Tuesday September 24 Harvest Progress + Ag News

NEBRASKA CROP PROGRESS AND CONDITION

For the week ending September 22, 2024, there were 6.7 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 18% very short, 43% short, 38% adequate, and 1% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 14% very short, 43% short, 42% adequate, and 1% surplus.

Field Crops Report:
Corn condition rated 5% very poor, 8% poor, 20% fair, 45% good, and 22% excellent. Corn dented was 96%, near 97% last year and 95% for the five-year average. Mature was 66%, equal to last year, and ahead of 59% average. Harvested was 10%, near 13% last year and 9% average.

Soybean condition rated 3% very poor, 8% poor, 23% fair, 48% good, and 18% excellent. Soybeans dropping leaves was 75%, behind 82% last year, and equal to average. Harvested was 10%, near 11% last year and 9% average.

Winter wheat planted was 51%, near 49% last year, and ahead of 45% average. Emerged was 14%, near 12% last year, and ahead of 7% average.

Sorghum condition rated 0% very poor, 5% poor, 18% fair, 47% good, and 30% excellent. Sorghum coloring was 97%, equal to last year, and near 95% average. Mature was 38%, near 40% both last year and average. Harvested was 2%, near 5% last year and 4% average.

Dry edible bean condition rated 3% very poor, 7% poor, 27% fair, 42% good, and 21% excellent. Dry edible beans dropping leaves was 78%, ahead of 66% last year, but near 80% average. Harvested was 46%, ahead of 32% last year, and near 45% average.

Pasture and Range Report:
Pasture and range conditions rated 10% very poor, 23% poor, 30% fair, 29% good, and 8% excellent.



Iowa Crop Progress and Condition Report

Iowa continued to experience hot and dry conditions this week. These conditions allowed Iowa farmers 6.3 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending September 22, 2024, according to the USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service. Field activities included harvesting corn and soybeans.

Topsoil moisture condition rated 9 percent very short, 41 percent short, 49 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus. Subsoil moisture condition rated 8 percent very short, 37 percent short, 54 percent adequate and 1 percent surplus.

Corn in the dent stage or beyond reached 93 percent this week. Corn mature reached 61 percent, 5 days behind last year but 2 days ahead of the average. Corn harvested for grain reached 5 percent, 5 days behind last year but equal to the average. Corn condition rated 77 percent good to excellent.

Soybeans coloring or beyond reached 88 percent, 3 days behind last year but 2 days ahead of the five-year average. Soybean dropping leaves reached 59 percent, also 3 days behind last year and 2 days ahead of the average. Soybean harvested reached 9 percent this week, equal to last year but 1 day ahead of the average. Soybean condition was 78 percent good to excellent.

Pasture condition continued to fall and rated 48 percent good to excellent this week.



USDA Weekly Crop Progress Report

The U.S. corn and soybean harvests both continued ahead of last year and the five-year average pace last week, according to USDA NASS' weekly national Crop Progress report on Monday.

Harvest could be delayed for some farmers this week as one last burst of a system that dumped heavy rain late last week and over the weekend across parts of the Plains and Midwest moves through the Midwest on Monday and Tuesday. Then, next week, farmers in the southeastern Plains through the Midwest again may have to dodge showers from a tropical storm that is starting to develop in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico and is forecast to become a hurricane before making landfall in the Florida Panhandle on Thursday.

CORN
-- Crop development: Corn dented was estimated at 92%, 2 points behind last year's 94%, but 1 point ahead of the five-year average of 91%. Corn mature was pegged at 61%, 4 points behind last year's 65% but 6 points ahead of the five-year average of 55%.
-- Harvest progress: Corn harvest moved ahead 5 percentage points last week to reach 14% complete as of Sunday. That was 1 point ahead of last year's 13% and 3 points ahead of the five-year average of 11%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 65% of corn still in fields was in good-to-excellent condition, unchanged from the previous week but above last year's 53%.

SOYBEANS
-- Crop development: Soybeans dropping leaves were pegged at 65%, 3 points behind last year's 68% but 8 points ahead of the five-year average of 57%.
-- Harvest progress: Soybean harvest moved ahead 7 percentage points last week to reach 13% complete as of Sunday, 3 points ahead of last year's 10% and 5 points ahead of the five-year average of 8%.
-- Crop condition: NASS estimated that 64% of soybeans still in fields were in good-to-excellent condition, unchanged from the previous week but still above last year's rating of 50% good to excellent.

SPRING WHEAT
-- Harvest progress: Spring wheat harvest inched ahead another 4 percentage points last week to reach 96% complete as of Sunday. That put this year's harvest progress at 1 point ahead of last year's 95% and 1 point ahead of the five-year average of 95%.

WINTER WHEAT
-- Planting progress: Winter wheat planting moved ahead 11 points last week to reach 25% nationwide as of Sunday, 2 points ahead of last year's 23% and 1 point ahead of the five-year average of 24%.
-- Crop development: An estimated 4% of winter wheat was emerged as of Sunday, 2 points behind last year's 6% and 1 point behind the five-year average of 5%.

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Lower Interest Rates for Farmers and Ranchers?
(NeFB Newsletter)

The Federal Reserve Open Markets Committee last week voted to lower the federal funds interest rate by one-half point. The reduction was the first since 2019 and the surprise, if any, was that the reduction was one-half point instead of just a quarter-point. Many economists had predicted a reduction of a quarter-point. The Federal Reserve cited slowing inflation (2.5 percent in August—the lowest since 2021) and weakness in the labor market as the primary factors in its decision to lower rates.

The latest agricultural credit survey by Federal Reserve Bank in Kansas City showed farm loan demand in the Tenth District, which includes Nebraska, has risen sharply. According to the Bank, demand for non-real estate loans rose at the fastest rate since 2016 with nearly 45% of lenders saying demand was higher than a year ago. Agricultural lenders also reported an increase in loan renewals and extensions compared to a year ago. Weakening farm financial conditions were mentioned as the cause. The Kansas City Federal Reserve reported the average rate on operating loans in Nebraska in the second quarter was 8.76% and 7.82% for real estate loans. Both rates are the highest seen since 2007-2008.

A lower federal funds rate could mean lower interest rates and interest costs for farm borrowers. Lower rates might also mean a drop in the value of the dollar compared to other countries’ currencies, which could stimulate agricultural exports. Both happenings, if realized, would provide a bit of good news for agricultural producers facing an otherwise weakening financial picture overall. And more rate reductions may be coming. Observers expect further cuts of a cumulative one-half point before the year is out.



HUSKER RESEARCHER TO HELP LAUNCH FIRST ‘DIGITAL TWIN’ OF CORN FIELD

Digital twins are revolutionizing a range of industries, from manufacturing to health care to ride-hail services like Uber. Virtual replicas of supply chains, vehicle parts, traffic routes and beyond enable companies to rapidly innovate and adapt.  

Now, a University of Nebraska–Lincoln plant scientist is leading the way in bringing the technology to the agricultural space. With a three-year, nearly $1 million grant from the National Science Foundation, James Schnable will help develop the first digital twin of a corn field, enabling researchers to quickly test countless what-if scenarios related to corn performance.

Schnable is collaborating with researchers at Iowa State University and Purdue University, who also received NSF funding for the project for a total of $2 million.

“Once we build these digital twins, we can use high-performance computing to simulate and explore how whole fields of corn with different properties would behave — how resilient they are to wind and how efficiently they use water and capture light, for example — without having to actually grow the corn field,” said Schnable, Nebraska Corn Checkoff Presidential Chair and professor of agronomy and horticulture.

The twins would help researchers overcome real-world constraints on the number of field tests researchers can run and more quickly identify the planting arrangements and hybrids with the most potential.

“If we can weed through a million different combinations and find the most promising ones, we’re going to make a lot faster progress than if we’re just picking 100 each year to test,” he said.

Schnable and colleagues have been eyeing the launch of digital twinning in the agricultural space for years. In 2021, eight institutions including Nebraska united to establish the AI Institute for Resilient Agriculture, based at Iowa State, with the goal of building virtual replicas of crops and fields. Through that initiative, Schnable has been collaborating with Iowa State’s Baskar Ganapathysubramanian, an expert in artificial intelligence. For this project, the pair teamed up with Bedrich Benes of Purdue, who focuses on 3D simulation and digital reconstruction of plants.

The trio’s combined expertise and Nebraska’s state-of-the-art facilities are enabling the team to overcome longstanding barriers to twinning crop fields. To this point, researchers have relied on crop growth models — complex series of equations — to predict crop performance. But collecting enough data to adapt these models to new hybrids is labor and time intensive.

Nebraska’s LemnaTec High-Throughput Plant Phenotyping System, housed at Nebraska Innovation Campus’ Greenhouse Innovation Center, automates much of the data collection process and produces high-resolution data across a plant’s life cycle, which Benes can use to twin the plants.

The team will also use Ganapathysubramanian’s innovative approaches to model ray tracing — a sophisticated technique for simulating light’s behavior in digital images — to track light distribution throughout the canopy.  

“Through these tricks that Baskar has come up with in terms of actually getting ray tracing level data, and having access to really high-performance computing, is why we’re able to do this when it was not previously feasible,” Schnable said.

The digital twin will enable the researchers to pinpoint the planting arrangements that are most ideal for capturing light, minimizing water loss and increasing productivity. They will also enable optimization of the corn plants themselves — one of Schnable’s areas of expertise. The tool will allow users to identify the ideal physical characteristics of corn, such as the number, angle, length and width of leaves, in certain environments.

Then, using inverse procedural modeling and quantitative genetics techniques, Schnable will identify the genes that control these physical characteristics.

“Then, we can plan for how complicated it would be to breed new varieties of corn that have these newly identified, potentially optimal combinations of leaf traits in order to create more productive, resource-use-efficient corn varieties,” he said.

