Thursday December 20 Ag News

Expect More Impacts as Nebraska Drought Rolls into Second Year

Nebraska has been at the epicenter of the drought of 2012, and its impacts will intensify if it lasts through the winter, as is forecast, say climatologists at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's National Drought Mitigation Center.

"The previous five years all had above-normal precipitation, the wettest period in recorded history," said Michael J. Hayes, the center's director.  "For Nebraska, it was unprecedented. We came into 2012 with a full hydrological system – rivers, streams, reservoirs and groundwater. When you're talking major droughts, this is not a multi-year drought. As we look ahead to 2013, we don't have that margin built into our hydrological system, so we're in pretty dire straits."

Nebraska, Colorado and Wyoming are all on track to record their driest year on record in 2012, Hayes said, and the country as a whole is having its hottest year on record.

The Climate Prediction Center says the drought in the Plains is likely to continue at least through February, and recovery will take time.

"In Nebraska and the central Plains, we've started seeing the drought feeding off itself, with the dry soils and dry air not allowing precipitation events to develop as usual," said Brian Fuchs, drought center climatologist. "With the lack of moisture, we're more like a desert environment. It warms up fairly quickly during the day, but drops quickly at night."

State climatologist Al Dutcher recently said that the chances of getting a wet enough winter to bring moisture levels back to normal are only 10 to 20 percent.

"When we do have precipitation, very little will go to runoff," Fuchs said. "Those soils are going to act as a big sponge. They're just going to take in a lot of the moisture. We'll continue to see problems of stock ponds, smaller lakes and streams dropping. The hydrologic drought hasn't reared its head, but it's there, as we are seeing more water systems under stress."

"Typically when farmers are done irrigating, you will see the water in the Platte percolate back through the basin," Fuchs said. "We did see that response but it was very minimal and that was even with the irrigation season ending sooner than usual. The channels are tiny, with these very small threads of water in eastern Nebraska."

Anecdotal evidence suggests that in some areas, groundwater levels are declining, which could affect well owners. "I would see that exponentially increasing if we stay dry in 2013," Hayes said. "There's a public health issue when homes don't have water." Although rural residents may be accustomed to hauling water occasionally, Hayes noted that it could be a real hardship for some, such as older people living alone.

Organizations that work with well owners recommend having wells checked now, especially if they were constructed before 1993, to ensure reliability of water supply.

Agricultural producers have been hit hard by the drought. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Risk Management Agency said that as of Dec. 10, indemnity payments nationwide had reached $8 billion for 2012. In 2012, 80 percent of the eligible acres nationwide and 90 to 95 percent in Nebraska enrolled in crop insurance, said Rebecca Davis, regional director for the RMA in Topeka, speaking at Nebraska's Climate Assessment and Response Committee meeting Nov. 29.  She said that Nebraska is currently the fourth largest consumer of crop insurance, and the fifth largest recipient of indemnity payments, with nearly $483 million paid out as of Nov. 19, and corn alone accounting for $363.2 million of the covered loss. By Nov. 26, total Nebraska indemnities were at $544 million, with $502 million due to drought, heat and dry wind that affected more than 2 million acres of cropland.

This year's drought is forcing producers to make hard choices. "The problem with drought and lack of forage is that many producers are using corn stalks as forage, actually baling them and selling them like hay, which is a double-edged sword," Fuchs said. "While they are using the stalks for one purpose, it could be hurting them as far as tillage conditions." Leaving stalks on the field as a cover that can prevent erosion and help hold moisture in the soil.

Nebraska had its worst fire season since 1919, with central and western Nebraska hardest-hit. Don Westover, fire program leader of the Nebraska Forest Service, reported that as of Dec. 14, the state had 1,426 wildfires reported, burning more than 400,752 acres and 65 structures, and costing $12 million so far. He added that a few large fires still unreported in the official tally would add another 94,000 acres.

For up-to-date information from Nebraska Extension about how to prepare for another drought year, see droughtresources.unl.edu.



Supplementing Feeds This Winter
Steve Tonn, UNL Extension Educator, Washington County

With winter feeding in progress many beef producers may be feeding low quality forages such as corn stalks, CRP hay, and drought damaged silage.  There may be significant variability in the nutritional composition and quality of those feeds.  Forage testing is extremely important this year to know the nutritional value and to make appropriate supplementation decisions.

Low quality forages can be used extensively to stretch higher quality feeds, provide roughage, and provide a portion of the nutrient requirements; but alone they are unlikely to meet the nutritional requirements for productive livestock over the winter.  Rations with large amounts of these forages may require energy supplementation and will almost certainly require protein supplementation.

Due to high feed prices, short feed supplies, and the use of low quality forages this winter it will be important to balance the ration to meet the protein requirements.  However, at current prices it does not make financial sense to over-feed protein.  As protein prices rise it becomes increasingly valuable to forage test and balance the ration to meet but not exceed protein requirements.  On the other hand, it makes no sense to under-feed protein.  Animals will need adequate protein to maintain body condition, maintain body temperature, and be productive.

Numerous protein sources are available including corn co-products, soybean meal, alfalfa hay, etc.  Compare your protein source on a per pound of protein basis to determine the best source for your money.  Natural protein sources work better with forages than do non-protein nitrogen sources such as urea.  Non-protein nitrogen sources such as urea must be fed with high energy diets.

As the temperature drops and the snow starts to fly producers will need to make wise feeding decisions in order to balance their rations and their check books.  The best approach is to forage test and work with nutritionists, veterinarians, Extension educators and specialists, etc. to come up with safe and nutritious rations that make sense.  With adequate planning and supplementation low quality forages can be used effectively and can be important components of rations this winter.  For a list of feed testing laboratories, contact the Washington County Extension Office in Blair.



NE Agribiz Club Jan 7th Meeting

The January 7th, 2013, 'Lunch-n-Learn' meeting for the Nebraska Agribusiness club will feature Senator Tom Carlson.  Senator Carlson will speaking about upcoming State Legislation that could affect agriculture. Carlson currently serves as chair of the state Agriculture committee, as well as serving on the Business and Labor and Natural Resources committees.

Be sure to RSVP to the meeting below or by clicking here... http://nebraskaagribusinessclub.wordpress.com/rsvp/.  The meeting will be held at the Lancaster Extension Education Center located at 444 Cherrycreek Road, Lincoln, NE. Buffet lunch will begin at 11:30 a.m., with the program starting at 12:20 p.m. Meeting registration, which includes lunch, is $10 per person (unless you have paid for the Inclusive membership).



UNL Offering Pesticide Safety Education Program Statewide Beginning January

Nebraska commercial and noncommercial pesticide applicators seeking first-time certification or recertification in 2013 to use or purchase restricted-use pesticides can get training through University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension.

The training is offered statewide from January through April, said Clyde Ogg, pesticide safety educator for UNL's Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

UNL's pesticide education office has sent commercial/noncommercial pesticide applicators with certifications expiring in April a pesticide applicator education schedule booklet that has initial certification and recertification information, as well as training schedules.

Commercial applicators are those using restricted-use pesticides, and in some cases general-use pesticides, on a contract or for-hire basis, Ogg said. Noncommercial applicators are those applying these same pesticides to sites owned by an employer or for a governmental agency or political subdivision of the state.

Farmers and ranchers classified as private applicators will have their pesticide safety education programs as scheduled by local UNL extension educators, Ogg said. For more information, they should contact their local extension office.

Commercial and noncommercial applicators interested in training can get a copy of the schedule booklet at local extension offices, by phoning UNL's pesticide education office at 800-627-7216 or 402-472-1632 or online at http://pested.unl.edu/commercialschedule.

Advance registration is required for all initial commercial/noncommercial applicator training and most other training sessions. A $60 fee applies for each applicator registering for February through April sessions, regardless of the number of categories registered for.

Required study materials for initial training range from $10 to $30 per manual, depending on category.

Recertification opportunities are available at several extension offices in February and March and at several annual conferences and trade association meetings early in 2013.

Initial certification requires passing a general standards exam and one or more specific applicator categories, Ogg said. Applicants can study by themselves, but for best results, he recommends combining the training with the study materials.

UNL conducts the training programs, and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture grants the licenses.  NDA testing is offered at initial training locations. Questions about individual applicator license status should be directed to NDA at 402-471-2351 or 877-800-4080.

The only opportunity for commercial applicators to recertify in the Agricultural Plant category and Demo/Research subcategory, other than by examination, will be at UNL Crop Production Clinics.  Crop Production Clinics begin at 8:45 a.m., local time, at the following locations [preregister on-line (http://cpc.unl.edu) or at the door]:    
Atkinson: Atkinson Community Center, 206 W. Fifth St., Jan. 15.
Beatrice: Armed Forces Reserve Center, 1400 W. Scott Rd., Jan. 17.
Fremont: Midland University Event Center, 900 N. Clarkson, Jan. 24.
Gering: Gering Civic Center, 1050 M St., Jan. 10.
Hastings: Adams County Fairgrounds, 947 S. Baltimore, Jan. 8.
Kearney: Younes Conference Center, 416 Talmadge Rd, Jan. 22.
Norfolk: Lifelong Learning Center, 601 E. Benjamin Ave, Jan. 23.
North Platte: Sandhills Convention Center, 2102 S. Jeffers, Jan. 9.
York: The Auditorium, 612 N. Nebraska Ave., Jan. 16.
        
Recertification in additional applicator categories is offered at the following locations and dates. Available categories vary at each of the locations; check the pesticide applicator education schedule booklet for details.  Preregistration required:
Ainsworth: Courthouse Meeting Room, 148 W. Fourth St, Feb. 7, 26.
Beatrice: Gage County Extension Office, 1115 W. Scott, Feb. 7, 26 or March 21.
Chadron: 4-H Building, Fairgrounds, Feb. 21     
Columbus: Platte County Courthouse, 2610 14th St., Feb 26.
Dakota City: Farm Service Center, 1505 Broadway, Feb. 21.      
Fremont: Dodge County Extension Office, 1206 W. 23rd St., Feb. 7 or March 21.
Grand Island: College Park, 3180 W. Hwy. 34, Feb. 7, 26.
Holdrege: Phelps County Fairgrounds, Ag Center, 1308 2nd St., Feb. 7 or March 21.
Lincoln: Lancaster County Extension Office, 444 Cherrycreek Rd, Feb. 7, 26 or March 21.
Norfolk: Madison County Extension Office, Lifelong Learning Center, 601 E. Benjamin Ave, Feb. 7, 26 or March 21.
North Platte: UNL West Central Research and Extension Center, 402 W. State Farm Rd, Feb. 7, 26.
Ogallala: Valentino's, 55 River Road, March 21.
Omaha: Douglas/Sarpy County Extension Office, 8015 West Center Rd, Feb. 7, 21, 26 or March 21.
Scottsbluff: UNL Panhandle Research and Extension Center, 4502 Ave I, Feb. 7, 26 or March 21.
Valentine: Cherry County Extension Office, 365 N. Main St, Ste. 3, March 21.

