Farmweek august 11 2014

Tuesday’s USDA crop report should provide a closer look at corn and soybean yield potential. page 3

Monday, August 11, 2014

Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack talks about new farm bill programs and “more work to be done.” page 4

MAKING STATE FAIR MEMORIES

‘Waters of the U.S.’ focus of meetings held across Illinois

Two sections Volume 42, No. 32

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

Above, Sarah Brown of Jacksonville talks about one of her prize rabbits with Butch Hall of Tuscola, an Illinois State Fair rabbit showmanship judge. Brown showed the grand champion rabbit meat pen, which will be auctioned at the Sale of Champions Tuesday night. Right, Illinois State Fair attendees celebrate 161 years of making memories. The fair concludes Sunday.

(Photos by Cyndi Cook)

Illinois Farm Bureau’s fiveday “waters of the U.S.” roadshow ended Friday, but there’s at least one more chance to learn about the proposed rule.

Jefferson and Franklin County Farm Bureaus will host a meeting at 6 p.m. Aug. 20 at the Farm Credit Services Building, 210 Potomac Blvd., Mount Vernon. Members in all counties south of Interstate 64 can attend, and should RSVP by Thursday to their local county Farm Bureau.

Additional meetings may be held, but haven’t been finalized.

Last week, 19 counties participated in eight meetings across the state. At least 500 members attended.

Lauren Lurkins, director of natural and environmental resources, and Adam Nielsen, director of national legislation and policy development, traveled the state, explaining how the proposed rule could affect farmers.

“We have a lot of avenues to

get this sort of information out, but nothing beats the face-toface interaction and answering the questions of our members,” Lurkins said.

IFB opposes the proposed rule, which the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Army Corps of Engineers created.

EPA says the proposed rule merely clarifies which bodies of water are federally regulated.

IFB says it expands federal jurisdiction beyond what Congress intended.

Lin Warfel, president of Champaign County Farm Bureau, said he appreciated hearing insight from Lurkins and Nielsen. About 50 people attended the Champaign session.

“Farmers being exempt sounds good — until you know what it takes to qualify as a farmer,” he said. “How many farmers have farmed the same field since 1977? In my 52 seasons as a farmer, I’ve bought and sold land, and switched farms. I don’t have one field today that would qualify me.”

State’s nutrient loss reduction strategy coming soon

BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Periodicals: Time Valued

Ag in the Classroom materials will fit well with new Common Core and science standards. page 5

Illinois continues to fine-tune its strategy to reduce all types of phosphorous and nitrogen losses into lakes, rivers and streams. The Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy will be released for public comment in early September, said Warren Goetsch, Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) bureau chief of environmental programs.

Goetsch told FarmWeek the strategy covers many types of losses and nutrient sources.

“The strategy is more than agriculture losses; more than point sources and urban losses. We’re trying to better manage all

the nutrient losses,” Goetsch said.

For the past year, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency FarmWeekNow.com Learn more about the (IEPA) has worked on the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy at strategy with FarmWeekNow.com. many interested groups, including representatives of agriculture, industry, the environment, and federal and state agencies.

“The Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy offers farmers many options to keep more nutrients on their land. It will be important for farmers to consider which options best suit their farms and to comment on

See Meetings, page 5

the strategy,” said Lauren Lurkins, Illinois Farm Bureau director of natural and environmental resources.

The strategy builds on existing conservation and natural resource programs, and reinvigorates voluntary conservation and nutrient management. It describes many options.

The strategy also takes into account differences in the state’s typography and land uses as well as different nutrient issues and sources across the state.

IFB and other agricultural groups will educate members about opportunities to comment on the strategy. After reviewing the public input, the state plans to submit the strategy to the U.S. EPA.

Quick Takes

FarmWeek • Page 2 • Monday, August 11, 2014

STATE LIVESTOCK REGULATIONS FINALIZED — Livestock regulations released last week strike a balance between protecting the environment and allowing farmers to operate, according to Illinois Farm Bureau and other members of an agriculture coalition.

The Illinois Pollution Control Board approved rules for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) that will affect livestock farms in Illinois. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has authority over the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permits required for CAFOs. FarmWeek will publish information about the rules and how they impact farmers in future articles. IFB and other coalition members plan to provide educational efforts for farmers.

GLUTEN-FREE LABELING RULE — U.S. food manufacturers must follow a federal gluten-free labeling rule that took effect last week. Any product labeled gluten-free must contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten, an amount of gluten low enough to not harm people with celiac disease who might consume the product.

Companies are prohibited from labeling products as gluten-free if they have been cross-contaminated with other products while being manufactured. Although the standards do not apply to restaurants, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has encouraged them to comply.

FDA annouced the rule a year ago, but manufacturers had until last week to comply with the requirements.

ANNUAL MEETING MOVES TO CHICAGO — Due to major renovations at the Grand Renaissance in St. Louis, Mo., the Illinois Farm Bureau 2014 Annual Meeting will be conducted at the Palmer House in Chicago. The dates will remain Dec. 6-9.

Renovations at the Grand Renaissance meant 400 rooms would be taken out of IFB’s room block. Several meeting rooms and part of the ballroom are also affected by the remodeling project.

County Farm Bureau managers should soon receive information about room costs and other details.

FARMERS’ MARKETS BLOSSOM — The number of farmers’ markets has increased 76 percent since 2008, according to the latest USDA report.

The National Farmers Market Directory lists 8,268 markets with Illinois ranking fifth and hosting 309 markets. California leads the list with 764 markets; New York, 638; Michigan, 339; Ohio, 311; Massachusetts, 306; Pennsylvania, 297; Wisconsin, 295; Virginia, 249; and Missouri, 245.

All geographic regions saw increases in their market listings during the last five years with the most growth in the South.

The 10 states with the biggest increases in the numbers of farmers markets include Tennessee, Louisiana, Texas, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Arkansas, North Carolina, Montana, Florida and Nebraska.

Visit {farmersmarkets.usda.gov} to find farmers’ markets throughout the nation.

(ISSN0197-6680) Vol. 42 No. 32 August 11, 2014 Dedicated to improving the profitability of farming, and a higher quality of life for Illinois farmers.

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‘The face of the future of agriculture’

Farmer’s voice resonates in Washington

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

Kate Danner went to community college on a volleyball scholarship — and ended up a farmer.

And in just a couple years, Danner has become an active voice for agriculture. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Krysta Harden describes her as articulate, enthusiastic and “the face of the future of agriculture.”

And she’s only 25.

Danner was among 150 farmers invited to the White House recently to participate in President Barack Obama’s “Champions of Change” event.

There, Danner listened to a two-hour panel discussion on farming and met with Harden and Doug McKalip, senior White House adviser on rural affairs. She toured the White House garden and met with the chef.

Danner attended the event as a representative of the Illinois Soybean Association.

Danner is a fifth-generation farmer at Longley Farms in Aledo where she works with her father growing soybeans and corn.

She serves as vice president, and handles the trucking and planting. She and her dad make marketing decisions together, such as what chemicals and fertilizer to purchase.

But five years ago, she admits, she knew very little about farming.

Danner attended Black Hawk College East Campus on a volleyball scholarship, but didn’t really know what career path she wanted to follow. Coincidently, she said, the school focused on agriculture, so she had the chance to interact with ag students.

She also started asking her father, John Longley, questions about the family farming operation.

When she earned her associate’s degree, she asked her

father if she could work on the farm for a year.

“It’s not about if you can farm,” she explained. “It’s about if you can work with your family. We didn’t know that at that point.”

Turns out, they work well together, she said.

At the end of that year, Danner asked her father if she could take over the operation.

But he insisted she earn her bachelor’s degree. She attended Iowa State University where she was a triple major in agronomy, farm management and environmental science. She graduated in 2012.

She met her husband, Jason, there, too. The couple lives in Roseville.

She’s been farming ever since.

And seemingly overnight, she became actively involved in the agriculture community.

She says she travels to Washington, D.C., every three to six months to either lobby on behalf of agriculture or participate in an agriculturalrelated event.

“I don’t know a stranger,” she said. “I keep meeting remarkable people who just want to take me in and put me in a place where they want to share my story, talk to con-

gressmen, congresswomen and our senators. They want me to be that face.”

She described Harden, who was named deputy secretary of agriculture in 2013, as her mentor.

Harden says Danner introduced herself at a USDA Outlook Conference two years ago.

“I was just so delighted to meet someone like her ... someone who is so enthusiastic, so eager to learn and grow, and want to know more,” Harden said. “Especially because she was a female and she made it very clear to me that this was her family farm — not her husband’s — that she was coming back to work with her dad and other family members.

And it was her choice, something that she was taking very seriously. I just saw her as the face of the future of agriculture.”

She invited Danner to serve on a panel during this year’s USDA Outlook Conference.

“She is what we want, the kind of young person we want to be attracting into our industry, who can really communicate with consumers, who can relate to what consumers want,” Harden said.