For the university, the grant reflects Nebraska’s global leadership in high-throughput phenotyping and corn quantitative genetics — two areas key to achieving food security.

“If UNL is able to bring world leaders in these research areas together and provide something that no one else can provide, we will continue to see larger and larger projects develop,” he said.

For Schnable personally, the project marks a return to the fast-paced work that drew him to computational biology in graduate school. Since coming to Nebraska in 2014, he has devoted significant time to field experiments, which he said has been productive and rewarding. But he is eager to return to the rapid cycle time offered by digital twinning.   

“The idea of being able to sit on a computer, plug in some numbers, watch the plants on the screen change and get feedback right away is really fun,” he said. “I’m excited to be getting back to that.”

      

Registration closing for the 2024 Nebraska Water Conference
Registration closes this Friday, September 27

The 2024 Nebraska Water Conference is quickly approaching, held in Lincoln, Nebraska, on October 9 and 10. This year’s conference theme is Collaboration and Innovation in Nebraska Water. The conference will highlight successful collaborations and innovations in Nebraska water and discuss future opportunities in water research and management.

Held at the Nebraska Innovation Campus conference center, this two-day event will feature discussions on emerging contaminants, drought preparedness, nutrient management, climate smart practices, nitrate research, water policy, climate water resilience, and modeling. Experts from the state and region will share their work and lead discussions on future opportunities for innovative partnerships.

Registration is open from now until September 27. Late registration (September 14 to September 27) is $450.

Registration includes all sessions and meals, as well as the Wednesday evening reception.

Special pricing is available for students and faculty.

For more information about the conference, speakers, and registration, visit go.unl.edu/waterconference and follow the button below to register.



NEBRASKA CHICKENS AND EGGS

Nebraska egg production during August totaled 217 million eggs, up from 212 million in 2023. August egg production per 100 layers was 2,519 eggs, compared to 2,684 eggs in 2023. All layers in Nebraska during August 2024 totaled 8.63 million, up from 7.89 million the previous year, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Iowa: Iowa egg production during August 2024 was 1.10 billion eggs, down 7 percent from the previous August, according to the latest Chickens and Eggs report from the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. The average number of all layers on hand during August 2024 was 42.5 million, down 7 percent from last year. Eggs per 100 layers for August was 2,583, up slightly from a year ago.

August Egg Production Down 3 Percent
United States egg production totaled 9.08 billion during August 2024, down 3 percent from last year. Production included 7.77 billion table eggs, and 1.30 billion hatching eggs, of which 1.21 billion were broiler-type and 95.8 million were egg-type. The average number of layers during August 2024 totaled 370 million, down 3 percent from last year. August egg production per 100 layers was 2,451 eggs, up slightly from August 2023.
                                    
Total layers in the United States on September 1, 2024 totaled 372 million, down 3 percent from last year. The 372 million layers consisted of 307 million layers producing table or market type eggs, 61.6 million layers producing broiler-type hatching eggs, and 3.66 million layers producing egg-type hatching eggs. Rate of lay per day on September 1, 2024, averaged 79.3 eggs per 100 layers, up 1 percent from September 1, 2023.



Iowa corn director joins U.S. farmers in Japan trade mission

Mike Ver Steeg, Director of the Iowa Corn Growers Association and a farmer from Lyon County, represented U.S. farmers during the U.S. Meat Export Federation’s Heartland Trade Mission to Japan.

The mission aimed to study the Japanese market and explore opportunities to expand demand for U.S. red meat, focusing on beef, pork, and corn.

Japan is a key market for U.S. red meat, known for its emphasis on quality. The delegation included representatives from the U.S. beef, pork, corn, and soy sectors and participated in meetings with U.S. Embassy officials, Japanese trade representatives, and visits to a wagyu farm, processing operations, and local foodservice and retail establishments.

“As a producer, it is a great opportunity to meet face-to-face with our customers in-country to better understand their desire for our products,” said Ver Steeg. “Japan is a top market for both U.S. beef and pork, and building strong relationships is crucial for increasing U.S. red meat and corn exports.”

The Iowa Corn Promotion Board supports this effort by investing checkoff dollars with the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) to develop international markets for U.S. corn-fed red meat. Investments in USMEF’s export programs have shown significant returns, generating median net returns of $3.87 for beef and $7.42 for pork per dollar invested.

The Iowa Corn Promotion Board focuses on developing and defending markets, funding research, and educating about corn and corn products. The Iowa Corn Growers Association, with over 7,000 members, advocates for agricultural issues and supports Iowa corn farmers in achieving long-term profitability.

Ver Steeg’s participation in the mission reflects Iowa’s commitment to enhancing global trade and strengthening market opportunities for U.S. farmers.



Seasonal Reminders for Ventilation Maintenance and Safety

Fall is a great time to plan for seasonal ventilation maintenance and manure pit pump-out.

Brett Ramirez, an agriculture and biosystems engineer with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, says taking time now will help ensure these critical steps are completed before cold weather arrives.

“It’s critical to get barns ready for winter to help reduce heating costs and provide a good environment for the pigs,” he said. “Routine equipment inspections and maintenance will pay dividends in the long run, not only by extending the life of the equipment but also creating a good environment inside the barn.”

Along with ventilation maintenance, Ramirez reminds producers that pit pumping requires attention and awareness, with safety at the top of the list.

“We want to follow best practices for agitation; this is a key first step,” he said.

With best practices in mind, follow these safe operation procedures:
    Never enter the building while pumping — use caution tape, mark barn entrances, and alert everyone that pumping is occurring.
    If possible, remove animals from the portion of the barn where agitation and removal will occur.
    It may be worth investing in a gas monitor. If you have one, have it handy during pumping.
    Make sure someone is at the site during pumping, and that they have a copy of the emergency action plan.
    Prohibit smoking, open flames and spark-producing activities in the immediate vicinity.
    Observe animals for signs of noxious gas distress.

The Iowa Pork Industry Center’s Winter Ventilation Checklist AE3553B is a timely tool for this seasonal job. Available as a free download from the Iowa State University Extension Store, the checklist can be printed and laminated for use as needed. Because some of the tasks and checkpoints listed might not be intuitive for everyone, having it in hand with space for notes is helpful no matter who does the maintenance.



Cyclone Women Agree to NIL Deal with Iowa Pork Producers

Iowa State Cyclone women’s basketball players Audi Crooks, Kelsey Joens, Addy Brown and Alisa Williams have agreed to work with the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) to promote pork. In a video released Monday, the four sophomores on the Cyclone women’s basketball team showed up at the ‘Purchase Moore Hamann Bacon’ tryouts. However, they declined to be part of that promotion, while also expressing their love for pork. You can watch the video here.

The Iowa Pork Producers Association appreciates the Cyclone women’s support of the pork industry, and has agreed to an NIL (name, image, likeness) deal with all four players.

In conjunction with the partnership, the Iowa Pork Producers Association will donate $1,000 worth of pork to each player’s food pantry of choice. Their choices are:
    Audi Crooks - Kossuth County Food Pantry in Algona, Iowa
    Kelsey Joens - First Church United Food Pantry in West Liberty, Iowa
    Addy Brown – Derby Community Food Pantry in Derby, Kansas
    Alisa Williams - Denton Community Food Center in Denton, Texas

Audi Crooks, a sophomore center from Algona, Iowa, became the first freshman All-American in Iowa State women’s basketball history last year. This NIL partnership is not Crooks’ first experience with the Iowa Pork Producers Association. She earned the IPPA Top Producer Award for Class 1A during the 2023 Iowa girls state basketball tournament. Crooks scored 49 points in the state championship game, leading Bishop Garrigan High School to the title.

“It’s so cool to kind of come full circle to win that award from the Iowa Pork Producers in high school, and now be a part a partnership with Iowa Pork on the advertising side of it,” Crooks said.  

Audi Crooks’ incredible basketball skills and remarkable personality have garnered her a lot of attention. She’s thrilled to be part of the explosion in popularity of women’s basketball, and excited about the Cyclones’ chances on the court this season.

“I think it’s about time,” Crooks said. “Women’s basketball has always been great, but people are just starting to pay attention. It’s better late than never. We have super high hopes for this sport and this team. There’s really no limit to what we can do.”

Kelsey Joens, a sophomore guard from Iowa City, has her own connection to the pork industry. She worked in the family restaurant, Joensy’s, growing up. Joens’ father took over the restaurant from her grandfather in 2005. Pork tenderloins are their specialty, and Kelsey Joens expresses her fondness of pork tenderloins in the tryout video.

“I love pork tenderloins, so I was really excited to be part of this partnership,” Joens said. “I grew up working in the family restaurant. I would clear tables, get drinks for customers, and eventually waited tables and served customers, so with my background, I was thrilled to be able to promote pork.”

The breaded pork tenderloin sandwich is an Iowa staple, and the Iowa Pork Producers Association’s annual Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich Contest draws food lovers from across the Midwest to the winning restaurant each year.

Joens’ teammate Alisa Williams is also a big fan of pork. The sophomore forward from Denton, Texas was thrilled to secure an NIL deal to promote one of her favorite foods. “I'm so excited to be part of this,” Williams said. “I love bacon. I’m dead serious. I eat bacon every day.”

Cyclone sophomore forward Addy Brown enjoyed the ‘Purchase Moore Hamann Bacon’ promotion last year, so was thrilled to be asked to partner with Iowa Pork.

“I’m very excited. I think it’s a cool opportunity,” Brown said, “I remember seeing the commercial last year and I thought it was pretty funny so it’s cool to be a part of it and I’m excited to see how it turns out.”

While the women’s basketball players opted not to participate in tryouts for the ‘Purchase Moore Hamann Bacon’ promotion, the search continues for student athletes to join in that partnership. In a series of videos to be released every Monday at 10 a.m. through October 7, Myles Purchase, Tyler Moore, Tommy Hamann, and Caleb Bacon will continue to serve as a panel of judges as their fellow student-athletes try to join the pork roster. October is National Pork Month, aka ‘Porktober’.

