Farmweek january 12 2015 by Illinois Farm Bureau

Illinois government leaders face a seemingly endless number of budget challenges. page 3

Tired of the cold? Just wait. State climatologist Jim Angel doesn’t expect a repeat of winter 2014. page 6

Lower grain prices could affect farmers’ decisions regarding treatment of crop pests and diseases. page 7

Ag groups: End trade embargo with Cuba Monday, January 12, 2015

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

A growing coalition representing about 30 agricultural groups and businesses called on Congress last week to put an end to the trade embargo with Cuba. The U.S. Agricultural Coalition for Cuba (USACC), which includes American Farm Bureau Federation, Illinois Farm Bureau and Illinois Soybean Growers (ISG), publicly announced the group’s formation during a press conference

Two sections Volume 43, No. 2

in Washington, D.C. “Fifty-four years of unilateral sanctions is an experiment that has gone on far too long,” said Devry Boughner Vorwerk, chairman of the USACC. “It is a failed policy, and it is time that we offer our two countries a better option.” Boughner Vorwerk and Paul Johnson, vice chairman of the coalition and executive director of the Illinois Cuba Working Group, said the group will work with Congress to help develop new policies.

“Our message is that U.S. strength and Cuban sovereignty is more powerful than a U.S.-Cuban embargo,” Johnson said. Illinois Farm Bureau policy supports “resumption of normal trading relations with Cuba,” including elimination of restrictions on U.S. citizens traveling to Cuba and simplifications of licensing and shipping requirements for sales to Cuba. About 20 farmers and Illinois Farm Bureau staff visited Cuba in 2012.

“If we’re going to see any movement on ending the embargo and opening up this nearby market to our products and ideals, ag is going to have to show up,” said Adam Nielsen, IFB’s director of national legislation and policy development. “The creation of USACC demonstrates there’s strong farmer and industry support for turning the page on Cuba.” U.S. Agricultural Secretary Tom Vilsack described the policy changes announced by

President Barack Obama as “significant.” “He has done what he can do to address some of the barriers that exist to expanded agricultural exports in Cuba. But there are still legislative hurdles to cross,” Vilsack said. “The president and this administration look forward to engaging with Congress in an honest and serious debate about what we can do to produce and promote positive

State funding remains Farm Bureau’s top legislative priority BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Periodicals: Time Valued

The Illinois Farm Bureau board, in setting the state legislative priorities, made support for core agricultural program funding among the top priorities. The feeling that the state’s financial crisis remains a central focus at the Capitol was reinforced by Governor-elect Bruce Rauner when he addressed IFB leaders and warned about the state’s deep financial problems and difficult times ahead. IFB will seek passage of a state budget containing necessary funding for key ag programs and existing services that protect consumers, landowners and farmers, the IFB board decided in December. “Illinois agriculture will once again be faced with a proposed state budget in which tough decisions will have to be made on funding to state programs,”

said Kevin Semlow, IFB director of state legislation. Semlow noted Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) key programs include meat and poultry inspections, oversight of grain warehouses and dealers, and services regulating weights and measures, pesticide use and animal health. Other important IDOA programs directly support production agriculture, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, the University of Illinois Extension and county fairs. On related fiscal matters, another IFB priority seeks to maintain the sales tax incentives for agricultural goods and services, and to ensure business-tobusiness transactions are not taxed as part of state sales tax reform. “The current sales tax incentives on goods used for production agriculture must remain in place for the health and viability of the agricultural economy,” Semlow said. During the IFB annual meeting, Rauner said the state needs Illinois farmers to be competitive, and “our policy will reflect what other states do.” The state grants farmers several sales tax incentives on goods, such as seed, feed, fertilizer, ag crop treatments and equipment for raising a crop. “These incentives originally were granted based on the tax policy that crops and livestock are part of the production process for food, which will be taxed at the final retail sale,” Semlow explained. If enlarging the state tax base is considered to include an increased list of

See Cuba, page 5

Len Corzine, at podium, a member of Gov. Bruce Rauner’s transition team, shares ideas with ag leaders attending last week’s Illinois Agricultural Legislative Roundtable. Transition team member Jeff Beasley, center, a Williamson County farmer, and Illinois Farm Bureau Vice President David Erickson helped facilitate discussion. (Photo by Ken Kashian)

services, IFB will seek the exclusion of all business-to-business service sales from the sales tax. “This approach will keep the sales tax on services from becoming a pyramiding tax structure, similar to a gross receipts tax with each transaction taxed rather than the final transaction with the customer,” Semlow said. Other IFB state legislative priorities include: • Legislation requiring any decision to permanently post a road at a reduced weight limit or to permanently close a road entail unanimous approval of the road commissioner, county engineer and a majority of the elected members of the board associated with the road district. • Support legislation that modern-

izes state sales tax incentives for ethanol-blended fuels by expediting the sunset of the 10 percent ethanol blended fuel incentive and creates additional demand for the use of fuels containing higher ethanol blends. • Support legislation to implement changes in federal trucking regulations regarding the Commercial Driver’s License regulations for farmers. • Explore opportunities to amend Illinois Commerce Commission expedited review procedures for new large, complex high-voltage electric service lines to better protect landowners’ rights. • Oppose legislation eliminating the overtime exemption for agricultural employers or implementing an increase in the minimum wage. www.facebook.com/illfarmbureau

Quick Takes

FarmWeek • Page 2 • Monday, January 12, 2015

APPLE CIDER AFICIONADOS

IDOA DEDICATES FFA ROOM — The emblem and motto followed by FFA members nationwide now adorn the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) building after state Agriculture Director Bob Flider recently dedicated a conference room to honor the organization. IDOA employees suggested enhancing agriculture’s presence in the building by renaming one room, the FFA Conference Room. “Now, every time this room is used — and it’s used frequently by ag and non-ag groups alike — visitors will learn about the great work this youth education program does to develop the future leaders of our state’s top industry,” Flider said. The FFA motto states: “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve.”

GRAIN PRICE OUTLOOK WEBINAR — University of Illinois Professors Darrel Good and John Newton will host a corn and soybean price outlook webinar from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Tuesday. The webinar follows USDA’s 2014 final production and Dec. 1 stocks estimate report. Good and Newton will discuss implications for corn and soybean prices. To register, visit {https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/regis ter/3937040340610300162}. Once registered, participants will receive a confirmation email from GoToWebinar (Citrix) containing information about joining the webinar. GET FIRSTHAND LOOK AT SOY CHECKOFF — Want an opportunity to visit with soybean customers and see their impact on farmers’ bottom lines? Consider applying for the United Soybean Board’s See for Yourself program. Soybean farmers over the age of 18 can apply until Jan. 23 at {unitedsoybean.org/seeforyourself}. The program takes place July 24-31. Ten participants will be chosen to visit soybean end users and learn about checkoff funded projects, and provide their perspective on those projects.

CROP INSURANCE TOOL AVAILABLE — How much could you pay in crop insurance premiums this year? The University of Illinois’ 2015 Crop Insurance Decision Tool can provide answers. The new tool can be accessed at {farmdocdaily.illinois. edu/2015/01/release-of-2015-crop-insurance-decisiontool.html}. Gary Schnitkey, U of I ag economist, noted 2015 projected premiums will be higher than 2014 premiums in most cases. In addition to Area Risk Protection Insurance, the tool provides premiums for the new Supplemental Coverage Option. Final quotes can be made after February when 2015 projected prices and volatilities will be set. COMMODITIES CONFERENCE CLARIFICATION — The MID-CO Commodities outlook conference Jan. 27 in Bloomington is for commercial grain elevator employees only, and therefore not open to the public. A Jan. 5 FarmWeek story omitted specific details about attendee restrictions.