Western Illinois University (WIU) School of Agriculture’s Allison Farm Field Day program offers information on crop health and quality from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Thursday on the Dakin Farm and WIU’s Allison Organic Research and Demonstration Farm about 20 minutes north of Macomb in Warren County.

Participants wanting a meal must register by Aug. 11 with the School of Agriculture at 309-298-1080.

A crop consultant, crop

breeder and grain processor along with a farmer panel will share their views on the topic. Joel Gruver, director of WIU’s organic research program, will speak and moderate the farmer panel.

John Kempf of Advancing Eco-Agriculture will discuss the relationship between crop nutrition and crop health, while emphasizing methods of monitoring crop nutritional status.

Speakers include Dr. Walter Goldstein of the Mandaamin Institute and John Pape of World Food Processing.

The event will start on the Dakin Farm at 9:30 a.m.

A free lunch will be served between noon and 1 p.m.

The program then moves at 1:30 p.m. to the Allison Farm for a walking tour of research and production fields and an equipment demonstration.

For information, contact WIU School of Agriculture Research Technician Andy Clayton at 309-298-1172 or 217-322-2639 or the WIU School of Agriculture’s main office at 309-298-1080.

Kate Danner, center, a 25-year-old who farms in Aledo, meets with Krysta Harden, USDA Deputy Secretary, left, and Doug McKalip, senior White House adviser on Rural Affairs, right. She represented the Illinois Soybean Association at the recent Champions of Change event focusing on agriculture. (Photo courtesy of ISA)

Crop health, quality focus of WIU Allison Farm field day

How low will crop prices go?

Page 3 • Monday, August 11, 2014 • FarmWeek

USDA report to shed light on production expectations

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

USDA’s highly anticipated crop production report Tuesday finally will give farmers and grain traders a better grasp of potential monster crops lurking in fields throughout the Midwest.

FarmWeekNow.com

Visit FarmWeekNow.com for more information about USDA’s highly anticipated crop production report.

The report provides the first corn and soybean estimates of the season based on actual field checks conducted

by USDA along with farmer surveys.

Participants of the Illinois Farm Bureau’s Marketers to Washington trip will be at USDA headquarters Tuesday to learn how statisticians develop the estimates and for the official release of the report.

“It brings more objectivity to the yield estimates,” Darrel

Good, University of Illinois Extension economist, said of Tuesday’s report.

The yield and production estimates also provide farmers, marketers and end users a better idea of future price direction based on supply/demand expectations.

“The crop obviously is looking good and yield expectations are high, maybe a little higher than justified by the weather,” Good said. “(Tuesday’s Darrel Good report and subsequent market action) will tell us if we’ve reached the bottom (of the corn market) yet.”

USDA last month pegged national yield estimates at 165.3 bushels per acre for corn and 45.2 bushels for beans.

The estimates, if realized,

would produce a record bean crop of 3.8 billion bushels and 13.86 billion bushels of corn, just 65 million bushels below last year’s record.

But many traders and economists, including Good, believe corn production potential exceeds those estimates, while soybean production depends more on weather this month.

Some private yield estimates place corn yields as high as 170 to 175 bushels per acre (well above the record yield of 164.7 bushels per acre harvested in 2009). But others aren’t as optimistic.

Informa Economics last week estimated corn production at a record 13.988 billion bushels with a yield of 168 bushels per acre, while soybean production was pegged

you go, they (wheat growers) dealt with a lot more moisture at the wrong time, resulting in high vomitoxin levels,” Brase said. “In some cases, that nullified some of the high yields.”

USDA last month projected Illinois wheat yields this season averaged 67 bushels per acre, which would tie the current record.

But farmers to the north didn’t experience high yields in some areas that were damaged by winterkill or disease issues.

“Wheat is mostly all combined with yields from 40 to 90 bushels per acre,” Pete Tekampe, a FarmWeek CropWatcher from Grayslake (Lake County) said a week ago.

Leroy Getz, a CropWatcher from Savanna (Carroll County), said “wheat yields seem to be in the 75-bushel range with lots of disease problems” in his area.

Wheat growers and industry professionals this month will discuss issues encountered this season and on the radar for the future at the Illinois Wheat Forum Aug. 19.

The annual event organized

by IWA will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Highland along Route 143.

Topics at this year’s wheat forum include results from wheat variety trials, fall residual herbicides and weed management, seed treatments and a farm bill overview along with market insights.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. with sessions beginning at 9 a.m. The forum will con-

clude at 2:45 p.m. with lunch included.

For more information, visit {illinoiswheat.org} or call IWA Executive Director Diane Handley at 309-5573662. Illinois Farm Bureau supports the Illinois Wheat Forum. — Daniel Grant

IWA president expects fall wheat seedings to be steady after mixed results this year The amount of winter wheat planted this fall in Illinois should be similar to recent years as long as farmers have time to plant the crop.

Kyle Brase, a Madison County wheat grower and president of the Illinois Wheat Association (IWA), believes farmers won’t stray too far from traditional rotations despite mixed results with wheat production this season.

‘Wheat acres should stay the same for guys who intensively manage wheat.’

— Kyle Brase IWA President

“Wheat acres should stay the same for guys who intensively manage wheat,” Brase told FarmWeek.

Illinois wheat growers last fall seeded 740,000 acres of the cereal crop.

Some farmers this season harvested tremendous yields as high as 90 to 100-plus bushels in some fields.

But other wheat fields, particularly in parts of deep southern and southeast Illinois, had high levels of vomitoxin, which significantly reduced returns on those fields due to steep price docks at elevators.

“I was lucky where I’m at, but the farther south and east

at 3.7 billion bushels (44.5 bushels per acre).

“The (corn) yield is above trend, clearly. But I’d be surprised if it’s above 170 (bushels per acre),” Good said.

“My dilemma is everybody’s talking about this ‘perfect’ growing season, but in reality, it’s not,” he continued. “June was way too wet, and July was cool, but it was too dry.”

Good projected the soybean yield estimate will be between 45 and 46 bushels per acre.

A big crop scenario often translates to higher yield estimates leading up to harvest followed by a harvest price low.

“The conventional wisdom is

a big crop gets bigger,” Good added. In that scenario, “we tend to see a harvest low and then hopefully, some improvement (in prices) as we see a consumption response to lower prices.”

Allendale Inc. projects just such a scenario for crop production estimates. Allendale last week estimated the national corn yield projection will total 171.4 bushels per acre this month before swelling to 174.1 bushels by the final estimate in January.

Such a scenario would result in a 14.37 billion bushel corn crop with stocks above 2 billion bushels. Allendale estimated a national soybean yield average of 46.1 bushels per acre.

Acreage history, yield reports sought

Farmers can expect to receive written notifications from USDA regarding updates on current base acres, yields and 2009-12 planting history.

If the information in the letter is accurate, no further action will be required. However, if the letter is incomplete or incorrect, farmers need to contact their local Farm Service Agency office.

Verifying the accuracy of data on a farm’s acreage history will be required for enrolling in the upcoming Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) program and the Price Loss Coverage (PLC) program.

Later this summer, farmers and ranchers will have an opportunity to update their crop yield information and reallocate base acres.

By midwinter all producers on a farm will be required to make a one-time, irrevocable election between price protection and county revenue protection, or individual revenue protection for 2014-18 crop years. Producers can expect to sign contracts for ARC or PLC for the 2014 and 2015 crop years in spring 2015.

Covered commodities include barley, canola, corn, flaxseed, grain sorghum, oats, dry peas, rapeseed, soybeans, sunflower seed and wheat.

For more information about 2014 farm bill programs, visit {fsa.usda.gov} or call your local FSA office.

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Illinois Farm Bureau supports Vilsack: ‘More work to be done’ on farm bill

BY DEANA STROISCH requested 229 of the applicants 238,000 applications for aid.

E15 mandate in Chicago FarmWeek About 165,000 of those farmers submit more details.

FarmWeek • Page 4 • Monday, August 11, 2014

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

Illinois Farm Bureau supports a proposal by two Chicago aldermen to mandate the sale of mid-grade ethanol fuel at most self-service gas stations in the Windy City.

In a recent letter to Chicago aldermen Edward Burke and Anthony Beale, IFB President Rich Guebert Jr. said the proposal would lower prices and increase choices for consumers.

“Passing such an ordinance would be an extraordinary achievement and make Chicago a national leader in adopting policies that stretch the paychecks of citizens, improve air quality and reduce greenhouse emissions,” Guebert wrote.

But the measure remains stalled at city hall.

After five hours of testimony, a Chicago city council committee took no vote on the Rich Guebert Jr. proposal, according to media reports.

Some opponents said the new pumps would be too expensive to install. Boating United urged people to oppose the measure, calling it a “dangerous blend of ethanol fuel” that would “destroy boat and other small engines all over the city.”

Under the proposal, self-service stations that generate more than $500,000 a year in sales on fuel each would be required to sell E15.