In conjunction with the NIL partnership, the Iowa Pork Producers Association is donating $1,000 worth of pork to each participant’s food bank or food pantry of choice to help fight food insecurity.



September Cattle on Feed
Will Secor, Extension Livestock Economist, University of Georgia

The most recent Cattle on Feed report was released by USDA NASS last Friday, September 20. Reported figures were close to pre-report estimates. Reported cattle on feed as of September 1, 2024 was 0.6 percent above the same time last year. Cattle placed on feed in August was 1.4 percent below year ago levels, and fed cattle marketings for August came in approximately 3.6 percent below last year.

August placements totaled 1.975 million head, nearly 275 thousand above of last month and approximately 30 thousand below last year. Differences in placement weights were interesting. While most weight categories saw year-over-year declines (Under 600 lbs, 700-799 lbs, and 800-899 lbs), more heavier weight cattle were placed year-over-year.

Significant discussion has centered on high imports of feeder cattle from Mexico. While this may have played a role in this month’s report, market analysts appear to have already accounted for them with the reported placements in line with pre-report estimates. Looking forward, feeder cattle imports from Mexico have moved below or in-line with year-ago levels. This, combined with the additional weaned calves moving through sale barns this time of year, suggests the impact from these imports on next month’s report will be limited.

Marketings in August 2024 amounted to 1.818 million head. This was approximately 2 percent lower compared to July 2024 and about 4 percent lower year-over-year.

Interestingly, average daily fed cattle marketings were slightly higher year-over-year. August 2024 had 22 slaughter days compared to August 2023’s 23 slaughter days. Making this adjustment indicates that average daily marketings were approximately 0.8 percent higher in August 2024 compared to August 2023. The decline in marketings from July 2024 is in line with typical seasonal trends.

Cattle on feed number on September 1 this year was 11.198 million head. Cattle on feed on August 1, 2024 totaled 11.095. September 1’s total is an increase of 71 thousand head compared to last year. These figures were very close to pre-report estimates.

This report confirms that we have now begun the fall run-up in placements. In the coming months, expect more placements in general and more of those placements weighing less. As placements increase and marketings slow, cattle on feed should move higher month over month.

Monday September 23 Cattle on Feed + Ag News

United States Cattle on Feed Up 1 Percent

Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 11.2 million head on September 1, 2024. The inventory was 1 percent above September 1, 2023.

On Feed            (1,000 hd  -  % Sept 1 '23)
Colorado .......:        970          102            
Iowa .............:        660          103              
Kansas ...........:      2,280           95            
Nebraska .......:      2,320          102             
Texas ............:       2,750          100            

Placements in feedlots during August totaled 1.98 million head, 1 percent below 2023. Net placements were 1.92 million head. During August, placements of cattle and calves weighing less than 600 pounds were 395,000 head, 600-699 pounds were 305,000 head, 700-799 pounds were 435,000 head, 800-899 pounds were 485,000 head, 900-999 pounds were 265,000 head, and 1,000 pounds and greater were 90,000 head.

Placements     (1,000 hd  -  % Aug '23)
Colorado .......:      155           129            
Iowa .............:       75            97              
Kansas ...........:      535            97             
Nebraska .......:      495            97             
Texas ............:       415            94             

Marketings of fed cattle during August totaled 1.82 million head, 4 percent below 2023. Other disappearance totaled 54,000 head during August, 2 percent below 2023.

Marketings     (1,000 hd  -  % Aug '23)
Colorado .......:      140            97             
Iowa .............:        64            84             
Kansas ...........:      455            95              
Nebraska .......:      485            95               
Texas ............:       390            96              



NEBRASKA CATTLE ON FEED UP 2%

Nebraska feedlots, with capacities of 1,000 or more head, contained 2.32 million cattle on feed on September 1, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. This inventory was up 2% from last year. Placements during August totaled 495,000 head, down 3% from 2023. Fed cattle marketings for the month of August totaled 485,000 head, down 5% from last year. Other disappearance during August totaled 10,000 head, unchanged from last year.



IOWA CATTLE ON FEED UP 3%

Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in Iowa feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 660,000 head on September 1, 2024, according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Cattle on Feed report. This was up 2 percent from August and up 3 percent from September 1, 2023. Iowa feedlots with a capacity of less than 1,000 head had 475,000 head on feed, unchanged from last month but up 3 percent from last year. Cattle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in all Iowa feedlots totaled 1,135,000 head, up 1 percent from last month and up 3 percent from last year.

Placements of cattle and calves in Iowa feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head during August 2024 totaled 75,000 head, up 34 percent from July but down 3 percent from August 2023. Feedlots with a capacity of less than 1,000 head placed 51,000 head, up 50 percent from July but down 12 percent from August 2023. Placements for all feedlots in Iowa totaled 126,000 head, up 40 percent from July but down 7 percent from August 2023.

Marketings of fed cattle from Iowa feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 or more head during August 2024 totaled 64,000 head, up 16 percent from July but down 16 percent from August 2023. Feedlots with a capacity of less than 1,000 head marketed 48,000 head, down 33 percent from July and down 36 percent from August 2023. Marketings for all feedlots in Iowa were 112,000 head, down 12 percent from July and down 26 percent from August 2023. Other disappearance from all feedlots in Iowa totaled 4,000 head.



Apply to Serve on the NeFB Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee

Calling all passionate young leaders! Are you ready to make a difference in the farming and ranching community? Join the Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) Committee—a dynamic think tank fueled by fresh ideas and vibrant energy! This is your chance to help shape the future of Nebraska Farm Bureau and take your passion to new heights. Don’t wait! Applications are due October 1. Positions up for appointment include:
    Southwest Region - (Grant Jones, seated/eligible for re-appointment)
    North Central Region - (Daniel Hasart, seated/eligible for re-appointment)
    Northeast Region - Open
    South Central Region - Open
    Student at Large - (Two positions, Carson Maricle seated/eligible for re-appointment and Open)

Click here to apply.... https://www.nefb.org/yfr-committee-application/.



Nebraska Farm Bureau Leadership Academy Advocates for Action on the Farm Bill, Tax Code Reauthorization, and Labor in D.C.

Advocating on behalf of Nebraska Farm Bureau (NEFB) members across the state, NEFB Leadership Academy Cadets explained the vitality of a working Farm Bill to the Congressional Delegation during their national affairs trip to Washington, D.C. this week.

The visit capped off a yearlong leadership training program to help farmers and ranchers from across Nebraska with personal growth and development, public speaking skills, and training on how to advocate for Nebraska’s farm and ranch families.

“When Leadership Academy Cadets experience our government first-hand and interact with our elected officials, they can see the role they can play in making sure their right to farm and ranch stays protected,” said Jordan Dux, NEFB senior director of national affairs, who facilitated the Leadership Academy visit.

While discussion surrounding the Farm Bill continues, it remains one of the few opportunities legislators have to address the issues facing the agri-food value chain. Leadership Academy Cadets met with Nebraska’s Congressional Delegation and urged them to pass a bill that protects federal crop insurance and provides a needed update to many programs farmers and ranchers rely upon.

“The Farm Bill needs to at least continue to be extended which only provides a temporary solution to an ongoing problem. Knowing that I have a strong safety net to fall back on if my crop fails allows me to take a calculated risk when planning my crop for the year,” said Christopher Kuehn, row crop farmer and Leadership Academy Cadet from Kearney County.

In addition to advocating for federal crop insurance, Cadets recommended a legislative fix to combat the consequences of California’s Proposition 12 and Massachusetts’s Question 3. It is imperative that one state’s voters are not able to dictate food production practices for the entire country.

“As a livestock producer, ensuring the health and well-being of my livestock is my number one priority,” said Katie Nolles, cattle rancher and Leadership Academy Cadet from Holt County. “Having to change my safe production practices to meet the stipulations imposed by those removed from agriculture only hinders my ability to produce a safe, quality product for consumers to enjoy.”

Domestic workforce availability continues to be a concern for agriculturalists, making the H-2A program essential to carry out the everyday tasks in agriculture. In FY2023 alone, just under 4,000 H-2A positions were used in Nebraska. Though there has been growth in the program’s usage, it is still needlessly complicated and expensive to utilize this resource. After six straight years of exponential wage growth, agency overreach, and persistent congressional inaction, many agricultural operations, specifically small-to-medium-sized operations, are struggling to operate through this program.

“Passing the legislation that pauses the Adverse Effect Wage Rate for the H-2A at 2023 levels is crucial for the success of many agricultural operations,” said Dan Kristensen, row crop farmer and Leadership Academy Cadet from Kearney County. “Supporting H.R. 7046 and S. 874 will allow H-2A users to fairly pay their employees and ensure the long-term viability of their operation.”

Along with the Farm Bill and H-2A action, Cadets voiced their concerns about not extending the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA). The law that allows for reduced tax rates for farm and ranch businesses is set to expire in 2025.

“My operation would look very different without TCJA,” said Sam Gifford, Leadership Academy Cadet from Buffalo County. “Having tax code that provides certainty in an industry that is inherently uncertain allows me to continue to operate and grow my business.”

Last on their list of issues was the EPA’s proposed changes to federal pesticide regulations. These changes stem from a 2011 court settlement where EPA promised to make regulatory changes in order to better manage the regulatory relationship between crop protection products and endangered species. Unfortunately, the new proposed regulations could make it much more difficult for farmers to utilize many of the crop protection products they have come to rely upon.

“Farmers need as many tools as they can get in their toolbox when it comes to weed management. The changes EPA is proposing will make it much more difficult for me to use the products I need to kill weeds and help boost yields. This isn’t just about my producers’ bottom lines, this is about making sure we can continue to produce food, fiber, and fuel for our nation as well as the rest of the world,” Clade Anderson, a sales agronomist and Leadership Academy Cadet from Sherman County.