(ISSN0197-6680) Vol. 43 No. 2 January 12, 2015 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

Cider judges sip contest entries and look for clarity during last week’s Illinois Specialty Crops, Agritourism and Organic Conference in Springfield. Judges include, from left, Ben Wright, Brownsburg, Ind.; Laura George, Mount Vernon; Carl Dewer, Mason; and David Shiley, University of Illinois. (Photo by Ken Kashian)

Chef to growers: Promote uses along with produce BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Southern Illinois chef and author Stacy Pasoni last week peppered growers with ideas to make their fruits, vegetables and specialty products enticing to timestrapped, information-overloaded consumers. “Farmers can expand and tailor their markets to alleviate consumer confusion,” Pasoni told Illinois Specialty Crops, Agritourism and Organic ConStacy Pasoni ference participants in Springfield. She urged farmers to offer customers “easy and convenient” ideas to use their produce in multiple ways. “It doesn’t cost more to buy fresh produce,” when those fresh ingredients produce meals made from leftovers for several days, Pasoni countered a consumer claim. “Provide your customers with fast prep recipes,” she said, showing images of farm-

grown salad kits that included a homemade salad dressing recipe. She encouraged growers to offer free samples as a way to entice customers who might buy more product. Pasoni continued with a smorgasbord of locations where specialty growers might find new customers. Those ran the gamut from health clubs and church groups to events, such as health fairs, running races and parades. Pasoni reported a teller at her bank even gave apples as a Christmas gift to customers. Social media ranked high on Pasoni’s list for consumer marketing. First, farmers need to assess their current strategies that work and those that don’t, she said. “You have to be willing to change if it’s not working,” she advised, but warned growers not to expect a “field of dreams” and customers flooding in with a simple change. Pasoni placed importance on images and pictures that attract consumers, who frequently “buy with their

eyes,” and emphasized attractive, creative product displays. “Give customers a reason to stop by,” Pasoni offered. She suggested free cups of coffee and tea, discount coupons on the back of farm business cards, punch cards for a discount after a certain amount of purchases and periodic growing season updates to whet appetites. On holidays,

FarmWeekNow.com

Visit FarmWeekNow.com to watch Kay Shipman’s interview with Stacy Pasoni.

provide customers recipes that incorporate farm produce, she added. While farmers hope to gain new customers, she urged them not to forget their existing ones. “Don’t underestimate the value of customer retention,” Pasoni said, adding attracting a new customer may cost five times more than retaining a current one. As one of those customers, Pasoni thanked her farmer audience for their hard work. “Please keep growing our food,” she said.

Farm bill: Your questions answered

In addition to hosting informational meetings across the state, Illinois Farm Bureau’s Doug Yoder will answer FarmWeek reader questions about farm bill decisions farmers face. This week’s question: Q: Is there any reason not to update payment yields? A: If the updated yield is higher than the current established payment yield on file with Farm Service Agency, there is no known reason not

Price Loss Coverage will be able to utilize the updated yield, it’s still recommended to update all farms that have higher updated yields given the uncertainty of future farm programs allowing the opportunity to update.

to update regardless of the safety net option chosen. Even though only farms electing

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.

Flider sees successes carved from challenges Page 3 • Monday, January 12, 2015 • FarmWeek

BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Who knew the post of Illinois agriculture director meant working on rock pinnacle demolition on the bed of the Mississippi River? Not outgoing Ag Director Bob Flider. In 2012, the new agriculture director confronted drought-related navigation problems after the farm and fertilizer industries asked Flider to help. The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) joined the state agencies for transportation and economic development and “did all we could to solve those problems, and in doing so, be part of a solution,” Flider told FarmWeek. Partnerships and solutions ranked high last week as Flider looked back on his time as Gov. Pat Quinn’s ag director.

He addressed his last Illinois Agricultural Legislative Roundtable last week in Bloomington. Flider was confirmed in November 2012 after serving several months as interim director. Another unexpected consequence of the 2012 drought included IDOA’s efforts to receive its first approval to blend aflatoxin-contaminated corn from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “I couldn’t have envisioned that,” Flider said. Along with more unusual challenges faced by IDOA, Flider proudly pointed to others in which the agency and its staff worked diligently on agriculture’s and farmers’ behalf. “I couldn’t be more proud of our intervention, on three occasions since I’ve been director, to avoid a default (by

a grain facility),” he said. “Had there been a default, the farmers would have had to get relief through the grain insurance fund.” The ag industry needs to ensure state funding remains sufficient to support IDOA’s Bureau of Warehouse and other key bureaus and staff, Flider urged. “It’s going to be tough for the state of Illinois ... You’ve been there fighting for agriculture, and that’s going to be as important as it’s ever been,” Flider told ag leaders. Flider told FarmWeek ag leaders also need to work with the new governor, the Office of Management and Budget and the legislature because “competing (budget) pressure” will be high. Partnerships with the ag industry comprise one of the

Outgoing Illinois Ag Director Bob Flider, left, talks agriculture with Jim Larkin, former acting Illinois ag director. Flider told Illinois Agricultural Legislative Roundtable participants that he wants to continue supporting agriculture. (Photo by Ken Kashian)

aspects Flider most enjoyed. “That’s been an exhilarating thing to work in this industry ... to find ways to work out solutions,” he said. He described his time as state

agriculture director as “an honor of a lifetime and pretty hard to top.” “I will continue to be as supportive of agriculture as I can,” Flider concluded.

answers to the state’s unfunded pension system, Long mentioned a couple scenarios. “There are no easy solutions,” he warned. Illinois remains bedeviled by economic situations that other states and the nation resolved or at least improved, Long explained. Consider unemployment. The state’s unemployment rate, while improved recently and came closer to other Midwestern states and the nation, remains a full point higher than its Midwestern counterparts. In fact, Illinois never recovered the jobs lost during the 2002 recession before the next recession started at the end of 2007. “We still have 240,000 fewer people working today where

many other states recouped (lost jobs),” making Illinois’ struggle to reach a new high employment rate even more difficult, he said. In addition, Illinois fights a perceived reputation as a below-average business climate state, based on low rankings by several economic studies, according to Long. Among four studies, Illinois ranked an average of 39.8, the lowest ranking of all Midwestern states. He added those low business climate rankings occurred at the same time voters ranked the economy as their No. 1 concern. “This is a stigma that Illinois must overcome to attract and retain new businesses,” Long said.

No rosy picture painted for Illinois’ fiscal future

BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Illinois faces a $3.25 billion revenue decrease at the same time expenditures may grow to $1.723 billion, and the state lags behind every Midwestern state in job growth, Illinois Agricultural Legislative Roundtable members heard last week in Bloomington. “This is an interesting time in Illinois when we start the budget process,” said Dan Long, executive director of the state Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA). COGFA operates as a bipartisan, joint legislative commission that provides the General Assembly with economic information. Long outlined a series of fis-

‘There are no easy solutions.’ — Dan Long executive director, state Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability

cal challenges and raised several questions about how Gov. Bruce Rauner and the General Assembly may react. Will personal and corporate income tax incentives be extended or spending cut? “Maybe both. Not sure,” he said. Will the Illinois Supreme Court uphold the pension system changes for state and uni-

versity employees and teachers? “Looks like that may be struck down by the courts,” he said, adding the justices may give their ruling in May. How will local governments deal with continued increases to employee pension systems? Chicago especially faces a significant debt of $32 billion, he noted. Asked about possible

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Chicago’s E15 ordinance could be delayed again FarmWeek • Page 4 • Monday, January 12, 2015

