Illinois beef producers will vote in February to reinstate the voluntary, state beef checkoff. page 2
Farmers can comment on the new Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy until Jan. 24. page 3
Visit FarmWeekNow.com for news updates and videos from the Illinois Farm Bureau annual meeting in Chicago.
Future not clear House OK’s Section 179, fee hike on minimum wage Monday, December 8, 2014
BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek
Periodicals: Time Valued
State lawmakers concluded last week’s veto session without passing legislation to raise the minimum hourly wage, despite voters passing an advisory referendum to do so in the general election. Although discussions occurred, Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, announced Tuesday the House would take no action to increase minimum wage, according to Kevin Semlow, Illinois Farm Bureau director of state legislation. The House cancelled Thursday’s session and adjourned “sine die” Wednesday, meaning it would not return for any additional legislative days in the 98th General Assembly, Semlow added. On a 39-18 vote, the Senate passed legislation that raises the minimum hourly wage to $9 on July 1, 2015, and increases the wage by 50 cents annually up to $11 per hour on July 1, 2019. The bill also includes a tax credit equal to the difference between the current $8.25 rate and the increased minimum wage for businesses employing 50 or fewer employees. Finally, the bill preempts home rule authority –- except Chicago’s passage of a $13
Three sections Volume 42, No. 48
minimum wage by 2019. “Future direction on the minimum wage issue is not yet clear,” Semlow said. “Because the House adjourned sine die, it cannot return in a regular or lameduck session to consider the Senate’s minimum wage legislation. “There has been some talk about Gov. Pat Quinn calling the House into a special session,” he continued. “IFB has been working in a coalition with other business groups to oppose an increase in the minimum wage.” IFB, working with the other groups, successfully avoided possible lawsuits for farmers, according to Bill Bodine, IFB associate director of state legislation. Rep. Elaine Nekritz, DNorthbrook, proposed an amendment that would have eliminated a 10-year window for finding of an injury, disease or disability resulting from any discharge of “any pollutant, including waste, hazardous substance, irritant, or contaminant, including but not limited to smoke, vapor, soot, fumes, acids, alkalis, asbestos, toxic or corrosive chemicals, radioactive waste, or mine tailings” related to oversight, involvement, planning, or management of construction or an improvement to real property. The broad amendment might have meant farmers could be subject to lawsuits from any involvement in or observation of any construction projects or improvement to real property where any possible discharge may have occurred, Bodine said. As originally proposed, the amendment could have included work on livestock See Wage, page 2
BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek
The U.S. House of Representatives last week approved two priority issues for Illinois Farm Bureau — extending expired tax provisions and increasing the barge diesel user fee to pay for waterway improvements. Both still require action by the Senate. Farm Bureau officials, who have lobbied Congress to take action on the issue, said they were pleased with the House’s action. IFB President Richard Guebert Jr. renewed calls for action on both issues last week, writing to members of Illinois’ congressional delegation. The House’s approval of the one-year, retroactive extension of expired tax provisions came after President Barack Obama threatened to veto a deal to make the tax breaks permanent. H.R. 5771 calls for extending Section 179 small business expense deductions at the $500,000 level through the end of the 2014 tax year. “While we are disappointed that negotiations broke down on a longer-term tax deal, we are pleased the House voted to extend Section 179 for this year at a much higher expensing level than we would have had,” Guebert said. “We are urging Congress to act early next year on a
tax bill that would permanently extend this valuable provision.” The deduction limit was set at $250,000 in 2008 and 2009, and at $500,000 from 2010-13. It dropped to $25,000 this year – — and will remain at that level unless Congress acts. Meanwhile, the House voted 404-17 to increase the barge diesel user fee by 9 cents to 29 cents per gallon. The increase was included Richard Guebert Jr. as an amendment to H.R. 647, The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act of 2014. It was proposed by Rep. Ander Crenshaw, R-Fla. If approved by the Senate, the fee increase would go into effect April 1. It could generate an estimated $27 million to $36 million a year. Agricultural groups have been pushing for years to increase the barge diesel user fee, which funds the Inland Waterways Trust Fund. “Boosting the user fee from 20 to 29 cents per gallon of diesel fuel would help begin the long overdue process of modernizing locks on the Illinois River and Upper Mississippi,” Guebert wrote to lawmakers last week.
TALKING TOY TRACTORS
Dave Copple of Hanna City, left, shows some farm toys to Bryson, Nolan and Troy Wagenbach of Princeville. Copple organized and hosted the Peoria County Farm Bureau toy show during the 33rd Greater Peoria Farm Show last week. The county Farm Bureau director started buying toy farm equipment in 2000. See Peoria Farm Show stories on pages 4-5. (Photo by Cyndi Cook)
www.facebook.com/illfarmbureau
Quick Takes
FarmWeek • Page 2 • Monday, December 8, 2014
CAFO WEBINAR THIS WEEK — Livestock farmers may register for a Bringing Your Livestock Farm Into Compliance webinar on new state rules for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO) hosted by the Illinois Farm Bureau and Illinois Pork Producers Association (IPPA). Portions of the updated rules impact all livestock farms. The webinar starts at 8 a.m. Thursday. To register, visit {https://ilfb.webex.com/ilfb/onstate/g.php?d=662174777&t =a}. Presenters will include Ted Funk, IPPA ag engineer; Jim Kaitschuk, IPPA executive director; and Lauren Lurkins, IFB director of natural and environmental resources. DAIRY PROGRAM SIGNUP EXTENDED — Dairy producers may sign up for the Margin Protection Program (MPP) until Dec. 19. The deadline extension allows producers to participate in the program that protects them when the margin — the difference between the price of milk and feed costs — falls below levels of protection selected by the applicant. Dairy producers can use an online resource at {fsa.usda. gov/mpptool} to calculate the best levels of coverage for their dairy operation. Producers can sign up for the program at county Farm Service Agency offices. Farmers can also share comments by Dec. 15 to help shape MPP in the future. Comments can be submitted at {go.usa. gov/GJSA} or mail them to: Danielle Cooke, Special Programs Manager, Price Support Division, FSA, USDA, STOP 0512, 1400 Independence Ave. SW, Washington, D.C., 202500512. COOL RULING APPEAL FILED — The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative filed an appeal last week with the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding the October compliance panel ruling against U.S. Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) regulations. The appeal will argue against the finding that the COOL rules issued by the Agriculture Department violate international trade rules by treating Canadian and Mexican cattle and swine imports differently than domestic products. The decision to appeal will continue the COOL process with the WTO. A new WTO panel will be formed with a decision expected by the middle of 2015. Any potential retaliation by Canada and Mexico will be delayed until after the appeal process concludes. COUNTRY RETURNS DIVIDEND — COUNTRY Financial will return more than $2.7 million in dividend payments to approximately 10,630 crop hail policyholders in Illinois. Policyholders will receive a 16.12 percent dividend based on premium they paid on their 2014 crop hail policy. The amount of each dividend check will vary depending on the amount of crop hail coverage each policyholder had on crops during the 2014 season. COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company is the largest crop hail insurer in Illinois. It provides crop hail protection to about 3.2 million acres of Illinois crops valued at about $2.1 billion.
(ISSN0197-6680) Vol. 42 No. 48 December 8, 2014 Dedicated to improving the profitability of farming, and a higher quality of life for Illinois farmers. FarmWeek is produced by the Illinois Farm Bureau. FarmWeek is published each week, except the Mondays following Thanksgiving and Christmas, by the Illinois Agricultural Association, 1701 Towanda Avenue, P.O. Box 2901, Bloomington, IL 61701. Illinois Agricultural Association assumes no responsibility for statements by advertisers or for products or services advertised in FarmWeek. FarmWeek is published by the Illinois Agricultural Association for farm operator members. $3 from the individual membership fee of each of those members goes toward the production of FarmWeek. “Farm, Family, Food” is used under license of the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation.
Address subscription and advertising questions to FarmWeek, P.O. Box 2901, Bloomington, IL 61702-2901. Periodicals postage paid at Bloomington, Illinois, and at an additional mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send change of address notices on Form 3579 to FarmWeek, P.O. Box 2901, Bloomington, IL 61702-2901. Farm Bureau members should send change of addresses to their local county Farm Bureau. © 2014 Illinois Agricultural Association
STAFF Editor Chris Anderson (canderson@ilfb.org) Legislative Affairs Editor Kay Shipman (kayship@ilfb.org) Agricultural Affairs Editor Deana Stroisch (dstroisch@ilfb.org) Senior Commodities Editor Daniel Grant (dgrant@ilfb.org) Editorial Assistant Margie Fraley (mfraley@ilfb.org) Business Production Manager Bob Standard (bstandard@ilfb.org) Advertising Sales Manager Richard Verdery (rverdery@ilfb.org) Classified sales coordinator Nan Fannin (nfannin@ilfb.org) Director of News and Communications Michael L. Orso (morso@ilfb.org) Advertising Sales Representatives Hurst and Associates, Inc. P.O. Box 6011, Vernon Hills, IL 60061 1-800-397-8908 (advertising inquiries only) Gary White - Northern Illinois Doug McDaniel - Southern Illinois Editorial phone number: 309-557-2239 Classified advertising: 309-557-3155 Display advertising: 1-800-676-2353
Vote on state beef checkoff in February BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek
The Illinois Beef Association’s (IBA) bid to reinstate the voluntary, state beef checkoff whisked through the petition process. IBA collected the necessary 700 signatures to trigger a statewide referendum. The petition process was expected to take about six months, but beef producers did it in half the time, according to Reid Blossom, IBA executive vice president. Now producers will decide in February whether or not to reinstate a voluntary, statewide checkoff of 50 cents per head to help promote the beef industry. “We got the green light from the Department of Ag to host a referendum,” Blossom said during a meeting with the Illinois Corn Growers Association/ Marketing Board in Bloomington.