E15 is a higher octane fuel approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for use in model year 2001 and newer passenger vehicles and flex-fuel vehicles. The fuel is not approved for use in boats.

Six months after the 2014 farm bill passed, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack applauded steps taken to implement the new law, but admitted there’s a “great deal more work to be done.”

“I’m pleased with the progress that we’ve made,” he told reporters last week during a conference call. “We’re going to continue to work every single day to make sure we are doing what we need to do to carry out this very historic and important farm bill.”

Signed into law in February, the Agricultural Act of 2014 sets agricultural and nutrition policy for the next five years.

The bill eliminates direct payments and modifies the target price program, replacing the Counter-Cyclical Payment (CCP) program with Price Loss Coverage (PLC). The bill also changes the revenue safety nets, replacing Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) with two Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) options – County ARC and Individual Farm ARC. Vilsack provided the following update: • Disaster assistance: As of July 31, USDA received about

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have been paid a total of $1.85 billion through the Livestock Indemnity Program, Livestock Forage Disaster Program and Tree Assistance Program.

“There’re still quite a few applications that have to be reviewed,” Vilsack said. “But we are processing them very, very quickly, and it is fairly clear that we will obviously exceed the $2 billion mark in terms of disaster assistance.”

• Regional Conservation Partnership Program: Vilsack reported “substantial interest” in the new program, which combines four programs — the Agricultural Water Enhancement Program, the Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative, the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative and the Great Lakes Basin Program for Soil Erosion — into one. Vilsack said USDA received 586 initial proposals from nearly 5,000 organizations. USDA

• Conservation compliance: The 2014 farm bill requires farmers who have crop insurance to apply conservation methods to their farmland. Vilsack said he remains “confident” farmers will have enough time to make decisions and get a conservation plan in place by July 2015.

“What is of concern to us on this issue ... is making sure every producer understands that even if they have a plan in place they still have to fill out that form and turn that form in on a timely basis,” he said.

• Dairy margin insurance program: Vilsack also said farmers should have “plenty of time” to make decisions for the 201415 program. A margin protection payment would be made when the actual dairy margin is less than the coverage threshold for a consecutive two-month period.

He said the program wouldn’t be needed if in place today.

Russia plans to ban U.S. food imports

Leaders of U.S. farm groups believe the Russian government could hurt its own people the most if it follows through with a plan to ban imports of agricultural goods from various countries, including the U.S. Russian President Vladimir Putin last week unveiled an impending retaliatory, one-year ban on a number of agricultural imports in Russia.

The ban would halt imports of a yet-to-be-determined list of farm and food commodities from countries that placed sanctions on Russia as the result of its building aggression in neighboring Ukraine.

“Soybeans are the biggest crop export from the U.S. to Russia, due in large part to that country’s burgeoning economy and growing demand for meat,” said Ray Gaesser, president of the American Soybean Association. “Sanctions and bans like the one proposed by President Putin serve only to hurt the Russian people by limiting their access to the food and products they need and want.”

Ag products from Australia, Canada, the European Union and Norway also are expected to be banned for import into Russia.

The EU earlier this month imposed a round of sanctions, which reportedly target entire sectors of the Russian economy.

“This is clearly a political move (on the part of President Putin),” said Bob Stallman, president of the American Farm Bureau Federation. “It is unfortunate that the biggest losers in this will be Russian consumers, who will pay more for their food now as well as in the long run.”

The Russian sanctions against U.S. ag products shouldn’t have a big impact on the livestock sector. U.S. pork exports from March 2013 to March 2014 totaled zero every month but one. U.S. pork sales to Russia gradually increased since then to 8.8 million tons in June. U.S. beef sales to Russia are minimal, while the portion of U.S. poultry exports sold to Russia declined from 40 percent to 7 percent.

Right-to-farm issues surface in Missouri, Massachusetts

By a slim margin, Missouri voters last week approved the nation’s second right-to-farm constitutional amendment. Voters favored the measure by 50.13 percent.

Meanwhile in Massachusetts, legislators refused to pass a bill to restrict the rights of local farmers. Legislation backed by animal rights groups would have prohibited hog farmers in the state from housing sows in gestation stalls.

With potential threats of a vote recount looming, the Missouri amendment guarantees farmers and ranchers the right

to engage in their livelihoods and produce food for others.

Supporters noted farmers and ranchers need protective language due to out-of-state interests they believe want to restrict certain farming practices.

Opponents called the amendment language “too vague.” They further argued that the amendment would give large ag operations unintended protections.

North Dakota residents approved a right-to-farm initiative two years ago. So far, no court cases have been filed to challenge the law.

New ed standards incorporate learning, not new subjects

Page 5 • Monday, August 11, 2014 • FarmWeek

Illinois agriculture literacy coordinators learned last week they won’t need to teach new subject matter under new state learning standards known as Common Core.

“This isn’t new. This is a more organized way of teaching things,” said Jen Woods, an education consultant with Kishwaukee Intermediate Delivery System. Woods taught ag literacy coordinators during a daylong session in Bloomington.

Common Core standards address math, English and language arts requirements for Illinois students in kindergarten through high school.

During a session on English and language arts, Woods divided literacy coordinators into grade levels and had each group focus on reading skills students should

master in each grade. When the groups shared their information, they noted students are expected to build upon the same skills they gained in previous grades.

“These are not new things.

But there are things we weren’t doing (teaching) as well as we should have,” Woods said.

Students are expected to read and comprehend all types of reading materials related to all their subjects, not just literature.

And teachers of all subjects are expected to help them do so, according to Woods.

“I’m hearing more from all subject teachers that they also help teach reading, and interpretation of text and materials,” Woods said.

Integration of skills, such as reading comprehension in science, suits Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom (IAITC) and its resources, said Kevin Daugherty,

Illinois Farm Bureau education director. IAITC offers teachers literature related to science and other subjects, he pointed out.

Two university teacher educators who participated in the workshop noted their college students — future teachers — are learning the new standards.

Jeanne Okrasinski of Eastern Illinois University (EIU) said EIU students worked with Common Core standards for the last two years. “That’s all our students know,” she said.

Okrasinski described the Common Core standards as more “specific” than previous state learning standards that were more broad.

“They’re (Common Core) worded as objectives so you know exactly what (milestones) to do at each grade level,” added Cindy Wilson of the University of Illinois Springfield.

Farmers will hear about various cover crops from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday in the Lincoln Land Community College auditorium, Litchfield.

Andy Shireman, Chapin,

owns and farms land in Brown, Morgan and Scott counties and co-owns a new cover crop seed company.

Montgomery County Soil and Water Conservation District

(SWCD) and the American Farmland Trust are sponsoring the meeting. No reservations are required.

For information, contact the SWCD at 217-532-3610, extension 3.

BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Ten-year-old Joseph Chiadez of Hanover Park squeezes gluten from water-soaked bread dough with help from his mother, Shari Lee Masters, a Hanover Park educator. The two attended a daylong workshop on new state science standards offered last week by Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom in Bloomington. (Photo by Kay Shipman)

Learning science by doing ahead for more Illinois kids

County agriculture literacy coordinators focused on applying existing Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom (IAITC) resources and activities to new state science standards during a daylong workshop last week in Bloomington.

In February, Illinois adopted Next Generation Science Standards, which schools must fully implement by the 2016-17 school year.

Chris Embry Mohr, a central Illinois high school science teacher who helped write the standards, described the shift from memorization of facts to understanding of science and the natural world.

Science education has been “like playing Jeopardy with lots of factual information,” Mohr said. The new science standards have “opportunities to connect science with the real world” and link science to careers.

The new science standards focus on scientific and engineering practices, core ideas and cross-connecting concepts.

During the workshop, literacy coordinators brainstormed about existing IAITC lessons and activities that would dovetail with new focuses, such as engineering. In addition to machinery and mechanical engineering, IAITC offers resources on biotechnology, which helps students learn about plant engineering, a couple of educators noted.

“When you do activities in the classroom, don’t just think about the content, but also think how the science is done,” Mohr advised the educators. “Think of the questions you ask and the students ask during the activity.

Students need to connect ideas from one to another.”

The literacy coordinators tested a new activity that teaches students about gluten. Dough balls made from different kinds of flour floated in tubs of water.

The educators squeezed the gluten out of the dough and into the water. Then, they examined the remaining sticky dough.

Mohr reminded educators that students need to ask the questions and seek answers — not their teachers.

The educators shared ideas about experiments, models, analyses and communication that could be developed for the gluten activity for students in kindergarten through high school.

Usually, IAITC classroom activities last 30 to 45 minutes.

Given the in-depth nature of what students will be expected to learn about science, Mohr warned the literacy coordinators not to rush or expect to accomplish every learning practice in 30 minutes. She recommended the coordinators focus on one or two practices during a 30minute activity. — Kay Shipman

Blake Roderick, manager of Pike and Scott County Farm Bureaus, said nearly 100 people from 10 counties in west-central Illinois attended a session in Pittsfield. They “walked away with the tools needed to get the EPA to ‘Ditch the Rule.’