BY DEANA STROISCH FarmWeek

Already “caught up in politics,” a proposal to mandate the sale of E15 at most selfservice gas stations in Chicago could face further delays. Rodney Weinzierl, executive director of the Illinois Corn Growers Association, told the Illinois Agricultural Legislative Roundtable last

week he doesn’t expect the Chicago City Council to vote on the ordinance at its Jan. 21 meeting. Chicago’s mayoral election next month could delay the issue further, he said. A runoff election, if needed, could occur in April. The proposed ordinance, sponsored by Aldermen Edward Burke and Anthony

Beale, would require self-service stations that sell more than 850,000 gallons a year to offer E15. About 240 stations in Chicago would qualify, he said. The ordinance was first introduced in July. The council’s finance committee approved it in December. The proposal sparked a “very public battle” in the

media, he said. Public testimony during committee hearings lasted hours. Some opponents say the new pumps would be too expensive to install. Weinzierl noted the ethanol industry committed $10 million to help stations pay for needed conversions if the ordinance passes. Stations that have incompatible underground

tanks also would be exempted, he said. E15 is a higher octane fuel approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for use in 2001 and newer passenger vehicles and flex-fuel vehicles. The fuel is not approved for use in boats or small engines. Illinois Farm Bureau supports the proposal.

FARM Illinois connecting state’s agriculture, food, business assets

BY KAY SHIPMAN FarmWeek

Lori Healey, FARM Illinois director, and Illinois Farm Bureau President Rich Guebert Jr. discuss growth opportunities for Illinois’ ag, food and business industries at last week’s Illinois Agricultural Legislative Roundtable in Bloomington. (Photo by Ken Kashian)

A new strategy partnership aims to refine efforts to connect Illinois’ agriculture, food and business assets, while exploring growth opportunities across those industries, strategy leaders told the Illinois Agricultural Legislative Roundtable last week in Bloomington. FARM Illinois grew from the roots of the Vision for Illinois Agriculture. The partnership includes food, agricul-

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‘This is meant to be a first step. The recommendations will come out with additional follow-up ...’ — Lori Healey FARM Illinois initiative director

ture and business interests in the state. FARM Illinois’ committees faced a challenge to differentiate Illinois from other agricultural states and to tap into those resources, according to Lori Healey, the initiative director. “We’re trying hard to bridge the I-80 gap” between the Chicago area and downstate, she added. FARM Illinois committees are working to complete their recommendations by midMarch, and for the group strategy and first recommendations to be finished by April 15 to meet state legislative deadlines, according to Healey. “This is meant to be a first step. The recommendations will come out with additional follow-up so (the strategy follow through) will not just fall on IFB (Illinois Farm Bureau) and ag,” she added. FARM Illinois governance includes several committees. Those include: Production and Supply Chain Committee, co-chaired by IFB President Richard Guebert Jr.; Trans-

portation, Logistics, Physical and Financial Infrastructure Committee; Sustainability and Community/Economic Development Committee; International Markets and Global Food Security Committee; and Innovation, Education and Workforce Development Committee. Tyler Strom, FARM Illinois project manager, highlighted some of the committees’ main focuses. Strom also offered the strategic plan goals. Those include: drive science-based innovation, enable sustainable economic growth, encourage public-private partnership and collaboration, develop a world-class workforce, address community development and nutrition needs, conserve natural resources, adapt to climate change pressures, address global food security demands, and integrate the Chicago business community with the food and agricultural community throughout the state. Visit {farmillinois.org} for additional information.

IADD conference deadline near

The Illinois Association of Drainage Districts (IADD) annual conference offers sessions on regulatory, environmental and legal issues Jan. 29-30 at the Wyndham Garden Inn, Urbana. The early registration deadline is Jan. 20. Breakout session topics include the Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy, cover crops, U.S. Army Corps of Engineer issues, Illinois Department of Natural Resources permits, buffer strips and denitrifying bioreactors. The registration fee is $60 for IADD members and $90 for nonmembers. After Jan. 20, the fees increase to $70 and $100, respectively. For more information or to register, visit {IADD.info} and click on the “events” icon at the top of the page or call IADD at 217-763-6300.

Celebrate 2015: ‘Year of Soils’

Page 5 • Monday, January 12, 2015 • FarmWeek

WATER USE REPORTING

Welcome to 2015, the International Year of Soils as deemed by the United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization. In conjunction with the effort, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will coordinate activities to mark the effort. The year of awareness aims to increase global understanding of the importance of soil for food security and essential ecosystem functions. “Most people don’t realize that just beneath our feet lies a diverse, complex, life-giving ecosystem that sustains our entire existence,” said Jason Weller, NRCS chief. “We are helping producers unlock the power of soil health as part of an important and very successful national campaign. Our campaign demonstrates our renewed commitment to soil conservation and soil health.” NRCS will work with the

Steven Wilson, right, groundwater hydrologist with the Illinois State Water Survey, and McHenry County specialty growers Mike and Tracie Von Bergen of Hebron discuss a state law requiring reporting of water use from high capacity wells during last week’s Illinois Specialty Crops, Agritourism and Organic Conference in Springfield. (Photo by Kay Shipman)

Ag career conference to focus on women More than 700 female high school and college agriculture students are expected to join women ag leaders at the sixth Women Changing the Face of Agriculture Career Event March 6 at Illinois State University’s Bone Student Center, Normal. Registration closes Jan. 31 or when attendance capacity occurs. The program contains a focus toward female high school and college students and groups, such as FFA chapters and 4-H Clubs.

Cuba

Presenters include women industry leaders representing DuPont-Pioneer, Farm Bureau, GROWMARK Inc., Illinois Department of Agriculture, Monsanto, USDA and a wide spectrum of the agriculture industry. Participants will learn about career options and join afternoon workshops on skills and networking. For more information or to register, visit {womenchangingthefaceofagriculture. com}.

change in Cuba.” Obama’s plan to re-establish diplomatic relations with Cuba – the first change in policy since 1961 — also calls for opening an embassy in Havana in the coming months, easing travel and financial restrictions, and reviewing Cuba’s designation as a “state sponsor of terrorism.” Farmers have been able to export products to Cuba, but Continued from page 1

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Soil Science Society of America and other partners to showcase the importance of soil. Monthly themes include: • January: Soils Sustain Life • February: Soils Support Urban Life • March: Soils Support Agriculture • April: Soils Clean and Capture Water • May: Soils Support Buildings/Infrastructure • June: Soils Support Recreation • July: Soils Are Living • August: Soils Support Health • September: Soils Protect the Natural Environment • October: Soils and Products We Use • November: Soils and Climate • December: Soils, Culture and People For more information, visit {www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/soils/yos/}.

financial restrictions have made it difficult to compete in the market. “Several days after President Obama’s Dec. 17 announcement on Cuba, a senior White House official told us that the support from agriculture, especially the new USACC, helped give the president the domestic momentum necessary to move forward with his Cuba initiatives,” said Mark Albertson, ISG strategic market development director.

Attend a meeting at your convenience ...

Date

Location

City

Time

Contact

January 16

Ve ermil ermilion County Farm Bureau

Danville

9:00 AM

Mark Stutsman, 217-431-8722

January 19

Marine Bank Community Room

Carthage

9:00 AM

Kristin Huls, 217-357-3141

January 19

Quincy Mall

Quincy

1:00 PM

Shawn Valter a , 217-222-7305

January 19

U of I Extension

Jacksonville

6:00 PM

Lindsay McQueen, 217-245-6833

January 20

Washington ashi County Farm Bureau

Nashville

8:00 AM

Brad Conant, 618-327-3081

January 20

Sunrise Community Center

Newton

1:00 PM

Tony Trimble, 618-783-2733

January 20

Cumberland County Farm Bureau

Toledo

7:00 PM

Sarah Walk, Walk, 217-849-3031

January 21

Will County Farm Bureau

Joliet

1:30 PM

Mark Schneidewind, 815-727-4811

January 21

Kinsman Community Center

Kinsman

6:30 PM

Tasha Bunting, 815-942-6400

January 23

Elks Club Banquet Room

Pontiac

8:30 AM

Marlon Eilts, 815-842-1376

NC380D4

Additional meetings take place through March. Follow FarmWeek FarmW Week k®, FarmW FarmWeekNow.com, eekNow.com, your favorite RFD Radio Networ Network k® radio station, or ilfb.org/farmbill to learn more.