The referendum will be held during a two-week period in February, Blossom reported. Voting begins Feb. 16 and will last for one week at Farm Service Agency offices around the state. Producers also will be allowed to vote during the Illinois Beef Expo Feb. 19-22 at the State Fairgrounds in Springfield. Mail-in votes will be accepted the last week of February to conclude the voting process. The in-state checkoff program was originally enacted through state legislation in 1983, but ended in 1987 after Congress enacted the national beef checkoff program. Half of the $1-per-head national checkoff remains at the national level, while the other half returns to state beef organizations. All funds collected via the state checkoff, if reinstated, would remain in Illinois. “The state checkoff is more
flexible in scope and it’s voluntary,” Blossom said. “All of the money collected would stay in Illinois.” The timing appears good to reinstate the state checkoff. Cattle prices this year set new record highs, while inflation continues to erode the buying power of current checkoff dollars. “Inflation has given that original $1 (national checkoff rate) only 44 cents in purchasing power today,” said Alan Adams, a beef producer from Sandwich and IBA president. “We don’t want to lose ground with consumers who love beef.” USDA recently proposed the creation and implementation of a second national beef checkoff, but Blossom believes it won’t come to fruition and compete with the state program. “I don’t think the (USDA) proposed checkoff has legs” due to a lack of industry support, Blossom noted.
Farm Bill: Your questions answered
It’s decision time. Farmers can now choose between Agricultural Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC), programs available through the 2014 farm bill. The ARC/PLC enrollment window goes through at least March 2015. Landowners have until Feb. 27, to decide whether to reallocate base acreage or update payment yields. In addition to hosting informational meetings across the state, Illinois Farm Bureau’s Doug Yoder, senior director of affiliate and risk management, will answer FarmWeek reader questions about the decisions farmers face. This week’s question: Q: What prices are used to calculate potential payments in the new farm bill? A: All three safety net options — PLC, coun-
Wage
Continued from page 1 barns, grain storage facilities or any other real estate improvements, Bodine offered. This liability would have continued with no timeline and would have included any future and unknown situations, he said. IFB worked with many business groups to oppose the amendment because an unlimited lawsuit timeline on any potential discharge was too broad and exposed people to liability for something with which they may have had little involvement, he said. After discussions, Nekritz amended the bill to deal only with asbestos, the original intent of the legislation. Her second amendment minimized concerns, and IFB did not
ty-level ARC and individual-level ARC — use what is called the Market Year Average (MYA) price. USDA tabulates this price index based on prices farmers received for their crops. It is a weighted cash price index. Please note that the marketing (crop) year for corn and soybeans begins Sept. 1 and ends the following Aug. 31. Use of the MYA price dictates that potential payments for all three programs won’t be issued until approximately October of the year after harvest since the entire crop year must be finished to know the price.
If you have a question, please email it to dstroisch@ilfb.org, or mail it to: Farm Bill Questions, Deana Stroisch, 1701 Towanda Ave., Bloomington, Ill. 61701.
oppose it. The legislation as amended passed the House and the Senate concurred. The bill will be sent to the governor. Aging waterway infrastructure was the focus of a joint Senate Agriculture and Transportation subject matter hearing. The committee heard testimony on a proposed Illinois and Middle Mississippi River Public Private Partnership Pilot Program (IMMR P5), an initiative to find new funding resources to supplement the federal government’s Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program, according to Russell Orrill, IFB assistant director of state legislation. IMMR P5 looks to fund Illinois and middle Mississip-
pi waterway projects through private equity and state-federally backed bonding and loans, with initial capital investment estimates ranging from $650 million to $3.2 billion, he reported. Currently, IFB is reviewing the proposal. The Inland Rivers and Waterways Working Group hopes to begin discussions by the first of the year, Orrill noted. The group will look for possible revenue sources, such as tonnage tariffs, user fees and cost-share programs with other states. While supporters hope to begin construction in January 2016, many questions and concerns need to be answered first, he said.
IFB urging farmers to comment on new state nutrient strategy
Farmers may review and comment on a recently released statewide strategy to reduce levels of nitrogen and phosphorous in Illinois rivers, lakes and streams. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) and the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) developed and released the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy for a public comment period that ends Jan. 24. The comments will be applied “as appropriate,” and IEPA will make the final strategy available to the public and forward it to U.S. EPA, Marcia Willhite, chief of IEPA water bureau, previously told FarmWeek. The strategy offers a suite of practices and programs to reduce nutrient losses in urban and rural areas from point sources that include specific sources, such as sewage treatment plants, and nonpoint sources that are diffuse, such as runoff from farm fields, and residential and urban areas. “IFB supports the strategy because education, outreach and voluntary, incentive-based best management practices (BMPs) will continue to be the primary tools for addressing nutrient losses from Illinois farm fields,” said Lauren Lurkins, IFB director of natural and environmental resources. IEPA and IDOA created the strategy with assistance from a policy working group that included IFB and other agriculture organizations, environmental groups and wastewater treatment representatives.
“The focus is on reducing nutrient losses to the environment — not on reducing nutrient uses by Illinois agriculture,” Lurkins noted. She pointed out the state is building upon current education and cost-share programs and water quality monitoring programs for this strategy. The strategy’s use of voluntary implementation of BMPs expects to build upon practices and efforts farmers already are doing and in watersheds with existing nutrient management plans. “This is Illinois agriculture’s opportunity to prove that voluntary conservation does work,” Lurkins said. “We encourage all members to submit comments supporting the strategy.” The public may read the strategy online at {www.epa. state.il.us/water/nutrient/nlrs. html} and mail or email comments to IEPA. Farm Bureau members may comment electronically via the IFB Legislative Action Center. The system allows members to email comments directly to IEPA using template comments. Visit {www.ilfb.org/ 5138.aspx}. A separate email will be sent from the Legislative Action Center with that link. Comments also may be mailed to: NLRS Comments, IEPA Bureau of Water, 1021 N. Grand Ave. East, P.O. Box 19276, Springfield, Ill., 627949276. Comments may be emailed to Simon.Daniels@illinois.gov. County Farm Bureaus have received information about the strategy, a fact sheet, strategy summary and specifics about the comment process.
Illinois developed a strategy to reduce excess nitrogen and phosphorous in rivers, lakes and streams. Representatives of local, state and federal agencies, agriculture organizations, wastewater treatment, environmental groups and researchers created the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy based on state-specific scientific research. Although the strategy was released recently, speakers have referred to it during agriculture and nutrient-related conferences during the past year. To set targets, Illinois researchers calculated the levels of nitrogen and phosphorous being contributed by point and nonpoint sources in
different watersheds. Priority watersheds for nutrient reductions were identified. A suite of best management practices and efficient nutrient uses estimates potential reductions that may be achieved. The strategy goal strives to reduce phosphorous losses by 25 percent and nitrogen losses by 15 percent by 2025. The eventual target, as set by a national hypoxia working group, is to reduce by 45 percent the amount of nitrogen and phosphorous flowing into the Gulf of Mexico. The strategy provides flexibility to address the varied sources of nitrogen and phosphorous, and differences in nutrient issues across the state. — Kay Shipman
BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek
State setting nutrient loss goals
Page 3 • Monday, December 8, 2014 • FarmWeek
PORK DONATION FIGHTS HUNGER
Mike Hoffman, right, Midwest Food Bank operations director, thanks Illinois commodity group representatives for a $9,500 donation, which will provide 10,000 pounds of ground pork for recipients of the Bloomington food bank. From left, Illinois Corn Marketing Board Chairman Lou Lamoreux, Illinois Pork Producers Association Board Director Mike Haag, Illinois Soybean Association Board Director Jared Hooker and Steidinger Foods’ President Brad Steidinger talk about the donation through their Pork Power campaign. Since the program began in 2008, hog and crop farmers have donated more than 400,000 pounds of pork equal to 1.6 million servings. (Photo by Ken Kashian)
IFB, county Farm Bureaus hosting transmission line informational meeting
BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek
Illinois Farm Bureau and several county Farm Bureaus will host a Dec. 15 informational meeting for farmers and landowners along a proposed transmission line known as the Rock Island Clean Line project. The meeting starts at 9 a.m. Dec. 15 in Pitstick Pavilion, 3401 N. State Route 23, Ottawa. Rock Island Clean Line (RICL) LLC proposes to build a 500 mile long, high voltage, direct current transmission line to move wind-generated power from western Iowa through Rock Island County to a Grundy County substation. Recently, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) granted the company a certificate of public convenience and necessity, authorizing it to build the proposed 121-mile project across the state and conduct business as a transmission public utility. But the ICC denied RICL’s request for an order under Section 8-503 of the Public Utility Act, which is a prerequisite to being able to obtain an order to exercise eminent domain. Typically, when the ICC grants a certificate to build a transmission line, it also grants an 8-503 Order. RICL told the ICC that if it was required to file a separate petition at a later date for authority under 8-503, this could delay the completion of activities that need to be concluded in order to construct the project, including completion of easement acquisition, negotiating and signing
contracts with transmission customers, and raising the capital to finance construction of the project. According to the ICC order, RICL cannot install transmission lines on easements until it obtains total financing for the estimated $2 billion project. Under state law, RICL now has the right to survey and conduct other pre-siting activities, but landowners do not have to grant the company easements, said Laura Harmon, IFB senior counsel. IFB and others argued the company not be given eminent domain authority, and the ICC agreed it was premature to grant that authority. RICL would have to request both Section 8503 and eminent domain authority from the ICC later if it cannot acquire voluntary easements from landowners along the transmission line route, Harmon noted. RICL must obtain similar construction approval in Iowa. Last month, the company filed petitions with the Iowa Utilities Board to build and operate a transmission line across 16 Iowa counties. The Iowa Utilities Board is reviewing RICL’s petition for completeness prior to accepting the application for the regulatory review process. This initial review process may take four to six months to complete. After that, the Iowa Utilities Board will place the petition on the docket to begin the hearing process. The regulatory process took two years in Illinois.