UNL Extension also works with several trade organizations, making recertification available at their annual conferences. Conferences offering these opportunities for specific categories include:

Nebraska Turf Conference: Jan. 8, LaVista Conference Center, 12540 Westport Parkway, LaVista. Recertification in Ornamental and Turf pest control category and Demo/Research subcategory. Call the Nebraska Turfgrass Association at 402-472-5351 for registration materials.

Nebraska Urban Pest Management Conference: Feb. 13, The Cornhusker Hotel, 333 S. 13th St, Lincoln. Recertification in structural/health-related pest control, public health pest control, wood destroying organisms, and fumigation categories. Contact Shripat Kamble, UNL Department of Entomology, 402-472-6857 for copies of the program and registration forms.

Nebraska Great Plains Conference, Feb. 19, The Cornhusker Hotel, 333 S. 13th St, Lincoln. Recertification in ornamental and turf pest control category. Call 402-390-1701 for registration information.

Nebraska Aviation Trades Association Conference: Feb. 19, 20, Younes Conference Center, 416 Talmadge Road, Kearney. Recertification in aerial pest control category. Call Nebraska Aviation Trades Association 402-475-6282 for information.

Those seeking initial certification must preregister for one of the following training sessions and purchase study materials 10 days in advance of the training. Training categories vary at the listed sites: 
Beatrice: Gage County Extension Office, Fairgrounds, 1115 W. Scott, March 19.
Columbus: Platte County Courthouse, 2610 14th St, March 19.
Fremont: Dodge County Extension Office, 1206 W. 23rd St, Feb. 5.
Grand Island: College Park, 3180 W. Hwy. 34, Feb. 5, 28.
Lincoln: Lancaster County Extension Office, 444 Cherrycreek Rd, Feb. 5, 28 or April 11.
Norfolk: Madison County Extension Office, Lifelong Learning Center, 601 E. Benjamin, Feb. 28 or March 19.
North Platte: UNL West Central Research and Extension Center, 402 W. State Farm Rd, Feb. 5, 28 or April 11.
Ogallala: Valentino's, 55 River Road, March 19.
Omaha: Douglas/Sarpy County Extension Office, 8015 West Center Rd, Feb. 5, March 19 or April 11.
Scottsbluff: UNL Panhandle Research and Extension Center, 4502 Ave I, Feb. 5, 28, March 19 or April 11.
Valentine: Cherry County Extension Office, 365 N. Main St., Ste. 3, March 19.



Education to Private Pesticide Applicators Available From UNL Extension

Private pesticide applicators holding licenses that expire in 2013, as well as anyone seeking first-time private applicator certification, should contact their local University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension office for information on pesticide education training sessions that begin in January.

Licensed private pesticide applicators can buy and use restricted-use pesticides in their own farming operations after completing this training. About 6,700 private applicators statewide are eligible for recertification in 2013.

Applicators will learn about Nebraska's pesticide laws and regulations, the pesticide label, personal safety, the worker protection standard, environmental protection, integrated pest management, pesticides and application, application equipment and equipment calibration, said UNL Extension pesticide safety educator Clyde Ogg.

New training topics include changes in pyrethroid labeling to reduce the risk of surface water pollution. Pesticide applicators using this insecticide should avoid applications when water from rain or irrigation could carry the pesticide or soil particles holding the pesticide off the site.

Glyphosate is frequently detected in surface water and rainfall; its usage increased more than eight-fold in a 15-year period from 1992 to 2007, Ogg said. Weeds that are resistant to glyphosate are appearing in Nebraska. Training will cover strategies to reduce the chance of developing weed populations resistant to herbicides.

Research has shown that illness in 11 states associated with pesticide drift is not limited to aerial applications. Drift from chemigation and ground applications can cause illness as well.

During pesticide training, applicators will be briefed on how to reduce drift, to protect human health as well as sensitive crops and commodities such as grapes and bees, Ogg said. An online tool called driftwatch, formerly known as the sensitive crop locator site, is available to help applicators determine if they will be managing land near sensitive crops.

Private applicators needing recertification in 2013 should have received a letter notifying them of that fact from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture in mid-December, Ogg said. The letter includes a bar code, which eliminates the need to complete the standard NDA application form for those wanting to recertify, he said. Applicators having the bar-coded letter with them at training sessions will not have to fill out the application form.

Some applicators may have been assigned new 911 addresses in the past three years, and NDA's notification letters may not be deliverable due to an outdated address. All applicators should check their licenses for the expiration date. If it will expire in 2013 and they have not yet received a letter from NDA, contact them at 402-471-2351 or 877-800-4080.

UNL Extension provides the educational training for recertification, while NDA is responsible for licensing. Cost of UNL training is $30 per person.

For a list of training sessions, sites and dates, contact your nearest UNL Extension office or go online to http://pested.unl.edu/privateschedule, where applicators will find pesticide education sites for private applicators listed by county.

If a private applicator cannot make it to local training sessions, there is another option for becoming certified or recertified, through completion of an online course consisting of 10 modules and quizzes. Pesticide applicators can purchase access to the online course via http://marketplace.unl.edu and going to the Pesticide Education section. Cost for the course, which will take about eight hours to complete, is $60.

After completing private applicator training, certification applications will be sent to NDA, which will then send a bill to the applicator for the $25 state license fee, Ogg said.



ICA's New Program to Strengthen Beef Business

The Iowa Cattlemen's Association announced a new program for its members at the organization's convention and annual meeting in Altoona. "We are excited about this program, called Beef Business Connections," said ICA CEO Matt Deppe. "This program is going to provide the information, training and education that will improve the longevity and profit potential for Iowa's beef cattle producers."

Beef Business Connections already has plans in place for seminars in 2013. Planned seminars will be about capital acquisition for start-up or growth, planning the transfer of beef cattle farm operations between generations, and low-stress cattle handling.

"We are bringing in some of the best talent on these subjects to provide information to Iowa's cattle producers. ICA is dedicated to advancing the economic strength of our members by connecting them to resources that help them grow their beef business," Deppe said. Securing these experts and launching this initiative was largely inspired and is supported by Summit Livestock Facilities, an FBi Buildings company.

"Summit Livestock Facilities is dedicated to improving the profit potential of our customers. So, being the founding sponsor of ICA Beef Business Connections is a perfect fit for us," said Miles Ridgway, President of Summit Livestock Facilities. "We greatly value our relationship with the ICA and welcome this opportunity to contribute resources to advancing the ICA's role in providing Iowa cattlemen and women with the information needed to improve their profit potential," he said during the announcement of the program.

The current programs on the calendar include:
-- Capital Acquisition Seminar - Jan. 29, Maquoketa, and Jan. 31, Storm Lake.
-- Generational Ownership Transfer Seminar - Mar. 14, Independence.
-- Low-Stress Cattle Handling, Training and Demonstrations - July 22, Mason City; July 23, Cedar Rapids; July 25, Donnellson; and July 26, Red Oak.

Details about each event is on the www.beefconnections.org website. ICA members will also receive a brochure with all the details with their January Iowa Cattleman magazine.



Cost Share Helps Farmers Install 4,660 Acres of Cover Crops

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey Wednesday announced that 117 Iowa farmers took advantage of changes this year to the Iowa Financial Incentives Program, which is commonly called state cost share, to install 4,660 acres of cover crops across the state.

"We are excited about the initial response we received to this new effort to encourage the use of cover crops and hope it is the start of many more farmers looking at and using this conservation practice," Northey said. "We have seen a lot of growing interest in cover crops and with the drought and early harvest this year it was a good opportunity for farmers to try them on their farm."

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship made the rule change in August that included cover crops as an eligible practice under the state cost share program. Through the program Iowa provided up to $25 per acre for the establishment of the cover crop. In total the Department's $104,253 investment was matched by farmers and landowners in 24 different Soil and Water Conservation Districts across the state.

Research has shown that cover crops can be an effective management tool to control erosion from wind and water and ties up the nitrogen in the soil and reduces the potential for nitrate to leach into our surface waters and ground waters. Nitrate transport to streams can be particularly high after a drought period, when stressed crops may not have used all available fertilizer, or in times of excessive moisture.

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) also provided assistance for cover crops and has seen tremendous growth in recent years. This year they provide assistance to support cover crops on 51,635 acres in Iowa, up from 4,059 acres in 2009.



USDA Issues Final Rule for Animal Disease Traceability

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced a final rule establishing general regulations for improving the traceability of U.S. livestock moving interstate.

"With the final rule announced today, the United States now has a flexible, effective animal disease traceability system for livestock moving interstate, without undue burdens for ranchers and U.S. livestock businesses," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "The final rule meets the diverse needs of the countryside where states and tribes can develop systems for tracking animals that work best for them and their producers, while addressing any gaps in our overall disease response efforts. Over the past several years, USDA has listened carefully to America's farmers and ranchers, working collaboratively to establish a system of tools and safeguards that will help us target when and where animal diseases occur, and help us respond quickly."

Under the final rule, unless specifically exempted, livestock moved interstate would have to be officially identified and accompanied by an interstate certificate of veterinary inspection or other documentation, such as owner-shipper statements or brand certificates.

After considering the public comments received, the final rule has several differences from the proposed rule issued in August 2011. These include:
-    Accepting the use of brands, tattoos and brand registration as official identification when accepted by the shipping and receiving States or Tribes
-    Permanently maintaining the use of backtags as an alternative to official eartags for cattle and bison moved directly to slaughter
-    Accepting movement documentation other than an Interstate Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (ICVI) for all ages and classes of cattle when accepted by the shipping and receiving States or Tribes
-    Clarifying that all livestock moved interstate to a custom slaughter facility are exempt from the regulations
-    Exempting chicks moved interstate from a hatchery from the official identification requirements

Beef cattle under 18 months of age, unless they are moved interstate for shows, exhibitions, rodeos, or recreational events, are exempt from the official identification requirement in this rule. These specific traceability requirements for this group will be addressed in separate rulemaking, allowing APHIS to work closely with industry to ensure the effective implementation of the identification requirements.

For more specific details about the regulation and how it will affect producers, visit www.aphis.usda.gov/traceability.

Animal disease traceability, or knowing where diseased and at-risk animals are, where they've been, and when, is very important to ensure a rapid response when animal disease events take place. An efficient and accurate animal disease traceability system helps reduce the number of animals involved in an investigation, reduces the time needed to respond, and decreases the cost to producers and the government.

This notice is expected to be published in the December 28 Federal Register.



2012: A Beef Checkoff Year in Review

As calendar year 2012 comes to a close and we reflect back on the year, it’s hard to select only a few program highlights to share because there were so many. To be brief, we bring you the Top 5:

1)  BOLD research:  Registered Dietitians and other health professionals received factual, scientifically supported beef nutrition information following the publication of the remarkable checkoff-funded Beef in an Optimal Lean Diet (BOLD) research study published in January in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. News of the study reached thousands of health professionals through an educational webinar about beef’s role in a heart-healthy diet.