Cold snap raises concerns on farms Climatologist: Winter weather

FarmWeek • Page 6 • Monday, January 12, 2015

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

The blast of arctic air that invaded the Midwest last week created concerns for crop and livestock farmers. In southern Illinois, where a majority of the state’s wheat crop grows, there was little to no snow cover to protect the crop from frigid temperatures. “It (the possibility of winter damage) is always a concern, especially with the crop lacking progress,” said Kyle Brase, a Madison County farmer and president of the Illinois Wheat Association. “It (the wheat crop) went in late and had very little growth (prior to dormancy).” Kyle Brase The condition of the winter wheat crop in Illinois as of the first of last week rated 68 percent fair, 21 percent good, 8 percent poor and just 3 percent excellent. Brase believes intensive management will be vital to save stands and maximize yields this spring. “We’re going to start assessing stands and looking at plant viability (in the months ahead),” Brase said. “Management will be key. We’re probably looking at split nitrogen applications to make this crop what we want it to be in my area.” Brase at this point doesn’t foresee a major loss of wheat stands unless winter conditions deteriorate and remain harsh for an extended period. “I’m not overly concerned right now,” he

said. “If we lose a few plants (to winterkill), I don’t think it will be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.” Meanwhile, cattle producers should address cold stress this winter to maintain necessary body conditioning heading into the calving season, according to Ron Lemenager, Purdue University Extension beef cattle specialist. Cattle can maintain an optimal body score of 5 to 5.5 (an industry rating of body weight) as long as they have a dry winter coat and access to a windbreak. The energy requirement for a cow with a good body condition and dry winter coat increases about 13 percent for each 10-degree drop in the wind chill factor below 30 degrees. The energy requirement for a thin cow, or one with a wet coat, however, increases to 30 percent for each 10-degree drop in wind chill. “We need to think about supplementing forage-based maintenance diets with a high energy feed during cold spells that last more than a couple of days,” Lemenager said. “Energy supplements could include corn, soybean hulls and wheat midds.” Cows also should have adequate access to water and a windbreak. Lemenager suggests not housing cows in a closed barn during winter months as the humidity in those conditions could lead to respiratory problems. Most hogs in the state are protected from the winter weather by temperature-controlled facilities. But producers should remain alert as porcine epidemic diarrhea virus and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome typically are more prevalent during the winter months.

not likely to repeat last year Sub-freezing temperatures most of last week and a fairly widespread band of snow likely reminded many Illinoisans of last year’s brutal winter. The temperature in the state last January through March averaged a bone-chilling 6.9 to 11.5 degrees below normal to begin what turned out to be the fourth-coldest

But Angel said he currently leans more toward the possibility of winter temperatures closer to average the rest of the season. Meanwhile, both the Climate Prediction Center and Angel call for an increased chance of below normal precipitation this winter. Less snow this winter could hurt the snow recre-

‘I don’t expect a repeat of last winter, which was exceptionally cold.’ — Jim Angel State climatologist, Illinois State Water Survey

year on record dating back to 1895, according to Jim Angel, state climatologist with the Illinois State Water Survey. The good news so far this winter was a mild December, which ended with an average temperature of 33.4 degrees, 3.5 degrees above normal. “We’ve not really set the tone for (this) winter, yet,” Angel said last week at the University of Illinois Corn and Soybean Classic. “I don’t expect a repeat of last winter, which was exceptionally cold.” The arctic air was expected to retreat late last week. “It looks like the cold air will move out and we’ll get back to near-average conditions (this week),” Angel said. The Climate Prediction Center last month called for an increased chance of below normal temperatures for much of Illinois from January through March.

ation industry and snow removal businesses, but it wouldn’t have a major impact on farmers, except for winter wheat growers who count on snow as a protective blanket for that crop. Topsoil moisture statewide last week remained in good shape at 80 percent adequate, 12 percent surplus and just 8 percent short. Weather experts also continue to monitor the possibility of El Nino, warmer than normal sea surface temperatures forming in the Pacific. Current models suggest a 65 percent chance of El Nino taking shape in coming months, Angel noted. “We thought it (El Nino) would be here by now. It’s been slow to develop,” Angel said. “If it does show up, that’s good news for us” in Illinois as it would increase the chance of milder spring and summer conditions. — Daniel Grant

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Departs June 17 & July 22, 2015. Begin in Denver and enjoy a city tour followed by Cheyenne, the rodeo and railroad capital of the Old West. Then visit the Fort Laramie Historic Site and the majestic beauty of the Black Hills, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial. Explore the frontier town of Deadwood; “Little Big Horn National Monument” and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Continue to Yellowstone National Park with opportunities to see spectacular geysers, lakes and mountains, including “Old Faithful.” Then visit sister park Grand Teton, offering stunning views and extraordinary wildlife. Next, it’s Salt Lake City with a tour including The Great Salt Lake. Head west and visit the Utah Field House Museum and Dinosaur National Monument full of exhibits and scenery to explore. Your journey ends with a tour of Rocky Mountain National Park and thrilling drive on Trail Ridge Road, also known as the “highway to the sky.” The 7/22 departure date also includes (admission) the Cheyenne Frontier Days PRCA Rodeo Event. *

PPDO. Plus $159 tax/service/government fees. Alternate May - September departure dates available that exclude the Cheyenne Frontier Days PRCA Rodeo Event. Seasonal charges may apply. Add-on airfare available.

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Integrated pest management crucial for upcoming season Page 7 • Monday, January 12, 2015 • FarmWeek

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

Farmers this year should develop an integrated pest management (IPM) plan, if they don’t currently use one on their farms, to effectively handle pest outbreaks. This includes the need for farmers to roll up their sleeves and scout each field, or hire a crop scout to do it, and base input decisions on economic thresholds of pests. “I want growers to carefully think through the manage-

ment of input decisions in 2015,” Mike Gray, University of Illinois entomologist, said last week at the U of I Corn and Soybean Classic in Peoria. “This is where IPM comes into play,” he continued. “Scout fields and equip yourself with the knowledge of economic thresholds and apply those inputs once an insect population reaches the threshold level.” Crop scouting has always been a key part of pest management. But some farmers in recent years bypassed scouting

