, Improved CI Scores, and Your Bottom Line — Saola Energy and TotalGen Services
Options to improve a plant’s Carbon Intensity score and overall energy efficiency
- Preventing a Budget Blowout: Natural Gas Market Dynamics and Risk Management Strategies for Natural Gas Procurement — Encore Energy Services
Supply and demand market factors impacting the natural gas market and risk management approaches
- Understanding the Value of Protein at Your Facility — Fluid Quip Technologies and ICM Inc.
Pros and cons of new technologies and the opportunities in a high protein feed market
- How Biorefineries Can Achieve Success by Adopting Focused Strategies — ICM Inc.
Ideas for industry leaders to stay relevant and successful in a changing market
- Talent Development Solutions for the 21st Century — K·Coe Isom
Assess and address the efficacy of your organization’s HR and talent development systems
- Alternatives for Traditional Cleaning Methods Utilized in Fuel Ethanol Production — U.S. Water
Alternative cleaning solutions to improve yield, with the potential to reduce chemical costs
- Becoming Multilingual: The Art of Communication — Wired Within
Discover the various methods of communication based on personality and choices
To learn more about these sessions and others, visit ethanol.org/events/conference.
National FFA Organization Names 2019 New Century Farmers
This summer, 36 FFA members have been selected to participate in the 2019 New Century Farmer conference in Indianapolis. This exclusive, highly competitive program develops young men and women committed to pursuing a career in production agriculture.
Participants will take part in an intensive seminar July 7-12 and hear from industry experts during a series of workshops and sessions. New Century Farmers will learn ways to overcome common challenges faced by farmers and how they can grow personally and professionally. They will also learn how to profit from value-added products, how to utilized emerging technology, and how to network with other agriculturists.
Corteva AgriScience™, Case IH, CHS Foundation, Farm Credit, Nutrien Ag Solutions and media partner Successful Farming sponsor the New Century Farmer conference. The program is designed to provide participants with valuable skills and knowledge applicable to their farm/ranch operations. In addition, participants build a network of colleagues to access throughout their careers.
The 2019 New Century Farmers include:
Nebraska - Hannah Borg, Allen
The National FFA Organization provides leadership, personal growth and career success training through agricultural education to 669,989 student members who belong to one of 8,630 local FFA chapters throughout the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The organization is also supported by 459,514 alumni members in 2,236 alumni chapters throughout the U.S.
Nebraska’s NRDs Celebrate 47 Years of Protecting Natural Resources
July 2019 marks 47 years of protecting lives, property and the future of natural resources for Nebraska’s 23 Natural Resources Districts (NRDs). NRDs are unique because they are governed by locally elected boards and Nebraska is the only state to have this system.
Senator Maurice Kremer introduced and the Nebraska Legislature enacted Legislative Bill (LB) 1357 in 1969 to combine Nebraska’s 154 special purpose entities into 24 Natural Resources Districts by July 1972. The original 24 NRDs’ boundaries were organized based on Nebraska’s major river basins which allows for better management practices to be applied to similar topography. In 1989, the Middle Missouri NRD and the Papio NRD were merged into one, becoming the Papio-Missouri River NRD which resulted in the current 23-NRD system.
“Nebraska’s 23 NRDs have been addressing natural resources issues and concerns with local solutions for 47 years,” said Mike Sousek, General Manager of the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) in Norfolk.
Nebraska's NRDs are involved in a wide variety of projects and programs to conserve and protect the state's natural resources. Sousek added, “NRDs are charged under state law with 12 areas of responsibility including flood control, soil erosion, and groundwater management. While all NRDs share the 12 main responsibilities, each district sets its own priorities and develops programs to best serve local needs and to protect Nebraska’s natural resources for future generations.”
Iowa Learning Farms July Webinar Shares Progress Toward Water Quality Goals
Iowa Learning Farms will host a webinar on Wednesday, July 17 at 12 p.m. about the progress toward Iowa’s water quality goals.
How many acres of cover crops are planted each year in Iowa? Are extended rotations and perennials increasing? Laurie Nowatzke, measurement coordinator for the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy at Iowa State University, will discuss the progress and challenges of Iowa’s water quality improvement efforts by addressing these questions and others. Find out how progress is measured, where to find the data and what questions remain about Iowa’s water quality improvement.
“Water quality challenges are on the minds of many Iowans. In this webinar, I hope to shed light on where we’re currently seeing progress in conservation practice adoption and where there are still challenges,” said Nowatzke, who works for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to evaluate Iowa’s progress in meeting water quality goals, research Iowa farmers’ conservation practice adoption, and track statewide use of water quality improvement practices in agriculture. She hopes that webinar attendees will understand how conservation practice adoption in Iowa is tracked, the “bright spots” and challenges of water quality progress, and where to find data and information about Iowa’s water quality improvement efforts.