2)  Greystone Culinary Event:  The checkoff hosted an exclusive culinary education seminar at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. More than 30 leading research and development chefs from nationally recognized companies attended the “beef-immersion” course and received a 360-degree education that included culinary innovation, butchering techniques, and hands-on training with alternative beef cuts.

3)  American Heart Association Certified Beef Cuts:  Food City worked with the beef checkoff to introduce four American Heart Association certified extra-lean beef cuts that meet its criteria for saturated fat and cholesterol. The four beef cuts are the Top Sirloin (select grade); Boneless Petite Roast, Filet, Kabob, and Stir-Fry. 

4)  US Beef Exports:  Central and South America have emerged as top growth markets for U.S. beef with even greater potential for the future. Working against a global market where beef imports are generally down, the Central/South America region is up sharply through the first nine months of 2012, purchasing 57.7 million pounds of U.S. beef valued at $99.2 million, increases of 36 percent in volume and 73 percent in value over last year.

5)  2011 National Beef Quality Audit:  The National Beef Quality Audit (NBQA) is a comprehensive survey that evaluates beef industry efforts to continuously improve beef quality. Extensive enhancements were made to the 2011 NBQA design to provide the industry with direction on factors beyond the physical characteristics of beef, such as food safety, sustainability, animal well-being, and the consequences/impacts of beef production practices.

But as we ring in the New Year we also face challenges as an industry and as a checkoff program. At their 2013 Outlook & Strategies Seminar, CattleFax stated that they expect the US cattle inventory to be 89.8 million head on Jan. 1, 2013, down over 1 million head (1.1 percent) from a year ago.

That means in 2013, your checkoff will once again be doing more with less.

“The great thing about our checkoff program is our ability to adapt to and embrace change,” says Kim Brackett, Cattlemen’s Beef Board sec./treas. and producer from Buhl, Idaho. “While we reflect back on the many program successes this past year, it’s amazing how far our checkoff investment goes and producers should be proud of that. But we also have been charged with an incredible task of providing safe, wholesome beef both in the US and outside our country’s borders, and we have to do it with fewer resources.”

Checkoff-funded market research has also found that perceptions about beef are more positive than perceptions about the way cattle are raised. This gap will be a critical, ongoing measure of the effects of communications and issues management programs designed to inform and reassure consumers about beef production. To address these ever-changing consumer needs in the coming year, the checkoff has developed a new committee structure. 

“Our new committee structure will make us more focused on consumer preferences in order to achieve greater program results,” says Brackett. “We realized that this was necessary in order to maintain beef’s positive image and the image of our industry with consumers; and, we hope the synergies this new committee structure presents will help move the needle on beef demand.

“I’m both energized and excited about the possibilities in 2013 and hope every fellow producer feels the same.”

For more information about your beef checkoff investment, visit MyBeefCheckoff.com.



U.S. and China Conclude 23rd Session of the Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade
Commerce, USTR and USDA welcome concrete results in trade negotiations, reiterate need to achieve greater market access for U.S. exporters

Today marked the conclusion of the 23rd session of the U.S.-China Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade (JCCT).  Acting U.S. Secretary of Commerce Rebecca Blank and United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk co-chaired the JCCT along with Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan.  U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack also participated in the discussions.  The U.S. officials announced meaningful progress on key elements of the U.S.-China trade relationship but also underscored that much more work remains to be done to open China's market to U.S. exports and investment.

"During the past four years that I have been pleased to co-chair the JCCT, the two sides have secured key commitments on issues important to both U.S. and Chinese stakeholders.  Today's meetings were important both as a capstone to our past efforts and to lay a foundation for progress going forward.  The progress we made today on issues of fundamental concern demonstrates that the JCCT is a valuable platform that can produce results for business and workers here at home," said Ambassador Kirk.

"The 23rd meeting of the JCCT demonstrated that the U.S. and China will continue to work toward ensuring healthy and balanced growth in our commercial and economic relationship," said Acting Secretary Blank. "We made progress today, though we also recognized that there is still work to do.  Among other important outcomes, we were able to address U.S. concerns relating to intellectual property and innovation, to agree on the elimination of significant regulatory obstacles that were impeding U.S. exports, and to secure meaningful steps for dealing with core issues in China's Government Procurement Agreement accession.  As China continues to open its market to American exports and investment, it will benefit both of our countries."

Secretary Tom Vilsack said, "USDA continued advancing American agricultural interests today in our bilateral trade discussions with the Chinese government.  China is currently the top export market for agricultural products produced by America's farmers and ranchers, and we were able to make progress on several key issues, while reinforcing the inherent value of the products produced in the United States. Much more work remains to be completed and we'll continue working with our Chinese counterparts in the year ahead."

The U.S. and Chinese governments also today signed agreements related to enhancing understanding and measurement of bilateral trade, and increasing the numbers of reverse trade missions which support China's continued development while creating more U.S. exports and jobs.  Additional information about the signings and fact sheet for the 23rd session of the JCCT will be forthcoming.

Established in 1983, the JCCT is the main forum for addressing bilateral trade and investment issues and promoting commercial opportunities between the United States and China.




Global Corn Demand Spurs Historic Shift in China

According to the U.S. Grains Council, China is on track to produce more corn than rough rice for the first time in history, illustrating the growing affluence by the Chinese middle class and their demand for a more protein-rich diet. In its December World Agricultural Supply & Demand Estimate, the U.S. Department of Agriculture upwardly revised its projection of Chinese corn production from 200 million metric tons (7.9 billion bushels) to 208 million metric tons (8.2 billion bushels). USDA is also projecting a Chinese rough rice production of slightly more than 204 million metric tons.

Over the past 20 years, China has experienced explosive growth in meat demand. Poultry consumption has increased 300 percent. Pork consumption has increased 85 percent and beef consumption has increased 155 percent. That is a dramatic contrast to the U.S. figures, which are 45 percent, 6 percent and 3 percent respectively. Rice represents a staple food for more than 2 billion people—including two of the world's most populous countries—India and China—but the data suggests people in China are increasing their desire for animal protein.

"Dramatic shifts in corn production are taking place across the globe" said Kevin Roepke, USGC manager of Global Trade. "This is stark evidence that today's corn producer is well poised to take advantage of growing global consumerism."

The U.S. Grains Council has been operational in China for more than 30 years with a country office located in Beijing, specializing in technical demand building programs and market intelligence.



 U.S. DDGS Exports to Japan in 2012 Hit Record

The U.S. Grains Council reports that U.S. distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS) exports to Japan have expanded dramatically since 2004 when they imported a little over 3,000 metric tons. According to the Ministry of Finance Customs, Japan imported more than 384,000 metric tons of U.S. DDGS between January and October 2012, marking the highest imports on record. According to USGC Director in Japan, Tommy Hamamoto, imports are on track to reach 450,000 metric tons in calendar year 2012. Hamamoto also suggested that imports could increase even more in 2013, provided that U.S. ethanol and DDGS production rebound and as Japanese nutritionists gain familiarity with the new low-fat DDGS.




Record 86 Percent of Planted Farmland Protected by Crop Insurance

Eighty-six percent of all planted U.S. farmland – some 281 million acres – is protected by crop insurance this year, up 2 percent from 2011 and a nearly three-fold increase from the late 1990s when only about 30 percent of farmers purchased policies, according to data from USDA’s Risk Management Agency.

The growth in coverage has been fueled by a number of factors, including fewer federal risk management alternatives for farmers, many farmers’ desire to have increased control of their risk management choices, federally-funded premium subsidies for those who purchase policies, a wide array of policy options and the value banks place on crop insurance when making loans.

But many would argue that private sector crop insurance agents, who operate largely on commission for the policies they sell, should be included in that list as well. Ruth Gerdes, a farmer and crop insurance agent from Auburn, Nebraska, nearly lost the land that she and her husband were farming 28 years ago and decided that other farmers needed to learn more about the benefits of crop insurance to avoid a similar brush with foreclosure.

One of the undeniable factors behind the growth of crop insurance, according to Gerdes, is “a motivated workforce” of agents. “We all strive to provide a quality service,” she said, adding that in an industry where premiums are decided by the government, the only way agents can distinguish themselves is through superior customer service.

“We all work to know the products and markets and are willing to be called upon at all hours when disaster strikes,” she said. Gerdes explained that agents, who are often farmers, or have farmed themselves, take great pride in their work and want their customers – the farmers – to be happy with both the insurance products they purchase as well as the service the agents provide. “And of course, part of it also is because we want the producer’s business again the next year,” she added.

Gerdes argues that “this competitive business model is good for the farmer and good for the system,” which is evident by the ever-increasing number of new crop insurance products developed, which today protect 128 different crops.

In 2012, some 1.2 million crop insurance polices were sold, covering 128 different crops. While 84 percent of the polices sold covered corn (34 percent), soybeans (31 percent) and wheat (19 percent), policies were also written for specialty crops including cherries, almonds, cranberries and avocados.



NCGA Announces National Corn Yield Contest Winners for 2012

Advanced production techniques, informed growing practices and improved seed varieties helped corn growers achieve high yields in the National Corn Growers Association 2012 National Corn Yield Contest. Despite a severe drought that plagued most of the Corn Belt, entrants continued to far surpass the national average corn yield, even doubling it in some circumstances.

The National Corn Yield Contest is in its 48th year and remains NCGA’s most popular program for members. With 8,262 entries, the 2012 NCGA National Corn Yield Contest neared the participation record set last year of 8,425 entries. Notably, 2012 still marks a dramatic trend toward higher entry rates, far surpassing the previous entry record set in 2010 of 7,125 entries.

“While this contest provides individual growers a chance for good-natured competition with their peers, it also advances farming as a whole,” said Dean Taylor, chairman of NCGA’s Production and Stewardship Action Team. “The techniques and practices contest winners develop provide the basis for widely used advances that help farmers across the country excel in a variety of situations, including drought.  This contest highlights how innovation, from both growers and technology providers, allows us to meet the growing demand for food, feed, fuel and fiber.”

The 18 winners in six production categories had verified yields averaging more than 316.3222 bushels per acre, compared to the projected national average of 122.3 bushels per acre in 2012. Notably, while the national average declined significantly from a projection of 146.7 bushels per acre at this time in 2011, the contest average rose by more than three bushels per acre. While there is no overall contest winner, yields from first, second and third place farmers overall production categories topped out at 384.3609.

“Many of our members first joined NCGA so that they could participate in the National Corn Yield Contest and test their skills as a farmer,” said Brandon Hunnicutt, chairman of NCGA’s Grower Services Action Team. “While they join to gain entry, their view of the organization, and corresponding level of participation, evolves.  Once a contest participant looks at our activities and achievements on behalf of all American growers, they see the value in a grassroots approach that unites the voices of corn farmers across the country to affect change.  Reluctant joiners turn into vital members, spokespeople for their industry and active advocates of NCGA membership.”