Corn hybrid selection key to managing foliar diseases

Yield potential and price often rank among the top factors farmers consider when choosing a corn hybrid. But disease resistance also should be a key consideration for hybrid selection, particularly for farmers who have fields with a history of foliar diseases, according to Carl Bradley, University of Illinois plant pathologist. Some foliar diseases, particularly northern leaf blight and Goss’s bacterial wilt, flourished last year. “It (northern leaf blight) was a little more widespread last year than we’ve seen in a while,” Bradley told FarmWeek at the U of I Corn and Soybean Classic in Peoria. “A lot of it came down to weather,” he continued. “We had more moderate (summer) temperatures and some areas of the state had a lot of rainfall (an ideal combination for some foliar diseases).” Farmers who had fields with either of the diseases, or gray leaf spot, should consider purchasing corn seed with resistance to those diseases for this year. Disease pressure can be even higher in fields of corn-oncorn or continuous corn. “It’s important to consider disease-resistant traits, especially if you have a history of disease in your fields,” Bradley said. “The pathogens overwinter in corn debris.” Widespread use of minimum or no-till practices also contributes to the prevalence of the diseases, particularly in corn-on-corn. The use of fungicides helps protect corn yield against northern leaf blight, but not Goss’s wilt as bacteria causes that disease. Farmers should monitor fields throughout the season and, if a disease outbreak occurs, calculate whether or not a rescue treatment will be beneficial. Early infections of Goss’s wilt prior to pollination typically cause the most yield loss. “If you’ve got hybrids that have a pretty good level of resistance, you may not need a foliar fungicide,” Bradley noted. Lower crop prices also affect whether or not the use of fungicides pays off. Farmers needed a yield bump of about 8 bushels last year to pay for a fungicide application. “As we have lower commodity prices, it takes more bushels to pay for that fungicide,” Bradley said. “It’s certainly something that has to be considered.” Gray leaf spot generally wasn’t as prevalent last year as it thrives in warm temperatures and high humidity. It’s most common in central and southern Illinois. — Daniel Grant

FarmWeekNow.com

Go to FarmWeekNow.com to hear Mike Gray’s comments on insect pest potential in 2015.

or threshold evaluations and made some insecticide applications for pest prevention or as yield insurance due to previously high crop prices that made treatments more economical. “I’d argue that a lot of treatments are unnecessary,” Gray said. “Utilizing inputs that are not needed will cut into profits and may hasten resistance development of some key insect pests, such as the western corn rootworm.” The pesky western corn rootworm population in Illinois adapted to crop rotation, making first-year corn in east central, central and northeastern Illinois susceptible to injury. More recently a portion of the western corn rootworm population developed resistance to some Bt proteins. “The issue of Bt resistance is a continuing threat,” Gray said. “In those cases, I think we’ll see (the use of) soil insecticide.” Other insects to keep an eye on include, but are not limited to, Japanese beetle populations that have blos-

somed in north central and northwest Illinois, bean leaf beetle populations that surged on the western edge of the state and northern corn rootworm densities that are expanding in the north. Populations of many insects that overwinter in Illinois were suppressed in 2014 by last year’s harsh winter. But it’s too early to tell how insects, such as the rootworm which overwinters as eggs in the soil, will

survive this winter. “So far this winter, it’s uncertain,” Gray said. “December was kind of mild, but now we’re in a cold stretch. It’s probably too early to tell.” Meanwhile, a host of insects, such as potato leafhoppers, fall armyworms and corn earworms, migrate into the state each season, which negates the impact of winter weather here on the upcoming season’s potential insect population.

Tighter farm margins this year will put greater emphasis on integrated pest management. Possible issues to watch in 2015 include corn rootworm injury, such as root pruning pictured above at a University of Illinois field trial, and Japanese beetles, such as the one pictured to the left.

There’s a difference between field experts and experts in the field. At FS, we’re experts in the field. Our crop specialists are driven to maximize every acre and bring the latest agronomic technologies and innovations to your farm. Whether recommending the appropriate opriate hybrid or varietyy,, nutrient management m for optimum growth, or advice on disease and pest management, our crop specialists are always focused on pointing your operations forward. So, the only thing you’ll be asking FS is, what’’s next?

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U.S. farmers gain confidence ahead of key USDA reports FarmWeek • Page 8 • Monday, January 12, 2015

BY DANIEL GRANT FarmWeek

Farmers are a little more optimistic about their economic situation than they were last fall, according to the latest DTN/The Progressive Farmer Agriculture Confidence Index (ACI). And that confidence could grow or be interrupted, depending on the outcome of today’s key USDA crop production and ending stocks reports. USDA releases its crop production, grain stocks and winter wheat seedings reports today (Jan. 12) at 11 a.m. “What many people will be looking for are the grain stocks (estimates) to see if demand came back with supply,” said Katie Micik, DTN markets editor and director of the ACI.

Demand continues to be a key driver of the markets as U.S. farmers last fall silenced previous concerns about tight supplies by harvesting the largest corn and soybean crops on record. The size of those crops will be tweaked in the crop production report. Many analysts believe planted acreage estimates could decline. Allendale Inc., prior to the report, projected corn acres will be lowered by 223,000, while soybean plantings could be trimmed by 110,000 acres. AgriVisor projected U.S. corn production could fall 236 million bushels, while USDA also could trim soybean output by 62 million bushels. “The general feeling is that (the final acreage estimates) will come down,” Micik said.

“But we’ll still have large ending stocks.” The price outlook heading into the report was more optimistic than last fall when corn prices plummeted to harvest lows. Farmers’ confidence subsequently climbed on the ACI from 99.8 last fall to 103.4 last week. A value of 100 shows neutrality, so values above 100 indicate optimism, while values below 100 signify pessimism. Last fall’s ACI reading was the first to fall below 100 since the ACI survey began in April 2010, prior to the recent rebound. “I think a lot of that (renewed optimism) is tied to commodity prices right now,” Micik said. “Corn prices last August were tanking. If you look at corn prices now, they

hit a low and bounced back a bit.” Meanwhile, the majority of farmers (69 percent) believe

crop input prices will improve or stay the same this year after major price increases in previous years.

Leadership meeting kicks off new year

About 50 Cass-Morgan Farm Bureau leaders kicked off the new year with a machine shed meeting. President Steve Turner and Young Leader (YL) Chairman Court White updated the group on county and Illinois Farm Bureau activities. Renee Deuth, Illinois Farm Bureau membership and program manager, discussed YL programs and Jenny Jackson, Western Illinois University Collegiate Farm Bureau president, shared information about the college program. With a resurgence in YL membership, county leaders thought it would be beneficial to provide an in-depth look at the organization and what it has to offer. The meeting also created an opportunity for new YL’s to meet with directors to learn about leadership in the county. BY LINDSAY MCQUEEN

Lindsay McQueen serves as Cass-Morgan Farm Bureau manager.

Invasive pests focus of U of I workshops

The University of Illinois will host a series of eight workshops on invasive pests starting in January. The 2015 Illinois First Detector Invasive Pest Workshops will cover landscape and nursery pests, diseases and invasive plants. The sessions will include hands-on activities. In their third year, the workshops are intended to improve first detector training and invasive species awareness. The workshops will cover new topics on current and emerging invasive plants, pathogens and insects. Each session also will address the brown marmorated stink bug, viruses in ornamental plants, and invasive plants and their management as well as a discussion on invasive pest pathways. Continuing Education Units will be available for: Illinois Arborist Association Certified Arborists, Continuing Forestry Education Credits, Master Gardener and Master Naturalist. Workshops will be held at the following locations: • Collinsville, Jan. 29 – 618344-4230. • Wheaton, Feb. 3 – 630584-6166. • DeKalb, Feb. 4 – 815-7588194. • Mount Vernon, Feb. 11 – 618-548-1446. • Charleston, Feb. 12 – 217543-3755. • Macomb, Feb. 18 – 309837-3939. • Moline, Feb. 19 – 309-7569978. • Bloomington, Feb. 26 – 309-663-8306. Those interested in attending should contact the host locations above for registration. A $40 nonrefundable registration fee covers instruction, on-site lunch and training materials. Space is limited.