Fall-seeded crop reporting deadline next week Farmers who planted fallseeded grains, including winter wheat and barley, or who grow 2015 perennial and biennial forage crops, such as pasture intended for haying and grazing, should report acreage to local Farm Service Agency
(FSA) offices by Dec. 15. FSA changed crop acreage reporting dates in 2012 as the result of a combined effort of FSA and the Risk Management Agency to make acreage reporting easier and standardized for crop insur-
ance and FSA purposes. All acreage must be reported for a farm. Reporting acreage ensures producers are compliant with current and future FSA farm programs, including disaster assistance.
FarmWeek • Page 4 • Monday, December 8, 2014
Greater Peoria Farm Show
Taylor: Risk management key to dealing with volatile weather BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek
Elwynn Taylor, Iowa State University climatologist/agronomist, says the weather cycle shifted to a more “volatile” phase in 2012 that could last about a quarter century. And so far, it’s hard to argue against that position. During the last three years, Illinois experienced the worst drought (2012) since 1988 and the harshest winter (2013-14) since the 1970s. So far this year, the statewide temperature averaged just 50.9 degrees, 3.5 degrees below average, making it the second-coldest January-November on record, according to Jim Angel, state climatologist with the Illinois State Water Survey. “The climate risk to agriculture likely will be greater the next 20 years than the last 20,” Taylor told farmers at the 33rd Greater Peoria Farm Show. “More risk management will be important.”
Taylor said the weather for hundreds of years runs in cycles that produce a repeating pattern of about 25 years of volatile crop yields followed by 18 years of consistent yields. The previous cycle Elwynn Taylor of consistent yields ran from the mid-1990s through 2011 and included a stretch of six straight years of above-trend corn yields (2004-09), according to Taylor. “2012 was year one of a 25-year period of more volatile yields,” he said. Taylor believes if the weather cycles hold true, weather during the next decade could be similar to the 1980s with a great deal of variability. Farmers obviously can’t do anything to control the weather. But if they pay attention to weather signs through each season, they can have a
better idea of their possible yields and price direction to help improve their marketing plans, Taylor said. “Now is the time to manage risk,” he said. The three key indicators of poten-
‘The climate risk to agriculture likely will be greater the next 20 years than the last 20.’ — Elwynn Taylor Iowa State University climatologist/agronomist
tial crop yield and subsequent price direction each crop season are precipitation, heat stress and growing degree units.
Taylor recommends farmers track those throughout the season and establish a marketing plan to reduce risk. Taylor believes a weak El Nino in 2015 could reduce some of the weather extremes. If El Nino takes effect next year, Taylor said there’s about a 70 percent chance of above-trend yields. El Nino also could help reduce the harshness of weather this winter. Last year, there were nine outbreaks of polar air plunging into the Midwest. Usually, three to six such outbreaks of the “Polar Vortex” occur. So far, two occurred last month. November, as a result, was the fourth-coldest on record in Illinois with an average temperature of just 34.3 degrees, 8.2 degrees below average, Angel reported. However, the forecast the first half of this month calls for warmer conditions with high temperatures reaching the 40s and even 50s in Illinois.
Tighter margins cause farmers to tighten belts into new year
BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek
Farmers and farm input suppliers seemed fairly upbeat about the state of the industry last week at the 33rd Greater Peoria Farm Show. But it also seems evident many crop farmers now are tightening their belts as they deal with tighter margins heading into 2015. “I’m optimistic, but I’m realistic,” said Larry
Tombaugh, a Streator farmer, nutrient management specialist and Livingston County Farm Bureau member. “This (Peoria) show usually is a good indicator of the (farm) economy and, so far, it’s slow.” The downturn in crop prices may not be the only reason some farmers were hesitant to shop for new products at the show. Tombaugh believes many farmers now shop for inputs
and machinery online opposed to shopping in person. Meanwhile, the loss of the Section 179 tax incentive this year cut into purchases of large farm machinery. “The big iron is not moving like it was,” said George Cummings, of AC McCartney Farm Equipment in Wataga. “A lot hinges on the tax law. A lot of guys want to purchase equipment (if the tax incentive returns).”
The slowdown in new equipment sales, and the fact that fewer farmers in the market reduces machinery turnover, also created a buildup of large, used equipment that currently weighs on the $64 billion ag equipment market. About 42,000 additional pieces of used equipment less than 7 years old entered the domestic market since 2010, according to an industry analyst. “We’ve lost the trickle-down effect,” Cummings said. “There are too many used ones (pieces of farm machinery) on hand.” Diversification helps keep equipment dealers busy during the slowdown in sales of big ticket items. AC McCartney sells a wide range of lines and products ranging from corn headers to hay and forage equipment. “This year for us has still been pretty decent,” Cummings
said. “We’ve been able to find niches to take up the slack.” Looking to next year, Tombaugh believes farmers will attempt to reduce input costs without sacrificing yields. “They’re looking for products that provide a sure-fire return on investment,” he said. One input that should be steady or even lower in price likely will be seed. Some varieties of corn seed are $20 to $30 less per bag than last year, according to Dustin Weber, of LG Seeds. “It depends on the traits. Some prices are steady, while others are softer,” he said. “For beans, prices are flat. Supplies are good.” Weber encourages farmers to order seed early to take advantage of incentives and to make sure they get what they want in terms of varieties and grade size of the seed.
National forage conference scheduled
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The American Forage and Grassland Council’s (AFGC) Annual Conference will get under way Jan. 11-14 at the Hilton St. Louis Frontenac. While AFGC board members will meet Jan. 11, the main conference begins at 8 a.m. Jan. 12 with the keynote speaker, Temple Grandin, a nationally known consultant to the livestock industry. She will present tips for low-stress cattle handling. Other topics on Monday include hay preservatives and additives, baleage keys to success and affordability of weed treatments. Jan. 13 topics include using cover crops to expand livestock operations, improvements in cool season grasses, baleage fundamentals and using NIRS as a forage management tool. The concluding session Jan. 14 will feature plant breeding and forage quality using NIRS nutrition results. The conference will also feature a commercial exhibit area, poster presentations and Emerging Scientist Competition. Early registration ends Dec. 31. Visit {afgc.org} to register and view a complete program agenda. One-day registrations are available. The Missouri Forage and Grassland Council and Illinois Forage and Grassland Council sponsor the conference.
Timeline for expanded UAV use still up in the air Page 5 • Monday, December 8, 2014 • FarmWeek
‘We’re a few weeks away from new legislation that could help,’ ag consultant says
BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek Farmers and ag input suppliers got a glimpse of the latest technology available for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) last week at the Greater Peoria Farm Show. But the timeline for when the farm industry actually can use the technology for commercial purposes remains up in the air. “We’re a few weeks away from new legislation that could help,” said Chad Colby, ag consultant with AgTechTalk.com, who discussed and demonstrated UAVs at the farm show. “But it’s an extremely challenging issue because of the responsibility to keep the airspace (over the U.S.) safe.” That responsibility falls to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In 2012, Congress directed FAA to integrate UAVs into regulations by September 2015. But it appears that process could extend to 2017 as FAA plans to complete a draft rule by the end of this year followed by a three-month comment period and then about 16 more months to finalize a rule. In the meantime, farmers and others in the ag industry
commercial ag purposes. Jim Williams, manager of FAA’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration Office, recently told Illinois Farm Bureau members at a meeting in Washington, D.C., that UAV use in agriculture will remain a priority. Ag companies can apply for a waiver to use UAVs for commercial purposes prior to 2017, he noted. “The FAA is not going to go out looking for farmers operating UAVs over their fields,” Williams said. “But if someone sets up a business (or deducts the purchase of a UAV on their taxes as a business expense), we’ll go talk to them about that.” If and when commercial use of UAVs becomes approved Chad Colby, right, ag consultant from Goodfield, demonstrates unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology, for agriculture, it likely will revwhile Daryl Ellis, left, of Lee Crop Care in Macomb, holds the aircraft during the Greater Peoria Farm Show. olutionize crop scouting and The use of UAVs in ag was among the many issues expected to be discussed in policy debate this week at the various ag input decisions, Illinois Farm Bureau annual meeting in Chicago. (Photo by Daniel Grant) according to Colby. “The technology has fined a man $10,000 for flying a exploded and there are a lot of are restricted to use UAVs only anything commercial (with benefits” associated with it, he small UAV over the University UAVs),” Colby said. “When I for hobby purposes. added. of Virginia to film a commerfly, it’s still under rules estabThe aircraft must fly below The use of UAVs in ag was cial in 2011. 400 feet, remain within the line lished in 1981.” among the many issues expectBut the National TransFAA’s authority to regulate of sight of the user and away portation Safety Board recently ed to be discussed in policy UAVs was brought into quesfrom population centers and confirmed FAA has that type of debate this week at the Illinois tion earlier this year when a airports. Farm Bureau annual meeting in authority, and therefore, could federal judge ruled that FAA “Nothing has changed. We Chicago. overstepped its bounds when it fine people who use UAVs for (in agriculture) still can’t do
Illinois commodity groups awarded Sen. John Sullivan, D-Rushville, with their 2014 Friend of Agriculture Award at the recent Illinois Commodity Conference. Sullivan began serving the 47th district in 2002. He serves on the Senate Ag and ConserJohn Sullivan vation Committee, which he formerly chaired. Sullivan grew up on a family farm in Hancock County. He graduated from Quincy College where he majored in history. He also holds a Real Estate Salesman’s License and Real Estate Broker’s License. Before becoming a state senator, he served as an agricultural loan officer and then a partner in his family auction and real estate business.