The national and state contest winners will be honored at the 2013 Commodity Classic in Kissimmee, Fla. February 28 - March 2. Contest winners will also be featured in a special edition of Progressive Farmer magazine.

Please visit National Corn Growers Association website www.ncga.com for the complete list of National winners.



ICE to buy NYSE for $8.2B

The New York Stock Exchange is being sold to a rival exchange for about $8 billion, ending more than two centuries of independence for the iconic Big Board.

IntercontinentalExchange Inc., an upstart exchange based in Atlanta, said Thursday that NYSE Euronext Inc. shareholders can chose to receive either $33.12 in cash, .2581 IntercontinentalExchange Inc. shares, or a combination of $11.27 in cash plus .1703 shares of stock.

The deal has been approved by the boards of both companies, but would have to be approved by regulators.

Last year, IntercontinentalExchange and Nasdaq OMX Group Inc. made a failed $11 billion bid to buy NYSE Euronext.

Earlier this year, European regulators blocked Deutsche Boerse AG from buying NYSE Euronext.

Wednesday December 19 Ag News

Fontanelle Hybrids Hosts AquaView Meeting

Fontanelle Hybrids of Fremont will hold a meeting on the use of AquaView irrigation management on Thursday, January 10, 2013, 10am to 1pm at the Nielsen Community Center in West Point.  The meeting will focus on the Irrigation Management they provide with the AquaView Initiative, and the Precision Ag aspect that is the Fields of the Future Initiative where they work with Crop Metrics on that incorporates Variable Rate Technologies like Irrigation, Seeding, Soil Sampling and More. 

Speakers: Nick Lammers – Fontanelle - AquaView Lead
                Kylen Hunt – Crop Metrics - Precision Ag and VRI Specialist

Please RSVP By January 7th to Chris Hansen if you plan to attend at:  Cell #: (402) 380-8351  -or-  Email: christopher.hansen@fontanelle.com



Historic Involvement of State Councils in National Checkoff Program Helps Assure Link to Grassroots
Craig Uden, Chairman - Federation of State Beef Councils, Beef Producer - Elwood, Neb.

Today’s Beef Checkoff Program got its start in 1985, when the Beef Promotion Act was passed by Congress. The Act established a $1-per-head assessment on the sale of each bovine animal in the United States, plus each imported animal or an equivalent on imported product, for the purpose of creating a promotion, research and education fund that would help increase demand for beef.

Most who pay into the program know this. What is less well-known is that grassroots producers at the state level not only helped make it possible, but had funded national beef promotion programs for many years prior to 1985, through the Federation of State Beef Councils. The Federation will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2013.

I believe the mandatory national checkoff wouldn’t have gotten off the ground if not for efforts at the state level that not only supported the effort, but provided assurances that producers from state councils would have a huge say in how the program was set up and run. It’s why Qualified State Beef Councils (there are 45) collect the $1-per-head assessment, and are allowed to retain control of half of the funds they collect. About 700 producers who sit on state beef council boards help make decisions about in-state promotions and supplements to national and international demand-building programs.

This decision-making process is another way we assure that ownership of the beef checkoff remains in the hands of producers who pay the dollar. It also increases confidence that the dollars collected will be used for what they were intended – to strengthen demand for beef.

There’s more, though. By law the Federation selects half of the members of the 20-member Beef Promotion Operating Committee (BPOC), which determines which national and international checkoff-funded programs will be funded, and at what amount. The decisions made by this body must be approved by the entire Cattlemen’s Beef Board, which administers the Beef Checkoff Program, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees it.

Representatives of State Beef Councils sit on committees that help determine which programs are recommended for funding. And, often the programs approved by the BPOC are implemented at the state level by State Beef Council staffs. So State Beef Councils are involved in the input, planning and development of beef checkoff programs – and the execution, as well. All of these elements are vital in a successful state/national partnership, which is crucial to a successful beef checkoff program.

None of this has happened by accident. Many states had already created their own checkoffs when the Federation got its start as the Beef Industry Council, a division of the National Live Stock and Meat Board, in 1963. Their councils, some formed in the 1950s, reflected the type of beef production in their state, and could focus on the specific needs of beef promotion that their citizens required.

When the Meat Board and the National Cattlemen’s Association merged to form the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association in 1996, BIC became a division of NCBA. And that’s where it resides today.

Surveys show that more than 70 percent of producers support the checkoff, and I believe grassroots involvement by producers through their state beef councils is one of the reasons why. The Federation is proud to support beef council interests at the national level, and is excited about celebrating its 50th anniversary. Furthermore, we continue to find ways of maximizing the role of state councils in their tradition of service to this country’s producers, finding even more ways to increase consumer demand for beef.



Farm Food Safety Workshops Offered Across Nebraska in January and February

             University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension workshops in January and February will help fruit and vegetable growers comply with new federal safety law.

             The FDA Food Safety Modernization Act, signed by President Obama earlier this year, enhances the traceability of fresh produce grown in the United States, as well as mandates greater responsibility for food safety on the part of producers. The bill requires producers to evaluate hazards to their products, take steps to prevent contamination and to develop written food safety plans.

            The workshops will help fresh produce growers or farmer's market managers complete the Good Agricultural Practices training. They will be presented by UNL Extension educators, with support from the University of Nebraska Rural Futures Institute.  At the end of the workshop, participants will better understand GAPs, and how they can complete their own farm food safety plans.

            The topics that will be covered will help producers enhance worker sanitation, harvesting, handling, packaging, storage and transportation standards of fresh produce from the farm operation to markets, schools, restaurants and retail stores. By completing a Farm Food Safety Plan, producers can differentiate themselves in the marketplace and appeal to many customers who perceive this training as an added benefit.

            The one-day workshops will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The fee is $65 per operation, which covers educational materials, lunch and breaks. Extra participants per operation will be charged $10 each for additional breaks and meals. Registration is due one week before the workshops; a $5 late fee will be charged for registrations after that date.

            Registrations can be made by calling the UNL Extension Office in Hall County, 308-385-5088, or by mailing a check, made out to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, to University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension – Hall County, 3180 W. Highway 34, Grand Island, NE 68801-7279. Specify which workshop the registration is for.

The schedule:
            – Sidney, Jan. 15 (deadline Jan. 8), South Platte Natural Resource District, 551 Parkland Drive
            – Lincoln, Jan. 17 (deadline Jan. 10), Lancaster County Extension Office, 444 Cherrycreek Road, Suite A
            – Ord, Jan. 18 (deadline Jan. 11), Valley County Extension Office, 801 "S" Street, Suite 1 – Fairgrounds.
            – Hastings, Jan. 24 (deadline Jan. 17), Adams County Extension Office, 300 N. St. Joseph Avenue
            – Wayne, Feb. 20 (deadline Feb. 13), Meadowlark Room – Student Center, Wayne State College, 
            – Beatrice, Feb. 20 (deadline Feb. 13), Gage County Extension Office, 1115 W. Scott



Smith and Terry Seek Farm Bill in Fiscal Cliff Package

Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) sent a letter to Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) requesting the inclusion of farm policy in any year-end legislative package considered by the House of Representatives.  Smith’s letter also was signed by Congressman Lee Terry (R-NE).

“As negotiations to resolve the fiscal cliff continue, I hope farm policy will be included as part of a larger deal,” said Smith.  “While agriculture remains one of the lone bright spots in the economy, farmers and ranchers continue to struggle with severe weather and uncertain public policy.  By responsibly addressing the fiscal cliff and the Farm Bill, Congress can provide certainty to producers and taxpayers as they plan for the coming year.”

Click here to see a copy of the letter....  http://adriansmith.house.gov/sites/adriansmith.house.gov/files/documents/Final%2012-19-12.pdf.  



NCGA Action Team about More than "Grower Services"

The National Corn Growers Association's Grower Services Action Team focuses on three areas for the organization: membership, leadership and communications. In each of these areas, 2013 will continue to bring exciting programs and re-energized efforts under the leadership of the 14 growers who, along with state and national staff assistance, keep a sharp eye on program efforts in these three areas.

Following the meetings, GSAT Chair Brandon Hunnicutt, a grower from Nebraska, discussed and what NCGA members can expect to see in 2013.

"Over the past few years, our team has really become excited about some of the new communications projects that we have launched like the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance, CommonGround and the Corn Farmers Coalition," said Nebraska corn farmer Brandon Hunnicutt, who chairs the team. "Most recently, NCGA launched the Corn Farmers Action Network, which will help us gain valuable insight and enable us to really activate our membership in the future in defense of this industry that we love."

During the December meetings, the teams and committees hosted a variety of expert speakers who provided insight into issues facing the industry and the organization. From presentations on specific issues from other stakeholder viewpoints to group exercises designed to expand perspective, the presenters helped team members develop a fuller, multifaceted understanding of the issues facing corn farmers.

"We had an expert speaker also as Phil Bruno addressed the group and led an exercise to explore our views on generational difference and on change," said Hunnicutt. "Each team member shared as we delved into how Baby Boomers, Gen X'ers and Millennials view one another. In examining our views on the strengths and weaknesses of and differences between these groups, we gained valuable insight that will be of use as we move forward in growing our membership and activating our grassroots."

Summarizing what might interest growers most, he expressed hope for the future rooted in the growing willingness to take on the part of farmers to stand up and speak out.

"First and foremost, they should know that our membership is growing," stated Hunnicutt. "While many organizations are going through a contraction phase right now, we are actually expanding. I find it exciting to see how many corn farmers out there are willing to put their name on the line and speak out for the industry."

In addition to Hunnicutt, team members include Vice Chair Tom Haag, Corn Board Liaison Don Elsbernd, Roscoe Eggers, Lori Feltis, Robert Hemesath, Gary Hudson, Ken Kleinschmidt, Larry Mason, David Merrell, Herb Ringel, Mark Scott and Matt Habrock of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association.



Webinars for Ranch Advisors to Focus on Drought Planning

            A spring webinar series will provide drought planning techniques and technologies to advisors seeking to help Great Plains ranchers manage through drought. The webinars are scheduled from January through May 2013, on the last Wednesday of each month.

            "What happens from January through May will be really critical," said Lynn Myers, a Sandhills rancher who will be one of the January presenters. "For example, it could determine whether there are cattle in the western Sandhills in 2013."

            Each one-hour webinar will start at 10 a.m. (CT) with a briefing on current drought status and what to expect in the foreseeable future, followed by a session on a specific technique related to drought planning, and question-and-answer time. The webinars will be led by ranchers and advisors with hands-on experience in drought planning and range management.

            Jerry Volesky, a range and forage specialist at the West Central Research and Extension Center in North Platte, Neb., will introduce the series by talking about why ranchers need drought plans.