Leadership Academy members that participated in the visit to Washington, D.C. included:
    James McArtor (Perkins County Farm Bureau)
    Clade Anderson (Sherman/Valley County Farm Bureau)
    Christopher Kuehn (Kearney/Franklin County Farm Bureau)
    Katie Nolles (Holt County Farm Bureau)
    Sam Gifford (Buffalo County Farm Bureau)
    Dan Kristensen (Kearney/Franklin County Farm Bureau)

Besides visiting with Nebraska’s Congressional Delegation, the Nebraska Farm Bureau Leadership Academy met with officials from the New Zealand Embassy, House Agriculture Committee, Syngenta, and staff from American Farm Bureau.



Husker Harvest Days 2024: Successful ag show continues to innovate

Husker Harvest Days has set a new standard for agricultural events, delivering a comprehensive and interactive experience for farmers and ranchers. Over 27,000 people used the new online registration system for the 2024 show in Grand Island, Nebraska, reflecting the event’s significance in the Western Corn Belt and beyond.

The show featured a broad spectrum of experiences, allowing producers to engage directly with the latest machinery and inputs. Attendees participated in field demonstrations across more than 300 acres, including corn harvest, tillage and hay operations. The event also showcased an array of autonomous displays, a new cover crop plot and live cattle handling, providing valuable insights into advanced agricultural practices.

In addition to the machinery and livestock demonstrations, Husker Harvest Days 2024 introduced several new programs that were met with enthusiastic participation. In partnership with the University of Nebraska, the inaugural Women in the Field program by Farm Progress was a success, offering a platform for dialogue and learning among women in agriculture. The expanded education programming also featured prominently in the newly launched BEEF Showcase and the Hospitality Tent. Notable speakers included Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director Sherri Vinton, who addressed attendees on the future of agriculture in the state.

The event also set a new record for charitable giving with the collection of 16,000 pounds of food through the onsite United Way food drive, surpassing previous years and underscoring the event’s commitment to giving back to the community.

“Husker Harvest Days continues to offer unparalleled opportunities for farmers and ranchers to connect with the latest advancements in the industry,” said Don Tourte, Farm Progress vice president of sales and events. “We are proud to provide such a dynamic and interactive environment where attendees can gain firsthand experience with the newest technology and techniques.”

Matt Jungmann, Farm Progress national events director, echoed this sentiment, noting, “Our goal is to continually enhance the value of Husker Harvest Days by introducing innovative programs and expanding educational opportunities. This year’s success, including our new BEEF Showcase and Women in the Field program, highlights our commitment to supporting the agricultural community.”

Husker Harvest Days remains the world’s largest totally irrigated working farm show, featuring top irrigation companies and showcasing the best in irrigation technology. The 2025 event is scheduled to take place at the permanent site in Grand Island, Nebraska, from September 9-11.

For more information and updates on next year’s show, please visit the official website at www.HuskerHarvestDays.com.  



From 'Farm to Fork': September is National Food Safety Month

Everyone has a role to play in keeping food safe. September is National Food Safety Month, time to highlight safe food handling practices. There are many steps taken to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, before your food even reaches your home. This year’s Food Safety Month theme, “From Farm to Fork," emphasizes the chain of safe food handling practices that starts with producers and follows down the line to manufacturing and processing, distribution and delivery, to grocery stores and restaurants.

The Partnership for Food Safety Education estimates that each year, one in six people in the U.S. gets sick by consuming contaminated foods or beverages. Once you bring food to your home, you have an important role to play in reducing the risk of foodborne illness to help keep your family and friends healthy and safe. Remember these four core tips: clean, separate, cook and chill.
    Clean: Wash hands and surfaces before preparing food at home.
    Separate: Separate raw meat, poultry, and eggs from ready-to-eat foods.
    Cook: Use a food thermometer to make sure food is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
    Chill: Keep a constant fridge temperature of 40 °F using an appliance thermometer.

Learn more about food safety basics at fightbac.org.



August Milk Production in the United States down 0.1 Percent

Milk production in the United States during August totaled 18.8 billion pounds, down 0.1 percent from August 2023. Production per cow in the United States averaged 2,018 pounds for August,
8 pounds above August 2023. The number of milk cows on farms in the United States was 9.33 million head, 40,000 head less than August 2023, but unchanged from July 2024.

IOWA: Milk production in Iowa during August 2024 totaled 496 million pounds, unchanged from the previous August according to the latest USDA, National Agricultural Statistics Service – Milk Production report. The average number of milk cows during August, at 241,000 head, was unchanged from last month but up 1,000 from August 2023. Monthly production per cow averaged 2,060 pounds, down 5 pounds from last August.



Iowa Biodiesel Producers to U.S. Treasury: Without Safe Harbor Now, Biodiesel Supply Chain Could Grind to a Halt

Friday, Iowa biodiesel producers submitted a letter urging the U.S. Department of Treasury to take immediate action in issuing safe harbor guidance for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit. While the department is working to finalize the 45Z rules, most observers believe they will not be completed until well after January 1, 2025. The lack of safe harbor guidance is impacting the biodiesel supply chain today.

“Simply put, without immediate safe harbor guidance, the entire biodiesel supply chain could grind to a halt, resulting in lost farm income, laid off workers, unrealized carbon reductions, higher prices for consumers, and greater energy imports,” producers said in the letter submitted to Treasury today.

The letter comes after a meeting yesterday between Midwest congressional staff and Treasury officials on the new production credit, including the possibility of safe harbor guidance. During the meeting Treasury provided no timeline for finalizing the rule and did not commit to providing an interim safe harbor. The longstanding biodiesel blenders tax credit expires at the end of this year. While the new 45Z production credit is supposed to begin on January 1, 2025, without final rules or a safe harbor, the entire biodiesel supply chain is left in limbo.

“Without knowing the value of the new credit, feedstock suppliers don’t know how to price their products. Biodiesel producers don’t know how much to pay for feedstock or how to price their biodiesel. And retailers don’t know how much to pay for biodiesel or how to set the price for consumers… We urge you to pre-empt the disastrous implications of dramatically reducing biodiesel production by implementing a safe harbor until the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit rules are final,” stated the letter.



Naig Encourages Propane Consumers to Plan Ahead for Harvest, Winter Heating Needs

With harvest upon us and the winter months approaching, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is reminding propane consumers to top off their propane tanks. With strong supply and prices comparable to the start of last year’s heating season, this is a good time for propane users to ensure their home and livestock barn heating as well as grain drying needs are met.

“If you utilize propane to heat your home or livestock barn, or rely on it for grain drying, now is the right time to top off your tanks,” said Secretary Naig “It’s a good time to get prepared for harvest and the colder weather that will be coming.”

Data released by the United States Energy Information Administration (EIA) on September 18, for the week ending September 13, shows that nationwide propane stocks were at 99.1 million barrels (mb) or 124 days of supply. Midwest (PADD 2) propane stocks stood at 26.97 mb, which is nearly identical to where supplies stood one year ago (26.96 mb).

Throughout the fall and winter, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship compiles state average propane price in coordination with EIA. These findings will be found as part of the Department’s weekly fuel reports.

Iowa Propane Stakeholders Group
In the fall of 2019, Iowa experienced propane supply challenges because grain drying demands caused by the late planting season coincided with an early cold snap that increased livestock and home heating needs. Since then, Secretary Naig and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship have regularly convened a group of propane stakeholders, including the Governor’s office, members of the Iowa Legislature, Iowa Propane Gas Association, propane suppliers, and several agricultural groups, to anticipate and act on any propane supply chain issues. If farmers or agribusinesses experience propane shortages, they should notify Paul Ovrom of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship at 515-242-6239 or paul.ovrom@iowaagriculture.gov, or Michelle Wicker of the Iowa Propane Gas Association at 515-564-1260 or mwicker@iapropane.org.



Corn Growers Applaud House Vote to Overturn Tailpipe Emissions

The National Corn Growers Association applauded the U.S. House of Representatives Friday for passing a bill that would overturn tailpipe emissions standards by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that focus solely on using electric vehicles to lower greenhouse gas emissions.

“The members of Congress who passed this legislation understand well that there are many different tools that we can use to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Minnesota farmer and NCGA President Harold Wolle. “While it could take years to realize the potential that EVs offer, ethanol is an effective part of a portfolio of options for addressing climate concerns, and it is fully available for use today.”

In May, the EPA released its final 2027-2032 emissions standards for sedans and light- and medium-duty trucks. NCGA has expressed deep concerns that the plan relies almost exclusively on the use of electric vehicles, requiring that a majority of the specified fleets are electric in less than a decade. A decision of this magnitude will have long-lasting negative implications for the rural economy because it ignores the benefits of ethanol.  

It is uncertain whether the Senate will consider today’s legislation before the end of the year. NCGA is litigating in federal court against the rule.



FACA Welcomes New Steps to Encourage Growth of Voluntary Carbon Markets

The Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance (FACA) applauds the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) for taking steps to drive more integrity and confidence in the evolving voluntary carbon marketplace. These markets are a promising opportunity for farmers, ranchers, and forest owners across the country to access a new income stream for voluntarily adopting practices that reduce greenhouse gasses.

We appreciate Chairman Behnam’s leadership in ensuring these markets meet the needs of producers and look forward to reviewing the CFTC’s new guidance on criteria for high–quality credits. As proposed in December, this would be a major step forward for building transparency, integrity, and confidence in the marketplace.

FACA members are united in support of federal climate policy that is voluntary, grounded in science, and market-driven. See the full list of member organizations at www.agclimatealliance.com.