“The session went great,” he said. “I am continually impressed by the knowledge,

enthusiasm and passion Adam Nielsen and Lauren Lurkins have with this issue.

“Farmers know how dangerous this proposal is to their lives, livelihoods and private property rights,” he said.

“They understand that farming is all about land and water.

When EPA gets control of the water, they get control of the land.”

Meetings

continued from page 1

Montgomery County sets Thursday cover crop meeting

FarmWeek • Page 6 • Monday, August 11, 2014 Bernie Walsh, Durand, Winnebago County: After three weeks of missing all the rain, we finally had a good one. On Monday (Aug. 4), we had between .6 to 1 inch. That was enough to really perk things up, but we need some more to help finish this crop. A little hay is still being made, and roadsides and waterways are being mowed. County fairs are in full swing here in northern Illinois.

Pete Tekampe, Grayslake, Lake County: We received almost 1 inch of rain last week.

Corn is looking good with the only problem being deer. Last spring, while fixing a fence, we counted 31 one day and 36 the next day. I’m sure several have had fawns, so I know there are more now. Every day you see more damage. We need a serious culling project to end the herds. Finished cutting oats with yields in the high 70s, and the new seeding looks great.

Hopefully, we can get another inch of rain this week to keep this crop looking good.

Leroy Getz, Savanna, Carroll County: Rain on Monday (Aug. 4) of .5 of an inch was very much appreciated. Corn is still on target for a big crop. Most aerial spraying has now been done.

Soybeans have added height with some now at 30 inches. I have seen some double-crop beans that will be a gamble this far north. Growing degree units now total 1,955, falling some 250 behind normal.

Ken Reinhardt, Seaton, Mercer County: Not much rain was received. Crops still look good and are on track for above-average yields. I drove more than 3,000 miles on a western trip last week.

Other than a couple of hailed-out areas, corn probably is around 14 billion if the acres are correct.

Ron Moore, Roseville, Warren County: We received .4 of an inch of rain last Thursday. It was well below what the weathermen had been predicting, but it was still welcomed. The dry weather had put a damper on the crop potential for this year. Hopefully, the cooler weather has not reduced yields too much. Pastures are still in good shape despite the lack of rain. We have been preparing the combine and chopper for harvest. It will be here very soon.

Jacob Streitmatter, Princeville, Peoria County: Scattered showers across the area did not amount to much more than a couple tenths. Corn is firing, and the dry weather has to be taking the top end out of the crop. Soybeans are filling pods and also need rain.

Lighter soils are really showing stress.

Tim Green, Wyoming, Stark County: It was a wet beginning to the week with some storms and hail. Temperatures have been a little bit below normal. People are starting to get worried about our GDUs getting a little bit more in line or behind a little bit. Lows in the 60s at night seem to keep the crops going pretty slow. Be safe.

Mark Kerber, Chatsworth, Livingston County: Our area missed all of the rain last week. This is a key time for rain on our soybeans as they are filling and setting pods and still flowering. As they say, August is the time for moisture on soybeans — well, it’s August. Corn continues to look good. Markets are ho-hum.

Todd Easton, Charleston, Coles County: It is more of the same in the Coles County area, which is a good thing when crops are doing this well. Cornfields are very green and healthy looking with most in the R4 dough stage. With lower-than-usual temperatures, the growing degree units are falling behind average. Soybeans have been looking much better in the last couple of weeks with many of them around the R5 stage. If I used my neighbor’s retirement auction as a barometer for the machinery market, good yields must trump the lower commodity market as the equipment prices were still very strong.

Ron Haase, Gilman, Iroquois County: Some of our farm received a little bit of rain Wednesday. The range in rainfall was .03 to .25 of an inch. July 13 was our last good rainfall event.

The soils continue to dry out.

Mowing roadsides has been the major farm activity over the last week. A few soybean fields were also sprayed with fungicide. Corn development ranges from the R2, or blister stage, up to R4, or dough stage. At R4, about 50 percent of the mature kernel weight is in place.

The range in soybean development in the local area is between R4, full pod, and R5, beginning seed stage. Rain and sunshine is needed to help finish off filling the ears and filling the pods to maximize the yield potential. Local closing prices for Aug. 7 were nearby corn, $3.44; new-crop corn, $3.33; nearby soybeans, $12.43; new-crop soybeans, $10.44.

Wilfred Dittmer, Quincy, Adams County: Sometimes when it rains, it pours. It started around daybreak Thursday and kept on all day for a total of 3 inches. The total here for July was 3.1 inches. So, we’re lucky to be close to the 1inch per week to help the kernel fill that we need. Most fields look good at this point. I see a few small hoppers along field edges and a little leaf chewing in soybeans, but overall, it looks good. The hay balers have been keeping busy, while others are busy doing numerous other farm jobs. I guess we need yet another reminder to be careful. When we think it cannot happen to us, we better think again.

Still another was injured when an outrigger on a concrete pump truck broke through a hidden cistern cover, causing the long material carrier pipe and the discharge nozzle to swing around and strike the operator.

Have a good day, but don’t take it for granted.

Jimmy Ayers, New City, Sangamon County: At the beginning of last week, Sangamon County got anywhere from .1 to .2 of an inch to almost 3 inches. Later in the week, we received .3 to .6 of an inch of rain. The cooler weather has probably extended the kernel fill on corn, which should help increase yields. You need to pay particular attention to your fields to see if you still have nitrogen. There are fields that are firing up pretty hard. Question what is going on there, and try to figure that out. Soybeans seem to be holding up well. Hay was probably the problem child of the week, and it was very difficult to get anything done last week. I attended a meeting with the Farm Bureau and Ditch the Rule was the topic. If you haven’t been a participant in that, you may want to ask a few more questions and get involved. It’s going to be something that affects us for a long time if we don’t step up and try to alter the activities that are going on right now.

Doug Uphoff, Shelbyville, Shelby County: Went to Kansas City last week for a short vacation with my wife, Sara. We took Amtrak, so I got to ride along the Missouri River and see some crops. The river was very low and crops were spotty, but for the most part pretty good. I talked to two farmers in Kansas City. My wife was shopping, and she can’t figure out how I can find a farmer anywhere we go, but I told her we are easy to spot! The Nebraska farmer said they are in a four-year drought.

And the one from Iowa said it was wet early and too dry now. We had 5.6 inches of rain last month, which is almost exactly what we had in June. Crops look good, but we could use some warmer weather to get things moving along. We actually are behind on maturity compared to last year even though we planted earlier. Haven’t missed a week of mowing yet, but we might this week because of rain. As I wrote this, we had .8 of an inch in the gauge. We’ve been getting equipment ready and it’s a good thing because we found a bad head gasket on our combine.

Next week bin cleaning and maintenance is on the agenda.

Brian Schaumburg, Chenoa, McLean County: More of the same — excellent crops; good, albeit dry weather; and falling markets. Farmers are making their way to field days and appreciation dinners after days of prepping for harvest. By next week, I should have some numbers from our yield tour.

Corn, $3.51; new, $3.43; soybeans, $12.38; new, $10.46; wheat, $5.10.

Steve Ayers, Champaign, Champaign County: August heat and humidity returned this week with .35 of an inch of rain early Tuesday morning and .1 of an inch early Friday morning. Douglas County Farm Bureau crop survey found an average of 206.9 bushel corn with a range of 159 to 263 bushels. Some gray leaf spot was observed, and even hail-damaged corn near Tuscola yielded 180. See you at the state fair!

Jeff Guilander, Jerseyville, Jersey County: After several damp days and heavy dews in July, we got our first real rain in a month.

A widespread and much needed 3inch rain blanketed the area late last week. This should finish out the corn as most of the crop already started the dent stage. So far, beans have been looking good, but the limited moisture was a concern. This rain should finish up the mid-maturity beans and spur some new growth on the fuller season varieties. Everything is good and green, and it looks like it is going to be another late harvest.

Dan Meinhart, Montrose, Jasper County: Light rains moved through the area Thursday leaving a small amount of precipitation.

Crops are desperately needing more rain. The areas that received little or no rain since the first of July are burning up. Temperatures have been moderate, or the situation would be more dire. Fungicides and insecticides are being applied to beans.

Farmers are busy cleaning grain bins, mowing road ditches and waterways, preparing machinery for fall harvest and going to field days and fairs.

Dave Hankammer, Millstadt, St. Clair County: We finally received approximately 2 inches of rain last week, breaking the dry weather pattern we had been stuck with for about a month. The daytime temps for the week have been in the low- to mid-80s. Several cornfields have been displaying lower dry leaves due to the dry conditions.

Some fields even have plants turning brown due to the dry compacted soils within the field. Despite some of the firing, corn still remains in good shape. A field of corn has been chopped for silage. The first-crop soybeans continue to gain in height and set pods.