            "It leads to earlier and more effective management decisions that can have positive economic benefits," he said. "Additionally, ranchers that have well-developed plans indicate that their plans have made the drought event less stressful and it gives them a sense of confidence."

Dates, topics and presenters in the series are:

            Jan. 30: Managing Drought Risk on the Ranch: The Planning Process, by Jerry Volesky, range and forage specialist at the West Central Research and Extension Center in North Platte, Nebraska, and Lynn Myers, owner of Tippets-Myers Ranch in western Nebraska.

            Feb. 27: Avoiding Analysis Paralysis: Monitoring and Setting Critical Dates for Decision Making During Drought, by Dwayne Rice, rangeland management specialist, NRCS, Kansas; Ted Alexander, owner of Alexander Ranch in south-central Kansas; and Cal Adams, owner of Adams Ranch in north-central Kansas.

            March 27: The New Cumulative Forage Reduction (CFR) Index: for Assessing Drought Impacts and Planning a Grazing Strategy, by Pat Reece, owner and senior consultant of Prairie Montane Enterprises and professor emeritus of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

            April 24: Using a Drought Calculator to Assist Stocking Decisions, Stan Boltz, state range management specialist, NRCS, South Dakota and Jeff Printz, rangeland management specialist, NRCS, North Dakota.

            May 29: Economic Factors to Weigh in Making Decisions during Drought, by Matt Stockton, agricultural economist at the West Central Research and Extension Center in North Platte.

            The sessions are free and open to the public. Registration is required to receive the Adobe Connect webinar link. To register, go to http://go.unl.edu/uwk.

            More information can be found at the Managing Drought Risk on the Ranch website, at http://drought.unl.edu/ranchplan. Please contact Tonya Haigh, National Drought Mitigation Center and SARE project coordinator, thaigh2@unl.edu, 402-472-6781, with any questions.

            The webinars are sponsored by the National Drought Mitigation Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The series was developed with support from the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture (USDA-NIFA). Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed within do not necessarily reflect the view of the SARE program or the U.S. Department of Agriculture. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.



Feedlot Forum 2013 Focuses on New Issues and Information

The Feedlot Forum 2013 focuses on all things new, beginning with a new location. Beth Doran, beef program specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, said the forum will be held on Jan. 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Terrace View Event Center just south of Sioux Center off Highway 75.

“There are a variety of new beef issues – animal welfare audits, new feed processing methods, global trade and formula pricing – facing feedlot producers in 2013,” Doran said.  “We also will see new developments in environmental inspections and age and source verification programs.”

Keynote speaker for the program is Andrew Gottschalk, owner of HedgersEdge.com LLC and senior vice president of RJ O’Brien and Associates. In his presentation, “Beyond Our Borders,” he’ll talk about market outlook and global demand for U.S. beef.

“As a long-time market analyst and second generation family member involved in beef cattle and grain production, he has personally experienced the huge transition in the beef industry,” Doran said. “Attendees will benefit from that knowledge.”

Other speakers and their topics include Stephen Pollard with EPA Region 7 AFO/CAFO inspection program; Doug Bear of Iowa Beef Industry Council and Kellie Carolan of Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, Beef Quality Assurance program and age/source verification; and Iowa Beef Center director Dan Loy, alkali treatment of corn stover to improve digestibility.

The event also includes a trade show featuring the latest in facilities, pharmaceuticals, nutritional products, consulting services and agricultural lending. A flyer with registration form is available on the IBC website.

Registration is $25 per person, which includes the noon meal and is due Jan. 16 at the Sioux County Extension Office. For more information, contact Doran at 712-737-4230 or e-mail doranb@iastate.edu.



ICA Board Selects New Directors at Annual Meeting

A Garner, Iowa cattle producer will be the new president of the Iowa Cattlemen's Association. Ed Greiman, who is involved with both a feedyard and cow-calf operation, became ICA President at the end of the ICA Annual Meeting. He has served on the ICA board since December 2009. Greiman replaces Ross Havens, Wiota, whose term had expired.

During the ICA Convention, which was held in Altoona, the ICA Board of Directors elected Phil Reemtsma, DVM, of DeWitt as president-elect. He has been a member of the board of directors since December 2006. Reemtsma feeds cattle and is a large animal veterinarian. He previously was the Southeast Iowa regional vice president.

Newly elected to the position of associate vice president is Brent Henningsen of Ames. He is Senior Territory Manager for Pfizer Animal Health. He replaces Mike Sexton, Rockwell City.

Other members of ICA's Executive Committee are Al Johnson, Northwood, Northwest regional vice president, re-elected this fall by his region; Larry Johnson, Maquoketa, Northeast regional vice president; and David Trowbridge, Tabor, elected this fall as Southwest regional vice president to replace Scott Hansen, Adel, who stepped down after serving his second term.

The positions of president, president-elect, and associate vice president are all one-year terms. Those serving in the positions can serve a maximum of two terms. Regional vice presidents serve two-year terms, and may serve a maximum of three terms.

The ICA Executive Committee will appoint a replacement for Reemtsma, who will serve until an election is held at the Southeast Regional meeting in the summer of 2013.



Lilienthal joins ISA as communications manager

Heather Lilienthal has joined the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) as communications manager.  Lilienthal helps lead the association’s communication efforts to the group’s members, media and public. She serves as the primary contact for media requests and writes news releases and stories for the association’s newsletters and publications to provide up-to-date news about ISA and soybean production. Lilienthal also works with the association’s social media efforts, including ISA’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/IowaSoybeans) and Twitter feed (@IASoybeans).

“I’m excited to be a part of this dynamic farm organization that is dedicated to helping its members succeed in new and existing markets for their products and empower these farmers to become industry leaders,” Lilienthal says. “It’s all about telling the stories of our soybean farmers in every way we can, whether that’s done through traditional newsletters or taking things to Twitter. I’m honored to serve them.”

Lilienthal has been involved with Iowa agriculture for more than a decade, working as a writer and senior communications specialist with the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation. She has also operated a freelance writing business and served as a staff writer for the Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier. She and her husband and two children live in Ankeny. She is a member of the Waldorf College alumni board, graduate of the Ankeny Leadership institute and is involved in her church and community. 



Informa Economics Sees U.S. Corn Acreage Reaching 99 Million

Informa Economics is calling for corn to be planted on 99 million acres next year, while soybeans will be planted on nearly 79 million acres, according to its December acreage estimate released Wednesday. Informa lowered its estimate of winter wheat seedings from last month, and now estimates 42.2 million winter wheat acres.

The aggregate crop area is relatively unchanged, and Informa noted that "survey indications suggested a stronger desire to plant corn and cotton than previously indicated by Informa's analysts of relative crop economics."

Informa's production projections are 14.8 billion bushels for corn, 3.4 bb for soybeans and 15.0 million bales for all cotton. Hard red winter wheat production was pegged at 947 million bushels while soft red wheat production was forecast at 468 mb.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 12/14/2012

According to EIA data, ethanol production averaged 822,000 barrels per day (b/d) – or 34.52 million gallons daily.  That is down 2,000 b/d from the week before.  The four week average for ethanol production stood at 821,000 b/d for an annualized rate of 12.56 billion gallons.

Stocks of ethanol stood at 20.8 million barrels. That is a 4% increase from last week and the highest since the week ending 6/22/2012.

Imports of ethanol showed 37,000 b/d, essentially tripling last week’s total.

Gasoline demand for the week averaged 362 million gallons daily, the highest in a month.

Expressed as a percentage of daily gasoline demand, daily ethanol production was 9.54%.

On the co-products side, ethanol producers were using 12.464 million bushels of corn to produce ethanol and 91,738 metric tons of livestock feed, 81,785 metric tons of which were distillers grains.  The rest is comprised of corn gluten feed and corn gluten meal.  Additionally, ethanol producers were providing 4.28 million pounds of corn oil daily.



United States Milk Production November 2012

Milk production in the 23 major States during November totaled 14.9 billion pounds, up 1.1 percent from November 2011. October revised production at 15.2 billion pounds, was down slightly from October 2011. The October revision represented an increase of 1 million pounds or less than 0.1 percent from last month's preliminary production estimate.  Production per cow in the 23 major States averaged 1,758 pounds for November, 19 pounds above November 2011.  The number of milk cows on farms in the 23 major States was 8.47 million head, 3,000 head less than November 2011, but 8,000 head more than October  2012.

Milk production in Iowa during November 2012 totaled 367 million pounds, up 14 million   pounds   from November 2011, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Milk Production report.   The average number of milk cows on hand during the month, at 205,000 head, was up 5,000 head from November 2011.  Production per cow averaged 1,790 pounds, up 25 pounds from November 2011.



CWT Assists with 8.9 Million Pounds of Cheese and Butter Export Sales

Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) has accepted 41 requests for export assistance from Dairy Farmers of America, Darigold, Foremost Farms, Maryland & Virginia Milk Producers Cooperative, Michigan Milk Producers Association and United Dairymen of Arizona to sell 7.547 million pounds (3,423 metric tons) of Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese and 1.318 million pounds (598 metric tons) of butter to customers in Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. The product will be delivered December 2012 through June 2013.

In 2012, CWT has assisted member cooperatives in making export sales of Cheddar, Monterey Jack and Gouda cheese totaling 123.2 million pounds, butter totaling 72.4 million pounds, anhydrous milk fat totaling 127,868 pounds and whole milk powder totaling 171,961 pounds. The product is going to 36 countries on four continents. On a butterfat basis, the milk equivalent of these exports is 2.718 billion pounds.

Assisting CWT members through the Export Assistance program positively impacts producer milk prices in the short-term by helping to maintain inventories of cheese and butter at desirable levels. In the long-term, CWT’s Export Assistance program helps member cooperatives gain and maintain market share, thus expanding the demand for U.S. dairy products and the farm milk that produces them.

CWT will pay export bonuses to the bidders only when delivery of the product is verified by the submission of the required documentation.



NSP Announces 2012 Yield and Management Contest Winners

National Sorghum Producers is proud to announce the winners of the 2012 NSP Yield and Management Contest. Farmers from 22 states entered to win this year’s contest. Producer yields are highlighted in 11 different categories, including the new Double Crop Irrigated and Non-Irrigated categories, with this year’s top yield at 213.33 bushels per acre.

The national winners will be further recognized at Commodity Classic in Kissimmee, Fla., on March 1, 2013.

The 2012 first place winners of the NSP Yield and Management Contest were Tom Taylor of Kansas who won the Reduced-Till Irrigated category with a yield of 213.33 bushels per acre; Bob Shearer of Pennsylvania in the No-Till Non-Irrigated category with a yield of 140.85 bushels per acre; Mike Shearer of Pennsylvania in the Mulch-Till Non-Irrigated category with a yield of 131.94 bushels per acre; Gage Porter of Iowa in the Conventional-Till Non-Irrigated category with a yield of 144.29 bushels per acre; Ki Gamble of Kansas in the Conventional-Till Irrigated category with a yield of 210.85 bushels per acre; Tim King of Tennessee in the Double Crop Non-Irrigated category with a yield of 131 bushels per acre; and Reznik and Sons Inc., of Texas in the Double Crop Irrigated category with a yield of 147.72 bushels per acre.