His ability to reach across the aisle earned him the distinction of being selected the 2011 Best Democratic State Senator by Capitol Fax. He serves as Senate assistant majority leader. Sullivan lives north of Rushville on the family farm with his wife, Joan, and their four children. Sponsors of the Friend of Agriculture Award include the Illinois Beef Association, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois Milk Producers Association, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Illinois Soybean Association and Illinois Wheat Association. The annual award honors individuals who have contributed significantly to improving agriculture in Illinois. Nominees are submitted by each of the sponsoring commodity groups and selected by representatives of the groups.
Sullivan receives 2014 Friend of Ag Award
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Passage of Trade Promotion Authority unlikely this year
FarmWeek • Page 6 • Monday, December 8, 2014
ments, but would not be able to amend them. Illinois Farm Bureau’s Adam Nielsen, director of national legislation, noted that TPA represents a “heavy political lift because opponents of trade agreements fight vehemently against any progress toward completion of free trade agreements.� “By the same token, we have the opportunity to make the case for expanded trade and to help our elected officials understand just how valuable exports are to Illinois agriculture and our
BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek
American Farm Bureau Federation recently joined more than 200 businesses and associations across the country urging Congress to pass Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) legislation this year. But that probably won’t happen until at least next year. IFB supports passage of TPA, which would allow President Barack Obama to negotiate trade deals without Congress changing them. Congress would still be able to vote up or down on trade agree-
AGRICULTURE’S LINK TO MONEY
state economy,� Nielsen said. “New bilateral and multilateral free trade agreements are essential to open up new markets and level the playing field for agricultural exports,� he added. “In addition to reducing and eliminating tariffs, trade agreements are a valuable tool for U.S. negotiators to address what are often very unscientific nontariff trade barriers that prevent overseas sales of our products.�  In a letter to congressional leaders last month, various groups and companies said TPA legislation must be approved to
help “ensure strong outcomes� in ongoing trade negotiations. The companies ranged from Coca-Cola and Target to Cargill and the International Dairy Foods Association. “Other countries are completing trade agreements that are opening markets for their companies, farmers and workers, and shaping the rules for international trade to their advantage,� the group wrote. “It is vital that the United States respond by negotiating and implementing high-standard, market-opening trade agreements as soon as possible.�
IAA Foundation accepting applications
Sara Luthy, Schuyler County Farm Bureau ag literacy coordinator, explains the relationship between agriculture and money to Lori Hulvey’s Webster Elementary School fourth grade students in Rushville. Luthy and fellow Ag Literacy Coordinator Jean Barron taught pre-kindergarten through fourth graders that former U.S. presidents pictured on money — Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, Franklin D. Roosevelt, George Washington, John F. Kennedy, Alexander Hamilton, Andrew Jackson, Ulysses S. Grant, Benjamin Franklin and William McKinley — came from agricultural backgrounds. Students also learned how much farmers pay for input costs and enjoyed soybean fortune cookies containing Ag Facts. Prairieland FS contributed seed bags used during the lesson. (Photo by Schuyler County Farm Bureau Manager Kelly Westlake)
Agriculture students, and Illinois Farm Bureau members and their children may apply for college scholarships offered by the IAA Foundation, Illinois Farm Bureau’s charitable arm. Completed applications must be postmarked on or before Feb. 1. For the 2015-16 school year, 74 scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $7,500 per year, will be awarded, totaling $179,800. The IAA Foundation offers a variety of scholarships, including three IAA Foundation Top Scholarships of $7,500 each. The Illinois Farm Bureau Legacy of Leadership scholarship winner also will receive $7,500. Students studying crop science and pursuing a master’s degree related to research are eligible for the Illinois Soybean Association Crop Science Scholarships. Ten, $4,000 scholarships will be awarded to juniors. Those recipients are eligible to apply for an additional $4,000 in the renewable program. Twenty-five, $1,200 scholarships are available to students from specific southern Illinois counties as part of the Dorothy and Wilhelmine Ratermann Memorial Scholarships. Twelve Prairie Farms Dairy scholar-
Start Planning Now
ships of $2,000 each are available to company patrons and employees. Two additional $1,000 scholarships are available to farmers affiliated with the St. Louis District Dairy Council. An additional 12 scholarships, ranging from $1,000 to $1,500, are available to students who meet certain criteria, including area of study, place of residence, previous 4-H experience and college or university attended. Students who receive IAA Foundation Scholarships and are enrolled in agriculture at Illinois State University or Southern Illinois University may be eligible for additional scholarship funds from the universities. This partnership furthers the IAA Foundation’s effort to encourage top students to continue their education at an Illinois institution. All applicants must be high school seniors accepted for enrollment or students already enrolled at an accredited college, university or community college. Scholarships are awarded for exceptional academic ability, leadership and financial need. Previous winners of an IAA Foundation scholarship are eligible to re-apply. For a list of scholarships, eligibility guidelines and application documents, visit {iaafoundation.org}.
Attend a meeting at your convenience ...
Date
Location
City
Time
Contact
December 10
Edwards County Farm Bureau
Albion
8:00 AM
Rebecca Perry, 618-445-2113 Carol Jo Beadles, 618-262-5865
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December 10
White County Farm Bureau
Carmi
7:00 PM
Doug Anderson, 618-382-8512
December 11
Giffford State Bank
Giffford
10:00 AM
Callie Heidbreder, 217-568-7311
December 11
Ve ermilion ermil County Farm Bureau
Danville
1:00 PM
Tom Fricke, 217-442-8713
December 12
Bureau County Farm Bureau
Princeton
9:00 AM
Jill Frueh, 815-875-6468
December 12
Ford/Iroquois County Farm Bureau
Gilman
1:30 PM
Brenna Hildenbrand, 815-265-4718 David Treece, 815-265-4712
December 15
St. John’s Lutheran Fellowship Hall
Red Bud
9:00 AM
Jim W Walker alker, 618-282-2635 Cheryl Zanders, 618-282-2635
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Additional meetings take place through March. Follow FarmWeek FarmW Week kÂŽ, FarmW FarmWeekNow.com, eekNow.com, your favorite RFD Radio Networ Network kÂŽ radio station, or ilfb.org/farmbill to learn more.
‘Striving to Sustainably Feed the World’ theme of Commodity Conference
Levick: Communication key to turn tide in GMO debate
BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek
Farmers remain one of the most trusted groups by U.S. consumers. But the industry’s lack of communication about key issues in the past continues to trouble farmers as they attempt to move forward with new technology and farming methods, according to Richard Levick, CEO of Levick Communications. Levick recently encouraged farmers to be more active and creative about communicating messages about biotech crops to consumers. “Farmers are one of the highest trusted groups in America,” Levick said during his keynote address at the Illinois Commodity Conference in Normal. “But, guess what? You’re not controlling the message” about genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Consumers are eager to learn more about the technology. But much of what they learn about biotech crops online comes from GMO opponents, according to Levick. He noted that opposition to GMOs this year reached 2 million “Likes” on Facebook and 1 million followers on Twitter compared to just 3,000 Facebook “Likes” and 6,000 Richard Levick Twitter followers of GMO proponents. “The anti-GMO campaign 15 years ago started as a whisper and turned into a movement,” Levick said. Farmers should be concerned about such results as more people turn to the web
New corn growers president focuses on expanding demand
Selling corn was relatively simple in recent years as weatherrelated supply constraints and booming demand resulted in a long run of profitable prices. But now that U.S. farmers surpassed all demand expectations this year by growing a record 14.4 billion bushel crop, marketing and promotions efforts take on added significance for corn growers. Kenny Hartman, newly elected president of the Illinois Corn Growers Association (ICGA), points to growing demand as one of his top priorities in the coming year. “It’s great to have a big crop,” Hartman told FarmWeek at the Illinois Commodity Conference. “But with a big crop you have lower prices. “That’s why I think ICGA is very instrumental,” he continued. “Hopefully we can pick up exports (forecast at about 1.75 billion bushels). With a cheaper product, we should have more demand.” Hartman, who farms near Waterloo (Monroe County), served on the ICGA board the Kenny Hartman past six years and has been involved with the organization more than 15 years. He believes the ethanol market, along with exports, could be poised to grow this year. ICGA continues to work with leaders in Chicago to make E15 blends available around the city. “Basically (increasing the amount of ethanol in gasoline blends) is a win-win for consumers because ethanol is cheaper, for the environmentalists because it burns cleaner and for farmers because we have a lot of corn in Illinois” and need to boost demand. Hartman also believes the combination of high meat prices and low grain prices should lead to expansion in the livestock sector. “With prices where they’re at, we should see some livestock expansion,” he said. “Hopefully, we can pick up demand (in that sector).” Other priorities for ICGA in the upcoming year include upgrades to locks and dams on the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers, water quality, nutrition and implementation of the farm bill. Those elected to lead ICGA, along with Hartman, include Jeff Jarboe, Loda (vice president); Glenna Taylor, Oakland (treasurer); Bill Leigh, Minonk (secretary); Aron Carlson, Winnebago (exports committee chairman); Justin Durdan, Utica (industrial committee chairman); and Gary Hudson, Hindsboro (grassroots committee chairman). Spencer Janssen (Litchfield, District 11) and Joe Murphy (Harrisburg, District 15) were elected to the ICGA board. Those re-elected to the ICGA board are Aron Carlson (Winnebago, District 2), Justin Durdan (Utica, District 5), Ted Mottaz (Elmwood, District 8), and new president Kenny Hartman (Waterloo, District 14). — Daniel Grant
for information about food and nutrition. Levick noted that 59 percent of U.S. consumers got their nutritional advice online as of 2012. Yet, a sizable portion of Americans still are unable to identify what GMO actually means. “Twenty-five percent of Americans have no idea what a GMO is. They just think it’s bad,” Levick said. To counter this lack of understanding, farmers should communicate their message through all platforms, including social media, and use more pictures and videos so consumers can relate to what they see. “Just because we have facts on our side doesn’t matter. It’s all about how we communicate with emotions,” Levick said. “We all make decisions on how we feel. And we feel things by seeing people who look like us.” Therefore, a simple video or picture to illustrate farmers growing more food with less pesticides can go a long way to win over consumers, who are bombarded by 3,000 to 5,000 messages a day in the GMO debate. “More people are using Google and Internet devices than are watching TV,” he said.