The plants are waist high and look refreshed with the rain. The double-cropped soybeans are about to cover up the wheat stubble. They continue to bloom and set pods. Have a good week.

Rick Corners, Centralia, Jefferson County: Wow! What a blessing. Last Friday night (Aug. 1), I lucked out and got .8 of an inch of rain and as of Thursday night, we got another 1.5 inches. Probably a little late to help the early corn, other than test weight and kernel depth, but man are the beans loving it, and so am I! Kevin Raber, Browns, Wabash County: It was raining outside as I wrote this report Friday (Aug. 8). This is a much welcome rain as it was getting dry around here. This rain should almost make the early corn, but the later corn and replant will still need more moisture. This should advance the double-crop beans. They have been slow growing since they have been short on moisture.

Dean Shields, Murphysboro, Jackson County: It was getting a little dry. We received .8 of an inch of rain Thursday. It probably helped the wheat field beans and regular beans the most. Lots of mowing the right-of-ways, and vacations are being taken. A lot of farmers are getting ready for harvest. Some say we will be picking corn in a month. After the river being so high this spring, it is now about to dry up. Get those “honey do jobs” done because harvest is on the way.

Page 7 • Monday, August 11, 2014 • FarmWeek Randy Anderson, Galatia, Saline County: Got .4 of an inch of rain Thursday evening, which was much needed. Could use a lot more, but glad to get any. Finally finished spraying beans. Corn looks OK, but with the dry conditions, I feel the ears are tipping back a little. Went to our district meeting this week and they talked about what EPA wants to do with the water on our farms.

If we don’t stand up for our rights, then we have no one to blame but ourselves. Let your congressmen or women and senators know how it will affect your farm and family.

Ken Taake, Ullin, Pulaski County: Thursday was a beautiful day. We had about .75 of an inch of rain. It sure lifts the spirits after a few weeks of dry weather. There have been a few fields of corn that started firing on the bottom, and beans have started showing stress in the light areas. So, this rain was really welcomed. Temps have been cooler than normal, which has helped the crops avoid some of the dry stress. Please be careful and have a good week.

Ag technology, conservation showcased on tour

Reports received Friday morning. Expanded crop and weather information available at FarmWeekNow.com.

ENHANCING FFA COMMUNICATION

Top, Illinois chapter and section FFA reporters learn about print media during a recent FFA Communications Summit at the University of Illinois, Urbana. More than 130 FFA’ers from around Illinois participated in the daylong media workshop. Instructors included Rita Frazer, RFD Radio Network anchor, and Kay Shipman, FarmWeek legislative affairs editor. Bottom, Illinois Farm Bureau News and Communications intern Courtney Gerstenecker, right, distributes information to a summit participant. (Photos by Kay Shipman)

RowBots, soil pits, unmanned aerial vehicles and fish shocking comprise highlights of the Aug. 19 Indian Creek Watershed Project Tour.

The Conservation Technology Information Center and the Livingston County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) will host the event.

Participants wanting to guarantee a meal must preregister by Tuesday.

Tour buses will leave Fairbur y’s First Baptist Church at 8:45 a.m. The tour will visit several locations near Fairbury before ending about 2 p.m. Lunch will be provided.

Advances in agricultural technology and its uses in conservation will be highlighted at the Marcus Maier Farms. These include unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), RowBots that plant cover crop seed between the rows of grown corn, and coated nitrogen products.

The second stop, Duane Dassow Farms, will focus on cover crops and soil health, including subsurface infor mation from a soil pit. Agronomist Tim Smith will discuss the project’s on-farm demonstration projects.

At the Indian Creek stop, the Illinois D e p a r tm en t o f N a tu ra l Res o u rces wi l l conduct a fish shocking demonstration to present indicators of the creek’s water quality.

An Illinois American Water Co. representative will discuss the company’s water intake plants that treat water from the Vermilion River. An Illinois Environmental P r o t e c t i o n A g e n c y r e p r e s e n t a t ive w i l l report on monitoring of Indian Creek water.

Registration is free. To preregister, call Livingston County SWCD at 815-844-6127, extension 3. For more information on the project, visit {ctic.org/IndianCreek}.

Wooden grain elevator stands test of time Farmers receive political pep talk FarmWeek • Page 8 • Monday, August 11, 2014

A testament to grain storage.

That’s how southeastern McLean County residents view the solid, southern pine building towering over corn and soybean fields.

On Aug. 19, 1914, Sabina Elevator owners invited area farmers to unload their harvested corn into an outside pit.

The structure, held together with wooden pegs, boasts storage capacity of 50,000 bushels.

Although farming practices changed dramatically since 1914, the 100-year-old facility still stores grain. Owner Dennis Mennenga of Farmer City plans to celebrate the structure’s endurance Aug. 19 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the elevator.

“It’s good to get the community together. The elevator’s in good shape. So, it’s nice to celebrate,” said Mennenga, who managed the facility for 28 years.

The elevator once belonged to McLean County Service Co., now Evergreen FS. As the GROWMARK member company modernized its grain storage facilities, members decided to sell Sabina Elevator.

Mennenga, who works for Evergreen FS as a grain facility groundskeeper, bought the elevator in 2003. He rents the scales to local farmers, and his son and daughter-in-law, Eric and Jenny, use the facility for their seed corn business.

“We haven’t had to do a lot to it in terms of maintenance.

The southern pine wood is really sturdy,” said Mennenga of the 120-foot structure. “A couple of years ago, we fixed the roof. That was quite a chore.”

During the celebration, visitors can munch on brats, hot dogs and chips. Mennenga also designed T-shirts and foam can holders featuring a photo of the elevator as gifts for guests.

A veteran statehouse watcher recently offered Illinois farmers a pep talk on the need to stay active in the state’s political process.

Kent Redfield, Ph.D., professor emeritus of political science with the University of Illinois-Springfield, spoke at a gathering of Illinois Farm Bureau’s ACTIVATOR® Political Leadership Cabinet, a group of farmer leaders who work to provide farmers with a voice through political advocacy.

“It is often a dirty, corrupt process in Illinois. It has become that in many ways,” said Redfield. “That’s not the way it was intended. You have to make the system work, and in order to make it work you have to be engaged.”

Redfield defines “engaged” as not only being represented in Springfield, but also having farmers directly involved with state representatives and senators. He commended Illinois Farm Bureau’s Political Leadership Cabinet for demonstrating attention and energy to politics in Illinois. The cabinet serves as part of the IFB political involvement program known as ACTIVATOR. “The best lobbyists are members of the organization,” said Redfield in an interview following his presentation recently in Normal to the IFB ACTIVATOR group. “If you can make your members your spokespersons, that’s very, very important.”

A former staffer of the Illinois General Assembly, Redfield has conducted research on the financing of political campaigns in Illinois and political ethics for more than two decades at the U of I’s Springfield campus. He has also served as director of the Sunshine Project, focusing on the role of money and politics.

“A candidate can tell you, ‘I can relate to farmers,’” said Redfield. “But if you have an endorsement from the Illinois Agricultural Association, then that’s validation.”

Redfield said the two Illinois gubernatorial candidates four years ago spent a combined $32 million to try to become Illinois’ chief executive. He expects the two major candidates this year to spend twice that amount. He said the cost of conducting a campaign for a seat in the Illinois General Assembly can approach $1 million for each candidate in some districts.

The Illinois Farm Bureau ACTIVATOR (“State Fund”) and the Illinois Agricultural Association ACTIVATOR Political Involvement Fund (“Federal Fund”) support candidates for the Illinois General Assembly and the U.S. House of Representatives, respectively, who by their actions have been supportive of the Illinois Farm Bureau’s policies. ACTIVATOR programs are voluntarily supported by IFB members.

BY MIKE ORSO

BY CHRIS ANDERSON FarmWeek

Above, Sabina Elevator stands stalwart at sunset. Built in 1914, the grain elevator continues to store grain in southeastern McLean County. Below, Dennis Mennenga bought the grain elevator in 2003. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the structure, Mennenga will host an open house from 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 19 at the grain elevator. (Photos by Ken Kashian)

Farm grants available for minorities, veterans

Listen.

Click.

Minority farmers and military veterans new to farming have until Aug. 25 to apply for USDA grants.

More than $9 million remains available to qualified applicants.

The funds will enable community-based organizations and other partners to work directly with new minority and military veteran farmers to help them acquire, own and operate farms and ranches.

The 2501 Program, administered by USDA’s Office of Advocacy and Outreach, has distributed more than $57 million to 188 partners since 2010. Applications may be submitted at {grants.gov}.

Read.

The most people, on the ground, in Illinois, covering Illinois agriculture for you.

John Hawkins

FarmWeekNow.com editor John has four decades of experience covering Illinois agriculture. He uses his industry relationships to help him grow and share advancements with readers and listeners every day. John uses social media to stay up-to-date with key players in the ag industry in the United States and around the world.

designed by RFD R285T4

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OND — Farm Bureau will sponsor a crop survey at 8 a.m. Aug. 19.