Ki Gamble of Kansas is the Irrigated National Food-Grade category winner with a yield of 196.48 bushels per acre, and James Vorderstrasse of Nebraska won the Non-Irrigated National Food-Grade category with a yield of 119.23 bushels per acre. Tom Taylor of Kansas won the Irrigated Bin Buster Award category with a yield of 213.33 bushels per acre, and Steve Feight of Kansas yielded 160.37 bushels to win the Non-Irrigated Bin Buster Award.

“I congratulate all of the winners on their sorghum yield success in 2012,” said NSP Chairman Terry Swanson. “This contest is a great way to showcase the achievements of producers using best management practices, while demonstrating the yield potential of grain sorghum even in years when drought has plagued much of the nation’s cropland.”

To see a complete list of the NSP Yield and Management Contest national, state and county results or to learn more about the contest, visit www.sorghumgrowers.com. 



Census Provides Opportunity to Grow the Future of Agriculture
2012 Census of Agriculture Arriving in Mailboxes across America

It's not every day that a walk to your mailbox leads to an opportunity to help shape farm programs, boost rural services and grow your farm future. But for producers across the country, that opportunity will soon become a reality. The 2012 Census of Agriculture, the only source of consistent and comprehensive agricultural data for every state and county in the nation, is currently being mailed to millions of farmers and ranchers across the United States.

Conducted every five years by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), the Census provides detailed data covering nearly every facet of U.S. agriculture. It looks at land use and ownership, production practices, expenditures and other factors that affect the way farmers do business and succeed in the 21st Century.

"The 2012 Census of Agriculture provides farmers with a powerful voice. The information gathered through the Census influences policy decisions that can have a tremendous impact on farmers and their communities for years to come," said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. "I strongly encourage all farmers, no matter how large or small their operation, to promptly complete and return their Census, so they can voice to the nation the value and importance of agriculture."

Vilsack added that in addition to affecting policy decisions, Census information also influences community growth and development. Many companies review Census data when determining where to establish or expand their businesses, as well as where they can go for supplies of locally-produced food and agricultural products, which further emphasizes the importance of supplying accurate information. Information from the Census also is valuable to explain the many ways farming is important to urban or non-farming residents and decision-makers.

"Along with their accomplishments as business men and women, farmers know about the challenges they face in their local areas," said Vilsack. "Taking part in the Census is increasingly important to farmers and every community in America because it provides important information and helps tell the true story about the state of agriculture in the United States today."

All farmers and ranchers should receive a Census form in the mail by early January. Completed forms are due by February 4, 2013. Farmers can return their forms by mail or online by visiting a secure website, www.agcensus.usda.gov. Federal law requires all agricultural producers to participate in the Census and requires NASS to keep all individual information confidential.

For more information about the Census, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov or call 1-888-4AG-STAT (1-888-424-7828). The Census of Agriculture is your voice, your future, your responsibility.



Victory for Public Land Ranchers in Arizona Lawsuit

The Public Lands Council (PLC), Arizona Cattle Growers’ Association (ACGA) and several individual Arizona ranchers announced victory in a recent case where a radical anti-grazing environmental group challenged in court the U.S. Forest Service’s (USFS) decision to continue livestock grazing on eight Arizona grazing allotments. The challenge was originally filed with the Arizona U.S. District Court by Western Watersheds Project (WWP) in August 2011. Represented by Mountain States Legal Foundation, PLC, ACGA and two ranchers filed as intervenors in support of USFS and asked the court to grant summary judgment on the eight decisions, which allowed grazing to continue under the “categorical exclusion” parameters of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

On Monday, U.S. District Judge Neil V. Wake ruled in favor of USFS and the defendant intervenors, granting summary judgment on seven of the eight grazing allotments in question, including the Casner Park/Kelly Seep, Pine Creek, Seven C-Bar, Twin Tanks, Chino Valley, Cosnino and V-Bar allotments. On the eighth allotment, the Angell, he ruled that USFS’ documentation of the impacts of grazing was insufficient, and asked the parties to submit proposed forms of judgment by early January.

According to PLC Executive Director Dustin Van Liew, the judge’s ruling on the seven allotments is a major win for the livestock grazing industry, which depends on efficiencies granted under NEPA’s “categorical exclusion” provisions and subsequent appropriations language for timely reauthorization of grazing. In the absence of these provisions, excessive regulatory red tape and unnecessary analysis would increase the opportunity for litigation by predatory special interest groups, with no added benefit to range health, he said.

“Under ‘categorical exclusion’ provisions and the protections offered through appropriations language, land management agencies are able to reauthorize grazing that is simply continuing under existing conditions, and rightfully so,” said Van Liew. “Continuing grazing on western lands that, in many cases, have been grazed for more than a century does not constitute a ‘major federal action’ or fall under the agency’s ‘extraordinary-circumstances’ definition that would require full NEPA review.”

ACGA Executive Vice President Patrick Bray said the decision will benefit not just the ranchers in his state, but will potentially have positive west-wide implications.

“Federal land management agencies face a daunting backlog of regulatory paperwork under NEPA which, in the absence of the congressional language allowing for categorical exclusions, threatens ranchers’ grazing rights— which could ultimately kill their businesses,” Bray said. “With this and other similar challenges across the West, Western Watersheds Project makes a business out of adding burden to already-strained agency resources. Their taxpayer-funded strategy is focused on wiping out livestock grazing along with the families and communities that depend on it,” said Bray.

Van Liew said the livestock industry is encouraged by the fact that Judge Wake determined USFS’ use of categorical exclusions to be in keeping with Congress’ intent when it enacted NEPA and subsequent provisions in appropriations bills.

“The livestock industry is involved in similar challenges across the West and has seen several victories,” he said. “We’re encouraged by this ruling, as it reinforces the rights of ranching families in Arizona and the West.”

Tuesday December 18 Ag News

Irrigation, Groundwater Use on Agenda at LENRD Board Meeting This Week

Due to the well problems caused by groundwater declines this summer, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District will consider designating additional groundwater management areas.  Their regular Board Meeting will be held Thursday, December 20th at 7:30 p.m. in the Lifelong Learning Center on the campus of Northeast Community College in Norfolk.  During this meeting, the board will also be considering requiring flow meters for irrigation use, setting maximum irrigation amounts to prohibit excessive irrigation use, and restricting new irrigated acres.  Proposals from vendors for equipment used to monitor in-season groundwater declines will be presented.  The meeting is open to the public.



Drought Lingers, but Producers Can Plan Ahead

Drought is hard to prepare for and even harder to predict.  Last summer caught some producers by surprise, and they have had to contend with high feed costs and limited availability.

Next year, though, shouldn't catch anyone by surprise.  It will be nearly impossible to fully recharge moisture into the soil profile by next spring.  Unless fields receive lots of extra, good soaking moisture next spring, dryland yields are likely to be below average.  And since there will be very little hay carryover, prices are likely to stay high, said Bruce Anderson, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension forage specialist.

"Most pastures were grazed more heavily last year than usual," Anderson said. "They have almost no forage remaining for use next year and most root systems were weakened going into winter."

Carrying capacity for pastures next year probably will be less than average unless they receive above average precipitation.  Even with extra rain, though, spring growth could be slower or later than usual, Anderson warned.

These effects leave producers with several choices. Anderson said they could plant annual forages or rent cornstalks for winter grazing, adding that producers should consider how they might take advantage of any rain they do receive.

"I suggest you take a realistic look at your livestock forage program," he said. "If it stays dry, can you afford to keep doing what you have been doing?"



Heuermann Lecture featuring Dr.Temple Grandin, January 15 at 7 PM

Dr. Temple Grandin, animal sciences professor at Colorado State University and a world leader in understanding livestock behavior and designing livestock handling facilities, is the Heuermann Lecturer Tuesday, Jan. 15, in the Hardin Hall auditorium on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s East Campus, 33rd and Holdrege.

Dr. Grandin’s 7 p.m. lecture topic is “Improving Animal Welfare and Communications with the Public.”  We in the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at UNL hope you’ll join us for her lecture, and the short reception following.  The lot north of Hardin Hall is available for free parking for those attending the lecture.

Heuermann Lectures are made possible by a gift from B. Keith and Norma Heuermann of Phillips, long-time university supporters.  Heuermann Lectures focus on meeting the world’s growing food and renewable energy needs while sustaining natural resources and rural communities.

If you are not able to join us, please know all Heuermann Lectures are streamed live at http://heuermannlectures.unl.edu, and archived at that site, usually within a day after the lecture.



UNL Ag Research Division's 'Big Idea Seminars' Continue in January and February

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Agricultural Research Division's "Big Idea Seminars" will continue with three seminars in January and February.

"Advances in Plant Recognition and Identification Technology," organized by Steve Young, assistant professor at UNL's West Central Research and Extension Center at North Platte, will discuss how plant identification is advancing from keys to computer systems and even apps for use in managed and natural systems.

"The technology boom is revolutionizing management aspects of both crop and non-crop systems, including the use of advanced technology for targeted plant recognition and applications systems," Young said. "Growers will soon have a plant identification monitor sitting next to their yield, soil moisture and nutrient monitors in their tractor cab, while outdoor enthusiasts, conservationists and resource managers will have the ability to identify invasive and other important plant species using identification technology that is also equipped with communication and environmental monitoring devices."

With the world population predicted to be 9 billion by 2050, this technology is needed to meet future demands for food, feed and fiber, Young said. Similarly, the increasing threat from invasive species in natural areas and the lack of trained individuals who can properly identify plans are signaling the need for this recognition technology.

The ARD's seminar series hopes to build big ideas and collaborations among faculty members not only at UNL, but across all University of Nebraska campuses.

Dates, speakers, times, locations and topics include:
– Jan. 17, Simon Blackmore, 2 p.m. informal discussion, 3 p.m. reception, 3:30-4:30 p.m. seminar, Nebraska East Union, "New Concepts in Agricultural Automation."
– Jan. 22, David Jacobs, 2 p.m. informal discussion, 110 Avery Hall; 3 p.m. reception, 348 Avery Hall; 3:30-4:30 p.m. seminar, 115 Avery Hall, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, UNL City Campus, "Using Computer Vision for Species Identification."
– Feb. 1, Lie Tang, 2 p.m. informal discussion, 3 p.m. reception, 3:30-4:30 seminar, Nebraska East Union, UNL East Campus, "Plant Recognition for Robotic Weeding: Challenges and Opportunities."