A Certified Crop Adviser board approved continuing education unit (CEU) is available for those who are able to watch the live webinar. Information for submitting your CCA/CPAg/CPSS/CPSC number to earn the credit will be provided at the end of the presentation.
To watch, go to www.iowalearningfarms.org/page/webinars and click the link to join the webinar shortly before 12 p.m. on July 17, to download the Zoom software and log in option. The webinar will be recorded and archived on the ILF website for watching at any time at https://www.iowalearningfarms.org/page/webinars.
Established in 2004, Iowa Learning Farms is building a Culture of Conservation by encouraging adoption of conservation practices. Farmers, researchers and ILF team members are working together to identify and implement the best management practices that improve water quality and soil health while remaining profitable. Partners of Iowa Learning Farms include the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture, Iowa Natural Resources Conservation Service, Iowa Department of Natural Resources (USEPA section 319) and GROWMARK Inc.
Grain Crushings and Co-Products Production
Total corn consumed for alcohol and other uses was 516 million bushels in May 2019. Total corn consumption was up 5 percent from April 2019 but down 2 percent from May 2018. May 2019 usage included 90.9 percent for alcohol and 9.1 percent for other purposes. Corn consumed for beverage alcohol totaled 3.33 million bushels, down 10 percent from April 2019 but up 14 percent from May 2018. Corn for fuel alcohol, at 460 million bushels, was up 4 percent from April 2019 but down 2 percent from May 2018. Corn consumed in May 2019 for dry milling fuel production and wet milling fuel production was 91.0 percent and 9.0 percent, respectively.
Dry mill co-product production of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) was 1.94 million tons during May 2019, up 5 percent from April 2019 but down 1 percent from May 2018. Distillers wet grains (DWG) 65 percent or more moisture was 1.34 million tons in May 2019, down 1 percent from April 2019 and down 4 percent from May 2018.
Wet mill corn gluten feed production was 298,347 tons during May 2019, up 1 percent from April 2019 and up 2 percent from May 2018. Wet corn gluten feed 40 to 60 percent moisture was 269,967 tons in May 2019, up 6 percent from April 2019 but down 4 percent from May 2018.
Fats and Oils: Oilseed Crushings, Production, Consumption and Stocks
Soybeans crushed for crude oil was 4.96 million tons (165 million bushels) in May 2019, compared with 5.15 million tons (172 million bushels) in April 2019 and 5.17 million tons (172 million bushels) in May 2018. Crude oil produced was 1.91 billion pounds down 4 percent from April 2019 and down 3 percent from May 2018. Soybean once refined oil production at 1.49 billion pounds during May 2019 increased 2 percent from April 2019 and increased 2 percent from May 2018.
Canola seeds crushed for crude oil was 133,790 tons in May 2019, compared with 162,467 tons in April 2019 and 130,921 tons in May 2018. Canola crude oil produced was 113 million pounds, down 19 percent from April 2019 and down 2 percent from May 2018. Canola once refined oil production, at 115 million pounds during May 2019, was up 11 percent from April 2019 and up 37 percent from May 2018.
Cottonseed once refined oil production, at 38.5 million pounds during May 2019, was up 9 percent from April 2019 but down 24 percent from May 2018.
Edible tallow production was 86.2 million pounds during May 2019, up 1 percent from April 2019 but down 3 percent from May 2018. Inedible tallow production was 335 million pounds during May 2019, up 9 percent from April 2019 and up 2 percent from May 2018. Technical tallow production was 113 million pounds during May 2019, up 10 percent from April 2019 and up 4 percent from May 2018. Choice white grease production, at 115 million pounds during May 2019, increased 9 percent from April 2019 and increased 1 percent from May 2018.
USDA Announces Commodity Credit Corporation Lending Rates for July 2019
USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation today announced interest rates for July 2019, which are effective July 1-July 31, 2019. The Commodity Credit Corporation borrowing rate-based charge for July is 2.125 percent, down from 2.375 percent in June.
The interest rate for crop year commodity loans less than one year disbursed during July is 3.125 percent, down from 3.375 percent in June. Interest rates for Farm Storage Facility Loans approved for July are as follows: 1.875 percent with three-year loan terms, down from 2.250 percent in June; 1.875 percent with five-year loan terms, down from 2.250 percent in June; 2.000 percent with seven-year loan terms, down from 2.375 percent in June; 2.125 percent with 10-year loan terms, down from 2,500 percent in June; and 2.250 percent with 12-year loan terms, down from 2.500 percent in June.