Page 7 • Monday, December 8, 2014 • FarmWeek
“It’s time to stop being defensive and start talking benefits.” A focus on the benefits of biotech crops continues to reach more Americans. Ballot initiatives to label GMO food this year were defeated in Colorado and previously lost in Washington state (2013) and California (2012). Vermont, however, passed a labeling law that could take effect in 2016, while countylevel bans on the production of GMO crops previously passed in California and Hawaii. A federal judge last
week invalidated Hawaii County’s partial GMO ban. “The industry has learned a lot” in its defense of biotech crops, he added. “We need to embrace the fact that we’re the environmentalists, we’re feeding the planet and we’re reducing pesticide use.” The annual Commodity Conference was hosted by the Illinois Beef Association, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois Milk Producers Association, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Illinois Soybean Association and Illinois Wheat Association.
Bee, honey survey under way
Illinois bee and honey producers should soon receive a colony and honey production survey from USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS). More than 300 Illinois operators will be asked to provide information about their bee colonies, honey stocks on hand, and production and prices received for honey in 2014. Producers may respond to the survey via the Internet, telephone, mail or a personal interview with a local NASS representative. Individual information collected by NASS will remain confidential by law. “Accurate data on bee inventory and honey production are critical decision-making tools for USDA and the industry to be more responsive to domestic and international markets and consumer needs,” said Illinois State Statistician Mark Schleusener. Survey results will be published March 20. It will be available online at {nass.usda.gov).
May your Holidays Be Merry & Bright!
Sending our warmest thoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday and a Happy New Year. TM
©2014 GROWMARK, Inc. A14290A
Farmers, ‘adopted’ lawmakers build relationships, understanding
FarmWeek • Page 8 • Monday, December 8, 2014
BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek
A combine ride and farm tour usually elicit rave reviews from urban legislators, but when their families, especially teenagers, find the experience fascinating, that activity proves its worth. Worthwhile epitomizes Illinois Farm Bureau’s Adopt-aLegislator® program. “This is a part of Illinois that is so important to the state that we really need to educate ourselves about it,” said state Rep. Laura Fine, D-Glenview. “This is a wonderful program. I got so much out of it. My kids got so much out of it. We had so many questions, and we never felt any question was too silly.” Since 2001, Adopt-a-Legislator has built relationships by connecting Chicago-area lawmakers and farmers. Through the program, interested state legislators from Cook and the collar counties are matched with county Farm Bureaus. Today, 73 legislators — almost every one from Cook County and several from surrounding counties — participate in the exchange program.
Growing ‘adopted’ legislators • 73 Chicago-area state lawmakers in Illinois Farm Bureau’s Adopt-a-Legislator® program. • Many of those awarded IFB Friend of Agriculture. • “Adopted” legislators frequently bring their families and constituents on farm visits.
State Rep. Laura Fine, D-Glenview, second from left, and one of her sons listen to Logan County Farm Bureau Director Dave Opperman during her farm visit. Looking on left to right are county Farm Bureau manager Jim Drew and county Farm Bureau director Gary Atteberry. (FarmWeek file photo)
In fact, the demand by county Farm Bureaus has outstripped the supply of participating legislators and seven counties are on a waiting list, according to Christina Nourie, IFB northeast legislative coordinator who oversees the program. Most of the “adopted” legislators don’t have an agricultural background or have never visited a modern farm. Visit
{www.ilfb.org/get-involved/ get-political/adopt-a-legislatorprogram-original.aspx} While visiting Logan County, Fine noted her teenage sons experienced another profession. “Farming is so different from what many people think,” she said. “Farming is not just farming; it’s engineering, business — so much goes into it.”
For state Sen. Melinda Bush, D-Grayslake, a visit to Randolph County took on economic importance: “I was able to see several of their agribusinesses inside and out, gaining valuable insight on how farming contributes both to the Randolph County and the Illinois economies. This type of perspective is extraordinarily important when making legislative decisions that impact economies throughout the state of Illinois.” Helping his fellow legislators better understand agriculture and rural Illinois benefits the state, according to state Rep. Brandon Phelps, D-Harrisburg. Phelps joined state Rep. Marcus Evans, D-Chicago, when Evans toured farms and agribusinesses in Alexander, Massac and Pulaski counties. Phelps said he encourages legislators to join the program, adding, “Everyone I talk to gets something out of it. It’s a wonderful program and I commend Farm Bureau for doing this.” The tours not only provide opportunities to build relationships between urban lawmakers and farmers and rural leaders, but also with the legisla-
tors who represent rural districts, Nourie said. She continued that she’d like more downstate legislators to join their urban counterparts’ visits. The program offers Farm Bureau leaders — both from the adopted county and the local county — experiences during urban district visits. Those visits “show the legislators this is a two-way learning opportunity. The farmers learn about their issues,” Nourie said. In some cases, those legislator-farmer relationships have continued when the legislators advanced to leadership positions or higher offices. “That’s why we stress these are longterm relationships,” Nourie added. Fine explained she now “knows who the agricultural experts are and I know who to call. They’re like my family.” Nourie continued the people-to-people experiences make a huge difference for agriculture. “When legislators hear Farm Bureau, they think of a combine ride or a bonfire they sat around with their family ... we have a good relationship,” she said. “They want to bring their families — and they learn, too.” County Farm Bureau leaders converging in Chicago for the IFB Annual Meeting offers a perfect opportunity for farmers and their “adopted” legislators to meet. Fine joked she looked forward to a date with her adopted Farm Bureau leaders and their spouses.
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State Rep. Marcus Evans, left, D-Chicago, and state Rep. Brandon Phelps, second from right, D-Harrisburg, inspect soybeans during Evans’ tour with his “adopted” county Farm Bureaus in Alexander, Massac and Pulaski counties. The group included Robert Moore of Chicago, center, and Massac County Farm Bureau President Rollo Burnett, far right. (FarmWeek file photo)
Page 9 • Monday, December 8, 2014 • FarmWeek
Growers to feast on ideas, information at conference FarmWeek • Page 10 • Monday, December 8, 2014
BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek By working with healthconscious consumers, chef Stacy Pasoni knows many people want to improve their diets, but encounter “information overload” with conflicting and confusing messages. Pasoni, known as the Healthy Hippie Chef, grew up on a cornsoybean farm and will offer ideas to connect specialty growers with potential customers during the Illinois Specialty Stacy Pasoni Crops, Agritourism and Organic Conference. “I’d like to be the bridge for them (farmers),” Pasoni told FarmWeek. The conference will be Jan. 7-9 at the Crowne Plaza, Springfield. The event will start at 10 a.m. Jan. 7 with preconference workshops and continue with breakout sessions through Jan. 9. The preregistration deadline is Dec. 26. An author and healthy living coach, Pasoni demon-
strates healthy cooking on the television program “The Spiel.” She also appeared on “The Today Show” and “Dr. Oz.” “Few people realize where their local fruit and vegetables are from,” Pasoni said. She noted many Illinois residents don’t realize the variety of specialty crops grown in their state. During her Jan. 8 presentation, Pasoni said she’ll discuss creative marketing ideas to help growers reach and retain customers and to promote their products with other growers. “Keep an open mind,” she advised. “There’s not one silver bullet.” During the breakout sessions, growers may learn about new whole farm revenue protection, which offers specialty growers, organic farmers and livestock farmers an opportunity to insure their operation based on their income. “This is an improved version of the previous adjusted growth revenue and adjusted growth revenue-lite program,” said Brian Frieden, regional director of the Risk Management Agency (RMA). “The more diverse the operation is,
the less expensive the premiums.” In addition to a Jan. 8 presentation, RMA staff will offer additional information to help farmers work through their decisions. In pre-conference workshops, participants will hear about different topics in four general subject areas, including pollinators. Steve Chard, chief apiary inspector and supervisor with the Illinois Department of Agriculture, will discuss the state’s hive inspection program, approved bee treatments for pests, the state’s online registry of bee hives and pesticide-sensitive crops, and the size and distribution of the state’s honeybee industry. The pre-conference workshop fee, including lunch, costs $35 for Illinois Specialty Grower Association members (ISGA) and $45 for nonmembers. On-site registration costs an additional $15. The two-day conference fee, including two lunches, totals $65 for ISGA members and $75 for nonmembers with on-site registration costing an additional $15. Banquet tickets cost $25 in advance or $30 at the door.
For more agenda details or to download a registration form, visit {specialtygrowers. org} and click on the “Conference & Trade Show” icon on
the right side. After Dec. 26, participants will need to register at the conference, but will not be guaranteed a lunch.
Entries sought for cider contest Illinois apple cider makers will compete in the 26th Annual Cider Contest and the 13th Annual Hard Cider Contest during the Illinois Specialty Crops, Agritourism and Organic Conference Jan. 7-9 in Springfield’s Crowne Plaza. Contest registration will be Jan. 8 from 8 to 9:45 a.m. with judging at 10 a.m. The Illinois State Horticulture Society sponsors the contest. Illinois contestants will compete against other in-state producers for Illinois awards. They also may submit their best ciders to compete against out-of-state entries for North American Awards. Contestants are asked to submit a 1-gallon, full container of unclarified apple cider that may be fresh or have been stored frozen. Hard cider judges will be looking for a hard apple cider with less than 8 percent alcohol content. Hard ciders containing other fruit flavoring, such as pear, cherry, peach or cranberry will not be considered for judging. Hard cider contestants are asked to submit a 1-quart, but no more than a 1-gallon, container of product for judging. The fee is $10 per entry for each contest. One entry per orchard and/or farm family will be accepted. Winners will be announced during the Jan. 8 banquet. Entry forms are online at {specialtygrowers.org/iscaocconference.html} and at the conference. For more information, contact Elizabeth Wahle, cider contest coordinator, at wahle@uiuc.edu or 618-344-4230.