Blackmore, professor at Harper Adams University College in England, is a key figure in the development of precision farming and agricultural robotics with a worldwide reputation. He worked for 12 years in Africa and Europe before starting his academic career and now collaborates with many universities around the world to help develop precision farming and agricultural robotics. His presentation will discuss how smarter machines will save time and money.

Jacobs is a professor in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Maryland with a joint appointment in the university's Institute for Advanced Computer Studies. Jacobs' research has focused on human and computer vision, especially in the areas of object recognition and perceptual organization. He will describe the first mobile app for identifying plant species using automatic visual recognition. The system called LeafSnap identifies tree species from photographs of their leaves. In addition, he will discuss some recent work on animal species identification.

Tang is an associate professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Iowa State University. His research program focuses on the development of robotic and intelligent systems for agricultural applications such as robotic weeding. He will present his research findings in crop and weed recognition, and share his vision about how the technological advancements in sensing and computation may enable us to invent new weeding tools that can maximize weed control efficacy while minimizing their environmental footprint.

For more information visit the ARD's Big Idea Seminars website at bigideaseminars.unl.edu.

The seminar series is in the university's Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.



Bipartisan Group of Lieutenant Governors Support Wind PTC

Iowa Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds Monday released a letter sent by a bipartisan coalition of lieutenant governors from eight states to congressional leaders supporting the Wind Production Tax Credit (PTC). Reynolds brought together the lieutenant governors of Colorado, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Rhode Island and Washington in support of an extension to the wind PTC.

"The wind energy industry is not only a source of renewable energy, but it is also a vital component of the Iowa and American economy," said Reynolds. "Over 6,000 Iowans are able to trace their employment to the wind industry. I am proud that my colleagues joined me to urge Congress to pass the Wind PTC extension allowing our states and the wind industry to continue harnessing American energy, creating jobs and expanding economic development in the process."

Lt. Gov. Joseph Garcia (D-Colo.), Lt. Gov. Yvonne Prettner Solon (D-Minn.), Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy ( R-Neb.), Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb (R-Okla.), Lt. Gov. Elizabeth Roberts (D-R.I.), Lt. Gov. Matt Michels (R-S.D.) and Lt. Gov. Brad Owen (D-Wash.) joined Reynolds in signing on to the letter addressed to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.), Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) and Senate Democrat Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).

Without action from Congress, the Wind PTC will expire at the end of December.

In the letter the lieutenant governors state, "Without the PTC extensions, the U.S. economy will lose tens of thousands of jobs and the opportunity to leverage $10 billion of private investment." The letter continues, "Businesses in our states need the certainty of a PTC extension to encourage new capital investments, maintain their competitive edge of wind energy technologies, and create high paying jobs."

The letter concludes by pointing out the PTC enjoys bipartisan support from members of Congress, states and the private sector. Every member of the Iowa congressional delegation supports an extension of the wind PTC and Lt. Gov. Reynolds' letter is the latest action Iowa leaders have taken to show support for an extension.



Five-Year Agriculture Census Now in Progress

America's farmers and ranchers are again being asked to take part in the 2012 Census of Agriculture. The census is conducted every five years by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Agricultural Statistics Service. The census is a complete count of all U.S. farms, ranches and those who operate them.

"It is important that all growers, state farmers, women farmers and ranchers respond," said Mike Duffy, Iowa State University Extension economist. "Census information is your voice and helps to shape the farm future as farmers. The Census of Agriculture is the only opportunity to know the state of U.S. agriculture. The census data can be used for research projects, general information on trends, basis for policy decisions and a host of other activities. Farmers benefit from completing the census as completely and accurately as possible because the information is used in a variety of ways that can affect them directly."

Renee Picanso, director of NASS's Census and Survey Division, says the census data is vital. The census looks at land use and ownership, operator characteristics, production practices, income and expenditures and other topics. This information is used by all those who serve farmers and rural communities from federal, state and local governments to agribusinesses and trade associations. She contends that legislators do use the data when shaping farm policy, agribusinesses factor it into their planning efforts and rural service providers use it in planning community improvements.

The most up to date data being passed along by NASS is based on the 2007 census when 2 million farms existed that totaled 922 million acres. This was a 4 percent increase in the number of U.S. farms from the previous 2002 census, but the increase was basically hobby farmers or farmer market suppliers.

NASS is to have all the census forms out by the end of December. Completed forms are due by Feb. 4, 2013.

Producers can fill out the census online via a secure website, www.agcensus.usda.gov, or return their form by mail.



Iowa Cattlemen Members Adopt Policy for 2013

Members of the Iowa Cattlemen's Association adopted policy at their annual meeting that supports improvement in infrastructure for farmers, protecting animal health, and providing information and transparency to consumers. Outgoing ICA President Ross Havens of Wiota said the resolutions indicate that cattle producers recognize "there is a lot of work to do, especially on the social side."

The infrastructure issues include protecting the purposes of the Road Use Tax Fund and the formula from fuel taxes and pickup license fees that direct dollars to rural roads and bridges. ICA supports efforts that increase funding as long as those increases are used for intended purposes.

Other infrastructure issues include support for renewable fuels production that maximizes access to co-products for the Iowa cattle industry; and encouraging efforts for clean and safe water supplies while not enforcing criminal penalties in cases where manure spills are accidental.

In regards to animal health, ICA members said they want an aggressive and coordinated response to animal diseases such as FMD and BSE to be maintained, and they want state government to do a facility assessment of the ISU Veterinarian Diagnostic Lab to make sure it continues to meet safety regulations relative to bio containment and space for diagnostic needs. If that assessment shows weaknesses in those areas, they want the state to allocate resources to address those weaknesses.

In the area of providing consumers with good and transparent information, the members said ICA should advocate for judicious use of antimicrobials in both animals and humans, and create on-going education for producers and veterinarians to continue the judicious use of the products. They also called upon all niches in the beef market to work cooperatively to promote beef without attacking other methods of beef production as being inferior.

Several directives were also adopted by ICA members. One calls for ICA to develop plans that would initiate a petition drive to reinstate a 50-cent voluntary state checkoff, and report to the ICA executive committee by July 1, 2013 how that plan could be implemented.

"We are adopting policies that are level-headed," said incoming ICA President Ed Greiman of Garner. "We're headed in the right direction."



Limits on Winter Manure Application Start Late December in Iowa

Most animal and crop producers know there is greater potential for runoff and nutrient loss following winter manure application. State law, however, sets some dates when producers with confinements can -- and can't -- apply liquid manure on snow-covered or frozen ground.

The law does not apply to manure from open feedlots or dry manure, or in the case of emergencies.

It does apply to confinement (totally roofed) facilities with liquid manure that have 500 or more animal units. Generally, 500 animal units would be 1,250 finishing hogs; 5,000 nursery pigs; 500 steers, immature dairy cows or other cattle; or 357 mature dairy cows.

"The research shows that the later in the season and the closer to spring snowmelt that you land apply manure, the greater the risk that manure-laden runoff will reach a stream," said Gene Tinker, coordinator of DNR's animal feeding operations.

"In winter, it's particularly important to use common sense and choose areas far from a stream, on flat land with little snow cover," Tinker said. "Because this is surface application, the manure applicator must follow setbacks from certain buildings and environmentally sensitive areas."

The law limits liquid manure application from Dec. 21 to April 1 if the ground is snow-covered. If manure can be properly injected or incorporated, it can be land applied during this time. Snow-covered ground is defined as soil having one inch or more of snow cover or one-half inch or more of ice cover.

Starting Feb. 1, confinement producers with 500 or more animal units will also be limited to emergencies if applying liquid manure on frozen ground. The rules are available online under Chapter 65 of the Iowa Administrative Code/Environmental Protection Commission.

Emergencies are defined by state law as unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the producer such as natural disaster, unusual weather conditions, or equipment or structural failure.

Producers must call the local DNR field office before they apply to report emergency applications. They can apply manure only to fields identified for emergency application in the manure management plan that have a Phosphorus Index of 2 or less. DNR field specialists may have ideas or suggestions for producers on specific sites or risks.

More information on the protected areas is available at www.iowadnr.gov/portals/idnr/uploads/afo/sepdstb4.pdf?amp;tabid=1465. Recommendations from the Iowa Manure Management Action Group about applying manure in winter are available at www.agronext.iastate.edu/immag/pubs/imms/vol3.pdf.



Fertilizer Prices Steady, Avoiding Shortages

Retail fertilizer prices tracked by DTN for the second week of December continue to remain steady, as has been the case the past couple of months. Meanwhile, a long application season this fall has been a relief to fertilizer distributors worried about barge traffic on the Mississippi River.

Seven of the eight major fertilizers were lower compared to this past month, but these moves to the low side were fairly small, the DTN survey found. DAP had average price of $639 per ton, MAP $676/ton, potash $613/ton, urea $575/ton, 10-34-0 $602/ton, UAN28 $369/ton and UAN32 $418/ton.  The remaining fertilizer, anhydrous, was higher compared to the second week of November, but again the move higher was fairly insignificant. The nitrogen fertilizer had an average price of $877/ton.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was at $0.62/lb.N, anhydrous $0.53/lb.N, UAN28 $0.66/lb.N and UAN32 $0.65/lb.N.

Only one of the eight major fertilizers is still showing a price increase compared to one year earlier, DTN's survey found. Anhydrous is now 9% higher compared to last year.  Six fertilizers are actually lower in price compared to December 2011. Urea is 3% lower; potash is 7% less expensive; DAP, MAP and UAN28 are all 8% less compared to last year, and UAN32 is 9% lower.  The remaining fertilizer is now down double digits from a year ago. 10-34-0 is now 27% less expensive from a year earlier.



National Biodiesel Board Joins Diesel Technology Forum

The National Biodiesel Board, which represents more than 260 U.S. and international companies that produce and distribute renewable biodiesel fuel, is the newest allied member of the Diesel Technology Forum.  DTF is a non-profit organization that promotes the use of the most modern clean diesel technologies in the United States.

The National Biodiesel Board (NBB) is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to coordinating the biodiesel industry and educating the public about the fuel. NBB membership is comprised of state, national, and international feedstock and processor organizations; biodiesel producers and suppliers; fuel marketers and distributors; and technology providers.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome the National Biodiesel Board to the Diesel Technology Forum,” said Allen Schaeffer, the Executive Director of the Forum.  “The NBB has a mission of educating the public and policy makers about the importance of biodiesel as an important component in America’s goal of expanding the use of alternative and renewable energy sources.  This is an excellent partnership with the Diesel Technology Forum’s mission of educating policymakers about the economic importance, energy efficiency and environmental progress of clean diesel technology.

“We share the common goal of assuring that future energy and transportation policies recognize the unique value and capabilities of diesel technology, particularly as it relates to the energy security and environmental benefits of the use of high-quality biodiesel fuels in diesel engines and equipment,” Schaeffer said.