Statement of NCFC on CFTC Carbon Markets Guidance
Chuck Conner, president and CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives

“I would like to applaud the CFTC for its efforts to provide voluntary carbon markets with a framework for transparency and integrity. This guidance will provide valuable direction as the carbon markets continue to develop by helping ensure that those exchange traded contracts are credible and effective price discovery tools. I would particularly like to thank Chairman Behnam for his leadership on this issue and for fostering a collaborative approach that has been open to feedback from all stakeholders."

Friday September 20 Ag News

Rural Mainstreet Economy Fell to Early Pandemic Low - 40% of Farmers Expect to Lose Money in 2024

For a 13th straight month, the overall Rural Mainstreet Index (RMI) sank below growth neutral, according to the September survey of bank CEOs in rural areas of a 10-state region dependent on agriculture and/or energy.

Overall: The region’s overall reading for September sank to 37.5 from 40.9 in August. It was the lowest reading since the beginning of the pandemic in spring 2020. The index ranges between 0 and 100, with a reading of 50.0 that represents growth neutral.

“Weak agriculture commodity prices, sinking agriculture equipment sales and elevated input costs pushed the overall reading below growth neutral for the 13th straight month,” said Ernie Goss, PhD, Jack A. MacAllister Chair in Regional Economics at Creighton University’s Heider College of Business.

Farming and ranching land prices: For the fourth time in the past five months, farmland prices sank. The region’s farmland index fell to 43.8 from August’s 45.5. “Only 4.2% of bank CEOs reported that farmland prices expanded from August levels,” said Goss.

On average, bank CEOs expect farmland prices to decline by 5.3% in the next 12 months. “Of greater concern, approximately one-fourth of bankers anticipate a 10% to 20% downturn in farmland prices over the next year,” said Goss.

According to trade data from the International Trade Association, regional exports of agriculture goods and livestock for 2024 year-to-date were up by $57.0 million (0.8%) from the same period in 2023.

Farm equipment sales: The farm equipment sales index for September increased to 19.0 from 16.7. “This is the 14th straight month that the index has fallen below growth neutral. Higher borrowing costs, tighter credit conditions and negative farm income are having a negative impact on the purchases of farm equipment,” said Goss.

Across the region, bankers expect approximately 39.1% of farmers to experience negative 2024 farm income.

Below are the state reports:
Nebraska: The Nebraska RMI for September slumped to 35.1 from 36.5 in August. The state’s farmland price index for September dropped to 42.7 from 43.6 in August. Nebraska’s September new-hiring index sank to 42.7 from 43.1 last month. According to trade data from the International Trade Association, exports of agriculture goods and livestock for 2024 year-to-date were up by $140.1 million or 37.8% from the same period in 2023.

Iowa: September’s RMI for the state decreased slightly to 44.0 from 44.2 in August. Iowa’s farmland price index for September sank to 45.7 from 53.4 in August. Iowa’s new hiring index for September rose to 52.4 from August’s 51.6. According to trade data from the International Trade Association, exports of agriculture goods and livestock for 2024 year-to-date were down by $8.1 million or 0.8% from the same period in 2023.

The survey represents an early snapshot of the economy of rural agriculturally- and energy-dependent portions of the nation. The Rural Mainstreet Index is a unique index that covers 10 regional states, focusing on approximately 200 rural communities with an average population of 1,300. The index provides the most current real-time analysis of the rural economy. Goss and Bill McQuillan, former Chairman of the Independent Community Banks of America, created the monthly economic survey and launched it in January 2006.



Nebraska farm income surges to record $9.27 billion

The USDA Economic Research Service (ERS) reported that Nebraska’s net farm income surged to a record-setting $9.27 billion in 2023, a significant increase of $2.67 billion or 40 percent from 2022. This record level exceeded the previous high of $8.044 billion set in 2021 by more than $1 billion. Agricultural economists from the University of Nebraska and the University of Missouri had predicted last year’s income would be around $7 billion, making the new figures a surprising development.

The rise in Nebraska’s farm income marks the fifth increase in the last six years, with the state’s 40 percent growth second only to Oklahoma’s 44 percent increase. Nebraska was among just six states to experience income growth in 2023, while the national net farm income declined by 20 percent.

Livestock Sector Boosts Income:
The livestock sector was the primary driver of Nebraska’s income growth, with livestock receipts exceeding $18 billion for the first time, an increase of more than $2 billion from 2022.

Record-high cattle prices played a crucial role in this surge. Combined crop and livestock receipts reached a record $32.1 billion, making it the second consecutive year these receipts surpassed $32 billion. Nebraska’s receipts were the fourth highest in the nation, trailing only California, Iowa, and Texas.

Expenses and Government Payments:
Lower feed expenses, down by 24 percent, helped livestock producers increase profitability. While expenses for other inputs such as fertilizer, fuel, and electricity were up slightly by one percent, overall expenses rose by just three percent. This was a much smaller increase compared to previous years. Additionally, government payments contributed $624 million to the state’s income, up by $65 million from 2022.

Looking ahead, the ERS projects a four percent decline in U.S. net farm income for 2024. Nebraska’s updated farm income estimates are expected this fall, but it’s unlikely that the record $9 billion figure will be matched again this year.



Biden-Harris Administration Announces Final Awards through Landmark Meat and Poultry Processing Investment

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that USDA is awarding more than $35 million in grants to 15 independent meat processors in 12 states to increase processing capacity, spur competition to expand market opportunities for U.S. farmers and create jobs in rural areas. This marks the final investment in the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP), funded by President Biden’s American Rescue Plan, which was first launched in 2022.

The investments announced today also advance the President’s Investing in America agenda and support the Administration’s Action Plan for a Fairer, More Competitive, and More Resilient Meat and Poultry Supply Chain, which dedicates resources to expand independent processing capacity.

“For the past four years, the Biden-Harris Administration has advanced a sustainable vision of agriculture that prioritizes the needs of the hardworking producers and small business owners who keep rural communities strong,” Secretary Vilsack said. “Through investments like these, USDA is working to give farmers and ranchers a fair chance to compete in the marketplace, which will increase local food options and lower grocery costs for American families.”

Since the beginning of the program, USDA has provided 74 awards totaling more than $325 million through MPPEP to expand processing capacity and strengthen the food supply chain.

Many projects are still in development and have already increased the processing capacity at these facilities by more than 800,000 cattle, 14,000 hogs, 23 million chickens and 5 million turkeys annually. Additionally these projects are serving almost 900 additional meat and poultry producers and have created more than 1,200 new jobs.

As part of today’s announcement, the funding will help build new processing plants, create hundreds of jobs, give local producers and entrepreneurs better business opportunities, and give consumers more options at the grocery store. For example:

Nebraska - Borchard Custom Cut and Processing dba Dundy County Processors - $1,160,368
Dundy County Processors is a family-owned beef and pork processing business in rural Benkelman, Nebraska. Utilizing MPPEP - Phase 2 funding, they will construct a new facility to double processing capacity, begin operating under federal inspection, and significantly increase their production of value-added products. With this new increased capacity, they will be able to work with an additional 100 local producers. These improvements will also allow Dundy County Processors to access new wholesale and value-added markets.

The awards will benefit people living in Arkansas, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New York and Pennsylvania.



Watts selected to lead UNL Food Processing Center

Ellie Watts, an experienced leader with strong ties to Nebraska’s food processing industry, has been selected as the next Director of the Food Processing Center at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She will begin her new role Oct. 14.

Watts, a graduate of the UNL’s Food Science and Technology Department, has held a variety of roles within Nebraska’s food manufacturing and food processing sector. Over her 20-year career, she has held product development positions with TreeHouse Foods, Rembrandt Foods and ConAgra Brands. Most recently, she was the Director of Research and Development at ConAgra Brands.

Watts credits her UNL education, which included hands-on work in the Loeffel Meat Lab, with preparing her for a career in Food Science.

“It’s been really exciting to work in so many aspects of food processing, utilize the knowledge I learned at UNL as a student, dig into the industry, apply that to new product development, and now return to the University,” she said.

Located on Nebraska Innovation Campus and housed within the UNL Department of Food Science and Technology, the Food Processing Center is designed to support the food industry. The Food Processing Center provides a combination of consulting, educational, technical and business development services to both start-ups and established food businesses of all sizes. The director of the Food Processing Center manages business development relations, market the center’s capabilities, coordinates projects and ensures the center’s financial stability. The director also works to make sure the Food Processing Center is working collaboratively with the research, teaching and extension platforms of the university.

“The Food Processing Center plays a critical role in fulfilling our land-grant mission,” said Rich Bischoff, associate vice chancellor for UNL’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “Ellie brings a wonderful blend of leadership, passion, expertise and energy to her new role, and I am excited to see how the Food Processing Center grows and evolves under her leadership.”

Watts said she was looking forward to many things about beginning her new role. She is excited to work with university experts in microbiology, food for health and food allergens and other areas. She looks forward to meeting Food Science and Technology students, many of whom work at the center to develop foundational skills that serve them throughout their careers. And she is excited to work with food manufacturing businesses and entrepreneurs across Nebraska and elsewhere.

“What I think is so exciting about the food industry is food is so personal for people.  With food, you are nourishing your family, you’re entertaining, you’re taking care of your health,” Watts said. “And at the Food Processing Center, we can leverage our largest industry and support our commodities while also creating something really personal for consumers.”



Commercial Red Meat Production Down 2 Percent from Last Year

Commercial red meat production for the United States totaled 4.59 billion pounds in August, down 2 percent from the 4.68 billion pounds produced in August 2023.

Beef production, at 2.29 billion pounds, was 3 percent below the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.70 million head, down 7 percent from August 2023. The average live weight was up 37 pounds from the previous year, at 1,388 pounds.

Veal production totaled 3.1 million pounds, 26 percent below August a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 17,000 head, down 36 percent from August 2023. The average live weight was up 40 pounds from last year, at 313 pounds.

Pork production totaled 2.29 billion pounds, down slightly from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.9 million head, down 2 percent from August 2023. The average live weight was up 4 pounds from the previous year, at 282 pounds.