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Page 11 • Monday, December 8, 2014 • FarmWeek
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IFF spells consumer outreach success for farmers FarmWeek • Page 12 • Monday, December 8, 2014
Four years ago, Illinois Farm Families (IFF) program participants started welcoming Chicago-area moms to their farms to answer questions and share information. And according to those moms, the effort has made a
significant impact on their confidence in food safety. Before participating in IFF farm tours, 80 percent of the Chicago moms felt very concerned with the safety of their food. After the tours, only 10 percent felt concerned about food safety.
What’s more, 88 percent of the moms report their farm visits changed their perceptions of farmers for the better. The moms share their experiences through photos and stories at {watchusgrow.org}. In the last four years, website visitor numbers nearly tripled. In addition to surveying participating moms, IFF also conducted an online focus group of other Chicago-area mothers. This qualitative study of 35 moms provided insight to their collective opinions on food and farming in Illinois. The bottom line? Their confidence in food safety is growing. More than 60 percent of the focus group moms reported feeling confident about the safety of their food. An additional 30 percent ranked their food at least somewhat safe. Regulations and recalls in the food industry proved the primary reasons these moms felt confident about the safety of their food. While 10 percent called their food somewhat unsafe, none of the moms felt their food is completely unsafe. Those who weren’t as confident cited concerns about farmers’ use of chemicals, antibiotics, growth hormones and GMOs as the reasons. Findings from this qualitative
study also show that Chicagoarea moms feel quite positive about Illinois farmers. They believe farmers are honest, genuine and hard-working people. One of the focus group moms said that people who farm exhibit a good work ethic and dedication. She appreciates that farmers have begun opening their farms to the public for transparent learning. However, moms still question farmers’ decisions and why they farm the way they do. In fact, two-thirds want to know more about where their food comes from. The moms also showed interest in locally grown food. Most moms surveyed feel “local” means food grown in Illinois or in sur-
rounding states. In 2015, IFF will again open their doors, welcoming another group of city moms on tours and answering any questions they have about animal care, pesticides, biotechnology and more. IFF will further amplify the program through grocery store tie-ins, social media outreach and speaking opportunities. IFF consists of Illinois farmers who support Illinois Beef Association, Illinois Corn Marketing Board, Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Illinois Soybean Association and Midwest Dairy Association through farmer membership and checkoff programs.
MASON COUNTY BOUNTY T-SHIRTS
IDNR charges television show staff, guests with illegal hunting The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) charged the owners, staff and guests of an outdoor TV show with 134 wildlife violations and illegal hunting of 18 deer in Illinois. IDNR investigators determined “Wired Arrow Outdoors” hunting episodes were recorded on Chicago area property without landowner permission, making any hunting permits invalid. Filming allegedly occurred on property owned by several private companies, the Cook
County Forest Preserve and the Village of Lansing. Investigators determined the TV show staff members unlawfully hunted 18 deer — based on images aired on the Pursuit Channel. Episodes also were uploaded on YouTube. On Sept. 14, a joint operation involved representatives from several states and federal agencies who interviewed TV show staff members who hunted in Illinois. The charges include documented violations from the 2012 and 2013 deer seasons.
Listen.
Taryn Wickman, New Central Elementary School fourth grader, right, models her award-winning T-shirt design with Mason County Farm Bureau Manager Ashley Beutke. With a theme of “Bounty of Mason County,” Wickman joined Katelyn Doyle from Illini Central and Rachel Hayes from Midwest Central as the 16th contest winners. Students learned about Mason County specialty crops and created a picture to illustrate them. Every fourth grade student, teacher and principal received a T-shirt boasting their school’s winning design. Sponsors Mason County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee members and Del Monte distributed 226 Tshirts. (Photo courtesy of Mason County Farm Bureau)
Click.
Read.
The most people, on the ground, in Illinois, covering Illinois agriculture for you. Get to know Deana Stroisch
FarmWeek Agricultural Policy Editor & FarmWeekNow.com contributor ®
Deana has nearly 15 years of reporting experience. She and her colleagues spend countless hours getting the information you need, quickly, accurately, and in a way you can understand. “It’s our job to be there for you,” she says. Federal policy can be complicated, with many twists and turns. So, with each story, Deana sorts out what matters to you.
designed by RFD R285T4
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UREAU — Farm Bureau will co-sponsor a farm bill meeting at 9 a.m. Friday at Bureau County Metro Center. Doug Yoder, Illinois Farm Bureau senior director of affiliate and risk management;
Erika Turner, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; and Justina Chlum, Bureau County Farm Service Agency (FSA), will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 875-6468 to register.
Page 13 • Monday, December 8, 2014 • FarmWeek
C
OOK — Members may purchase discounted Chicago Wolves hockey tickets during December, January and February. Visit {cookcfb.org} for ticket pricing and schedule information. AYETTE — Farm Bureau will co-host an informational farm bill luncheon at noon Dec. 16 at the Farm Bureau office. Doug Yoder, IFB senior director of affiliate and risk management, and Caryl Hickerson, Fayette County FSA, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 2833276 for reservations by Friday. • Farm Bureau will host a Dakota Access Pipeline informational meeting at 1 p.m. Dec. 17 at the Farm Bureau office. Laura Harmon, Illinois Farm Bureau Office of the General Counsel, will speak. EE — Foundation scholarship applications are available at {leecfb.org} for high school seniors and undergraduate students who are pursuing a major in an agrelated field of study. Application deadline is Feb. 1. Call the Farm Bureau office at 8573531 for more information. • Applications are available at {leecfb.org} for Books by
Grain wagon hauls in F support for ag literacy Effingham County farmers harvested more than a bumper crop this season. Through the county Farm Bureau Grain for Growth program, 21 farm families have donated corn and soybeans worth $9,985 during the last two years for ag literacy efforts. Farm Bureau members collect donated grain in a beige gravity wagon with lettering on the side. Joseph Thoele, a former Farm Bureau director, donated the wagon. Residents see the wagon traveling throughout the county and know the grain donations will help match an Illinois Ag in the Classroom grant given to Effingham County Partners for Ag Literacy (PAL). The Effingham County Young Farmers Committee first proposed the idea as a
BY JULIE STEPHENS
fundraiser for PAL’s Ag in the Classroom programs. Farm Bureau represents one of six businesses involved in PAL. Rachel Meinhart, ag literacy coordinator for the Effingham County PAL, pulls the wagon around the county and asks farmers to donate some of their grain. Farmers can contribute as much grain as they desire while in the field or unload from their bins. South Central FS donates all the drying fees. “The farmers in Effingham County have been great at donating grain to PAL, and we are grateful for their donations. The farmers are excited to donate because it is a way to help promote farming in the schools,” said Meinhart.
Julie Stephens serves as Effingham County Farm Bureau manager.
Stan Kuhns of Mason loads corn into the Effingham County Farm Bureau’s Grain For Growth wagon. Twenty-one farm families have donated corn and soybeans worth $9,985 through the program to help match an Illinois Ag in the Classroom grant given to Effingham County Partners for Ag Literacy. (Photo by Julie Stephens)
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the Bushel. Application deadline is Feb. 1. Call the Farm Bureau office at 857-3531 for more information. ONTGOMERY — Prime Timers will host a noon luncheon Dec. 17 at the Farm Bureau office for members 55 and older. The Hillsboro High School Choir will perform. Cost is $9. Call the Farm Bureau office at 5326171 for reservations by Friday. IATT — Farm Bureau will host a cash bash raffle at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Monticello Best Western. Dinner will be served from 6 to 7 p.m. and drawings will begin at 7 p.m. Call the Farm Bureau office at 762-2128 for tickets. Proceeds will benefit the Farm Bureau Foundation and A Small Hand Infant Needs and Diaper Pantry. • Farm Bureau will host farm bill meetings at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the Farm Bureau office and 7:30 p.m. Jan. 6 at Woodlawn Country Club in Farmer City. Call the Farm Bureau office at 762-2128 to register. TARK — Prime Timers will host a luncheon Christmas party from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday at the Farm
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Bureau office. Call the Farm Bureau office at 286-7481 for more information and to register by Tuesday. ERMILION — Farm Bureau will host a farm bill information meeting at 1:30 p.m. Thursday in the Farm Bureau auditorium. Doug Yoder, IFB senior director of affiliate and risk management, will speak. • 2015 Vermilion County plat books are available at the Farm Bureau office. AYNE — Farm Bureau will co-sponsor a farm bill update at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Frontier Community College Foundation Hall, Fairfield. Doug Yoder, IFB senior director of affiliate and risk management; and Noelene Tubbs, FSA, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 842-3342 for reservations. HITE — Farm Bureau will co-sponsor a farm bill update at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Farm Bureau office. Doug Yoder, IFB senior director of affiliate and risk management; and Matt Madewell, FSA, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 382-8512 for reservations.
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Reaching maximum capacity? Let’s talk.