Steve Howell, Technical Director for the National Biodiesel Board, said, “NBB is excited about our new partnership with the Diesel Technology Forum.  Many people do not realize that today’s new technology diesel engines with ultra low sulfur biodiesel blends provide tailpipe emissions as clean or cleaner than natural gas or gasoline, while providing superior fuel economy, horsepower, and durability.  In addition, when you combine the increased efficiency diesel engines with the low carbon nature of an Advanced Biofuel like biodiesel, new technology diesel engines are positioned to become the clean - and green - technology of the future.”

The members of the Diesel Technology Forum are leaders of the diesel industry and include a diverse membership of OEMs, suppliers, fuel refiners and device manufacturers who are leading the fight for clean diesel technology.



New Television Campaign Shows Cool Side of Bioheat

Heating oil consumers in the Northeast are learning how making a small change will support American jobs, domestic energy security, and cleaner air.  It's thanks to three television commercials airing to promote the benefits of Bioheat.®

Bioheat is heating oil blended with biodiesel, a renewable fuel. The National Biodiesel Board has worked to encourage consumers and oilheat dealers alike to adopt Bioheat in place of traditional home heating oil for years, but the new television commercials aim to speed up that process by generating more consumer demand.

The commercials began running throughout the Northeast in late November, and will run for the next few months during local newscasts and football pregame shows in markets such as Boston, New York City, and Hartford, Conn. The ads highlight the benefits of Bioheat, including greater energy independence, supporting American Jobs, and "making the air in your home and town cleaner."  

In New York City, one of the commercials congratulates the city on using 2 percent biodiesel in all of its heating oil, thanks to a law that took effect in October.  The ads proclaim New York City "Proud 2B2," a play on the B2 requirement. 

This is the first advertising campaign involving television commercials for Bioheat.

"Strong imagery supporting our message is an advantage in creating a connection with customers," said Paul Nazzaro, petroleum liaison for the National Biodiesel Board.  "Consumers see the visual of a Bioheat truck, and see families like theirs, which helps personalize the message.  Our goal is simply to pique their curiosity, drive them to the Bioheat website, and contact a dealer who carries it."

The campaign also is meant to serve as a marketing tool for Bioheat dealers, who can use the commercials in their own markets or on their websites.  The campaign is funded by the Nebraska Soybean Board, the United Soybean Board, the Iowa Soybean Association and the South Dakota Soybean Research & Promotion Council. 

"The oilheat market genuinely wants and needs our product, which empowers farmers to continue participating in the U.S. energy sector," said Greg Anderson, a fifth generation farmer in Newman Grove, Neb., speaking on behalf of the Nebraska Soybean Board. "Soybean farmers are very proud to wave the Bioheat flag because we recognize the tremendous potential it holds for both our industries."

Biodiesel is an advanced biofuel made from sustainable resources such as soybean oil, recycled grease and other fats and oils.  To be called Bioheat, heating oil must contain at least 2 percent biodiesel. It is cleaner burning, cost-competitive with oilheat, and does not require modifications to the oilheat system.



China Will Continue To Drive Agricultural Commodity Demand For Next Decade, Rabobank Client Poll Finds

China's continued influence on agricultural commodity demand and global economic growth, along with increasing weather extremes, stand out as key issues for North American food, beverage and agribusiness in 2013, a recent poll of Rabobank clients shows.

The poll of over 350 executives from leading companies in the North American food, beverage and agribusiness industry was conducted at Rabobank's recent Markets Forum held in New York City.  Rabobank is a leading bank to the global food and agribusiness industry and premier financial institution to the North American food, beverage and agriculture sector.

China Will Continue to Drive Demand for Agricultural Commodities
Asked to name the country or region which they believe will have the greatest impact on global agricultural commodity demand over the next 10 years, 61 percent of respondents at the Rabobank Forum chose China.  That view of China's continued dominance far exceeded views of India (14 percent), Africa (10 percent), Latin America (9 percent), and Southeast Asia (6 percent).

Views Mixed on China's Long-Term Economic Dominance
Despite recent signs of slowing economic growth in China, the large majority of executives polled by Rabobank see China continuing to be the most important driver of long term global economic growth.  Forty one percent of respondents said China would drive the global economy for between five and 10 more years, while 40 percent said China will remain the primary driver of global economic growth for the next 50 years.  

Bill Cordingley, Head of Food & Agribusiness Research and Advisory for Rabobank in the Americas, said, "These results are not surprising and reflect the significant impact that China has had on the food and agribusiness industry over the past 10 years, globally as well as in North America.  China today has the second largest middle class in the world at 157 million, which will surpass the U.S.'s middle class in the next ten years, so China's demand for agricultural commodities is going to continue to grow.  Our North American clients in the food, beverage and agriculture sectors see opportunities to play a role in the Chinese market, not only as exporters but also as investors in the country's domestic growth by bringing technology, know-how and capital to support development of a more modern, safe food system in China."

In addition to their views on China, Rabobank Forum attendees provided opinions on a range of topics that they believe will be significant issues for the global and North American food and agriculture/agribusiness industry in the coming years, including production levels, risk management, genetically modified organisms (GMO), social media, and U.S. and European macroeconomics.

Continued Weather Extremes Will be Dominant Factor for North American Food & Agribusiness
Notably, 68 percent of attendees named weather extremes/volatility as the single biggest factor affecting North American food and agribusiness in 2013.  That concern far outweighed the next two closest factors – consumer demand (13 percent) and policy/regulation (10 percent).  Geopolitical events, trade/tariffs/exchange rates, and policy/regulation all received votes in the single digits.

"Given that the North American industry, particularly the U.S., is in the middle of the worst drought in over 50 years," said Cordingley, "these views are quite understandable and represent a significant issue that is top of mind for most food industry players as we enter 2013."

Agribusiness Increasing Risk Management In Response to Volatility
Reflecting the concern over continued weather volatility, 59 percent of respondents said that 2012 drought has changed their views about risk management in their business.  Executives at the Rabobank Forum cited an increased focus on financial liquidity (25 percent), increased investment in risk management and insurance (21 percent), and greater diversification (13 percent) as their three leading solutions to hedge against continued volatility in weather patterns and commodity markets.

66% Expect U.S. Corn Yield to Exceed 200 Bushels/Acre by 2025
"Corn is a critical input to the North American food industry, and strong and consistent yield growth has underpinned the industry in the U.S. for the past ten years.  Despite the enormous gains already made due to precision farming, GMOs, and other technologies, attendees at the Forum were very bullish in terms of their outlook for this trend to continue longer term," said Cordingley.

Over ninety percent of executives at the Rabobank Forum said that they expect U.S. corn yields to exceed 170 bushels per acre by 2025:  notably, over a quarter (26 percent) forecast yields of over 250 Bu/a, while forty percent forecast yields of between 200 Bu/a and 250 Bu/a.  Those expectations compare to U.S. trend line yields of between 150-160 Bu/a in recent years, prior to this year's drought-driven decline to 120 Bu/a.

Impact of Social Media on Food & Agribusiness Sector
Social media played a significant role in the news earlier this year about the use of lean finely textured beef (LFTB) in U.S. beef processing.   Rabobank asked its Forum attendees if the rise of social media is causing them to adopt a different approach in their business.  More than half of executives (51 percent) said that the growing influence of social media is changing the way they handle brand and reputation management and business communications.  Nine percent said it is driving changes in the way they handle vendor/customer/supply chain management.  However, 37 percent said they are not making business changes in response to the increasing prominence of social media. 

"Social media has introduced a new and widely accessible communications platform to the media mix,  and this has created both opportunities and risks for companies in the food industry. For some parts of the industry, 'business as usual' may not work any longer as social media exercises its potential to be a catalyst for change. However, the social media phenomenon also offers the industry an opportunity to engage in direct discussions with consumers and other stakeholders, to address concerns, to educate, and to clarify fact from rumor or misinformation.  One thing is certain, social media is changing the food business in North America."

What Factor Will Most Influence Acceptance of GMOs?
While well-established in the U.S. market, GMOs in agriculture remain controversial in many parts of the world and have not had anywhere near the rates of option outside the U.S.  Polled on the factors that would most encourage increased global uptake of GMO technology in agriculture over the next decade, 56% of respondents cited sustained high commodity prices.  Others said that greater consumer acceptance (34 percent) will be key to higher adoption, but 7 percent said they believe GMO uptake will slow. Three percent said that improved intellectual property rights in developing markets will be the solution to make GMOs more acceptable among consumers and the food industry.



Aproach Fungicide Receives EPA Approval

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has granted registration approval for DuPont™ Aproach™ fungicide (aproach.dupont.com). Aproach™ will give corn, soybean and wheat growers enhanced protection from a broad spectrum of foliar and soil-borne diseases. The new fungicide will provide more reliable plant health and disease control performance and yield opportunities through both preventive and curative disease control, redistribution through the plant for more complete coverage, and rapid movement into and within the plant.

“Aproach™ has unique properties that will deliver results growers can see, from protection against production-limiting diseases to increased harvestable yield,” said John Chrosniak, regional director, North America, DuPont Crop Protection. “Aproach™ is another powerful tool from DuPont Crop Protection that will help growers address the challenge of producing high-quality crops to feed a growing world population.”

Within its class of fungicides, Aproach™ has unprecedented movement into and within the plant. This movement rapidly protects poorly covered leaf surfaces, plus leaves and stems that have not yet emerged, and delivers protection closer to the soil surface where many plant diseases originate.

Better coverage, preventive and curative activity, and residual control means Aproach™ helps compensate for less-than-ideal application timing, so growers are better able to defend yield despite challenging conditions.

Research has shown Aproach™ helpsreduce incidence of yield-robbing diseases, including gray leaf spot, Northern corn leaf blight, Southern leaf blight and common rust in corn; soybean white mold, frogeye leaf spot, brown spot and Asian soybean rust in soybeans; and powdery mildew, rusts, tan spot, septoria leaf blotch and glume blotch in wheat.

·       When applied to corn under stress, Aproach™ nearly doubled total leaf area and more than tripled average chlorophyll index compared to a leading fungicide.1 Increased green leaf area gives a corn plant greater opportunity to achieve its yield potential.

·       In soybeans, Aproach™ demonstrated up to 85 percent reduction in white mold severity, 60 percent reduction in brown spot severity compared to leading fungicide programs and a yield increase of seven bushels per acre compared to untreated plots.2

·       In wheat, Aproach™ showed 62 percent uptake into leaf cells two days after application and 80 percent uptake seven days after application. Competitive fungicides achieved no more than 17 percent uptake by seven days after application.3

For added crop protection and efficiency, Aproach™ may be tank-mixed with a variety of herbicides and insecticides, including DuPont™ Prevathon® insect control for effective control of yield-reducing worms in corn, DuPont™ Asana® XL insecticide for control of aphids and beetles in soybeans, and DuPont™ Harmony® Extra SG herbicide for broadleaf weed control in wheat.