Lamb and mutton production, at 10.5 million pounds, was down 1 percent from August 2023. Sheep slaughter totaled 176,400 head, 4 percent below last year. The average live weight was 117 pounds, up 4 pounds from August a year ago.

By State    (million pounds - % of Aug '23)
Nebraska ......:       660.9            100       
Iowa ............:        743.6             97       
Kansas .........:        508.9             99       

January to August 2024 commercial red meat production was 36.4 billion pounds, up 1 percent from 2023. Accumulated beef production was down 1 percent from last year, veal was down 14 percent, pork was up 2 percent from last year, and lamb and mutton production was up 2 percent.



Iowa Governor’s Delegation, India Businesses Form Coalition for Future Development

The Honorable Kimberly (Kim) K. Reynolds, Governor of the State of Iowa, met with key agribusiness leaders during a roundtable discussion hosted by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) in Mumbai on September 16, 2024. This meeting was a part of a larger trade mission being led by the Governor to explore investment opportunities, build relationships and expand trade in India.

Reflecting on the event, Governor Reynolds added, “During my time in India, I have learned that Iowa’s and India’s values and agricultural goals are aligned in many ways. This coalition demonstrates the strong relationship our two countries have and will be a catalyst for long-term success. Iowa is not only a great place to work, live, and invest but it can be a strong partner for agricultural trade to support India’s growth in the years to come.”

In 2022, U.S.-India trade of goods and services was valued at an estimated $191.8 billion.[1] But the potential for bilateral trade expansion and economic growth is yet to be unlocked. India and Iowa share many commonalities, as both rely on agriculture as the foundation for their economy.  For example, India is a leading country in egg production and Iowa is the largest producer of eggs in the United States.

Under Governor Kim Reynolds’ leadership, the India/Iowa coalition was formed with Balram Yadev of Godrej Agrovet and Brent Johnson of the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation as inaugural co-chairs, with USSEC as the convener. This significant partnership aims to increase cooperation in mutually beneficial activities focusing on food and nutrition security. Both India and Iowa are already aligned in their efforts toward workforce development, with Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Skills India’ initiative and Governor Reynolds’ ‘Preparing Iowa’s Next-Gen Workforce’ vision highlighting common goals in developing human capital and driving economic growth.

Remarking on this achievement, Mr. Yadev, Managing Director of Godrej Agrovet added “Collaboration is a key pillar to achieving success.  Both Iowa and India share many agricultural commonalities and we’re proud to be a co-chair on this historic achievement. Our actions here will pave the way for prosperity for many years to come.”

USSEC works in international markets across the globe, advancing global nutrition through capacity-building, knowledge sharing and delivering solutions across animal and human utilization sectors. This new alliance between India and Iowa will help expand market access, paving the way for a food and nutrition secure future.

“As India’s economy rapidly expands, two common constraints will emerge—access to raw materials and upskilling its labor force.  USSEC stands at the vanguard of addressing these two challenges and we’re proud to bring together a coalition of India titans and partners from Iowa to act as a catalyst for India’s continued growth,” remarked Kevin Roepke, Regional Director for South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa for the U.S. Soybean Export Council.

Other notable attendees at the roundtable included The Honorable Michael (Mike) Naig, Secretary of Agriculture for the State of Iowa; Brent Swart, President – Board of Directors of the Iowa Soybean Association; Sandeep Singh, CEO of Bunge India; Sanjeev Asthana, CEO of Patanjali and Sudhakar Desai, CEO of Emami.



IFBF Hosts Summer Policy Conference in West Des Moines

Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) voting delegates discussed and debated issues impacting Iowa farmers and rural communities during the two-day Iowa Farm Bureau Summer Policy Conference in West Des Moines early this month. The policies shaped by county Farm Bureau voting delegates provide the roadmap for the organization’s policy advocacy in 2025.

“Our unique grassroots policy development process includes input from all 100 county Farm Bureaus who surface and prioritize issues throughout the year,” said Iowa Farm Bureau President Brent Johnson.  “Members should be proud of their year-long effort to research, discuss and enact meaningful policy to move Iowa agriculture forward.”

Voting delegates discussed a variety of important state and national issues, including the USDA Young and Beginning Farmer Loan Program.  As agriculture faces several current economic challenges, delegates supported policy to improve the efficiency and loan options for the USDA Young and Beginning Farmer Loan Program.

Other policy discussions included livestock disease transmission, fence maintenance on government land, crop carbon intensity scoring and unmanned aerial system spraying, resulting in the established policies that will guide the organization in 2025.  As Iowa’s largest general farm organization, members representing all sectors of Iowa agriculture, and every county in the state, shared personal examples to highlight the impacts of policies on their farms.

IFBF’s Summer Policy Conference is the final step of the year-round grassroots policy process in each of the 100 county Farm Bureaus across the state. The policy set by delegates guides the organization’s policy direction for the upcoming year.  National policies are subject to debate during American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) policy discussions, which will take place at the AFBF Annual Convention in San Antonio, Texas, January 24-29, 2025.



Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team Applications Now Open

Applications are open for the Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team (CAT) program, which focuses on increasing college students’ understanding of the corn industry. During the one-year program, students will visit the Capitol, tour industry leaders' operations and expand their network and knowledge outside of the classroom. Applications are available on Iowa Corn’s website and are due September 27, 2024.  

“The Iowa Corn Collegiate Advisory Team (CAT) has had a profound impact on my agricultural journey, fostering both personal and professional growth,” said Delia Swanson of Iowa State College of Agriculture & Life Sciences. “Through my involvement with the CAT Team, I had the opportunity to network with peers from various colleges and universities across Iowa, all united by a shared passion for the agricultural industry. Building connections within the agricultural sector is so important, and programs like CAT play a vital role in helping young individuals, like myself, establish these networks early on in their lives.”

"Developing strong leaders is essential at Iowa Corn," said Ralph Lents, President of the Iowa Corn Promotion Board. "We, along with other commodity organizations, count on the leadership of dedicated farmers and producers to steer us forward. The Collegiate Advisory Team helps cultivate the careers and leadership potential of the next generation of farmers and agricultural industry leaders."

2024- 2025 Schedule of Events:
    Session 1: November 7-8, 2024 – Iowa Corn Office – Johnston, IA
    Session 2: January 23-24, 2025 – Capitol Visit & Iowa Corn Office – Des Moines, IA
    Session 3: April 3-4, 2025 – Iowa Corn Office, Farm Tour or Industry Tour
    2025 Iowa Corn Grassroots Summit (optional) – All college students and ICGA members are invited

Any post-secondary student who has completed high school and is attending an Iowa college of university to pursue a career in agriculture is encouraged to apply. If you or someone you know might be interested, please contact Denise Forney, Iowa Corn Vice President of Talent and Organizational Development at dforney@iowacorn.org. For more information, visit www.iowacorn.org/CAT.   



Naig Urges Iowans to ‘Keep Safety Top of Mind’ this Harvest Season

With the busy harvest season commencing across the state, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is urging Iowans to keep safety top of mind in the field, around the farm and on the road. In recognition of National Farm Safety and Health Week, Secretary Naig has provided some safety tips for both farmers and drivers as well as resources for Iowans needing mental health support.

“As we enter this busy harvest season, I’m urging everyone to keep safety top of mind. There will be a lot of large equipment in the fields and on the road at all hours of the day and night, so I encourage everyone to slow down, show patience and give each other some grace. Let’s all do our part to ensure a safe and productive harvest season for everyone in the field, around the farm and on the road,” said Secretary Naig. “Given the stress, long hours and challenges in the ag economy, it’s also important for farmers and those involved in agriculture to prioritize their mental health and well-being. No one should have to face these challenges and struggles alone; there are resources and help available to Iowans.”

Farming can be physically exhausting and mentally demanding, and agriculture remains one of the most dangerous industries in America. By incorporating the following safety tips and resources, we can better ensure a safe and productive harvest season.

For Drivers and Road Safety
    Be Patient: Farm equipment often moves slowly. Be patient and wait for a safe opportunity to pass, considering that it may be difficult to see around large machinery.
    Keep a Safe Distance: Stay a safe distance behind farm equipment, especially when that equipment is turning or slowing down, to avoid collisions.
    Signal Awareness: Be aware that farm equipment may make wide turns and may not always be able to signal. Watch for hand signals or other indicators from operators.
    Avoid Distractions: Stay focused on the road and avoid distractions like texting or using your phone when driving near farm equipment.

For Farmers
    Safe Operation: Avoid shortcuts and stay alert while operating machinery.
    Emergency Equipment: Ensure a first-aid kit is well stocked, a fire extinguisher is in working order and your cell phone is charged and easily accessible at all times.
    Equipment Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain all farm machinery. Ensure that guards are in place and signals, lights and safety features are functioning properly.
    Proper Training: Follow the guidelines for operating equipment. Ensure that everyone operating farm equipment has proper training.
    Protective Gear and Chemical Storage: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles and hearing protection. Store chemicals in their original containers with proper labels and always use them according to their label.
    Safety Around Grain Bins: Never enter a grain bin unless necessary and only if you have proper training and safety equipment. Do not work alone.

Mental Health
    Stress Management: Engage in stress-relief activities and take breaks when needed. Activities such as exercise and hobbies as well as plenty of sleep can help.
    Talk About It: If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed, do not hesitate to reach out to family, friends or mental health professionals. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has farm stress resources available that were created in part through a grant from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.  
    Iowa Concern Hotline: The Iowa Concern Hotline at 1-800-447-1985 offers confidential mental health support and resources for those in need.

For additional resources on farm safety and wellness, visit the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety, Iowa’s Center for Agricultural Safety and Health, or the North Central Farm and Ranch Assistance Center.