ROWN — Farm Bureau’s annual meeting will be at 7 p.m. Jan. 21 at the Farm Bureau office. Call the Farm Bureau office at 773-2634 for more information. UREAU — Farm Bureau’s annual meeting and dinner will be at 6 p.m. Jan. 29 at Wise Guys Bar and Grill in Princeton. Robert A. Easter, Ph.D., University of Illinois president, will speak on the outlook of agriculture. Cost is $10. Call the Farm Bureau office at 875-6468 to register. ASS-MORGAN — Farm Bureau will host a farm bill meeting at 6 p.m. Jan. 19 at St. Luke’s Parish Hall in Virginia. Doug Yoder, Illinois Farm Bureau senior director of affiliate and risk management, and Mark Hobrock, Sunrise Ag, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 245-6833 for reservations by Wednesday. • Farm Bureau will host an iPhone class at 6 p.m. Jan. 22 at Prairieland FS in Jacksonville. Tricia Campbell, Heartland Community College, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 245-6833 for reservations by Friday. OOK — Farm Bureau will co-host a two-day beginning beekeeper class from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Jan. 24-25 at the Farm Bureau building. Cost is $75 for Farm Bureau or Cook DuPage Beekeepers Association members and $100 for nonmembers. Call the Farm Bureau office at 708-354-3276 or email membershipdebbie@cookcfb.org to register by Jan. 19. For more information, visit {cookcfb.org/buy-local/pro grams}. UMBERLAND — The Foundation will offer two scholarships for graduating seniors and cur-

rent college students majoring in an ag-related field of study. Call the Farm Bureau office at 849-3031 for an application or more information. Application deadline is March 25. • Farm Bureau will co-host a farm bill session at 7 p.m. Jan. 20 at Toledo American Legion. Doug Yoder, IFB senior director of affiliate and risk management, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 849-3031 for reservations by Jan. 19. ACKSON — Farm Bureau will sponsor a Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation informational dinner meeting at 6 p.m. Jan. 20 at the Southern Illinois Livestock Facility. Laura Lurkins, IFB director of natural and environmental resources, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 684-3129 for reservations. EE — Foundation scholarship applications are available at {leecfb.org} for high school seniors and undergraduate students majoring in an agrelated field of study. Application deadline is Feb. 1. Call the Farm Bureau office at 857-3531 for more information. IVINGSTON — Farm Bureau will host “Continuing the Legacy” with Ron Hanson at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 19 at the Walton Centre in Fairbury. This event is open to anyone interested in passing their farm to the next generation. Email livcfbmgr@ gmail.com for more information. ACON — Farm Bureau scholarships are available to members and their children majoring in an ag-related field of study. Visit {maconcfb.org} for an application by Feb. 15. Call the Farm Bureau office at 8772436 for more information.

Tuesday: • FarmWeek: “The Early Word” • Katie Pratt, USFRA: experience as a Faces of Farming and Ranching spokesperson • Nancy Kavazanjian, USFRA: a look ahead in her new role • Rita Frazer, RFDRN Radio Network: reporting live from the American Farm Bureau Federation annual meeting • Freese-Notis Weather Wednesday: • Dan Long and Jim Muschinske, Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability: state sales tax and budget pro-

jections • Mark Schleusener, Illinois Department of Agriculture: honeybees and horticulture surveys Thursday: • Chad Boore, St. Joseph Hospital; Dr. William McDade, Illinois State Medical Society: rising cost of health care • Phil Thornton, Illinois Corn Marketing Board: Illinois grain rescue tube locator Friday: • Nic Anderson, Illinois Livestock Development Group; Keith Mussman, Kankakee County Farm Bureau and egg producer: cost of mandating animal care • Eric Swanson, COUNTRY Financial: farm bill

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Page 9 • Monday, January 12, 2015 • FarmWeek

ERCER — Farm Bureau will host a market outlook meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Farm Bureau office. Dale Durchholz, AgriVisor senior market analyst, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 309-582-5116 for more information. ONROE — Farm Bureau will co-host a farm bill session at 1 p.m. Jan. 21 at the Monroe County Annex. Stu Ellis, University of Illinois Extension, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 939-6197 for reservations by Jan. 19. ONTGOMERY — Prime Timers will host a luncheon meeting at noon Jan. 21 at the Farm Bureau office. Matt Stolte, Farm Bureau Young Leader, will speak about the North Carolina Young Leader’s Ag Industry tour. Members 55 years and older are invited to attend. Cost is $9. Call the Farm Bureau office at 5326171 for reservations by Friday. • Farm Bureau will host a spray test review from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Feb. 2 at the Farm Bureau office. Gary Letterly,

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University of Illinois Extension, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 5326171 for reservations. ERRY — Farm Bureau will host a market outlook luncheon at noon Jan. 22 at the Farm Bureau office. Dale Durchholz, AgriVisor senior market analyst, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 357-9355 for reservations by Jan. 19. T. CLAIR — Farm Bureau’s annual meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 23 at Albert’s Restaurant in Belleville. Cost is $10. Call the Farm Bureau office at 2336800 for reservations by Jan. 19. ASHINGTON — Farm Bureau will co-host a market outlook breakfast meeting at 8 a.m. Jan. 22 at Little Nashville Restaurant. Dale Durchholz, AgriVisor senior market analyst, and COUNTRY Financial representatives will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 327-3081 for reservations by Jan. 19. • Farm Bureau’s annual meeting and dinner will be at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 29 at the

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Nashville Community Center. Chris Egelston, magician/comedian, will perform. Cost is $5. Call the Farm Bureau office at 3273081 for reservations by Jan. 19. • Farm Bureau will cohost farm bill meetings at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 21 and 7 p.m. Jan. 22 at the Farm Bureau office. Call the Washington County Farm Service Agency at 327-8862, ext. 2, for reservations by Jan. 19. AYNE — Farm Bureau will host a market update luncheon at noon Jan. 21 at Frontier Community Center Foundation Hall in Fairfield. Dale Durchholz, AgriVisor senior market analyst, will speak. Call the Farm Bureau office at 842-3342 to register by Friday. HITE — Farm Bureau will host a market update luncheon at noon Jan. 21 at Frontier Community Center Foundation Hall in Fairfield. Dale Durchholz, AgriVisor senior market analyst, will speak. Call the Wayne County Farm Bureau office at 842-3342 to register by Friday.

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FarmWeek • Page 10 • Monday, January 12, 2015

Caution: Handle gasoline with care around farm

We get so used to handling gasoline that it is easy to forget how dangerous and damaging it can be. With a flash point of negative 45 degrees Fahrenheit (meaning enough vapor is emitted to ignite at any temperature above negative 45 F), gasoline can quickly cause devBY KEVIN FRYE

astating damage and injury. Given all the combustible materials found around the farm (hay, wood piles, structures, dry weeds, etc.), it does not take much for a small spark to ignite a significant loss. Those plastic storage containers purchased at department stores are not ideal to store and transport gasoline. Safety cans

Class III milk prices plummet The Class III price for milk adjusted to 3.5 percent butterfat for the month of December was announced at $17.82 per hundredweight. This represents a drop of $4.12 from the previous month’s announcement and a $6.78 drop since setting the alltime high just a few months ago in September. Dairymen continue to grow their herds, even in the face of record cow culling. Prices for dairy beef have been too good to pass up. These increased milking cow numbers (resulting in more milk production), and softening world exports and lackluster domestic demand have weighed on prices.

made of heavy-gauge metal and equipped with self-closing lids are best. These lids serve as a pressure-relief valve that will “burp” when inside pressure reaches 3 to 5 pounds per square inch. These containers should also have a flame arrestor at the spout, which Kevin Frye greatly reduces the chance of a spark causing a fire or explosion. Even when in proper containers, fuel needs to be stored away from ignition sources. This includes bench grinders, welding and torch cutting, electric motors, machinery, and electrical panels and junction boxes. These containers should

also be away from combustible materials such as paper products, wood, grease, oil products and compressed cylinders. The storage area should be well ventilated to discourage the accumulation of vapors. Store empty containers the same as full, since they also can produce flammable vapors. Aboveground fuel storage tanks also need to be located away from combustible materials and ignition sources. Ideally, they should be at least 30 feet away from building structures and kept clear of high weeds and debris, but the local jurisdiction may have specific distance requirements. Tanks should be mounted on a firm, level surface, especially the elevated gravity discharge tanks. Barriers should be installed around the tanks to prevent vehicles from contact-

ing and causing product release. Tanks need to be labeled to indicate “gasoline” or “diesel fuel” so contents are not mistaken by others, such as emergency responders. They should be labeled with “FLAMMABLE – KEEP FIRE AND FLAME AWAY” and be well maintained to minimize corrosion. To state the obvious, smoking must never be allowed near the storage tanks, and vehicles should be shut off while filling. Verify fire extinguishers are in good working condition and located within 75 feet of fuel tanks. If you are looking for a good winter project, start with how you handle your gasoline. It very well may prevent future complications. Kevin Frye serves as GROWMARK’s safety services manager. His email address is kfrye@growmark.com.