• Justin Welch, DuPont Pioneer: nitrogen management and Encirca services Tuesday: • FarmWeek: “The Early Word” • Freese-Notis Weather • Monica Nyman, St. Louis Dairy Council: healthy holiday eating • Don Norton, Illinois Agricultural Leadership Foundation: new class plans for 2015
Thursday: • Kenny Hartman, Illinois Corn Growers Association: E15 fuel in Chicago • Colleen Callahan, USDA Rural Development: Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program
Wednesday: • Tim Schweizer, Illinois Department of Natural Resources: deer hunting update • Charlyn Fargo, registered dietician: new restaurant calorie labeling rules
Friday: • Don Schaefer, Mid-West Truckers Association: trucking and transportation issues • Christina Messer, USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service: upcoming surveys • “Horse Talk”
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©2013 GROWMARK, Inc. A14144
FarmWeek • Page 14 • Monday, December 8, 2014
Reviewing a fairly orderly harvest Crude oil prices continue downward trend BY AARON CURTIS
With the 2014 harvest nearly wrapped up, it is an interesting exercise to look back and see how it came out versus what was expected. It was assumed to be one of the most challenging harvests in quite a few years. Field surveys led to concerns about the storage capacity in Illinois with record yields predicted. Concerns about rail logistics and truck availability would make transportation difficult, resulting in long lines at the elevator and corn piled everywhere. Fast forward two months and for most of Illinois, harvest occurred in a fairly orderly fashion with both corn and soybeans being put away without any additional stress on the system. This is not to say that some areas did not struggle. Yields in southern Illinois were very good, which forced some delays. Slow rail service was an issue in some parts of the state. A few factors contributed to the smoother than expected process. Harvest space was largely Aaron Curtis empty heading into harvest. Expectations for a large crop aided in the prep work ahead of time to ensure as much space as possible was ready for harvest. Farmers can be included in this category as well. Additional space has been incorporated by farmers during the last year, and a few bins that hadn’t been used in years were dusted off for the large crop potential. The weather also offered some assistance. Corn was slow to dry down early, which allowed harvest to start at a manageable pace. In some instances, this allowed for nearly another month of demand to use existing inventory. There were some wet spells during October that caused harvest to be drawn out and allowed the system to catch up. Once corn harvest began, it did dry down rather quickly, which allowed it to move through channels much quicker than was originally expected. Finally, yields in some parts of the state, unfortunately, were not up to expectations, which limited the space needs in those areas. The net effect on the above reasons proved some benefit to farmers in terms of cash price. Corn basis has quickly recovered as logistic concerns were alleviated and the extra bushels were able to find a home. The lesson here is that harvest typically offers some surprise, and each year can serve as a learning tool for the next. Aaron Curtis serves as MIDCO’s commodity risk consultant. His email address is acurtis@mid-co.com.
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-$77.52 $48.44 40 lbs. (cash) $82.50-$93.00 $87.60 Receipts
This Week 79,537 *Eastern Corn Belt prices picked up at seller’s farm
Last Week 80,078
Eastern Corn Belt direct hogs (plant delivered) Carcass Live
(Prices $ per hundredweight) This week Prev. week Change $85.10 $85.91 -$0.81 $62.97 $63.57 -$0.60
USDA five-state area slaughter cattle price (Thursday’s price)
Steers Heifers
This week $166.00 $166.00
Prev. week $172.74 $172.50
Change -$6.74 -$6.50
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 $244.82 $240.11 $4.71
Lamb prices Negotiated, wooled and shorn, 124-169 lbs. for 154.34-175 $/cwt. (wtd. ave. 163.36)
Export inspections (Million bushels) Week ending Soybeans Wheat Corn 11/27/2014 67.9 10.0 29.3 11/20/2014 104.6 16.6 20.9 Last year 54.9 15.5 36.1 Season total 783.4 446.2 357.1 Previous season total 642.8 659.1 321.1 USDA projected total 1700 900 1750 Crop marketing year began June 1 for wheat and Sept. 1 for corn and soybeans.
BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek
Price relief at the fuel pump should continue through the end of the year and into 2015. The crude oil market continues to sputter amid a supply glut in Europe and growing production in the U.S. Crude oil production nationwide averaged 8.9 million barrels per day in October and could climb to 9 million barrels per day this month. Domestic production could grow to 9.4 million barrels per day in 2015, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). If realized, annual average crude oil production in the U.S. next year would be the highest since 1972. Oil prices subsequently dipped to five-year lows on Dec. 1 around $64 per barrel in the U.S. and below $70 for North Sea Brent crude. The price of Brent crude was at $95 per barrel as recently as Oct. 1. The markets recovered a bit late last week, but the overall price trend remains down. “We’re still on a downtrend, in my opinion,” said Jackie McKinnis, GROWMARK senior energy analyst. The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), typically a swing producer that alters production based on prices, recently announced it plans to maintain oil production at 30
million barrels per day rather than cut production. Some viewed the move as an attempt to put the brakes on U.S. oil production via lower prices, but McKinnis looks for U.S. production to remain strong. “They (in OPEC) are going to have a hard time breaking U.S. production,” she said. “With these lower prices, they’re not hurting (U.S. oil producers) yet.” The oil market hasn’t encountered a break of this magnitude since 2008 when prices plummeted from a high of $147 all the way down to $32. McKinnis doesn’t believe prices will dip that low this time. Saudi Arabia reportedly prepared for a bottom in the Brent crude market around $60, or high $50s in the U.S. market. “Right now, we don’t have any good assurances of where the bottom is,” McKinnis said. “But I don’t see the pendulum going that far (down as it did in 2008).” EIA recently projected prices next year could average $77.75 for crude oil in the U.S. (down from $95 this year), $2.94 per gallon for regular gasoline (down from $3.39 this year) and $3.38 for diesel fuel (down from $3.82 this year). EIA also projects slightly softer prices for natural gas this winter ($3.97/million British thermal units compared to $4.53 last year) due to projections of lower heating demand and higher natural gas production this winter.
2014 a ‘banner’ year for livestock industry in Illinois Record high beef, pork and milk prices coupled with a large drop in feed prices generally was a profitable combination for livestock producers this year. And while herd growth has been slow in other parts of the country, many farmers in Illinois responded by expanding or building new facilities. Jim Fraley, Illinois Farm Bureau livestock program director, reported that, since Jan. 1, beef producers constructed or expanded 41 facilities, 73 swine and 26 dairy facilities were added or expanded, and nine new turkey facilities were approved in Illinois. “It looks like 2014 will mark a banner year for livestock facility construction,” Fraley said. Illinois and other Corn Belt states have a key advantage in the form of ample feed for boosting livestock production compared to other states in the southwest. There also has been expansion of processing facilities in the Midwest, noted Mike Martz, a beef producer from DeKalb and vice president of the Illinois Beef Association. A new beef packing plant recently opened in Tama, Iowa, should draw cows from across the Mississippi River in Illinois. “I see livestock feeding coming back to the Midwest,” Martz said. The favorable economics of livestock production in Illinois in recent years also serves as a key mechanism to draw young people into farming, according to Martz. “People want to bring a son or a daughter back into the business and putting up a (livestock) building or two is how they’re
doing it,” he said. “I see expansion of livestock (production) continuing in Illinois.” Curt Zehr, a hog farmer from Washington and president-elect of the Illinois Pork Producers Association, said modest expansion should continue in that sector. A key for growth in the hog business depends on the industry’s ability to control porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV). The virus devastated many herds the past year. “For pork producers who didn’t have PEDV (in their herds), it’s been a good year. For those with PEDV, it’s been challenging,” Zehr told FarmWeek at the Illinois Commodity Conference. “Hopefully, we’ve learned
more about PEDV (and it won’t be as bad this winter as last year),” he continued. “If so, I think we’ll have a pretty good year (in 2015).” Zehr added new facilities, and a new house, to his farm this year. But that was due to losses sustained from the November 2013 tornado that hit Washington and other parts of the state. “It’s been a challenging year to say the least,” Zehr said. “But the Lord’s been good to us. We’ve been able to sustain our business.” Martz predicts good times for cow/calf producers will continue next year. But he foresees more challenges as crop and livestock prices readjust. — Daniel Grant
Softer milk prices are a reality
The Class III price for milk adjusted to 3.5 percent butterfat for the month of November was announced at $21.94 per hundredweight. This is a decline of $1.88 from the previous month’s announcement. The run of unprecedented milk prices appears to be coming to an end. For the last 11 months, milk prices have stayed above $21. Only once prior had there ever been two consecutive months above $21, which occurred in 2011. These strong numbers are allowing some reinvestment in Illinois dairy operations with upgrades and expansion.
Corn Strategy
Emotions ripe for commodity bottom
If anything, market events of the last week may have finally set commodity prices in general up for a three-year cycle low. To be sure, we may not have seen the absolute low on the Continuous Commodity Index (CCI) for this move, but recent events have positioned it, along with a number of other markets, for a shift in trend at any time. Notably, the $7.50 per barrel drop in crude oil prices the day after Thanksgiving suggested the decline in its price may be about over. West Texas crude oil prices had already dropped from $107 per barrel in June to $73 by Thanksgiving. The $7.50 drop the day after — a 10 percent break — simply looked like an exhaustion of a long, extended move down that had already spanned five months. West Texas crude oil turned in a reversal up the following Monday, and has since chopped sideways in a relatively confined range. Maybe just as important as the Dec. 1 reversal up is the fact it quickly rebounded from an important support at $63.97. A close over $70 would reinforce the impact of the reversal
up, helping build the case that an important low might have been seen. Like the CCI, crude oil prices tend to have important lows every three years, and it’s in its window for that cycle low as well. The strength in the dollar during the last six months has been one of the factors behind the deterioration of commodity prices. The dollar index is closing in on its last major high, 89.624 posted in March 2009. Still, there has been no indication its move up is coming to an end. Nevertheless, it has reached a level at which it is more vulnerable to seeing a shift, dictating a closer focus. Both the CCI and crude oil will remain in the window for their three-year cycle to bottom during the next three to four months, leaving both, along with other commodities, vulnerable to further short-term weakness. But the CCI also has a semiannual cycle that tends to bottom around the end-of-year holidays. And crude oil tends to have a seasonal low sometime in the next couple of months. While nothing is ever certain in forecasting prices, especially market turns, there’s reason to watch for change during the next few months. And once that’s confirmed, it paves the way for generally stronger markets over the next one to two years.