Teams will depart at 8:30 a.m. from the Farm Bureau office.

The tour will last approximately three hours. Lunch will be provided. Call the Farm Bureau office at 664-3100 for reservations by Aug. 18.

ROWN — Farm Bureau and COUNTRY Financial will co-sponsor a customer appreciation/open house from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the American Legion in Mount Sterling. Call the Farm Bureau office at 773-2634 or COUNTRY Financial at 7733591 for more information.

UREAU — Farm Bureau invites Bureau County Fair visitors to participate in a “Share Your History” video interview. Interviews will be recorded from 1 to 4 p.m. Aug. 21 and 24, and 4 to 7 p.m. Aug. 22. Interviews will be archived with the Bureau County Historical Society. No appointments are necessary.

OOK — Farm Bureau will host a family celebration picnic from 1 to 4 p.m. Sept. 20 at Goebberts Pumpkin Farm, Barrington.

Admission includes activities and lunch. Cost is $15 for adults, $10 for children ages 3 to 11, and children 2 and under are free. Call the Farm Bureau office at 708-354-3276 to purchase tickets.

RAWFORD — Farm Bureau will host a member appreciation picnic from 5 to 7 p.m. Aug. 21 at Shrine Pavilion in Robinson City Park. Call the Farm Bureau office at 544-3792 for more information.

ORD-IROQUOIS — Farm Bureau will sponsor a defensive driving course from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 19-20 at the Farm Bureau building in Gilman. Doug Sommer, safety education specialist, will be the instructor.

Members 55 and over are invited to attend. Cost is $17.50. Call the Farm Bureau office at 800-424-0756 for

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Tuesday: • FarmWeek: “The Early Word” • Alan Jarand and Rita Frazer, RFD Radio Network (RFDRN): reporting live from the Illinois State Fair • David Erickson, Illinois Farm Bureau vice president • GROWMARK: Jeff Solberg, CEO, and John Reifsteck, board president • Mike Loyd, Farm Credit Illinois • Colleen Callahan, USDA Rural Development Wednesday: • Alan Jarand and Rita Frazer, RFDRN: reporting live from the Illinois State Fair

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Page 9 • Monday, August 11, 2014 • FarmWeek

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reservations by Wednesday.

ULTON — Farm Bureau will sponsor Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) night at Spoon River Speedway at 5 p.m. Saturday.

The first 50 children will receive a commemorative AITC/Spoon River Speedway backpack filled with back-toschool supplies. Free passes are available at the Farm Bureau office for members.

RUNDY — Farm Bureau will co-sponsor a succession planning seminar at 4 p.m. Aug. 20 at the Terry and Carol Seggebruch Farm, Morris. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m. with the presentation following at 6 p.m. Darren Frye and Ben Metzger, Water Street Solutions will speak.

Call the Farm Bureau office at 942-6400 or email grundycfb @sbcglobal.net for reservations by Friday.

EE — Members of Bureau, LaSalle and Lee County Farm Bureaus are invited to attend a District 4 meeting at 6 p.m. Aug. 25 at Mendota Civic Center. Lauren Lurkins, Illinois Farm Bureau director of natural and environmental resources, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 857-3531 for reservations by Aug. 20.

ONROE — Farm Bureau will co-sponsor the Corn Growers test plot program beginning at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 21 at Matt Schaefer’s Farm, Columbia, with dinner and program following at 7 p.m. Robert Bellm, University of Illinois Extension, will speak. Participating companies include Beck’s Hybrids, Gateway FS, LG Seeds, Pfister, Pioneer, Wehmeyer Seed and Wyffels. Call the Farm Bureau office at 939-6197 for reservations by Aug. 18.

EORIA — Members are invited to attend the Grassroots Picnic at 6 p.m.

Aug. 19 at the Farm Bureau Park. There will be no charge for the catered meal. Elected officials and candidates on the November ballot have been

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invited to attend. Call the Farm Bureau office at 686-7070 by Thursday for reservations.

• Farm Bureau will take member orders for southern Illinois peaches. Cost is $25 for 25 pounds. Pickup will be at the Farm Bureau office from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Aug. 21. Order forms are available at {peoriacountyfarm bureau.org}. Orders are due to the Farm Bureau office by Thursday.

ICHLAND — Young Leaders will co-host an individual and team trap shooting contest at 10 a.m.

Aug. 23 at County Line Gun Club in Noble. Cost is $25 per individual and $100 per team of five before Friday and $125 per team of five after that date. Raffle tickets for a Remington 870 shotgun will be $5 each or $20 for five tickets.

Call the Farm Bureau office at 393-4116 or visit {richland countyfarmbureau.com} to register by Aug. 22. Proceeds will benefit the scholarship program.

T. CLAIR — Farm Bureau will co-sponsor a “waters of the U.S.” dinner and meeting at 6 p.m. Aug. 20

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at Farm Credit, Mount Vernon. Call the Farm Bureau office at 233-6800 for reservations by Wednesday.

ERMILION — The Marketing Committee will host a pre-harvest elevator information meeting at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday. Breakfast will be served at 8:30 a.m. Managers from UBS United, Stewart Grain, Premier Cooperative and Bunge will discuss their grain harvest delivery procedures.

ARREN-HENDERSON — Farm Bureau will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the consolidation of Henderson and Warren County Farm Bureau from 3 to 7 p.m. Aug. 24 at the Farm Bureau building, Monmouth. Events are planned for the entire family. Reservations are not required, but are appreciated.

ASHINGTON — Farm Bureau will sponsor a defensive driving course 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 21 and 22 at the Farm Bureau office. Cost is $15 for Farm Bureau or AARP members, and $20 for nonmembers. Call the Farm Bureau office at 3140958 to register by Friday.

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AYNE — Young Leaders will host a golf scramble at 1 p.m. Saturday at Wayne County Golf Course, Fairfield. Cost is $50 per person for a four-man scramble. Visit {waynecfb. com} or call the Farm Bureau office at 842-3342 for more information.

• District 17 Young Leaders are invited to a golf and bags party at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Josh Vaughan farm, Barnhill.

Call county Farm Bureau managers for more information.

Registration deadline is Friday.

HITE — Farm Bureau will co-sponsor a county crop tour at 7 a.m. Aug. 20. Teams will depart at 7:30 a.m. from the Farm Bureau building. Call the Farm Bureau office at 3828512 to register by Friday.

ILL — Young Farmers will sponsor a golf outing at noon Sept. 5 at Cinder Ridge Country Club in Wilmington. Cost is $100 if paid by Tuesday and $125 after that date. Deadline to register is Sept. 1. Cost for only dinner is $30. Sponsorships are available. For more information, email wcfb@will cfb.com. Proceeds will benefit Agriculture in the Classroom.

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• Monica Nyman, St. Louis Dairy Council Thursday: • Jill Johnson, Illinois Beef Association • Rita Frazer, RFDRN: reporting live from Beck’s Hybrids central Illinois field day Friday: • Mike Doherty, Illinois Farm Bureau: Chinese and U.S.-originated DDGs • Ron Lawfer, Lawfer Dairy: milking robotics • Liz Koehler, IFB News and Communications intern: summer internship reflection • “Horse Talk” To find a radio station near you that carries RFD Radio Network, go to FarmWeek Now.com, click on “Radio,” then click on “Affiliates.”

CHALLENGE THE STATUS QUO

InVISION™ seed corn is a game changer, changer, New FS InVISION™ engineered with genetic muscle to outperform expectations. Make no mistake: W We’re e’re here to un-cede the top seed. See your local FS member company when you’re ready to get serious. www.fsinvision.com

©2012 GROWMARK, Inc. S13265

FarmWeek • Page 10 • Monday, August 11, 2014

FS HiSOY Soybeans through the past 50 years

Did you know that FS HiSOY® Soybeans are celebrating their 50th anniversary? Well, it’s true. In 1965, Joe Stephens named the HiSOY brand, and it became the first proprietary soybean brand in the United States.

That’s quite an accomplishment. No other soybean brand can make that claim — 50 years and growing!

It’s not only the oldest, but the outstandMatt Hynes ing performance during the last 50 years has made it one of the best. That’s why we are celebrating!

BY MATT HYNES

This is your brand, owned by your local FS members companies developed locally to perform on your fields. We have never forgotten that.

There have been only four FS HiSOY product managers during those 50 years, and each one has built on the legacy of the previous manager. That legacy is what has made FS HiSOY Soybeans what they are today. I love this quote: “Your land is your life. It’s your legacy and FS HiSOY Soybeans have been a part of that legacy for 50 years.”

We recently had a meeting with all of our Crop Specialists — 450-plus — and we invited all four FS HiSOY product managers to attend. It was quite an honor to acknowledge their accomplish-

ments for the last 50 years and talk about how we are going to continue the legacy for the next 50 years.