Meet the Buyers event set for Feb. 3

Farmers can meet local and regional food buyers at the upcoming Meet the Buyers event from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Feb. 3 at the Orland Park Civic Center. “This will be our 19th Meet the Buyers event, and we expect it to be one of our largest,” said Cynthia Haskins, Illinois Farm Bureau manager of business development and compliance. “Farmers will hear from several buyers and meet with the buyers one-on-one so they can begin building working relationships.” Meet the Buyers events provide an opportunity for farmers to hear directly from buyers about what it takes to do business with their organization. Buyers represent retail grocery stores and

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Feeder pig prices reported to USDA*

chains, foodservice distributors and wholesalers. “This event will include buyers who are looking for local fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, artisan cheeses, dairy, value-added products and more,” said Bob Rohrer, Cook County Farm Bureau manager. Event sponsors include Cook County Farm Bureau, Illinois Department of Agriculture, Illinois Farm Bureau, Illinois Specialty Growers Association, and several surrounding Farm Bureau and University of Illinois Extension offices. Farmers may bring business cards and any handouts they have about their farming operation to share with buyers. Those wishing to attend the free event should contact Cook County Farm Bureau at 708-354-3276 by Jan. 27.

Total Composite Weighted Average Receipts and Price (Formula and Cash): Weight Range Per Head Weighted Ave. Price 10-12 lbs. (formula) $37.50-$58.66 $48.43 40 lbs. (cash) $71.00-$92.00 $84.76 Receipts

This Week 80,767 *Eastern Corn Belt prices picked up at seller’s farm

Last Week 69,834

Eastern Corn Belt direct hogs (plant delivered) Carcass Live

(Prices $ per hundredweight) This week Prev. week Change $72.72 $72.74 -$0.02 $53.81 $53.83 -$0.02

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

Steers Heifers

This week $168.00 $168.00

Lynn Rohrscheib, 2014 Yield Challenge100-Bushel Challenge Participant

Prev. week Change $166.60 $1.40 $162.19 $5.81

Lamb prices Negotiated, wooled and shorn, 137-157 lbs. for 144.38-173.62 $/cwt. (wtd. ave. 159.04)

Export inspections (Million bushels) Week ending Soybeans Wheat Corn 1/1/2015 51.7 13.0 21.2 12/25/2014 55.2 8.9 24.0 Last year 58.8 13.6 19.3 Season total 1131.8 510.4 478.2 Previous season total 924.9 743.0 472.9 USDA projected total 1760 925 1750 Crop marketing year began June 1 for wheat and Sept. 1 for corn and soybeans.

Joe Klein, 2014 Yield Challenge 100-Bushel Challenge Participant

BECOME A SOYBEAN MASTER

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 $235.22 $217.95 $17.27

Dan Arkels, LaSalle County farmer and 2014 Yield Challenge 100-Bushel Challenge Winner

Proven Proven Yield-Busting Yield-Busting Advances Advances

Valuable V aluable T Take-Home Tak ake -Home Techniques Techniques

No matt matter er what par partt of IIllinois llinois yyou ou far farm m in or the soil you you ha ve tto ow ork with... the bar for for so have work soybean ybean yields is being reset. reset. IIn n 2014, farmers farmers acr oss the stat across statee pr proved oved larger larger yields are are possible Arkels har vested a record-breaking record-breaking 103.95 possible.. Dan Arkels harvested acree on his ISA Soybean bushels per acr Soybean Yield Yield Challenge test test plot in LaSalle County. County.

KKey ey industry industr y experts experts will show show you you how how to to tap the ential of your your soybeans. soybeans. Topics Topics include: hidden pot potential

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Corn Strategy

ü2013 crop: The longterm outlook remains constructive, but don’t expect the market to reach long-term upside targets until spring at the earliest. Long-term storage should pay dividends. ü2014 crop: Last week’s performance indicates the short-term trend may have turned down. Prices should chop sideways to lower into a mid-February low unless there’s a big surprise in today’s USDA report. Use any bounce to make needed sales. Hedgeto-arrive contracts against May futures may be the best strategy to take advantage of the futures carry. vFundamentals: USDA’s report today will be the dominant influence on prices the next couple of months. Subsequent to that, there tends to be little major news to focus on until the Feb. 19 USDA Outlook Forum and the March 31 Grain Stocks and Prospective Planting reports. Other than those, key price influences will likely come from energy, currency and equity markets.

Page 11 • Monday, January 12, 2015 • FarmWeek Cents per bu.

Soybean Strategy

Soybean exports remain robust

Soybeans continue to be the “star” in the grain export picture, but that’s not to say there are looming difficulties for the other two grains. The latest inspection data indicates soybean exports are 200 million bushels ahead of this time last year, a record

export year in itself. The pace is slowing, but is still strong enough to indicate USDA will be forced to increase its forecast for this year. Corn shipments are still lagging, but sales are picking up and are now slightly ahead of the expected pace. Like last year, we expect shipments to again be “back end loaded.” And even though wheat sales and shipments are softer this year, both continue to accumulate at a level that fits with the current USDA forecast.

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ü2014 crop: Demand for soybeans has moderated, but consumption continues at a historically strong pace. But for the next two to four months, South American weather will be key. If it remains good, prices will likely erode. But if it deteriorates, prices would move to new highs. That’s why we are willing to maintain some old-crop ownership. 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: Beyond today’s USDA reports, South American weather will be the most important market influence until March. Although far from perfect, weather has been relatively good in both Brazil and Argentina. Early harvest reports in Brazil have been mixed, but it won’t be until late month that harvest will become consistently active. Political issues and logistics also cloud the speed with which South American

supplies might enter the world pipeline.

Wheat Strategy

ü2014 crop: Old-crop sales are 75 percent complete. Refrain from making new sales until the dust settles. ü2015 crop: New-crop wheat should be 25 percent priced. Wait to make catch-up sales if you are not sold up to the recommended level. vFundamentals: Wheat futures continue lower after having turned down from key technical levels in midDecember. The export market was active last week, but the U.S. failed to bring in much

business. Weekly exports were disappointing again at only 5.5 million bushels. Weak exports will continue to weigh on prices, especially if the dollar continues higher. Cold temperatures across the wheat belt are stoking worries about winterkill, providing some support. Condition ratings for the winter crop in Illinois dropped sharply to 24 percent good or excellent. For now, winterkill concerns have faded for Russia. The market will have more to go on now with traders having the first U.S. winter wheat seeding estimate.