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ü2013 crop: Sustained price strength continues to underscore potential for higher prices later this year. Still, we don’t expect the market to reach long-term, upside targets until spring at the soonest. Storing inventories long term should pay dividends. ü2014 crop: The twomonth trend higher may have come to an end. Still, a new short-term high is possible. Use rallies to get to 50 percent priced, and/or to make needed sales. Use forward bids or hedge-to-arrive contracts against May futures to take advantage of the carry when pricing corn. Significantly higher levels may not come until spring/summer. vFundamentals: Corn demand remains more robust than the industry expected to start the marketing year. Demand for feed, ethanol and exports are all contributing. Even as the trade tries to talk down export demand, new business continues to occur. But it may be producer unwillingness to sell corn that keeps prices stronger than anticipated.
Page 15 • Monday, December 8, 2014 • FarmWeek Cents per bu.
Soybean Strategy
ü2014 crop: Demand for soybeans and soybean meal remain robust, keeping a floor under prices. The pipeline for both is starting to return to normal. Use rallies for catchup sales. If March futures rally to $11, boost sales to 75 percent complete. ü2015 crop: We have no interest in pricing 2015 crop at these levels. The first 15 percent of the 2015 crop was priced at $12.07 basis November 2015 futures. vFundamentals: Signs that demand for soybeans and soybean meal is starting to moderate significantly continue to elude the trade. Export shipments of soybeans did slow last week to 67.9 million bushels, but that only dropped them back to a more normal pace. The 100million-bushel pace is simply unsustainable. Soybean meal demand, and good crush margins could lift the November crush to a new record. South American crops look good. Planting is winding down in Brazil; it is
54 percent done in Argentina, just behind normal.
Wheat Strategy
ü2014 crop: Recommended sales are 65 percent. ü2015 crop: Chicago July has reached our initial target of $6, but we believe that $6.20 is now an obtainable mark that would warrant a first sale for the new crop. vFundamentals: Traders were surprised to hear the Russians announce tariffs might be enacted in order to restrict exports and protect their domestic market. The country’s large surplus has dwindled somewhat after a strong first half of
the trade season. Despite worries over the potential trade restrictions, exporters did offer a small quantity of Russian wheat on the latest Egyptian tender. U.S. wheat was also offered, but prices were nearly $25 per ton over the average price paid. Although U.S. wheat is still priced out of the trade market, weather worries are keeping wheat prices afloat. Part of the reason for Russia’s consideration of export restrictions is due to concern about their growing winter crop. Drought in the Plains and a lack of snow cover also worries U.S. growers.
FarmWeek • Page 16 • Monday, December 8, 2014
Member education and involvement Since its inception, Farm Bureau has been one of the few organizations on a state or national basis to desire directional input from its members. With this desire comes the need to receive ideas from an educated and involved membership. In essence, the more the membership is involved, the better the organization functions to benefit its members. Providing opportunities for education and involvement becomes necessary in order to keep the organization moving forward. IlliRANDY nois Farm DARR Bureau’s Strength With Advisory Teams, or SWAT, is one program that fulfills the need to educate the membership and encourage involvement. From this activity, it is possible to glean information that may give reasons to adjust policy or give the committee avenues to educate the rest of the membership. This year, the SWAT Conservation and Natural Resource (CNR) Committee, on which I served, received information on a number of topics. The 14 members of the committee from across Illinois joined together, and with a consensus, chose the topics they wanted to explore. There are a great number of issues, all of which have a certain amount of importance. With the time constraints of the committee, it
is very difficult to pick just a handful of topics to thoroughly cover. After much discussion, a list that covers a myriad of topics is developed. Once the topics are agreed upon, experts from around the state are brought together to inform the committee about the issues involved with their subject of expertise. It is very helpful to serve on the committee for two years. It takes a little while to figure out just exactly what to do with each committee. With having such an open forum, there is freedom to explore exactly what the committee wants to do. However, it is a minor obstacle to originally come together and narrow the focus of what needs to be a high priority. Some topics are important, but have really never been explored, while others have been in the forefront of discussion around the state for several years. It is rather remarkable how each committee develops a personality of its own and decides what it feels are the topics it wants to survey. Now, in having part of the committee members in their second year and part in their first year, this transition will be achieved very quickly in the future. This will also serve as continuity in moving one group forward to the next. Topics discussed in the SWAT CNR Committee for 2014 were cover crops and how insurance applies, hydraulic fracturing updates, carbon sequestration, geologic mapping, light detection and
ranging, water supply planning, drought monitoring, water use reporting, endangered species, feral swine, deer herd management, Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy, and an update on what is being done to monitor nutrients in eight watersheds around the state. This list shows the diversity of topics chosen this year. The information received from the experts provided committee members with knowledge and resources that they could not have received as easily in one place. The knowledge attained gives committee members the ability to be informed members — those who can articulate a more indepth and concise message to other members and interested individuals. I would like to encourage anyone who has considered joining a SWAT Committee to jump in and become involved. It is only by the members’ efforts that Illinois Farm Bureau remains a strong and viable voice for agriculture. I, for one, appreciate the opportunity of learning about things I normally would not have searched out on my own. SWAT is an excellent opportunity to combine education and involvement in order to help Farm Bureau move forward into an everchanging world.
Randy Darr served on the Conservation and Natural Resource SWAT from 2013-14. President of Soil-Right Consulting Services Inc., Darr is a past member of the Macoupin County Farm Bureau Board.
U.S. food industry continues to evolve Consolidation in the food industry is nothing new. In fact, it seems rather commonplace in an industry where you have the likes of ADM, CocaCola, General Mills, Kraft, Nestle, PepsiCo, Unilever and many others controlling large portions of the marketplace. That’s RYAN not a bad thing TRACY — just something that seems to happen quite often. During the past year, I’ve heard from a number of Farm Bureau members regarding some Illinois companies involved in mergers. I thought I’d share a few of those stories. Back in June, Bolingbrookbased Quantum Foods was purchased by West Liberty Foods for about $12.7 million. Quantum had been scheduled to be auctioned off after it faced some difficult times. West Liberty made the purchase and adds the Bolingbrook facility to three other facilities it owns — two in Iowa and one in Utah. The company hopes to add approximately 400 to 600 new Bolingbrook employees during the next year. In May, Chicago-based Hillshire Brands announced plans to acquire Pinnacle Foods for $4.2 billion. However, less than two weeks after that announcement, Pilgrim’s Pride announced it would pay $6.4 billion to acquire Hillshire. Not to be outdone, Tyson Foods announced a bid of $6.8 billion to purchase Hillshire, followed by a counter from Pilgrim’s Pride. In the end, Tyson’s winning
bid was about $8 billion for Hillshire. Tyson increased its prepared food sales dramatically with the purchase. Tyson forecasts record revenues in 2015. Meanwhile, in food distribution, we expect the finalization of a huge merger. Houston-based Sysco, the nation’s No. 1 food distributor awaits Federal Trade Commission (FTC) approval of its merger with the nation’s No. 2 food distributor, US Foods out of Rosemont. In December 2013, Sysco announced its plans to buy US Foods for $8.2 billion. During the last year, it was thought the FTC would have approved the merger by year’s end, but that doesn’t seem likely now. Look for an early 2015 FTC approval of the merger or possibly into the second quarter. Historically speaking, while the price tags are huge, these mergers do not appear overly shocking. Billions of dollars are being spent, while trends throughout the industry continue to change. The driving force behind these mergers is the almighty dollar, and an attempt by companies to get or keep their foothold in the marketplace. The industry will continue to evolve, and there will be opportunities to take advantage of the ever-changing landscape. Assets change hands, get merged, sold off and closed. This creates opportunities for other companies to come in and stake their claim. Who will be the next company to make a move?
Ryan Tracy serves as Illinois Farm Bureau director of external relations.
Ever nibbled quinoa? Here’s the scoop on this ‘in’ grain
I have been enjoying trying new foods, especially those I prepare from scratch myself. Recently, I made homemade granola and several types of bread. The recipes called for ingredients I wasn’t RHONDA FERREE familiar with: quinoa, flax guest columnist seed, wheat germ and wheat bran. That, of course, made my plant-geek mind want to know more about the plants that produce them. Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is a tiny grain-like seed that is sometimes called a pseudocereal. It is used like a cereal grain, but does not grow on a grassy plant like wheat, rye, oats and other cereals.
Instead, quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is in the goosefoot family and related to the weed, common lambsquarter (Chenopodum album), as well as beets and spinach. Quinoa is native to the Andes Mountains of South America and is a staple food there. The plant grows 3 to 6 feet tall, and comes in a range of colors including white, yellow, pink, red, purple and black. Goosefoot-shaped leaves grow alternately along a woody stalk. Since quinoa prefers a mountain environment, my guess is it will not grow well in central Illinois. It prefers warm days and cool nights; and similar to its cousin, spinach, it will not develop properly if the nights are too warm.
In Colorado, it needs 90 to 125 days after planting to fully develop seed. In comparison, most tomatoes produce ripe fruit in 75 to 85 days. Quinoa is very expensive. I paid $12 for a 26-ounce bag. Limited production is probably the main reason for the high price. It also has to be washed and milled to remove the bitter seed coat. Many sources consider quinoa “one of the world’s most perfect foods.” It is very high in protein, amino acids and many nutrients. Although it is grown primarily for its seed, the leaves can also be eaten fresh or cooked. I used quinoa to make dried tomato-basil bread. Other recipes I plan to try include
muffins and soup. It can also be cooked like rice and served plain. I’ll post some recipes on my ILRiverHort blog found at {http://web. extension.illinois.edu/fmpt}. Although quinoa is probably difficult to grow here, we can grow a similar crop — amaranth. Amaranth is a warm season crop and even tolerates drought. Because it doesn’t have the bitter seed coat, it is easier to harvest and use. Unfortunately, amaranth is related to pigweed and can be quite invasive once established.
Rhonda Ferree serves as a University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator in Fulton, Mason, Peoria and Tazewell counties.