It made me think about the days when I first starting selling seed back in 1979. FS HiSOY 265 — what a bean!

My customers profited from that variety more than any other on the market. FS HiSOY 302 followed — another outstanding soybean!

There have been too many other high-performing FS HiSOY varieties to mention. That is why the legacy carries on. The HiSOY brand was not only first but also a leader in the soybean industry. FS HiSOY Soybeans have been a leader in providing the best possible genetics to help improve our customer’s

profitability, a leader in offering the best traits to meet the needs of our farmer owners and the best agronomic consultants — our Crop Specialists — to help position the varieties for maximum performance on your fields.

It’s not a surprise that FS HiSOY Soybeans have been around for 50 years, and that we will continue the legacy for the next 50 years! If you aren’t planting FS HiSOY Soybeans, you are simply missing out. FS HiSOY Soybeans are the first proprietary brand, they are local and they carry a legacy of performance.

Matt Hynes serves as GROWMARK’s seed sales and marketing manager. His email address is mhynes@growmark.com.

New USGC chairman sees growth opportunities for exports

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

U.S. exports of corn and dried distillers grains (DDGs) could bounce back in a big way in the near future, according to Ron Gray.

Gray, a longtime farmer from Claremont (Richland County) who this year became a full-time landlord, was elected chairman of the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) this month during the organization’s 54th annual board of delegates meeting in Omaha, Neb. He previously served on the Illinois Corn Marketing Board (ICMB) from 2002-11 and also served as ICMB chairman and trade policy chairman for USGC. “I’ve always been intrigued by markets. World trade obviously is

a major component of the grain business,” Gray told FarmWeek.

“It’s going to be challenging and exciting to represent the interests of our members.”

Gray believes U.S. farmers, through the work of USGC around the world, will expand corn exports this year.

He also foresees a resumption of growth in DDGs exports after that market was sidetracked somewhat last year when China rejected loads of U.S. DDGs due to the presence of a banned gene.

“Expanding exports is a job every day at the U.S. Grains Council, especially in this environment,” Gray said. “A year ago we didn’t have abundant exportable supplies (and as a result high corn prices).”

M A R K E T FA C T S Feeder pig prices reported to USDA* Total Composite Weighted Average Receipts and Price (Formula and Cash): Weight Range Per Head Weighted Ave. Price 10-12 lbs. (formula) $37.50-$74.00 $48.87 40 lbs. (cash) $100.00-$115.00 $107.74 Receipts

This Week 74,228 *Eastern Corn Belt prices picked up at seller’s farm

Last Week 77,788

Eastern Corn Belt direct hogs (plant delivered) Carcass Live

(Prices $ per hundredweight) This week Prev. week Change $112.26 $116.72 - $4.46 $83.07 $86.37 -$3.30

USDA five-state area slaughter cattle price (Thursday’s price)

Steers Heifers

This week $159.64 $160.00

Prev. week $164.00 $163.24

Change -$4.36 -$3.24

CME feeder cattle index — 600-800 Lbs. This is a composite price of feeder cattle transactions in 27 states.

(Prices $ per hundredweight) Prev. week Change This week $222.33 $225.22 -$2.89

Lamb prices Negotiated, wooled and shorn, 124-165 lbs. for 137-162 $/cwt. (wtd. ave. 149.86)

Export inspections (Million bushels) Week ending Soybeans Wheat Corn 7/31/2014 1.4 12.9 44.9 7/24/2014 4.1 14.6 32.1 Last year 1.4 27.3 15.3 Season total 1582.2 146.8 1691.6 Previous season total 1299.6 215.3 643.4 USDA projected total 1600 925 1900 Crop marketing year began June 1 for wheat and Sept. 1 for corn and soybeans.

U.S. corn exports in 201213 dipped to a 40-year low of just 731 million bushels.

Exports this year could bounce back to around 1.7 billion bushels after ranging from 1.8 billion to 2.4 billion bushels annually from 2004-11.

“This year we will have an abundance Ron Gray (of corn) and will be able to meet the needs of people around the world,” Gray said. “At (recent prices), there will be opportunities to capture new markets or expand.

“I feel exports will be a big

player in price action for the coming year,” he noted.

Some of the growing markets include those near the U.S. where a growing middle class boosts protein demand.

“Latin America and Mexico continue to be stable and have a growing economy,” Gray said.

“We obviously are the supplier of choice (due in part to location).”

Transportation rates and efficiencies and corn prices will help determine the expansion of exports elsewhere in the world, particularly Asia.

The export of DDGs from the U.S. exploded from 1 million tons in 2006 to 8 million tons to 45 countries in 2013 due to the availability of the feed ingredient

from ethanol production.

Each bushel of corn produces about 16 pounds of DDGs. “In the world we live in, DDGs have become another component of the (livestock) feed mix,” Gray said.

The trade dispute with China, however, disrupted that market last year.

“USGC is working with end users around the world to make sure those (DDGs) supplies are diverted (to destinations other than China) so there will be as little price impact as possible,” Gray said.

Gray has been in production ag about 35 years. He also also has been a crop insurance agent for nearly a decade.

ISA leader encourages farmers to build on success It would be easy for soybean farmers to become dams on the rivers to avoid infrastructure-based complacent after the run of historically-high prices shipping delays, Raben noted. and strong returns in recent years.

“Transportation has been an ongoing issue for But that would be a mistake as farmers face years,” Raben said. “(Recent restrictions of barge numerous challenges ranging from a major dip in traffic) brought that into the limelight.” prices and strong competition around the world to ISA also will continue to support the state’s liveongoing transportation issues, according to Bill stock industry, the top user of soy meal.

Raben, a soybean producer from Ridgway (Gallatin Raben this year will continue to encourage more County). farmers to join ISA as association dues help fund Illinois Soybean Association members recently advocacy, legislative and regulatory efforts. re-elected Raben chairman of the Illinois Soybean “I’d like to see a greater percentage of soy growAssociation (ISA). ers be (ISA) members,” he said. “I’d like to “We’re trying to make Illinois soybean see more involvement.” producers the best at what we do,” Raben A recent study at Texas A&M University told FarmWeek. “We want to increase found that each soybean farmer receives demand for our product and maintain prof$5.20 for every dollar invested in the soy itability.” checkoff program. Checkoff dollars supThe goal of boosting demand could be critiport market development and export cal this year. U.S. soybean plantings this year skyefforts. rocketed from 76.5 million to 84.8 million acres Those joining Raben in ISA leadership at a time when South American production include Mike Marron, Fithian, vice chairBill Raben continues to grow. man; David Droste, Nashville, treasurer; Two keys to boosting U.S. soy exports include Lynn Rohrscheib, Fairmount, secretary; Daryl Cates, growing higher quality beans, and maintaining and Columbia, assistant secretary-treasurer; Don Guinimproving the current transportation system nation- nip, Marshall, Production Committee chairman; and wide to get crops to markets as efficiently as possiDuane Dahlman, Marengo, Marketing Committee ble, according to Raben. chairman.

“We have to continue to work on the soy quality “I’m humbled and honored to be re-elected for a issue (and produce crops with higher protein and oil second year,” Raben said. “We have a very good content),” he said. “The processing value of the group to work with.” bean is important to end users.”

Two new at-large directors elected to the ISA The 2012 drought, winter ice issues and recent board are Jenny Mennenga, LeRoy, and Austin floods on the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers brought Rincker, Moweaqua. Also seated to the board are into focus the importance of barge transportation new directors Roberta Simpson-Dolbeare, Nebo; to the value of crops as the weather-related issues Stan Born, Dunlap; and Carrie Winkelmann, Tallula. created shipping delays and other challenges.

Bill Wykes, Yorkville, was elected to represent IlliISA and other farm groups must continue to nois on the American Soybean Association push for the maintenance and upgrades of locks and board. — Daniel Grant

Corn Strategy

Acreage numbers coming this week

Amid the focus on the first “official” USDA crop report for corn and soybeans, the first USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) report on crop plantings will be released Friday. These numbers are released the 15th of every month with the final one coming in January.

Even though the August numbers are preliminary, they could provide some insight into possible adjustments National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) might make to its planting estimates on future reports. Traditionally, no changes have been made until the October crop report with the belief that FSA data compilation isn’t complete enough to assess whether NASS surveys have overestimated or underestimated crop plantings.

We’ve noticed in the three years we’ve had the data that the crop planting numbers are still a little too volatile in August from which to draw a precise conclusion. But the prevent plant numbers, especially since we are working with a smaller aggregate number, might offer insight into what the scope of prevent plant acres might be.

In the three years of preliminary data we have been given, the August preliminary prevent plant size has ranged from 92.7 percent to 98.3 percent of the final number. If we eliminate 2012, a year with fast planting and fast reporting, the range narrows to 92.7 percent to 95.9 percent with an average of 94.25.

For example, a 3 million acre prevent plant number on the August report would imply the final number should be close to 3.2 million acres.