FarmWeek • Page 12 • Monday, January 12, 2015

Ag youth programs grow the next generation of leaders They are eager to learn and getting ready to lead. They are the members of the National FFA Organization. Fewer and fewer are from farms, but their ranks are growing — a lot. Millennials are often generations removed from any direct connection to farming. Yet, record numbers of young people are putting on iconic, blue corduroy FFA jackROBERT ets as the GIBLIN organization has become a pipeline for highly attractive careers. Membership in FFA reached 610,240 in 2014 — that’s an increase of 30,000 in just two years. (Illinois FFA membership totaled 17,529 in 2013-14). While the United States lost more than 100,000 farms between 2007 and 2012, FFA grew by 60,000 members. Increasingly, the organization is drawing membership from nonfarm and urban youth. This growth outpaces other youth organizations, including the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. FFA has grown by more than 200,000 since membership took a nosedive in the 1980s when the number of U.S. farms

also declined dramatically. That low point pushed the organization into survival mode. In 1988, FFA changed its name to reflect the increasing diversity of agricultural careers: Future Farmers of America became the National FFA Organization. Since that time, FFA has expanded beyond “cows, sows and plows” to help those ages 12 to 21 explore and prepare themselves for more than 300 agricultural careers. FFA leadership opportunities and agricultural skills testing are now integral to a wellrounded, modern agricultural education program. One of the greatest needs in modern agriculture is cultivating future leaders who can navigate the complexities of farm management, business, and food and agricultural policy. FFA has become widely recognized throughout the agriculture and food industries, and by youth, for its comprehensive leadership training programs. FFA is not alone in increasing relevance for the next generation of agricultural leaders. The 4-H program has become the largest youth organization in the United States with 6.3 million members. More than half (57 percent) come from large urban

efforts are being made to bring interested in agricultural, food areas, inner cities and suband life sciences. agriculture into the classroom; urbs. U.S. farm incomes reached The 4-H program scope has ag-related youth organizations are dying; and rural people lack record levels in recent years, expanded as well, from focusstimulating growth in other the leadership skills to deal ing on agricultural and homeagribusiness products. As a making skills for rural result, agribusiness and othyouth to cultivating leaderers involved in life sciences ship, developing career have been recruiting heavily skills, maintaining global from colleges and universicompetitiveness, and proties. With a brighter job outmoting civic involvement look, undergraduate enrolland a healthy society. ment in agricultural programs A recent Tufts Universiincreased 20 percent from ty study concluded that 42006 to 2011, up to 146,000 H members are four times students. Most colleges and more likely than the rest of universities report that this their peers to contribute to growth is continuing. their communities during The need to potentially grades 7-12; twice as likely triple food production to to be civically active in feed 9 billion people by grades 8-12; and twice as 2050, while using less land, likely to participate in sciimproving sustainability and ence, engineering and comreducing environmental puter technology programs impact, will require keen during nonschool hours in management skills, advanced grades 10-12. science and technology, and By their senior year, 4-H the ability to navigate policy girls are three times as likely to take part in extracur- Illinois FFA President Cody Morris addresses issues. Addressing these needs ricular science programs. the Illinois Farm Bureau annual meeting. will require more than classTrends in FFA and 4-H room education. It requires dispel many myths about career with complex issues. While the number of farms leadership. FFA and 4-H are and education opportunities building a new corps of young is decreasing in the United and youth interest in agriculStates and fewer young people leaders in agriculture by the ture. These myths include the thousands. are likely to return to their notion that rural children will family farms or actively engage not pursue higher education, in production agriculture, oth- Robert Giblin writes, speaks and except for vocational training; er trends continue to point to agricultural career opportuniconsults about agricultural and food ties are limited for all youth; no a bright outlook for youth industry issues, policies and trends.

Relations with Cuba at last Wool grown, sewn in the United States

We received an unexpected gift from President Obama, announcing that he intends to establish diplomatic relations, expand trade and travel with Cuba. That is a positive step for the U.S. and the Cuban people. The Cuban people are euphoric. It is a wish come true. I have been to Cuba with agricultural groups twice in the last 10 years. President Obama’s action opens the door to an expanded agricultural market. JOHN BLOCK Although President Bush made a modest move to allow food and medical sales to Cuba, the agreement required that they pay cash in advance, and this made trade more difficult. Opening the door to all private business is what we need to do. Maybe we can sell them some John Deere tractors. When I returned from Cuba in 2009, I reported these thoughts. “Cuba is an island country of 11 million people only 90 miles from Florida. They are warm, friendly and educated. Their citizens are healthy, but their dogs and cows are skinny. They import 80 percent of their food. Normal relations with the U.S. could be the first step toward a better life for

them, but until they embrace the principles of capitalism like China and VietNam, it won’t happen.” Fifty years ago, Fidel Castro took over Cuba and confiscated everything — homes, farms, businesses. It’s a long road back. For all of those 50 years, we have tried to isolate Communist Cuba while the rest of the world has had normal diplomatic relations with the country. After trying to change a country for 50 years by isolating them, and it has not worked, maybe it’s time to try something different. I compliment President Obama for his courage to try something different. President Nixon opened China. We have full diplomatic relations with Vietnam after fighting a war with that communist country. The transformation of Cuba will not be as simple as it sounds. President Obama can’t do it alone. Congress needs to pass legislation to completely end the embargo. And Congress is not unanimous in support of that idea. Anyway, I’m happy we have taken the first step.

John Block, former U.S. agriculture secretary from Gilson in Knox County, serves as a senior policy adviser with Olsson, Frank, Weeda and Terman of Washington, D.C.

Consumer preference in the U.S. continues to grow for local foods. Defining local foods is a little elusive, but the key concept seems to be a desire to bring farmers and consumers closer together. In the process, the importance of food manufacturers, shippers and retailers is reduced. I addressed this concept five years ago when I mentioned the disinterest of major food processors, such as Bear Naked Cereal, to interact with consumers. In contrast, Kewaneebased Country Morning Coffee says on its website, “We love to hear from you.” Consumer interest in local foods occurs for a variety of WILLIAM BAILEY reasons. With the growth of imported foods and increased processing of a broad range of foods, consumers are looking for something they can trust, see as healthy and believe is safe. And, as a result, there has been growth in the number of consumers buying items produced — if not locally — at least in the U.S. The idea is spreading from food to other agricultural products. Recently, the Wall Street Journal published an article about a U.S. company that makes and sells wool sweaters. The company’s point of difference from other sweater manufacturers is the entire production process is conducted in the U.S. Such an approach is not exactly local food, but the concept is similar. Construct the process so that everything is done in the USA, emphasizing that the product is the result of the efforts of a single company, working closely with sheep farmers. The key business proposition of another

wool clothing company is: Creation of a premium clothing line in which everything sold is grown and sewn in the U.S., using ethical and sustainable practices. The increased interest in local foods has formed what appears to be a very firm foundation for products that are designed to feature their American heritage. For businesses looking to make wool clothing that is ‘grown and sewn’ in the U.S., the initial challenge is to find a source for wool. The size of the U.S. sheep herd has shrunk to half the size it was only 20 years ago and is 10 percent of what it was during World War II. In Illinois, 75 percent fewer sheep existed on farms in 2012 compared to 1982. Chalk the decline up to changing consumer preferences, changes in clothing and, most importantly, to imports from other countries, mainly New Zealand and Australia. Might demand for domestically produced wool reverse the production slide? The domestic growth in demand for U.S. agricultural products reflects a consumer base that sees those products produced in a way that addresses global climate change, minimizes depletion of natural resources in addition to being fresher and more sustainably grown than imported products. It is not clear if this is a fundamental change in U.S. consumer preferences when imported agricultural products are spurned for U.S. production. But something seems to be changing in the psyche of the American consumer, including the demand for local food — and sweaters.

William Bailey teaches agricultural economics at Western Illinois University’s School of Agriculture.