U.S. Grains Council Builds Relationships In Panama

Earlier this month, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) held a feed pelleting training for a major agricultural association in Panama to help enhance its feed formulas and improve livestock health. Pictured, USGC Marketing Specialist for Latin America (LTA) Angelica Rios (front, center) and USGC Feed Grains Consultant Alejandro Gonzalez (rear, leftmost) pose with attendees during the training seminar.

To strengthen and increase U.S. corn and corn co-product exports to Panama, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) recently engaged with Coopagro, an association of 29 aquaculture, pork and poultry producers in the country, to conduct a feed pelleting training program for its members.

“Coopagro requested this training to enhance the efficiency of its pelleting operations and providing a great opportunity for the Council to gain a deeper understanding of the needs and use applications of different grains among Panamanian producers,” said Angelica Rios, USGC marketing specialist for Latin America (LTA).

Coopagro serves its membership by consolidating supply and production chains to offer a reliable and competitively priced source of animal feed. The organization accounts for nearly 20 percent of Panama’s annual corn imports, purchasing 120,000 metric tons each year, making it a valuable partner for the Council and the U.S. agricultural industry.

Rios was joined by USGC Feed Grains Consultant Alejandro Gonzalez and Auburn University Poultry Science Extension Specialist and Associate Professor Wilmer Pacheco for the program that attracted 20 stakeholders from Panamanian agricultural sectors.

The training began with an overview of the feed pelleting process, including strategies to improve mash conditioning, equipment operation, pellet quality and how to formulate diets depending on species. The program continued with several visits to local farms to observe how producers are using and implementing the pelleting process to enhance operational efficiency.

After the program, Rios and USGC Regional Director for LTA Marri Tejada met with Javier Ho, dry bulk leader at the Panama Canal Authority, to maintain a mutually beneficially relationship with the vitally important trade conduit.

“The U.S. and Panama enjoy a healthy trade partnership, and collaborating with organizations like Coopagro will be essential to increase U.S. corn exports to the country, especially as consumer demand for protein continues to rise,” Rios said. “This training program will result in higher-quality animal feed that benefits the livelihood of Panamanian producers and consumers and promotes livestock health, and simultaneously expands a market for U.S. growers.”

Thursday September 19 Ag News

Feeder and Live Cattle Markets Face Mixed Signals as Fall Approaches
Elliott Dennis, UNL Associate Professor, Livestock Marketing Specialist

As the cattle market reopened following Labor Day, feeder and live cattle futures weakened to contract low levels of resistance. The October feeder cattle contract ended on a down note at approximately $230, as the market continues to grapple with whether prices will rise this fall amid uncertainty over how many heifers will go through sale barns. A significant factor contributing to current market conditions is the deterioration of pasture conditions, which has led to expectations that some feeder cattle will be brought to market earlier. However, this impact is tempered by a large hay crop and the availability of cheap feed, both of which are already being priced into the market.

Of the 12 states that contribute to the CME Feeder Cattle Index, 10 reported price declines over the past week. Nebraska, however, stood out as an exception, with a strong rebound in the prices of 500-600 lb. cattle, surging to nearly $340 per cwt. after several weeks of decline. Meanwhile, prices for 700-800 lb. cattle in Nebraska have stabilized at around $260 per cwt. Looking ahead, the basis—a measure of the difference between cash market prices and futures prices—is expected to remain high. Currently, the basis stands around +30 for 700-800 lb. cattle and +75 for 500-600 lb. steers in Nebraska, reflecting strong cash market conditions. These levels are near all-time highs, suggesting solid market appreciation for feeder cattle prices despite broader volatility. The anticipation of herd rebuilding during the fall and winter could further drive prices higher, potentially continuing into 2025.

Live Cattle Market Mirrors Feeder Market Uncertainty
The live cattle market reflects similar uncertainties. The December contract dropped by $5 per cwt. over the past week, with resistance remaining around $173. There is a possibility that the market could move another $1.50 lower to reach a resistance level similar to that of December 2023. To push beyond this level, however, a significant market driver would be required.

Several factors could impact live cattle prices in the coming months, including feed costs and carcass weights. Feed costs are decreasing due to a historically large corn crop and low-priced distillers' grains, which reduces the cost of feeding cattle for longer periods. However, there is ongoing debate over whether producers will aim for heavier weights on existing cattle rather than placing relatively more expensive feeder cattle. Harvest weights are unusually high but are beginning to align with seasonal patterns. If current trends continue, steer weights could reach 960 pounds by the fall, creating challenges for feedlots, some of which have already faced heavy cattle discounts. It remains to be seen whether processing plants will be able to manage a lower cattle supply with heavier weights profitably. The narrowing Choice-Select spread, which reflects an increased preference for leaner beef, is likely to play a role in these decisions.

Shifting Beef Cutout Dynamics
One driver of the narrowing Choice-Select spread is the strong market for ground beef, which is made from beef trimmings. Beef trimmings from fed cattle are typically 50% lean, while those from cull cows are 90% lean. These two products are often mixed in a five-to-one ratio to produce an 80/20 lean-to-fat blend. Currently, there is a shortage of lean beef products in the market, which incentivizes producers to focus on producing more select carcasses. This trend is partly driven by the high cutout value for cull cows, which is around $290 per hundredweight (cwt). For comparison, the cutout value for Choice steers is $310 per cwt, meaning that all products from a cull cow carcass are almost as valuable as those from a fed steer.

These high prices are encouraging significant pull-through of cattle for slaughter. Earlier in the year, most of the slaughtered cows came from beef herds, but in recent weeks, there has been a shift toward dairy cows. This shift reflects the extremely strong demand for ground beef products, which is currently driving the market. As we move into the fall, it remains to be seen whether this demand will continue and whether consumers will be willing to pay higher prices for basic products like ground beef.



NFS Hosts Trees, People and Towns Conference in Lincoln

The Nebraska Forest Service is pleased to announce the Trees, People and Towns Conference at the University of Nebraska Lincoln, Oct. 15-17, 2024. The conference brings together tree advocates, practitioners, tree-board members, parks or public works personnel, planners, community leaders, city administrators, city clerks, non-profits, or those responsible for community trees in small towns and mid-sized cities.

"We are excited to bring this conference to Nebraska," said Christina Hoyt, bureau chief for the Nebraska Forest Service. "This is an opportunity for those involved with community trees to walk away inspired and with tangible ideas to bring back to their communities. The speaker line-up is top-notch."

Attendees will participate in insightful discussions, engaging presentations, hands-on workshops, field experiences, and networking opportunities. Topics will focus on strengthening community forestry policy, practices, partnerships, and public engagement. The agenda includes:
    Oct. 15: A morning Tree City USA, Tree Line USA, and Tree Campus Higher Education celebration, followed by a Pre-Conference workshop on Tree Risk Management in the afternoon.
    Oct. 16: Tree, People and Towns conference and evening networking event
    Oct. 17: Field experiences in the morning, followed by the Nebraska Statewide Arboretum Curator’s meeting in the afternoon.

This event is hosted by the University of Nebraska IANR-Nebraska Forest Service, Nebraska Community Forestry Council, Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, University of Nebraska Community and Regional Forestry Program, Colorado State Forest Service, Kansas State Forest Service, Wyoming State Forestry Division, South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Resource Conservation and Forestry Division and the USDA Forest Service Region 2.

Those interested can find out more and register by visiting nfs.unl.edu/workshops or contact Christina Hoyt at choyt2@unl.edu for any questions. Registration closes on Oct. 1, 2024.



HUSKER FINDINGS BOOST UNDERSTANDING OF SORGHUM’S PEST RESISTANCE

Husker scientists have identified a key plant hormone that strengthens sorghum self-protection against the threat of the sugarcane aphid. The federally funded project is part of the university’s wide-ranging, multidisciplinary work to advance understanding of sorghum’s natural defenses against the pest.

University of Nebraska–Lincoln scientists, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service, pointed to the significance of auxin/IAA metabolism and auxin conjugate IAA-Asp, which are involved in various aspects of plant growth and development.

Sorghum resistance was greater when the plants had a higher level of the identified IAA-Asp hormone due to a mutation in the gene Bmr12, said Joe Louis, Harold W. Eberhard Professor of Agricultural Entomology. Husker researchers are primarily focused on how the mutation of this gene affects the aphid population and the mechanism behind it, he said.

After identifying the importance of the IAA-Asp hormone, researchers added varying amounts of it to the aphid diet and found it boosted sorghum’s natural pest resistance.

The researchers’ findings recently appeared in the journal New Phytologist.

Natural defenses for sorghum are intended as a supplement to other measures such as pesticides and genetically modified plants. Adding that natural protection may provide more durable and sustainable protection overall, Louis said.

The sugarcane aphid has been a serious pest for sorghum in the United States since 2013, causing damage in multiple ways.

First, aphids use their needle-like mouthpart to pierce the plant and suck out nutrients without any visible damage initially to the plant. Second, the pests’ excretions, or honeydew, cover parts of the plant and disrupt photosynthesis crucial to the plant’s well-being. Third, aphids can transmit viral diseases.

“If the plants survive and are ready for harvest and there is a lot of honeydew, the harvester gets clogged,” Louis said.

The Husker project is unique for its a “holistic” multidisciplinary approach to this area of science, he said. The researchers pursue high-level study of cells and tissues, as well as biochemical, electrophysiological and computational analysis.

Louis and his colleagues will follow up by studying whether the hormone is effective in boosting plant resistance to other types of aphids. They also will look for additional biological factors possibly affecting sorghum’s level of natural self-protection.

The project illustrated the university’s tradition, extending back to the late 1800s, of research collaboration with U.S. Department of Agriculture scientists. A co-author of the New Phytologist paper is Scott Sattler, adjunct professor of agronomy and horticulture and research leader with the USDA Agricultural Research Service Wheat, Sorghum and Forage Research Unit on East Campus.