This is important in how it might, or might not, fit with the mix of total acreage planted in the U.S. If the August preliminary number is 2 million or less, it would suggest there could be small upward adjustments to planting by NASS in October.

If it’s 4 million or more, it would suggest there might be downward adjustments.

There was still in excess of 2 million acres across North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan that had not yet been planted by mid-June.

Because of the calendar, and the relative economics, we think soybeans might be most prone to losing some acres if the prevent plant number would suggest a downward adjustment is possible. Given the more consistent individual crop planting relationships with the September FSA data, we might be able to project possible changes for individual crops.

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ü2013 crop: Even though prices haven’t given a good indication that a sustained rally has begun, the recent performance suggests the decline has been arrested for now.

And there’s more upside potential than downside risk.

Wait for December futures to rebound to $3.80 to $3.90 to make sales. Get basis locked up on hedge-to-arrive contracts and other unpriced inventory. With inventories you have left, balance making sales with the need to clear space to store a large new crop. ü2014 crop: We could be surprised, but high yield expectations for the USDA report limit the risk of a negative reaction. Wait for December futures to rally to $3.90 to make sales. If there’s not been a good preharvest marketing opportunity, you should see reasonable potential into early 2015. vFundamentals: In the short term, the outcome of this week’s USDA numbers will dominate the trade. Friday’s preliminary planting numbers from USDA may be just as important.

Page 11 • Monday, August 11, 2014 • FarmWeek Cents per bu.

Soybean Strategy

ü2013 crop: Spot prices rebounded during the past week, but gains only look like a rebound in an ongoing bear market. Sell any inventory you may still have. ü2014 crop: This past week’s bounce off the recent low indicated the market may not be ready to move to the ultimate downside target we believe is near $9.60. But rallies will not likely move above $11 to $11.19 on November futures. Use a rally close to $11 to make needed sales. ü2015 crop: The first 15 percent of the 2015 crop was priced at $12.07 basis November 2015 futures. vFundamentals: This week’s USDA report, and the market reaction to it, will dominate the action. And one should not forget the preliminary acreage numbers that will come on Friday. Meanwhile, China’s 7.47 million metric ton July soybean imports were record large.

They continue to reinforce indications of strong world protein demand.

Wheat Strategy

ü2014 crop: Wheat futures look to have turned up out of the 20- and 40week cycle lows. Plenty of fundamental headwinds still weigh on the grain, so make catch-up sales at $5.50 on September Chicago bids. Producers who are comfortably priced and able to carry wheat may reasonably expect the December contract to retest $6. ü2015 crop: Better marketing opportunities should eventually come for the 2015 crop.

vFundamentals: A renewal of geopolitical tensions sparked the recent gains in wheat. Even as Russian troops and armaments move closer to the Ukrainian border, President Vladimir Putin suggests that an avoidance of conflict is preferred. Weather remains the other big focus.

Conditions in Europe have hurt quality. European wheat joins Canadian grain as has having been hurt by too much moisture at harvest. While wheat inventories are abundant, a shortage of good quality milling wheat may provide a potential source of support to prices in time.

FarmWeek • Page 12 • Monday, August 11, 2014

Top reasons to buy at farmers’ markets

PROPER SUN PROTECTION

Limit sun exposure risk on the farm

Farming is a risky business. There are hazards everywhere.

Not all occupations involve heavy machinery, chemical exposure, extreme weather conditions, noise pollution, electricity, heights and confined spaces all in a day’s work.

There’s no doubt a farmer’s job is one of the most dangerous. With all of the protective equipment available to farmers these days, the simplest one could be the most important — sun protection. It’s not just for the beach!

DEVON People who work long days FLAMMANG outdoors in the sun face an increased risk for skin cancer.

Being a farmer isn’t the only risk factor. People with fair skin, blond or red hair, light-colored eyes and those with a family history of melanoma are especially at risk.

There are simple steps you can take to protect your exposed skin from the sun’s harmful rays. A broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater is one of the single, most important items you need to protect yourself each day.

It’s important to generously apply sunscreen at least every two hours or more frequently with excessive sweating. It’s also important to wear protective clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants, sunglasses and a widebrimmed hat that shades the head, ears, neck and face.

GMOs should not be feared

Editor: Have you heard the saying, “a little bit of information is dangerous?” Or the greatest authority on any subject is the person who knows the least about it?

Both statements are meaningful. In the first, an individual with a little information about a subject suddenly closes his or her mind about any further information. It’s a case of, “Don’t bother me with the facts. I’ve already got my mind made up.” And

Seek shade whenever possible. If you can avoid the sun during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., you can greatly decrease your exposure to the sun when its rays are most intense. Even on a cloudy day, up to 80 percent of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can pass through the clouds, so it’s important to wear sun protection even when it doesn’t seem necessary.

Lastly, watch for any changes in your skin, particularly moles. A common rule of thumb is to look for the ABCDE’s of melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer. A — is the spot asymmetrical? B — are the borders irregular? C — are there color changes? D — is the diameter larger than the size of a pencil eraser? E — is the mole evolving or changing?

It’s very important to report any areas of concern to your health care provider so it can be evaluated, then removed for biopsy if necessary. It’s recommended that anyone with increased risk for skin cancer follow up yearly to ensure there have not been any changes to their moles.

The good news is that melanoma is almost always curable when caught early.

Farmers rely on the sun to produce crops.

Yet something so valuable could be deadly if not taken seriously.

Take the time to protect yourself from repeated sun exposure. It could save your life.

Devon Flammang serves as an Illinois Farm Bureau Health Services Registered Nurse.

USDA identified strengthening local food systems as one of the four pillars of rural economic development. Nationwide, local food represents one of the fastest growing segments of agriculture.

The 2012 Census of Agriculture indicates 150,000 farmers and SCHERRIE ranchers GIAMANCO nationwide are selling their products directly to consumers, often at farmers’ markets.

Through the 2014 farm bill, USDA is making a historic investment of more than $78 million to support farmers’ markets, and local and regional food systems.

As director of the Illinois Farm Service Agency, I have seen firsthand how farmers’ markets here in Illinois help support family farms and grow local economies.

They bring communities together, connect cities with the farms that support them and provide Illinois with fresh, healthy food. Currently, 309 farmers’ markets are located throughout Illinois.

Here are my top five reasons to shop at a farmers’ market: 1. You’re buying local.

Farmers’ markets bring benefits not only to farmers, but also to consumers and our local communities.

When local food marketing opportunities exist for rural farmers, they cause ripple effects throughout the rural economy. Farmers and ranchers buy fertilizer and seed, invest in farm machinery, contract the services of custom operators and support local businesses like restaurants and retailers.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

then they think they are an authority even though they might be totally wrong.

One of these cases is GMOs. All GMO products have been thoroughly tested for safety. If a health risk, such as an allergen, is identified, the products do not go to market.

That’s why we have the Food and Drug Administration. The American Medical Association also does testing.

Feel assured the food offered for sale to the public is safe. The people who test it eat it, and the people who

produce it eat it. If it is so unsafe, those two groups would soon be eliminated or be too sick to work.

All that would be left would be the alarmists with their little bit of information and the people who listen to them.

Organic food sounds wonderful to some people. Seventy-five years ago and beyond, we were all organic farmers since we had no GMOs to help us in any way. Our ancestors were not healthier and longer-lived than us.

Growth in these areas leads to new demand for community services like schools and hospitals, which in turn leads to jobs.

2. Strong local economies! This segment of agriculture is a vibrant growth area that is drawing young people back to rural communities, generating jobs and improving quality of life. Spending our hardearned money with local businesses helps support Illinois’ economy, ensures that more of every food dollar ends up back in a farmers’ pocket and helps keep that money circulating in Illinois.

3. Farmers’ markets are easy to find. The USDA’s National Farmers’ Market Directory now lists 8,268 markets across the country, a 76 percent increase since 2008. Here in Illinois, the number of farmers markets has grown to 309. You can find a farmers’ market near you by typing in your zip code at {farmersmarkets. usda.gov}.

4. Talk about options.

Farmers’ markets offer a wide variety of fresh, affordable, convenient and healthy products sold directly from the farm. You can find ideas for how to use your purchases at {whatscooking.fns.usda.gov}.

5. They take plastic. In addition to accepting cash, many farmers’ markets now take advantage of mobile card readers and can accept credit cards, nutrition program benefits and even gift cards. The directory lists payment options available at each market.

For more information about what USDA is doing to support farmers and ranchers in Illinois, visit {usda.gov/ knowyourfarmer}.

Scherrie Giamanco serves as the Illinois Farm Service Agency director.

Because of GMOs, yields of nearly all crops have increased dramatically.

If we were getting the yield from “the good old days,” we wouldn’t have enough food for our nation, let alone much of the rest of the world.

GMOs are not something to be feared.

If you do fear them, perhaps you should start researching them using scientific research, not propaganda research.

DON ELLINGSON Poplar Grove