Registration Open For First-Ever Global Ethanol Summit
With the goal of engaging a broad array of global ethanol leaders about the benefits of expanding global ethanol use, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC), Growth Energy and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) announce registration is open for the first-ever Global Ethanol Summit (GES), scheduled for Oct. 13-15, 2019, in Washington, D.C.
Interested domestic ethanol industry leaders and other members of the ethanol value chain can register for the event at www.grains.org/event/ges. More than 250 ministerial-level officials and senior-level industry leaders, ethanol producers and refiners from more than 40 countries have been invited to attend.
“We are very excited to open this unique event to policy makers and ethanol users from across the globe,” said Ryan LeGrand, USGC president and chief executive officer. “The Global Ethanol Summit is a natural progression of our regional conferences and will continue to build on the momentum we have established to expand ethanol’s global use and trade over the last five years of outreach.”
The GES follows two previous regional ethanol summits – the Ethanol Summit of the Americas held in October 2017 and the Ethanol Summit of the Asia-Pacific held in May 2018. Additional funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Trade Promotion (ATP) program and other sponsors will support the expanded focus of the GES.
With informative general sessions, networking and dedicated business-to-business meetings over two days, the GES will provide attendees direct access to thought leaders on the future of global ethanol use and the opportunity to build partnerships with industry leaders.
“Ethanol has experienced unprecedented international popularity over the past two years as governments around the globe increasingly adopt it into their fuel supply to meet their economic and environmental goals,” said Growth Energy CEO Emily Skor. “The Global Ethanol Summit is a valuable opportunity for attendees to forge strong trade relations and to provide foreign stakeholders with access to the expertise and lessons learned in the American ethanol context. We are proud to sponsor this summit and continue the discussion on expanding the global ethanol outlook for years to come.”
The GES will also feature a U.S. sales component that builds on current ethanol trade. For the last 10 years, ethanol has been the fastest-growing agricultural export, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA’s FAS).
“We believe the summit will lead to greater global understanding of the economic and environmental benefits of ethanol, and the important role that effective public policy and free trade play in the realization of those benefits,” said Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) President and CEO Geoff Cooper. “We are proud to be a partner with the U.S. Grains Council in this effort to educate the world about the value of renewable fuels like ethanol. We know the informational sessions and the networking opportunities will be invaluable for all of the participants involved.”
Following the Summit, the Council and its members will organize specialized tours of U.S. ethanol production facilities and terminals for international Summit attendees.
For more information on the GES or to register for the event, visit www.grains.org/event/ges,
July 4th Cookouts Costing About the Same
A cookout of Americans’ favorite foods for July 4th, including hot dogs, cheeseburgers, pork spare ribs, potato salad, baked beans, lemonade and watermelon, will cost just a few cents more this year, coming in at less than $6 per person, says the American Farm Bureau Federation.
Farm Bureau’s informal survey reveals the average cost of a summer cookout for 10 people is $52.80, or $5.28 per person. The cost for the cookout is up just 11 cents (less than 1%) from last year.
“Strong consumer demand for beef and growth in U.S. meat production has led to higher ground beef prices but lower pork spare rib prices for the 4th of July,” said AFBF Chief Economist Dr. John Newton.
AFBF’s summer cookout menu for 10 people consists of hot dogs and buns, cheeseburgers and buns, pork spare ribs, deli potato salad, baked beans, corn chips, lemonade, ketchup, mustard and watermelon for dessert.
“Pork production in 2019 continues to increase compared to year-ago levels. Increased supplies and competition in the meat case at the grocery contributed to lower spare rib prices,” Newton said.
With milk production record-high in 2019 and cheese production increasing, consumers will see lower cheese prices this grilling season.
New this year, AFBF tracked the average cost of 1.5 quarts of vanilla ice cream ($3.58). Including ice cream brings the total for the July 4th cookout to $56.38, which is still under $6 per person.
A total of 114 Farm Bureau members in 34 states served as “volunteer shoppers,” checking retail prices for July 4th cookout foods at their local grocery stores for this informal survey.
The July 4th cookout survey is part of the Farm Bureau marketbasket series, which also includes the popular annual Thanksgiving Dinner Cost Survey of common food staples Americans use to prepare meals at home.
The year-to-year direction of the marketbasket survey tracks closely with the federal government’s Consumer Price Index report for food at home. Both the index and the marketbasket remain relatively flat compared to year-ago levels.
“Through the mid-1970s, farmers received about one-third of consumer food expenditures for food eaten at home and away from home. During 2017, farmers received approximately 14.6 cents of every food marketing dollar, according to the Agriculture Department’s revised Food Dollar Series. However, after accounting for the costs of production, U.S. farmers net 7.8 cents per food dollar,” Newton said.
As online grocery shopping continues to capture consumer interest, a survey of popular online grocery services reveals the 13 items included in the AFBF July 4th survey cost more than $70, 38% higher.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)