In addition to Louis, the other co-authors are Sajjan Grover and Heena Puri, doctoral alumni in entomology; De-Fen Mou, former postdoctoral research associate in entomology; Kumar Shrestha, postdoctoral research associate in entomology, and Lise Pingault, senior research associate in entomology.

A National Science Foundation CAREER grant to Louis supported the project, as did a grant from USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture to Louis and Sattler.

The project took interesting twists and turns, beginning with study of lignin, a polymer providing cell wall stability and aiding water transport. Louis and his colleagues initially thought changes in lignin levels were central to understanding resistance to the aphid. But the findings didn’t square with that hypothesis.

“To our surprise, we found it has nothing to do with lignin,” Louis said. “That made us think, what else is going on? So we started looking at using all these different technologies available here.”

The scientists’ multidisciplinary analysis “helped us narrow down to this compound, the indole-3-acetic acid, conjugated with the amino acid aspartate,” he said. “Then, we tested it directly into the aphid diet, and we found this compound is providing resistance to the aphid.”

Such perambulations of research are an expected part of complex scientific inquiry, Louis said.

“This is the way science works,” he said. “We started somewhere, and we ended somewhere else. But that's the fun part of doing science.”



Corn residue grazing project info to be shared in webinar

If you were interested in learning more about the grazed corn residue project but just couldn't make the Creston field day work in your schedule, we have good news! The event has been changed to a free webinar-only format on the same date beginning at the same time, September 24 at 10 a.m.

Harvest season is just around the corner, and with it comes an abundance of corn residue ready for cattlemen to utilize. When planning how many grazing days are available, Iowa State University extension program specialist Beth Reynolds said it’s important to look at some potential positive changes in that number.

"It's time to take the traditional guidelines and apply considerations for the impact improved plant varieties and harvest methods have on the residual product available to graze," she said. "Being able to more accurately predict the feed value of corn residue is an important step for producers looking for avenues to be more efficient with their winter feeding plan.”

The Iowa Beef Center has partnered with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln to host the program, which will specifically highlight a recently completed research project at University of Nebraska–Lincoln funded by the Iowa Beef Checkoff. Dr. Mary Drewnoski, associate professor and extension beef systems specialist at UNL, led the project and said the study was designed to identify how the implementation of modern-day chopping corn heads has impacted the feed value of grazed corn residue.  

Webinar agenda topics and approximate schedule:
    10 a.m. Lease or rental agreement considerations
    10:45 a.m. Chopping corn residue impact on feed value
    11:30 a.m. Determining stocking rates and agronomic impacts
    12:30 p.m. Nutritional considerations grazing residue

Speakers are from UNL and ISU, including Drewnoski and Reynolds. The program has been made possible in part by the USDA and the Iowa Forage and Grassland Council.

Register here https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aVj1y3OfN4GjtUq and receive the link to the webinar. The program will be recorded and that video link sent to registered participants when available.

For more information, email bethr@iastate.edu or call 515-294-BEEF (2333).



Three Fertilizer Prices Down Significantly in Second Week of September

For the first time in eight weeks, multiple average retail fertilizer prices showed considerable declines during the second week of September 2024, according to sellers surveyed by DTN. Prices for seven of the eight major fertilizers were lower compared to last month. In addition, three fertilizers had sizeable price declines. DTN designates a significant move as anything 5% or more.

Potash led the way lower, down 8% from a month ago, with an average price of $464. Both 10-34-0 and UAN32 were 7% less expensive with 10-34-0 having an average price of $596 per ton and UAN32 $351/ton. 10-34-0 was below the $600/ton level for the first since the first week of January 2024. That week the average price was $599/ton. Four other fertilizers were slightly lower compared to last month. DAP had an average price of $735/ton, MAP $808/ton, urea $489/ton and UAN28 $329/ton.

One fertilizer was slightly more expensive. Anhydrous had an average price of $684/ton, up $6 per ton from last month.

On a price per pound of nitrogen basis, the average urea price was $0.53/lb.N, anhydrous $0.42/lb.N, UAN28 $0.59/lb.N and UAN32 $0.55/lb.N.

Prices for all except two fertilizers are lower compared to one year ago. DAP is 4% higher while MAP is 9% higher looking back to last year. Prices for the remaining six fertilizers are lower. 10-34-0 is 1% lower, anhydrous is 2% less expensive, both potash and UAN28 are 7% lower, UAN32 is 10% lower and urea is 12% lower compared to last year.



Weekly Ethanol Production for 9/13/2024

According to EIA data analyzed by the Renewable Fuels Association for the week ending September 13, ethanol production pared back 2.9% to a 12-week low of 1.05 million b/d, equivalent to 44.06 million gallons daily. Still, output was 7.0% more than the same week last year and 12.7% above the five-year average for the week. The four-week average ethanol production rate declined 1.2% to 1.07 million b/d, which is equivalent to an annualized rate of 16.37 billion gallons (bg).

Ethanol stocks ticked up 0.3% to a 7-week high of 23.8 million barrels. Stocks were 9.7% more than the same week last year and 11.4% above the five-year average. Inventories built across all regions except the Midwest (PADD 2).

The volume of gasoline supplied to the U.S. market, a measure of implied demand, improved by 3.5% to 8.78 million b/d (134.90 bg annualized). Demand was 4.4% more than a year ago and 0.9% above the five-year average.

Refiner/blender net inputs of ethanol followed, rising 1.8% to 908,000 b/d, equivalent to 13.96 bg annualized. Net inputs were 1.9% more than year-ago levels and 2.2% above the five-year average.

Ethanol exports were estimated at a robust 151,000 b/d (6.3 million gallons/day) despite a 14.7% decline from the prior week. It has been a full year since imports of ethanol were reported by EIA.



JBS unlocks renewable gas production at US beef and poultry plants

JBS USA will produce renewable natural gas at multiple beef and poultry processing plants as part of a new partnership with GreenGasUSA, the meat giant said Tuesday.

The collaborators plan to collect methane from wastewater streams at JBS facilities using GreenGasUSA’s on-site upgrading systems, which can purify biogas into pipeline-quality renewable natural gas.

The company said it will begin installing GreenGasUSA’s systems at JBS-owned processing plants in Nebraska, South Carolina and Utah, and plans to complete the additions next year.

Through advancements in technology and innovation, JBS and other meatpackers are turning to renewable natural gas, an energy source produced from manure and other waste streams, as a potential sustainability solution that can generate untapped revenues.

GreenGasUSA is a Charleston, South Carolina-based provider of renewable natural gas assets, including anaerobic digesters and gas purification infrastructure. The partnership comes as JBS focuses its efforts to reduce methane emissions from its organic waste lagoons, with the meat giant initiating more than 25 projects over the past five years.

By diverting methane from processing plants and injecting the transformed fuel into existing energy pipelines, the project with GreenGasUSA will displace the emissions equivalent of 60 million miles driven by a car, or 26 million pounds of coal burned, annually, according to a release.

“This innovative approach takes what was once an unused byproduct of food production and transforms it to offset a significant amount of fossil fuels,” CEO Wesley Batista Filho said in a statement.

JBS is set to pilot GreenGasUSA’s systems at beef facilities in Grand Island, Nebraska and Hyrum, Utah, as well as at a Pilgrim’s Pride chicken plant in Sumter, South Carolina. Construction and installation is slated for completion in 2025.

These efforts come as environmental activists step up a campaign against JBS’ plan to list shares on the New York Stock Exchange over the meat giant’s environmental record. Climate groups have pressured the livestock industry to do more on climate, and called on JPMorgan Chase, Citigroup and other large banks to stop financing global meat and dairy companies.



New era of value-added calf programs shows what buyers value

Quality nutrition is at a premium in an evolving feeder calf market. For several decades, value-added programs have emphasized health protocols and genetics. Now, nutrition is taking its rightful place by factoring into buying decisions.
 
“Cow-calf producers can certainly benefit from being involved with value-added programs that highlight nutrition,” says Ted Perry, cattle nutritionist with Purina Animal Nutrition. “These programs truly make better cattle. The calves are hardier, have a better immune system and are more ready to go to the feedyards.”
 
Mineral nutrition program
Last year, Purina Animal Nutrition introduced the Purina® Wind and Rain® Mineral Value-Added Program, one of the first feeder calf programs to provide buyers with calves that have a foundation built on quality mineral nutrition. Calves enrolled in the program receive vitamins and minerals from conception to weaning.
 
Enrollment requirements for the Purina® Wind and Rain® Mineral Value-Added Program include:
    Work with a local Purina® dealer to enroll in the program.
    Feed dams Purina® Wind and Rain® Mineral or Purina® RangeLand® Pro mineral for the full year in which you are raising the calves. A minimum of two bags of loose mineral per cow or one 225-pound mineral tub per two cows must be fed for the year.
    Qualifying calves receive Purina® mineral as part of their nutrition program from conception through sale delivery.

“It’s one of the simplest yet effective value-added programs available,” says Perry. “And, if you want to participate in other programs, you still have the option to pair it with the Purina® Wind and Rain® Mineral Value-Added Program.”
 
Calves buyers want
By feeding a high-quality, complete mineral program, you help set calves up for optimal health and performance in the next phase, which helps drive profitability across the value chain. Buyers have the extra assurance that the calves they are purchasing will have a foundation for performance.
 
“Cattle buyers are looking for calves fed a complete mineral program so they’ll have an active immune system,” says Perry.
 
Superior Livestock Auction sales data from 2023 shows that by participating in the Purina® Wind and Rain® Mineral Value-Added Program, you could see sizable average premiums of up to $31 per head.
 
“That’s about 2% more value added to calves,” says Perry. “It’s worth it to me if I’m buying calves and they’ve been in this program because I know those calves will have a primed immune system.”
 
Calves enrolled in the Purina® Wind and Rain® Mineral Value-Added Program are currently available for purchase at both Superior Livestock Auction and Western Video Market sales, along with participating local livestock auctions.